Potomac Luxury Homes

Better Than New Construction In Willerburn Acres In Potomac MD

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:32:08 -0700

Better Than New Construction In Willerburn Acres In Potomac MD

11718 Gainsborough Road, Potomac MD

This is a rare opportunity to purchase a custom, 2004 built home located on a 1.23 acre lot in close-in Potomac MD in the Willerburn Acres neighborhood. With over 11,000 sq. ft. of finished space there is something for everyone. The floor plan is open and allows for informal living as well as more extensive entertaining. High ceilings, beautiful crown moldings, natural stained hardwood floors on the first floor, oversized windows with great views are only a few of the special architectural features. The library is large with glass doors leading from the foyer. The dining room has a built-in buffet perfect for serving as well as great storage space. The “heart of the home” is the two story great room with wonderful coffered ceiling beams, and wall of built-ins flanking the gas fireplace and wall of glass open to the expansive backyard. Adjacent to the great room is a large gourmet kitchen with breakfast room which also opens to the backyard. This home has a gracious first floor master suite with an enormous closet and beautiful master bathroom. The upper level has four large bedrooms and two full baths. The lower level provides lots of additional space with recreation room, exercise room, sixth bedroom and fourth full bath plus plenty of storage space.

Take a virtual tour: http://www.homevisit.com/mlsTour?id=64990

This property is perfect for those looking for a level lot in a private setting. There is an attached two car garage and an additional detached two car garage with storage space above, perfect for outdoor equipment. The large driveway makes a great space for playing sports. Ideally located just off Seven Locks Road, churches and synagogues are in close proximity as is Cabin John Mall and Cabin John Park. Access to I-270 and I-495, downtown Washington, Silver Spring and Virginia are also easily accessible.

Offered privately for $2,295,000. Call The Schuman Team at 301-299-9598 to schedule a tour.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Great New Price at 1726 Crestview Dr. in Horizon Hill, Potomac Md

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:20:14 -0700

Great New Price of $817,500 for 1726 Crestview Drive in Horizon Hill neighborhood in Potomac Maryland

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to purchase a wonderful renovated and well-priced home at 1726 Crestview Drive. This charming painted white brick colonial has 2,574 square feet on 2 levels, another 1,287 square feet in the lower level and is ready for new owners!!! The floorplan is very user friendly including 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances & granite counters open to the breakfast room, pretty hardwood floors, family room and open living & dining rooms. Large mastersuite, sitting room & renovated bath + 3 additional bedrooms and renovated bath on the upper level. Lower level with recreation room, den and storage space. Large, flat back yard with professional landscaping, sport court, large patio and green space.

Click here to take a virtual tour: http://www.homevisit.com/mlsTour?id=64731

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this Horizon Hill home are Ritchie Park Elementary School, Julius West Middle School, and Richard Montgomery High School.

Would your like to see this Horizon Hill home in Potomac MD? Contact The Schuman Team at (301) 299-9598 to schedule a tour.

As always, visit searchpotomachomes.com to view a complete list of Potomac, Maryland real estate.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Missing Max Genshaft!!!

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 14:37:55 -0700

Missing Max Genshaft

Today's blog post is not about buyers, it's not about sellers or even about real estate. Today, I am writing about my family in Snowmass, Colorado.

Several months ago precisesly the morning of January 18th, 2013, I received a call that my cousins Ben & Alyssa Genshaft woke up to find their youngest son Max, only 17 months, had passed away in his crib. This was more than unexpected it was absolutely a HUGE shock to them and to all of their loved ones. Max wasn't sick when he went to bed? The autopsy didn't reveal much and so they are left without a specific reason why.

My entire family and extended family were at the funeral in Aspen Colorago except for me. I had committed to a Disney Cruise vacation with my husband's family the next day. It was very difficult not to be there to support them but I thought about little Max every single day.

The entire Aspen community rallied and continues to rally around Alyssa, Ben, Sophie and Eli in an unbelievable way. Click here to read the touching article that a friend of theirs wrote for The Denver Post about Max.

Max was an adorable baby. He looked just like his big brother Eli and his daddy, my cousin Ben. The first time I met Max he was 4 months old and was such a little guy. I was visiting my brother and sister-in-law in Denver for Thanksgiving and Ben & Alyssa flew in from Columbus to spend some time with my family. I love and will always cherish this picture of us from that day. He will be forever missed!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Potomac MD Homes For Sale Q & A: Pre-Listing Home Inspection

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 04:48:37 -0700

Potomac MD Homes For Sale Q & A: Pre-Listing Home Inspection

I have written about Pre-Listing Inspections before but lately I've received a few questions about the topic.

Q: What are the pros and cons of doing a Pre-Listing Home Inspection?

