Admin

Ellicott City, MD Real Estate News

By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 – 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 The market is buzzing with activity! Here's what happened in the past 7 days: 25 New Listings 26 Coming Soon 4 Homes Under Contract 34 Homes Closed 3 Canceled | 1 Expired What does this mean? The number of new and upcoming listings (51 total!) shows continued seller confidence and strong inventory entering the market. Meanwhile, 34 closed sales is a solid sign that buyers are still making moves and deals are getting done. If you're thinking about buying or selling in Ellicott City, let's talk strategy—this market still offers big opportunities! Contact EPIK Home Group for a personalized market analysis or your next move! #EllicottCityRealEstate #EPIKHomeGroup #HowardCountyMD #MarketUpdate #RealtorLife #MarylandHomes #JustListed #ClosedD...
Comments 3
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 – 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 The Ellicott City market is heating up just in time for summer! Check out this week's numbers and what they mean for buyers and sellers: New Listings: 19 Coming Soon: 17 Under Contract: 13 Expired Listings: 0 Closed Sales: 15 Canceled Listings: 4 Market Analysis: Inventory is booming — with 19 new listings and 17 coming soon, there’s no shortage of options for buyers. Buyer activity has surged compared to last week, with 13 homes going under contract (up from 2!). Closings are strong at 15, showing solid follow-through on recent contracts. 4 canceled listings may suggest some sellers are adjusting expectations — pricing and preparation are key. No expired listings once again, meaning homes are still moving efficiently when priced right....
Comments 0
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 – 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟏𝟑-𝟏𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 Here’s your snapshot of what’s happening in the Ellicott City real estate market, brought to you by the EPIK Home Group! New Listings: 13 Coming Soon: 11 Under Contract: 2 Expired Listings: 0 Closed Sales: 10 Canceled Listings: 1 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: Inventory is staying active with 13 new listings and 11 more coming soon, signaling strong seller interest and fresh opportunities for buyers. However, only 2 homes went under contract, suggesting buyers may be taking a more cautious approach, or there's a delay between showings and offers. The 10 closed sales reflect strong follow-through from previous contracts. With zero expired listings and only one canceled, sellers are staying committed and pricing strategies appear to be effective. #El...
Comments 1
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
2120 Ganton Green, Woodstock, MD Click here to Get Directions$385000 Photos Maps & Local Schools Print For more info, contact directly the Official Listing Agent, Ellie Mcintire with Keller Williams Realty at 443-418-7668 © or 703-330-2222 (o) – Have your mouse tour the house with the 3D tour - https://bit.ly/2120GantonGreenTour   Discover the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community in this meticulously maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom end-unit condo in the sought-after Waverly Woods neighborhood! Situated in a secure, elevator building with no age restrictions, this home offers a spacious layout, modern amenities, and access to an array of nearby conveniences—all while being just minutes from major commuter routes.Step inside to find a welcoming foyer with elegant hardwoo...
Comments 2
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
The age-old debate of whether to rent or buy a home continues to be one of the most discussed topics in real estate. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should be based on financial readiness, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of renting versus buying to help you make an informed choice.Renting: The Pros and ConsPros of Renting: Flexibility – Renting is ideal for those who move frequently or aren’t ready to commit to a specific location. Lower Upfront Costs – With renting, you generally only need a security deposit and first month’s rent, rather than a hefty down payment. Minimal Maintenance Responsibilities – Landlords typically handle repairs and maintenance, saving renters time and money. Access t...
Comments 5
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Real estate is one of the biggest financial topics people search for online. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a property, or considering real estate as an investment, you probably have questions. To help, we've compiled the most frequently Googled real estate questions and provided clear answers. Let’s dive in!Buying a Home1. How much house can I afford?Your affordability depends on your income, debt, credit score, and down payment. A common rule is that your mortgage payment should not exceed 28-30% of your monthly income. Online mortgage calculators can help you get an estimate.2. How does the home-buying process work?The process includes: getting pre-approved for a mortgage, hiring a real estate agent, searching for homes, making an offer, conducting an inspection, secu...
Comments 3
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, whether it’s for a partner, family, or even your dream home! Just like in relationships, finding the perfect property requires patience, commitment, and knowing what truly makes your heart skip a beat. Here’s how love and real estate go hand in hand—and why this season of romance might be the perfect time to say “I do” to a new home.1. Knowing What You WantJust like in love, house hunting starts with understanding what you truly want and need. Do you prefer a cozy cottage or a modern condo? Are you looking for a spacious backyard or a prime city location? Listing out your non-negotiables—whether in a relationship or in real estate—helps you stay focused on what really matters.2. Falling in Love at First SightSometimes, you just know when you’...
Comments 2
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Valentine’s Day is often seen as a day for couples, but it’s really about celebrating love in all forms—self-love, romantic love, and love for family and friends. Whether you're single, in a relationship, or married, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this special day.For Singles: Celebrate Self-Love and FriendshipBeing single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to practice self-love and enjoy the company of friends and family.Ideas for Singles: Pamper Yourself: Book a spa day, get a massage, or have a relaxing bubble bath with your favorite book and music. Host a “Galentine’s” or “Palentine’s” Party: Gather your single friends for a fun night with games, movies, or a fancy dinner. Treat Yourself to Something Special: Buy y...
Comments 2
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
When listing a home, timing is everything. One of the most important questions a listing agent can ask a seller is:👉 “What does your timeline look like to go to market?”This simple yet strategic question sets the stage for a smooth, successful sale. It ensures everyone is on the same page, avoids last-minute surprises, and helps position the home for maximum exposure.🔑 Why This Question is Crucial ⏳ Market Readiness: Are You Truly Ready? Some sellers want to list ASAP, while others need time to declutter, stage, or complete repairs. Example: A seller eager to list next week but still has unfinished renovations? Knowing this early helps you set realistic expectations and avoid delays. 📈 Strategic Pricing & Market Timing The right timing can impact a home’s value. Rushing to market in a s...
Comments 5
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...
Comments 3
By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
As a listing agent, one of the most insightful questions you can ask a seller when they reach out to list their home is: "How did you hear about me?" While it may seem like a simple inquiry, the answer can provide valuable insights that help you refine your marketing strategy, build stronger client relationships, and ultimately grow your business.Why This Question Matters1. Identify Your Most Effective Marketing ChannelsUnderstanding where your leads come from allows you to focus on what’s working. Did they find you through a Facebook ad? A Zillow search? A neighborhood mailer? Knowing the source helps you allocate your marketing budget and time wisely.Example: If a seller says they saw your Instagram posts, you might decide to invest more in social media marketing, post more frequently...
Comments 5
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...
Comments 3
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...
Comments 2
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...
Comments 2
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...
Comments 2
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...
Comments 3
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 ...
Comments 8
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 ...
Comments 5
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...
Comments 5
By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Among my favorite coffee shops in Howard County is the Old Mill Cafe in historic Ellicott City. It's located just across the bridge from Main Street with its charming boutiques, and at the beginning (or end) of the Number 9 Trolley Trail, a 1.25-mile scenic boardwalk and paved trail. Parking is available out front or around the corner in parking lot A on Oella Avenue. Their interior is cozy and the patio is just a great spot to enjoy brunch and one of their artisanal lattes. Dogs are welcome on the patio! My new favorite is the Lavender Vanilla Latte. It is so good! Old Mill uses sustainably sourced and locally roasted Orinoco beans, and they offer quite a selection of pastries, homemade crepes and sandwiches, desserts, quiches, and soups. You can also pick up a jar of local honey while...
Comments 8