Odenton Maryland Living

An Agents Emotions DO NOT Belong in the Negotiations

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 04:32:18 -0800

This is a big pet peeve of mine. I believe as agents, we are paid for our knowledge and experience with our local markets and negotiations should be based on facts not emotions. Buyers and sellers are understandably emotional, but as agents, we should be the calm 'port in the storm'. Agents who rely on yelling, whining, or similar techniques in their negotiations can end up blowing a deal for their client and only come off as unprofessional. The definition of negotiation is- "A discussion to come to an agreement." It is not about winning or losing, it is about coming to a mutual decision that works for both buyer and seller (not the agent)! I completely understand that sometimes our emotions get the best of us. However, when we are negotiating on our clients behalf it's our job to leave the emotions at home. We can't take on the home sale or purchase as though it's our own and start getting upset about the actions of the other side. Our sellers and buyers will get emotional. That's part of the deal and in the end one of the reasons they chose to hire us to represent them. They are going to look to us for sound, level headed advice on whether to counter an offer and with what terms. If we get angry and start name calling the home buyer/seller or find ourselves in disbelief of an absurd offer or situation it not only makes us look tacky and unprofessional, but many times will cost our client. I know that when I hear an agent start getting agitated about terms in an offer that we're in for a long and difficult negotiation. I know that (s)he's going to take that offer to the buyer/seller and present it with a chip on their shoulder. It happened today, an agent was all huffy and puffy that my seller countered an offer closer to list price. The agent was whining (literally) about how the roof was 11 years old and the yard wasn't fenced. We as professionals should present our clients with facts that help put them in the best possible position when negotiating. If the other party doesn't agree with those terms maybe the sale won't work out. I have had buyers and sellers choose to walk away because either side couldn't come to terms. No matter what happens we must remain the unwavering professional and keep our emotions in check. Image courtesy of imagerymajestic / FreeDigitalPhotos.net Bryan Tobiason, RealtorIntegrity Driving ResultsRealty Executives of Kansas City913-735-5748 | 913-SELLS-4-Uwww.TobiasonRealty.com | www.KCHomeTours.comwww.Facebook.com/BryanTobiason | www.Twitter.com/ubet426 Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

It's a Seller's Market, Why Should I Use a Real Estate Agent?

