ONLINE RELOCATION PACKAGE

Ready to buy a home, but can't sell?

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 06:07:49 -0500

REAL ESTATE Q & A

Q. How can I take advantage of today's great interest rates and home prices, when I can't sell my current home?

A. If your housing needs have changed, welcome to the club. That's a perfectly normal situation that has motivated home sellers and buyers for decades.

In today's market, however, it's not always easy (or even possible) to sell one residence and use the equity to purchase another. That doesn't necessarily mean you're trapped forever in a home that no longer fits your shrinking or growing household... not if you can rent that home for enough to cover your monthly mortgage payment.

Have you considered these other options for your down payment and closing costs?

VA Financing - Little or no money down for qualified veterans, as well as active duty military. Even if you've already used your VA eligibility in the past, you may be able to use it now. My husband and I have used VA several times for refinancing and purchasing.
FHA Financing - Only 3.5% down for qualified buyers, within the local loan limit. This is very popular in today's market.
Closing Help - FHA and VA allow sellers to pay up to six percent towards "actual costs" of the loan. Some Conventional loans allow sellers to pay up to three percent of the borrower's closing costs. With so many homes on the market, many sellers are willing to do this.
Retirement Plan - In some cases, you may be able to borrow your own money previously contributed to a retirement plan. Check with your plan administrator to find out if this is possible and to determine any penalties or tax obligations that accompany this action. One of my clients is using this resource to close on his first home in January, and the seller is paying most of his closing costs.
Life Insurance - You may be able to liquidate the cash value of your life insurance. Check with your insurer to find out if this is an option for you.
Refinance your current home - Even if you can't sell your current home in today's market, you may be able to liquidate some of your equity for down payment and closing on another home by refinancing. For some homeowners, refinancing will lower the payment to improve cash flow, even if you don't take cash out.
Relatives - Even if you can't refinance your current home or use your retirement plan or life insurance for down payment and closing, your parents or another relative may be in a position to do so. It doesn't hurt to ask.
Owner Financing - The sellers of some homes on the market may be willing to hold a second trust for all or part of your down payment/closing costs. My mother recently reminded me that she and my dad sold their home with owner financing during a previous real estate meltdown.

Don't assume you can't get a Conventional loan with minimal down payment. 95% loans are making a comeback in the marketplace, and some well-qualified buyers are taking advantage of them to avoid the high FHA insurance.

If your housing needs have changed, you aren't necessarily trapped in your current home by today's struggling real estate market. This may be perfect timing for you to make a move.

DISCLAIMER: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
________________________________________________________________________________________

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

My First Washington Post Blog Is Up! (Pat Kennedy)

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 21:47:07 -0500

Pat Kennedy was published in the Washington Post. Wow!

Take a look at her post, and be sure to click through to her article on the new Washington Post blog, Where We Live. Then, please comment on her post, not mine. (...unless you want to comment on both.)

Via Patricia Kennedy (Evers & Company Realtors):

The new Washington Post blog. Where We Live is up and running, and this morning they published my first post, a market report for Georgetown, one of my favorite DC neighborhoods.

There is also a post that Cati Bannier wrote yesterday, and Cindy Jones will probably be up there by day's end.

My favorite part is the link they threw in to both my Active Rain profile and Capitol Homes, my Wordpress blog that I have to start posting more stuff on!

I'd love it if you'd drop by to read it, and I would really, really love it if you'd leave a comment (they ask you to register, and it's free).

So, thanks again to you guys in Seattle who created this place and made it easy for a major news organization to find us!

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Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Electronic Signatures Gaining Acceptance

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:41:01 -0500

CROFTON, MARYLAND: REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Q. I want to sell my Crofton home, but I live in California. Will you mail the paperwork to me? Fax it?

