Real Estate
THE COASTAL REAL ESTATE RESOURCE Coastal Association of Realtors - OC Today-Dispatch
Published by OC Today-Dispatch for the Coastal Association of Realtors. Advertising in this publication is limited to members and affiliated members of the Association.
The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (CAR) is a trade organization for real estate professionals in Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset Counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Its membership consists of more than 1,000 REALTORs® and affiliate members serving the home-buying and homeselling needs of the public since 1957.
The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark, which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.
The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS is located at 314 Franklin Avenue, Suite 106 • Berlin, MD 21811. Phone: 410-641-4409. On the Web: www.coastalrealtor.org
OC TODAY-DISPATCH is the leading newspaper publisher on the Maryland coast, with OC Today-Dispatch publishing weekly on Friday, Bayside Gazette and Ocean City Digest publishing on Thursdays and Real Estate, the Coastal Real Estate Resource publishing key weekends throughout the year.
On the Web: www.octodaydispatch.com
Editor......................................................................... Stewart Dobson
Executive Editor................................................................ Steve Green
Account Managers....................... Mary Cooper, Renée Kelly, Terri French
Classifieds/Legals ........................................................ Pamela Green
Art Director....................................................................... Cole Gibson
Senior Page Designer....................................................... Susan Parks
Senior Ad Designer............................................................ Kelly Brown
Publisher..................................................................... Christine Brown
Administrative Asistant.......................................................... Gini Tufts
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate, Inc........................................Page 2
Jamie Caine/Coldwell Banker Realty.............................................Page 3
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., Sales & Vacation Rentals............Page 4
Tim Meadowcroft/Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.........................Page 5
Buckley Property Services, LLC......................................................Page 6
Team Bouse House Realtors/RE/MAX Advantage Realty.............Page 6
Eileen Bumba/Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc...............................Page 7
Hileman Real Estate, Inc................................................................Page 8
Kevin Heselbach/Engel & Volkers Real Estate...............................Page 9 S & G Enterprises, Inc...................................................................Page 10 Dennis & Tammy Medlock/Coldwell Banker Realty....................Page 10 Steve Green/Coastal Life Realty Group.........................................Page 11 Liam Johnson/ACHOSA
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Common signs insects are infesting a lawn
Well-maintained laws are a byproduct of hard work. That hard work is a point of pride for homeowners who spend countless hours throughout spring, summer and fall tending to their lawns.
All that hard work can be compromised when uninvited guests, namely insects, show up in a lawn. Insect infestations can turn a normally pristine and lush green lawn into a brown and sickly eyesore. Identifying which type of insect is damaging a lawn is the first step toward returning that lawn to its green glory. These are three common lawn insects and signs that they’re infesting a lawn.
1. Grubs
Grubs like to feast on the roots of grass right below the surface. Michigan State University Extention Turf & Landscape reports that grub damage can appear from March to early May or from mid-September to early November. The lawn and garden experts at GardenTech note that wilted grass blades are often the first indicator of a grub infestation, which is followed by patches of brown turf and eventually death. Crows, skunks and moles eat grubs, so the sight of them in a lawn could indicate an infestation.
2. Chinch bugs
The experts at BobVila.com report that chinch bugs are not necessarily
problematic when their populations are limited to around 10 to 15 bugs per square foot of lawn. In such instances, chinch bug populations are generally controlled by ants and ladybugs. However, extreme heat and drought, problems that have plagued various regions in North America in recent years, reduce the populations of bugs that feed on chinch bugs, thus increasing the population of these unwanted guests that feed on grass. GardenTech indicates that damage from chinch bugs is
most visible between June and September. That damage begins with grass taking on a purple tinge before it turns yellow and then brown after wilting.
3. Cutworms
The lawn care experts at Scotts® note that cutworms are moth larvae that hide in the thatch layer of a lawn during the day before emerging at night to feed on grass blades. Patches of brown grass between one and two inches in width is a sign of cutworm infestation. Homeowners who notice a
Need Help with Summer V
growing number of birds pecking away in their lawns may have a cutworm infestation, which can be confirmed by peeling up a section of damaged grass and looking for cutworms, which are brown, gray or black and tend to be around two inches long.
The good news is that grub, chinch bug and cutworm populations can be controlled. Local turf specialists can recommend strategies to curtail such populations and help homeowners restore their lawns to full health.
Lawn care maintenance often involves strategies to reduce routine infestation like grubs, chinch bugs and cutworms.
