Odenton Maryland Living

1441 Dicus Mill Rd in Severn, MD Open house this weekend

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:49:23 -0700

1441 Dicus Mill Rd in Severn, MD

Open house Saturday and Sunday March 16th and 17th. Noon until 2pm

Custom Home on Over Two Acres!

Overview
Maps
Photos

$650,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

6 Bedrooms
4 Bathrooms
Lot: 2.00 acre(s)

Location

1441 Dicus Mill Rd
Severn, MD 21144
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven

Long & Foster
(410) 451-6211
Christie.Craven@longandfoster.com
http://welcomehomemaryland.com

Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings

Custom Home on Over Two Acres!
Arden on the Severn River

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Why do HOA fees differ?

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:46:16 -0800

There are many reasons why HOA and condo fees differ from neighborhood to neighborhood and Joan touches on some good ones here. It is also important to note that those fees vary within the neighborhood as well as they are often based on the square footage of the unit. The bigger the unit or house, the bigger the fees! Be sure to check and see what your HOA fees DON'T cover. Things such as pool membership, community center rentals, and golf course fees are often cost extra.

Via Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate-720-231-6373 (Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate):

Why do HOA fees differ?

Why do HOA fees differ so much between complexes?    Multi-family buildings include a few items in their monthly fee such as water/sewer, trash, snow removal, grounds maintenance of common areas, exterior building maintenance with roof and insurance of the exterior building.    Some don't pay for water/sewer and some do not pay for exterior building with roof.    Some complexes have amenities lika pool and clubhouse with fitness center.

Each complex has a Board of Directors that reviews the budget.   This is when they review contracts with vendors who do the snow removal and also the maintenance of the grass/sprinkler systems.      When there have been many storms that produced hail or tornadoes and roofs had to be replaced/repaired, these fees are factored into the monthly fee.    To keep a complex in good condition, the buildings must be painted every few years, parking lots need to be repaired which will be factored into this fee.

As buildings age, the fees increase to maintain older buildings.    As elevators age, these are expensive to repair/replace, as well as a boiler and the duct work or plumbing the building may be responsible for.

If you are contemplating purchasing in a multi-family complex, review the budget.     There are many documents you have the right to review to include the budget.   I would encourage new buyers to get involved in their HOA, go to the meetings and know what rules are being reviewed, and what issues are being discussed.

When you have major repairs needed that are not in the annual budget (such as roof replacements) you will see special assessments included in the monthly fee.     These are generally only assessed for a one year period.

You will see HOA fees ranging from $150-$600 (approximately) for multi-family complexes, and newer housing developments have HOA fees that include only grounds maintenance for common areas and trash removal for single detached family homes.

When looking for a multi-family unit, you have choices between townhomes, low-rise condos and high-rise condos.

If you need more information by complex, please give me a call.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc.

GRI, ABR, CRS, CNE, e-Pro

Broker/Owner

Joan@JoanCox.com

                                                 720-231-6373 (cell)

Denver Real Estate

A Denver Metropolitan Realtor

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Broker Open Wednesday Sept. 26th 11:30 to 1:30

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:25:33 -0700

Broker Open Wednesday Sept. 26th 11:30 to 1:30

Preview two great homes in Sunrise Beach and enter to win a $50 gas card!
1002 Tudor Drive in Crownsville
998 Miller Circle in Crownsville

Enjoy appetizers and lunch while previewing two great single family homes in water privileged Sunrise Beach/Arden on the Severn. Leave your business card at both homes for a chance to win a $50 gas card.

Hosted by Christie Lane Craven and Al Friedman of Long & Foster

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Water Privileged home in Arden on the Severn

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 10:59:56 -0700

Arden on the Severn River

Overview
Maps
Photos

$350,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

5 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

Location

1002 Tudor Drive
Crownsville, MD 21032
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven

Long & Foster
(410) 451-6211
Christie.Craven@longandfoster.com
http://welcomehomemaryland.com

Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings

Arden on the Severn River
In the heart of Crofton...
Enjoy your own beach this Summer!
Gorgeous home in Misty Ridge

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Odenton homes available for under $300,000

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:45:05 -0700

Odenton homes available for under $300,000

Below is a map of all the homes currently available in Odenton listed at $300,000 or less. Click on the house icons for more information on the property. If you or someone you know is looking to move to this great city that I, myself, call home please give me a call for more information. I would be happy to help assist you!