A: This is a great question and one that requires some consideration. In theory, your home should be in good condition when you put it on the market. Buyers never like buying a perfect looking home only to find out it's crumbling behind the scenes. Following are a few pros and cons of a Pre-Listing Home Inspection:

PROS

1. No surpirises during the home inspection phase of the contract.

2. You know the problems, you fix the problems and now you have piece of mind and little to no repairs to make.

3. You can hire who you want to make the repairs on your time frame and budget vs. having to meet contract deadlines or having to use specific contractors per the buyers request. One side note, you should use licensed contractors for all work done in your home if possible. The buyers are going to ask for receipts.

CONS

1. Whatever is found on the report you now must disclose in the Maryland Property Disclosure form ie. radon, mold, structural, electrical. Even if you choose to make the repairs, you still must disclose these to a prospective buyer. For example if your inspection revealed that there is a leak in a bathroom sink or a problem with the water supply to a particular room and you fix it, you still have to disclose it.

2. Not all home inspectors will find the same issues at a house. 3 different inspectors will come up with 3 different lists. So, your inspector may be the most thorough and now you have to disclose things.

Good luck and as always please contact The Schuman Team if you have further questions or are considering selling your home this year!!!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Open House in Horizon Hill in Potomac MD 3/31/13 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:06:13 -0700

Open House in Horizon Hill in Potomac MD 3/31/13 from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm

You won't want to miss seeing this stunning white brick colonial located at 1726 Crestview Drive in Horizon Hill in Potomac MD this weekend. It is listed at $839,000 and open this Sunday 3/31/13 from 1:30-4:00 pm.

Crestview has 2,574 square feet on 2 levels and another 1,287 square feet in the lower level. The floorplan is very user friendly including 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a lovely renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances & granite counters open to the breakfast room, hardwood floors, family room and open living & dining rooms. In the upper level, buyers will love the large mastersuite, sitting room & renovated bath + 3 additional bedrooms and renovated bath on the upper level. The lower level has a great recreation room, den and nice storage space. Large, flat back yard with professional landscaping, sport court, large patio and green space. This is the one you've been waiting for!

Click here to take the virtual tour: http://www.homevisit.com/mlsTour?id=64731

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this Horizon Hill home are Ritchie Park Elementary School, Julius West Middle School, and Richard Montgomery High School.

If you would like to schedule a tour contact The Schuman Team at (301) 299-9598 or stop by our OPEN HOUSE on 3/31/13 from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

As always, visit searchpotomachomes.com to view a complete list of Potomac, Maryland real estate.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Disclosure Forms: Q & A Potomac Homes For Sale

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 19:40:14 -0700

Disclosure Forms: Q & A Potomac Homes For Sale

The Schuman Team gets a lot of questions about the Maryland Disclosure form. I thought it would be helpful to remind sellers what they should disclose.

Q: We have lived in our Potomac MD home for 15 years, 14 years ago we found we had termites. We treated the area and have a biannual contract with a termite company. Do I need to disclose this information?

A: YES you need to disclose this information. The buyer may want to contact your Pest Control company to ask questions and even have them come out to inspect the property. The buyer may want to take over your contract. If you don't disclose this information, the buyers termite inspector may find evidence of past termite damage and question why this wasn't disclosed.

Q: If we put a new roof on our Potomac MD home 3 years ago, do we need do disclose water damage from a prior roof?

A: YES you need to disclose this information if you had water damage as a result of the leaky roof. If there was no water damage or problems as a result then NO you don't need to disclose. You will have the opportunity to note the age of the roof.

It is important to review all of the listing documents and later the contract documents to best understand your obligations as a seller of residential property in Maryland. The Property Disclosure/Disclaimer document is incredibly important. We encourage our sellers to disclose everything because it's law, the right thing to do and it helps build trust between buyers and sellers. Sellers are often afraid to disclose something that happened many years ago for fear no one will want to purchase their home. On the flip side we all know things come up in a home. If you've lived in your home 30 years and nothing is disclosed, that seems unrealistic. It's very challenging for the buyers when sellers forget or later remember something that should have been disclosed.There is an issue of what else did the seller forget to tell me??? The rule of thumb should be Disclose, Disclose, Disclose!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Cherry Blossoms A Sight To See In Washington DC

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:34:30 -0700

Cherry Blossoms A Sight To See In Washington DC

The Cherry Blossoms are so unbelievably gorgeous. If you have never been to DC in the spring you absolutely must see these incredible blossoms. There is a National Cherry Blossom Festival including a 10 mile Cherry Blossom run each spring that honors the long friendship between the US and Japan. This year the festival commences on March 20th through April 14th. Tourists can see the pink and white cherry blossoms by foot, bike, boat or bus through the many affiliate tours offered.

