Montgomery County MD Real Estate Blog

Work Ethics: Where have all the dependable house cleaners gone?

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:28:54 -0600

With new listings chances are we would need a house cleaner. Right? I have had this issue now a few times. The cleaning women said it would take 2-3 days to clean the house!!! The first woman dragged it out for 3 days! Since I did not deal with her, it did not bother me as much. But now I have an out of the country owner and I would not accept this.

Since I have been cleaned my own homes for many years, I know how long it might take. Therefore, I find it very irritating that today in the DC Metro area house cleaners insist that it is a work of days not hours to clean an avarage vacant home that was cleaned by the painters and floor sanders already.

This might sound crazy, but I am almost tempted to clean the house myself to prove my point. I think this too is a case of scamming. These cleaning people who claim that they need days for the job, charge by the hour and assume the agents are rich and have not cleaned a home for years.

What is happening to work ethics in the US???

Simone Bercu
CRS, GRI, e-PRO Associate Broker
Bethesda MD Real Estate | Potomac MD Real Estate
Serving Montgomery County Maryland & Washington DC

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My Rental on 9918 Marquette Drive was "highjacked" by scammers: Watch Out for Scams on Craigslist!

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 17:06:57 -0600

I just got a call from a woman who saw on Craigslist that 9918 Marquette Drive, could be available for $1,000. The post stated that for $1,000 she could get the keys to the house, since "the owners are in Africa". She mentioned that they had even the interior pictures! To her that was a sign that the home was theirs. She did not think that they can easily pick any pictures off the Internet, once the legitimate owners or agents advertise a property.

The woman was very upset that her child and she would not have a home by Christmas. I told her that she was lucky that she did not follow her first impulse to send the money to these scammers.

I reported this to Craigslist, but how do we make sure that consumers do not fall for such scames???

1713 Mark Lane, Rockville, MD 20852 Undergoing Professional Painting

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:45:40 -0600

1713 Mark Lane, Rockville, MD 20852 Undergoing Professional Painting...will be ready for Open House on Sunday December 13, 2009, 1-4 PM .

We had the home inspected and made all the home inspector's suggested improvements. The buyer of this home can feel good about getting a home that is ready for move in, has had a home owner warranty for the last 6 years, at least, and is sparkling clean.

Some of the Additional New Features: Sliding Glass Doors, Vanity, Kitchen Faucet, Light Fixtures, Ceramic Tiled Foyer, Resurfaced Hardwood Floors, and Professional Painting.

Renovated Homes for RENT IN BETHESDA

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:48:54 -0600

Renovated Home with Landscaped, Fenced Yard

Meticulously cleaned painted and updated.

Three level home with all rooms above ground. Three bedrooms upstairs and one in the lower level. Hardwood on the first and second floors. Lower Level has ceramic tiles, a bright renovated bath and a separate entrance. A New Gourmet Kitchen is under way! Great location near shopping, restaurants, parks, public transportation and more...Priced at $2,950

Two additional homes could be available at $2800-$3,500

1713 Mark Lane, Rockville MD: Public Open House November 22, 2009

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:11:15 -0600

1713 Mark Lane, Rockville MD: Public Open House November 22, 2009, 1:00 to 4:00 pm

Seller has done some nice updates such as new ceramic tile in the foyer, new sliding glass doors in the livingroom, painting, plus a vanity with sink and fixtures in one bathroom.

Located in the very desirable Montrose Community where one is close to parks,public transportation, shopping, community centers, art and music center, excellent schools and major highways.

The home has been reduced and improved and now is listed for $545,000.

The Joy of a Successful Deal

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:51:39 -0500

Last night, I drove by a former office building in Riverdale, MD, that I sold to a commercial agent. Wow ,was I impressed! the building stood there forlorn for a long time and now it is busteling with commerce. The tenant he bought it for is just perfect for this property.

At a time when we are all so concerned about the lack of business, this place is full of customers. My friend and I joined in and bought food products that looked good and were priced way better than the same goods at Giant or other local stores.

I was proud to know that I had a part in this happening. This is capitalism at its best. No one stood around waiting for the government to create the jobs or give them a handout.

Mushroom Fair and Meeting in Chevy Chase, MD

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:15:50 -0500

If you were not one of the 800 visitors this past Sunday, do not fret. Our next Mushroom Fair will take place again October 2010.

It was a great success. We had lectures, cooking demonstrations and even a Foray in the local woods.

I bought a log innaculated with Shiitake Mushrooms. Cannot wait to watch them grow and enjoy the delicious "meaty texture and woodsy flavors."

Tonight, the Maryland Mycology Association is having a mushroom tasting event at the Connecticut Avenue Library in Chevy Chase from 7-9 PM. Non members are welcome, as long as they become members. Give it a try.

