East Baltimore County-LuckNet RE Group

443-912-4866

What does it take to invest in todays market?

2008-08-06T10:13:53Z

Inventory is high, sellers are making concessions, money is available, and for the investor market there are plenty of deals to be had! BUT I have talked and worked with more "tire-kickers" than ever before. It seems that even in today's outstanding "Buyers' Market" more people are afraid to actually make a commitment to buy.

My investors list has grow exponentially as compared to actual buyers. I have spent more time this year researching and breaking down potential deals than ever before. My time driving, meeting potential clients, selling myself and my services to the investors market has been easier but more time consuming than in past years. Easier because I know and keep on top of my business segment-the investor-but more time consuming because there are so many "new" investors out there, thinking this is the way to eliminate all of there financial problems in life. (that's a course of study to lengthy for this post)

I spend much more time in the education of my clients-or in some cases-re-education. Clients that come to me directly from some of the more popular REI courses like Real Estate Riches and Trump University find my methods and practice very compatible to their growth. No, I have not taken these courses, (I started with Carlton Sheets course in the 80's-do you remember the 80's? I was getting great deals at 13-15% interest rates!) but they do teach a very solid understanding of the REI game plan.

Investors-you are not investors just because you took a class and call yourself an investor. Investors are strong and courageous-they are forward thinking and big picture oriented with a well detailed business plan. They are decision makers-ready to pounce when the prey peeks his head from under the brush. They are not dependent on others for their success-but do rely on the team they put together to get the job done right.

It is on that point that I wish to expand just a bit. NO ONE can be successful in this business without the strength and knowledge of a good team surrounding them. Look at some of the most influential people or groups.

Ronald Reagan-one of the most popular Presidents since FDR-He is not the know all of American Politics-but he was outstanding at building a team of like minded individuals to move the agenda forward toward his vision of a better Country.

Abraham Lincoln-Took office just before the outbreak of the Civil War. Probably the most turbulent time in US history, yet he built a team of Generals that would follow his command and lead their armies with firm hand to a victorious end. No other outcome was acceptable in his eyes.

OK maybe a little closer to the industry-what about the effects of Team Trademark of Charleston, South Carolina. From a small individual investor-Richard Davis-grew a team that is now in the process of expanding Nation wide through partnerships.

Maryland has its own-Investors United from Charles Parrish or Flipping Homes from Steve Cook. Both of these individuals started as small investors that grew into large teams that spawned their own training academies. whether it be a physical school or online and video course training.

These two men, along with the traits mentioned earlier, made the decision to be successful by actually buying properties when the numbers worked-not over thinking or second guessing but moving forward according to their plan. Much like President Lincoln-failure was not an option.

Oh, Yes, mistakes were made, I have no doubt in their humble beginnings that money wasn't lost on certain deals, but the overall outcome would move them one step closer to their ultimate investing goal. If a deal did not give the expected return or actually lost money-in the end it was not wasted money-it was money invested in a greater understanding of the ups and downs of the REI business. Mark it an educational expense!

Important to any REI Team is having a strong support person with their finger on the pulse of the local RE industry. Being a Realtor and Investor, gives me that unique characteristic that cannot be found in every Realtor. I have a keen understanding of what is happening in the local market and keep my eyes and ears open to the opportunities to aid the growth of an REI business. The investors that I choose to work with also realize that I always put their needs and wants in the forefront when representing them.

Investors finding their own deals know that I will be happy to do an extensive breakdown to figure cash flow or 1st year Return on Investment. This gives the investor an unbiased, professional 2nd opinion to minimize the amount or depth of mistakes that will be made. I emphasize "will" because no amount of research can insure that our speculative crystal ball is infallable.

The point of this post-Investors this is the time to solidify your REI Business Plan and move forward toward your ultimate Investing goal. As the market levels off and turns back toward the sellers-and it will-you will be in the position to capitalize and achieve your ultimate goals.

LuckNet Real Estate group

443-384-6000 office

443-912-4866 cell

3457 Liberty Pkwy Dundalk Maryland 21222

2008-07-21T12:05:59Z

Are you looking for your first home----or maybe your first single family home? Check this one out because you won't find them like this often!

3 bedroom 2 full bath with an upper Master Suite!