UPGRADED
Short drive to beach. New kitchen energy star appliances, granite counters & tile backsplash. Under-counter filtered water dispenser. LVP flooring main living areas. Sunken family room w/large bay window. Living/dining room combo w/bay window & patio slider. Large Primary BR corner fireplace. 2 full BA w/walk-in glass-doored showers, updated vanities & flooring + walk-in closet between. Sitting/TV room off Primary BR w/slider. 2 guest BRs share BA w/walk-in tub/shower. Enclosed breezeway for rec, office, or mud room leads to extra-deep 2-car garage. Covered car port. Driveway fits camper & 5+ cars. New HVAC unit, 2 water heaters (1 tankless) & ductless living room HVAC unit. Extensive hardscaping & landscaping, 2 sheds, concrete walkways, fenced area & front screened porch. Septic pumped & inspected. Well-water tested. Low HOA $210/year. Schedule your tour today!!!
Don't miss out on this nicely upgraded home with huge family room. New paint, carpet, new luxury waterproof flooring, brand new HVAC, new kitchen, remodeled baths, new front & side garage doors, new shutters, exterior power washed. 2 sheds & extra-large concrete patio. House is just ready for your personal touches. Close to Bethany Beach, shopping, restaurants & all the areas great amenities!! Home has been virtually staged to show its endless possibilities!!
OCEAN FRONT 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO
doors walk-in shower & pebble accents in primary suite. Hall BA tub/shower with tiled backsplash. Designer pieces & furnishing accessories included sale. Panoramic views of beach & pool from balcony. Ground-level storage area with beach essentials. Walking distance to shops, restaurants & movie theater. Easy access to transportation. Well-maintained, self-managed building overseen by dedicated manager of 30 years. Proven rental history & currently booked for most of the upcoming summer. Ideal investment or personal sanctuary!
$729,900
Spacious rancher with a garage on 3/4-acre lot backing to woods with newer roof, all new entry doors, windows, and some new waterproof plank flooring in the kitchen, bath, game room, and laundry. Nicely updated bath, hardwood floors in living room, hall, and all bedrooms. Seller has installed new attic vents, crawl space vents. Great location close to shopping and restaurants, and convenient to the beach and shore areas. Perfect one floor living in a quiet setting with NO HOA fees.
Awesome condo with great views of ocean from the front deck space. Spacious condo has been well-loved, enjoyed & maintained by current owners. Upgrades include new carpet, washer/dryer, king sized bed, queen memory foam Murphy bed, toilets, bathroom ceilings, wall HVAC unit in bedroom & fresh paint. Self-managed with low condo fees of only $150/month. Reserve study completed, building has many recent improvements including roof, painting & decks sealed. Make this your condo yours!
Advice for how to manage unique real estate market
Real estate has long been touted as a worthy long-term investment. With that conventional wisdom in mind, young adults often make buying a home one of their first big-ticket purchases. Though real estate remains a potentially lucrative investment, the market for homes has been difficult to navigate for several years running.
in November of 2024, which was a full week longer than a year earlier. That’s good news for buyers, but it still means buyers must be ready to pounce if they find a home and home price to their liking.
Hire a real estate agent. The hectic pace of the modern real estate market can be difficult for anyone to keep up with. But real estate agents keep up with the market for a living, and they can be invaluable resources for buyers whose commitments to work and family are making it difficult to keep pace.
High mortgage interest rates and low inventory have left many buyers feeling priced out of the real estate market. Others may find the competitive nature of the modern real estate market too stressful. No one can predict if or when the real estate market might be less challenging, but the following are some ways those looking for a house can navigate that process.
Ready your finances. It goes without saying that prospective buyers must get their financial affairs in order before they begin shopping for a house. But finding a home in the current market takes time, and some buyers might have let their mortgage preapproval letter expire without realizing it. Others might have experienced a dip in their credit rating as they turned to credit cards to confront inflation. That means buyers who began looking for a home months or even years ago might not be positioned to buy now should they find a home to their liking. Revisit your finances if it’s been awhile. Pay off any consumer debt that has accumulated in recent months and reapply for mortgage preapproval if necessary.
