Special offer

Pikesville, MD Real Estate News

By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Twelve observations related to real estate.Similar to flying, it is not unusual to encounter a few bumps when buying and selling. This real estate turbulence happens anytime between signing up with a listing agent and the final settlement day.   I read a list of items that a pilot won't always tell you, and this triggered a list of things that agents may not want you to know about the real estate transaction.        I have encountered all of them and want to share my observations. Each could be a book chapter or a stand-alone blog post. 1. Houses sell houses, and people foul up deals.2. Avoid settlements early in the morning on Mondays or late  Fridays.3. Don't turn the keys over until the settlement is funded.4. Don't let a seller know a contract is coming in... Always wait until the o...
Comments 25
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 A few years back, a lovely young family hired me to help them sell their house. They were looking for a bigger space for their new baby and a better school district and wanted my assistance. After completing all the necessary paperwork and agreeing on a listing price, we took photos of the property and made a list of required repairs and updates. Unfortunately, there were some deferred maintenance issues that we had to deal with before selling the property.When I called to check on their progress, I was pleasantly surprised that they had almost completed everything on our checklist. They had done a lot of purging to prepare for their next move, evident in the sparkling clean house. I stopped by for a visit and was amazed at how different the house looked.What happened next was somethin...
Comments 12
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
  Take a look at this week's properties surrounded by  Fall leaves.By the way, I think the best time to list a house is right now! And...If you hurry, you can settle before the end of the year.  If you are thinking about selling your homeCall Margaret Rome 
Comments 12
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 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...
Comments 19
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Fall Back To Be On Time For Sunday Appointments!Most of our gadgets reset themselves, but a few need our assistance, like time changes in older cars, watches,  and the most noticeable are wall clocks in many homes and offices.  Be thankful for the extra hour of sleep!  Do you have some friends or family that need a reminder?  Send them a link to your blog to remind them that Daylight Saving Time affects all our time telling devices.          Moving the time before turning in on Saturday night will allow me to be on time for my live radio show on Sunday at noon.  Live call-in number 410-922-6680Text during the show 410-530-2400 The first Sunday in November is the time we Fall back.  Please don't forget to set your clocks and gadgets back one hour, and enjoy your extra hour. When do you t...
Comments 15
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Two calls came through this week, each with the same general comment. I heard that you specialize in unique and unusual properties. Yes, you heard right!That is music to my ears!Both callers have me excited and intrigued. I had an appointment and listed one this week. The other one, retiring within two years, is getting projects done and asking my opinion on more updates. I think it may be a month or two before she is ready for my visit.So how did they hear about me?  One from a listener on the radio and one I met at a party a dozen or more years ago. She remembered my enthusiasm about her purchasing a massive barn on 2.5 acres twenty years earlier. Her friends and family were against her purchase, going so far as to say she was crazy to buy this old run-down structure. But she always ...
Comments 22
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
2:30-3:30 Sunday, October 31, 2021 7940 Stevenson Rd 21208 MDBC2014926 $599,944 5 Bedrooms 3 1/2 Baths    Here is a forever house with five bedrooms, a sunroom addition, an office with a separate entrance, and a large den on the main level. Two bedrooms on the upper level with another full bath and abundant storage. Two wood-burning fireplaces plus a pellet stove. The patio is wired and ready for your hot tub. Garage and studio/office with separate entrance. Updated and upgraded, this Sugar-built Stevenson home sits on a beautifully landscaped and manicured lot.     Click to see more photos.      For a tour or more information about this home Call Margaret Rome    
Comments 6
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
What makes an outstanding professional stand out from the rest?It's the communication! Of course, it comes down to researching and choosing the right knowledgeable person, whether it's your Realtor®,  mortgage lender, title company, attorney,  inspector, or various contractors.  The best professionals go a step beyond by staying in touch and giving timely updates about the transaction. LENDERThe lender keeps us informed when the application is complete, when they ordered the appraisal, any needed items, and any possible chance of delay or change in closing.  TitleThe title company confirms the process of what items are still needed, including but not limited to the pay-off information, title issues, mortgages, surveys,  whether a POA is required, verify documents, date, time, place of c...
Comments 19
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 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...
Comments 18
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
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...
Comments 25
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 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 ...
Comments 16
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 I was recently "interviewed," aka "grilled" by a seller's relative, a former agent, retired seven years ago and worked in another state.  (This was after they selected me to represent them as their listing agent.)Got the picture?One of the things said by this former Realtor®:"Nothing has changed in the past 30 years in Real Estate except for technology.  In this market, anyone can sell a house by just putting it in the MLS and waiting for competing offers! They will be interviewing other agents."  Thinking about the situations that have come up since we met, I made a list of a few items that I've seen with recent transactions-Home inspection request after the deadline-Ground Rent owner absent-Change in title from buyer to a trustee-Shared driveway without a recorded easement or a locat...
Comments 23
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
My first-time home buyer found the perfect home, and we went to settlement yesterday.  We knew this house was just right! Right size, location, condition, parking, porches, and the right price!It is located at the end of the street and right for a pet lover. Below is the listing agent's description. 'Amazing three bedroom two full baths,single-family home in the highly sought after Ralston neighborhood. The last house at the end of a "no outlet" street, on a huge tree-lined double lot. New roof, freshly painted interiors, and exteriors, Hardwood floors throughout. New energy-efficient appliances. Spacious eat-in kitchen plus separate dining room. Large covered front and back porches. Spacious basement, TWO CAR GARAGE with plenty outdoor parking. Lots of room for gardening and outdoor ac...
