MRE Group Blog

It’s Raining…It’s Pouring…Get Your Boots the House Just Flooded

2008-06-19T13:43:01Z

This has been a wet and soggy March, April, and May (especially May). June? I always said I wanted to visit Seattle, I think I just changed my mind.

The rain is beneficial, we all know this and there are days that we wish for the rain. However the growing concern for my clients and most homeowners is, "what about flood insurance". There is good reason for the growing concern. It used to be that the mortgage company only made you buy flood insurance if you were in "high risk" areas. Nevertheless, with the onslaught of more showers, hurricanes and tornados, in places one never expected, even if the mortgage company does not require the insurance you need to consider it. Most homeowners do not realize that their everyday hazard insurance policy does not cover damage caused by flooding. Therefore, the question remains, how much flood insurance should you purchase and how will this affect your premiums and budget? These questions are necessary especially in a growing recession. The peace of mind is that the federal government provides policies through the National Flood Insurance Program and you can purchase it through private insurers. The federal government sets the rates so you do not have to shop for your insurance based upon price. If you trust your insurance agent and feel comfortable, utilize the same gauge that utilized for your hazard insurance. Normal recommendations are 100 percent of cost to cover the replacement. Of course, the value of the home and your chattels will determine how much insurance you purchase.

We recommend going to The Federal Emergency Management Agency's website to see the risk zones for your area. Look at the flood maps provided to determine the risk. One might also consider the history of the property. Have you or your neighbors had any extensive damage from flooding in the last few years?

The policies offered by the federal government have varying limits as to time of enforcement, basements and "high cost" areas. Research private insurers, you might want to consider a blend of both federal and private policies.

Be completely educated before making the final decision, but do not wait. Remember your mother always said "better to err on the side of caution", so do not let cost be a factor.

Natalie Dean, MRE Group Real Estate Consultant

What Happened to My Retirement?

2008-06-19T13:39:26Z

‘These are supposed to be my golden years. My days should consist of leisurely activities of my choosing not preparations for a second career.' Sound familiar? Unfortunately, this scenario has reached epidemic proportions among retirees and soon-to-be-retired baby boomers. What happened to my retirement?

Let's begin with the obvious: defined-benefit retirement plans also known as pension plans are extremely rare in today's corporate environment. The fact is pension plans of days ago are viewed as an unattractive expense for corporations. The media has related thousands of stories wherein faithful employees were given the promise of a pension but in tough economic times were put out to pasture by corporations seeking to remain in business or pad the pockets of top executives. They call it "restructuring", employees know it to be "a raw deal".

What are we left to do? For those who are retired or approaching retirement, your home equity may be the answer to your problems. Some are taking advantage of reverse mortgages (you must be 62 years of age to qualify). Conservative estimates say there are more than 20 million Americans over the age of 62 who own their homes free and clear. Many in this group are funding their retirement by receiving monthly payments from a mortgage company. This is a viable option for many since equity not income is the primary qualifying factor.

What can those in the work force do to avoid the challenges of retirement? Let us examine a few options:

If your company offers a retirement plan, most likely it is a 401(k) plan. One benefit of these plans is company matching. Some companies offer 50% matching or more up to a certain percentage of employee income. A second benefit is that contributed funds grow tax-deferred. This option appears to be extremely attractive, however, caution should be exercised when taking into account the entire tax implications (much of your retirement could end up in Philadelphia with the IRS). Depending on your tax bracket, the average retiree should expect the government to take 25% to 33% of your well-deserved funds. Do the math; it is quite a chunk!

A second option is an IRA (Individual Retirement Account). This plan operates essentially the same as a 401(k) and has similar tax implications (you're starting not to like Philadelphia, aren't you?). Yet another downside to this option is the limitation on contributions ($5,000.00 per individual in 2008) not to mention the 10% early withdrawal penalty for persons who wish to access funds prior to age 59 ½ (there are a few exceptions including withdrawals for first time home buyers, post-secondary education and catastrophic medical expenses).

There are two additional plans gaining popularity. They are the Roth 401(k) & IRA. These two plans are a step in the right direction. Although these plans use after-tax dollars, they grow tax-deferred and distribute tax-free at retirement. The downside of these plans is comparable to their non-Roth counterparts. There are limits on contributions and a 6% penalty for excess contributions. Similarly, there are penalties for early withdrawal.

