Montgomery County MD Real Estate Blog - Bob Myers

Brand New Darnestown Estate for Sale

2008-05-05T15:21:04Z

Don’t miss seeing this new custom built estate of 5,000 sq ft on 4.2 wooded acres in Darnestown Knolls on Mockingbird Drive. Privately sited with a circular driveway, this home has wooded views from every window. The builder has used the finest materials to create your dream home.

This modern brick front colonial has an open floor plan with many upgrades: central vacuum cleaner, Pella windows, 3 car side load garage, two zone heating, security system, fire sprinkler system, travertine marble tile, hardwood floors and much more.

The two story entry with palladian window is made more dramatic by the travertine marble tile with decorative inlay. The fine millwork and molding throughout this level add a very elegant touch. Tastefully painted to accent the molding, the dining and living rooms feature tray ceilings and hardwood floors. The first floor study is entered through French doors, and more French doors lead to the large sunroom with a tray ceiling and ceiling fan.

The gourmet kitchen and large morning room are the heart of this home. The beautiful cherry cabinetry features upgrades like glass inserts and decorative onlays. Blue Pearl granite counters and island give off a sparkle. The Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances include a refrigerator, built in microwave, double convection ovens and dishwasher. The five burner Thermador cooktop has a custom tile backsplash and cabinet hood with a decorative onlay. There is a double bowl stainless steel sink and a vegetable sink on the island. The walk in pantry is large with built in shelves. There is also a butler’s pantry with granite topped desk. The huge morning room has a slider for your future deck or screened porch.

The large family room has a stone fireplace that is wood burning, but also roughed in for gas. This room is ready for your choice of carpet. Molding and columns accent this room.

The mud room entry from the 3 car garage has a large closet, Kenmore Elite washer and dryer, laundry tray and cabinetry.

The upper level has three large bedrooms all with walk in closets. Two bedrooms share a large bath with a granite countertop. The third bedroom has its own bath. The upper level awaits your choice of carpet.

The owner’s suite is dramatic with a double door entry, tray ceiling and arched entryway to the large sitting room. The sitting room has one walk in closet (‘his’) and a 220 volt outlet for a future electric fireplace. The owner’s bath is gorgeous and features a solid surface countertop, upgraded cabinetry, huge Jacuzzi soaking tub with a step-up, corner shower with dual shower heads and all glass enclosure. There are also double vanities, a makeup area, large linen closet, separate water closet, and a huge walk in closet (‘hers’).

The lower level will be finished to suit with a full price offer, and can accommodate two more bedrooms and a bath. There is a full rough in and framing for a bath. The lighting and a grand staircase have already been put in, plus there is a brick fireplace that is wood burning with a gas line roughed in.

This lovely wooded setting is conveniently located near shopping, close to I-270 and just minutes to Kentlands.

Estimated real property tax and other non-tax charges a new owner will pay in the first full fiscal year of ownership is $11,104.

The asking price is $1,799,900.

Offered by Bob Myers, Re/Max Realty Services, 15020 Shady Grove Rd, Suite 400, Rockville, MD, 20850; 240-403-0400. For a private showing call Bob at 301-910-9910.

For More Information & a panoramic virtual tour, visit http://www.bobmyers4homes.com

Gem in Kensington's Chevy Chase View

2008-05-04T14:57:45Z

This gem of a Cape Cod in Kensington’s Chevy Chase View neighborhood is located on a quiet street with a partially fenced yard. This home has several updates: windows, furnace, carpet, kitchen and fresh paint.

Two bedrooms and one bath are located on both the first and upper levels. The refinished hardwood floors throughout the main level gleam. The living room features a wood burning fireplace with built-ins. The updated kitchen is pristine, and has a door to the back yard.

The upper level landing is large enough for a sofa and desk, and has drawer and bookshelf built-ins. The upstairs bedrooms are large and share a larger bathroom.

The lower level is unfinished, with a walk up. There is a workbench and washer/dryer.

The partially fenced yard features a patio and lots of space to play. The one car detached garage has a new door.

The location of this home is ideal –on a quiet street, there is little traffic. Just off Cedar Lane, you are close to Bethesda, Rock Creek Park and Beach Drive, minutes to 270 and Rockville.

Estimated real property tax and other non-tax charges a new owner will pay in the first full fiscal year of ownership are $5,400. There is no HOA in this neighborhood.

Asking $619,500.

