If You Can Smell It, I Can't Sell ItGetting your home ready to sell? Let's face it: a lovely scent can be the secret ingredient to getting those potential buyers swooning! Here are some light-hearted tips to help your space smell amazing, while being kind to anyone sensitive to strong smells. Get your home deep-cleaned professionally! If you will do it yourself, roll up those sleeves and give everything in your home a good scrub! Vacuum those carpets, wipe down surfaces, and make those windows sparkle. A clean home not only looks good but also smells good.Try simmering some water with lemon, orange, or cucumber slices. It’s a natural way of creating a fresh aroma without any of those overpowering artificial scents. Forget the cinnamon because of allergies. Sprinkle baking soda on your ... 05/12/2025

When a potential qualified client expresses interest by saying,  "Let's go look at houses," it’s important for me as a real estate broker to guide them through a thought process that makes sure they’re truly ready for the journey ahead.When is the Right Time to Start House Hunting? There needs to be a clear plan before diving into the exciting world o  f home tours. If you're a homeowner, we need to discuss whether selling your existing home is in the cards before making that new purchase. I understand that juggling two moves can be daunting, especially for families with children and pets.Take a moment to assess your situation. Ask yourself if you’re prepared to sell your current home and buy a new one simultaneously. A great way to gauge that readiness is to think about what it would t... 05/11/2025

2007 Thistlewood Rd 21209MLS# MDBC2115632Welcome to an inviting Colonial that perfectly blends timeless charm with modern accessibility! Nestled in the Beazer Homes at Parke at Mount Washington, this move-in-ready home has quick access to Baltimore Beltway 695, The Quarry, I-83, and minutes to Sinai Hospital. Step inside to experience a spacious five-bedroom layout designed for comfort and family togetherness. Elegant wood floors add a touch of sophistication to the main level, which features an open floor plan connecting the kitchen with the living room, dining room, family room, office, and a sunlit screened porch—an ideal setting for gatherings and everyday living.A highlight of this home is the impressive private bedroom suite, complete with its hidden elevator. This thoughtfully de... 05/10/2025

Alan May recently shared some thoughts on reviewing contracts line by line. Many of us have a case of the jitters because we don't give legal advice. We’ve even been warned to steer clear of home inspections in case we accidentally become the next lawsuit victim. How often have we muttered, “I’m NOT an attorney, and I don’t even play one on TV?” It’s our way of making it clear that we’re here to help, not to dispense legal wisdom. Those numerous addenda we handle aren’t just for decoration; they help us avoid playing lawyer!Do you remember when changing a date was as simple as crossing it out and scribbling a new one? We need a new form if the address switches from Avenue to Lane.How often has an agent said, “I’m not an attorney” before answering questions? Our job is to help folks navi... 05/09/2025

The Importance of Confirming Electronic SignaturesA few years ago, I encountered a situation that underscored the importance of understanding who is signing documents electronically. I was working with an elderly couple to review a contract. Their well-meaning children, eager to help, were debating which one should electronically sign on behalf of their parents. I stepped in to clarify that I would meet with the parents in person and invited the children to join us. On another occasion, just before closing, the wife expressed frustration about the seller's request to remain in the property rent-free for an additional thirty days. The sellers, who owned a huge property, had asked for this extension, which was granted. The wife, visibly upset, insisted she had not agreed to this arrangeme... 05/08/2025

What do you prefer? One, two, or none.Having two dishwashers in a kitchen has many benefits, especially for large families or those who host gatherings. One dishwasher can wash everyday dishes, while the other takes care of pots and pans, reducing the need for handwashing. This setup also frees up sink space and makes it easier to load one dishwasher while the other is running.One dishwasher can serve as a storage area for clean dishes, minimizing unloading time. Dual dishwashers provide a practical solution for homes with specific dietary needs, such as Kosher kitchens.   It’s possible there’s not enough space or plumbing for a second dishwasher, or maybe you decided to live dish-washer free. (One of my clients used theirs for bread storage)  I saw a great idea in a home I sold a while... 05/06/2025

**Do I Have to Read the Contract?**I am working with a client whose property I sold five years ago and now plans on selling another home. One thing I remembered was her attention to detail. Keeping this in mind, I highlighted the areas that required initials or signatures and provided her with a copy for review.Anyone familiar with standard contracts knows that there is rarely anything standard about a legally binding document of a couple of dozen pages. True to form, I received a text a few days later asking if I had time to answer some questions.Once again, I was impressed by this consumer for her ability to identify and question every "new" change implemented over the past five years. Her insights were remarkable, and none of her questions were typical. It would have made for an exce... 05/05/2025

