"The ActiveRain community and real estate industry as a whole will only be respected to the degree of character represented by the actions of its professionals. Do not conduct yourself in a way that disgraces your fellow members on this network." - Active Rain Community GuidelinesCan you imagine a world without the many hues of color?Inspiration is often found in colors that surround us...The vibrancy of a majestic red cardinal, or the breathtaking bold blue sky, or the exuberance of a bright orange peel of a clementine.Color has a way of waking us up and inviting us into the festivities of being alive.To me, one of my favorite aspects of the Active Rain community is the wonder and awe of enjoying the many stories, perspectives, and marketing concepts that are presented by the many mem... 01/14/2019

The Yellow Breeches Creek that meanders through the south side of Carlisle, PA is one of my favorite spots, especially on a bright, sunny day.   Today while driving past, I could feel the tug, like a magnetic pull upon my heart inviting me to stop and pause for a moment or two to enjoy the view.  I never cease to be amazed at the peace and tranquility that is splashed upon my soul as I visit with nature under the gaze of the blue eyes of the sky.I am hoping that this photo offers you a glimpse into a sacred space where for a moment, or two, everything is still except for the movement of the water dancing in unrehearsed rhythm.   01/11/2019

June 2016 I was sitting in a meeting when someone mentioned a real estate blogging forum called 'Active Rain.'  I remember questioning if I had even heard the name correctly.  Seriously, what does 'Active Rain' mean, and how does it relate to real estate?Fast forward to January 2019 - and yes, it's still called Active Rain. Although to some of us, we affectionately simply refer to it as - 'the Rain.'  To those of us that have ever pushed a seed into the ground and awaited a sprout, we understand that a seed needs a few things before erupting through the soil.  According to easyscienceforkids.com, since I prefer not to over-complicate things, "there are many things needed for growth of a plant such as water, air, nutrient, light, temperature, time and space."Being a real estate agent req... 01/10/2019

June 2016 I was sitting in a meeting when someone mentioned a real estate blogging forum called 'Active Rain.'  I remember questioning if I had even heard the name correctly.  Seriously, what does 'Active Rain' mean, and how does it relate to real estate?Fast forward to January 2019 - and yes, it's still called Active Rain.  Although to some of us, we affectionately simply refer to it as - 'the Rain.'  To those of us that have ever pushed a seed into the ground and awaited a sprout, we understand that a seed needs a few things before erupting through the soil.  According to easyscienceforkids.com, since I prefer not to over-complicate things, "there are many things needed for growth of a plant such as water, air, nutrient, light, temperature, time and space."Being a real estate agent re... 01/10/2019

My story begins with a text message I received at 9:23PM on Friday, July 6, 2018.  I was the listing agent and a buyer's agent had scheduled a showing appointment for 12:30 the next day to show my listing and since she was traveling some distance to show her clients the home, she did not have Supra access which is the lockbox that I use for all my listings.  Her text message to me was to explain her dilemma, and to ask if I would be able to assist with accommodating the showing.  Her message ended with "Can you please help?"Since it is my belief that when I take a listing, I must do whatever is reasonable to accommodate a showing for a ready, willing, and able buyer, I immediately responded and we set up a plan for her to gain access to the home for her next day showing appointment.  Fo... 01/02/2019

This morning's temperature was 35 degrees in Carlisle, PA.  After enjoying way too many delicious indulgences over the past few days, I decided to go out for a brisk morning walk.  One of my favorite aspects of living in Central PA is that I can step outside my door and be surrounded by the magnificent views of the  mountains, open fields, wildlife, and the Yellow Breeches Creek.   The beauty and tranquility of PA are like a wonderful gift that keeps on giving.  I paused beside the Yellow Breeches Creek to snap this photo and to listen to the sound of the rush of water over the rocks and the chirping of birds overhead.  These are the precious and priceless moments that bring forth my tremendous gratitude and utmost appreciation. www.mariasapio.com  12/27/2018

As I approach the turning of the last page on the 2018 calendar, I pause to reflect upon this past year.  My mind recalls special memories of meeting new clients for the very first time and even the death of a dear client.   Life is a tapestry of smiles and tears that add profound dimension to the multitude of threads of many colors that weave through our moments.  Some of the memories that drift across my heart are:   - A particular settlement where a tear or two were shed as keys were exchanged and I was the only person in the room that understood the depth of that occurrence. - A handcrafted framed art piece that was gifted to me by a client whom I was privileged to walk beside as she and her family navigated through a challenging season before owning their new home.- A day at the sp... 12/14/2018