Offered by Bob Myers, Re/Max Realty Services, 15020 Shady Grove Rd, Suite 400, Rockville, MD, 20850; 240-403-0400. For a private showing call Bob at 301-910-9910.

For More Information & a panoramic virtual tour, visit http://www.bobmyers4homes.com

End Unit Townhome - Upgraded and Updated

2008-04-28T10:26:55Z

Pride of ownership is obvious in this contractor’s home, updated and upgraded with three bedrooms and three full and one half baths.

Chief among the updates is a brand new gourmet kitchen with granite counters and breakfast bar with pendant lighting seats five; upgraded cabinets, stainless steel Frigidaire appliances, ceramic tile floor, tile backsplash, upgraded lighting fixtures and ceiling fan. The owner opened up the dining room to the kitchen, making for a great floor plan.

Hardwood floors extend from the dining room to the living room. The wood burning fireplace has a stone surround and mantel and is the focal point of the room. A slider leads to the deck overlooking trees, with stairs down to the fenced back yard. There is also a powder room on this floor.

The finished walkout lower level features newer berber carpeting. There is a large family room with recessed and spot lighting, a full bath, a slider to the patio and yard, and a laundry/storage area with built in shelving.

The upper level has two bedrooms at the front of the house sharing a hall bath with ceramic tile. The master bedroom has a luxurious bath ensuite with gorgeous tile and an upgraded shower door.

This home is in a great location – right off of Great Seneca Highway, around the corner from the MARC train, minutes to 270, shopping and parks. A tot lot is a half block away.

Estimated real property tax and other non-tax charges a new owner will pay in the first full fiscal year of ownership is $3,844.76. Asking price is $329,900.

Offered by Bob Myers, Re/Max Realty Services, 15020 Shady Grove Rd, Suite 400, Rockville, MD, 20850; 240-403-0400. For a private showing call Bob at 301-910-9910.

For More Information & a panoramic virtual tour, visit http://www.bobmyers4homes.com

Bel Pre Woods Bi-Level in Rockville - Updated & Pristine

2008-04-12T16:06:51Z

This updated and sparkling bi-level in Rockville’s Bel Pre Woods neighborhood has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and over 2,000 sq feet on two levels. This home is located on a private almost ¼ acre lot convenient to commuting routes, shopping, schools and parks.

The first level has a paneled family room with a brick wall and shelving that has new berber carpet. The large entry foyer and first floor bath have brand new tile. The first floor bedroom/study has new berber carpet. There is also a large closet in the foyer, and a large laundry/storage room.

The main level is all hardwood, recently refinished, and pergo in the kitchen area. The large living/dining room area has two sliders: one to the balcony in the front and one to the concrete patio in the back.

The updated kitchen has new black granite countertops, beautiful pergo floor, better cabinets, and a wall of windows looking out onto the patio and beautiful forsythia.

The three bedrooms on the main level have hardwood floors, and there is a large closet in the hall. The bathroom is recently updated with a new toilet and vanity.

The yard is large and private, with mature walnut trees and lovely landscaping.

A one year HMS home warranty is included in the asking price of $399,500.

The estimated real property tax and other non-tax charges a new owner will pay in the first full fiscal year of ownership is $4,237.42.

Offered by Bob Myers, Re/Max Realty Services, 15020 Shady Grove Rd, Suite 400, Rockville, MD, 20850; 240-403-0400. For a private showing call Bob at 301-910-9910.

For More Information & a panoramic virtual tour, visit http://www.bobmyers4homes.com

Rockville MD Market Report Zip Code 20852

2008-02-14T16:32:23Z

At the end of January 2008 there were 123 condo/coop active listings and 47 residential properties in zip code 20852, including properties in the Grosvenor Park and Randolph Hills neighborhoods, as well as large condo buildings like The Gallery. Zip code 20852 also includes parts of North Bethesda.

There were 10 condo/coops that sold in January and 10 residential homes. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by 42% compared to January of 2007, with the average sold price up by 9.6%. The average number of days on market is 74 - slightly less than January 2007's average of 89.

Across Rockville, less than 10% of active listings or properties under contract were ‘short sales' - where the owner is selling for less than they owe on the property (with bank approval). Out of 616 properties for sale or under contract in all Rockville zip codes as of mid-February, 45 are short sales. In Zip 20852, there were 4 short sales either under contract or for sale in mid-February.