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 04:52:33 -0800

It's a Seller's Market, Why Should I Use a Real Estate Agent? Hey, I watch HGTV too. I see exactly how easy they make buying (and thus by extension selling) your home look. As with many things, how it shows on TV isn't exactly how it plays out in real life. There are many and varied pitfalls that can come up during the sale of your home. Having a good agent on your side with a road map and a plan of attack, is the best investment you can make for yourself. Many people do not understand what a good Realtor® does for you when selling a home whether that be in Frisco Texas, San Jose California or Tampa Florida. When you think about it what is so hard about selling a home in a seller's market? I mean really all a Realtor does it get you into the MLS and then it pretty much sells itself. And for this you want a 6% fee and sometimes even more? I think I should go into Real Estate. These words are not uncommon to hear from consumers, although you will not hear them from my clients. Financially Beneficial The number one reason people chose to not sell a home with a real estate agent was to avoid the fee or commission. 46% of people who were selling a home by themselves (FSBO) did so to avoid the fee or commission. In fact only 9% of home sales were sold by people without the assistance of a real estate agent. When looking back at FSBO sales versus agent assisted sales the NAR found that the average sale price for FSBO was $184,000 compare to $230,000 for an agent assisted sale. In addition, almost 1/3 of the FSBO sellers did nothing to market their homes and more than 2/3rds of them did nothing to attract or provide an incentive for buyers. The bottom line is that in most cases, selling your home with a real estate agent will allow you to net more profit than if you sold it yourself. This is considering that you will sell your home faster and at a higher price than you will on your own. When you start considering the additional softer costs, such as reduced risk, time spent working on the process, and the harder costs of your own personal advertising and marekting, then the business case to utilize a Realtor gets even stronger. What does a Realtor do? A Realtor will help you with the three Ps of selling a home: Preparation, Pricing and Previewing. Without these three Ps, you may end up with many other FSBOs who had a different three Ps: piss poor performance. Preparation A good Realtor will guide you on how to properly prepare your home for sale. You will be provided information and recommendations on changes you may want to consider with regards to staging, curb appeal, de-cluttering, repairs, etc... These are the things that can easily make the difference from someone getting out of there car to look at your property or simply driving on ahead to the next home for sale. Pricing Please realize that a Realtor wants to get you top dollar. The more you sell the home for the more money a Realtor makes. However, over pricing a home does no one any good at all. Be aware of the Realtor who promises to sell your home at any price. The market and your preparation will determine the price you will most likely sell your home. Understanding the current market conditions, knowing the local inventory (your competitors,) and being aware of how much homes are appraising for in the current area will be of more value to you properly pricing your home than anything else. We do this for a living and track this information daily, do you? Previewing Are you ready and comfortable to let strangers enter your house? Are you sure you want that next person who answers your Craigslist advertisement in your home? Previewing your home is part of selling your home. If you can't show it you can't sell it. How much do you know about qualifying buyers? Are they pre-approved or pre-qualified? What is the difference? How do I protect my belongings while I have people traipsing through my home? These are all questions a Realtor knows how to address and many more. Marketing Yes the MLS is one area to market a home but there are many others. A good Realtor is going to arrange to have your home photographed at no expense to you. They will create website(s) or at least pages for websites where your home will be advertised not only locally but nationally and internationally. They have access to agent networks inside their offices as well as through their own personal networks. Many of them understand how to utilize social media and other areas to attract buyers to your home. There is a cost to this infrastructure which as a seller you do not pay. In fact you do not pay for anything unless your home sells. Documentation In today's world, real estate is no stranger to litigation. When selling your own home you are not excused from knowing all the legal forms and processes that must be followed. How would you like it if three years after you sold your home the buyer came back and sued you for something you inadvertently left off your seller's disclosure (if you don't know what that is then you certainly want a Realtor to help you.) Coordination and Scheduling Understanding the home buying and selling process is very important to protect you financially and legally. Scheduling appropriate meetings and calls to keep the entire process moving forward is another area where a Realtor should excel. Coordinating the many different parties involved including other agents, principals, brokers, inspectors, tradesman, title, lenders, and the list goes on and on is a daunting task. Are you ready to take on that responsibility perhaps multiple times if for any reason the first offer does not pan out? Real Estate is Easy Do you still think real estate is easy? Sure in a seller's market it may appear that this is an easy business, but maybe it seems easy because you saw a Realtor simply made it look effortless. Yes there are those of us who can ensure you have a great experience and make it lok easy. Yes there are a lot of moving parts and yes each one of these offers different risks and rewards. Without the real estate agent you get to do all these things on your own. Are you ready to tackle this challenge? For more on selling your home you may want to look at the another post. However, before you think of taking this challenge on yourself, remember what we are trying to answer: Why should I use a real estate agent in a seller's market? Remember what you are trying to achieve: you want to sell your home for the most profit in the least amount of time with minimal risk. I think you just answered the question. My client's get to see this firsthand. They work with me because the know when you are one of my client's: Your Success is My Focus Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Recycling Christmas trees and Wreaths in Anne Arundel County

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 03:29:44 -0800

Recycling Christmas trees and Wreaths in Anne Arundel County It's that time of year again, when Anne Arundel County residents are looking to dispose of past their prime Christmas Trees, Wreaths, and Garland. Did you know that residents of Anne Arundel County can put their trees, wreaths, and garland out as yard waste on your scheduled recycling day? The Anne Arundel County Waste Management website states: Christmas trees must be free from all lights, ornamentation and tree bags. Only natural trees will be collected. Tall trees should be cut in half in order to fit into the collection truck. Some Caveats: Items longer than four feet should be cut into smaller sections Trees and wreaths (like other yard waste), should not be put in yellow recycling bins but instead either placed beside the bins or put into plastic bags marked clearly with an "X" to distinguish them from the trash. You are also welcome to take the items directly to the county landfill which is free to Anne Arundel County residents. Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