Everything has been replaced-NEW, UPDATED and ready to move in! Electric, Plumbing, Roof, HVAC ( High Eff), windows, doors, tile, pergo, carpet.

The best part is the Huge fenced yard on the wide tree-lined quiet street! Take a look at the

PICTURES & VIDEO

Then call me to schedule your personal tour! At a list price of $224,900----Bring your check book because you will be ready to write an offer!

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate, White Marsh R eal Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate, Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate, Baltimore City Real Estate, Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate, Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate, Real Estate Investor, Real Estate Settlement, REO/Foreclosure, Real Estate Agents, Short Sales

443-384-6000 office

443-912-4866 cell

1322 Howard Rd Glen Burnie Maryland 21060

2008-06-29T08:04:41Z

What an outstanding Rancher in Glen Burnie!

3 bedroom, 1 bath home on large lot ready for the new owner to move in!

Beautiful tree lined street, landscaped yard, screened rear porch, privacy fenced back yard all ready to allow you some quiet time in a serene setting.

This home has been well maintained and includes all appliances and 2 outside storage sheds. Lots of storage space inside and out!

Listed at just $215,000 and offering up to $5000 in closing help-this could be the first time home buyers dream!

Check out additional pictures and VIDEO HERE.

Approved Short Sale! Must use sellers title company, as-is condition addendum required, third party approval-close in 30-45 days!

Stephen Luckett
LuckNet Real Estate Group
443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Laser Focus for long term success in Real Estate!

2008-06-16T13:10:21Z

Once again, I must give kudos to Brande Bradford! Her post Expired Letters has inspired me to post once again to the rookies of the group that are struggling since the change in market conditions. Many that follow my posts know that I moved 700 miles into a market where I honestly had no clue, no contacts, and no Sphere of Influence. I started my RE business in Baltimore just 3 short years ago.

I believed to get a stable foothold in the market, I needed to concentrate on a Farm Market and Network like a madman, but knew that with my years of experience in investing I would carve a niche in the investment side of the business.

My focus the first 1 1/2 years was just building a name and getting the needed sales to make a living. I did this through the concentration on the farm-mail, door knocking and going to any function that involved members of the community-as well as patronizing all the local businesses in and around the farm. This began to establish me as the local expert in the farm market, and I started receiving calls from buyers that wanted to live in or near my farm community. Not to mention seller calls that were ready for their next home.

The first year in business grossed about $179K per month in sales-a $2M first year. I was pretty happy with that and could pay my bills on the commissions earned from those sales. Through the first half of my second year, my sales were still maintaining pace with that of the first year, so I felt it was time to start focusing on my niche!

Heres where I made 1 fatal mistake! If I was already on pace to have another $2M+ year then I could concentrate on my niche, which was to grow my investor clients. HUGE mistake! Two things happened almost at the same time: I stopped my farm marketing (I broke my own rule about consistency for 3 years!), AND the market turned on a dime to a buyers market! My farm market dryed up almost instantly and my investor market was not growing very rapidly.

I had started a massive ad campaign for investors and was starting to get some calls, but no real sales. (You can't make $$ selling shells for $20K-unless you move a lot of shells!) I spent lots of time on the phone, computer and driving to meet with potential clients. I did a lot of non grata research to help potential clients make an informed decision. And sometimes I ended up not taking on the person as a client.

When working with investors, I have one very hard fast rule-If we don't click personally, I don't work with them. I have had some potential clients that I could sense they were looking for unethical Realtors-Ones that would help them through their deals even if the terms were a little-or a lot-shady. I even had a Realtor that asked me to change a listing to reflect a higher price so his buyer could get back $10K at the closing table! Of course it was going to the contractor to do work in the property, funny thing was it was a completely rehabbed property-NEW EVERYTHING! Oh well another story.

So what did I learn from this? I firmly beleive that focus is key-if you want to work strictly with buyers, first time buyers, sellers, investors, luxury, expireds-whatever the case-focus your efforts on that niche and build it. Become the expert in your niche, you will build long term success.

Do I still believe in the Farm? Absolutely! It doesn't have to be a geo-farm-it can be a niche farm. My mistake was changing drastically from my geo-farm to my niche. It's like building a new business all over. I should have maintained my farm presence while including my niche in the marketing activities.