Click here to see more detail on home sales in Rockville MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Rockville MD Market Report Zip Code 20850

2008-02-14T16:27:41Z

At the end of January 2008 there were 51 condo/coop active listings and 141 residential properties active in zip code 20850, including properties in the Americana Centre, Decoverly, King Farm, and Willows of Potomac neighborhoods.

There were 6 condo/coops that sold in January and 16 residential homes. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by almost 16% compared to January of last year, with the average sold price up by 11%. The average number of days on market is 92 - slightly more than last January's average of 84.

Across Rockville, less than 10% of active listings or properties under contract were ‘short sales' - where the owner is selling for less than they owe on the property. Out of 616 properties for sale or under contract in all Rockville zip codes as of mid-February, 45 are short sales. In Zip 20850, there were 11 short sales either under contract or for sale.

Click here to see more detail on home sales in Rockville MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Gaithersburg MD Market Report for Zip Code 20879

2008-02-13T16:18:47Z

This zip code has 38 condo/coops for sale and 167 townhomes and single family homes for sale in zip code 20879, including properties in the Goshen and Woodland Hills communities in Gaithersburg MD at the end of January 2008.

There were 3 condo/coops sold in January and 11 townhomes/single families. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by almost 40% compared to January of last year, with the average sold price up by 1%. The average number of days on market is 158 - sharply up from 83 at this time last year.

Across Gaithersburg, there is a large proportion of ‘short sales'. Out of 932 properties for sale or under contract in all Gaithersburg zip codes (20877, 20878, 20879) as of February 11, 96 are short sales, or 10%. In zip 20879, there were 30 short sales either under contract or for sale out of 225 homes.

Click here to see more detailed market reports for Gaithersburg MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Gaithersburg and North Potomac MD Zip Code 20878 Market Report

2008-02-13T16:15:40Z

For January 2008 there were 71 condo/coops for sale and 207 residential properties for sale in zip code 20878, including properties in the Gaithersburg neighborhood of Kentlands, Lakelands and Quince Orchard Park neighborhoods. Note: this zip code also includes properties in North Potomac and Darnestown.

There were 3 condo/coops sold in January and 30 residential properties. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by almost 7% compared to January of last year, with the average sold price up by 12.8%. The average number of days on market is 109 - up from 107 at this time last year.

Across Gaithersburg, there is a large proportion of ‘short sales' - where the owner is selling for less than they owe on the property. Out of 932 properties for sale or under contract in all Gaithersburg zip codes as of February 11, 96 are short sales, or 10%. In Zip 20878, there were 23 short sales either under contract or for sale out of 325 total homes.

Click here to see more detail on Gaithersburg and North Potomac MD home sales in various neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Gaithersburg MD Market Report Zip Code 20877

2008-02-13T16:12:38Z

For January 2008 there were 66 condo/coops for sale and 157 residential properties for sale in zip code 20877, including properties in the Deer Park, Emory Grove, Hidden Creek and Saybrooke neighborhoods.

There were 4 condo/coops sold in January and 8 residential homes. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by almost 34% compared to January of last year, with the average sold price up by 5%. The average number of days on market is 98 - down from 130 at this time last year.

Across Gaithersburg, there is a large proportion of ‘short sales' - where the owner is selling for less than they owe on the property, with bank approval. Out of 932 properties for sale or under contract in all Gaithersburg zip codes as of February 11, 96 are short sales, or 10%. In Zip 20877, there were 32 short sales either under contract or for sale, out of 240 properties.

Click here to see more detail on home sales in Gaithersburg MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Germantown MD Market Report Zip Code 20876

2008-02-12T13:43:22Z

As of 1/31/2008 there were 41 condo/coop listings and 151 townhomes and single family homes for sale in the Germantown zip code of 20876, which includes the Brandermill, Fox Chapel, Middlebrook and Seneca Park communities. There were only 4 condo/coops that sold and 9 townhomes or single families. Compared to last year, total dollar volume in sales has decreased by 50%, but the average sold price has gone down just 4%. There has been an increase in the number of days a home is on the market before it is sold - from 96 in January 2007 to 147 in January 2008.

Across Germantown, there is a large proportion of short sales - where the home is being sold for less than what the owner owes on the property. Out of 687 properties for sale or under contract in all Germantown zip codes as of February 11, 97 are short sales, a whopping 14%. In Zip 20876, there were 35 short sales either under contract or for sale.

