real estate market: Montgomery County Considering an Increase in the Transfer & Recordation Tax - 06/19/07 09:26 AM
I just heard today that Montgomery County, MD is considering a substantial increase in the County Transfer & Recordation Tax.  5 years ago, this tax was $4.20 per thousand, then it was increased to $6.90 per thousand.  Now, the proposal on the table would increase this tax to $11.20 per thousand.
We already have fairly high property taxes.  The FED has played with the prime rate which has affected the housing market overall.  Mortgage rates have been creaping up.  All these things combined, I have no doubt, have had affecting the housing market.  Now, such a substantial increase in transfer taxes will … (2 comments)

real estate market: Commentary - The Real Estate Market in/and Around Montgomery County, MD - 01/08/07 07:57 AM
Before I get rolling, I just want to make sure that everyone reading this understands that this is my opinion and only my opinion and this should not be construed as fact(or fiction).  That said, I do believe that many people (buyers and sellers alike) are still trying to figure out what is happening in this real estate market.
Let's start with the past year (2006).  What happened?  Quite simply, an expected and needed market check.
Real estate prices had been growing by a stagering 20%+ a year for about 4 years running.  People from all walks of life and income brackets were … (3 comments)