It is not difficult to see why planning for retirement can be frustrating and confusing. Well then, diligent retirement preparers, is there another option to meet your retirement planning goals? There is a quiet strategy that has been used for years by the wealthy. Properly Structured Permanent Life Insurance Contracts are the only retirement vehicles that allow participants to accumulate funds tax free, allow access to funds tax free, and have the ability to last into perpetuity upon transfer to your heirs. There are additional benefits to this plan that should be discussed with a financial specialist. This strategy is a favorite of the MRE Group.

In the final analysis, we can no longer count on corporations to look out for our best interest with regard to retirement planning. We must put forth the due diligence to prepare for our own needs. With the responsibility left to us, we can avoid the nagging question: What happened to my retirement? Contact Leslie Vinson, of the MRE Group, today for further details on financial planning.

The MRE Group would like to thank you for your continued support, and we hope to continue to remain your trusted choice in real estate and financial services. As always, if you have any home-related questions, or hear that any family, friends, or neighbors are interested in moving do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. Thank You

Leslie Vinson, MRE Group Financial Planner

13206 Poppy Hill Court Brandywine, MD 20613

2008-05-19T13:45:05Z

Price:$463, 750

Bedrooms:4

Bathrooms:2.5

4 Years Young! This is a gorgeous home and loved by original owners. Owners suite is a lush hideway after long days work. Enjoy warm moments with family and friends in an enormous space that includes breakfast room, large kitchen and den. Great for entertaining the seller has added a beautiful deck on the rear just in time for summertime bbq. Well kept neighborhood in a fast growing area. MUST SEE

To see pictures of this one-of-a-kind listing visit the MRE Group website!

13206 Poppy Hill Court Brandywine, MD 20613

2008-05-19T13:32:45Z

Price: $3,100

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms:2.5

4 Years Young! This is a gorgeous home and loved by original owners. Owners suite is a lush hideway after long days work. Enjoy warm moments with family and friends in an enormous space that includes breakfast room, large kitchen and den. Great for entertaining the seller has added a beautiful deck on the rear just in time for summertime bbq. Fast growing area. THIS LISTING IS A RENTAL AS WELL AS FOR SALE!

Check out our website for more pictures!

4410 OGLETHORPE ST #704, HYATTSVILLE, MD 20781

2008-05-08T13:07:39Z

RENTAL PRICE: $1,450

Bedrooms 2

Bathrooms 1

Description: This is BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! Fabulous renovated condo 1 blck from Rehabed Historical Mt. Rainier Art District ie Brand new 400k townhomes and retail shopping. The property backs to Dematha High School. Pristine building and park like out side grounds await you as the New Tenant. Convenience galore-coffee houses-5 min to New PG Plz-8 min dwt.

For more pictures and information about this beautiful property visit the MRE Group Website!

4410 OGLETHORPE ST #704, HYATTSVILLE, MD 20781

2008-05-08T13:03:44Z

Price: $180,000

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1

Description: This is BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! Fabulous renovated condo 1 block from Rehabed Historical Mt. Rainier Art District ie Brand new 400k townhomes and retail shopping. The property backs to Dematha High School and gorgeous quiet neighborhood of single family homes. Pristine building and park like out side grounds await you as the New Homeowner. Convenience galore-coffee houses-5 min to New PG Plz-8 min dwtwn.

For more pictures and information about this beautiful property visit the MRE Group Website!