Click here to see more detail on home sales in Germantown MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Germantown MD Market Report Zip Code 20874

2008-02-11T19:15:18Z

For the month ending 1/31/2008 there were 106 condo/coop active listings and 352 residential properties active in zip code 20874, including properties in the Germantown Town Center, Germantown Estates, Gunners Lake and Waters Edge neighborhoods. (Please note, zip code 20874 also includes parts of Darnestown).

There were 10 condo/coops sold in January and 18 residential homes. The total dollar volume sold has gone down by almost 60% compared to January of last year, with the average sold price down 14%. The average number of days on market is 99 - the same as this time last year.

Across Germantown, there is a large proportion of ‘short sales' - where the owner is selling for less than they owe on the property. Out of 687 properties for sale or under contract in all Germantown zip codes as of February 11, 97 are short sales, a whopping 14%. In Zip 20874, there were 64 short sales either under contract or for sale.

Click here to see more detail on home sales in Germantown MD neighborhoods on my website. If you don't see the neighborhood you are interested in, just give me a call at 301-910-9910.

Waters Edge North Lake Condo in Germantown - Short Sale - Priced Below Market

2008-02-05T11:31:52Z

The Germantown community of Waters Edge is close to everything and features plenty of amenities: pool, tennis, bike trails, lake, playgrounds and more. This second floor condo with 2 master suites is totally upgraded: newer appliances, new wood floor, new tile kitchen counters, new granite bath counters, new tile floors in the baths, upgraded tile shower, and newly painted.

Entering into the tiled foyer with coat closet, you see a lovely gas fireplace with mantel and built in bookcases that are the focal points for the large living room, with a slider out to the balcony. The open floor plan is great for entertaining, and the kitchen has a pass through to the dining area.

New custom tile counters and back splash add an elegant touch to the kitchen, with new wood floors, new appliances, and a desk. There is plenty of cabinet space and a pantry.

The two owners suites have large closets and upgraded baths with beautiful granite vanity counters, ceramic tile floors and gorgeous tile in the shower.

There is a lovely wooded view from the balcony, which has extra storage.

Asking $214,900 - short sale - priced below market!

Beltsville Cross Creek Club Colonial

2008-02-05T11:20:02Z

This neo-traditional colonial is one of the best selling models that Ryan sells - the Zachary. With a side staircase and wide upper hall that overlooks the two story foyer, it has dramatic touches throughout – including niches, columns, windows on the staircase and the angled, open floor plan.

The first floor has a kitchen with island and breakfast nook that is open to the family room. The large pantry and ample cabinet space offer plenty of storage. There is also a large mudroom/coatroom from the garage entry, in addition to another coat closet in the foyer.

French doors from the breakfast nook open to a large deck with sunburst pattern railings and built in seating. The large backyard (almost a quarter acre lot) is great for gardening and playing.

The formal dining and living rooms are sunny and offer a great space to entertain.

The upper level bedrooms all branch off of a large open landing, with sunlight from the foyer window and the staircase window. You enter the spacious master suite through double doors. The suite also features a large walk in closet, a separate double vanity, and again, plenty of sunlight. The three other bedrooms have ample closet space and share a large hall bath.

The walkout lower level features a den with two closets, full bath, pergo floor, laundry room, media room with recessed niches for TV and speakers plus decorative niches with recessed lighting, storage area with huge wine rack, and a large recreation room space.

Located in the golf course community of Cross Creek Club in Beltsville, which offers a championship golf course, outdoor pool, bike trails, tennis courts, tot lots, and beautifully kept grounds. This home offers a great commuting location as well, being just off of Briggs Chaney Road and a short ride to Route 29 – Colesville Road. Local amenities include the Fairland Recreational Park and the Fairland Sports and Aquatic Complex with swimming, gymnastics and more.

Asking price is $549,500.

Downtown Rockville Americana Centre - Top Floor Condo

2008-02-05T11:09:28Z

A top floor unit in the Americana Centre in downtown Rockville is rare indeed and you can see for miles from the balcony on the 14th floor. This two bedroom, 2 bath home is in excellent condition and has a great floor plan with large closets. This price also includes a garage parking space and extra storage.

The Americana Centre is just off Rockville Pike, close to the Rockville Metro Station, the new Town Center with shops and restaurants, the library, and so much more. The views are incredible from this end unit top floor home.

Condo fee includes utilities, pool, sauna, exercise room and front desk security.

Asking price is improved - $299,900.