If you are interested in learning about the history of the cherry blossom trees, there is no shortage of information!

It's worth a visit to Washington DC at least once in your lifetime. I am so lucky to live near the Nation's Capital!!!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Staging Your Potomac MD Home For Sale

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 04:25:28 -0700

Staging Your Potomac MD Home For Sale

Along with pricing, the condition of a home is atop the list of things homebuyers consider closely when choosing a home to buy. Properly staging and making your Potomac MD home appealing to the highest number of buyers will help you achieve the ultimate goal of getting the best price for your house!

What Is Home Staging?

Home Staging is the act of getting a home prepared for sale in the real estate marketplace while improving its overall appeal. The home staging experience and process will be different for each seller. Staging can be as simple and cost-effective as cleaning your house and rearranging the furniture in a few rooms or it can be a more significant project and investment like emptying your home and bringing in all new furniture and accessories. You can hire a team of professionals or do it yourself depending upon your budget and timetable. Your real estate agent will be your partner in preparing your home for sale and will guide you through the home-staging process.

Consider These Home-Staging Tips Before Putting Your Home On The Market:

1. Top-To-Bottom Cleaning

Whether you call in the professionals or enlist the help of your family, your home needs a good top-to-bottom cleaning. The windows need to be washed, the cobwebs needs to go, shelves need dusting and the kitchen and bathrooms need to sparkle. A buyer can detect a dirty home from the moment they step foot in your house.

2. Declutter, Declutter, Declutter

Hand-in-hand with cleaning is decluttering, and the rule is less is more! Do a walk through of your home with your real estate agent and assess what can stay and what should go. You have some great options to get rid of clutter: donate it, box it up and put it away in your home, rent a storage unit or dispose of it permanently. Don't forget the closets. Buyers open closets and if they cannot envision their belongings fitting in the house, they will move on to the next one

3. Define Core Rooms

A buyer should be able to walk into your home and clearly define what room they are in. You may use your dining room as a den and the living room as a dining room but you should switch back before you put your house on the market. If a buyer is mixed up on the first showing, there is less chance of a return visit.

Furniture also plays a big role in defining rooms. Your furniture should be an appropriate scale for the room size, and it should be inviting. You don't want buyers walking through a maze of furniture. Your agent will know if it's necessary to bring in a professional home stager to re-position your existing furniture or bring in a fresh new look altogether.

4. Kitchen And Baths

The kitchen and baths will always be hot buttons for buyers and can make or break a deal. If you have the time and resources, the kitchen and bathrooms are a great place to make improvements. Consider stainless steel appliances if yours are dated, updating counter tops, neutralizing with paint. If you don't have a budget for big-ticket items, then add fresh flowers and new towels to a bathroom and set the kitchen table. Changing out the hardware on cabinetry and door handles is also an inexpensive way to add a fresh new look to kitchen and baths.

5. Light And Bright - There are so many ways to lighten, brighten and add warmth to your home. Consider repainting bolder colors neutral, removing dated window treatments, pulling up old carpet to reveal wood floors, replacing dated light fixtures or adding recessed lights or lamps if your home is dark.

You can also add warmth to your home for a small investment. Try updated pillows and a throw on an old couch or even a new duvet cover for the bedroom. Whether you use a decorator, stager or a friend with a sense of style, adding warmth to your home will draw buyers in.

6. Don't Forget The Lower Level

Today's buyers typically do not have a lot of extra cash to finish a basement so it should be in the same condition as the rest of the house. Paint paneling, replace old carpet and create a spacious feel in the lower level.

7. Curb Appeal

First impressions mean a lot, and this goes for the exterior of your home. Make sure your yard is hazard-free, mowed and mulched if possible. Adding color through flowers and plants is a plus. Take a quick look at your mailbox and make sure it's upright and in tip top shape. Your front door should be inviting as well. You can give it a fresh new look with a coat of stain and adding new matching handle and kick plate. You want buyers to be excited and feel welcome to walk in your home.

The way we live and the way we prepare a house for sale today are very different. Taking the time to stage your home can mean a huge savings of time and money in your pocket. It can mean the difference between selling and sitting on the market. Consult with your real estate agent who can put you in contact with a professional home stager.

Best of luck selling your home!!!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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How's Your Curb Appeal?

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 04:34:06 -0700

How's Your Curb Appeal?

There is a lot of talk in the Washington DC real estate market about the low inventory of homes on the market this year and the return of multiple contracts. However, there are still some homes that are sitting on the market for various reasons: location, price and condition. If you are a seller and your home is not getting looks and you are committed to selling, consider your home's CURB APPEAL and what things you can do to get buyers to walk through the front door. I read a good article on Houzz titled 17 Ways To Increase Your Curb Appeal. The article is a perfect read for sellers that are considering putting their homes on the market this Spring. Buyers are drawn to homes that have great curb appeal, homes that are cute, tidy and clean.

