Relocate to Bethesda...and beyond

To my fellow listing agents: could you PLEASE post some photos of your listing?

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:17:34 -0500

One of my pet peeves and frustrations when working with buyers or searching for comps is the surprising number of listing agents who do not post photos of their listings. And I do mean NO photos. Sometimes I will see a property on the market for say, 42 days and still not even a single exterior photo. Do you think there may be a reason no one is coming to look at your listing? With all the properties on the market we need to make decisions every day, together with our clients, about what is worth hopping into the car to see and what's not.

The listing above, a 2 bedroom condo in Washington DC, has been on the market for over a week. It is one my clients and I decided NOT to see this weekend.

I saw one listing just the other day where the comments began "one of a kind" ... gee, a single picture might have been nice. Was it unique because its sooo ugly? or unique because it was designed by a fabulous new architect -- I will never know....

Sometimes, the home has been on the market for many months, its surrounded by dozens of other similar listings, and there is only one fuzzy exterior photo, nothing showing any of the interior features. This may may be understandable when its a "value is in the land" or "inside has been gutted" type of listing, but 99% of the time its not. REO and short sale properties seem to be listed this way most of the time, at least in my area which is MRIS (greater Washington DC area).

As a listing agent, your fiduciary duty is to your clients' interests. You are hired to do a job, which includes marketing a property to the best of your ability. You have signed a contract, and you are going to get paid when the listing sells. If I were Mr or Mrs Home Seller and saw my property on line "presented" in such a fashion, I would call the agent and their broker, and yank that listing so fast it would make their head spin. I would not offer a second chance to correct the problem. This is too much of a fundamental requirement of marketing to give an agent an opportunity to correct, that's how I would see it as a seller. Anyone who has read Freakonomics and other such books knows the lousy reputation that Realtors have with some -- and this would certainly contribute to the sense that Realtors don't do much to earn their commissions.

I went on a listing presentation recently, and when asked what are some of the things that make me different from other agents they might be consulting, I explained, among other things, how much effort I place into obtaining professional quality photos and putting up a premium virtual tour. The sellers raised their eye-brows and said "don't all agents do that?" Would it be unethical for me to take copies of other listings posted on our MLS with me on a listing presentation, to prove my point? Let me know what you think.

Of course, I understand the luxury home owner not wanting photos posted on line showing the Picasso hanging on the wall, or the collection of antique silver. But honestly, how many of our listings fall into that category.

My personal approach is to have the entire photo shoot done and virtual tour ready to go on Day 1 that the listing goes live. Otherwise I feel that if the property is already on the market a week before all the photos go live, its contributing to a "stale listing".

So while this may sound a little like a rant (that's because after a Saturday spent visiting properties in the cold rain, it IS a bit of a rant), I hope it will prompt just a few more agents to post just a few more pictures...

Dana Scanlon GRI, Keller Williams Metro Realty (Bethesda MD)

Acheter un bien immobilier aux Etats-Unis: seminaire le 14 octobre a Bethesda

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:13:09 -0500

REUNION d'INFORMATION - GRATUIT ET EN FRANÇAIS

COMMENT ACHETER UN BIEN IMMOBILIER AUX ETATS-UNIS

Mercredi le 14 octobre 2009 à 19 heures - North Bethesda

L'immobilier et Wall Street en crise. Les prix en baisse depuis 3 ans.

Si vous songez à faire un achat ou un investissement, venez à ce séminaire afin de comprendre:

•· l'historique du marché immobilier aux Etats-Unis et dans la région de DC

•· l'impact de la crise, et les mesures du gouvernement pour inciter les achats

•· Qu'est-ce qu'un « short sale » ? un « foreclosure » ? comment fonctionne une vente aux enchères ?

•· avantages et désavantages d'un achat

•· les secrets du « FICO credit score »

•· toutes les étapes à franchir.

Ouvert à tous, en français. Présentation faite par Dana Scanlon, Realtor®, agent immobilier franco-américaine.

Le mercredi 14 octobre 19 heures au bureau Keller Williams, 11333 Woodglen Dr, Rockville, Suite 100 - près du Metro White Flint, parking libre le soir.

Pour réserver votre place (RSVP) et pour toutes questions (ou une consultation privée)

contacter Dana au 301-575-4915 ou par email

Votre « French Connection » pour l'immobilier à MD - DC - VA

www.immobilier-usa.com ou voir mon blog www.relocate2bethesda.com

DC Metro Area Transfer Taxes: comparison between DC, Maryland and Virginia

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:04:34 -0500

At a recent "lunch and learn" session at the Keller Williams market center in North Bethesda, Settlement Attorney Robert Moses from Home Team Title, presented the assembled realtors with some useful knowledge on HUD-1 settlement sheets, title insurance costs and a host of other data important to informing our clients before getting to the settlement table... and protecting their interests once there.

Among the very useful data he presented, was a chart comparing settlement costs in the various jurisdictions that make up our market in the Greater Capital Area.

For the sake of the comparison, he chose Mongtomery County in MD, and Fairfax County in VA, to compare with Washington DC. With his, permission, I am reprinting his chart regarding state and county transfer and recordation taxes.

In this example the sales price is $400,000 and the loan amount $300,000. Numbers have been rounded to the nearest dollar.