If you SOLD a few years ago is now the time to jump back in

2008-05-08T11:46:17Z

All of the information you read in today's periodicals talk about the "bottom" but many ask the bottom of what? Well it used to be just the bottom of the real estate and mortgage industries now we have added to our list, the stock market. Analyst say it is difficult to judge the bottom in the stock market you see big gains and sizable pullbacks. In the housing market it can be just as challenging, you see no gain and lowering interest rates and banks have become much stricter on who they lend to and how much. Is this the bottom of all three? Where is the economy going? Is now the time to stay or go?
At the MRE Group, we are no experts on the stock market, however we can recommend a few good financial planners to you if need one. We are however experts in the real estate and mortgage industries. Traditionally the trend has been for persons to lock up huge amounts of money into their real estate investment. Experts contend that no longer is that necessary or prudent in times where "diversified portfolios" are the order of the day. The stock market and real estate industries have long since had an ebb and flow soaring during times of overvaluation and plummeting when no longer favorable with the masses. Leslie Vinson of Mortgage Star says, "You can take a mortgage calculator and see that on average, through highs and lows of the economy, a property will increase in value from 5% to 6% yearly." Of course, that does not account for times like 2001 to 2006, were the industry recognized amazing growth trends for five years. Many homeowners realized a 10% to 12% increase each year.
All economist say to buy low and sell high, the real estate market will rebound. Remember the 80's, the market was low and interest rates were 12% to 15% for good credit borrowers, today the averages are much better.
The best thing to do is be a smart investor. There are so many advantages to homeownership, tax benefits not given to stock investors, leveraging assets with financial institutes and most of all a built in savings plan. Talk to persons who have the benefit of owning a property through more than one cycle of highs and lows, see if they do not say their home has been one of the wisest investments they ever made for their families.
The MRE Group would like to thank you for your continued support, and we hope to continue to remain your trusted choice in real estate and mortgage services. As always, if you have any home-related questions, or hear that any family, friends, or neighbors are interested in moving do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. Thank You.
Natalie Dean, real estate consultant

Gen Xer’s and their spending habits, seeing the world through plastic

2008-05-08T11:43:32Z

I am always amazed at the intellect of this young generation. Many of them are business owners by the age of 15 most will own more than one business before they reach 30 years old. They are the reason and the genius behind the technology advancement we all have come to rely on daily. In fact without it, most of us would be out of business or out of job quick fast and in a hurry. However just like all bright stars, they still need help as they continue to chart their life's journey. The new statics read that 51% of them have credit cards and credit card debt before they reach college. This means that most of them are in debt by the ripe "old" age of 17 to 18 years old. Wow! Those are remarkable and disparaging figures. We know our young people are being targeted by these big consumer credit card agencies earlier and earlier so what steps can be taken to remedy the problem and protect them from becoming prey? One word, EDUCATION.

All of us can get involved, parents, mentors, aunts, uncles become a friend and educate these ones on the dangers of being in debt. As the nation spirals into a recession and the student loan debt, cost of housing, gasoline and food all increases by enormous amounts. We cannot control these things. However, we can control the debt that we assume. I love my parents and I thank them every day for making us sit down and talk about finances weekly from an early age. Talk about protecting a kid from heartache. Educate the young on the benefit of a cash environment, if you do not have the cash to pay for it NOW you cannot afford it. Tell them about the 10% rule, of every dime you earn 10% should automatically go into the bank as savings, preferably into an account that is not linked up with an ATM card and has penalties for having a balance under a certain amount. If it is necessary to have a credit card educate them on two of the best, American Express that charges no interest for the first 14 months and has a 2,000 limit. The catch is you have to have good credit to qualify. Discover Card has a "Credit 101" booklet and the company's website has a "student center" with a budget calculator, quiz and a glossary of key terms. I suggest unless your young person is extremely responsible take the time to go on the site with them and make sure they take advantage of these tools. Then when they go to make that not so smart purchase with their friends over the weekend, what you just taught them will resonate in the back of their minds. Hey, they just might step away and say, "Sorry guys maybe next time, I just can't afford it today"

Natalie Dean, real estate consultant

Feature Article: Does Washington Finally Have Affordable Housing

2008-04-22T12:36:08Z

As this economy continues to spiral out of control and other stock market giants buy huge static corporations like Bear Stearns and record number of bankruptcies of small and medium sized business are being filed. Consumer debt and spending has reached well into the billion dollar mark and the resounding woes of the housing crisis continues to flood the airways, it is easy to become overwhelmed. However, there is light hovering at the end of the tunnel. In the Washington Area, one of the wealthiest in the nation, housing prices although not plummeting have stabilized allowing many would be renters to cash in as First Time Home Buyers.The correction of the real estate market has led to a series of wonderful changes allowing for affordable housing. FHA loan limits have risen from their traditional 362,000 to well over 729,750 in high cost area, homeowners are now allowed to give 6% closing help through the help of the Ameridream and other seller down payment assistance programs. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac the institutions utilized to back conventional mortgages raised conventional conforming loans limits and houses are in much better condition than in times past with homeowners willing to do any and all necessary repairs (cosmetic and non cosmetic) in order to attract area buyers. Foreclosures are on the rise and not just for the savvy investor but are popping up all over our multiple listing service, giving homeowners and edge in getting a bargain in the market. This is a good time purchase real estate. Across the region, the median cost of housing is down especially in Loudoun and Prince William Counties. These two counties saw phenomenal amounts of growth during our real estate boom of 2000 to 2005 and now are leading the area in foreclosure crisis. As the tide on the housing market takes shape many wonder, have we hit the bottom. They may wait it out to get the best deal. Remember that just like with the stock market or any investment when you think you are seeing the bottom it probably has already occurred and the best deals are gone. The MRE Group would like to thank you for your continued support, and we hope to continue to remain your trusted choice in real estate and mortgage services. As always, if you have any home-related questions, or hear that any family, friends, or neighbors are interested in moving do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. Thank You.