Be ready to pounce. Data from the National Association of Realtors found that the average home spent 32 days on the market before being sold
Emphasize long-term growth and value. According to Zillow, the median list price of homes in the United States was just under $387,000 by the end of January 2025. But buyers must also recognize that 22.4 percent homes sold above list price in that month, according to a Redfin analysis of MLS data and/or public records. Buying a home is more than an investment in a property. It’s also in some way an investment in the town where the home is located and in a homeowners’ future. So while it can be tempting to buy a home with the lowest asking price, home buyers should also seek homes that figure to experience the best long-term growth in value. Homes situated in safe and welcoming towns with good schools are arguably a better investment than homes with lower sticker prices but no such amenities. The real estate market has been challenging for buyers over the last several years. Various strategies can help buyers find a home that suits them and their budgets.
When planning to purchase a home, there are several key steps in the process, including who to hire for the real estate agent who will list the home.
2 BR, 2BA Open Floor Plan Coastal Condo with 20+ Ft. Vaulted Ceilings, Kitchen, Breakfast Bar, SS Appliances & Open Dining Area. Living Room Fireplace & Sliding Glass Doors to Balcony. Primary BR Sliders open to Newly Installed Balcony with Southern Exposure. Primary BR has updated BA. 2nd BR has good closet space. Full-Size Attic for Storage is added plus. 2 Parking Convey with the Property. Boat Slip conveys & Waterfront Common Area Deck. Updated HVAC & Newly Installed Front & Rear Decking & Stairs. A Truly Desirable Well-Maintained Home.
OCEAN BLOCK BEACH GET-AWAY with COASTAL CHARM!
9 41ST STREET #125 OCEAN POINT III • OCEAN CITY
1ST Floor 1 BR, 1 BA Condo with NEW HVAC System & Recently Installed SPACIOUS WALK-IN SHOWER. Open Floor Plan Kitchen-Living Room Combination. Spacious BR & inviting Balcony. A few steps down & on your way to the Beach. Can be Rental Investment, but Original Owners used as family get-away. Unassigned Parking, Exterior Shower. MidTown Ocean City near Convention Center & walking distance to restaurants & shops. Perfect location.
MANKLIN CREEK: CORNER CONDO in GREAT COMMUNITY!
11431 MANKLIN CREEK UNIT #5
MANKLIN MEADOWS OCEAN PINES $299,888
BAYSIDE CONDO PRICED TO SELL!
Fantastic 2-3 BR Condo as a Vacation Home or Year-Round Living. Delightful 2nd floor End Unit with open floor plan. Large kitchen with island, dining area & pantry Closet. Living room leads to an inviting balcony. Primary BR has large walk-in closet & BA. Close to South Gate & walking distance to dining, shops, dog park, community garden & many amenities. Condo fee includes insurance for building, exterior maintenance, lawn care, trash removal & snow removal. Amenities include: indoor & outdoor pools, terrific paddle, spec tennis, tennis & pickleball complex, beach club with its own parking, beach & restaurant, tiki bar & pool on 48th - 50th street in OC. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, playgrounds, parks & restaurant overlooking the marina. Also, Community Center, that has occasional Farmers Markets. You are Going to Love It!! 149 CAPTAINS QUARTER RD
Priced To Sell, ARV $320,000 Here is your chance to buy below market and update yourself with equity. This Condo is on the second level and an End Unit, and housing 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Primary Bedroom has its own Full Bath, and Both Bedrooms have NEW Sliders to Newly Updated Balcony. The Front Balcony and Stairs to be updated in the Fall, plus there are New Windows throughout. There is One More Assessment fee of $3150 due in the fall, that the seller is willing to negotiate into the sale. Property Sold In AS IS condition, giving a prospective buyer the chance to update to their own taste.
Boosting home valuation often about renovations
Cell: 443-235-5982 Debbie@HilemanRealEstate.com
3 Bedroom condo with breathtaking ocean and bay views from almost every room! Relax in front of the fireplace or on the 8x24 beach front balcony. The extra-large primary suite includes a 9 x 8 sitting area, large walk-in closet. Includes a sheltered parking space. The Capri offers one of the best amenity packages in Ocean City! Located within close proximity to all that OC has to offer!
