If you've been a blogging member for a while, you can read and "hear" the voices come through. You can recognize the writing pretty much as you can identify a person when you hear them speak. We each have a style, and there are just as many styles as writers.  Some open up their personalities and allow you to get to know them personally and professionally. Others keep it hardcore business only. If not about RE, it's not relevant. Others share and combine their blogging with many topics, including family milestones, accomplishments, travel, and success with listings, buyers, and interesting settlements. There is no set rule as to when, how often, or what you choose to post. It's yours and yours alone.   My topics range from how I can expose my unique listings to the broadest audience to ... 12/02/2021

 There is so much to say about appreciation and how it makes my world go around.How much can one be thankful for? The answer is unlimited. Every day is a time to feel gratitude; look around to see who gets me through the days, weeks, months, and years, so I don't do it alone. Too many to count, but here is a partial list: my photographer, webmaster, computer tech,  marketing, bookkeeper, attorney, accountant, mechanic, hairstylist, and radio producer.  And others, like appraisers, contractors, inspectors, medical professionals, and other personal services, keep my business running and my life better.There are so many contacts throughout the year.  Many of the people  I never meet, see or touch, including the readers and commenters on my blog, along with the internet callers, emailers, t... 11/24/2021

 When purchasing a home, make sure you know what you are buying. What stays and what does not? Convey within the body of the contract because you don't want to hear these words: "But I thought  (fill in the blank)  was part of the purchase." Our Maryland contract is pretty specific about appliances, window coverings, attached fixtures, built-ins, carpeting, fireplace screens, and garage remotes.  What about the porch and pool items? Playground equipment, trampoline, grills, firewood, even artwork. What about the bathroom mirrors...if not attached.And if you want it...then write it in! Be specific if you want an item, and also be clear if there is an item you don't want. Do you want the extra matching paint,  wallpaper, and carpet? Some think this is a bonus to the buyer, so they have su... 11/08/2021

 To bite off more than one can chew means to take on more than one can deal with; to attempt to do something that one is not capable of accomplishing, or not to take too much work or responsibility. (The idiom originated in America during the late nineteenth century when a man offered another man a bite of his plug of chewing tobacco and 'don't bite off more than you can chew' would remind the receiver not to be greedy.  Daily, it seems I hear someone saying they are too busy to follow up or return a call or answer a text. Too busy to cancel an appointment or to meet for a second showing.  Why are they "too busy?" Maybe, in this market,  they are trying to handle more than is possible. They don't make enough time to attend appraisals, inspections, and sometimes even showings. They don't... 10/22/2021

A caller this week was quite upset that a house in their neighborhood was priced about $100,000 below the market and, of course, sold in minutes with multiple offers. They demanded to know why!   Here is a list of reasons for a lower listing price which will almost guarantee a fast sale.Remember agents train to list as low as possible to get that fast sale and move on to the next transaction. But why would a seller want or need such a fast sell?       needs immediate cash      moving to assisted/long term care-the house is empty     needs a larger home (boomerang kids etc.)     pandemic-need to care for the family out of town     wants to travel-not deal with the care and feeding of a house     loss of employment…cannot afford to stay in the family home     new employment increase salar... 10/17/2021

 I have been receiving quite a few calls from people who want to rent. And some are ready to settle for a room, an apartment, a condo, a townhouse,  a small single-family house, or a large mansion.  Also had a caller who needed a six-month rental due to storm damage on his present place. The immediate need is necessary for these people.There are limited choices for those who cannot purchase, or maybe they have been priced out of the market. I also have many calls from investors wanting properties in any condition to "flip." Think about rental opportunities. There is a housing shortage. There is a real need. So-Have you thought about purchasing homes, living in part, renting out part, or just renting the house for income? I have a large old home used as an Airbnb, and it is easy to keep ... 10/16/2021

 Baltimore county home with first-floor bedrooms and so much more! The most sought-after homes are those single-family stand-alone properties that allow you accessibility, a garage, bedrooms on the main level, and space for entertaining friends and family. They are homes that have first-floor owner suites, main-level laundry, absence of steps, and plenty of rooms for home offices, hobbies, media rooms, and still space for visiting family and grandchildren.    7940 Stevenson RoadBaltimore County in 21208 fits the bill. Click to see more photosI think of this versatile style as a forever home, perfect for aging in place, couples, singles, and sharing with roommates. Maybe your family is growing, or the need for separate living areas for blended families; this property could be an ideal mu... 10/09/2021