	Maryland	Maryland	Virginia	Virginia	District	District
	Mont.Cty	Mont.Cty	FairfaxCty	FairfaxCty
	Buyer	Seller	Buyer	Seller	Buyer	Seller
State Transfer Tax-Sales Price	$1,000	$1,000	$1,000			$5,800
State Transfer Tax - Loan			$750
First Time Homebuyer Credit	($1,000)

County Transfer Tax-Sales Price	$2,000	$2,000	$333
County Transfer Tax-Loan			$250

Recordation Tax	$1,380	$1,380			$5,800
Principal Residence Discount	($172)	($172)
Grantor Tax				$400
TOTAL TAXES	$3,207	$4,207	$2,333	$400	$5,800	$5,800

As you can see from the above, buyers and sellers of real estate pay the highest premium in transfer/recordation taxes in DC, followed by Montgomery County, with Fairfax VA being on the lower end.

If you need a great settlement attorney, who will ensure your clients understand every detail of what they are signing (attention, first time home buyers, this is really important!), and oversee the implementation of the contract, I can recommend Robert Moses and Home Team Title. Phone: (301) 468-0080.

Montgomery County property tax assessments just in: time to appeal?

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:31:01 -0500

For many of you, the answer to that question is a definite yes!

If you have just received your property tax assessment in the mail, and are surprised to see a high valuation, its probably time to appeal. There is no reason to pay more taxes than necessary. The tax assessor may be looking at values from two years ago and assuming a continuous rise in property values. So plan to make a written appeal, and if successful, that could save you some bucks.

To do so, you will need to prove that the market value of your property is significantly below the assessed value. I can help you in that process because I can access comparable property sales figures from the last few months which will show the current market value of your property, which is to say actual sales price of similar properties in the same neighborhood.

If you would like such data, in the form of a Comparable Market Analysis, I can provide this to you on a complimentary basis. For properties located in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Kensington, Rockville or Silver Spring, or any part of Montgomery County, just send me an email, with your property address. Be sure to include a description of the home's condition, list improvements or upgrades you have made, etc, and I will email back with the CMA in a form that you can use for the appeal.

To obtain more information on the appeals process, check out the following web site:

http://www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/appeal.html

To download the form needed for the appeal, click here http://www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/petitnrv.pdf

I am here to help, so give me a call at 301-575-4915 or email me today!

Special Visas for Foreign Buyers of US Real Estate

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:21:10 -0500

Recently, some clients of mine arrived from France, with an interest in investing in USA real estate and possibly relocating here on a permanent basis. I put them in touch with a Washington DC attorney and friend of mine, who specializes in visa programs for foreign nationals wishing to resettle here.

No Realtor should give advice to a client about who qualifies for what US Visas, but it can be useful to have a basic knowledge of some of these programs. Details on some of these visa programs were also addressed at a recent CIPS class that I attended.

At the National Association of Realtors mid-year convention in Washington DC last month, a panel discussion took place on this topic, and was addressed by Stephen H. Davis, an immigration lawyer based in Florida, who has developed a specialty in these programs. He jokes that he is just "a country lawyer", because he devotes so much of his time with clients from other countries.

One of the programs that the US government (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) has revamped in recent years is a program intended to attract foreign investment capital into the US, for job creation, in specific zones known as Regional Centers. These visas are part of the Regional Center EB-5 Program, known as "the investment visa". Investors must have at least $500,000 to invest in a commercial enterprise, the specifics of which vary by geographic center.

For example the Washington DC Regional Center is composed as follows: Legal boundaries of the District of Columbia (Washington, DC) and the contiguous adjacent areas of Montgomery and Prince Georges Counties in Maryland, Arlington and Fairfax counties in Virginia, and the city of Alexandria, VA.

In the DC Center, projects must be in: mixed hotel, retail, office and residential space, a soccer stadium, conference center space and industrial space.

In exchange for participating in the program, the foreign national is allowed to own property anywhere in the US, travel in and out of the country, obtain green cards for themselves, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21.

Another visa that may appeal to some is the E-2 "treaty investor visa" which might apply if one is buying a franchise in the US. Over 70 nations have such treaties with the US, including France, Germany, the UK, Canada, Japan, Korea, Australia --just to name a few. The investor must own at least 50% of the business and the business cannot be the investor's sole source of revenue (ie, such as being a shop-keeper).

As with all investments, there is a risk, so potential applicants should review these programs carefully, do their due diligence, and consult with a specialized attorney before embarking on this journey to America.

While I cannot give an applicant investment or immigration advice, I have developed the resources to help put the whole package together, and can supply real estate services in the entire Washington DC Metropolitain area including Maryland and Virginia. I can refer clients to competent real estate professionals in other parts of the country as well.

You can contact me by email for details.

Beyond Bethesda... International offering: luxury mansion near Paris, France

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Fri, 01 May 2009 15:27:15 -0500

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTY OFFERING

Built in 1872, this "Mansard" style mansion in the quaint town of Montlignon, is just 19 km from the Place de l'Opéra and downtown Paris. Situated on over 43,000 square foot (4000 square meters) lot with tennis courts and grounds-keeper residence. Luxurious residence with grand foyer entrance and staircase leading to formal living room and dining room opening to terrace for entertaining in style. Second living room/bar with fireplace. Marble and oak floors, with over 13 foor ceilings on main level.

Upper level features a spacious master suite with separate sitting room/office, and walk in closet, with private master bath. Two additional bedrooms and 2 full baths.

The top floor features up to 5 bedrooms/guest rooms, a large recreation room, one full bath and a half bath. In all, this luxurious property features over 4,300 square feet of living space (405 sq meters) on three levels.

Renovated in 1992, and brought up to current standards. Local ordinances allow additional residence of more than 4000 square feet to be built on the lot.