1418 Longfellow Street, NW, Washington, DC: First Open House October 18, 2009

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 07:29:29 -0500

First Open House October 18, 2009! Seller spared no expense to create a beautiful home on a quiet tree lined street. Gourmet Kitchen with Granite Counters, Stainless Steel Kitchen Aid Appliances. Two Zones A/C.

Click here for more information on this beautiful home!

Wyngate, Bethesda Market Update September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:05:08 -0500

Wyngate, Bethesda is located East of Fernwood Road and North of Greentree. There are 422 homes in Wyngate. Some of the homes are Ramblers, some are Cape Cods and some Colonial. There are contemporary homes, renovated homes and new Colonial homes.

Presently, there are 3 homes on the market. Two are original homes listed from $559,000-$699,000.

Days on market range from 48 day to 189 days.

There is 1 new home with six bedrooms and Six bath priced at $1,399,900. This home has been on the market 242 days.

Four homes listed from $450,000 to $675,000 are under contract.

Wyngate's absorption rate dropped to minus one month from the high of 10 months in early May!

Wyngate is a popular destination for first time home buyers and the move up buyer looking for new homes.

Sonoma, Bethesda Market Update September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:51:12 -0500

Sonoma, Bethesda is located West of Old Georgetown and North of Suburban Hospital. There are 119 homes in the community.

Presently, there are no homes on the market!

There are no homes under contract.

The last home sold in Sonoma in May for $500,750.

Buyers need homes in Sonoma! This would be a great time to list your home if you live in the Sonoma community.

Sixteenth Street Heights, Washington DC Absorption Rate September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:40:39 -0500

Sixteenth Street Heights, Washington DC is a large community of single family homes, duplexes, rowhouses, American Craftsman and American Foursquare homes in Northwest Washington, DC. The community borders Columbia Heights, Crestwood, Park View, Petworth Brightwood and Brightwood Park.

Presently there are 13 homes on the market. They range from $514,900 to $1,149,000.

There are 4 homes under contract. These homes are listed under $500,000.

The absorption rate for Sixteenth Street Heights is 3.25 months

Ayrlawn, Bethesda Market Update September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:24:28 -0500

Ayrlawn, Bethesda is located West of Old Georgetown Road and North of Greentree Road.

Presently, there is one new listing on the market at $699,000. It is a Cape Cod with a detached garage.

There are 3 newer Colonial homes priced at $1,150,000, $1,200,000 and $1,325,00. They have been on the market from 41-179 days.

There are no homes under contract.

Ayrlawn absorption rate is 4 months, This represents an increase in inventory since the middle of June.

Hendry Estates, Bethesda Market Update September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:08:04 -0500

The Hendry Estates community borders the Ayrlawn community. They are situated West of Old Georgetown Road and North of Greentree Road.

There are 187 homes, and presently there is One (1) Colonial home on the market. It was built in 2005 with Five (5) bedrooms and Five (5) baths. Priced after 312 days on the market at $1,130,000.

There are no homes Under contract.

Hendry Estates has an absorption rate of 1 month.

Alta Vista Terrace, Bethesda Market Update September 29, 2009

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:01:02 -0500

Alta Vista Terrace, Bethesda is located North of Greentree and West of Old Georgetown Road. The community is made up of 250 homes.

Presently, there is one brick colonial home on the market. The home has been on the market for 34 days. It is listed for $899,000

There is one Rancher home under contract listed at $439,990. This home was on the market 3 days! It requires renovations, or could be a fine building lot at this price.

The absorption rate at Alta Vista Terrace is 1 month! This community continues to be hot!

As I noted before, Alta Vista Terrace and its neighboring Ayrlawn, Hendry Estates, Wyngate, Oakmont, Devonshire and Sonoma are popular communities where homes do sell when priced right. A first time buyer can find a reasonable $500,000+ home.

This month, a first time home buyer could have gotten a home for under $500,000, in Alta Vista Terrace, Bethesda!

Mushroom Fair at Brookside Gardens

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:08:28 -0500

If you love mushrooms, as I do, this is your opportunity to learn a lot about the subject.

This is how I discovered the DC Mycology Association a few years ago, have attended interesting lectures, forays, and met new interesting individuals. Unfortunately, the fair is on a Sunday afternoon when I am planning to have an Open House.

Here is the basic information:

When: Sunday, October 4th, 2009, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Who: The Mycological Association of Washington

Where: Visitors Center of Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., in Wheaton, MD.