Comments 18
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Baltimore Condos For sale What is a condo? A condo can be any style of housing including, but not limited to,  townhouse, single-family, high-rise, mid-rise, semi-detached, garden apartment, patio home, individual home in a gated community, elevator building, multilevel with no elevator, and some communities that are 55 plus. They can range from no amenities to those with golf, tennis, pools, tot lots, and community centers.  What about condo fees? Ask!How old is the building? Is there on-site management? Is it a full-service building?  Is it pet-friendly? Does it have community laundry?  Are any utilities included? Is there assigned parking? Garage parking? Is the parking attached or separate? Is the garage deeded?  What do you get in a condo?Ask!Is there a doorman to help with packag...
Comments 10
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 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...
Comments 14
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Buck·et list definition'...experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime.' I am enjoying my friends who are sharing their bucket lists with me. But,I'm living my bucket list. When I was eight years old, my dad died, and I knew then I wanted to be a nurse. At this early age, I was sure I could have saved him. And even as a little girl, I started my list of goals that others call a bucket list. I am now supportive and happy for my friends who are making their bucket lists come true.   Bucket list=goals=accomplishments the Rome Way.-I did become an RN and the youngest head nurse at Sinai Hospital. -I met and married the love of my life, and we counted each of those quality days all 16,802. -We're the first couple to do Natural Childbirth at my ...
Comments 29
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
What do you know about divorce?Since the pandemic, we are hearing more about couples who are separating.  But the rate is higher in marriages where the ages are above fifty. That number has doubled in the last thirty years and is known as ‘grey divorce.’  Women are facing more monetary challenges than men.  In general, they earn less, have smaller savings, and also live longer. When the time comes to divide up assets, there are more challenges in this age group. There is more to be concerned with, from retirement benefits, child support, pension plans, and Social Security. There may be the need to support kids through college, boomerang kids, and other family obligations.  And when it is time to sell the marital home,  find a trusted financial professional that can help explain how the ...
Comments 19
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Not everyone has a choice of when to move. There may be age or health concerns that affect when you sell.  There may be a loss of a spouse or caregiver. There may be family too far away that you are not able to stay connected. There may be financial challenges when you don't have a choice, and there comes a time when a move is a necessity.Changing homes is not easy at any time, but as people age, there is more of a challenge: so many questions and so many concerns.Is your home set up to 'age-in-place? Is it safe?Is it accessible, preferably without stairs? Is a ramp or stair-glide possible?How is your general health? How is your mental health and memory? Are you thinking ahead of five years?Consider some choices: move to an apartment,  buy a condo, check out a 55 plus community, or a se...
Comments 17
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
What's it like to have a home in two different counties like Baltimore City and Baltimore County. There are properties that part is in the city and the other in the county. Over the years, I have sold more than a handful of these listings. And it is always interesting. The topic, brought up on this past week's radio show, created a discussion from the listening audience. Questions came upWhat about schools?Where do you pay taxes?When is trash day?Which library?How about a neighborhood pool?A senior center?For the school situation, my experience has been that there is a choice. Since you are paying two tax bills and have two tax IDs, you have a choice, just like voting. I have always taken these "on the line" properties as a positive. Maybe your job requires you to live in the city, but ...
Comments 29
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Safety First Always!Chris Ann Cleland inspired this post. Her title ''Think You Are Safe Because You Work Strictly By Referral?''This reminded me of a call received a few years ago. The potential buyer wanted to see one of my listings, and he wanted to see it at 8 PM. Not a chance! I declined his request. Note: I did not know this person. It was dark; the house was vacant and on a wooded lot—more than enough reasons to deny any last-minute showing. And then came his mocking/sarcastic questions:  "Why won't you show me this house?  Are you afraid of the dark?"My quick reply: "No, Sir, I am not afraid of the dark, but.. I am afraid of you!"  I will be happy to set an appointment during the day with a Realtor® of your choice. What time tomorrow would you like to see it? He showed up the n...
Comments 29
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
  7940 Stevenson Rd 21208   $599,944 5 Bedrooms 3 1/2 Baths    Here is a forever house with five bedrooms, a sunroom addition, an office with a separate entrance, and a large den on the main level. Two bedrooms on the upper level with another full bath and abundant storage. Two wood-burning fireplaces plus a pellet stove. The patio is wired and ready for your hot tub.  Garage and studio/office with separate entrance. Updated and upgraded, this Sugar-built Stevenson home sits on a beautifully landscaped and manicured lot.     Click to see more photos.      For a tour or more information about this home Call Margaret Rome    
Comments 4
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
The first question about a listed home is almost always:  How many bedrooms and how many baths? The bath numbers don't change but think about the other rooms.  How many rooms do you need that have to have a bed? Should you say the house has five or six bedrooms, you may get a response...oh, that house is too big!Time for more questions. How many will live in the house? How many rooms do you need? How many rooms are needed for sleeping? I have seen three-bedroom houses, and two of those bedrooms have three bunk beds. Yes, that house could easily sleep eight.But "bed" rooms are used for many other activities other than sleeping.  How are your rooms going to be used?There are times when only one person will be occupying the home but needs so much space. Think about how you are going to use...
Comments 17
Explore Pikesville, MD
Pikesville, MD Real Estate Professionals