Offered at 2,980,000 Euros

for more information on this international property offering, contact Dana Scanlon at 301-575-4915 or email Dana today.

Dream home in Flower Valley - Rockville MD

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 10:24:22 -0500

4420 Haverford Dr - Rockville MD in Flower Valley

Reduced to $620,000 and NOW UNDER CONTRACT

Spacious and Renovated

4 BR 3.5 Bath home on a quiet street and corner lot.

The kitchen with travertine tile floor, granite counters, gourmet appliances (convection oven) and breakfast area will wow you. Great flow and open feel, drenched in sun light. Hardwoods on 2 levels. Family room with fireplace and basement media room have upgraded carpet, new bathrooms with spa/steam shower and designer fixtures. Private Master suite has spacious adjoining den, full bath and closets galore. 30-year roof shingles (2008), copper gutters with leaf covers and don't forget the home theater wiring in basement.

Walk to pool, tennis, hiking trails, elementary school and so much good living...

contact Dana today for a visit tomorrow... be in the community pool by Memorial Day!

Workshop/Seminar in French on buying real estate: Comment acheter un bien immobilier

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 09:00:10 -0600

REUNION d'INFORMATION - GRATUIT ET EN FRANÇAIS

COMMENT ACHETER UN BIEN IMMOBILIER AUX ETATS-UNIS

Jeudi le 12 mars 2009 à 19 heures - North Bethesda

L'immobilier et Wall Street en crise. Les prix en baisse. Qu'est ce que cela veut dire pour l'acheteur d'un bien immobilier dans notre région ?

Si vous songez à faire un achat ou un investissement, venez à ce séminaire afin de comprendre:

•· l'historique du marché immobilier aux Etats-Unis et dans la région de Washington DC

•· l'impact de la crise, et les mesures du gouvernement pour inciter les achats

•· Qu'est-ce qu'un « short sale » ? un « foreclosure » ? comment fonctionne une vente aux enchères

•· avantages et désavantages d'un achat

•· les secrets du « FICO credit score »

•· toutes les étapes à franchir.

Ouvert à tous, en français. Présentation faite par Dana Scanlon, Realtor®, agent immobilier franco-américaine.

Le jeudi 12 mars 19 heures au bureau Keller Williams, 11333 Woodglen Dr, Rockville, Suite 100 - près du White Flint Mall, parking libre.

Pour réserver votre place (RSVP) et pour toutes questions

(ou une consultation confidentielle)

contacter Dana au 301-575-4915 ou par email

Votre « French Connection » pour l'immobilier à MD - DC - VA

Pour faire vos recherches, toutes les propriétés en vente dans la région de Washington,

Maryland, et la Virginia allez sur www.immobilier-usa.com

Newsweek: Washington DC metro area public high schools rank among the best in the country

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:42:28 -0600

One of the factors that contributes to the strength of a local real estate market is the quality of its public schools. Fair housing laws prohibit realtors from giving their opinions on matters such as this, but there are a multitude of studies available that we can let our clients know about, so they can be informed buyers. One such study was just published in Newsweek magazine.

Not only is the Washington DC metropolitain area a great place to live, but many of the area schools are rated tops in the nation by Newsweek. While such measurements of school performance are sometimes controversial, its one of many barometers buyers may want to be aware of.

Note that, Newsweek moved Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, VA from the Top Public High Schools list to the The Public Elites list for being "the best of the best." US News and World Report additionally ranked Thomas Jefferson High as the #1 public high school in the nation based on AP test scores.

For the complete national list click here.

From the Newsweek rankings of top 100 U.S. public High Schools

Ranking	School	City
12	H-B Woodlawn	Arlington, VA
32	Richard Montgomery	Rockville, MD
55	Langley	McLean, VA
59	George Mason	Falls Church, VA
60	Thomas S Wootton	Rockville, MD
64	Bethesda-Chevy Chase	Bethesda, MD
65	Washington-Lee	Arlington, VA
69	Walt Whitman	Bethesda, MD
74	W T Woodson	Fairfax, VA
75	Yorktown	Arlington, VA
76	Walter Johnson	Bethesda, MD
77	Bell Multicultural	Vienna, VA
95	Lake Braddock	Burke, VA
98	Winston Churchill	Potomac, MD
99	McLean	McLean, VA

The case for investing/buying in the Washington DC area... now!

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:20:22 -0600

Several international investor clients recently asked me for information on the current market in the Washington DC area. Here are some of my thoughts, as presented to them in a longer study on the rental market in the area.

1. WHY NOW? THE BEST BUYERS' MARKET IN 10 YEARS

•· Huge inventory of unsold homes, more sellers competing for fewer buyers. This means more negotiating power for buyer.

•· Many foreclosures (bank-owned) and short sales (when owner cannot sell property for as much as he owes the mortgage lender)

•· These distressed property sales are exerting a downward price pressure on the "normal" sellers

•· The "normal" sellers will be putting their properties on the market soon, during the usual "spring market", thus adding to the inventory, and adding to price pressures

•· Prices have already returned to levels not seen in years. According to the 12/21/2008 Washington Post, average sale price in Nov 2008 for the metropolitain area was $343,000 which is a return to March 2004 levels. In Northern Virginia, prices are back to October 2003 levels. In suburban Maryland prices are back to Feb. 2005 levels. In Washington DC proper prices are overall quite stable, though there are distressed properties for sale as well. The farther away from the center of the metropolitain area, the more prices have dropped (inside Beltway/close to Beltway versus far from Beltway)

•· Interest rates are at an historic low and the federal government is committed to keeping them low for the foreseeable future

•· Lists of selected foreclosure and short sale properties, as well as other good opportunities, are available upon request.