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Anne Arundel County Housing Expo

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:42:50 -0700

Anne Arundel County Housing Expo

Arundel Community Development Services is holding a housing expo on Saturday, April 21st, from 10am to 2pm

Win $500 in closing cost help toward the purchase of a home!

Learn valuable information for buying or renovating an Anne Arundel County home. Local professionals will be on hand to speak to and you can attend workshops in several areas of interest. Lenders, real estate agents, and housing counselors will also be on hand to answer questions.

The expo is planned to be fun for the whole family so bring the kids as their will be activities for the children as well as refreshments and door prizes.

The class schedule is as follows:

9:30 - Introduction to Home Ownership

10:15 - Understanding your Credit Report and Score

10:50 - Tenants Rights and Responsibilities

11:25 - The ABC's of Financial Literacy

11:55 - The Ins and Outs of Purchasing Short Sales and Foreclosures

12:30 - Introduction to Home Ownership

The expo will be held at Marley Middle School located at 10 Davis Court in Glen Burnie, MD 21060. For more information, you can reach ACDS at 410-222-7600

If you are unable to attend the expo, but are still interested on information on any of the topics, please feel free to contact me at 410-451-6211. We frequently do home buying seminars and have a variety of helpful information on hand.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

1815 Stark Drive in Crofton, MD Just Listed!

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:14:11 -0700

Crofton Gem!

Overview
Maps
Photos

$475,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
2 Partial Bathrooms

Location

1815 Stark Drive
Crofton, MD 21114
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven

Listed in conjunction with Al Friedman and Cindy Philpott

Long & Foster
(410) 451-6211
Christie.Craven@longandfoster.com
http://welcomehomemaryland.com

Listed by: Long & Foster Real Estate Inc

Our recent listings

Crofton Gem only ten years young!
Waterfront home with Private Dock
UNDER CONTRACT -Located on a quiet Cul-de-sac 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn
RENTED - Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of Odenton
Gorgeous home in Misty Ridge

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Preparing your home to sell - Kick Clutter to the Curb!

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:24:18 -0800

Preparing your home to sell - Kick Clutter to the Curb!

When potential buyers start coming through your home, they are trying envision if the house is a good fit for them... and their stuff. Going through your house and de-cluttering will not only show your future buyer that there is plenty of room for their things, it will also help you when it comes times to pack up and move.

It may be easiest to do a room at a time. Use three containers- one for trash, one for goodwill donations, and one for storage.

Many goodwill organizations will come pick up items at your house. Purple Heart is one such organization. Click on the link for pickup days, to schedule a pick up, or see what items they do and don't take. Don't feel you need to wait until you've done all the rooms before getting those donations out of there. As soon as you get a good group of things together, drop it off or schedule a pickup. You'll be much less tempted to end up hanging on to an item if you get rid of it right away. Craigslist and Odenton Freecycle are other good alternatives for ditching things you no longer need.

I understand that often you are moving because you and your family have outgrown the space. If you have items that you do need but perhaps not right at this moment, consider renting storage space. There are many storage companies in the area and they often have specials. If you need to keep the items closer to home, consider PODS storage. These are the portable storage containers the company will deliver to your house. You can either keep them until you are ready to have them delivered to your next home, or have them picked back up and stored at a facility. One caveat to having them on site though is it still may give buyers the idea there isn't enough storage space. Also, depending on where you have them placed, they may take up valuable driveway space or show up in your listing pictures.

Some final things to consider:

Go through ALL the areas of the house- garage, attic, closets, those boxes you haven't unpacked since you moved in (we all have those!)

Don't just stuff things in closets and cabinets. Buyers will open up those closets and get a bad impression when a pile of stuff comes raining down on their head or they can't get the door closed again!

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Social Media Explained

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:34:19 -0800

I saw this and couldn't resist sharing.. Social Media 101...