13312 Katrinka Drive in Bowie MD - A new listing in Highbridge Estates

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 07:05:11 -0800

13312 Katrinka Drive in Bowie MD - A new listing in Highbridge EstatesLarge home great for entertaining

OverviewMapsPhotosMarket Stats

$450,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

4 Bedrooms3 Bathrooms1 Partial BathroomInterior: 4,296 sqftLot: 0.46 acre(s)

Location

13312 Katrinka DriveBowie, MD 20720USA

Christie Lane CravenLong & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster Real Estate

Our recent listingsLarge home great for entertainingCustom Home on three acres in Gambrills

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Buyers Should Think Twice Before Declining a Home Inspection

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 03:46:09 -0800

I have never had a buyer decline getting a home inspection, even in the case of new construction and properties that are sold "as-is". There is simply too much a stake to find out AFTER you have bought the house that there are huge defects that you can't afford to deal with. Inspection contingencies are there to protect buyers and for the cost of about $300, you can save yourself a ton of money AND heartache! If you are lookingto buy a home, give me a call and I will explain and help you through the home inspection and contingency process. Buyers Should Think Twice Before Declining a Home InspectionBuying a home is probably one of the largest investments we make so why are some buyers taking risks when purchasing a home?When there’s financing involved with the purchase of the home, there’s a cost to obtain a mortgage which Cash buyers don’t have to worry about.Appraisal is necessary with financing but also an option for Cash buyers.Some lenders require a new survey, some don’t, again this is an option given to Cash buyers as well.Home Inspection is an option for both Cash as well as to buyers who are financing. When I work with buyers, I have all these “optional” items listed and get their initials and signatures next to each item whether they accept or decline it in the case they forget.I sold a home in June 2013 representing out of state buyers who were in the area in May 2013. I found a home in the neighborhood they were looking for, it was an REO/Bank Owned home being sold “As Is”. As I do for all my buyers, I did advise them to get a home inspection which they declined at the time and signed off on the addendum stating they declined a home inspection. They just moved into the home and discovered they needed a new A/C, emailed me to let me know it was my fault for not getting a home inspection. I did forward them the email communication along with the addendum showing they DECLINED an appraisal, home warranty, home inspection and a survey.NO RESPONSE from them!As Realtors®, we all have to cover our assets!

Beth Atalay, Broker/Owner Cam Realty and Property Management 407-929-1852www.wheretoliveinorlando.com BethAtalay@Gmail.comYour Orlando Agent - Where to Live in Orlando

Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Condos and Town homes for sale in Odenton, MD

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 07:04:41 -0700

Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Learn the Secrets to Investor Flips and Why Flips May Not Close

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 03:41:42 -0700

Though Melissa is in California, her point rings true here in the Maryland area as well. I always advise investor clients to speak with a good loan officer to see what potential pitfalls they might encounter. The other problem you see in "Flip" homes is poor quality work. If you are going to 'flip" it, do it right. Potential buyers will notice shoddy workmanship and it will come out in the home inspection as well.What Is an Investor Flip? An investor flip (also called a flip) is a home or property purchased with the intent of the buyer to make profit, generally by making changes to the property and reselling it as soon as possible. When the recession hit around 2008 and many homes were in foreclosure or foreclosed, investor flips were en vogue. That’s because home prices were very low. Investors, particularly cash buyers, were able to take advantage of the high property inventory and the low prices in order to purchase properties for below market value, make some changes, and then resell the same property (with upgrades) for an almost immediate profit. Investor flips are still popular, but there are often times when investor flips don’t close. That is, the investor purchases the property, fixes it in just a few quick weeks, and then faces challenges in selling the property to a buyer obtaining a loan—especially if the investor has owned the property for less than 90 days. There are certain rules with respect to valuation on some loans that may not permit the buyer to purchase the home if it has been owned by the previous buyer for less than 90 days. Some Statistics on Investor Flips According to Data Quick, home flipping is still alive and well throughout five counties in Southern California. Across the region, the ratio of homes flipped compared to total sales has already surpassed pre-recession levels. The percentage of homes flipped was 7% in February, and 5.6% in June. The number of Southern California home flips declined slightly in June to 1,194. It is interesting to note that the number of investor flips has hovered above 1,000 for the last 11 months, compared with fewer than 200 during low points of the recession. In May of 2013, investors flipped 1,377 homes: a level not seen since the height of the housing boom, when investors turned over 1,394 homes in June 2005. Investors in Los Angeles County flipped 419 homes in June, about 150 fewer than the peak. Orange County investors flipped 133 homes in June, down about 60 from the peak in that county. San Diego County investors recently broke housing-boom records, flipping 301 houses in May. Melissa Zavala BROKER/REALTOR® ● CA DRE #01324959 BROADPOINT PROPERTIES, INC. 760.839.3838 Search San Diego County Homes For Sale | Search Riverside County Homes For Sale Transaction Coordinator Services | Short Sale Expeditor Negotiation Services If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me in these other communities? Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Custom Home on three acres in Gambrills, MD