I have returned to working my geo-farm as well as growing my business with investors. If you have read my posts about working with the Gray Manor Community & Business Group, or working the Community Yard Sale, you will see that I quickly placed myself back into the farm as the local expert.

My investor list has grown to well over 100 and I am consistently working with 5-10 investors at any one time. One investor has turned 3 single family homes through me in the last 2 weeks-all closing later this month. The $20K shells that were bought last year are now ready to sell or to rent. Investors are looking for their summer and fall projects and some are looking at expansion into larger projects.

I have two investment groups that are currently interested in different projects. One is a 20 unit apartment building listed at $4.5M and another is an 88 unit complex listed at $12M. Will they get to the closing table? At this point, we are just starting the negotiations, but it could make for a great end to my third year!

Doesn't it seem contradictory that my post is titled Laser Focus when I didn't do it! Or did I? Yes there were some mistakes, but overall my focus was always to be in the investment game. I put that focus on the back burner to make sure I built a solid income in my farm. Then I should have maintained what I had built while adding the focus on investors.

The farm market is almost on auto-pilot, so my concentration doesn't need to be with it-just maintain what I am doing. My focus is now very specific to investors and my list grows daily with new leads, prospects, and listings.

MORAL: Make a decision on your niche-although sometimes your niche chooses you! Focus your efforts, energy, and advertising to your niche market. Grow yourself as the expert in your field and most definitely Don't forget about your own education!

Stephen Luckett
LuckNet Real Estate Group
443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

10 Chandelle Rd, Middle River, Maryland 21220

2008-06-09T07:05:17Z

Here is an outstanding opportunity for the First Time Home Buyer! A single family home on a large fenced lot in a quiet neighborhood in Middle River!

Check out the VIDEO HERE!

2 bedroom
1 bath
Large fenced yard
carport
covered patio
Heating system & roof less than 5 years new
New Stainless steel R/F
Blinds, window covers convey
All appliances convey
Separate laundry/mudroom off kitchen
Listed at $169,900

Stephen Luckett

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate, White Marsh R eal Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate, Miller’s Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate, Baltimore City Real Estate, Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate, Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate, Real Estate Investor, Real Estate Settlement, REO/Foreclosure, Real Estate Agents, Short Sales

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

116 S East Ave Patterson Park Baltimore Maryland 21224

2008-05-26T07:14:36Z

This is a short sale you have to see! Almost completed rehab ready for your finishing touches to your taste and liking!

More pics and video tour!

3 bedroom
2 bath
Whirlpool soaker tub
New Kitchen cabinets and counters
includes installed disposal & stainless microwave
New electric/wiring/breaker box
New plumbing
Crown Moulding
Recessed Lighting
Hampton Bay Fans w/ remote
Tiered Ceilings
Trac Lighting
Exposed Brick Walls
Vertical blinds
much, much more
Just $184,900

Listed $70,000 under most recent comparables!

235 S Robinson-$259,600 4/25/08
110 S Bouldin-$255,000 4/4/08
249 S Robinson-$258,000 3/25/08

INVESTORS-look at the financial breakdown for positive cash flow! Looking for your first or next home? Check my website for more details on this property or other great listings! SOLD!

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate, White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate, Miller’s Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate, Baltimore City Real Estate, Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate, Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate, Real Estate Investor, Real Estate Settlement, REO/Foreclosure, Real Estate Agents

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Is this business worth my life?!

2008-05-07T14:51:32Z

OK so I learned a very valuable lesson today-at the point of a gun!

Previously being a Lieutenant at the Sheriffs Department in charge of a unit that specialized in reducing gang activity in the worst parts of the county, I am no stranger to the use of guns. But as a Realtor, this is one thing I really didn't anticipate dealing with.

I have a listing that The seller and I agreed yesterday to reduce the price, so I thought since I have to redo all my ads I would take more pictures to add. No big deal, I drove to the property and saw that the maintenance people had been there to do some yard work (this is an investors property)-Great, I thought the pictures will look nicer with the freshly cut lawn.