What: Seventh annual Mushroom Fair. Some of the activities planned are forays, lectures, wild mushroom identification, raffles, cooking demonstration, book sales, arts & crafts and more. The Fair is open to the public. Come and spend an enjoyable time learning about mushrooms!

We hope you can make it.

1418 Longfellow Street, NW, Washington, DC: Renovation is Almost Finished!

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 21:21:52 -0500

1418 Longfellow Street, NW, Washington, DC:

The seller has created a high quality renovation with attention to the smallest details.

He picked the finest materials and unique luxurious fixtures. A buyer who knows and appreciates quality would certainly appreciate living in such a home.

This week, the long awaited landscaping will start. The main objective is to create as care free an environment as possible for a home owner that would require only basic maintenance with maximum utility and enjoyment.

Plans for the gardens include a native garden, shade garden, edible berries, fig trees and ornamental bushes.

Imagine years of delight when you stroll through your gardens and gather your delicious fruits.

Click here to view full listing details!

Fireweed in Hoonah, Alaska

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:47:26 -0500

Early morning fog in Hoonah.

Cruising to Alaska

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:27:25 -0500

I am finally experimenting with inserting photography on ActiveRain. In the past, it seemed more complicated.

Could I create an album of pictures???

Do Insurance Agents Need an Appraisel to Determine Replacement Cost?

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 20:13:52 -0500

I was surprised to get a request for an appraiser or a contractor to provide cost estimates for an insurance agent. The agents I worked with never suggested to me to get them such information.

Is this common practice?

Alta Vista Terrace, Bethesda Market Update June 19, 2009

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:24:42 -0500

Alta Vista Terrace, Bethesda is located North of Greentree and West of Old Georgetown Road. The community is made up of 250 homes.

Presently, there are no homes on the market.

There are Five homes under contract listed at $549,000 to $1,250,000. These homes were on the market from 9-39 day!

The absorption rate at Alta Vista Terrace is minus 5 months! This community is hot!

As I noted before, Alta Vista Terrace and its neighboring Ayrlawn, Hendry Estates, and Sonoma are popular communities where homes do sell when priced right and a first time buyer can find a reasonable $500,000+ home.

Hendry Estates, Bethesda Market Update June 19, 2009

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:14:47 -0500

The Hendry Estates community borders the Ayrlawn community. They are situated West of Old Georgetown Road and North of Greentree Road.

There are 187 homes, and presently there is One (1) Colonial home on the market. It was built in 2005 with Five (5) bedrooms and Five (5) baths. Priced after 209 days on the market at $1,160,000.

Under contract in 7 days, is a rambler with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Hendry Estates has an absorption rate of 1 month.

Ayrlawn, Bethesda Market Update June 19, 2009

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:51:09 -0500

Ayrlawn, Bethesda is located West of Old Georgetown Road and North of Greentree Road.

Presently, there are Four homes on the market. Of the Six older homes One is in its origional condition and Five are renovated. Their prices range from $539,000 to $674,000.

There are Two newer Colonial homes priced at $1,298,500 (built 2005)and $1,450,000 (to be built). Days on market are 662 and 76 days respectively.

There are Two homes under contract. They were priced at $575,000 (273 days on market) and $674,000 (38 days on market).

Ayrlawn absorption rate is 2 months, down from 8 months in early May.

Sonoma, Bethesda Market Update June 19, 2009

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:22:27 -0500

Sonoma, Bethesda is located West of Old Georgetown and North of Suburban Hospital. There are 119 homes in the community.

Presently, there is one Cape Cod home with Three bedroom Two bath on the market. The 1938 home is priced at $699,000 and has some updates. It has been listed for the last 434 days.

There are no homes under contract.

Sonoma's absorption rate in One month.

Wyngate, Bethesda Market Update June 19, 2009

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:17:13 -0500

Presently, there are Six homes on the market. Four are original homes listed from $450,000-$620,000.

Days on market range from 42 day to 424 days.

There are Two new homes: One has Five bedroom Five bath priced at $1,375,000 and one with six bedrooms and Six bath priced at $1,399,900. Both homes had a price reduction.

Four homes listed from $499,999 to $999,000 are under contract.

Wyngate's absorption rate dropped to 1 1/2 months from 10 months at the begining of May.

The absorption rate for all Single Family homes in Bethesda is 3.88 months, as of June 18, 2009.

Why is the Best Value in Leisure World Still on the Market?

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 17:03:09 -0500

I know that there are lots of apartments for sale in Leisure World, but 15100 Glade Drive 11 1-C a two bedroom two bath at $115,500, is the lowest priced apartment with over 1,200 square feet! The next one is priced at $134,000, and much much higher.

We had at least one showing a week in the last 90 days, but no offer, yet.

There must be someone out there who appreciates a great buy!