2. WHY THE WASHINGTON DC AREA? STRONG LABOR & RENTAL MARKETS

•· Despite the recession, the Washington DC job market remains stronger than the rest of the country, and major cities around the world. The area's unemployment rate rose to 4.4% at the end of 2008, which is still enough to make many world leaders jealous.

•· Lower-paying jobs in the area are being replaced by higher-paying jobs for more skilled labor in the DC Metro area, according to the Center for Regional Analysis (Wash Post 12/21/08)

•· While the new Federal Base Closing (BRAC) legislation is shutting down many military bases nationally, it will add over 50,000 new jobs in Maryland in the coming years, including 2,500 in Bethesda.

•· The influx of professionals seeking employment in and around the new Obama administration, as well as the creation of more jobs in the Treasury Department and other sectors involved in the federal government "bail out" efforts, will add to the strength of the rental market.

•· The people who have lost their homes to foreclosure still need someplace to live, and are turning to renting

•· "Rents will continue to rise" in the Washington DC area, according to the Aug 30 2008 Washington Post, after posting an increase of 3.1% in 2007.

•· As for future resale values, our crystal ball is a bit cloudy. But according to a Harvard University study, home prices in the USA have increased on average 6% per year over the last 30 year period. Sooner or later we will return to a normal market with price appreciation. But we will not know we've "hit the bottom of the market" until prices begin to climb up,,,

For more information and a confidential consultation regarding your needs, please contact me at 301-575-4915 or email today.

Best neighborhoods with investment potential in Maryland

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:03:02 -0600

I was recently asked by urbanturf.com to describe three Maryland areas that are up and coming and provide good investment potential. They specifically did not want to include well established and pricey areas such as Bethesda and Chevy Chase. Of course, I do not advocate anything but long-term investing, whether it is to buy property for a rental (buy and hold), or as a residence. The days of short term gains are not likely to be seen again for a long while, and this is probably a good thing.

To read the urbanturf.com article published Dec. 15 2008, click here. To search for homes and property values in any of these neighborhoods, click here.

Here is my two cents worth, as provided to urbanturf.com:

Northern end of Kensington: within walking distance of both the MARC train and the Wheaton stop of the Red line metro, this area is not as solidly upper middle class as the Kensington neighborhoods bordering Chevy Chase, but its far more affordable, and boasts proximity to Rock Creek Park as well as the Howard Avenue Antique Row.

There is a small pocket of this neighborhood that feeds to Bethesda's Walter Johnson High School, and that's especially prime real estate potential. The nearby Wheaton Mall has undergone a major facelift and upgrading in the past 5 years, and some of the region's most prized "cheap eats" as featured in Washingtonian magazine are just a few blocks away near Georgia Avenue.

Hyattsville/College Park with revitalization projects around two neighborhoods: First, Hyattsville around the new and very hip Arts District, with townhomes and condos being built by EYA. EYA is also bringing in new retail establishments, restaurants, and shops. The neighborhood is right next to DeMatha HS, which is a sports power-house. Close to Route 1 and Riverdale MARC train.

Second, College Park redevelopment plans near the University's "East Campus" spear-headed for a time by Doug Duncan in his brief tenure as VP of the University of Maryland. The redevelopment project is centered around bringing in high-quality mixed use to the Route 1 corridor, which is still rather shabby.

When these two poles of development really build up steam, which will probably take a few more years than expected due to the downturn, the values in this entire area should really begin moving up. There is already The MAll at Prince George's County, with a Metro stop right there. There are always large numbers of people in the area needing to rent, from college students to graduate students and young professors. Its a perfect mix, all this defines an area where values logically should go up.

-Garrett Park/N Bethesda near Grosvenor Metro: where Garrett Park, the Garrett Park Estates section of Kensington, and a little portion of Rockville come together near the intersection of Strathmore Road and Rockville Pike. A cultural mecca with concerts and cultural events all year long at the newly expanded Strathmore Hall. The surrounding grounds host summer movies on the lawn and outdoor free concerts. Within a short distance of White Flint Mall. Centex Homes is slated to build over 100 new townhomes there in a subdivision called Symphony Park. Fantastic location!

http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/lists/where_to_buy_maryland_neighborhoods_with_the_best_investment_potential/

For more information contact me today by email or phone 301-575-4915

The perfect financial storm ... the perfect time for first time home buyers!

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:10:48 -0600

This is an oh-so fantastic time for first-time home buyers who were priced out of the market and bidding frenzies of 2-3 years ago to buy their stake in the American Dream. With a knowledgeable, patient and informative agent at your side, to guide and educate you about all stages of the home-buying process, this is the time to take a deep breath and start planning to make your move.

First-time home buyers may also be wondering how their agent gets paid. With the passage of "Buyer Agency" regulations over 10 years ago in most jurisdictions, the law allows an agent to fully represent the interests of their buyer client, upon the signing of a buyer-agency agreement - even though the seller is paying all the commissions! Now how is that for a good deal! Your agent's duty is to you, and they are supposed to promote your interests in all negotiations, from price, to home repairs after inspection, and so on. If you don't sign the buyer agency agreement, the agent showing you properties can still get paid by the seller, but they are not obligated to promote your interests. The agent must be honest with you and can provide you with objective information, but you are "only" a customer at that point, not a "client". Big difference!

