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Pikesville, MD Real Estate News

By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Let’s talk about a favorite topic of mine, unusual homes! Have you ever listed a wild place or visited a home that made you do a double-take? Maybe it was a quirky house, a converted church, a McMansion, or even a tiny house where you had to sleep in a fetal position. Whatever it is, I want to hear your stories!What makes a home truly unique is the personality of its inhabitants. Some folks swoon over sleek, modern designs, while others would trade their morning coffee for a cozy cabin in the woods. Your tastes transform a mere house into a living, breathing reflection of who you are. And honestly, that’s what really makes a space feel like home.When I work with buyers, I like to dig a little deeper. What unusual quirks do they dream about in their ideal abode? A secret garden? A hidden...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
So, you think you are priced out of the market! Maybe for your dream home, you are! But only for now!At least find a way to get into the market, and by doing so, you get closer to making that dream come true. Contact your lender to determine what you can afford at this time. Then do your research with the help of your Realtor®. Be open to options, remembering this is temporary, a way to build, even slowly, for the future. Open up an "Our Home" bank account for deposits only-no withdrawals. When you don't go out for dinner, put that savings into the account. When family ask what you want for the holidays ask for a gift to your house account.  You get the idea. Consider purchasing a small home, a duplex, a condominium, or a property that needs repairs! Remember that every month, when you ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
The Offer Game: A Friendly Guide for Buyers and Sellers! Can Listing Agents Share Details About Other Offers? What Buyers and Sellers Should KnowIn today's competitive real estate market, many buyers and sellers wonder, "Can a listing agent tell me if there are other offers on a property?" The answer is not straightforward. According to the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics, listing agents can only disclose the existence or terms of other offers if the seller gives explicit permission—and only when another agent asks directly. This rule is in place to maintain fairness and trust during negotiations.Why is This Important?Understanding this rule is key for both buyers and sellers. It protects sellers by allowing them to control the information shared about their property. I...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Many buyers express a common concern in today's changing market: "What if I buy a home now and the market takes a dive?" This is a legitimate question that shows the doubt some people feel. And you might respond: if your main goal is to find a home to settle down in, focusing on when to buy shouldn't be your biggest worry. Think of real estate like a rollercoaster ride – there are ups and downs, some stomach-flipping turns, and maybe even some unexpected splashes. However, over time, homes tend to appreciate in value, much like a classic car or wine, which only improves with age. The longer you hold onto a property, the more equity you build, regardless of those occasional dips that make you grip the side of your seat.Instead of worrying about finding the perfect time to buy, focus on w...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
As a Listing Broker/Realtor®, I often get the same question from buyers and buyers' agents: "Do you have other offers, and at what price?" Honestly, it's like asking a chef for their secret recipe—why would I spill the beans on that?Every offer is different, and we are not sharing those details. My job is to protect my client's interests, which means their financial strategies are on a need-to-know basis—and trust me, you don't need to know!Letting out offer specifics can weaken a seller's bargaining power. As REALTORS®, we have a code of ethics that prioritizes confidentiality. Yes, I can tell you if there are other offers, but the juicy details? That’s off the table!Building trust during negotiations is important. If buyers feel left in the dark, it can lead to frustration. While it's...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Genius Alert!  Yesterday, while touring a very special and unique property, I came upon a simple yet brilliant idea that made me wonder: why isn’t this done in every single house? It can’t possibly be about cost; it’s just a sprinkle of common sense!So, what’s this “ah-ha” moment, you ask? Well, picture this: we have two types of water heaters—one that leaks and another that has the potential to leak.  So, why not take a proactive approach? Imagine a depression with a drain at the time of construction—perfect placement for water heaters. Instead of worrying about “if” they leak, we can simply accept that it’s a “when.”  Sure, we can install cameras to keep an eye on them while we’re away, have a friendly neighbor check in for us, and even use moisture detector alarms to keep us alert! ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Hidden Storage and Timeless Style!When it comes to real estate, the kitchen is the heart of the home. This stunning kitchen is a perfect blend of beauty, functionality, and modern design, showcasing why it can be the standout feature that sells a home. With smooth, oversized porcelain tile floors and elegant vertical white subway tiles, the space exudes both aesthetic appeal and practicality. The solid wood cabinets, featuring numerous full-extension pull-out drawers, provide ample storage while enhancing the sleek lines of the sparkle in the quartz countertops. A clever design touch is the microwave, placed in a lower cabinet for easy access, removing the need to reach up. Meticulously designed custom cabinets ensure planned storage solutions, while the induction cooktop and high ceili...