Missing a few things in my opinion:

Klout: My Klout score of 37 reflects the fact that I am not very good at conveying to my friends that I like donuts

Reddit: Did you hear Apple is supposedly releasing iDonuts S in white?

Myspace: Everyone else is eating and enjoying donuts but I like prefer talking to myself.

Image from: Social Media Explained a la @ThreeShipsMediahttp://instagr.am/p/nm695/

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Blog 2011 Odenton Real Estate Year in Review - Single Family Homes

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:09:09 -0800

2011 Odenton Real Estate Year in Review - Single Family Homes

Here's a re-cap of how the Odenton single family real estate market did in 2011. Odenton saw 76 single family homes sold in 2011 ranging in price from $36,000 for a home on Collins Avenue to a $655,00 property on Star Stella Drive.

There are some things you need to keep in mind when looking at these (and other figures.) The lows and highs are just that, extremes. So while the $36,000 is low, the next lowest sale price was $105,000- quite a jump. These super low amounts often come from foreclosures, or "handy man specials" being sold as-is. Looking at the $655,000 property, only two other properties of the 76 where sold for over $600k. Let's break them down to give you a better picture:

So you can see that the majority of the sales fell in the $200k to $400k range. The average Odenton single family home was priced at $359,569 when it went under contract and averaged a net sales price of $339,368. Sellers provided buyers with an average of $6,438 in closing cost assistance and homes stayed on the market an average of 95 days.

This is down a bit from the 2010 year end stats where the average single family home was priced at $386,022 when it went under contract and averaged a net sales price of $365,079. An average of $6,857 in closing assistance was given and the average number of days a home stayed on the market was 100.

I think we will see the average days on market continue to hover near the triple digits due to skewing of the numbers by short sales and to some extent foreclosures, both of which can take a long time to get bank approval for offers on.

Finally, to give you some greater perspective, I'm including a chart that tracks the highs and lows of the past ten years. So, while prices are down from their heydays of 2005 - 2006, they are up from where they were in 2001.

These figures are only ranges and averages, so if you are thinking of buying or selling, give me a call and we can discuss specifics.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of Odenton

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:44:47 -0800

Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of Odenton

Overview
Maps
Photos

$2,100

Single Family Home

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom

Location

538 Williamsburg Lane
Odenton, MD 21113
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven

Long & Foster
(410) 451-6211
Christie.Craven@longandfoster.com
http://welcomehomemaryland.com

Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings

Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of Odenton
Gorgeous home in Misty Ridge
Well maintained Town Home
End unit Townhome in Piney Orchard
In the heart of Crofton...

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

A day in the life...

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 18:20:49 -0800

Now here's a new perspective I hadn't thought of! I think this would make an excellent children's book for the kiddos who's parents are selling or buying a house!

Via Alan May, Coldwell Banker Realtor® Evanston, Illinois Homes for Sale (Evanston Condos & Evanston Single Family Homes):

Day 1: The Realtor came over today, and he brought a photographer with him. First they moved some of my furnishings around a little (it tickled), opened my drapes, and had the photographer dude take photos. I smiled my bestest smile.

Day 3: The pictures came in... I look radiant. I heard that my owner (sniff, they're trying to get rid of me) is having a "cleaning crew" come over the weekend. I'm a little nervous.

Day 5: The cleaning crew was here... it hurt a little, they used that horrid vacuum under the beds, and behind cabinets... but they also put a few oil-scented plug-ins around... I smell better. While the cleaning crew was here, a painter came by and touched up a few areas where I wasn't looking my best. And the landscaper (Antonio... he's dreamy!)... came by and instead of just mowing my lawn, he trimmed all my hedges, and added a few spots of colour around my yard. I feel fresh and clean.

Day 7: There were a bunch of Realtors who came by this morning. They tromped through the house, and looked at all of my rooms. Some of them even made their way down to my basement. They made some suggestions, and were on their way within a half hour. I'm exhausted.

Day 8: I'm on the market... I'm on the market!! There are beautiful photos of me all over the internet... And there's a sign stuck in my front yard that says "FOR SALE".

