Wish List for Night of Peace Family ShelterHoliday times are hard for people, and especially for those in need.  This year it seems that there are so many more families living on the edge of homelessness, in shelters and on the street.  Let's help those less fortunate than ourselves.  The Pikesville Senior Center is located at 1301 Reisterstown Road in Pikesville, above the Baltimore County Public Library.  This year the Pikesville Senior Center is working with Night of Peace Family Shelter to give to families in need.The following is a list of what NEW items are needed: Toilet Paper Paper Towels Laundry Detergent Disinfectant Wipes 45 and 55 gallon Trash bags Lysol Spray Fabuloso Cleaner Hand Soap  Hand Sanitizer You can drop these items off at the center until December 22 between 9 am... 12/16/2023

Things Do Work OutListed and sold a house for substantially over the asking price. We had offers on the first day of MLS. The buyer had already been outbid on ten homes and loved and wanted this house. It was a conventional loan, quickly closing and beating several other strong buyers. The inspection went smoothly! The loan looked good, BUT... the appraisal came in low.We knew the value was there. The seller would not reduce the house since we had multiple offers over the list price, all on day one. The buyer's agent, of course, wanted the seller to lower the price to the appraisal value. We appealed the process, and we lost!Okay, we were going back to the other offers. The buyer was devastated and asked her mortgage lender for advice. She did not want to lose this house, and the lender... 12/14/2023

  How many times has a buyer asked if it is negotiable? In reality, isn't everything in life negotiable?A few low offers have successfully made it to closing.  A lowball offer should not be considered an insult, and the seller should not feel offended.If someone takes the time to write an offer, provide financial proof, choose a lender, select a title company, produce earnest money, decide on various dates, including closing and inspection, and sign forty-plus pages, that is not an insult. That is an offer! Explain to the seller the people who saw your house and did not make an offer were insulting. If the offer is unacceptable, even if you and the seller think it's an insult, my favorite response: "We appreciate the offer, but no thank you."  If you are considering buying or selling a ... 12/12/2023

  All About Appraising On All About Real Estate On today's live radio show, "All About Real Estate," my guest was Lars Hosford, the owner of Four Corners Appraisal. It was a pleasure talking to Lars, who has completed over 15,000 appraisals in the past two decades. He shared valuable knowledge about the evaluation process and how real estate agents can prepare.During the show, we discussed various topics such as the typical appraiser's description, how comps are chosen, how the appraisal process works, how real estate agents can prepare, how to handle a low appraisal value, and who can communicate with the appraiser.We also discussed the appraisal of an unusual home in an area with similar homes and how to deal with it. Lars gave insights into how cash contracts and competing offers aff... 12/10/2023

  When you find a property that you like, go ahead and make an offer without delay. Whether you're a home buyer or an agent representing a client, making an offer is the first step. Don't wait and see if someone else is interested, as it's never the wrong time to buy the right house. Put the offer in writing to include a summary of the price, date, contingencies, and financing.  But, understand that a counteroffer is a rejection allowing either party to walk away.  Once you have an offer in writing, your REALTOR® can prepare and present net sheets showing the proceeds to the seller. You have several options to negotiate, such as price, possession, repairs, and exclusions. Making an offer is a crucial step in home-buying, so don't hesitate to take the first step towards owning your dream... 12/04/2023

  8319 Stevenson RoadStevenson 21208MLS #   MDBC2077546 is TOO LATE!     This four-bedroom, three-full-bath Stevenson Rancher is a rare find and even better than new! The house has two-car garage access from the front, kitchen, and patio, making it a convenient and practical space. The house features a wall of sliding glass plus a separate door to the patio and deck, which gives the living room an airy, open feel. The entire first level has gleaming wood floors, which adds a touch of elegance to the space.   The bright and beautiful gourmet kitchen is a standout feature. The white and grey quartz 'waterfall' counters contrast the groceries, making it a lovely place to cook and entertain. The kitchen has stainless appliances, including a deep sink with a curved black faucet, a double-doo... 12/03/2023

