A few years back, I was selected to list a home. However, the seller had a relative who used to be an agent and wanted to meet me. I had to go through another interview with the seller's relative, a retired and pessimistic agent who had worked in another state ten years ago. During the interview, the former agent said nothing has changed in real estate over the past 30 years except for technology. Anyone can sell a house in this market by putting it on the MLS and waiting for competing offers. When informed that I needed to share all information and negotiations with the pessimistic retired agent, I declined the listing and wished the seller well. I will share the outcome of the sale one day, but it was not in the owner's best interest.  Here is a list of situations to illustrate that r... 03/25/2024

 Double the Flair  Furnished and Bare!" Buyers look at a home in different ways. Some may not be able to picture how a house would look with its furnishings, while others may prefer to imagine it as a blank space.  As a seller, you can accommodate the buyer's needs and preferences while prioritizing your interests. Selling a furnished house can help buyers visualize how to utilize each room and make the house feel more like a home. On the other hand, selling an unfurnished house presents a blank canvas for buyers to imagine their belongings. To cater to both types of buyers, take photographs of your furnished and unfurnished house. Double the Flair Furnished and Bare! 03/20/2024

 Dream home -All-brick charming Colonial3500 Fallstaff RdBaltimore, MD mls mdba2100322Welcome to your new dream home in the charming neighborhood of Fallstaff, northwest Baltimore! This beautiful all-brick colonial house is everything you have been looking for. From the exquisite Flemish bond brickwork to the well-maintained landscaped corner lot, this home will impress you from the moment you set foot on the property.  As you step inside, you will be greeted by a cozy vestibule leading to a spacious foyer that separates the formal living and dining rooms.  The custom-built house features mahogany and oak extensively throughout, adding to its warmth and charm. The updated kitchen with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, and a breakfast bar is perfect for all you... 03/15/2024

3436 Halcyon Road Stevenson 21153MLSMDBC2048248Unique Homes May Take Longer To SellThis 90-year-old farmhouse sits on 2.6 acres of beautiful Stevenson land and is looking for a new owner. With over 50 windows and four finished levels, the house features classic and timeless designs, five to six bedrooms (including two primary suites), and 3 1/2 baths. For more information on this unique homeCall Margaret Rome 03/13/2024

  Today is the second Sunday of March, which means we will be "Springing Forward" at 2 a.m. Don't forget to set your clocks ahead by an hour. It's a good idea to remind people with Sunday appointments about the time change so they can be on time. Also, I have a noon radio show, so please account for the time change and tune in accordingly.                                            When it's time to sell your homeCall Margaret Rome 03/09/2024

Two O'clock Tuesdays Join the weekly Zoom meetings and become a part of a community where each member has something valuable to contribute, share, and learn. Over the past four years, we have had an impressive list of speakers, making this platform an excellent opportunity to connect with members with creativity, knowledge, and insight. As busy professionals, our time is valuable.   Feel free to join the discussion every Tuesday or whenever you can. Think about- Who would you nominate for a speaking opportunity and why?- Whose expertise would you like to learn from?-What would you ask them if you had the opportunity? Two things to do this month1-Take a look at the  March Challenge2-Click HERE to join Two O'clock Tuesdays Selling a home Call Margaret Rome    03/07/2024

6 Clarendon Ave 21208MLS MDBC 2083002SOLD & SETTLED Congratulations to the seller on the recent sale of this beautiful home located at 6 Clarendon Ave! This white brick home in the heart of Pikesville featured five/six bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage (one is used as a second kitchen), making it an ideal property for various uses. The home's main level boasts three spacious bedrooms, two primary suites, two and a half bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a second kitchen/prep room. The living and dining room, with elegant wood floors and a cozy fireplace, provided the perfect setting for entertaining family and business guests. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and an expandable attic that could be used for storage or extra bedrooms. The lo... 02/28/2024

