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Howard County, MD Real Estate News

By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
When preparing to list a home, one of the best ways to create an engaging and compelling listing is to ask the seller:👉 What do you love most about your home?👉 What are its best selling features?These questions go beyond the basics of square footage and bedroom count. They bring out the home’s unique personality, emotional appeal, and hidden gems that can attract buyers on a deeper level.Why These Questions Matter✅ Emotional Appeal – Buyers often choose homes based on how they feel rather than just logical factors. A seller’s personal connection can help create a heartfelt story that resonates.✅ Highlighting Unique Features – Sellers can reveal charming aspects that might not be immediately obvious, such as: A cozy reading nook by a sunny window. A vibrant community with friendly neighb...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
When listing a home, one of the most crucial questions a listing agent should ask a seller is: “Why are you selling?” This seemingly simple question can uncover key insights that shape the entire sales strategy. Understanding the seller’s motivation allows agents to tailor their approach, set the right expectations, and ensure a smooth transaction.Understanding Seller MotivationA seller’s reason for moving directly impacts the timeline, pricing, and negotiation strategy. Here are some common motivations and how they affect the sale: Job Relocation: If the seller needs to move quickly for a new job, a more aggressive pricing strategy may be necessary to attract buyers fast. Growing Family: If they need more space for a growing family, they might be flexible on timing but firm on price. D...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Understanding a buyer’s financing situation as early as possible is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful home-buying process. By identifying how a buyer plans to finance their purchase—whether through a mortgage or a cash payment—you can proactively address any potential challenges or contingencies that may arise. This allows you to prepare for additional documentation, lender requirements, or any financial roadblocks that could delay or complicate the transaction.For example, if a buyer is relying on mortgage financing but has not yet been pre-approved, they may face delays in securing a loan, which could put their offer at a disadvantage in a competitive market. In contrast, a buyer who is pre-approved will have a clearer understanding of their budget and can move forward wi...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Understanding the buyer’s timeline is essential for providing the right guidance and support throughout the home-buying journey. As a real estate professional, your role is to help buyers set realistic expectations regarding how long each step of the process may take. This includes property searches, scheduling and completing inspections, securing financing, and navigating the closing process. By clearly outlining these timeframes, you can help buyers feel more prepared and reduce any potential stress or uncertainty.One of the key benefits of knowing a buyer’s timeline is the ability to anticipate challenges and adjust your approach accordingly. For instance, if a buyer needs to move quickly because their lease is expiring in 60 days, you can prioritize finding properties that match the...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
We just moved a beautiful credenza into a new listing coming soon in Columbia, MD. It's quite heavy, we have to remove the drawers to be able to move it up and down stairs. But, it's been so worth it every single time as it adds so much personality and warmth to a space which is one of the main goals of home staging.This piece is one of a few that was gifted to us by clients whose homes we listed - and sold, of course! It's an unexpected perk of being Realtors who stage. We are firm believers in the magic and benefits of home staging and have been building our inventory over the last few years. The generous contributions from clients downsizing, relocating, selling their childhood homes, or simply redecorating are so appreciated. We say it all the time, we have the best clients! Using t...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Determining the ideal number of bedrooms and bathrooms is an essential step in narrowing down property options based on the buyer’s specific living space needs. By understanding these preferences early on, you can ensure that the properties being considered align with the buyer’s lifestyle and future plans, making the search process more efficient and personalized.For instance, a retired couple looking to downsize may prefer a smaller home with just one or two bedrooms and a single bathroom, as they no longer need extra space for children. On the other hand, a young couple planning to start a family might prioritize a home with multiple bedrooms and additional bathrooms to accommodate their growing household. By taking these factors into account, you can present options that truly fit t...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
  When helping a buyer find the perfect home, it's important to narrow down their options based on their preferences. Asking the right real estate questions allows you to focus on the specific types of properties they are most interested in. This helps streamline the search process and ensures you're only showing them homes that closely match their needs and wants. For example, if a buyer is only interested in single-family homes with large backyards, you can avoid showing them condos or townhouses that wouldn’t fit their lifestyle. Similarly, if they prefer a modern-style home with an open floor plan, you can filter out older properties with more traditional layouts. By understanding their ideal property type early on, you can tailor your recommendations, making the home search more e...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Understanding a buyer’s preferred location or neighborhood is a key question in real estate. Why?First, it highlights your expertise in specific areas. By knowing where a buyer wants to live, you can showcase your familiarity with the neighborhood’s amenities, schools, transportation, and other essential factors. This reassures buyers that you have the knowledge to offer valuable insights and guidance.Additionally, aligning your search with the buyer’s location preferences streamlines the process, saving time and effort for both parties. A targeted approach demonstrates your dedication to finding the right fit, enhancing the overall buying experience.Finally, a buyer’s preferred location provides insight into their lifestyle and priorities. Different neighborhoods cater to various needs...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
 Understanding a buyer’s budget range is essential to the home-buying process. This question lays the groundwork for setting realistic expectations and streamlining the search for properties that fit their financial situation. By knowing their budget, you can focus on presenting options that align with their means, saving time and avoiding unnecessary disappointment.Discussing budget early on also allows you to offer guidance on financing options and connect buyers with mortgage professionals to secure the needed funding. This approach not only ensures a smoother process but also builds trust and transparency—key factors in earning their confidence and securing their business.