Day 14: We've had lots of strangers showing up. Often when my owners aren't home. This makes me really nervous. The first time that happened, I got so excited, I accidentally set off the security alarm. Everyone got really excited, but I felt better when the police showed up and made the Realtor show her credentials.

Day 23: I'm totally exhausted by over three weeks of having to look pretty... but I've heard a rumour that someone has written an offer on me. I hope it was the couple with the little boy. He was so cute, and he liked my room with the blue paint. It would be perfect for him, and I'd love having him here.

Day 24: They say I'm sold. It was the family with the little boy, and they have a little girl, too... and a dog. I don't like dogs... they scratch my floors and they chew on my doors and casements. I'm sad, and nervous.

Day 25: The family that bought me came by for their inspection. They didn't bring the little boy or his sister, but they brought this mean man who told them all the things that are wrong with me. He said that my furnace is ailing... and that I have a leak in my foundation... the nerve!!

Day 26: My family has agreed to repair the foundation, and they're going to give the new family a credit to repair my furnace... whew! I knew I liked them. I'm going to miss them.

Day 29: The foundation crack has been filled. I didn't even realize that my foundation was getting wet, but it feels so much better now.

Day 60: My family has moved out. A big truck arrived, and they loaded all of their things in the truck, and drove away. She stood on my porch for more than a few minutes and cried. She touched my brick, tenderly. I'll miss her... I'm sad.

Day 65: The new family came for something called a "walk-through", and they brought both of the children... they were so excited to see me... and they loved the swingset that my current owners put in the yard for their kids when they were young. They talked about their plans for me. I really tried not to like them, but they're going to repaint me, top-to-bottom. They're going to bring in a brand-new kitchen, and update both bathrooms. I think we're going to get along just fine.

ALAN MAY, Realtor®
Specializing in Evanston Real Estate and North Shore Real Estate
Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, 2929 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
847.425.3779 Cell: 847.924.3313 Email: Almay@aol.com
Evanston Real Estate & North Shore Real Estate

Do not copy the content of this blog, without first contacting the author for permission. Reblogging is allowed. All other use is strictly prohibited without express permission from me. This blog is tag-resistant... Do not tag me, I don't participate in tagging, no MeMe's don't even think about it

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

1714 Long Tree Ct in Severn, MD Open House Sunday 1/8 from 12 - 2pm

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:36:05 -0800

Make a video of your own at Animoto.

Located on a quiet Cul-de-sac 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn

Overview
Maps
Photos
Video
Open House

$375,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Lot: 0.18 acre(s)

Location

1714 Long Tree Court
Severn, MD 21144
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven

Long & Foster
(410) 451-6211
Christie.Craven@longandfoster.com
http://welcomehomemaryland.com

Listed by: Long & Foster Real Estate

Our recent listings

End unit Townhome in Piney Orchard
Great Piney Orchard Town Home
Located on a quiet Cul-de-sac 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Odenton / Crofton Toys for Tots and Harvest for the Hungry Drive

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:03:00 -0800

Odenton / Crofton Toys for Tots and Harvest for the Hungry Drive

Our Crofton Long & Foster office is still collecting for both Toys for Tots and Harvest for the Hungry.

Please bring your new un-wrapped toys or monetary donations by the office for Toys for Tots to share the joy this holiday season. We will be collecting toys up until December 21st.

We are also still collecting food for Harvest for the Hungry. We are trying to help fill our local food banks and will accept donations for non perishable (not expired) food up until the new year. Any thing you can do to help will be greatly appreciated!

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Letters straight from the North Pole

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:22:35 -0800

Letters straight from the North Pole

Only a few days left to get those Christmas letters stamped with a North Pole postmark

For that extra special touch to your holiday letters and greeting cards, you can address and stamp them as you normally would, and then put them in a bigger envelope and mail them to various postmasters. The most popular is the North Pole. Address the outer envelope to:

North Pole Christmas Cancellation

Postmaster

4141 Postmark Drive

Anchorage, AK 99530-99998

To ensure delivery by Christmas, letters need to be received at the North Pole no later than December 15th, so get to it!