What, the MRE Group is in the News?

Recently the Natalie Dean of the MRE Group had the wonderful privilege of helping one of the Real Estate staff writers of the Washington Informer. They wrote an interesting article on the benefits of performing a home inspection. You can read more on this story at the Washington Informer, pg 14.

MRE Group Book of the Month Club

In the February issue of the MRE Group newsletter, we promised to begin a book of the month club. We practice avid reading here at the Group and encourage it in all of our clients. Knowledge creates power, which in turn can stimulate growth and ultimately financial freedom. This month our book is recommend to us by our own Leslie Vinson, mortgage guru and spirited entrepreneur. The book, The Millionaire Next Door written by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko, is a national best seller "that is changing people's lives and increasing their net worth". Later in April, we will have a discussion on this book on our online blog.

Natalie Dean, Real Estate Consultant

15039 Braddock Road, Centreville, VA 20120

2008-03-10T14:35:58Z

Price:$1,400,000

Bedrooms:9

Bathrooms:6 For more beautiful pictures take a look at the Virtual Tour

Description: This home is a one of a kind English/Russian country estate; this property is a huge house at a great value. It has nearly 8000 sq feet of living space, 2200 feet of covered all weather verandas, and 1000 feet of uncovered deck. The land alone has been assessed by the County at $500,000. There's no worry of covenants or the homeowner's association. This beauty is bordered on two sides by Cub Run creek, and surrounded by hundreds of acres of perpetually protected forest. Children can climb on the large, nearly new, play-gym, ride horses, raise animals, build tree houses, play with their dogs, and grow in a traditional environment. This property has a pond, orchards, a 100 X 200 foot fenced garden with raised beds; a 16 X 40 greenhouse/ artists studio with 12 foot tall southern glass walls; a 16 X 50 aviary plus bird house, and a 800 square foot hot tub deck Also a secluded 12 X 70 foot surplus county school module near the house has electricity, heat, and AC. There is even an RV parking building of 24 x 50 feet provides four 12 foot wide and tall stalls with electricity and water. The well water is very pure and 100% reliable, with a new pump, yet the property is connected to county sewers. The 1000 gallon propane tank is designed to be connected to an emergency generator. There are 108 large, 12 pane, "high e" windows and French doors! The roof is a standing seam green metal, assuring a half century of reliability. There are 9 bedrooms, 6 baths, three kitchens or wet bars, a children's' school room, formal dining room, 24 x 32 living room, and several assorted other rooms. There are also two additional gas fireplaces in the house. The in-law apartment is nearly 1300 sq feet, and includes a fully equipped kitchen, full bath, dining room, walk in closet, and living room. This home is also equipped with two zone HVAC heat pumps, and almost each room has a dedicated 20 AMP, #12 wire outlet to accommodate personal electric heaters/ or AC. Also, there are propane gas outlets in most areas with free standing gas heaters. The home theatre is equipped with a 4 x 7 foot movie screen and 16 real vintage movie seats from the 1960s. Also, there is even built in storage for hundreds of DVD and VHS.Although the majority of the hardwood floors, tile and carpets are relatively new, the owner is willing to give back a $20,000 decorative allowance, a bonus to make any cosmetic changes.The kitchen is large, with it and the formal dining room having a full wall of 7 foot windows looking out into the yard, pond, and forest, and opening on to a large deck. In fact, the huge kitchen sink is a five foot long antique 1950s unit! Shows Well