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
As dreary as yesterday was, I had to step out to preview a charming old house in Elkridge, MD. It was worth it! This home was built in 1899 and is within walking distance to one of my favorite Howard County restaurants. It has three spacious bedrooms, two full baths, one powder room, a large eat-in kitchen with coffered ceilings, a surprising amount of storage space, and oh-so-much character. My favorite were the original hardwood floors, and the upper level that once was an attic. It was beautifully refinished into a retreat featuring a beamed cathedral ceiling, and an en-suite bathroom. Look at that clawfoot tub! It's perfectly situated to dream the day away. I could see myself soaking in there while getting lost in a good book. This space could be an owner's suite, an amazing guest s...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Showcasing a curated selection of home decor, accessories and clothing, Sweet Elizabeth Jane is always one of the prettiest stores in Historic Ellicott City, but especially at Christmas time. Every year, the store is transformed into a whimsical and magical wonderland. It is such a treat to browse and shop at Sweet Elizabeth Jane! A few items in my house and closet were purchased at SEJ. It's a favorite to visit when friends are in town, and I have also found perfect presents for family and clients there. Sweet Elizabeth Jane hosts regular special events and is always worth a visit, especially this time of the year. You can find the store on upper Main Street where they relocated to after the floods that devastated historic Ellicott City, MD a few years ago. Stop by the Crazy Mason, or ...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
There are only a few days left this year. Time is limited and will surely fly by. If you plan on selling your home in 2025, you may want to start preparing now.Before you hit the market, there's usually lots to do: cleaning, decluttering, updating, replacing... you name it. I always walk their home with my seller clients, I write up a to-do list divided into must-do items and if the budget allows-items, and we discuss the optimal gameplan. I also come in to stage and I hire a professional photographer to complete the three Ps (preparation, presentation, pricing) that it takes to sell your home for highest and best.So what should you do *now* if you are planning to sell your home in 2025, especially if you want to take advantage of the spring market? Here are my top 5 tips how to use the...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
I am team real Christmas tree! I cherish the family outing to find the perfect-for-us tree, and I love the way my house smells after bringing one home and setting it up. It's probably definitely one of my favorite days during the Holiday season. Where in Howard County, Maryland can you get real trees and a great experience selecting one? At Payne Christmas Trees & Holiday Market in Elkridge. They are located off Route 1, just before the Baltimore County line. Besides trees, you can also purchase wreaths, stockings, and other festive decor. Not pictured are the outdoor fireplace to make s'mores and the hot chocolate/cider station. If you are on my team, then I can highly recommend Payne's for the best Christmas trees and experience! We've been getting our trees there for years and they'v...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
It's almost time for the annual Holiday Mingle at The Pink Cabbage, one of my favorite stores in Howard County to hunt for unique gifts and home decor. It's happening this Saturday, December 7th, 2024 from 10 to 5. If you have never been to The Pink Cabbage, then their Holiday Mingle is a great day to visit and browse the collective. The Cabbage gals will serve cocktails and hors d'oeuvres and will have - no doubt- transformed the store into a magical Christmas wonderland once again. The video is from last year's event to give you an idea of just how special it is. The Pink Cabbage is a collective of vendors selling home decor, shabby chic, boho style, accessories, and anything else to make your home and life more beautiful. It's a local small business and women-owned. They are located ...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