Looking for Something to do in Pikesville?Are you over 60 and looking for things to do? Do you want to take a fitness class? Do you want to join a book club? Learn to quilt? Join activities with other active people to socialize, learn a new skill, or improve your overall knowledge in any area.  The results of recent studies published in the recent issue of the AARP magazine state that adults who stay active and keep learning live longer and more productive lives.  What a great way to stay involved and up-to-date. I'll be teaching beginner and continuing quilting on Thursday mornings from 9:00 to 11:30 am.  Come join in the fun.The sign-up is now available for new classes starting in January.The Pikesville Senior Center is located on the second floor of the Baltimore Public Library in Pi... 12/03/2023

6 Clarendon Ave 21208MLS MDBC 2083002 White brick home located in the heart of  Pikesville! With five/six bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage, this property is ready for your home, Residential Assisted Living, or professional business office. Take a look and see how you would use this property. The main level features three spacious bedrooms, two primary suites, and two and a half bathrooms. There's a fully equipped kitchen and a second kitchen/prep room. The living and dining room, with a cozy fireplace and elegant wood floors, is the perfect setting for entertaining family or business guests.Upstairs, you'll find two more bedrooms, a full bathroom, and an expandable attic that can be used for storage or additional bedrooms. The lower level features two more rooms... 11/28/2023

Listings are the name of the game.  When a newly licensed agent asked:  'How long do I have to wait until I get a listing? My answer, of course, is that it depends. You have to wait until the seller and the house are ready!  Even when you have a list of property owners considering a sale, there is no way to know how long it will take them to get physically and emotionally ready to put the house on the market.   Here are three properties, three sellers, and three timelines. 1I met homeowners with a very unusual property about six years ago. We have talked and discussed their unique home. I've watched as the needed repairs were done. I listened as their family was "strongly encouraging'' a sooner-than-later move-out''. I've prepared the write-up and photography and have a signed listing a... 11/25/2023

      Thanksgiving day is the perfect time to be grateful! And I am thankful! I'm so grateful for the fantastic team of professionals who support my real estate business. Even though I'm a solo broker, many others include a bookkeeper, website manager, associate publisher, photographer, accountant, and computer technician. They all play a vital role in helping me.  In addition, I'm also thankful for all my colleagues I work with, including title companies, lenders, contractors, and inspectors. We can accomplish so much for our clients, and I'm so grateful.  Working with clients is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with sellers, buyers, agents, and brokers to help everyone achieve their dreams. It's a great feeling to work together as ... 11/23/2023

Eleven Slade CoopUnit 614Pikesville, Md 21208.MLS MDBC2082026 Welcome to a bright studio apartment on the sixth floor of Eleven Slade Ave, located in the heart of Pikesville, convenient to shopping and restaurants. This high-rise co-op is a perfect home if you want to rightsize. If you need a hassle-free, easy move, let's discuss optional furniture.  Check out the compact kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances and St. Charles kitchen cabinets.  Experience the fresh air and enjoy the views from your bedroom corner balcony.  The wall of windows ensures that the natural light fills the home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  Additionally, living across from the elevator provides added convenience. The mid-century lobby is inviting, with a front desk personnel that welcomes y... 11/22/2023

 You Could Be In Your New Home In The New Year.But only if you hurry!Ready to start fresh in the New Year? Move into your dream home now! You can achieve anything you want with a clear plan, organized finances, and trusted professionals. Act now and make your dreams a reality!  To be in that homeCall Margaret Rome 11/20/2023

Buying or selling a home can be stressful,  but with the right help, it can also be a rewarding and successful experience.  It's important to focus on the positive steps you can take to make the process smoother, less stressful, and more successful.    The right Realtor®One of the first steps you should take when buying or selling a home is to be sure you have a real estate agent who understands the market and houses similar to yours.  This will help you sell your home correctly or identify properties that meet your needs and budget.  That agent should guide you regarding legal and financial concerns.  Do they have the expertise, resources, and connections, always working to get you the best possible deal?Make sure you have a real estate agent who can explain the mounds of paperwork (in... 11/18/2023