A RARE FIND-A TOTALLY RENOVATED HOME ON 1.32 ACRES with Commercial/Home Occupation possibilities in the rear building! Recently replaced front door, pellet stove, water heater, LVP flooring, quartz countertops,
The Primary suite has direct patio access, walk-in closet, double vanity, and 5' tiled shower. Also a 15x12 office, four season sunroom, 17x12 Bonus Room, and a walk-in attic area. The Refuge has an impressive amenity package, All
People considering buying or selling a home are facing a unique market. The real estate market has been in flux for several years, and high interest rates have made it more expensive to borrow. The Mortgage Bankers Association is projecting that 30-year mortgage rates will level out to 6.5 percent for the foreseeable future. That means that people who have been waiting for changes in the real estate market could be disappointed, and hesitant buyers may finally just bite the bullet and buy even if mortgage rates are not where they hoped they’d be in 2025. Homeowners with properties they are considering listing for sale would be wise to make certain changes that will help garner the best prices from buyers.
Kitchen and bath improvements. The kitchen is the heart of many homes. Real estate agents may recommend that homeowners make minor to moderate kitchen upgrades like resurfacing cabinets, upgrading countertops and changing fixtures or hardware to give the room an overhaul. Homeowners also should look to bathroom updates as smart investments that can improve home value. Katie Severance, author of The Brilliant Home Buyer, characterizes kitchens and baths as “money rooms” that add the most value to a home.
Declutter the home. Homeowners should clean out items they no longer need. Decluttering can make a space feel bigger, which is beneficial in a market where open concept floor plans remain popular among home buyers.
When buyers walk through a prospective home, they want to envision themselves living there, something that is more easily done if the home isn’t overrun with the current homeowner’s belongings.
Get to painting. Painting a home is a cost-effective renovation with a lot of oomph. Freshly painted rooms appear clean and updated, says HGTV, and that can appeal to buyers. Homeowners should choose neutral colors to accommodate the widest array of potential buyers.
Improve the landscaping. The exterior of a home is the first thing potential buyers will see as they roll up to view a property or look at a listing online. Homeowners should start by evaluating and enhancing the landscaping. Ensure the lawn is well-maintained and add plants that provide color without a lot of maintenance.
Expand usable space. Homeowners can think about adding to the usable space in a home. This translates into finishing basements or attics or even converting garages to rooms. Or it may involve adding a three-season room. Homeowners can consider a number of improvements to increase the resale
their properties.
How to determine when to downsize a personal choice
The phrase “bigger is better” has endured for quite some time. Though it may be impossible to pinpoint precisely who coined the phrase, its lesson that larger things tend to be more valuable than smaller alternatives is applicable in numerous situations.
But no adage is applicable to every situation, and in some instances, people may find that bigger is not better.
Downsizing is an approach many individuals consider after turning 50. Parents who are empty nesters and others nearing retirement may wonder if the time is right to downsize from their current homes.
Though that’s a strategy millions of people have adopted over time, the decision is not always so simple. Individuals over 50 who are trying to determine if downsizing is right for them can consider a host of factors before making a decision.
Monthly expenses. Before downsizing their homes, individuals should determine just how much they’re currently spending on housing. Individuals who have fixed rate mortgages likely know the amount of their monthly mortgage payment, but what about maintenance?
Home maintenance expenses fluctuate, but a careful examination of the previous 12 months’ expenditures can give homeowners an idea of just how much they’re spending to maintain their prop-
8 • 121ST STREET UNIT
202A • OCEAN CITY
erties. The number may be eye-opening, as Thumbtack’s “Home Care Price Index” released in the third quarter of 2024 revealed that the average annual cost to maintain a single-family home reached an all-time high of $10,433.
If such expenses are preventing homeowners from building their retirement nest eggs, then it might be time to seek alternative housing.
Listing prices. Real estate prices have skyrocketed in recent years, which can be both good and bad for current homeowners considering downsizing.
Many people who downsize look to move from a single-family home into a condominium, where maintenance tasks are typically handled by a homeowners’ association (HOA). Such communities typically charge HOA fees, which can be minimal or considerable.
Emotional attachment. Downsizing may be considered with cost savings in mind, but it’s important to consider your emotional attachment to your current home.
Many homeowners over 50 raised their families in their current homes, and letting go of a property where so many memories were made can be difficult.
Any decision regarding downsizing is best made after considering a range of variables.
Never miss a sunrise! Enjoy ocean views from the balcony of this south-facing 1 bedroom condo located in North Ocean City, offering close proximity to the sand and the shimmering blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean! Interior of the home includes open eat-in dining and living space, stacked washer/dryer, central heating and air conditioning, and full bathroom with tub off of the hallway. Desirable features include an assigned parking space, outdoor shower, and low condo fees. Nearby restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping, entertainment, and Northside Park offer endless opportunities to enjoy the beach lifestyle. Just bring your flip-flops!