A. Paperwork that required mailing 10 years ago and scanning/emailing just 2 years ago can now be signed and sent electronically. Let me explain…

________________________

Your autograph is no longer necessary on real estate sales contracts, addenda, and other documents used to buy, sell, and lease real estate. E-signing is the latest item on a long list of technology innovations since I started in this business. I love it!

The e-Sign Act (2000) and Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (1999) made electronic signatures binding, but there are still a few hold-outs in the banking world that won't accept digital signatures. In these situations, many people use electronic signing in their initial negotiations and then follow up with a copy signed the old fashioned way – with pen and paper – after the agreement is complete.

However, FHA is on board (FHA Letter) and so is the National Association of REALTORS (NAR White Paper), as well as many lenders.

Here's how e-signing works:

1. Your agent goes online to an e-signature company (such as Authentisign or Docusign) to create a new signing. The first step is to name the signing, such as “123 Crofton Parkway - Lease.”

2. Your agent will identify each participant in the new signing by entering their name, email address, role in the transaction, and whether they are a signer, reviewer, or copy recipient.

3. The document (or two or three…) will be uploaded by your agent. It's done the same way you add an attachment to email.

4. Your agent will then go through the document to identify each place where a signature or initials are needed. It's a simple “drag and drop” process. If cross-outs or written changes are needed in the document, your agent will do that electronically and create an initial box next to it.

5. After reviewing the document to make sure nothing has been overlooked, your agent will go to the final step – i.e., sending it to you, accompanied by an email message with any comments or instructions.

6. You receive an email containing the document, along with step by step instructions, and submit it for authentication.

7. After your document is authenticated by the e-signature copy, it is forwarded to the next party. Once all parties have signed, the final copy will be sent to anyone identified as a reviewer (such as your agent) and a copy will be delivered to everyone listed in Step 2.

8. Now all parties have an electronic file of the completed document, which you can save as a PDF file and print for a hard copy.

My clients have used electronic signing for leases, listings, contracts, and random follow-up documents such as the home inspection addendum. Obviously it's ideal for people who are out of the area, but even clients who live in the greater Crofton area love the convenience.

Don't be surprised if there's an electronic signature in your future, especially if you buy or sell a home. This ranks right up there with fax machines, cell phones, online listing data, and electronic lock boxes… just a few of the other technology innovations that have made life easier for consumers and real estate agents alike.

Posted by the author to Focus on Crofton on 11/18/11

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Operation Christmas Comes to Crofton MD

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:35:06 -0400

Take those elf hats out of your closet… it’s time again for Operation Christmas!

We prepared over 100 holiday gift bags for deployed troops last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of Crofton area residents, including many of the agents at Long & Foster REALTORS, and it's that time of year again.

We already have many donations for this year, without even asking, but we still need the following items on or before October 19:

Assorted toiletries, paperback books, white no-logo socks, 5½ x 8½ inch puzzle books, toys appropriate for a 20-yr. old, tissue packs or wipes, unique gift items (paperback books, LED reading lights, manicure kit, sunglasses, disposable camera) and healthy snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, etc.

You can drop them off at Long & Foster in Crofton, or send a check to Margaret Woda at Long & Foster REALTORS, 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 for us to purchase gift items on your behalf.

Several elves (Long & Foster agents) will help fill the bags and pack them for shipping on October 21. Everything will be well organized in advance by Crofton Village Garden Club members, so it shouldn’t take longer than two hours, max. If there are enough donations to ship more than 8 cartons, we'll schedule a second date the following week.

We expect to ship eight cartons of 16 filled gift bags to Operation Give as our contribution to "Operation Christmas Stocking." They cover the cost of our shipping to their warehouse in Utah and shipping to the troops. This is one of several ongoing operations they have throughout the year, so take a look at their website.

Don't have TIME or MONEY, but want to say "thank you" to our troops by participating in Operation Christmas? Use this as an excuse to touch base with former clients. Post it on your Facebook page. Your sphere of influence may surprise you!