With the weather getting nicer and more buyers out and about exploring neighborhoods, it's the perfect time to give your home some curb appeal!!! I have a few tips of my own:

1. Mowed, Mulched & Manicured - Your yard will sparkle after a good mow, fresh mulch and a good trimming. It shows buyers you care about your yard and must care about your interior too!

2. Pop of Color - Adding color through through flowers and plants is a quick and easy thing to do. You can pop into your local nursery and buy pots already done or if you have a green thumb you can do it from scratch. At a minimum I suggest adding 2 pretty pots with colorful flowers that flank the front door or walkway to grab a buyers attention!

3. Mailbox - Make sure your mailbox is upright, secured in the ground and in tip top shape.

4. Front Door - Ask yourself, does my front door need to be stained or painted and could it use new snazzy hardware?

Buyers want to be excited and proud about the house they buy. Make your curb appeal the best it can be and you will find buyers just can't resist.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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New Price on Historic Rose Hill Mansion in Rockville MD

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 11:51:15 -0700

New Price on Historic Rose Hill Mansion in Rockville MD

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties has just reduced the price of the Historic Rose Hill Mansion located at 215 Autumn Wind Way over $200,000 to $1,249,500. Located on 1.63 acres just off Great Falls Road in Rockville, MD, this traditional stone colonial is perfect for those who desire an elegant home with special charm and historical significance. This property has a long history dating to 1803, when a 440 acre farm was given to Eliza Wooten upon her marriage to Lewis Beall. Today, Rose Hill Mansion reflects the improvements and expansions of a succession of prominent residents and is listed on the Maryland Historic Register.

With over 7,300 sq. ft. of finished space there is something for everyone to admire as this gracious floor plan is reflective of today’s lifestyle. Large, well-proportioned rooms with wonderful wood work provide an elegant backdrop for entertaining as well as great space for intimate family gatherings. A highlight of the first floor is the “real chef's kitchen” with eating space which opens to the sunny, spacious family room. The upper level has six bedrooms and four full baths, a gallery with skylight and a laundry room. The wonderful, large lot with a combination of mature trees and specimen plants enhances the stately setting of the mansion. There is plenty of extra parking.

Take a look at the virtual tour ~ 215 Autumn Wind Way, Rockville MD 20850

The present owners purchased the property in 2000 and have done extensive renovations including an overhaul of the entire heating system, the addition of central air conditioning, an electrical system upgrade, a complete kitchen renovation, a conversion of the porch to a family room, the repair and reconstruction of the slate roof, bathroom renovations, alarm system installation, extensive new landscaping, and restoration of the front terrace and rear porch.

This lovely home is located within the Rose Hill community providing convenient access to the wonderful amenities of downtown Rockville and close proximity I-270 and I-495.

If you would like to schedule a tour of this exceptional property, call The Schuman Team at 301-996-8700.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Under Contract in Avenel in Potomac Md ~ 12 Sandalfoot Court

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 10:50:34 -0700

Under Contract in Avenel in Potomac Md ~ 12 Sandalfoot Court

The Schuman Team is proud to announce that 12 Sandalfoot Court is under contract! This is a wonderful home located in the Prescott Village of popular Avenel neighborhood. Prescott is a secluded gatehouse village of luxury courtyard homes and townhomes in the heart of Avenel. Many homes in this Village have open views of the golf course along the 12th, 16th and 18th fairways, and some overlooking the lake. Avenel is an acclaimed golf course community in both Potomac and Bethesda MD. It is comprised of over 900+ homes

12 Sandalfoot Court is truly spectacular and the new buyer can literally move right in and DO NOTHING... No detail has been overlooked in renovating and decorating this entire home from the hardwood floors on both the main and upper levels to the custom wood cornices and gourmet kitchen. There are a total 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, a walkout lower level, heated pool and views of the 12th fairway at Avenel Golf Course.

Click here to take the virtual tour: 12 Sandalfoot Court

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this Willow Gate Village home are Seven Locks Elementary School, Cabin John Middle School, and Winston Churchill High School.

Please contact The Schuman Team at (301) 299-9598 to find out what other properties might be available. in this special enclave of homes in Avenel in Potomac MD.

As always, visit searchpotomachomes.com to view a complete list of Potomac, Maryland real estate.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Under Contract in Avenel in Bethesda Md 20817 ~ 5 Willow Gate Court

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:42:24 -0700

Under Contract in Avenel in Bethesda Md 20817 ~ 5 Willow Gate Court

5 Willow Gate Court is a wonderful home in the Willow Gate Village of popular Avenel neighborhood in Bethesda Maryland. Avenel is an acclaimed golf course community comprising over 900+ homes in both Potomac and Bethesda MD.