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 07:37:50 -0700

Custom Home on three acres in Gambrills, MD

OverviewMapsPhotosNeighborhood

$500,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

5 Bedrooms4 Bathrooms1 Partial BathroomLot: 3.07 acre(s)

Location

2120 Johns Hopkins RdGambrills, MD 21054USATo get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane CravenLong & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings Custom Home on three acres in Gambrills

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

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

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:49:23 -0700

1441 Dicus Mill Rd in Severn, MD Open house Saturday and Sunday March 16th and 17th. Noon until 2pmCustom Home on Over Two Acres!

Overview Maps Photos

$650,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

6 Bedrooms4 BathroomsLot: 2.00 acre(s)

Location

1441 Dicus Mill RdSevern, MD 21144USATo get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane CravenLong & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listingsCustom Home on Over Two Acres!Arden on the Severn River

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Why do HOA fees differ?

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:46:16 -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. 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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 07:25:33 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 03:59:56 -0700

Arden on the Severn River

Overview Maps Photos

$350,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

5 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms

Location

1002 Tudor DriveCrownsville, MD 21032USA To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven Long & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings Arden on the Severn RiverIn the heart of Crofton...Enjoy your own beach this Summer!Gorgeous home in Misty Ridge

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

Odenton homes available for under $300,000

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Fri, 25 May 2012 06:45:05 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:42:50 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 05:14:11 -0700

Crofton Gem!

Overview Maps Photos

$475,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms2 Partial Bathrooms

Location

1815 Stark DriveCrofton, MD 21114USA 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 PhilpottLong & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster Real Estate Inc

Our recent listings Crofton Gem only ten years young!Waterfront home with Private DockUNDER CONTRACT -Located on a quiet Cul-de-sac 1714 Long Tree Ct. in SevernRENTED - Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of OdentonGorgeous home in Misty Ridge

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

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

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 03:24:18 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:34:19 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:09:09 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:44:47 -0800

Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of Odenton

Overview Maps Photos

$2,100

Single Family Home

Main Features

3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Partial Bathroom

Location

538 Williamsburg LaneOdenton, MD 21113USA To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven Long & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster

Our recent listings Updated Rancher for rent in the heart of OdentonGorgeous home in Misty RidgeWell maintained Town HomeEnd unit Townhome in Piney OrchardIn the heart of Crofton...

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A day in the life...

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 10:20:49 -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!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 EstateColdwell Banker Residential Real Estate, 2929 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 847.425.3779 Cell: 847.924.3313 Email: Almay@aol.comEvanston 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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:36:05 -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 Bedrooms3 Bathrooms1 Partial BathroomLot: 0.18 acre(s)

Location

1714 Long Tree CourtSevern, MD 21144USA To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Christie Lane Craven Long & Foster(410) 451-6211Christie.Craven@longandfoster.comhttp://welcomehomemaryland.com Listed by: Long & Foster Real Estate

Our recent listings End unit Townhome in Piney OrchardGreat Piney Orchard Town HomeLocated on a quiet Cul-de-sac 1714 Long Tree Ct. in Severn

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Christie Lane Craven Odenton, MD

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

Christie Lane Craven, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:03:00 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:22:35 -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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:53:00 -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. Add Some Cushion to Your Closing DateAdding 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/SanAntonioRealtorWayne Johnson 18756 Stone Oak ParkwaySan Antonio Texas 78258Coldwell 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, Your Anne Arundel County Agent (Blackwell Real Estate ) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:45:47 -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