For more information, contact Margaret Woda (301) 346-2923 or mwoda@MRIS.com.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Kickoff Today for Navy Football

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 07:52:50 -0400

Kickoff for the 2011 season and the Navy vs. Delaware game is 3:30 p.m. today at the Navy Marine Corps Stadium on Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis.

Parking at the stadium is reserved for those with seasonal parking passes, but there's plenty of free parking for the rest of us at satellite lots. The most convenient location for Crofton residents is the Harry S. Truman Park & Ride, off Riva Road.

Free shuttle service begins five (5) hours prior to kickoff and drops riders off in front of the Navy Ticket Office at the Class of 1953 Pavilion. Shuttles run about 20 minutes apart. After the game, you can pick up the shuttle at the same spot, beginning at the start of the fourth quarter until 90 minutes after the game. Nothing like door to door service! Chances are good that you'll walk less between your car and the gate than folks who park at the stadium itself.

Crofton residents who have never attended a Navy game should do so at least once. Pre-game pageantry as the Brigade of Midshipmen march into the stadium and fill the field, one hour prior to the game, is a sight you won't soon forget. Even if you're not a football fan, per se, you might become a Navy Football fan - just for the game-day experience!

Reserved seating is just $35 for today's game, or you can get "standing room only" tickets for the grassy hill overlooking the stadium at $20 for adults and $12 for kids. Buy Navy football tickets HERE. Some games are sold out, including most "away" games, so don't miss your chance to experience Navy Football today!

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Crofton MD Makes Top 100 Best Places to Live

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:21:26 -0400

The CNN Money annual list of the Best Places to Live 2011 includes Crofton MD at #82.

Most people in Crofton and the greater Crofton area would agree that our community is a “Best Place to Live,” but Money has some stats to back up their claim.

Here is the CNN Money comparison of Crofton with the average for all “best places” on their list:

In my experience, the primary reasons most people choose to live in Crofton and the surrounding area are not reflected in these statistics.

They include recreational opportunities (parks, golf, bowling, movie theaters), public resources (libraries, museums, and arts venues), commuting convenience (international airports, rail, and Interstate highways), nearby employment opportunities (D.C., Baltimore and Annapolis), well-maintained neighborhoods in various price ranges, local and regional shopping and dining options, places of worship, and the highly involved residents who fuel our many community organizations.

These benefits of living in Crofton can't be easily measured, but they are priceless!

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

For Golfers Relocating to Anne Arundel County Maryland

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 22:17:56 -0500

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

First a little golf trivia...

As a golfer, I'm sure you're familiar with the customary RED TEES for women, WHITE TEES for men, and BLUE TEES for Championship play. This system was actually the brainchild of Frank Emmet, Director of the District of Columbia Golf Association's junior activities in the 1920's and a member of the USGA Junior Championship Committee. But Frank Emmet's legacy reached beyond this to many generations of golfers in this area with his mantra On the links, and off the streets*. My entire family still benefits today from this philosophy and his passion for encouraging children to learn the game of golf.

My brothers and I participated in the Emmet-founded Junior Golfers of Washington when we were adolescents and teens. My own children did, too, competing against other kids from the greater Washington area at some of Maryland's top golf courses such as Congressional, Columbia, Manor, Argyle, Kenwood, Bethesda and Woodmont Country Clubs, as well as courses in Northern Virginia. What great opportunities we enjoyed, thanks to the legacy of this one man. (And, when my husband and I watch golf on TV, we can honestly claim our boys held their own, competing as teenagers against some of today's greats - Tiger Woods, Phil Michelson, Lee Jansen, Rocco Mediate and others.)

While Frank Emmet pioneered organized junior golf in this area (and the nation), thousands of other volunteers have insured the continued popularity of junior golf since then. Today's kids are still On the links, and off the streets* at neighborhood golf courses in Anne Arundel County, literally walking out the back doors of their homes to play at Bay Hills in Arnold, Crofton Country Club and Walden Golf Course, both in Crofton, and Chartwell Golf & Country Club in Severna Park.