 "How much work should one do before selling? It depends on who you ask. You could start with fresh paint, maybe some new carpet, or replace a bathroom vanity, which may lead to doing even more. While we're at it, let's ______, you fill in the blank. What is your budget and timeline for the project? Do you have the right advisors and contractors? They may suggest additional items.It's important to remember these four expensive words, 'while we're at it.'  Undertaking an update/remodel can be overwhelming.. You may start with a simple project, but one thing can quickly lead to another. Here are those words again; let's update the kitchen while we're at it.  Do you love watching TV shows about home renovation? While it may seem like everything is done in just twenty minutes, the reality i... 02/24/2024

  Help Me Find A Baltimore Home!   I am searching for a small, distinctive home with a garage and a greenhouse in the Baltimore Area.      Gardening is a top priority, and while the lot size doesn't have to be big, it should be large enough to accommodate a planting area and some greenery.    This buyer is attracted to unique homes like historic properties, cottages, or mid-century modern homes.  Relocating cross country, they will be starting a new job next month.  It would be ideal if they could find a home to purchase quickly instead of renting before the move. Are you selling? Please reach out if you have or know of a home that fits the bill.   If you are selling a home,  Call Margaret Rome. 02/20/2024

Consistency is one of the main keys to success in real estate. Always look for opportunities to meet and talk with people. Consistently market your properties using strategies such as weekly advertising, blogging, and radio show hosting. Being passionate about your work is important as every day offers the chance to meet new clients, show homes, and write offers, making the day interesting and fulfilling. Answering phone calls and discussing real estate is always enjoyable, never knowing what topic may arise and what you might share with others.However, helping people make informed decisions when buying or selling their homes is the most rewarding part. You can offer consultations to provide guidance throughout the process, answer questions, and ensure that your clients have all the nec... 02/15/2024

It's already mid-February, and the good news for home sellers is that buyers are not waiting for the spring season but are instead returning to the market.The mortgage rates are holding steady (mid to low six range).If you're thinking of 'right-sizing,'  go ahead and take advantage of the current market. Don't wait to buy! It's a fact that buyers tend to follow the crowd. In case of a decline in interest rates, you will inevitably face heightened competition, multiple offers, and increased property prices. It's not a pleasant experience for anyone who has gone through the bidding process.By locking in a higher interest rate now, you can avoid uncertainty and refinance if and when the interest rates come down. Want to discuss selling your home? Call Margaret Rome    02/10/2024

As a Realtor, it is crucial to ask direct questions to understand your client's needs and preferences better. Listening to their answers is the key to getting properties under contract, but tact is equally important when asking these questions.When working with a buyer, there are several questions that you should ask to help you find them the perfect home. Please start with the basics, such as whether they are working with an agent or have signed a buyer agency agreement. Find out who the decision-maker is and where they want to live. Ask them about their list of must-haves, such as a wood-burning fireplace, proximity to light rail, a particular school system, style of the house, type of lot, or parking situation. Knowing what they want will help you find them the ideal property. It is ... 02/09/2024

This month's challenge, hosted by Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can! and Kathy Streib, is to make a vision/dream board using a collage or collection of photos, quotes, or cut-out pictures that represent all types of goals and dreams to be realized through visualization. Here is mine:Reflecting on my journey, I've achieved goals and fulfilled my dreams. From pursuing my passion as a head nurse to marrying the love of my life and extensive traveling, life has been fulfilling and rewarding. As a ceramic artist, blogger, and author, I've learned that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to success. My journey as the Broker and Owner of HomeRome Realty has allowed me to help others find their perfect homes. I take great pride in my weekly real estate radio show, where I share my kno... 02/05/2024