Once Upon A Time two buyers and a Realtor® scheduled a marathon of one day showing appointments.  They navigated through traffic and even one home with a swamp in the yard - and finally, they found the house that was the 'right one.'After a full day, and a few cups of coffee, the Realtor® wrote the offer that night on behalf of the buyers and it was accepted by the sellers the next day!!  A few weeks later was settlement day.  The mood was lighthearted and you could feel the exuberance in the air as papers were signed and then the magical moment when the keys crossed the table from the seller's hands into the buyer's hands!!  What a celebration !!   "Congratulations" were exchanged and excitement filled the air.  Of course,  photos were taken with both buyers and Realtor® since this spe... 12/11/2018

I rarely participate in these types of things, but in honor of Kathy Streib and in the spirit of holiday giving, I will do so...Age: 50 !!Best Trait: ListeningBiggest fear: SpidersFavorite time of the year: Spring/Summer Favorite drink: CoffeeEarly bird or night owl? Depends - I enjoy both (under the right circumstances)Favorite song: The Greatest Love of All (Whitney Houston) and Wind Beneath My Wings (Bette Midler) Ghosts, are they real? ProbablyHometown: Born and raised on Long Island, NY. I've lived in Carlisle, PA for the past 18 years.In love with: MomentsFavorite Holiday Song: 'Mary Did You Know?' and 'Grown Up Christmas List' Favorite Movie: Pride and Prejudice and Bridges of Madison CountyLast time you felt happy: Happiness is always in me - My thoughts can always take me there... 12/11/2018

"Attitude is a choice                                                     Happiness is a choice  Optimism is a choice  Kindness is a choice  Giving is a choice  Respect is a choice  Whatever choice you make,    makes you.  Choose wisely."- Roy T. Bennett The holiday season is traditionally viewed as a time brimming with gifts, treats and thoughtful gestures. Yet for some, it may be a season riddled with financial difficulties.  Do you have some pots and pans that you never use? Or dishes, mugs or silverware in good condition?Perhaps some blankets that have been stored away?  Comforters?  Bed sheets? Towels?Coats in the front closet? Hats? Gloves?  Scarves?  Shoes in great condition that are just taking up space on a shoe rack?  Trinkets or knickknacks that don't quite fit your decoratin... 12/03/2018

“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” ― Brené BrownWe have all heard the phrase "you are what you eat" -However, have you considered: "you are what you watch, listen to, and invite into your space."The other night I was sitting beside a crackling fire, I was sipping raspberry tea and enjoying some background holiday tunes, covered by an extra soft blanket. It was a fairly perfect moment and suddenly a family member walked in and asked if they could put on the TV.  "Sure, I responded."  Suddenly before my eyes I was immersed into a prison scene.  The music was suspenseful, the lighting was dim and one inmate was bullying another one.  Immediately my stomach tightened. Within seconds, I could sense that a fight would probably break out and I blurted out, "can you... 12/01/2018

In the aftermath of a loved ones passing, deciding to sell their home is often a decision that holds a multitude of emotions.  Perhaps this is the home where you grew up. Maybe your parents have lived in this home for most of their married life and the thought of sorting through it can feel overwhelming.  I understand. I too have walked this pathway when my mom passed away in 2016, so my words are deep with empathy. I have also had the privilege of being invited into this season with several clients that are walking through this chapter and it is my heartfelt intention to help guide the way with the utmost compassion and dignity.  Depending upon the circumstances, I might recommend having a gathering at the home so extended family and close friends can have the opportunity to join with ... 11/30/2018

In August of 2016 my mom passed away. While my siblings and I were sorting through her home, we found this loaf of bread in her freezer that she had baked. I’ll never, ever forget us gathering around my mother’s table to eat breakfast and share this last loaf of her homemade bread. I can still taste the moment and it was one of the most profoundly sacred events of my life. Today, as I reflect upon Thanksgiving, I am reminded once again of the abstract aspects of gratitude that cannot be contained by mere words. Sending love to each of you, as you personally embrace and define what Thanksgiving means to you. 11/21/2018