If you're a golfer or golfer wanna be, relocating to Anne Arundel County to work at Fort Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, or the U.S. Naval Academy, you will have many options. Whether you play for recreation or competition, you will want to check out the courses on this list. I recommend you call or visit the clubs for more information and make arrangements to play a round at each before choosing one to join.

Annapolis Golf Club
2638 Carrollton Rd
Annapolis, MD 21401
Applewood Course at Courses at Fort Meade, The
6800 Taylor Ave
Fort Meade, MD 20755
Bay Hills Golf Club
545 Bay Hills Dr
Arnold, MD 21012
Chartwell Golf & Country Club
1 Chartwell Dr
Severna Park, MD 21146
Compass Pointe Golf Courses
9010 Ft Smallwood Rd
Pasadena, MD 21122
Crofton Country Club
1691 Crofton Pkwy
Crofton, MD 21114
Eisenhower Golf Course
1576 Generals Highway
Crownsville, MD 21032
Heritage Harbour Golf Club
875 Harry S Truman Pkwy
Annapolis, MD 21401
Old South Country Club
699 Marlboro Rd
Lothian, MD 20711
Parks Course at Fort Meade
6800 Taylor Ave
Fort Meade, MD 20755
Renditions Golf Grand Slam Experience
1380 W Central Ave
Davidsonville, MD 21035
Sherwood Forest Golf Course
134 Sherwood Forest Rd
Sherwood Forest, MD 21405
South River Golf Links
3451 Soloman\'s Island Rd
Edgewater, MD 21037
United States Naval Academy Golf Club
64 Greenbury Point Rd
Annapolis, MD 21402
Walden Golf Club
1500 Riedel Rd
Crofton, MD 21114

Of course, this list doesn't include the many other courses within a half hour of Anne Arundel County - in Howard, Baltimore, Prince George's and Queen Anne Counties. For an aerial view of Maryland golf course, check out www.GolfFlyover.com. To check out homes in golf course communties, contact me at your convenience.

If golf is important in your life, I recommend you start your home search in Crofton, where my children learned to play and where there are two fine courses. It's a great place to live - and living in a golf course community will encourage your own kids to be On the links, and off the streets*. Who knows, if they get an early start with the game, I might be watching the Masters on TV someday and saying about one of the players, "I helped his parents find a home when they relocated to Anne Arundel County."

If you enjoyed reading this, you might like Crofton Real Estate - Tee it Up and another article about Golf at Andrews Air Force Base, in nearby Prince George's County.

(Note: Golf is the Woda family sport. L to R: my husband Larry, daughter Susan, and son Steve at the University of Maryland driving range. I took a break to shoot this photo.)

* I've been unable to find verification that those are Frank Emmet's exact words, but this is something I heard credited to him when I was growing up and again at various awards banquets we attended when our children competed in local junior tournaments. If those were not Frank's "exact" words, it was his general philosophy.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Crofton in Photos - Swann Park

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 19:43:46 -0500

Our grandchildren love to visit Back Lake Park when we're watching them. It's located about a block from our house on Swinburne Avenue, adjacent to the 12th hole of Crofton Country Club.

It always bring back memories for us to watch them throwing sticks into the pond or playing on the slide because we brought their dad and his siblings to the same park when they were small. The equipment has been replaced and the park been renamed after Tom and Barbara Swann, but it's not much different than it was three decades ago.

When you live in Crofton MD, chances are you'll build similar memories for your family at Swann Park, Bell-Branch Athletic complex and Crofton Park.

Welcome to Crofton!

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Watermelon? I thought Maryland is for Crabs!

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 12:01:01 -0400

Your real estate connection for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, Northrop Grumman, BWI and the U.S. Naval Academy

"Maryland is for Crabs" - Who hasn't heard that slogan, even beyond Maryland?