I put my sign back up that had been knocked down and proceeded inside. The house is a totally rehabbed 3 bedroom 2.5 bath that shows very nicely, so I wanted to get several different angle pictures to produce a video-Thanks Rich Schiffer for the Tech Tip.

I went through the front room, dining room, kitchen, utility room-all on the main floor- and took several pictures, then went upstairs to the bedrooms and 2 baths. When I was in the Master bathroom, I thought I heard someone say something downstairs-so I just yelled down "I'm upstairs!"

I didn't hear anything else so I thought I better head downstairs to see what-or who-made the noise. Upon rounding the corner at the top of the stairs-I look down to the bottom to see a 9mm handgun pointed toward me. Having been in similar situations, it still amazes me that you can see nothing else in the room when confronted. This small weapon is now front and center in your mind and has your undivided attention!

I immediately through my hands in the air to show I had nothing but a camera and heard "Baltimore County Police, Identify Yourself!" Whew what I relief-as I take a breath, I state back, "I am the Realtor" The officer, doing his job properly, didn't relax until the point that he was sure I was who I said. I pulled out my business card and ID and as he made his report we discussed police work.

So why was he there? The alarm system had been reset by the maintenance staff and I set off the alarm when I came in. I didn't have the code so I had to call the owner who gave me a code and I shut it off-she neglected to tell me that the system was still monitored!

So there are two lessons here that I walked away with today-1) Always secure the door behind me when I enter a property-next time it may not be the police AND 2) If theres an alarm-always get the disarm code-even if they say its never set!

Of course, I couldn't allow the officer to leave until we discussed his housing plans or needs! Althought he has no immediate needs, he does have a friend, so I may end up with a new client out of this on top of my lessons for the day!

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate, White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate, Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate, Baltimore City Real Estate, Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate, Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate, Real Estate Investor, Real Estate Settlement, REO/Foreclosure

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

1616 Marlboro Rd, Edgewater, Maryland 21037

2008-04-25T09:14:57Z

Great opportunity for investor or owner occupant that wants extra income to help cover mortgage!

Owner says "SELL!" Bring all offers!

This 2 Unit is in the desirable Edgewater area. Each unit has 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths.

Both units currently leased-one on MTM and the other is leased until June 30, 2008.

Call for your personal tour and you will be ready to write an offer! Listed at $355,900-SOLD!

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

109 Center St, Dundalk, Maryland 21222-REDUCED!

2008-04-23T17:53:25Z

Here is an Outstanding Dundalk Single Family Home listed at

$165,000

REDUCED $24,000! NOW $141,000!

Owner says SELL-Bring all offers! Everything is new-Kitchen cabinets, tile, all stainless appliances-Mba new whirlpool tub & sep stand up shower, tile floor. New windows, roof, HVAC, HWH, electric, plumbing. Property 99% complete needs some minor fixes to finish.

Investors check here for all financial breakdown of investment!

First Time Home buyer?

Located in Balto Co MALP Pilot community for up to $35K mortgage assistance.

3 bedroom
2.5 bath
MBA whirlpool tub with sep stand up shower
Appliances convey-stainless steel-fridge/freeze w/ice maker, dw, microwave
New Kitchen cabinets and counters
New Washer/Dryer
New electric/wiring
New plumbing
New windows
New roof
much more
Listed at just $165,000 $141,000! SOLD!

Outstanding Investment opportunity! For your personal tour contact:

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

In Response-Question of Ethics-True Value of Activerain!

2008-04-21T07:59:16Z

I write this entry, as I promised, in response to yesterday's entry: Is it a question of Ethics? I thank everyone for their comments and suggestions. I am not surprised at the outpouring of comments, off board emails, and, yes, Phone Calls. What does this say about the Activerain Community!

I know there are several Rookies that subscribe to and read my blog posts, so for them, I want to make a couple of statements:

•1) As you can see, you can get yourself into a very sticky situation very unintentionally. You may think you are doing the right thing by your client, while breaking some code or law that may be very gray or open to multiple interpretations. Agency LAW is one of the areas that seems to be the hardest for most agents to understand-so how do you think the consumer feels?