 Embracing Your Passion as a New Real Estate AgentAs soon as it stops being fun, I'm done. When I first took the real estate course, this was my attitude to tide me over after an accident and I still feel the same way.Starting a career in real estate can be both exhilarating and challenging. As a new agent, it’s important to recognize that this journey is about more than just changing your job and showing pretty houses. It's about adopting a new mindset. Here's advice to help you navigate this exciting field.Understanding the TransitionWhen you begin your real estate career, you’re stepping into a world that demands a different way of thinking. This transition will require you to learn new concepts, acquire essential skills, and adapt to a fast-paced environment. Real estate isn’t just ... 05/03/2025

Catonsville, MD District 1 RedistrictingIf you live in Academy Heights, Paradise, Dunmore, Charlestown, Maiden Choice Elementary, Western Tech, Westgate, Overbrook, Medwick Garth, or Westowne Elementary neighborhoods of Catonsville/Baltimore County, you need to pay close attention and speak up to have your concerns heard. Baltimore County is about to be redistricted, and we are about to be removed from Councilmanic District 1 and assigned to District 2, centered along the Liberty Road corridor. This move undermines our community's political influence and weakens our ability to advocate for the needs of our neighborhoods. Our community leadership strongly encourages our voters to reach out to the Councilmanic Redistricting Committee and voice your opposition. Removing these neighborhoods... 04/29/2025

                                                                                             Celebrating Four Million Points on ActiveRain!Today marks a significant milestone on ActiveRain—I've officially hit Four Million Points! It's hard to believe that it has been almost two decades since I joined this fantastic community. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that this achievement goes beyond just numbers. It’s not merely about accumulating points; it’s the years of consistent blogging, the countless hours spent writing, and the engagement with fellow members that truly count. Each post, comment, and interaction with the community has played a role in this journey.In the early days, those points definitely remained a motivating factor. They encouraged me to write, to connect, and to s... 04/28/2025

Real estate can often feel like the weather—unpredictable, ever-changing, and influenced by various external factors. Just as a sunny day can quickly turn into a thunderstorm, the real estate market can shift rapidly based on economic conditions, interest rates, and consumer sentiment.As I sat at my desk today, the sky was sunny blue and a very comfortable 70 degrees. In a split second, there was thunder, and within minutes, a driving rain with heavy gusts followed. It looked like pink snow; so many flowering trees were losing their petals. The weather can change anytime, just like the real estate market. It's not good or bad weather. It's just weather! It is how it is perceived.In many markets, spring is synonymous with a surge in activity, akin to the blooming of flowers. Buyers come ... 04/26/2025

  Saying Goodbye & Moving Forward When it’s time to leave your home, it’s important to find closure. Each home holds special memories, from childhood to the moments you’ve shared with loved ones. As you prepare to move on, take a moment to remember the good times—the family gatherings, cozy evenings, and even the challenges that helped you grow. Inviting your children or grandchildren to share stories can make saying goodbye easier for everyone. It’s okay to feel joy and sadness as you reflect on your experiences. Allow yourself to embrace these emotions fully; they show how much love has filled your home.   As you walk through each room, recall the laughter, cooking smells, and the conversations. While it’s difficult to say goodbye to such a meaningful place, hold onto the memories as... 04/25/2025

​Catonsville, Maryland, affectionately known as "Music City, Maryland," is a charming suburb located just west of Baltimore. With its rich history, strong sense of community, and convenient location, Catonsville offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility.​🎶 A Vibrant Community with Deep RootsEstablished in 1831, Catonsville boasts a rich historical heritage. Its downtown area, particularly along Frederick Road, features a variety of local shops, eateries, and historic sites that reflect its storied past. The town's nickname, "Music City, Maryland," highlights its vibrant local music scene and community events that bring residents together throughout the year. ​🏡 Real Estate: A Market on the RiseCatonsville's real estate market has shown consistent growth. As of Ma... 04/25/2025