Apparently, if some folks get their way, it may also be "Maryland is for Watermelon" -

A friendly rivalry between Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, who says "there is no beter watermelon anywhere in the country than those grown in Maryland," and Delaware Governor Ruth Ann Minner, who says "Except those grown in Delaware" has evolved into the MAR-DELicious campaign.

Maryland and Delaware Departments of Agriculture and the University of Delaware have partnered to create this promotion. Local grocers including Giant, Superfresh, Whole Foods, Acme, Food Lion and Weis Markets are among those that will carry and identify MAR-DELicious watermelon. You can learn more about this promotion by reading last week's press release from the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Watermelon won't be the first to step on those crab claws; others already share the limelight in Maryland:

The Oyster State - Oyster fisheries in Maryland promote this slogan
The Queen State - A result of Maryland being named after Queen Henrietta Maria
The Monument State - Probably a reference to President John Quincy Adams' comments about the monuments he saw during a visit to Baltimore in 1827
The Free State - An indication of Maryland's political position opposing prohibition in the 1920's
The Cockade State - Coined during the Revolutionary War in the King's Handbook regarding the cockades worn by Maryland soldiers
The Old Line State - Refers to the dividing line between land grants given by Lord Penn and Lord Baltimore

It will be interesing to see if watermelon really do earn a place on this diverse list of monikers. Somehow, nothing else seems to have quite the same ring as "Maryland is for Crabs".

More interesting reading about Maryland and Watermelons:

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Condo owners alert...

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 09:48:01 -0400

It's up to YOU, each and every condo owner, to stay involved in your condo association - at least by paying your dues in a timely manner and being an active participant, if not a volunteer leader.

The covenants and bylaws of some condo associations may not permit changes to the budget without a favorable vote by a quorum of property owners - this includes expenses for maintenance and capitol improvements, as well as any dreaded dues increases. Maintaining the status quo, then, is the only option when residents don't vote for and pay the actual cost of maintaining a condo commuunity.

It's only a matter of time until buildings need painting, roofs need replacing, decks need repairings... If apathy is the mood of residents in your community, you and your community eventually will have major issues to face. This occurs in communities all around the country, as volunteer leaders of condo association seek solutions - costing them time and money, personally - while other residents complain and threaten to sue them. Often overwhelmed by the task at hand, these volunteer leaders may turn to professionals, companies that specialize in managing condo and hoa associations.

A professional management company usually has the experience, resources, and network to look at a condo association objectively - both the finances and the physical condition of the community. It then becomes their unpleasant task to share the truth, Residents may pay for condo repairs. This story illustrates what happens when a large number of owners don't pay their dues, don't participate in their condo association.

In Maryland, there is a strong disclosure law regarding condominiums; all condo buyers have an opportunity to review association documents, budget, and outstanding maintenance items and lawsuits in a "re-sale package" prescribed by law and purchased by Sellers from their association. It is important to read these documents - often an overwhelming task because of their bulk - and then to jump into the association with both feet and stay actively involved as long as you own a unit.

How does this impact you as a condo owner when you're ready to sell? If your condo association is not maintaining your community, you may have to dig into your own pockets for needed repairs to your own unit so it will be attractive to buyers. One of my clients recently sold her condo in the community mentioned in that article, and she hired a licensed contractor for deck repairs, painting and other maintenance items that one might expect Association dues to cover. And, if your state has a condo disclosure law, it may or may not be adequate to comply with that law. Be sure you discuss with your listing agent the advisability of disclosing information about the condo association, beyond meeting state disclosure requirements. This may be considered a "material fact".

Looking to buy or sell a condo in the D.C. / Baltimore / Annapolis triangle? Let me help! I've been helping condo buyers and sellers in this area for over 30 years, and it would be a privilege to help you now.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

How to Say Thank You to a Military Spouse

Fri, 06 May 2011 09:19:19 -0400

"Thank you" to all military spouses on this Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

Did you know that May 6 was declared Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan? Most Americans are pretty good about supporting our active-duty military, but it's easy to overlook the challenges faced every day by a military spouse.