203 125TH STREET UNIT 377S1 HIDDEN HARBOUR NORTH N. OCEAN CITY
Well-maintained move-in ready condo fully furnished in prime area adjacent to Northside Park. Updated cabinets, appliances & flooring. Spacious balcony with storage & views of water & boat slip. Deeded boat slip with 10,000 lb. boat lift. 2 community 2 pools. Condo is across from Northside Park’s trails, picnic spots, playgrounds, ball fields, indoor sports complex & boardwalk pier. Short distance to the beach for relaxing or water activities. Ocean City lifestyle at your doorstep. Close to restaurants, shops & entertainment options to explore.
A real estate agent should help with entire transaction
Equity, pre-approval, contingencies, appraisal. These are terms associated with buying real estate, but even seasoned home buyers may not fully understand them. Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, but in today's economic climate, marked by inflation, high interest rates and high home prices across the country, it is more important than ever to understand the minutiae that is involved in buying and selling property. That's just one of many reasons why buyers and sellers can benefit from the help of a seasoned real estate professional.
Many people use the terms real estate agent, real estate broker and Realtor interchangeably. While these professionals handle many similar tasks, there are some notable distinctions between them. A Realtor is a registered term used to describe a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors.
These individuals must adhere to a strict code of ethics and have access to market data and transaction management services unique to this specific trade organization. A real estate agent is licensed to help people buy and sell real estate and is paid a commission when a deal is completed.
A real estate broker does the same jobs as an agent but is also licensed to work independently and may employ his or her own agents. The broker also may get a percentage of the commission from agents in addition to his or her own commissions, according to Investopedia.
A professional may represent either the buyer or seller or both. A buyer's agent is negotiating for the buyer in the transaction, while a seller's agent negotiates for the seller. Real estate professionals also can
website: stevegreen.coastallife.com
LOOKInG TO BUY OR SELL AT THE BEACH?
I will work with you every step of the way sharing my expertise about buying and selling real estate on the shore….just as I helped Anthony and Alison.
"Working with Steve was a pleasure. His deep market knowledge, sharp negotiation skills, and data-driven approach helped us through the procession from listing to settlement. Thanks to his guidance, I was able to meet mytarget return on investment with a smooth, hassle-free transaction. Steve handled everything with a high level of professionalism, grace and integrity — exactly what you want in a trusted partner. I highly recommend his services and will certainly utilize him again.”
AnTHOnY W. On RECEnT SALE OF OCEAn BLOCK MID-TOWn COnDO AT 96% OF ORIGInAL LISTInG PRICE.
represent both parties, known as dual agency.
Typically this does not occur in the same transaction, as that can create a conflict of interest. Commissions typically fall between 5 and 6 percent on real estate transactions, an amount that is split by all real estate professionals working on the transaction.
Why work with a real estate professional? Homeowners may wonder why they should seek the services of a real estate agent, broker or Realtor. That's particularly so for sellers, as buyers typically do not pay a real estate representative any money.
- Expertise: Considering that buying and selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions one will make, it makes sense to leave it in the hands of experienced professionals.
- Price a home right: Real estate professionals will conduct a market analysis and look at "comps" in the area to determine a price that is fair and will help a house move. When working with buyers, the agent or broker also will be able to help them come up with a reasonable offer price.
- Access to MLS: Agents and brokers have access to the Multiple Listing Service, which is widely used across the United States for listing available properties. It helps sellers sell faster and will enable buyers to view multiple properties all in one database.
- Negotiations: Leaving negotiations to a third party removes emotion from the transaction and can help everyone involved resolve issues and agree on acceptable terms.
Buying and selling real estate is a complex process. Real estate professionals can simplify the process and make it more enjoyable for buyers and sellers alike.
“Steve spent an entire day with me while my husband underwent training at a new job that requires us to relocate to the coast. As soon as we sell our home in Virginia, we will be following up with Steve to help us facilitate the buying process. We look forward to working with him, as he gained my confidence after the first showing. I don’t know many agents who would dedicate an entire day showing me properties. Not even rain could dampen his spirits, while others would view the search day as a waste of time. He has earned our business.”
ALISOn L. On SECURInG BUYER AGEnT SERVICES FOR An UPCOMInG PURCHASE In THE COASTAL REGIOn.
Realtors will assist buyers and sellers with wading through the complex process of purchasing or listing properties.