You can read more about me and a few testimonials from first-time home buyers and others.

Programs to assist first time home-buyer programs - who will live in the home as their primary residence -- exist in just about every jurisdiction, but they do fluctuate according to what's happening in the financial markets, and may suffer from budget cuts in the near term. Which means that right now, some programs are undergoing changes, or being eliminated. So this guide is not intended to be the final word, just a snap shot of programs that as of this writing (11/20/2008) appeared to be still available. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed ... as there are many changes happening quickly!

FEDERAL PROGRAMS

As part of the recent government efforts to stabilize the real estate market, there is a $7500 federal government tax credit available to many first-time buyers. You must close on the purchase by July 1 2009 --- so this is the perfect time to be out looking! To qualify you must earn no more than $75,000 per year (single) or $150,000 (married with joint return). Higher income than that, and the amount of the credit declines. This would come in the form of a tax credit, and if an interest free loan repayable over 15 years. It can be used for fixing up and improvements, new furniture, you name it. The buyer repays it in $500 increments in future years, with no interest, when filing tax returns in later years - or it is repair in full upon sale of the property.

MARYLAND

The state of Maryland offers some programs available in all counties, such as first-time buyer assistance offered by the Community Development Administration (CDA). Buyers with moderate income and moderate credit scores can qualify, and the program is offered through select lenders approved by the state. This can assist with downpayment and settlement costs, and loans can also be 40 year fixed to make the monthly payments more affordable.

Maryland also eliminates 0.25% on the transfer tax on the sale for first-time buyers - it may not sound like much, but on a $200,000 purchase, that's $500 less you do not need in cash for settlement.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

The Montgomery County Housing Opportunity Commission (HOC) program seemed to have an uncertain fate but is apparently back on track at this time. This program is only available through specific County-approved lenders. I can put my clients in touch with a good lender who works on this program.

In the past, this program has provided several options involving below-market interest rates, only the first of these 3 is available right now, but lets keep our fingers crossed that :

Below market rate for a 30 year fixed loan, with 0 points
(A step loan with 0 points, which provides for significantly reduced interests rates for the 1^st and 2^nd year of the mortgage, then becoming a fixed rate for years 3 through 30, at a very competitive rate.)
(3% purchase assistance.)

WASHINGTON DC

For properties under $320,000 to be occupied by a first time home-buyer, the DC Tax Abatement program provides an exemption from the DC Recordation Tax of 1.1%, and an allowable credit from your seller equal to 1.1% of the DC Transfer Tax. It also provides a 5 year tax abatement that begins October 1 following your closing or settlement date. To qualify, total gross household income must not exceed $51,660 for 1 person, $59,040 for 2 persons, $66,420 for 3 persons etc,

Washington DC's unique $5000 first time home buyer tax credit (this is not a loan, so it does not have to be repaid like the federal credit) is also still available, having just been renewed in October 2008. It is available to single tax-payers with income under $70,000 (it gets phased out between $70,000 and $90,000) and for joint-filers with income under $110,000 (phased out after that).

The DC government just recently suspened the HPAP program which assisted low- to moderate-income level DC residents with homes purchases. The local association of Realtors is appealing to the Mayor to reinstitute this important program.

AND EVERYWHERE...

There are many more programs out there, in Arlington VA, Prince Georges County MD and the list goes on. Many programs will require the buyer to take a workshop to become more familiar with the home buying process, costs involved, and debt management. There are also non-profit groups such as NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, that do an outstanding job of assisting the first-time home-buyer.

So what are you waiting for?! Send me an email or call 301-575-4915

A fixer upper in Kensington's sought-after Rock Creek Hills subdivision

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:27:35 -0600

This Kensington custom-built home needs work -- but oh my! what potential

Winter sunsets will warm your body and soul in this fantastic living room/dining room with exposed beams, fireplace and a wall of windows. Its just one of the many great features of this 5 bedroom 3.5 bath home. Priced to sell, this fixer-upper on a 13,000+ square foot lot has potential to be a superb home. Spacious rooms, pantry in table-space kitchen, hardwood floors in good condition, master bedroom has adjoining bath. Privacy, end of cul-de-sac. Good bones, needs a vision and work. Bethesda-Chevy Chase H.S.

Now priced at $650,000 - 3rd party approval required (reverse mortgage, not a short sale)

For more information or to visit this property, contact Dana today or call 301-575-4915

Bethesda feels the pain with its own share of short sales and foreclosures

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:57:30 -0500

Short sales and foreclosures are becoming a more common occurrence now in Bethesda, and many of them are selling briskly after only a few days on the market. They offer the savvy buyer with an opportunity to buy into one of the most sought-after locales in Montgomery County at significantly reduced prices.

Call me or email for more information and for updates. We can discuss your needs and schedule a visit to any of these properties.