Aside from the emotional ups and downs of loneliness and constant concern for their spouse, there are practical matters a military spouse encounters daily...like 24-7 parenting without anyone to help with the kids, or the yard, or health care or... Well, the list goes on endlessly.

'Been there, 'done that, and I remember.

So take a minute right now to think about any military spouses in your family, your client/customer database, or your sphere of influence and make a note to call or write today and say "Thank you for your service".

Here are a few other things you might do to honor them on Military Spouse Appreciation Day - or any day.

Ten ways you can thank a military spouse :

Spend an hour or two of your time watching their small children so they can have some a lone time for errands, a nap, or catching up on bills.
Go for a walk with them and talk - I remember going to the grocery store just to talk with the check-out person.
Invite them for a cup of coffee at your home or a local bagel shop.
Send flowers - or better yet, take them.
Share a bottle of wine.
Offer to take their photo or make a video for them to send overseas to their deployed spouse.
Go shopping together.
Invite him or her (and kids) to join your family for a cookout.
If their spouse is not currently deployed, offer to babysit so they can have an adults-only dinner out.
Spread the word that today is Military Appreciation Day so many others will also say thank you.

If you own a small business, you may wish to offer a discount or small gift to military spouses today. Or better yet, every day.

I've had the opportunity to work with hundreds of military families during my years in real estate, and I always feel so honored to earn their trust. Long after your home sale or purchase is over, I think about them - but I don't say "thank you" often enough.

So right here, right now, let me say to my military clients, neighbors, and relatives, that I think military spouses are pretty special people. And I thank you for your service and sacrifices that make it possible for your spouse to protect our nation.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

The U.S. Naval Academy Grounds Are Beautiful in Spring

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 08:50:59 -0400

Living in Maryland near the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) has it perks... especially if you or your spouse happen to be active-duty or retired military and you have occasion to visit The Yard, as we often do.

This past week we took a lunch break during a very busy day and headed down to the Academy Club. It was such a beautiful spring day that we ended up walking around and snapping photos like a couple of tourists before heading back to work.

If you're planning a visit to D.C. or Maryland, don't forget to include time for a tour of Annapolis and the USNA in your schedule. It's just 33 miles east of D.C. and 30 miles south of Baltimore. Guided tours are available with various Annapolis tour companies, or through the Academy's own Visitor's Center, just inside Gate One on King George Street. It's open 9-5 daily.

You can park downtown and walk to the Academy, if you don't have a DOD sticker on your car, enjoying the ambiance of Historic Annapolis along the way. If you do have a DOD or handicap sticker on your car, you may drive onto the grounds and park just inside GATE ONE. Since this is a military facility, anyone over 16 entering The Yard must have photo ID and your cars/bags are subject to search.

P.S. - There's a formal dress parade of the Brigade of Midshipmen on Wednesday, April 20 at 4 p.m. If you live in the area and would like to attend, contact me so we can meet up in the reviewing stands.

NOTE: You'll be seeing my photos in the coming weeks and months, but this one is a stock photo taken at this time of year, compliments of the U.S. Navy

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Anne Arundel County Rolls out the Red Carpet for Active Adults

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 07:58:24 -0500

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

If you're relocating to Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and you've reached the ripe old age of 55, you'll find no shortage of new and resale communities built just for you. Of course, you can live anywhere, but you will enjoy options not available to people under 55 because many of Anne Arundel County's new home communities in the past few years have been developed with age restrictions.

Developers recognize the demand by empty-nesters for low-maintenance homes that offer elegant amenities, spacious floorplans, community amenities, and convenience to shopping. Coupling that consumer popularity with county building restrictions based upon availability of community services such as schools, Active Adult communities are springing up all over the county and they're all within a half hour of Northrop Grumman, Fort Meade, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy - barring any unforeseen traffic surprises.