Customers should know inspection basics
The process of buying a home involves a number of variables that present at various times throughout buyers' search for a home. For instance, real estate professionals typically advise buyers to receive a mortgage preapproval prior to beginning their search for a new home. Once such preliminary measures have been taken care of, buyers can then search for a home and ultimately make an offer.
One of the more critical steps buyers can take when making an offer is insisting that the offer is contingent upon a home inspection. Home inspections offer a measure of protection that can save buyers from investing in properties that may look nice to the naked eye, but feature a host of costly problems beneath the surface. Individuals new to home buying may not know what to expect of the inspection process. In such instances, the following rundown can shed light on home inspections. Recognize inspection may be mandatory. Though it's not always the case, home inspections may be required by mortgage lenders. Lenders want to ensure borrowers can repay their loans, which might prove difficult if a home is in need of considerable repairs. That's why home inspections tend to be mandated by
lenders, even if they're paid for by buyers. Estimates from HomeAdvisor indicate home inspections cost between $279 and $400 on average, but that cost is well worth the peace of mind of knowing you won't unknowingly be buying a money pit.
Choose your own inspector. Buyers will choose their own home inspector, so it can pay dividends to start asking people you trust for recommendations even before you begin searching for a new home. Realtors also may recommend inspectors they've worked with in the past. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors® (nachi.org) also can help buyers find a home inspector.
Attend a home inspection. It's wise for buyers to attend a home inspection. Doing so allows them to see potential issues firsthand. Some seasoned home inspectors even prefer clients to attend an inspection so they can point out issues as they go through the house and answer questions directly rather than later on over the phone or via text or email. Though inspectors typically will answer questions off-site, it's easier for both buyer and inspector to discuss issues in person on the day of the inspection. And for buyers, this can be a great way to become more informed
about the home inspection process. Take your time. Expect to spend a good deal of time at the inspection, and not necessarily with the sellers present. The National Association of Realtors indicates inspections can take as long as three hours, so this won't be an in-and-out excursion. Buyers don't want to rush the process, so block out ample time on your schedule to attend the inspection. In addition, sellers typically are not home during an inspection, though it
can happen. Buyers who don't want sellers present can request that they are not on the premises while the inspection takes place. There may not be anything to compel sellers to be off-site, but it can't hurt to ask.
Overall, you should know that home inspections are a vital component of the home buying process. It's imperative that buyers take inspections seriously so they can feel confident they are not investing in a flawed property.
Buyers agents will often attend a home inspection process on behalf of or with their clients as part of the customer service process.
Mastbrook
Outstanding North Ocean City 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo in quiet section of Ocean City. Very well maintained with a recently renovated full bathroom. Just several blocks to the beach and many of your favorite restaurants and shopping areas. Everything is included with this one, except a few owner personal items. Just bring your toothbrush and enjoy your stay at your private hideaway in Ocean City.
Join Our Team At Long & Foster Ocean City !
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JEFFREY MESSICK
How much house to buy centers on needs, budget
Potential home buyers typically have lists of requirements they would like to find in a new home. Although there are many features that are universally appreciated, certain elements may appeal to particular buyers more than others. For example, a swimming pool may be coveted by active families, but may not be as desirable to retirees looking for less upkeep.
Size is consideration that merits significant attention. The mantra "bigger is better" is well known, but homes with significant square footage may not be ideal for all buyers. "How much home do I really need?" is an important question for buyers to ask themselves before they embark on their home-buying journeys. Here's how buyers can identify how much house they need.
Occupancy. The first consideration in home size is the number of residents. Rocket Mortgage says a good rule of thumb is to give each person 600 square feet of space. So that means a family of four would ideally live in a home that is 2,400 square feet, while a couple may be fine in a 1,200 square foot home.
Potential life changes. It's important to consider life changes on the horizon, and buyers should decide if they want to move as a result of those changes or if they want to set down strong roots and stay in one home. For example, a starter home may be perfect for newlyweds, but the space may be too tight when kids come along. Also, those who anticipate caring for a parent in the future may want a home that will accommodate an extra resident in the years ahead.
Tiny house movement. The trend to live in very small houses has gained popularity in recent years. Many people have chosen to live with less and downsize to diminutive homes. Most "tiny" homes are less than 400 square feet and are not much bigger than some owner's suites in larger homes. There are merits to small homes, and that includes a small environmental impact, less clutter, financial advantages, and other perks like spending more time outdoors.