This home has been impeccably maintained by original owners and is sited on 1/3 of an acre on a quiet cul-de-sac. The lot happens to be one of the largest in this neighborhood. The interior is neutral and ready for the buyers to add their own decor. The kitchen is very special with granite counters, updated appliances and the current owners bumped out the breakfast room to add great space and added an adjacent screened-in porch with cathedral ceilings and large deck with built-in seating. The upper level has great space with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths. This is a very special home111

Click here to take the virtual tour: 5 Willow Gate Court, Bethesda MD 20817

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this Willow Gate Village home are Seven Locks Elementary School, Cabin John Middle School, and Winston Churchill High School.

If you can envision your family calling Avenel your new home, contact The Schuman Team at (301) 299-9598 to find out what other properties might be available.

As always, visit searchpotomachomes.com to view a complete list of Bethesda, Maryland Real Estate and Potomac, Maryland real estate.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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I Want A Tech Savvy Agent!!!

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 19:51:15 -0700

I Want A Tech Savvy Agent!!!

If you are a real estate agent and don't have or identify with some or all of the following, then you are out of business!

Smart Phone - iPhone, Samsung
Social Media - Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn
E-signature web platforms like Docusign, Authentisign
Storage Platforms - Dropbox
Photo & Clipart sites - clipart, iCLIPART

I have a story to tell...I referred a client to a friendly competitor in a neighboring state. This agent is very well known, successful and has over 30 years experience in the area. It should be a slam dunk. The clients want to spend up to $3 million dollars (a fabulous referral, right) and want a specific type of property. The problem is that when my clients called the agent, they were underwhelmed with the agents follow up skills, lack of interest, no smart phone or texts and very little experience with a computer. This was the first time I ever heard a client actually make a decision about a realtor based on their tech savvy. I knew it was true bit it's really, really true.

The moral of the story: No matter how many years you have been in the business or your past success, if you aren't working on todays tech savvy platforms, you are out of business.

What tech savvy products are you using to make you stand out amongst your peers?

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Open House in River Falls Subdivision, Potomac MD 20854

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 07:18:45 -0700

Open House in River Falls Subdivision, Potomac MD 20854

The Schuman Team has a wonderful River Falls house for sale at 10401 Buckboard Place. It will be open to the public today 3/17/13 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. The price for this River Falls home in Potomac MD is $1,195,000. 10401 Buckboard Place is one of the larger homes at 3,852 square feet on 2 levels and the lot size is 16,441 square feet or .38 acres.

Virtual tour for 10401 Buckboard Place in River Falls

10401 Buckboard Place is a renovated colonial home located on a quiet cul-de-sac with 5 bedrooms, 4.5 full baths. Highlights include: renovated kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances and renovated baths, hardwood floors, wonderful sunroom addition, access to patio from Kitchen, family and sun rooms.

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this River Falls home are Carderock Springs Elementary, Pyle Middle School, and Walt Whitman High School.

If you can envision your family calling this River Falls neighborhood property your home, call me at (301) 996-8700 so we can get you in for a preview. As always, visit Homes For Sale in Potomac MD to view a complete list of Potomac MD real estate.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Playing Around on Pinterest

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 19:37:10 -0700

Playing Around on Pinterest

I have been playing around on Pinterest now for awhile for fun as Betsy Schuman Dodek.

I have 193 followers and am following 152 people.

I have 17 boards, 99 pins, 7 likes.

I have no idea what alll this means but I am determined to figure it out.

Today, I joined Pinterest as a business called The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties. I am experienceing a few glitches!

Once I get the hang of it I plan to use Pinterest to grow my business.

Are you on Pinterest and if so, what do you think?

Happy Pinning,

Betsy

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Great Schools.org is a Great Resource!

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:08:26 -0700

Great Schools.org is a Great Resource!

I really enjoy selling houses in Montgomery County! One of many reasons why Montgomery County is so popular is that the Montgomery County MD Public Schools system is ranked consistently among the finest schools in the country.

Even with the top ratings, if you are moving to Suburban Maryland outside the District of Columbia, you are going to want to find out the differences between public schools to help you make a decision about where you want to live. Remember your Realtor can be your guide in helping you find a home and your agent will point you to all the resources you need, but your agent cannot steer you to specific schools. That is where GreatSchools.Org comes in handy. It is an invaluable resource that gives you statistics, how to assess a school, test scores and feedback from students and parents for public and private schools from pre school through High School.

If you are looking for a home in the DCM etropolitan area, contact The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties. To search for a Potomac MD home, click the link.