Here are a few of them, both new and resale:

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES IN THE ANNAPOLIS AREA:

Acton Landing, From $560,000 - Brand new decorated condo model now open! Be among the few who will appreciate life in the only brand new home community built in downtown Historic Annapolis in 100 years.

Four Seasons at Saint Margaret's, From $299,999 - Located just off College Parkway; offers 2 bedroom/2 bath units as well as 3 bedroom/2 bath luxury floor plans. High-quality, low-maintenance lifestyle by K Hovnanian in exquisite surroundings. Garage and non-garage condominiums are available now. (pictured at right)

Hamlets Land, in Edgewater, From $339,900 - Garden-style buildings with garages, built in 2001. Most units are 2 bedrooms 2 baths with luxury appointments.

Heritage Harbor, From $240,000 - This was arguably the first Active Adult community in the area, and it's still one of the biggest and best, with its own golf course and a fabulous clubhouse complex. There are detached, attached, townhomes and highrise homes available in a location that's easily accessible to downtown Annapolis and commuting routes to both Baltimore and Washington. At this writing, there are 24 homes on the market ranging from garden style units in Broad Creek to detached homes with double garages in the $400's.

South River Colony, in Edgewater, From $470,000 - Actually there is just one on the market right now, at this or any price. It is an attached rancher with garage. Other models have sold in the upper $500's.

Stonecrest, From the high $500's - A community of detached homes by NV Homes, located off Bay Dale Drive in Annapolis, convenient to Route 50 for an easy commute to D.C. and Baltimore.

Vineyards of Annapolis, Price not published- Caruso Homes is building this community, off of Riva Road, featuring about 2 floorplan options. Features include brick fronts, 3-story sunroom extensions, 9' ceilings, and 42" kitchen cabinets.

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES IN THE CROFTON AREA, INCLUDING GAMBRILLS:

Carroll's Creek (Gambrills), Coming Soon -Carroll's Creek will consist of 162 active adult lifestyle homes, built by Centex, with nine elevator-accessed buildings that will surround a community pool, private clubhouse facility and onsite walking trails.

Crofton Colony (Crofton), From the $600's - Koch Homes built this wonderful community in 2002, so the landscaping is starting to mature and it is a beautiful neighborhood community; homes have high ceilings, open layouts, and the luxury trim and features for which Koch homes are known. (pictured at left)

The Village at Waugh Chapel, From $214,900 - Garden-style condos built in 2004 include some with secure elevators; literally overlooking the shopping and restaurant complex of the Village at Waugh Chapel. Talk about convenience!

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES IN THE MILLERSVILLE AREA:

Gateway Village, From $359,500 - New condo community of 90 units total. 8 floor plans to choose from including some with dens or formal dining rooms. Great standard features: 9' ceilings, hardwoods in foyer/kit; gourmet kit w/granite and cherry/maple cab; designer tile and granite in baths.

Shipley's Crossing, From $562,938- A gated community of 80 homes under construction now by Grayson Homes; villas with two-car garages, and some with first-floor master suite; 3500-sq.ft clubhouse with heated pool. Very convenient to BWI and the Baltimore. Price reflects $25,000 price reduction only with builder's preferred lender and title company.

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES IN ODENTON:

Cedar Ridge, From $264,900 - Almost new gated community in Piney Orchard, with lots of community amenities to enjoy including a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, nearby shopping and more. Garden-style buildings with elevator, garages, and lots of storage 2 and 3 bedroom models.

Gatherings at Piney Orchard, From $221,900 - 4 Story, Elevator Condominiums, by Beazer Homes, with your own private garage, this gated community features a private clubhouse, outdoor heated pool, tennis court and much more.