There are also several other towns and cities in the US with names that are holiday related who will stamp your Christmas cards, but according to this article - http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/small-towns-fear-losing-holiday-postmarks-15116048#.TuGKObJFu7s get them while you can. Despite raising the cost of stamps in January, the post office is proposing the close of many rural offices.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Add Some Cushion to Your Closing Date

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:53:00 -0800

We are seeing a trend of delayed settlements here in our Crofton, MD office as well. They have all revolved around underwriting and banks being much more cautious... to the point of craziness at times. All is not lost though. Not only can I help you find the perfect home to meet your needs, but I can also recommend some all stars in the loan officer department. Doug Janvrin of Home First Mortgage ( 410-263-8676 ) is our go-to guy. He works tirelessly to insure our buyers get the best deal possible and always makes himself available. He is great at explaining the loan process We've worked with a couple of stand out loan officers recently when we've represented the sellers side as well. Kelly Hammond of Wells Fargo ( 410-384-2667 ) definitely knows how to get it done and is the only seller side settlement we've closed on time recently. James Thompson of America Home Key ( 202-409-8100 ) can turn a loan from pre-approval to close faster than a speeding bullet and answered my phone calls even when it was later in the evening. To get to settlement on time, pick a good loan officer. That can't completely rule out the craziness of the underwriters, but if they are good they know what issues to anticipate from underwriting and can do a preemptive strike to ensure closing happens on time.

Via Wayne Johnson-San Antonio Homes For Sale San Antonio Realtor (Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper Realtors®):

Add Some Cushion to Your Closing Date

Adding some additional cushion to your closing date is becoming more of an issue. Over the past three months none of my closings has occurred on the dates agreed to between Buyers and Sellers.

None of the negotiated dates was a quick turn around. In the case of my Buyers, we always checked with the Loan Officers before submitting the offer to get a sense as to appropriate time frames and used their guidance.

On the Seller's side we have also suffered delays in Closing. Again these are regular closing times between Acceptance Date and proposed Closing Dates.

I remember a time when you could depend on Closing on the agreed to Closing Date. But not now. I'm not sure if this is unique to San Antonio, or just me.

Its happened enough that I have new Closing Cautions for clients:

Buyers

We will check with your Lender, if you are getting a mortgage to finance your purchase, to determine when they will have funds available to buy the property.

The Closing Date is negotiated between the Buyer and Seller, but the transaction does not happen until your Lender provides the funds.

When the Lender asks you for information, either verbally or documentation, provide it quickly, completely, and to the location to which they specify. Follow up the next day to confirm they got it.

Keep good notes on when, who, and what you talk about with your Lender and its representatives. You will likely have contact with a Loan Officer, and a Loan Processor.

The Lender may or may not perform as promised in number 1, above. The Lender is not party to the Buyers and Sellers contract so you have little leverage to get them to perform in a timely manner.

Do not plan on getting keys and moving in on Closing Day. If it happens and you do Close on time, Be Happy. (New construction home purchases do typically close on time if you are using the Builder's Lender. Funny how that works.)

If you rely on Closing on time and there is a delay, all expenses such as additional fees from the moving company for truck time, storage fees, unexpected hotel/motel and living expenses are your responsibility. Your Lender will likely not pick up the tab.

Sellers

We will determine during the negotiations how your property will be paid for. That's why we get a Pre-Approval from the Lender with the Offer. If the proposed Closing Date looks too good to be true, it probably is. Be pessimistic but hopeful of whatever date is agreed to.

The Buyer wants this date to be met just as badly as you.

I hate to say this but, the Lender can pull out for any reason, or no reason. They are in the lending business to make loans so since they provided the Pre-Approval we have to believe they want the deal to happen.

Do not make any plans that cannot be modifyed based on this transaction happening as planned. I don't think it wise to schedule your departure for trip either the day of or even the day after Closing.

If you need the proceeds from selling this house before you buy another, have the correct contingency language in place to prevent penalties in the event this transaction is delayed.

Mail-Out Closings can occur if you cannot come to the Title Company handling the transaction. However, that will delay the transaction since the Title Company will require original signatures, and notarized documents back in their office before funding can occur. Plan on a minimum two days for this even using an Over Night Delivery Service.