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Unpacking the MAYBE Behind Price Reductions! When you see a property with a price reduction, MAYBE it's not just about the money  • MAYBE they are retiring and want to move fast.  • MAYBE a job transfer.  • MAYBE they found their next home sooner than they thought.  • MAYBE there was an illness or death.  • MAYBE they wanted to move before the school year started.  • MAYBE they have a vacation planned.  • MAYBE another baby is on the way.  • MAYBE a death in the family.  • MAYBE they need to move to take care of elderly parents.  • MAYBE they want to be near their grandkids.  • MAYBE the assisted living they’ve been waiting for years has just become available.  • MAYBE they are empty nesters.  • MAYBE they are buying out of the country.  • MAYBE they want to buy another home with no co...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
  One of the most rewarding experiences of my career as a real estate agent was assisting a remarkable mother and daughter in selling their cherished family home. The last celebration in June's beloved house was her last birthday.      At 95 years old and navigating the world with legal blindness, June approached life with a grace and spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her house was more than just a structure; it was a treasure trove of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories—a place that truly deserved to be honored.While the home needed some tender loving care, it was filled with character and warmth.From the dining room, which hosted countless family gatherings around a well-loved pool table, to the thriving greenhouse that mirrored her passion for li...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
9209 Howard Square Drive has sold and settled successfully!The buyers were thrilled with this nearly perfect two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo, which features the convenience of no steps and an attached garage. Located in a lovely gated community, this home provided the comfort and security everyone desires. Its prime location made commuting easy, with quick access to beltways 695 and 795, and nearby shopping options like Wegmans and Trader Joe's, along with fantastic dining choices such as Linwood's and Ruth's Chris.The abundance of natural light, thanks to the wall of windows and the sliders off the dining area that led to a beautifully landscaped patio, added to its charm. The white eat-in kitchen, featuring granite countertops and a convenient pass-through to the living and dining are...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
Is It Really Move-In Ready?When searching for a new home, the term "move-in ready" often appears in the description, but it can have different meanings to different people. With your Realtors® guidance, do some research. Look at photos, look at the history. What do those words mean?  Does it fit your expectations?The phrase “move-in ready” can vary significantly from one seller to another and from buyer to buyer. Some might define a move-in-ready home as one that feels almost new, complete with fresh paint, new carpets, modern appliances, and an updated roof. In this scenario, the home would be in excellent condition and require little to no work.On the other hand, some buyers may accept a home that hasn't been updated in years but is still livable. Such homes might feature outdated dec...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
When it comes to choosing a home, what might be a perfect feature for one buyer could be a dealbreaker for another. For instance, a location near the beltway can be a blessing for someone who travels frequently, providing quick access to major routes. However, for others, the noise and traffic associated with such proximity might detract from their living experience.The choice between a walkout basement and a no-walkout option can also vary greatly depending on personal preferences. A walkout basement offers convenience for those who enjoy easy access to outdoor spaces, but others may feel more secure with a design that lacks exterior exits, especially families with young children.Living on the city-county line presents unique advantages, like the choice of two different school systems ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
A Dream Property in Greenspring Valley! 3400 Halcyon Rd Stevenson 21153This magnificent seven-plus acres in Stevenson, cherished for seventy-four years, has officially been sold and settled. A lucky family will soon be building their dream home on this stunning property!  The land features a beautiful, flat area surrounded by majestic old-growth trees and lush shrubbery—an ideal setting for creating a spacious private estate. Conveniently located in Baltimore County, just minutes from the Beltway, Falls Rd, I-83, and Greenspring Valley, it perfectly balances privacy and accessibility.  This property, with its privacy, breathtaking views, and vibrant greenery, has found its new owner! I look forward to the completion of their custom home that will enhance this beautiful landscape. The so...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