Hearthstone at Severn Crest, From $480,000 - Single-family one-level homes up to 4 bedrooms and up to 3 ½ baths, including spacious main-level owner's suites. Other sought-after features are hardwood flooring in the foyer and powder room, 9' ceilings, 42" kitchen cabinets, ceramic-tiled baths and upgraded siding.

Legacy at Eden Brook, From the Upper $200's -Elevator-equipped building set the standard for easy living. Some sought-after features in each condominium are the upgraded lighting fixtures, ceramic baths, 42" kitchen cabinets, 9 foot ceilings and much more!

Maple Ridge at Piney Orchard, From $400,000 - Luxury 26' and 28' wide, 2-car garage townhomes, some with first floor master suites!

ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES IN NORTH COUNTY:Osprey Landing, in Glen Burnie, From $474,900 - 45 homesites plus 87 more in Creekside at Osprey Landing. Detached homes by Grayson Homes in this gated community featuring 50 acres of green space, walking trails, and piers.

Sloop Cove Landing, in Pasadena, From the high $400's- Single family homes with first floor master suites, situatied on half-acre homesites. Elegant interior features include luxurious bath appointments, gourmet kitchens, energy-savers, and custom brick or stone front exteriors. (pictured at left)

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SOURCE: 50+ Communities (The Baltimore Sun), New Homes Guide, and MRIS. This information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Prices subject to change without notice. This post is not an endorsement of any community, builder, or individual property.

Whether one of these communities catches your eye, or several do, I'll be happy to help you
with further information for both resale and new homes.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Crofton MD Real Estate - Community Makes Money's "Top 100 Best Places to Live"

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 06:02:35 -0400

Crofton real estate is always desirable, but it may be even MORE attractive to folks who are looking for a home in Anne Arundel County now that Money has ranked Crofton in its Top 100 Best Places to Live 2007. Communities around the country were ranked for a variety of factors that impact quality of life including affordability, leisure activities, cultural options, job growth, health care access, commute time, and even the weather. Of course, that's no surprise to anyone who lives in Crofton - those are some of the reasons we chose this community as our home!

Other Maryland communities included on the list are Catonsville, Eldersburg, Elkridge, and Olney.

Check out the Crofton News Crier article about this topic
Free Maryland Travel Kit
More information about Crofton
Crofton real estate

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Can I Use HAP if My Underwater Property is Rented?

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 05:43:28 -0500

Q. I rented my Bowie MD home when I got PCS orders from Fort Meade to Fort Bragg because I couldn't sell it for enough to cover the mortgage. Now that my home is a rental property, will I still be eligible for the Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program known as HAP?

A. Yes, you can use HAP if the property is rented, provided it was your primary residence at the time you received PCS orders.

There are some additional requirements, as well:

Your permanent reassignment to a new duty station or home port must be outside a 50-mile radius of your former duty station or home port.
Your reassignment must have been ordered between 1 February 2006 and 30 September 2010.
Your property must have been purchased before 1 July 2006.
You must have a decline of at least a 10% home value from the date of purchase to date of sale.
You must not have previously received these benefit payments.

In addition to active duty military personnel with PCS orders, HAP is also available to some civilian government employees, surviving spouses of military personnel, and wounded military personnel.

The best way for you to confirm your HAP eligibility is to download the application packet and complete the application. Be sure to carefully read all instructions, complete your application, and then mail it to the HAP Field Office in Savannah, Georgia, the district responsible for Maryland. It's not necessary to wait until you have an offer on your home... in fact, it's a good idea to get started right away even if your home isn't on the market for sale yet.

You will need to know the current market value of your property, and that's where I come in... researching that information for you is a service I'm happy to provide without any cost or obligation. Contact me by phone (301-346-2923) or email (MWoda@mris.com) if you believe you may be eligible to sell your Maryland home with HAP.

The information in this blog post should not be construed as legal advice, since the author is not an attorney.
More information about HAP is available on the official website for the
Department of Defense Homeowner's Assistance Program.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
Check my references on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500