Of course we are used to the obvious delays due to negotiated repairs or renegotiations during the Option Period. Those delays are obvious and dealt with in the here and now. Its the last minute delays that are most troubling in today's environment.

I've heard some of the reasons for delays lately as being an increase in the number of refinancing, reductions in staff at some lenders, and frequent changes in underwriting requirements. I'm not in the know on that. I just know that building in some cushion time is a good idea for both Buyers and Sellers in today's market.

My Networks:http://rlty.me/SanAntonioRealtor

Wayne Johnson
18756 Stone Oak Parkway
San Antonio Texas 78258

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper Realtors®
Texas Real Estate License # 0566780

wjohnson@cbharper.com

Wayne-Johnson.com

210.483.6329 (Tel)
210.483.4729 (Fax)

Texas Law requires all real estate licensees to give the following information about brokerage services: http://www.trec.state.tx.us/pdf/contracts/OP-K.pdf

©All rights reserved, December 2011, Adding Some Cushion to Your Closing Date

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

It's not too late to add this Crofton, MD town home to your holiday wish list!

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:45:47 -0800

It's not too late to add this Crofton, MD town home to your holiday wish list! I'll be holding an Open House at 1716 Gaffney Ct Sunday 12/11/11 from 12 - 2pm.

This three bedroom one and half bath town house in the heart of Crofton has generous sized bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a separate dining room off the kitchen. The finished basement opens to the fenced rear yard and offers plenty of space for storage.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Remodeling Projects that Show Good Returns

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:33:37 -0800

Becky's got some great points. A kitchen remodel (within reason) will still give you great bang for your buck. New windows and doors are a good bet too, especially with the tax credits still in play. If you want to know what to do to get your house on the market or just how NOT to over re-model now and regret it a few years down the road when you sell, give me a call.

Via Becky Riggar (Keller Williams Realty, Cenla Partners):

When you are selling your home you want to get the most out of the dollars you spend on your remodeling jobs.

According to msn.com these are the 5 remodeling projects that have the best return.

1. Replace exterior siding. This shows a major improvement in curb appeal and shows a average whopping retun of 78%!!

2. Replacing an exterior door is inexpensive, but pays back around 73%.

3. Mid-range attic bonus room remodel. More adult children are moving back home and baby boomers are once more looking for more space. This remodeling job is more extensive, but the returns average 72.5%.

4. Kitchen remodel still ranks in the top 5. The returns come in around 72% when you give the kitchen a facelift by changing out hardware, replacing countertops, and sink.

5. Midrange garage door replacement will net you 71%. By replacing your existing garage door you add curb appeal and functionality which appeals to all homebuyers.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Rentals available in the Piney Orchard Community of Odenton, MD

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:19:19 -0800

Rentals available in the Piney Orchard Community of Odenton, MD

Piney Orchard

is an attractive community with many amenities. Several community pools, a fitness center, nature trails, and plenty of green spaces make it no surprise this area has a hot rental market. Below are the current rental offerings in

Piney Orchard of Odenton, MD

If you are interested in more information on any of these properties or would like to arrange a showing, please contact me an I'll be happy to help.