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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One of Potomac MD's Best Kept Secrets: Avenel Community Association

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:31:52 -0700

One of Potomac MD's Best Kept Secrets

Avenel Community Association

The Avenel Community located in Both Potomac and Bethesda Maryland, is one of the most beautiful and prestigious addresses in the Washington Metropolitan area. One of the many reasons for it's popularity amongst homebuyers is the well run Home Owners Association, reasonable monthly fees and incredible benefits to homeowners.

The Avenel Community Association offices are located at 9501 Beman Woods Way at the corner of Beman Woods Way and Oaklyn Drive. The office number is 301-299-5916. The HOA fee is dependent upon the size of your lot and what Village you live in. I have seen the monthly HOA fees in Avenel range from $285 to $450 per month. This does not include the larger homes on 1+ acres. In those cases owners may hire their own landscapers or use Avenel's team and thus their monthly dues will vary.

What you get for your monthly dues is one of Potomac MD's best kept secrets:

1. Avenel Community Association Staff

The staff are in charge of common area maintenance, monitoring and supervision of grounds and landscaping, overseeing contractors, modification application process, committee oversight.

2. Landscaping services include:

Mowing lawns from March through November every 7-10 days (weather and seasonal dependent)
Grass clippings removed in front yards only April-June and September
Edging plants once a year in the Spring and curbs and walkways are edged twice per month
Fertilization four times per annum
Pruning four times a year according to standard practices
Leaf removal four times from November through January
Mulching in the Spring and touch ups
Aerification of lawns every other year

3. Trash pick up

4. Surveillance Patrol - there is a surveillance patrol in Avenel from 5:00 pm to 8:00 am Monday through Friday and 24 hour surveillance on Saturday and Sundays and Federal holidays.

Know anyone that wants to live in Avenel? The Schuman Team has 2 exceptional listings:

12 Sandalfoot Court, Potomac MD $1,450,000

5 Willow Gate Court, Bethesda MD PRICE REDUCED $1,159,000

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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BUYERS LOOK FORWARD, APPRAISERS LOOK BACKWARD

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 04:51:21 -0700

BUYERS LOOK FORWARD, APPRAISERS LOOK BACKWARD

With inventory at an all time low in Potomac, Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase MD & Washington DC, home buyers are stepping up and creating a new market with better prices than we have seen in a long, long time. The tides are turning and some are even calling this spring a sellers market. While buyers and sellers are moving forward with the market, there is something holding the market back: the appraisal.

Appraisers work backwards using comps from a different market (last fall and summer) and are currently holding the market down? They have stringent guidelines to follow and heavy oversight from the banking industry. The agents involved in the transaction can provide market comparables, a list of upgrades, the story behind the sale (multiples, market demand) and other materials that are pertinent but it will not necessarily change the outcome. Appraisers have been forced to be conservative and are very scared to make a wrong move or over appraise.

What is confusing is that sellers are getting multiple offers on their homes and some are even selling before they go on the market. Traditionally, a home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay. That logic is being tested. Today, a house is only worth what an appraiser is willing to appraise. Of course a buyer can overlook an appraisal and add more cash to the deal but many buyers will try and renegotiate a new price. It can really ruin the flow and good will in a transaction. Eventually, the appraisals will catch up to the new market and prices. Until then, it can be very challenging and costly for buyers and sellers!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Don't Forget The For Sale Sign!

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:17:59 -0700

Don't Forget The For Sale Sign!

A For Sale sign should be a big part of any Realtors marketing plan. Often, a sign can help you sell your property and get you more business. If your seller doesn't want a For Sale sign out in front of their home, how are potential buyers going to know it's on the market? Buyers working with a Realtor will get the information but what about the other buyers?

A For Sale sign is a very valuable tool and can do the following:

It let's your neighbors and their visitors know you are on the market.
Identifies the Realtor's company, name and phone number.
Conveys a message such as ~ By appointment, Open House Sunday, Pool, Tennis Court and Renovated Interior, for example.
Has the potential to get you new business especially when you have an under contract or sold rider on the post!

You never know if a renter in the neighborhood is ready to buy or if a neighbor has a friend that asked them to be on the lookout. So the next time a seller says to you, I prefer NOT to have a For Sale sign out front, remind them what a fabulous tool the sign can be and how it will bring more prospective buyers to the house!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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NOT ALL REAL ESTATE AGENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 05:07:29 -0700

NOT ALL REAL ESTATE AGENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL

Hiring the right real estate agent to help you sell your home and/or assist you with a purchase is going to set the tone for the entire transaction. If you get this first piece right, I believe the entire process will go smoothly.

Buyers & Sellers ~ here are a few questions to ask or consider before hiring a real estate agent:

1. Is my agent full-time or part-time?

Most real estate agents are full-time but there are many agents that do real estate as a part-time job or they take a few months off in the winter and summer. You will get partial results with an agent that is not ever present in their business. You need a full-time agent who is laser focused on your needs and understand market trends because they can change week to week.