My favorite independent bookstore in Howard County, MD, is Backwater Books in Ellicott City, MD. It's more than a bookstore; it's a Bibliopub. You can also enjoy a seasonal cocktail, beer, wine, or hot tea at Backwater Books. That's a winning concept in my book (pun totally intended). Backwater Books opened its doors in 2022 and occupies the old Times Building (ca. 1890), the former home of the Howard County Times newspaper. It offers a selection of children's and adult books, including banned books, and art from local artists.So if you stop by, allow plenty of time to sit and get lost in a book, enjoy a hot or cold beverage, and take in the artwork. This is not the kind of bookstore you want to run in and out of, of course, you could do that, too. Backwater Books also hosts regular eve...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
It seems like it was just the other day I was running up and down the stairs in this delightful starter home near Historic Savage Mill, and staging it. What a whirlwind transaction! After just three days on the market and a busy open house, we received two competitive offers, and sailed along smoothly with one of them all the way to the closing table! I admit, past experience had taught me to be wary working with the buyers' chosen lender, Navy Federal Credit Union. Although, I have been a member for 21+ years as well, the lending side is a different beast. I didn't feel confident that they would pull it off within 3 weeks. I stand corrected! Navy Federal Credit Union delivered and we celebrated one happy closing day last week. It's always so sweet to meet the buyers and to see how very...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Catch a glimpse of the Belmont Manor House, one of my favorite estate homes in Maryland. The Belmont is an extraordinary historic estate under the stewardship of Howard County. It sits on 68 acres adjacent to Patapsco Valley State Park and was once a working plantation. The Belmont dates back to ca. 1738 when Caleb Dorsey, Jr. built a home on the land his father had gifted him as a wedding present. After the Civil War, Belmont became a social gathering spot for the wealthy who built summer homes nearby, at Lawyer's Hill. Today, Belmont Manor and Historic Park is a popular venue for conferences, retreats, and weddings. Although I didn't include any interior shots (there may be a part 2 coming), the Belmont has a bridal suite and it's just such an enchanting place. The ceremonies typicall...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
8855 Willowwood Way is a charming starter home in Aspenwood near Savage Mill. Good things come in 2s: it has 2 bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, 2 full baths (and a powder room), and 2 decks to enjoy the lovely wooded view:The finished lower level added to its appeal. It's a cozy spot with a rec room, brick wood-burning fireplace, and walk-out to the lower deck and fenced-in backyard. I hosted a very busy open house at 8855 Willowwood Way and was thrilled to call my seller the next day to present him with two offers. We were under contract in just 4 days and have already cleared inspections and the appraisal. It was such a beautifully busy few days that I didn't even get around to posting Just Listed pictures as promised in my teaser post. So, here you go.. a few more pictures of this cut...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
This delightful starter home in Jessup, MD, just hit the market. There's so much to love about this property, and I will share more info and some pictures soon. For now, allow me to tease you with its fabulous location. 8855 Willowwood Way is not only convenient to Fort Meade and NSA, but it's just 1.5 miles, or a 6-minute drive, from historic Savage Mill and one of my favorite coffee shops! Besides getting the best lattes and European pastries (and vegan croissants!), there's much more to do at the Mill, you can go antiquing, thrifting, crafting, dining, ghost walking, and adventuring. You can even get married there - and what a beautiful spot to exchange vows and celebrate it is!If you would love to be close to a local gem that is Savage Mill, and are looking for a starter home, then ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
5251 Candy Root CourtGlenmontColumbia, Md 21145MLS MD2043752Welcome to your five-bedroom home in the heart of Columbia! This property is conveniently located near major roads, including 95, 90, 70, 29, and 100, for an easy commute. Nestled on a corner lot on a private court, this home is surrounded by mature trees and adjacent to county land, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility.  Note: it's the only house on this block. You have easy access to one of Columbia's renowned paved walking trails.NO CPRA fees!Upstairs, check out the open overlook and discover the versatile two-room primary suite with an adjoining bathroom and dressing room. This additional room provides endless possibilities, whether used as a separate sleeping area, a cozy TV room, a home office, or an expansive dr...
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