& decorative moldings. Spacious interior living areas. Detached 3-car garage adds storage & parking. Off-street parking also with shared driveway entrance. Short stroll to downtown Snow Hill’s shops, restaurants & the Pocomoke River. Small-town charm & easy access to the Eastern Shore’s best attractions. Don’t miss this rare opportunity. Schedule your private showing today!
Number of rooms. Generally speaking, the more rooms in a home, the larger the house. Potential buyers should identify rooms they feel are essential. While formal dining rooms once were de rigueur, they largely fell out of favor in recent years in lieu of open floor plans. The more rooms you need, the larger a home should be.
Housing budget. Sometimes how much house a person needs comes down to how much he or she can afford. Small homes tend to be less expensive than large ones. However, even small homes in urban areas or those close to the water or other attractive amenities could still cost quite a bit.
Housing size is a personal preference that potential buyers must consider when they are shopping around.
Determing how many bedrooms, general square footage required and amenities sought will help narrow the property search for customers.
sundeck, exer room & concierge services. Perfect primary or secondary residence or investment property. $1,000,000
Five indicators time is right for renovations
Weighing potential returns on owner investments a major part of process
Homeowners renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. Renovations can increase the value of a property and make homes safer and more comfortable for their occupants. Improvements also can be made to stay current with the times or to give a home a new vibe.
Statista projects $510 billion will be spent on home improvements in 2024. The home improvement market is generating significant revenue. In fact, nearly a quarter of Americans opting to renovate their homes will spend an average of $10,000 on their projects.
Kitchens and bathrooms often get the most attention when it comes to home improvement. However, every room and space in a home may need a renovation at some point, and the following are five signs it's time to renovate.
1. Age
The National Association of Home Builders states that 50 percent of U.S. homes are over the age of 40. That means that age alone could dictate a need to renovate, particularly if some materials are original to the home. For example, asphalt roofs typically last 25 to 30 years, while window frames can last 20 to 50 years depending on how well they have been maintained.
2. Inconvenient layout
Some homeowners scratch their heads when faced with awkward floor plan layouts. While one may live with the inconvenience for some time, typically a floor plan that isn't working for the homeowner is a major driver of renovations.
3. Outdated looks
A home can look dated even if it is a relatively recent build. That's because trends change quickly. For example, dark, cherry cabinets that were popular just a little while ago have now been replaced by lighter color palettes. Homeowners whose homes do not match the looks emulated in design magazines may consider a change, particularly if they're planning to sell soon.
4. Deterioration
Signs of water, storm or structural damage should
be addressed as soon as possible. Any deterioration should be a strong indicator that it's time to renovate.
5. Efficiency
Escalating utility bills could be indicative of an inefficient home. Homeowners can conduct energy audits and then improve the areas where energy loss may be occurring, such as windows, doors, siding, and insulation.
Homeowners can renovate their homes when they see fit, but various signs may warn that it's time consider updating or remodeling a home.
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Flipping homes different in today’s market due to costs
In recent years, home sellers have experienced record profits as the value of real estate has risen dramatically. Bankrate indicates the median home price across the United States is around $486,000 Flipping homes gained popularity prior to the spike in real estate prices, but that increase has led some novices to consider flipping more closely.
Though it's true the chances at turning a large profit are substantial in a market where high prices are the norm, potential flippers may benefit from a rundown of the practice before they decide if it's something they want to do.
What is flipping? Flipping works when an investor purchases a property with the intention of selling the home (or business) for profit without actually using it.
The basic premise of flipping is to find a property at a low price and sell it at a much higher price, typically after renovating the home. Investopedia says it is important to complete this transaction as quickly as possible to reap the greatest return on investment.
Many new flippers overestimate their skills and knowledge and lose money in the process. Common mistakes include thinking that a project will cost less or the home will be turned around quickly. It can take months to find the right property, and then there will be time
needed to renovate. Costs involved include the initial sale, renovations, holding costs, and capital gains tax when the sale goes through. All of these can eat into profits.
Limited inventory makes things tougher. It can be challenging to find a good deal as everyone seemingly wants to be in real estate these days. With fierce competition in a low-inventory market, flipping can be like finding a needle in a haystack.
Know the tax benefits vs. tax risks.
According to Tresa Todd, founder of the Women's Real Estate Investors Network, flipping may be less tax-efficient in the United States than getting into investment properties. Flippers will be paying short-term capital gains instead of long-term capital gains.