How to Get the Most out of your Personal Property Taxes in 2008

2008-02-01T12:18:10Z

FINANCIAL TIDBITS

Feature Article: How to Get the Most out of your Personal Property Taxes in 2008

Can you believe it we are already 30 days into the 2008 Calendar Year! I often say to my husband, "Remember just yesterday when the school year seemed to last forever? When summertime seemed to last but for a few hours while you stayed outside until the street lights came on? When every time you turned a year older was milestone - a telling accomplishment!" Now, days turn into months and months into years in what seems like a nanosecond. Well even though I am a little older and time moves a little faster these days, I still look forward to a new day, a new season and most of all a new year. It is always refreshing to have an opportunity for exciting and favorable changes. What changes are you inclined to make this year? They say, ‘goals that are not written are just good thoughts' so do not stop today until you write them down and start making exciting and favorable changes.

At the MRE Group, you know we pride ourselves on making changes that benefit our client and customer base. One change that we will be implementing is in our E-Letters, once a quarter we will include some much-needed financial health reading. Yes, we are starting our own book club! We want our readers to be involved so please ask question, post information on our blog and most of all make suggestions on books you have read or are reading that have increased your financial health and well being. We are going to start this year with some wonderful reading from The Washington Post business section. We recommend the column brought to you each week by a young woman who is a financial guru, Michelle Singletary, she writes the column "The Color of Money". She has incredible insight and touches on every aspect of financial health at every stage of life. Regardless of whether you are a retiree or just embarking on life you can benefit enormously from this column. It is a necessary read. Therefore, start your change this week, pick up the Sunday Post, and be convicted to read the column.

The MRE Group would like to thank you for your continued support, and we hope to continue to remain your trusted choice in real estate and mortgage services. As always, if you have any home-related questions, or hear that any family, friends, or neighbors are interested in moving do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. Thank You.

Natalie Dean

Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor

Prince George's County Homeowners Alert!!!

**1/3 of all homeowners in Prince George's County just received their new assessment notices. You may want to remind your past clients that these assessments can be appealed but they only have until February 11^th to file any appeal.

Included in any new assessment notices is a Homestead Tax Credit Application. The property owner must fill out this Homestead Tax Credit Application to reverify that the property is their primary residence. This document must be filed by April 1, 2008.

If this form is not filed the county will consider the property to be a non principal residence. The homeowner will lose their homestead tax credit and will end up paying more transfer taxes in the event of a refinance.

For all other local area markets in need of information regarding your specific tax assessments, please email or call the MRE Group as we have specific criteria and would be happy to forward the information to you.

The New Year Brings New Excitement!

2008-02-01T10:53:40Z

There is something so exciting about purchasing a new home! There is a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that you have a place to call your own. But along with buying a new home comes what some might term as the dreaded responsibility of paying taxes. There are however many benefits in performing this task and one is that in reality homeownership is actually one of the best tax benefits one can ever attain. With tax time around the corner, we have included some useful information whether you're a veteran homeowner or a newbie at homeownership these tips can prove to be extremely resourceful.

10 tax tips for homebuyers

1. Welcome to Schedule A

2. Making the most of mortgage interest

3. Hang onto your HUD-1

4. Points pay off at tax time

5. The tax-deduction value of property taxes

6. Timing is everything

7. Other deductions, thanks to your home

8. What's not deductible

9. Not federal, but tax-related

10. Planning ahead

Hopefully this information gets you excited about the New Year, and all that it has to bring. I'm excited about the changes the 2008 calendar year is to bring my way! I have many goals on my horizon that I look forward to accomplishing. The most exciting one is that I will graduate from high school a major milestone in the life of a young person. This will afford me the ability to continue to work alongside the MRE Group in a greater capacity. Infusing additional knowledge of the real estate and mortgage industries along with the continued college education I will be receiving will be a match to allowing me to give greater service to the needs of the MRE Group cliental. We encourage you to visit us at: http://www.findyourdcmetrohousevalues.com/ to see our fantastic listings!

109 Water Fountain Way #102, Glen Burnie, MD 21060

2008-01-24T12:35:30Z

Price: $149,500

Bedrooms:2, Bathrooms:1

Description

Home shows well. The location is ground floor with a beautiful walk out patio, nice lighting and kitchen was updated prior to client purchasing the home.