2. What is more important, hiring a friend or my financial future?

The bottom line is that you should be concerned about your bottom line. If you are hiring a friend that is also a rock star real estate agent, then that is great!!! Don't hire a friend because they are your friend. Hire a friend because they are the best agent for the job!

3. Do you know my market?

I see this all the time. A broker that has never done a deal in the county is hired to sell an expensive house or an agent that sells $300,000 condos is hired to market and sell a $2 million dollar new construction. Pricing is an art, don't hire someone who doesn't know your market and price range. For buyers, this is an incredibly important point. You need a trusted advisor that has a lot of experience in your chosen area and price range, especially with the low inventory we are experiencing.

4. What do you charge?

Remember, you don't get something for nothing. If an agent is willing to list your property for less than a market commission, I would think twice. They are not going to have the marketing dollars to spend on advertising and marketing your property. Just being in the multiple listing isn't enough today. Also, on the buy side, if you ask your agent to share a portion of their commission and they agree, you have to ask yourself what is their incentive? Also, if they negotiate so poorly for themselves, how are they going to do for me?

It is true NOT ALL AGENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL! Hire the best and brightest real estate agent, someone that has experience, creativity and will look outside the box to create the right transaction for you. Hire someone you trust that has a proven track record.

Good luck and if you enjoyed this blog post, check out some other recent posts:

1. Fundamentals Of An Offer ~ Financing

2. Montgomery County MD Homeowners Q & A:Maryland Homestead Tax Credit

3. How To Prepare Your Potomac MD Home For Sale: The Photo Shoot

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Just Listed in Potomac Maryland in Horizon Hill for $839,000

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:53:40 -0800

Just Listed in Potomac Maryland in Horizon Hill for $839,000

This charming painted white brick colonial has 2,574 square feet on 2 levels, another 1,287 square feet in the lower level and is ready for new owners!!! The floorplan is very user friendly including 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances & granite counters open to the breakfast room, pretty hardwood floors, family room and open living & dining rooms. Large mastersuite, sitting room & renovated bath + 3 additional bedrooms and renovated bath on the upper level. Lower level with recreation room, den and storage space. Large, flat back yard with professional landscaping, sport court, large patio and green space. This is the one you've been waiting for!

Click here to take the virtual tour: http://www.homevisit.com/mlsTour?id=64731

The Montgomery County Public Schools for this Horizon Hill home are Ritchie Park Elementary School, Julius West Middle School, and Richard Montgomery High School.

If you can envision your family calling this Horizon Hill Subdivision house your home, contact The Schuman Team at (301) 299-9598 to schedule a tour or stop by our OPEN HOUSE on 3/10 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM & 3/17 FROM 1:00 to 4:00 PM.

As always, visit searchpotomachomes.com to view a complete list of Potomac, Maryland real estate.

Happy house hunting!!!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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A Terrific, Exciting, Fabulous Surprise Call This Morning

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:21:24 -0800

A Terrific, Exciting, Fabulous Surprise Call This Morning

I received a call from an old camp friend who I also run into on Facebook. She called to say she might be moving to the Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, North Potomac, Rockville, Kensington or Gaithersburg area and would I be interested in helping her? The answer of course is absolutely! She is still evaluating the move so it's not 100% but I have to say I was so excited that she remembered me and would like to work together should the stars align. I am keeping my fingers crossed! I have to thank Facebook for making it possible to stay in touch and remind my FB friends that I am a Realtor at Washington Fine Properties and am positive and passionate about what I do. I wonder if she clicked on my posts about new listings or has read my blog? Either way, it's exciting to reconnect with an old friend!

I certainly hope your morning is as terrific, exciting and fabulous as mine!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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River Falls Neighborhood In Potomac MD

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:04:06 -0800

River Falls Neighborhood In Potomac MD

River Falls is a very popular and pretty Potomac MD neighborhood. It was built by Clarence W. Gosnell & Company approximately 44+ years ago. There are over 500+ homes and townhomes in the subdivision.

River Falls is a popular neighborhood because of its location in Potomac on the Southern edge of Montgomery County and on the border of Bethesda. It's also popular because of the close-knit community, popular tennis and swim club and great schools.

River Falls Location…Live, Work & Play in MD, DC, VA

River Falls is located in Potomac MD off MacArthur Boulevard and Brickyard Road. It is a short walk to the picturesque C&O Park & Trail for miles of hiking, biking, kayaking and picnics along the historic tow-path canal and locks. River Falls is easily accessible to Clara Barton Parkway, I-495 and George Washington Parkway for an easy commute to MD, DC & VA.