Yesterday the news was stacked with numerous cancellations around the Carlisle, PA area.  The roads were hazardous and sadly, numerous accidents were also being reported.I spoke to some clients yesterday on the phone and although some were at work, one client shared that he and his family were sitting around the fireplace enjoying moments of laughter, conversation and cookies.  Snow days can be viewed as a huge inconvenience or perhaps they can be viewed as a brief welcomed interruption of our frenzy to offer us a day to just contemplate, and enjoy the magnificence of the view.  I did go out to shovel twice yesterday and actually enjoyed the invigorating movement coupled with the brisk air. Last night, my fireplace was aglow as I snuggled on my couch and relaxed. This morning I stepped ... 11/16/2018

137 Strayer Drive Carlisle, PA 17013 SOLD By: Maria Sapio, Realtor® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeSale Realty Carlisle, PA.Join me in congratulating both seller and buyer!*First floor master bedroom with en suite bath plus an additional first floor bedroom and an upstairs loft space with full bah that could be used as a 3rd bedroom*Total - 3 full baths*Gourmet eat-in kitchen completed in 2013 featuring granite counter-tops, stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile flooring and sky light*Vaulted ceilings in kitchen and living room *Library with built in bookshelves and custom built in desk area with granite top and a wall of windows offering an abundance of natural light*First floor laundry room with utility sink and extra closet space *2 Car Garage*Homeowners Association  The most common ... 11/09/2018

You made the decision to list your home for sale.  You contacted an agent and you expected that in a fair amount of time the ‘For Sale’ sign on your front lawn would be switched out for a ‘SOLD’ sign and, for some reason, that didn’t happen. You are probably feeling a variety of emotions ranging from anger, frustration, disappointment, and everything in-between.  After all, it is understandable.  Yet the question looms in your mind...Why didn't my home sell?Let’s examine some of the most common reasons:Trust:Did you feel that your agent had your best interest at heart?  Did he/she offer you a comprehensive market analysis, examining other homes in your local geographic zone that have recently sold?  Did your agent listen to your questions and concerns? Did you feel like just ‘another li... 11/08/2018

15 Carter Place Carlisle, PA 17013Listed By: Maria Sapio, Berkshire Hathaway HomeSale Realty in Carlisle, PA and Under Contract in 3 Days!!Welcome to newly landscaped Halcyon Hill.Conveniently located close to I-81, restaurants, shopping and hospital.This townhouse is bright and spacious boasting a newly updated kitchen including new quartz countertop, new backsplash, new sink, new stainless steel appliances and exterior access to deck.Newly updated first floor powder room.Two large bedrooms on the second floor, each with full bath.Finished basement with built-ins for additional storage.New heat pump installed June of 2018. Relax and let the HOA handle the snow removal, lawn and landscape care and outside maintenance.Listed Price: $133,900  10/21/2018

New Listing: 15 Carter Place Carlisle, PA 17013Welcome to newly landscaped Halcyon Hill.Conveniently located close to I-81, restaurants, shopping and hospital. This townhouse is bright and spacious boasting a newly updated kitchen including new quartz countertop, new backsplash, new sink, new stainless steel appliances and exterior access to deck. Newly updated first floor powder room. Two large bedrooms on the second floor, each with full bath. Finished basement with built-ins for additional storage. New heat pump installed June of 2018. Newly installed entryway flooring. Carpets just cleaned and living room just repainted. Relax and let the HOA handle the snow removal, lawn and landscape care and outside maintenance.$133,900.For a private showing appointment or for further information... 10/17/2018

It can be a daunting task to choose an agent to sell your home.  Perhaps a friend of a friend is a real estate agent so maybe that's a consideration? Is the agent that advertises on the huge billboard in the center of town is a good choice? Why not call the agent with the fun logo?The bottom line is that we all have different criteria for evaluating what's important to us and why we ultimately decide to choose one agent instead of another agent to represent us.When considering an agent, here are some key factors you may wish to consider:- Responsiveness:  Did the agent respond to your phone call or email in a timely manner?  - Professionalism:  First impressions do matter.  Did you feel that the agent was organized and well prepared for your meeting? Were they on time?  If not, did they... 10/09/2018

Determining a listing price for a home is a process that requires time, the resources (to pull the pertinent data), and the understanding of what data is relevant (to compare and contrast).1.)  When I am providing my professional services to guide a seller through this process, first, and foremost, I will visit the subject property.  The purpose of the visit is to meet with the seller at the home and clearly explain all the factors that go into determining a listing price range for a property as well as to discuss the features that are compelling about this particular home.  Sometimes the seller has no prior knowledge of the details of the property (ex: estate sale) but if the seller was also the homeowner, I love to hear more about the home directly from them.  2.)  During my visit to ... 10/05/2018