The first time the buyers laid eyes on the house, it felt like a daunting challenge. However, with the efforts of a creative listing agent, a kind and knowledgeable buyer's agent, trusting buyers, and an excellent contracting team, it transformed into an incredible success story. The buyers had sold their home and were under pressure to make a quick purchase.My property wasn’t set to hit the market until it was finished, and it was far from complete. I took the buyer's agent through what was essentially a gutted shell: just brick walls, a fireplace, broken concrete floors, and a newly extended roof for a carport. The driveway and landscaping were planned as future projects to be completed after the initial work. What we had was a canvas filled with construction debris!Armed with just a ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
When I speak with homeowners preparing to list their property, I stress how overwhelming the process can be, even under the best circumstances. Most sellers don’t realize the emotional toll it takes to prepare a home for sale. Start the process early, whether you’re planning to move this month, or next year. The sooner you start, the easier it becomes.I receive frantic calls from clients who are anxious getting their house ready to sell. Check in regularly on their progress. They may need help with sorting through belongings, making updates, or tackling repairs. This can include everything from deep cleaning and painting to replacing carpets, as well as addressing plumbing and electrical issues. And let’s not forget to inspect the roof and other critical systems, obtaining professional ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 With home showings, it's the quality, not the quantity, of showings.Selling a property effectively relies on communication and accessibility. To improve the selling process, your agent needs to be available to give information, answer questions, return calls promptly, and arrange hassle-free property viewings for other agents.Using electronic tools to schedule appointments, whether via text, email, or phone, can streamline the appointment process. It’s important to confirm appointments because it helps make sure that potential buyers are a good fit for the listing. For example, yesterday, an agent scheduled a showing for my studio unit in a co-op building. When I called to confirm this appointment, the agent was unfamiliar with a CO-OP building and did not realize it was a studio.  Nei...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
In simple terms, What's The DifferenceI have been asked to explain the differences between a real estate agent, a real estate salesperson, a Realtor®, and a real estate broker. While these terms may seem similar, they have distinct meanings and varying levels of experience for your home-buying or selling.A real estate agent is a licensed professional who assists clients in buying and selling homes. They guide clients through the entire process and provide market insights. Similarly, a real estate salesperson typically fulfills the same role. After completing the required training and exams, they help facilitate sales, which may include tasks like assisting at open houses. Real estate agents work under a broker.A Realtor® is a real estate agent or salesperson who is a member of the Natio...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
How Agents Help Each OtherTeamwork Makes the Dream WorkI do not see other agents as competition; instead, I view them as potential customers for my unique listings. They often know of prospective buyers who might be interested in my properties. With each new home I list, I make an effort to think of agents who may have the right buyers for it. I inform them when new properties are coming on the market and, if they're interested, I give them a heads-up just before the listings go live.Agents can be an agent's best friend when it comes to selling real estate. There are numerous stories of how cooperating brokers help each other sell their listings.Of course, this is just one approach among many. My properties are listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and receive weekly full-color p...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
My new MCM listing features a unique wood-burning fireplace that doesn’t require wood to burn. Instead, it utilizes ethanol, a clean-burning, renewable fuel that allows my creative owners to enjoy a cozy fire any time without the traditional hassle of firewood. One of the standout benefits of using ethanol is that it produces no soot and no ash. This means you can enjoy the ambiance and warmth of a fire without the messy cleanup that comes with burning wood. There’s no need to carry logs or deal with smoke that can linger indoors because Ethanol fires generate very little smoke, making them an excellent choice for those who want a clean indoor atmosphere.Using an ethanol fireplace is incredibly simple. Just fill the insert with fuel, ignite it, and you’re ready to enjoy a beautiful flam...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
3506 Gardenview RdStevenson Nestled in a serene setting, this Mid Century Modern (MCM) home is a remarkable blend of style and functionality. With five bedrooms and three full baths, it beautifully showcases the essence of MCM design, featuring iconic elements reminiscent of renowned designers like Herman Miller and Knoll.Upon entering, you're greeted by expansive glass walls that create a seamless connection to the outside. The living room opens up to a large deck, offering stunning views of the immaculate landscaping and the inviting heated pool complete with round jacuzzi. This space is designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The kitchen is a standout feature, having been highlighted in Chesapeake Home Living magazine.  It boasts solid white oak cabinets, exquisitely painted ...
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