Price Address Bedroom/Full Baths/Half Baths

$1,400

2450 APPLE BLOSSOM LN #301 2/2/0

$1,550

2454 APPLE BLOSSOM LN #304 2/2/0

$1,550

8645 WILLOW LEAF LN 2/2/1

$1,550

694 WINDING STREAM WAY #201 2/2/0

$1,600

8626 ASPEN GROVE CT #8626 2/2/0

$1,600

8635 WILLOW LEAF LN 2/2/1

$1,600

2658 CEDAR ELM DR 3/2/1

$1,600

2402 CHESTNUT TERRACE CT #101 2/2/0

$1,700

8709 SPRING BROOK WAY 3/2/1

$1,750

2619 CEDAR ELM DR 3/2/1

$1,800

741 DAYSPRING DR 3/2/1

$1,825

8621 FLUTTERING LEAF TRL #403 2/2/0

$2,150

2832 PISCATAWAY RUN DR 3/2/1

$2,195

2329 SANDY WALK WAY 3/2/1

$2,300

8708 LITTLE PATUXENT CT 3/2/1

$2,300

1034 MEANDERING WAY 3/2/1

$2,300

709 SUMMERTIME DR 3/3/1

$2,350

2668 STREAMVIEW DR 3/2/1

$2,400

2623 SOUR DOCK DR 4/3/1

$2,400

2431 WINDING RIDGE RD 3/2/2

$2,600

848 THICKET CT 3/3/1

*Disclaimer - All information is obtained through MRIS and entered by their respective listing agents. It is deemed reliable but should be verified. *

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Four Seasons in Gambrills, MD Annual Holiday Light and Seasonal Display Contest

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:10:06 -0800

Four Seasons in Gambrills, MD Annual Holiday Light and Seasonal Display Contest

It's time again for the Community of Four Seasons to dust off those snazzy lights and lawn ornaments for a shot at bragging rights and a prize- $75 for 1st place, $50 for 2nd, and $35 for third. Any residence of the original Four Seasons Community Association is eligible to enter. Four Seasons Elementary School staff and PTA will once again be judging and they are looking for Originality, Holiday Spirit, and Curb Appeal.

The first round of judging will take place from December 11 to December 16 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. From that round, 10 semi-finalists will be chosen. From there the judges will go back out for a second look at those semi-finalist from December 19 to December 21st. The winners will be announced on December 23rd and pictures of the top three will be displayed on the Four Seasons Community Association website - www.fsca.net . Best of luck to you all, I'm looking forward to seeing your displays!

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

2011 December Blogging Challenge - Day 2

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 00:53:22 -0800

Today for my business I...

renewed and edited some Postlets
talked a nervous buyer through some home inspection repairs
continued my quest to get an elevation certificate for buyer clients who need to get a flood insurance quote
got a ratified contract on a foreclosure and worked toward getting utilites on so we can do inspection
pinned down a settlement date for another client
introduced myself to a buyer's new loan officer (fingers crossed)
worked some more on the designs of my holiday cards (I have several different ones for different things and all are hand designed
showed a model home to buyers who are thinking of going the new construction route
confirmed some RSVPs to our holiday party
got a spreadsheet template from another AR member that they use to generate seller reports showing the activity their home is receiving on the Internet
watched an IMSD freebie three minute video on over coming objections to listing near the holidays
did some research on expired and worked on an outline of a letter to send out (this is a new one for me, I've never gone after expireds before.)
researched info for an upcoming localism post

On the downside, it is my week to cook and on my quest to as closely duplicate a Ruth's Chris steak as possible I burned the heck out of my finger on a 700+ degree grill. The steak was good though so in the end I'm going to mark that in the win catagory! :)

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

"2011 December Challenge" Day 1

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:46:49 -0800

This is my first challenge so I hope I do it right. :)

For day 1 I contacted a builder for additional information on an upcoming development I want to write a blog on, posted a listing on my facebook page, and added a listing to Craigslist. I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone else is doing.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Odenton, MD Real Estate Market October 2011

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 17:26:08 -0800

Odenton, MD Real Estate Market - October 2011
During this general nationwide housing market downturn, the Odenton, MD market is holding it's own.

31 Odenton, MD houses sold in October of 2011 up from 25 this time last year. The overall average sold price has decreased slightly from $275,916 to $217,747 (this includes all types of homes- mobile,townhouse,condo, duplex, and detached single family.) However, the detached single family home price average has risen from $313,800 last year to $364,000 this year. Foreclosures accounted for 5 of the 31 Odenton home sales in October of 2011 and short sales 3. I believe this is because buyers are discovering that short sales and foreclosures with their long response times and lack of seller repairs aren't really the bargain they may seem.

New listing are down this October over last year 44 verses 50 last October. This is good news for people serious about selling their home. Coming into the holiday time of year, many people pull their home off of the market due to family obligations, entertaining, travel, and the holidays. If you can coordinate it with your schedule, this time of year is excellent to have your home on the market due to a lesser amount of competition. Buyers are still actively looking at this time, with an eye to the holiday breaks giving them extra time off of work for moving.