Partial list of Bethesda short-sales or foreclosures

Status	List Price	Beds/ Baths	Description	Sub-division
Active	$1,000,000	5 / 4.5	Architecturally redesigned and expanded home on a large lot. Walk in closets, custom built ins, solarium, gourmet kitchen and 2 car garage. Sold in 2006 for $1,150,000	Bannockburn
Active	$840,000	3 / 2	Huge lot, fixer upper in Walt Whitman School District	Carderock Springs
Contract	$809,900	5 / 4.5	Gourmet kitchen, large master bedroom with luxury master bath, walk out basement	Georgetown Village
Active	$499,000	3 / 3	Fixer upper with room to expand	Woodburn
Contract	$899,000	6 / 4.5	Very spacious home, 2 car garage, needs work but fantastic location	Alta Vista
Active	$748,000	4 / 2.5	Updated home on very large deep lot	Alta Vista
Active	$1,160,000	5 / 3.5	Almost new colonial, luxury kitchen, master bedroom with fireplace	N Bethesda

Dana Scanlon GRI 301-575-4915 send me an email www.danascanlon.com

Keller Williams Diplomatic Duo launched in Washington DC area and New York

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:20 -0500

The Diplomatic Duo is a team of Keller Williams real estate experts that have joined together in order to serve the needs of the International Diplomatic Community and all Foreign buyers and investors in the Washington DC area and New York. With over 40 years of combined sales and marketing experience, they have the ability to use their superior skills, knowledge and customer service in order to surpass their clients expectations.

The Keller Williams Diplomatic Duo is comprised of Dana Scanlon in the greater Washington DC area and Terry Henry in New York and Connecticut.

Dana Scanlon GRI 301-575-4915 Terry Henry MBA 203-912-5772

Together we have forged an alliance to allow us to better serve the needs of the diplomatic and international community of buyers and investors in the United States. Find out what the Diplomatic Duo Team can do for you.

Dana has created special relationships with strong and reputable private investors allowing her to get her diplomatic clients (even with A1 and A2 Visas) into home mortgage programs. Call us for a consultation today or send us an email with your question or query.

Seminaire ouvert à tous: Comment Acheter un Bien Immobilier aux Etats-Unis

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:50:15 -0500

« COMMENT ACHETER UN BIEN IMMOBILIER»

Jeudi le 2 octobre 2008 à 19 heures - North Bethesda

me contactez pour dates en 2009

SEMINAIRE EN FRANÇAIS - GRATUIT - INVITEZ VOS AMIS

Prix des logements en baisse... Wall Street en crise. L'acheteur est actuellement en position de force.

Si vous songez à faire un achat ou un investissement, venez à ce séminaire afin de comprendre:

l'historique du marché immobilier aux Etats-Unis et à Montgomery County
avantages et désavantages d'un achat
comment construire un bon « dossier vert »
les secrets du « FICO credit score »
vente aux enchères
Freddie Mac? Fannie Mae? C'est qui?
toutes les étapes à franchir.

Ouvert à tous, invitez vos amis. Présentation faite en français par Dana Scanlon, Realtor®, agent immobilier franco-américaine.

Si vous voulez prendre rendez-vous pour une consultation personnelle n'hésitez pas à me contacter.

Le jeudi 2 octobre au bureau Keller Williams, 11333 Woodglen Dr, Rockville, Suite 100

proche du Metro White Flint, parking libre.

Pour réserver vos places (RSVP) et pour toutes questions

contacter Dana au 301-575-4915 ou envoyez moi un mail

voir mon site web

Market update for DC metropolitan area select markets - Week of Sept 17 2008

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:54:32 -0500

This market update is for all price ranges, and provides a snapshot of Washington DC and several "close in" cities. The market continues to show large inventory of unsold properties and relatively low volume of homes under contract indicating a strong buyers' market. With interest rates dropping in the last weeks because of aggressive federal intervention to rescue Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the time is ripe for all categories of buyers, especially first time home buyers with reasonably good credit scores.

"Active" indicates a property that is on the market for sale through a professional realtor. Source MRIS, which does not include some "for sale by owners".

Select Market	Active	Under contract
Bethesda
Single Family, townhomes	292	84
Condo, coop	119	29

Kensington
Single Family, townhomes	86	24
Condo, coop	14	3

Arlington (city)
Single Family, townhomes	431	161
Condo, coop	389	132

McLean
Single Family, townhomes	314	49
Condo, coop	79	17

Washington DC
Single Family, townhomes	1863	497
Condo, coop	1339	427

Feel free to contact me for a market analysis of your area or for the sale or purchase of your home.

All such consultations are not only complimentary -- but done with a smile!

contact me by email 301-575-4915 www.homesbydans.us

Best of Beltsville - spacious rambler on large private lot

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 08:59:27 -0500

Presenting

11331 Melclare Drive, Beltsville MD

4 bedrooms 2.5 baths

Make this your tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of your busy life! Solid brick well-maintained home on a quiet street. Spacious rooms and updated eat-in kitchen with bay window overlooking large backyard, perfect for big gatherings of friends and family. Gleaming hardwoods throughout main level, with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths for easy living on one level. Charming fireplace with raised hearth in living room with bay window, enclosed back porch for relaxing and huge recreation room for cheering on the home team. A fourth bedroom and half bath on the lower level, make this a versatile floorplan. Big workshop/utility area too. Many updates incl wash/dryer 2008. Home warranty.

Owners will help with closing costs, don't wait on this one!

go to the virtual tour

or contact me for a visit today

Dana Scanlon

call 301-575-4915 or send me an email

If customer satisfaction is important then customer satisfaction surveys are a must

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:54:50 -0500

After every transaction, whether its a home sale, purchase or even "just" a rental, within a week after my client has moved, I send them a 10 point customer satisfaction survey. The survey comes to them shortly after a hand-written "welcome home" card.

Its important to me to know whether the client thinks I did everything possible to help them and responded to each and every one of their needs in a timely and professional manner. So far, my rating is 999 out of 1000. That missing one point is the one that keeps me up at night wondering what I could have done better!