Features

Central air	Electric heat	Forced air heat
Subdivision: CROMWELL FOUNTAIN	Living and dining room combo	Public sewer
Public water	Property style: Colonial	Condo dues: 165.0

What is Your Core- Find it in 2008

2008-01-03T14:22:27Z

Recently I was reading a newsletter of a highly respected business coach and she posed a challenge to all of her readers, "when do you feel most alive and what makes your heart sing". I translated this as what makes my core being - energized for the next day. Immediately many ideas and thoughts flooded my mind, but ultimately I had to settle on my peace my core comes when I'm reading meaningful memoirs and meditating on fond memories.

These areas allow for my own personal growth they make me whole. Like everyone, I don't have an extreme amount of time to practice these things but I've learned to celebrate all of my small accomplishments. You are probably like me you would love to find your core - get connected- find your synergy - feel most alive more often than you do. However, the times that you do accomplish such things, whatever they are, live in the moment and celebrate it to the fullest extent possible. So I pass the challenge "when do you feel most alive and what makes your heart sing", will you find it in 2008? I would love to hear so please share your thoughts.

Visit my website for exciting listings and other information

http://www.findmydcmetrohouse.com./

904 13th St. NE, Washington, DC 20002

2007-12-20T12:52:11Z

THIS LISTING IS FOR RENT!!!!

Price:$2,200

3 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms

This place is a real gem! If you are looking to live in Pulse of the City you just found it. Located in Capitol Hill off of Florida Ave this is stones throw to H Street;New York Avenue; Gall. Univ; Union Station. The property has been completely renovated for the choicest of individuals with all the bells and whistles and has OFF Street Parking a rare find in the city! Won't last.

Features

Washer	Washer/dryer hookup	Gas range
Gas oven	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Central air	Forced air heat	Natural gas heat
One car carport	Brick exterior	Lot acreage is: 0.02966
Subdivision: OLD CITY #1	Breakfast bar	Whirlpool
Wood floors	Public sewer	Public water
Property style: Federal

1836 METZEROTT RD #2024, HYATTSVILLE, MD 20783

2007-12-10T13:31:31Z

$1,800 THIS LISTING IS ALSO FOR RENT!!!!!!

Condo

2 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms Its All About You! Are you looking for a city living in the suburbs? Completely renovated it shows gorgeous. Double sink added to 2nd bath,new kitchen much more. 20th story view spectacular. Addt'l renov to bldg ie new facade & complete bldg overhaul. Sellers are ready to go! Rumor has it that the condo fee is set to be reduced over the next two year. SELLER HELP $5,100. RENT TO OWN POSSIBLE

"THE MARKET IS IN A DECLINE, THE BUBBLE HAS BURSTED, WILL I MAKE ANY MONEY BEFORE ITS ALL OVER?"

2007-11-30T10:47:36Z

As Real Estate and Mortgage Professionals, we constantly hear these statements from our perplexed homeowners and anxious buyers. With everyone having their eyes glued to CNN, C-NBC as well as numerous other media outlets that tout that real estate industry is in the gutter, many ask why the Metropolitan Real Estate Group stays in the game. Simple, with the market the way it is currently, investing in real estate can be a solid way to build equity both short and long term.

At the MRE Group, we have a range of investment vehicles that can assist you in making a smart purchasing decision. Many of us see this market and know that this is great time to invest in rental properties but do not want to be landlords, so now what we ask. Well you need guidance on how to purchase a home that has the highest ROI you can yield in the shortest span of time. As we move out of 2007 and into 2008 be resolved to do it differently and invest in your future and that of your family.

1836 METZEROTT RD #2024, HYATTSVILLE, MD 20783

2007-11-23T12:03:51Z

$170,000 Condo

2 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms

Its All About You! Are you looking for a city living in the suburbs? Completely renovated it shows gorgeous. Double sink added to 2nd bath,new kitchen much more. 20th story view spectacular. Addt'l renov to bldg ie new facade & complete bldg overhaul. Sellers are ready to go! Rumor has it that the condo fee is set to be reduced over the next two year. SELLER HELP $5,100.