I have market reports for a variety of areas. If you are curious as to what your home is worth and want facts not guesses give me a call. If you are in the market to buy but need advice call me and I can help you out.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

Open House Saturday 9/23 at 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn, MD

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:11:42 -0700

Open House Saturday 9/23 at 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn, MD

This lovely four bedroom, three and a half bath home sits in the middle of a cul-de-sac and has a great flow with an open kitchen (with office area) and family room. On either side is the dining room and living room between which are the stair to the second floor. Upstairs there are four bedrooms. The master suite as a soaking tub, separate shower, and skylights. It also has an adjoining door to a second bedroom, perfect for a nursery. In the upstairs hall, there is a craft closet between two of the bedrooms- perfect for the kids! The fully finished basement is being used as a guest room at the moment but has plenty of room for their pool table and wet bar as well as having a full bath. Off of the family room, their is a nice large deck that has steps to the above ground pool. All of this offered for only $375,000 and including a one year HMS Home Warranty. Be sure to stop by and check out this great home Saturday 9/23 between 12 and 2pm and if you can't make it then, give me a call at 410-353-7623 for more information.

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD

The "Big Six" Home Selling Factors

Christie Lane Craven (Long & Foster) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:31:33 -0700

Karen does a great job of laying out the foundation of a successful sale. I would add one more to the factors a seller controls- Accessability. In order for someone to want to buy your house, they usually need to be able to get in to see it. With all the inventory on the market now, if buyers have a list of 7 or 8 homes they'd like to see, and yours is too hard to show (too much advanced notice required, limited showing times, denying appointments) they will simply skip yours and move on to the rest. Don't take yourself out of the running before you even get started!

Via Karen Kruschka - Prince William, Fairfax ,Stafford County VA Real Estate Service (RE/MAX Olympic Realty):

Although they can be stated in different ways there are only six factors that affect the sale of a home.

It is important for you, as the seller, to understand who or what has control over them and how they impact on each other.

You control 3 of the 6

The Market controls 2 of the 6

Your REALTOR® controls 1 of the 6

YOU Control
1. Price - You determine list price for your home. However, a list price above the market for homes similar to yours will impact negatively on buyer interest in making an offer. Your REALTOR® will review price history with you to assist you in making a list price determination.

2. Terms - Buyers have requirements just as sellers do. Your willingness to respect them and be willing to negotiate which terms will be acceptable to both parties can have a very positive impact. Price and Terms will usually be negotiated at the same time.

3. Condition - How well you have maintained the home will influence both your price and length of time to sell. The pool of buyers who are willing to make major repairs is much smaller than the pool of buyers who want a home that has been well maintained.

THE MARKET Controls
4. Timing - Economic conditions operate independently of price, terms and property condition. Similarly, seasons and weather factors can affect the time it takes to sell a home.

5. Competition - The number of homes on the market most certainly bears heavily on your ability to sell your home on a timely basis.

YOUR REALTOR® Controls
6. Promotion - From entry into the Multiple Listing System, to internet marketing and any other programs your agent will have an impact on your home sale.

CONCLUSION
No one of the six factors alone controls the timely sale of your home. Your agent should provide you with

Feedback from prospects who have visited your home

Changes in market conditions

Your willingness or ability to make adjustments in price, terms or condition based on the information provided will be the final determinant as to how quickly your home will sell.

+++++++++++++++++++

My Team has 35 years experience in Woodbridge, Dumfries, Manassas, Bristow, Gainesville, Haymarket Prince William County

”Experience Isn’t Expensive – It’s PRICELESS”

If you plan to buy or sell a Woodbridge or other Prince William County home or property contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Prince William County

Karen Kruschka's Web Site

Popular Prince William County subdivisions to consider are Eagles Pointe, Wellington, River Falls, Saratoga Hunt, Winding Creek, Lake Ridge, Westridge, Old Bridge Estates, Brittany, Montclair, Ashland, Port Potomac, Potomac Club, Rollingwood Village, Lake Terrapin, Lake Side and Meadowbrook Woods

Christie Lane Craven

Odenton, MD