Offered by Bob Myers, Re/Max Realty Services, 15020 Shady Grove Rd, Suite 400, Rockville, MD, 20850; 240-403-0400. For a private showing call Bob at 301-910-9910.

Visit http://www.bobmyers4homes.com for more information and a virtual tour.

Kentlands Colonnade Condo - Short Sale - Below Builder's Price!

2008-02-05T10:56:38Z

This gorgeous 2 BR, 2 BA condo with 1,275 sq ft in the luxurious Kentlands Colonnade building has designer touches throughout: arched entryways, 12” tile in baths, wainscoting, 9’ ceilings, three sided fireplace, crown molding, hardwood floors, and soaking tubs in both baths. There are huge walk in closets, a balcony, high speed cable, and garage parking.

Located within walking distance of Whole Foods and Giant, numerous restaurants, movie theater, arts barn and everything that the Kentlands offers. Minutes to I-270, Lakeforest Mall, Seneca State Park, and the Rio at Washingtonian Center.

The Clubhouse features a two level fitness center with sauna, a cyber café, and a theatre lounge. Additional amenities include a wine tasting room, an outdoor pool with fountains and a lounge area with outdoor fireplace, and courtyard areas. Max’s Pub is a private party room with five televisions, pool table and wet bar.

Asking price is $329,900.

Mortgage Industry Practices - Is this 'Redlining'?

2008-02-05T10:43:06Z

There are several mortgage companies that are instituting a system that rates communities by zip codes on whether the area is moving up or down in price and desirability. They rate areas from 1 to 5. One company has a website that limits access to mortgage originators.

In my opinion, this seems similar to an unlawful practice called Redlining that was banned years ago.

Depending on the rating, mortgage companies will require larger down payments to qualify for home mortgages. Neighborhoods have a more difficult time reversing the cycle when mortgages become more restrictive.

This practice should not be allowed. Click here for more information about home prices in Montgomery County MD neighborhoods.

Montgomery County MD Home Price Statistics

2008-02-04T12:20:10Z

The Washington Post recently compiled data from the MLS showing the changes in the average home sale price across Montgomery County, comparing the fourth quarters of 2006 to 2007.

The results prove, once again, that real estate is about location, location, location.

Certain zip codes reportedly showed an increase in sales price, most notably Poolesville, Gaithersburg and parts of Rockville, Boyds and Germantown. Huge areas across the county saw drops of anywhere from 2% to 19%. Some close in areas in Bethesda and Silver Spring saw slight gains from 2% to 9%.

The oversupply of homes and the mortgage credit crunch have obviously impacted Montgomery County, although our situation is not as serious as other parts of the country.

Some of this data goes against my personal experience with my clients - Clarksburg, for example, has seen a huge drop in value. Builders are offering incredible incentives right now, which don't show up in the sales price. In addition, this data doesn't show the seller subsidy that is paid at closing that reduces the buyer's closing costs. To get an idea of the true market value, you have to deduct that subsidy to arrive at the net price.

I post reports on various Montgomery County neighborhoods on my website, where you can see current listings, homes under contract, and recent sales. You get a great idea of what is going on in the neighborhood looking at this type of report.

If you are concerned about what your home is worth, I can do a quick home evaluation via e-mail or stop by and give you a more in-depth analysis, just call me at 301-910-9910.

Change in Maryland Homestead Property Tax Credit

2008-02-01T15:54:06Z

There has been a major change to the Maryland state property tax system you need to know about. In order to continue to receive the Homestead Tax Credit which has capped the property tax increase when your home's assessed value increases, you must now apply to receive this credit.

You may not even have known about this automatic credit, but now the state is requiring that all homeowners file an application for their principal residence in order to receive it. This is an effort to prevent fraud. You should let your friends and relatives know about this, especially the elderly, to make sure they don't miss it.

Assessments of value have greatly increased this year based on past market activity, so your property tax bill is sure to go up. As long as you apply for your principal residence, you will at least minimize the 'damage'.

A third of Maryland homeowners received their new tax assessment in December, and it has instructions on it. Homeowners have until 2012 to make this application. You can put in your application now, or just wait until you get your new bill. Print the application from http://www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/Homestead_app.htm or you can also visit my website at www.bobmyers4homes.com to reach a link to get these documents.

If you buy a home this year you have 180 days to file an application, but it will not go into effect for a year. There are new disclosure rules for sellers starting in April so that home buyers are not surprised by the large increase.