•2) If in doubt or you are in new territory-NEVER open your mouth to anyone except your Broker/Manager, until you have absolutely clarified the interpretation or your position in the issue. If you have counseled with your Broker/Manager and leave their office in agreement, if things go sour, you have a much stronger position WITH SUPPORT!

I defer to the post by Jeff Dowler on RE/MAX REALTOR Vindicated in Alleged Breach of Fiduciary Duties Lawsuit Although not an agency issue, you have to understand the parameters of your service and do them diligently and with good character.

I know everyone is waiting for the response, and my interpretation. My first thought is-the buyer is my client, I must do what is best for them. I do not have a fiduciary responsibility to the seller any longer, BUT I do have an ethical and moral obligation to not disclose any knowledge that I obtained directly from them during the listing contract. It is not Dual Agency, legally, but could be construed as DA ethically-because I have personal knowledge of both sides of the situation.

Here is what I believe, and I know this could be debated further, but:

•1) Talk with Broker or attorney should Broker advise

•2) Disclose relationship to buyer/client

•3) Refer client to another agent within office for this transaction

•4) Excuse self from this transaction-should it move forward

In this situation, I think, it far better to give up some commission than to put my license in jeopardy, or a potential law suit that could drag out and ruin me professionally. I know that maintaining character and doing what is right for the client may cost me some $$ now but it will return to me later, because I did the right thing for my client AND past client.

There is always some raised blood pressure when we get into a discussion of Agency Issues-so let me assure everyone that this scenario IS ENTIRELY FICTITIOUS for this post. I posted this way as an answer to Sharon Simms comment on my post: Does Activerain really work? She scolded me for mentioning the TRUE VALUE OF ACTIVERAIN without expanding on what that meant.

The Activerain Community is a network of CARING, Concerned, Business Professionals that bond together to build up the collective. A true sense of community that would be hard to equal. We are each here for different reasons, but at the heart of it are our feelings of satisfaction with being an integral part of something larger.

Reread the comments made on the previous post, feel the passion and concern-especially from some of the brokers like Bryant Tutas and Lenn Harley. How about the comment from Russ Ravary, and others agreeing, that I should delete the entire post for protection. No one that commented, emailed, or called had a financial stake in this situation whatsoever. They cared about me and my financial and professional life.

You look at My Space, Face Book, Yuwie, or just about any networking site and you cannot get the same feeling! As a group-we care and watch out for each other. The TRUE VALUE of ACTIVERAIN IS NOT MONETARY-that is just a great perk! The True Value lies within the relationships built that aid each of us in building a better "me"

I sincerely thank each and every person for their participation and I hope I am forgiven. When I started this post I said I was not surprised at the outpouring-I expected it. I hope you can understand why I wrote the post as I did. If I had written it any other way, I could not have proven my point! Those of you that took extra blood pressure medicine can relax-My version of "War of the Worlds" is over!!!

Sharon Simms-Does this explain better my feelings as to the TRUE VALUE of ACTIVERAIN?

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Is it a question of ethics?

2008-04-20T16:00:24Z

I only have one question and although it seems the answer is simple I would like to know what others think and the possibility of breach of ethics.

Last year I had a listing-beautiful home-but the owners were not really motivated so only did 1 small price adjustment to an over priced listing in 9 months. At the end of 9 months, we talked and their decision was to pull it off the market through the holidays. OK, not a bad idea to get the listing refreshed in the spring.

When we parted, I was going to relist the property in March-fresh listing, new on market, listed just before spring rush-get a fresh run at the market. In the final conversation they told me some information about them and their situation, which of course I will not divulge.

In February, I sent a letter and called them. When they returned my call in March, they had relisted the property with another Realtor. OK, it happens-they wanted a total fresh start-with a $30,000 price reduction from my last listed price! If they would have done this last year the peoperty would have sold quickly-Oh well! You move on.

The property has now been on the market a little over a month and I actually have a client that is interested in making an offer, so here is my quandry:

The information the seller told me in the final conversation, makes me believe that they would accept an even lower offer-if coupled with a shorter closing and no contingencies so they can move out of State. I also know what they can accept, to do what they want to do after paying off the existing mortgage.

If they had never been my client, I would utilize any known information to benefit my current client since my fiduciary responsibility is to my buyer/client. It seems that some class I took in the past, the instructor said client or past client you take known information to the grave.