3400 Halcyon RdStevenson, Maryland 21153MLS#  MDBC2118304 Please read the story  Seller's Letter to My Childhood Home.Build your private estate in the Valley.It has been family-owned and loved for the past seventy-four years. This unique opportunity offers over seven breathtaking secluded acres in Greenspring Valley, Stevenson. This is a potential for creating a spacious private estate ideally located minutes from the Beltway, Falls Rd, and I-83 in Baltimore County, offering both convenience and privacy. Driving through, you’ll arrive at a beautiful, flat area enhanced by stunning old-growth trees and lush shrubbery. Imagine your dream home on these pristine acres in 21153 Stevenson, MD.  This is Greenspring Valley, where tranquility and elegance come together—a long, level possible gat... 04/23/2025

Baltimore Heritage Quilt Expo 2025April 26-27, 2025 - 10 am - 5 pmMaryland State Fair Grounds, 2200 York Rd, Timonium, MD 21093The Baltimore Heritage Quilt group is proud to present its biennial quilt show. Come and enjoy over 400 quilts, featured quilters, a memorial quilter exhibit, a quilter's boutique, a raffle quilt, a sewing machine raffle, a buy-it-or-bid auction, a basket auction, classes, free demos, and over 16 vendors.Tickets are available in advance or at the door. There is plenty of free parking, and the show is also accessible via light rail. Tickets at the door are $12, children under 12 admitted free with an adult. Advance tickets are available here for $10. Advance sales end on Thursday, April 24, at 9 pm. 04/22/2025

5526 Council St, Baltimore, MD Click here to Get Directions$2100 3 Beds - 2 Baths - 0.07 acres Lot Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Nicely maintained end unit townhouse close to everything convenient. 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. Hardwood floors throughout, finished basement, laundry in the house. Gas cooking, attic storage. Covered back porch overlooking generous flat back yard. Walking distance to downtown Arbutus and UMBC. Follow This Home 04/22/2025

  About twenty years ago, a retired couple met and fell in love. She owned a single-family home, while he had a top-floor condo in a lovely 55-and-over community. They faced the challenging decision of where to move together. We discussed the pros and cons of both options. He was reluctant to move into her rancher, and she didn’t want to move into his condo.I began asking them questions: What would your ideal place be? Do you have to remain in Maryland? Can you describe what you are looking for in a dream home?  And here is what they came up with:They envisioned a home filled with art, culture, warm temperatures, and open skies.He was an astronomer, and she was an art lover and collector. Realizing that Baltimore no longer met their needs, they traveled west and quickly found and purcha... 04/21/2025

. Our homes are like mirrors to our personalities, often showcasing our quirks in interesting ways!Turning a spare bedroom into an extravagant walk-in closet—talk about living your best fashion life! Then there's the family that swapped a large rec room for an enormous poker den where friends gather for game night. And I am about to visit a listing with a chicken in the kitchen sink.  Stay tuned for that one.Another family went all out with a “cat room” in their Victorian farmhouse, filled with tree branches and cozy nooks, leaving hardly any space for humans. But hey, the cats get the VIP treatment!And another home had Christmas-themed pigs everywhere!That’s a conversation starter. And speaking of quirky collections, I know a guy whose whole room was dedicated to turtles. Others fill t... 04/20/2025

When buying a home, it's important to understand EMD earnest money deposits. These deposits demonstrate your seriousness about the purchase, showing the seller that you are ready to invest your interest and finances. Think of it as putting your "skin in the game."Earnest money is a deposit that demonstrates your commitment to buying a home. Typically held in escrow, this deposit is applied toward the purchase price when you close on the property. In a competitive market, offering a larger earnest money deposit can make your offer more attractive to sellers, as it shows your dedication to purchasing their home.While there’s a chance you could lose your deposit, there are protective measures in place. If the seller doesn’t follow through on their responsibilities, you can often get your m... 04/19/2025

I shared this years ago, and it's still relevant today!In a busy town, there was a popular hair salon with talented stylists who provided great haircuts and color, and they made it a fun experience. When a number of budget salons opened nearby, offering haircuts for just $5, the stylists at the upscale salon became worried. Instead of lowering their prices, the smart owner decided to turn the challenge into a joke with a sign that read: “We Fix $5 Haircuts!” This funny sign attracted clients who were unhappy with their cheap haircuts and wanted a makeover. The stylists gained confidence as they worked on these clients, showing that good quality and a sense of humor can beat more affordable competition. The upscale salon survived, thrived and found a special place in the market, proving ... 04/16/2025