JD Powers has just released their 2008 survey showing that Keller Williams ranks highest among real estate companies in satisfying home buyers. The survey examined 3 factors, weighted differently, with regard to the home buying experience: satisfaction with the agent, with the office, and with services. Keller Williams achieved 831 on a scale of 1000.

While I am proud of our KW accomplishments, next year, fellow KW agents, we need to bat 1000!

My own survey asks my clients to respond on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the best score) on different points ranging from: "I delivered what I promised", "I was accessible", "I listened", etc. I also ask if there is one thing they'd change about how I do business what it would be: 99% reply "don't make any changes!" or something to that effet. Its that 1% who respond that I might have done something differently that keeps me up at night.

If you are in the real estate business, it should be to help people with one of the most important -- and stressful-- transactions of a lifetime. Nothing other than perfection is my goal for my clients.

PS- Remember, fellow agents, the call you don't want to make is the most important one to make. Its the call with bad news, news you and the client don't want to hear -- when that happens, that's how your earn your gold badge of service, making it right for the client, no matter whose fault it is...

Dana Scanlon GRI - 301-575-4915 - contact me today -

- www.homesbydana.us

Market update for DC metropolitan area select markets - Week of August 25 2008

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:43:15 -0500

This market update is for all price ranges, and provides a snapshot of Washington DC and several "close in" cities.

Active simply indicates a property that is on the market for sale through a professional realtor. Source MRIS, which does not include some "for sale by owners".

Bethesda Active Under contract

Single family, townhomes 252 90

Condo, coop 114 35

Kensington Active Under contract

Single family, townhomes 73 26

Condo, coop 13 3

Arlington (city) Active Under contract

Single family, townhomes 433 160

Condo, coop 399 156

McLean Active Under contract

Single family, townhomes 325 44

Condo, coop 83 19

Washington DC Active Under contract

Single family, townhomes 1759 479

Condo, coop 1350 450

Feel free to contact me for a market analysis of your area or for the sale of your home. All such consultations are not only complimentary -- but done with a smile!

send me an email 301-575-4915 www.homesbydans.us

Montgomery County single family home sales update for July 2008

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:12:39 -0500

A TALE OF TWO CITIES?

The statistics are in, and Montgomery County home sales, which had been bucking the national price trend up through December 2007 has now slid into decidedly negative territory.

According to the latest figures released by GCAAR, average and median home prices are down significantly from July 2007 -- about the time the first rumblings of the subprime mortgage crisis began to be heard. While many jurisdictions had already started their downward slide at that point, Montgomery County -- with some of the most desirable markets nationally such as Bethesda-- was holding steady.

Compared with July 2007, average prices dropped from approx. $617,000 to $587,000, while median prices went from $500,000 to $467,000. That's about a 7% drop in the median. Median prices, the point at which half of home sales had a higher price and half a lower price, is considered a more telling figure than averages.

But looking at the 20814 zip code of Bethesda, an area in which I do a lot of business, because of my involvement as a parent at the Lycee Rochambeau / French International School located there, the statistics tell a different tale. Indeed, judging by those figures, parts of Montgomery County continue to see some pretty healthy appreciation. The re-sale figures for single family homes as reported by MRIS show average sold price in 20814 rising in July 2008 over the year before from $677,000 to $808,000 -- about a 19% price increase. WOW! The median rose from $635,000 to $727,000, over a 14% increase.

But sellers beware: this does not mean a return to the heady days of the sellers' market. The number of transactions is down considerably (nearly 11%) and the average days on market is up 45%. Properties need to be in tip top shape to sell, they require excellent staging and aggressive and high tech marketing in order to attract buyers. The ball is still in the buyer's court in this market.

contact me by email www.homesbydana.us 301-575-4915

CHARMING and LIGHT FILLED SPLIT LEVEL in BETHESDA 20814

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:12:54 -0500

This property in Bethesda's popular Maplewood neighborhood is now PRICED TO SELL at $699,000! Full of light and delightful architectural details, from skylights to fireplace. Just needs a few updates and priced accordingly. Featuring 5 true bedrooms and 3 full baths on four finished levels, all filled with light. Lower level with additional kitchen doubles as an "au pair" apartment with its own entrance. A very versatile property! Open floor plan on main level with French doors leading from dining area to entertainment deck and private back yard. Table space kitchen. Hardwood floors on 3 levels, many appliances/ windows updated. This home is conveniently located near Metro, easy walk to NIH, the French International School. Close to premium shopping and 495. Sellers are motivated - call to visit today!

contact Dana by email 301-575-4915 www.homesbydana.us

Know your credit score for free

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:01:08 -0500

Buyers and potential buyers: You need to know that you can get free access to credit reports as part of a settlement on a class action lawsuit against TransUnion, one of the 3 major credit reporting agencies.

It may not be exactly the same as your FICO score, which is a proprietary score calculated by Fair Isaac Corporation, but it will certainly help you to know how one agency ranks you as a risk for future loans.

Who can benefit from this settlement? Just about anyone in the US who had an open credit account during the last two decades! This includes credit cards, car loans, student loans, store credit and of course mortgages.