So my question is: Should I guide my client to a lower offer without divulging the info? Or should I explain the situation to my client and let them make their best offer?

I know what I am going to do and I will be happy to post that after I get some view points to see if your comments change my mind.

Is it a question of ethics, morals, or law?

(OK, I know I said 1 question and thats 3)

ADDED 4/22/08

I thank everyone for the openness of discussion on this post. It shows the trials that each of us have to endure to maintain the fine line between law, ethics, and good moral character. If everything were black and white then there would be no need for training or licensing, because anyone could do it without fear or damage.

my response.

I am not an attorney, so I do not try to interpret the law, I hire a educated professional for that as anyone should do when they do not have the expertise in a particular field. The post and comments are the opinions of those involved in the discussion

I have opened this post to the public forum at the request of several on this board-so I emphasize that if you read this post please read the response for a full understanding of this issue. In response: Question of Ethics, True Value of Activerain

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

"Oh, Chicken Poop", I say

2008-04-16T08:01:32Z

Well it is that time of year again when thoughts of Spring turn to working in the garden and on the lawn. I thought everyone might be interested in seeing some great pics of Spring in Bloom in Dundalk Maryland.

OK, some of the pictures are from last year as well with the flowers in full bloom.

We had many problems trying to get pretty much anything to grow in the soil when we bought this house. Around here the soil is mostly clay with a high acid content, not very conducive to sustaining floral life.

My wife, being the green thumb, believes in keeping everything as organic as possible-not adding any chemicals to the soil if at all possible. We searched to find the perfect organic additive to the soil to aid growth. After some trial and error, we finally came across the perfect fertilizer for our soil-Chicken Manure!

Chicken Manure is extremely inexpensive to get, about $4-$5 for a 50# bag and a bag covers a lot of area. It can be used on flower beds, veggie garden beds, or lawns without adding any unnatural ingredients.

My neighbors have all asked "our secret" and some have started using the organics themselves. One put it on his tomato plants last year and they actually grew to over 8 ft tall and produced more tomatoes than he had ever seen in his 22 years of planting!

On a regular basis, people stop in front or beside our home to take a look (corner lot). Many have knocked on our door to see what we use to get the flowers to grow so big and healthy and my response is always the same:

"Oh, Chicken Poop", I say.

I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Stephen Luckett

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Gray Manor Community Group-Dundalk 21222

2008-04-15T13:27:20Z

Everyone knows I write a lot of blogs about Dundalk and especially Gray Manor. Why?, because I live here and am proud of where I live!

I have just recently found out that last year a small group of people joined together in Gray Manor to establish a Community and Business Group: Gray Manor Community & Business Group

This group meets monthly to discuss topics of interest and concern for the residents and businesses of the Gray Manor Community. The meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at: First Lutheran Church of Gray Manor 212 Oakwood Rd.. Start time is 6:30pm. The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday May 13-Just 4 days before the Community Yard Sale.

If you would like to see other events or a schedule of meetings and topics, check the Calendar on the website.

The current President is Linda Gossman and she may be contacted at: president@graymanor.org

As I wrote in my last Gray Manor blog-There is a strong sense of community in this area. The formation of the GMCG just proves my point even further. Needless to say, I will be more involved with the evolution of this group for the betterment of this great community.

If you would like more information on the Gray Manor Community Group in Dundalk, do not hesitate to email Linda to get your questions answered.

If you are interested in more information on living in Gray Manor-or Dundalk-Give me a call or email and I will be happy to ahow you how great----and affordable----it is to own a home here!

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Gray Manor Community Yard Sale-Dundalk 21222

2008-04-14T11:52:47Z

The Gray Manor Community Yard sale has been scheduled for May 17, 2008. 8 am -1 pm Rain Date May 31,2008

If you live in Gray Manor-Keep this date open to help clear out your spring clean pile!

If you love yard sales, be sure to visit the many homes AND businesses that will be involved in this day of fun and bargain hunting!

More information can be found at the Gray Manor Community & Business Group

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

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Todays Life in Gray Manor, Dundalk, Maryland 21222

2008-04-14T11:23:22Z

What is it like to be a part of such a great community like Gray Manor in Dundalk, Maryland? I have been asked this question many times over the course of my Real Estate career. So many times in fact that I decided to write this short description for potential new home buyers thinking about moving in to this community!