"Experience the Best of Both Worlds in This Versatile Pikesville Property" This property offers endless possibilities for residential and business use. With five/six bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage, this beautiful white brick residence is move-in ready and sure to impress.  Walking through the main level, you will find three spacious bedrooms, two primary suites, and two and a half bathrooms. A possible kosher kitchen and prep area are perfect for avid cooks, with convenient access to storage and the garage. The living and dining room, with a cozy fireplace and elegant wood floors, offers the perfect setting to entertain guests.Upstairs are two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and an expandable attic that can be used for storage or additional bedrooms. With outside a... 11/14/2023

Thankful For 'All About Real Estate'Hosting a weekly one-hour radio show, All About Real Estate, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my expertise with others. I help people navigate the complexities of the real estate world and provide reliable information and guidance.  Offering trustworthy advice and direction can undoubtedly assist individuals in making knowledgeable choices.Whether a first-time homebuyer, a seller with a unique home, an investor, or a real estate professional, my goal is to ensure that you get the best possible advice.I love having industry experts share their knowledge on all aspects of buying and selling and addressing the general public's concerns.During the show, I share real-life stories and discuss issues related to real estate. I also take questions fr... 11/13/2023

Wanna turn back time? You can! This Sunday, you will gain an extra hour! It's a good idea to turn all clocks back on Saturday before going to sleep...so you will be on time for my live show on Sunday at noon. To Sell Your HomeCall Margaret Rome      11/02/2023

On today's radio show, we talked about haunted houses, and I asked if anyone had lived in or bought one.  I had an interesting caller discussing growing up in a haunted house.  He described how books on very high shelves moved, drawers opened, and footsteps were heard in the floorless attic above.  His mother was okay with the "ghosts" and reassured her family they were friendly.  When the ghosts would act up, Mom would talk with the ghosts, but this time "reassuring them that the family was not going to chase them out and they could stay.'' After the show, I received this message from the same weekly listener:"It was a pleasure speaking with you again on WCBM today.  I always enjoy your show as I always learn from listening to it weekly.  After your request for anyone who has lived in ... 10/29/2023

Selling Your Home Should Not Be ScarySelling a unique or historical house can require a different approach, and a haunted house is no exception! While it may seem challenging, it can also be an opportunity to market a property uniquely. I would highlight the historical or architectural significance of the property and work with buyers open to the idea of living in a haunted house.I would ask the sellers how they want to share the possibility of unnatural activity and make sure to follow the required disclosure laws. By providing all the necessary information to potential buyers, I can help them make an informed decision. So, if you have a unique or haunted house to sell, don't worry! With the right approach, we can find the perfect buyer. And when you're thinking about selling your home... 10/28/2023

  Looking for the right home can be frustrating and time-consuming; sometimes, it feels like you're searching for the right partner.    But when you finally find "the one," it's like winning the lottery …(without the money). There are a few similarities between finding the right home and finding the perfect partner: Finding the right home takes time and patience, like finding the perfect partner.  You might have to kiss a frog or two (or tour a few frog-like houses) before you find your prince charming. But don't worry, you'll find your happily ever after. When searching for a home or partner, you must be true to yourself. Don't settle for something that doesn't feel right because you're exhausted from the search. You don't want to be stuck with a house that is not right or a partner wh... 10/18/2023

 October Is The Time To Sell  Many think spring is the only time to sell because most houses look their best with green lawns and flowering trees. My favorite time to sell is right now. Always build listing inventory even if others suggest waiting. The time to buy and sell is ALWAYS when the buyer and seller are ready.... and that can be any of our seasons and in any weather.   October's market is changing along with the fall colors.Now's the time to be out there taking advantage of this opportunity. And to repeat: The right time to sell is when you and the house are ready. At this time of year, there's less competition, fewer agents working, less inventory, and those looking are more serious buyers.If you are ready to buy or sell your home, call Margaret Rome.October is the time to get... 10/17/2023