According to the website NerdWallet, capital gains taxes are paid when one sells an asset for profit. The rate at which capital gains is taxed is based on whether you hold an asset for less than a year or longer than a year. Long-term capital gains tax rates are generally lower than short-term capital gains tax rates.
As a flipper, you should abide by the "golden rule,” which says you as a buyer should pay no more than 70 percent of what the house's estimated ARV (afterrepair value) will be, minus the cost of the repairs necessary to renovate the home
Pointers for aspiring gardners to consider
Gardening is a popular hobby all over the world. Ruby Home Luxury Real Estate estimates there are 71.5 million gardening households in the United States alone. That translates to around 185.9 million people engaged in some form of gardening, which places the U.S. among other countries where gardening is wildly popular, including Australia and China.
A greater number of people are showing interest in gardening, which is a rewarding hobby that's good for the mind and the body. Those who are new to gardening may need a crash course to get started. These pointers can help anyone.. Choose the best location. Spend time in the yard and decide where to house a garden. A far-off corner may get the most sun, but will you forget about the garden if it is too far away? Ideally, the garden should be located where it will get at least six to eight hours of sun each day. There also should be a water source nearby. The spot also should be convenient so that it is easy to go and pick vegetables or prune flowers.
Start small. If you're new to gardening, begin with a small garden footprint so that you can get your feet wet. A raised garden bed can be a good starting point because it is contained and easy to maintain. As your experience (and garden) grows, you can add to the garden size the next time around.
Soil management. It's unlikely
that the soil in the backyard is the perfect mix to grow healthy plants. It's more likely that the garden will need some soil modification. You can test the soil makeup with do-it-yourself kits or work with a garden center.
Start seeds inside. If you'll be starting a garden from seeds, it's best to
start indoors before your region's frostfree date. This way the delicate plants will get the needed care and can establish before they go outdoors in the ground. Keep them humid by covering the seedlings in plastic wrap.
You can start the seeds in different containers, even empty egg cartons.
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Transplant to larger containers after the seedlings grow a second set of leaves. An automatic watering system, such as a timer hooked up to the sprinkler, can keep the garden well-watered, which increases the chances of success. Then it will only be a matter of weeks before the garden can be enjoyed throughout the season.
Finley
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Fax: 888-302-6558
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How to establish your own peaceful backyard retreat
Backyards have undergone quite a transformation over the last decade-plus. The days when patios and decks were all a backyard living space had to offer are largely a thing of the past, as homeowners have realized just how valuable it can be to commit to a stunning backyard.
The real estate experts at Zillow estimate that homes with backyard features such as outdoor televisions, outdoor showers and outdoor kitchens command 3.1 percent more than expected upon reaching the market. If 3.1 percent doesn't sound like a lot, it actually equates to nearly $11,000 on a typical home.
Homeowners can take the following steps to establish a peaceful backyard retreat.
Refresh the landscape. Even if your vision is centered on outdoor furniture and a space that accommodates movie nights under the stars, it's still best to refresh the existing landscape if it needs a little upkeep. Overgrown trees, hedges and bushes can create the same cluttered vibe that dominates interior spaces overrun with items.
If necessary, work with a local tree service or landscape architect to trim, or even remove, trees and hedges that are crowding the backyard and making it feel claustrophobic or giving it an unkempt look. Aim for a landscape that affords a balance
of sun and shade so the space is as comfortable as possible throughout the day.
Multiple gathering spaces. Once a backyard retreat is established, everyone who calls the property home might find the space hard to resist. Keep this in mind when planning the space and aim to set up multiple gathering spaces.
An outdoor kitchen with a nearby dinner table can be a great space to enjoy al fresco dining, but a separate area to read a book or watch a movie or ballgame can make the space more versatile.
Water features. Running water has a way of calming the nerves, and that's good to keep in mind when planning a backyard retreat. Water features run the gamut from garden ponds to koi ponds to fountains to hot tubs. Homeowners can identify which feature best aligns with their idea of relaxation and then work with a landscape architect to ensure it's installed in their backyard oasis.
Made in the shade. Temperatures are rising in many areas of the globe, and that's worth noting when planning a backyard retreat. Even the most ardent sun worshippers likely won't want to be exposed to the sun at all times when relaxing in their backyards.
A relaxing backyard retreat can make for an ideal space to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