A+ Schools In River Falls!!!

River Falls students attend three highly acclaimed schools in Montgomery County Schools. Students go to newly constructed Carderock Springs Elementary School, Pyle Middle School and Walt Whitman High School. As always, please contact Montgomery County Schools directly to verify this information.

A Sense Of Community In River Falls

River Falls has 3 different community associations and plenty of ways to get involved. They are the Civic Association of River Falls , River Falls HOA and the River Falls Community Center Association. The River Falls Community center is at the Clubhouse and Swim & Tennis Club located at 7915 Horseshoe Lane, Potomac, Maryland 20854. You will find a clubhouse, game room, swimming pool, baby pool, 6 tennis courts, ball field and soccer field and more!

What is for sale in River Falls?

The Schuman Team recently listed a large renovated painted white brick colonial with 4 bedroom, 4.5 baths, a sunroom/mastersuite addition, 2 car garage located on a quiet cul-de-sac at 10401 Buckboard Place for $1,195,000.

Open House in River Falls

March 17th from 2:00-4:00 we will be holding open 10401 Buckboard Place. Click on the address to see the virtual tour!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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Fundamentals Of An Offer ~ Financing

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:29:14 -0800

Fundamentals Of An Offer ~ Financing

Making an offer to purchaser a home is not a 5 minute process. There is a lot of information to gather, quite a bit of paperwork to sign and remember everything always, always, always has to be in writing! This blog post covers the financing piece of an offer and what you should take care of and understand prior to making one.

By the time you are writing an offer, you should have already contacted a lender that you feel comfortable working with on the transaction. The lender will run your credit, look at your income, liquidity, assets and debts to determine a range you can afford and is comfortable for you. You will also need a lender letter to accompany any offer.

Following are some important questions to ask your lender:

1. What are your rates and what program do you recommend for me?

This will be different with each lender and depend on whether you are getting a conforming ($625,000 or less) or jumbo (above $625,000) loan.

2. When do I lock in a rate?

You will lock in your rate after you have a ratified contract. A ratified contract means all terms and conditions of the contract have been agreed to in writing by all parties. Your lender will need a copy of the contract to begin the approval process.

3. How long is the "lock" for my rate?

Some lenders will say 30 days and some will extend a lock to 60-90 days. 30 day locks are tough unless you are doing a 21-30 day close. If your lock expires, you will be bound to current rates. The longer the better. The lock you need will also depend on your settlement date.

4. What if rates go down after I have locked in?

Some lenders will give you 1 opportunity during the lock period to get a better rate. You must ask your lender this question upfront. It's a great perk that many lenders offer.

5. Do I have to make the contract contingent on financing?

Most buyers will make their contract contingent on financing. There are plenty of buyers that can pay cash or can qualify for both their current and new mortgages. It's a risk not to have a financing contingency but certainly more attractive to a seller.

6. How long do you need to approve my loan.

The answer will likely be 30-35 days. Credit Unions and smaller banking organizations may ask for longer.

7. Do I need to make the contract contingent on appraisal? How long will it take to do an appraisal?

Lenders don't typically make a loan unless the house appraises. However, when a buyer is putting down 50%, the appraisal becomes less important to the lender because the loan is secured against the house which is worth significantly more than the loan.

We typically see 14-21 days to get an appraisal. If the appraisal comes in low, you can negotiate a reduction with the seller or make up the difference with cash. If you are not worried about the appraisal and your lender agrees, you don't have to make your offer contingent on an appraisal. Like the financing contingency, it's a risk to forgo an appraisal but certainly more attractive to a seller.

8. What other things can I do to make my offer attractive?

Provide Financial Information Sheet with your offer
Provide brokerage statements showing down payment or ability to purchase with cash
Remove financing and/or appraisal contingencies

It's a Sellers' Market in Potomac, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, MD and Northwest Washington. Now, more than ever, it's critical to work with a knowledgeable Buyers' Agent who can advise you. Contact Betsy & Marsha at The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties for all your real estate needs!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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COMING SOON: Outstanding home in Horizon Hill in Potomac MD

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 05:12:48 -0800

COMING SOON: Outstanding home in Horizon Hill in Potomac MD

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties has listed a wonderful home and lot in popular Horizon Hill in Potomac MD. 1726 Crestview Drive has 4 bedrooms 2.5 baths, beautiful hardwood floors, renovated kitchen with granite and stainless steel, a great backyard with a sport court, 2 car garage and upgraded landscaping!!!

Targeted list date this Saturday 3/9
Open House Sunday 3/10 from 1-4
List price $839,000

Contact Betsy Schuman Dodek with questions or to schedule a tour!!!

The Schuman Team at Washington Fine Properties

Helping You Achieve Your Goals In Any Market & At Any Price Point!

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