Being in the real estate business,  you already know that it's not just about selling a property; it's also about building strong relationships with your clients. One of the most important things you can do is to keep them informed and updated throughout the process. Let's face it: nobody likes to be left in the dark, especially regarding something as important as selling a property. Keep in touch regularly and provide timely updates. It's not just about making a sale; it's about making sure they know you care. Remember, selling a property can be a stressful experience for your clients, and it's important to understand their situation. A simple phone call or email can go a long way in building trust and maintaining a positive relationship.  So, remember that communication is the key to ... 02/04/2024

  Go For That SignatureAre you looking for a simple and effective formula to move forward in your real estate career? Look no further than the power of getting a signature every day possible.Getting a signature means progress. Whether signing a listing agreement, a buyer agency, or negotiating a home inspection, each signature is a step forward. By aiming to get a signature every day, you'll be able to achieve your goals and move closer to success.But it's not just about getting signatures from clients. You also give signatures by signing up for continuing education, attending Zooms, renewing your license, and investing in new technology. By staying current with day-to-day activities and learning, you can stay ahead of the competition and achieve your goals.  To help you better understa... 01/29/2024

Some of my radio listeners have asked about this concern. They have heard ads warning that their homes can be stolen right from under their noses. The solution, the ad says, is to buy title lock insurance.” What exactly is this service? Is it something you need to keep your home safe from property thieves? Are other safeguards already in place to protect the deed to your home?Q: What is title lock insurance?A: First, title lock insurance is not title insurance. These are two very different things. Title insurance protects real estate purchasers and lenders from losses arising after a real estate settlement resulting from unknown liens, encumbrances, or other defects on the title that existed before settlement. Title lock insurance – not insurance of any kind – claims to protect you aga... 01/26/2024

3300 Marnat RoadPikesville, Md 21208SOLD & SETTLED Welcome to 3300 Marnat Road, a rare gem that was available for sale in Baltimore County.  But not for long.This all-brick house had four bedrooms, two on the first floor and two on the upper floor. It also had two full bathrooms, one on each floor, along with a spacious basement ready for creative design. The first floor had a kitchen, dining room, and living room with a cozy fireplace and a bay window.  The house had gas heat and cooking, central air, and a front gated porch perfect for children, pets, or relaxing. The level 13 corner lot also provided plenty of space for outdoor activities and gatherings.  Although the house needed updates, rehabbed properties in the immediate area were going for two to three hundred thousand dollars ... 01/23/2024

Hot Tips for a Cool Fireplace: Keep It Safe and Toasty!Fireplaces are awesome! They make your home feel cozy and warm and are perfect for snuggling up with popcorn, a good book, or a movie.  But it would be best if you cared for them so they're safe and working well.  Sometimes, the chimney can get clogged up with soot and creosote, so it's best to have a professional clean it. You should also check that the chimney caps and screens are in good condition to keep out water and critters. When using your fireplace, make sure you're burning dry and seasoned wood, and always keep an eye on the fire. It's also important to have the damper open and working correctly so the smoke can escape. Glass doors with heatproof glass are a good safety feature, and you can even get a fan or blower to help... 01/20/2024

Welcome to the exquisite all-brick colonial home in Fallstaff, northwest Baltimore. This beautifully crafted house features custom-built Flemish bond brickwork and a slate roof. The well-maintained landscaped corner lot includes flagstone walkways and a patio, making it a perfect place for relaxation and gardening enthusiasts. The original owner, who hailed from a lumber business background, incorporated mahogany and oak extensively throughout the house, adding to its warmth and charm. Upon entering the home, you will be greeted by a cozy vestibule flanked with guest closets that leads to a spacious foyer separating the formal living and dining rooms.  The kitchen has granite counters, a center gas cooking island, a breakfast bar, Sub-Zero stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, book... 01/19/2024

 When working with a seller, it's essential to understand their motivation when buying or selling a home. In some cases, a reverse contingency can be helpful when a client is concerned about making two separate moves. This allows the seller to find the home of their choice within a short amount of time after an offer is made. As a real estate agent, it's essential to ask the right questions and understand your client's needs to provide the best possible service.    01/17/2024