Gray manor encompasses over 600 homes bordered by Northpoint Rd, Trappe Rd, Woodwell W, and German Hill rd in Eastern Baltimore County. It offers a wide variety of housing and well as i and necessities within close proximity. The closeness of schools, churches, stores and services, as well as the affordability of homesmakes this one of the most popular neighborhoods in Dundalk.

If you are a history buff, there are many stories that surround this community-of course the most popular being that of the Battle of North Point in the War of 1812, which actually occurred in September of 1814. A monument erected on "Battle Acre" is dedicated to those that fought to Defend Baltimore and had the British retreat in just 1 day! The next night was the Battle at Ft McHenry which was the point in the war where the British were driven from Baltimore.

Another marker erected is on a field near the corner of Northpoint and German Hill. This marker was erected to mark the "Battle Ground Methodist Episcopal Church" which was used by both armies as a hospital during and after the famous battle in 1814.

A large parcel of land, now owned by the Historical Society will be preserved commemorating the great battle here led by General John Stricker, who is the Namesake for the Middle School that services the Gray Manor Community. You can get much more information on the Battle of North Point from the BC Public Library or Eagle Heritage.

Gray Manor was surveyed and plotted in the early and mid 1940's, although there are several homes that date into the 1920's. I had the opportunity to meet the son, now almost 70, of the man that worked to lay out the original plat of the Gray Manor Community. He lived, with his family in a farm house located approximately where the Charlesmont Pool is currently. He remembered walking the area with his father and helping set the grids of where homes were to be built. He recounted stories of finding many artifacts at the time, like arrow heads and musket balls.

There is a wide variety of housing available in the Gray Manor Community. This corner home on Oakwood rd is an example of the earlier homes, built in 1926. You can find these homes scattered throughout the community, although the majority of homes were built just after WW II. The post War homes comprise mostly bungalows and Cape Cods with 2 or 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. These homes became occupied quickly as they were built to accommodate the growing steel industry in the Dundalk area.

Many homes purchased new in this area are actually still in the families of the ancestors. I have talked with many of my neighbors to find that their homes were either passed down through the generations or sold within the family after the owners deceased. This adds much to the heritage and history of the Gray Manor Community, as well as what makes the Community so popular.

When homes are for sale outside a family, normally they will sell quickly. I have sold many homes in this community and find that homes generally receive much attention while being marketed. It was funny that last year I sold 2 homes to children and grand-children of parents that lived on the same block, so if the house is not being passed down family will at least move close when available. This adds so much to the sense of community in Gray Manor.

Do you like to feel like you have some space? Most of the yards in Gray Manor are large as compared to many communities. 5000-7500SF is normal for most properties. This allows space for a garage, a pool, a wok shed or just about anything that you might want in your yard. Although the majority of yards are fenced, this is not to keep neighbors away, but usually to keep the family pet in. Being a very Family oriented community, cats and dogs are very popular.

It's nice that even though you feel away from the city, amenities you want are still close at hand. Gray Manor Park is just off Woodwell west and offers plenty of room for family outings and a wide variety of activities through the Baltimore Park & Recreation. The new Battle Field park will be added as well as work is done to preserve the area at Northpoint and Trappe Roads.

Do you need to be within a short distance of shopping? Walmart, Drug City, Mars Grocery and many other businesses are located nearby for your shopping convenience. Our Dundalk Walmart is one of the highest volume Walmarts in the Country. Of course, I couldn't get through a blog like this without mentioning one of the hottest flea markets in Eastern Baltimore County. Plaza Flea Market is next door to Walmart and is a great place to spend some time on the weekends.

You can get more information on this area and Dundalk checking these links:

My Dundalk.com Dundalk Eagle Gray Manor Community & Business Group Localism.com

I would say this a thumbnail sketch of what you can expect being a part of the Gray Manor Community in Dundalk. We have enjoyed living in this community and I recommend it to anyone looking for their first or next home. I would be happy to assist you in finding that perfect place call HOME.