All you need to do is to register on www.listclassaction.com by September 24, 2008 or call 866-416-3470. You will be asked some basic information including Date of Birth and last 4 digits of your Social Sec number -- they need to establish if you had a credit line during the operative period. You can also sign up to get up to 6 or 9 months of credit monitoring services.

contact Dana for a consultation on buying your home 301-575-4915

www.homesbydana.us

Posted 7/22/08

Comment Investir dans l'Immobilier aux Etats Unis - Basics on How to Invest in Real Estate

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 20:52:59 -0500

How to Invest in Real Estate in the USA, a primer for Foreign Investors

In the spring of 2008 I gave a seminar series in Bethesda entitled "Comment Acheter un Bien Immobilier aux Etats-Unis" -- geared toward the French-speaking community in the Washington DC area. In the presentations, I provided a step by step understanding for foregn nationals, explaining how to buy real estate in the USA. My seminars dealt with the process and benefits of buying and owning the home as a primary residence. Everything from understanding the FICO score, to the loan process, how buyer agency works, making the offer, the importance of inspections, all the steps leading the way to settlement.

Since then, I have received many emails from potential foreign investors who would like to buy property in the US, purely as an investment.

Because the dollar continues to be weak on the foreign exchange markets, foreign investment in the US is up. The trend continues in real estate, most notably in vacation hot spots. The down market is a particularlyt excellent time for foreign buyers, who can come up with the larger downpayments required because their savings in foreign currency goes a much longer way that in the past.

In response to these inquiries from French-speaking foreign nationals, I have prepared a study entitled "COMMENT INVESTIR DANS L'IMMOBILIER AUX ETATS-UNIS" which includes simulations on rental properties, down payments required, some of the costs associated with rental properties, and the entire process involved.

I am presently working on translating the study into English: How to Invest in Real Estate in the USA, a primer for Foreign Investors.

I will gladly provide a copy of this French-language document to anyone sending me an email, describing their interest in purchasing a property, and providing me with name, telephone number and address. For those who would like to read it in English, let me know and I will get cracking on the translation!

COMMENT INVESTIR DANS l'IMMOBILIER AUX ETATS-UNIS

Pour obtenir un exemplaire complet de cette étude, merci de m'envoyer un courriel avec vos coordonnés complets, nom, adresse et telephone et je vous l'enverrai par retour. Si votre intention est d'acheter un bien qui servira de votre résidence primaire, me l'indiquer et je vous enverrai le document "Comment Acheter un Bien Immobilier".

EXTRAITS DU DOCUMENT SUR L'INVESTISSEMENT

Les frais d'achats

•· Si vous empruntez une partie du capital aux USA, votre taux d'intérêt sera un peu plus élevé que la « norme » car le risque pour la banque est un peu plus élevé. En ce moment, avril 2008, prévoir plus de 6% pour le taux.

•· Frais pour l'inspection du bien, prévoir $350-450

•· Frais pour l'expertise qui jugera la valeur du bien, frais de notaire, frais bancaires et taxes au moment de passer â l'acte authentique de vente : 3-3,5% du prix d'achat

•· Frais de commission : bonne nouvelle, dans la très grande majorité des cas, vous n'aurez pas de frais en achetant, c'est le propriétaire qui couvre généralement la commission des agents

•· N'oubliez pas vos frais pour venir aux Etats-Unis et vous héberger pour quelques jours afin de rechercher et de visiter les biens immobilier qui vous intéressent...

Les frais pour la location et la gestion du bien

•· Si vous êtes à l'étranger, vous aurez certainement besoin de confier le bien à un agent pour le louer : prévoir une commission jusqu'à un mois de loyer, payé à la signature du bail

•· Frais mensuels : pour la gestion du bien prévoir environ 10% du loyer

•· Frais d'entretiens : la locataire sera responsable pour les petits entretiens quotidiens (tondre le gazon, nettoyer les gouttières, changement des filtres pour le chauffage et la clim, etc.). Les grands travaux d'entretien et de réparation seront a vos frais.

•· Charges comme gaz, eau, électricité: payés par le locataire, à moins que vous n'achetiez un appartement dans lequel certaines charges sont comprises dans les frais de syndic (« condo fees »)

Fin des extraits du document.

me contacter par mail www.immobilier-usa.com or www.homesbydana.us Tel 301-575-4915

Comment Acheter un Bien Immobilier aux Etats-Unis

Dana Scanlon GRI (Keller Williams Metro Realty) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 12:45:36 -0600

REUNION d'INFORMATION - COMMENT ACHETER UN BIEN IMMOBILIER AUX ETATS-UNIS

Samedi le 29 mars 2008 à 11 heures - North Bethesda

NOUVELLES DATES POUR SEPTEMBRE-OCTOBRE 2008 SERONT ANNONCES BIENTOT

SI JE RECOIS DES COURRIELS DE PERSONNES QUI S'INTERESSENT AU SUJET

Prix des logements en baisse.... L'acheteur est actuellment en position de force aux Etats-Unis. L'acheteur international qui détient des devises étrangères pour son apport l'est encore plus.

Venez à cette réunion d'information afin de comprendre:

•· l'historique du marché immobilier aux Etats-Unis et à Montgomery County,

•· avantages et désavantages d'un achat,

•· comment construire un bon « dossier vert »,

•· les secrets du « FICO credit score »,

•· toutes les étapes à franchir.

Ouvert à tous, en français. Présentation faite par Dana Scanlon, Realtor®, agent immobilier franco-américaine.

Samedi 29 mars 2008 au bureau Keller Williams, 11333 Woodglen Dr, Rockville,

Suite 100 - près de Rockville Pike, pres du White Flint Mall, parking libre.

Pour réserver votre place (RSVP) et pour toutes questions contacter Dana au 301-575-4915 ou danascanlon@yahoo.com

Votre « French Connection » pour l'immobilier

MD - DC - VA

DANA SCANLON - Direct 301-575-4915

www.immobilier-usa.com