Features

Washer	Gas range	Gas oven
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Central air
Forced air heat	Natural gas heat	Brick exterior
Balcony	Inground pool	Subdivision: PRESIDENTIAL
Garbage disposal	Public sewer	Public water
Property style: Colonial	Condo dues: 676.0

Positive Acumen for Consideration

2007-11-19T13:23:53Z

"Working alongside the MRE Group, I have learned a great deal regarding the sale of real estate and the mortgage industry. The organization has a business acumen that speaks to maintaining a personable but professional attitude at all times. They term it "Total Quality Excellence", utilizing a checks and balance system to ensure that every client is treated with such excellence. As the real estate and mortgage industries continue to adjust themselves, I have seen how this type of attention to detail in ensuring that you exceed your client's expectations is ever more important. It has become ever more increasing that the general public reads more and more about mortgage loans not being approved and properties not selling. The MRE Group continues to maintain this TQE so that every client is thrilled at their transactions end. This continues to help me to develop into a successful real estate consultant."

-Erica Ingram, Administrative Assistant for the MRE Group

An Interesting Principle to Live By!

2007-11-06T15:16:58Z

"In my reading of the book, "How to Win Friends and Influence People", I came across a principle that we all should live by. Dale Carnegie stated that we should "try honestly to see things from the other person's point of view." This is so important in any type of relationship including realtor/client relations. For the client and the realtor to successfully complete a transaction, there needs to be great communication between the two. Since the process of purchasing or selling real estate is a very emotional process, the realtor should carefully listen to the needs and concerns of the client. On the converse side of things, it would be wise for the client to listen to the realtor's point of view on matters because they not only have the expertise, but their interest at heart. If the realtor and client apply the above mentioned principle, they will have a smooth transaction where both parties are happy!"

-Olisi Johnson, Real Estate Consultant for the MRE Group

A New Technique for the Mortgage Industry

2007-10-26T11:40:16Z

"Interest cancellation is quickly becoming a major part of the U.S. mortgage industry. This process uses established banking rules to force down balances and payments on first mortgages. While relatively new here in the states, this technique is mainstream in Australia. I absolutely love, love, love this shift in thinking. It's time for people to take control of their financial lives. And what better way than to stop giving outrageous sums of money to mortgage companies (in the form of interest payments). Put your hard earned dollars to work for you in some type of investment to build for retirement and tell a friend that they too can cancel mortgage interest."

-Les Vinson, Mortgage Consultant

Helpful Tips to Keep From Decreasing the Value of Your Home

2007-10-22T14:52:17Z

Believe it or not a swimming pool actually does not raise the value of your home, it actually limits your market to sell. Also a bad roof is very detrimental in the sale of your home. A good roof is considered standard equipment, and if it has problems expect problems with selling your home.

2424 Llewelyn Ave Baltimore, MD 21213

2007-10-09T15:04:32Z

Price: $10,000

Investor Alert! Investor Alert! Sold ''AS IS'' Buyer to verify all infor including Ground Rent (If one exist seller will not redeem). Property is a shell and ready to be rehabbed. If you have any questions aout this property or any of my services please contact me.

8708 Deborah Street, Clinton, MD 20735

2007-10-09T13:49:01Z

Price: $380,000

Split Foyer Beauty! This is immaculate and ready for move in, look at the pictures. Homeowners have upgraded: New Windows(HE);New Boiler;New Gutters/Dwnspts;New Sump Pump;New Ext./Int. Drs;Upgraded BA Upp Lvl.;New sink/flr ll lvl BA;New Kitchen. Contingent on SFHOC; Two Sm Dogs but call before come (killer bites!)

Home includes: 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, and Finished Basement. Backs to a New Home Development where properties are selling for well over 550K, instant equity for the new homeowner! For further information please feel free to contact me.

How to Increase the Value of Your Home

2007-10-09T13:40:35Z

"Selling a home can be difficult in this market today. And the value of your home has a lot to do with the outcome. Here are two ways to increase the value of your home and two things that can decrease the value. An updated kitchen is important because today people like a big kitchen with lots of workspace, and newer appliances. Countertops and Cabinetry should be in good condition. This will definitely help your home to sell faster. A finished basement also adds more value! Now believe it or not a swimming pool does not raise the value of your home, it actually limits your market to sell. And finally a bad roof is very detrimental in the sale of your home. A good roof is considered standard equipment, and if it has problems expect problems with selling your home. Think long and hard about these things they may require some work on your home but it will be worth it when your home is sold!"

Erica Ingram, Administrative Assistant for the MRE Group