Baltimore County Real Estate, Nottingham Real Estate, Perry Hall Real Estate , White Marsh Real Estate, Parkville Real Estate, Dundalk Real Estate, Sparrows Point Real Estate , Miller's Island Real Estate, Middle River Real Estate, Essex Real Estate, Rosedale Real Estate , Baltimore City Real Estate , Harford County Real Estate, Fallston Real Estate , Bel Air Real Estate, Anne Arundel County Real Estate , Real Estate Investor , Real Estate Settlement

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

We Buy Houses-Cash-Close in 7 days! WAIT!

2008-04-13T07:09:12Z

Are you thinking about calling one of these "signs" on the side of the road? Do you feel that you are in a position that this will be your last resort?

Laws in Maryland have changed as of April 3, 2008 concerning the foreclosure process. Why not get educated before giving away the farm!

Saturday, April 19th

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - "Foreclosure Prevention"

Description: Stop Foreclosures, Don't Wait! Get the information you need to avoid the hassles of Foreclosure. At this Workshop, special financing options from HUD and the State of Maryland will be discussed. Learn about Short Sales, Loss Mitigation and getting the most money for your home. Learn about "Foreclosure Consultants", "We pay cash for Houses", and "foreclosure" websites. There will be ample time for questions and answers.

If you are interested in attending this class, contact me to reserve your seat today!

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Dundalk 21222-Walmart Flea Market-Sat April 19

2008-04-13T06:36:51Z

If you are like me, you love yard sales and flea markets. On Saturday April 19, 2008 the Walmart at 2399 North Point Blvd in Dundalk will be holding their first of 2 annual Flea Markets.

This is one of my favorite as there are always alot of tables set up with a huge variety of items for purchase-and most of the time at a great price!

When Wal-Mart holds their Flea Market-it is set up in the parking lot between the Wal-Mart and the Plaza Flea Market. The location draws a huge crowd, so this flea market has become very popular.

Vendors know that this market draws a large crowd so it attracts a wide variety of vendors-from the professional vendor to Mom & Dad just clearing the basement and the garage for spring cleaning. So if you have a little time Saturday between 7 am & 3 pm, come browse the tables and maybe you will find that dream bargain you have been looking for!

See listings in Gray Manor

443-384-6000 office 443-912-4866 cell

Dundalk 21222 Turners Station- Volunteers Needed - Rebuilding Day 2008

2008-04-13T06:12:45Z

Rebuilding Together Baltimore's annual Rebuilding Day is Saturday, April 26. Rebuilding Together Baltimore is dedicated to assuring that low-income homeowners, particularly those who are elderly, disabled or families with children, live in safe homes. Rebuilding Day brings together hundreds of volunteers to provide critical home repairs to not only help the individuals, but to also preserve and revitalize their communities. The GBBR Charitable Foundation is organizing a group of volunteers to help with a community beautification project in Baltimore County's Turner Station community.
We could use your time and talents as a part of our Volunteer Team! If you would like to volunteer, please contact Lanell Patrick at 410-337-7200 or Lanell@GBBR.org.

Gray Manor, Dundalk, Maryland 21222-Great Single Family Homes

2008-04-08T13:32:25Z

Many first time home buyers in the Baltimore, Maryland area think that they must start in a row home or townhouse because the single family home is just out of reach. I am here to say that is just NOT TRUE! There are some great neighborhoods in Dundalk, 21222 that are filled with single family homes that are affordable to the first time home buyer.

Gray Manor is one of those neighborhoods-very diverse in style and size of home as well as price. I have helped several first time buyers find wonderful single family homes in this neighborhood.

Just a few examples-John and his wife were thrilled when we found a single family 3bd/1.5ba fixer for $163,000! They were able to do a special construction loan to add a second floor as well as do all of the fix up work. Now they have loads of equity in their first home, as well as a very nice single family home.

Chris and his wife still thank me for getting them into their first home in Gray Manor. A cute little 2Bd/1 Ba cape cod that had been updated and with a nice size yard for their small child. They have been in about 1 year and are just starting to rehab the entire house to add more bedrooms and baths for new "family additions!"

There are many opportunities like these in the Gray Manor Community. If you are thinking that your first home or even a move up to a single family is just out of reach-Give me a call and I will show you just how possible it can be!