Monica's Beach Blog

Average Sales Price - Which "Average" Do You Want?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:09:34 -0600

During my daily travels, I am asked quite frequently what is the "average price" for a property in Ocean City. Well, first we need to qualify the word average.

The average single family home. The average condominium. The average townhouse or multi family building.... Now we need to qualify where is this property situated? Is it directly on the oceanfront or just steps to the beach, but with no view? Is it on the bay with a boat dock right at your back door, or is it a little beach cottage that doesn't share any common amenities like a pool or tennis court?

Oh...how about how big is the property? Does it have one, two, three, four or more bedrooms? See what I mean? Not such an easy question to answer. I can respond to these many different questions, but with just as many different answers.

Going to share a little secret. Here is probably the question I am asked the most. What is the average price for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condominium that is directly on the oceanfront in Ocean City, Maryland?

Here is that answer. Year to date as published through our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) that wonderful gem of a property is on average, $374,305.

See how easy that was! Question asked and answered!

If you have a more specific question that you would like to ask me, feel free. Drop me an email or pick up the phone.

My best from the Beach!

Great News For Property Buyers

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:02:46 -0600

Many new incentives to purchase property have been added into law with the legislation passed by President Obama on November 6th, 2009.

If you have been fence sitting. Jump off now! Don't miss the boat. There are too many incredible property values out there.

View all the details. WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Demand for New Loans Are Up!

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 09:48:03 -0500

Demand for New Loans Up as Rates Hold Below 5%

Oct 8th, 2009

Mortgage rates held below 5 percent for the third consecutive week helping refinance and purchase loan demand increase, according to a weekly report released by the Mortgage Bankers Association yesterday morning. The MBA said, in the week ending October 2, 2009, the average mortgage rate for 30-year fixed rate loan fell to 4.89 percent from 4.94 percent (avg points of .70) in the previous week. That in combination with the soon to expire $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers helped mortgage application volume increase by 16.4 percent.

The refinance index increased 18.2 percent from the previous week to the highest level seen since May while the purchase index rose 13.2 percent from one week earlier, putting the index at its highest level since January.

Of particular note, the government purchase index is at a record level after a 14.4 percent increase from the week before.

Last week the FHFA (Federal Housing Finance Agency) reported on the delinquencies in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's portfolios. In that report they stated the following regarding their portfolios:

"The number of delinquent first-lien residential mortgages with credit score at origination of 660 or higher increased, while mortgages with less than 660 credit score at origination decreased. The increase in the number of loans with 660 or higher credit score and decrease in loans with less than 660 credit score at origination reflect actions taken by both Enterprises to increase the credit quality of new business and continues a trend seen over the past year."

This further illustrates that borrowers with higher risk credit profiles are more likely to utilize government lending programs instead of conventional loan programs. Given the state of the labor market and tight credit conditions, it is expected that many borrowers will continue to rely on the FHA for home financing needs

Mortgage Rates Down Slightly

NATIONAL RATE SURVEY RESULTS (10/08/2009 Results)

30-year Conv:          5.22% -- w/ avg. points: 0.34 pts

15-year Conv:          4.60% -- w/ avg. points: 0.34 pts

30-year FHA:           5.13% -- w/ avg. points: 0.12 pts

5-year ARM:            4.66% -- w/ avg. points: 0.34 pts

PHH DAILY RATE CHANGES – LAST 10 BUSINESS DAYS

Date                       Conventional                                        FHA

10/08                     Slightly Lower                        Slightly Lower

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.18

10/07                     Relatively Unchanged             Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.25 and closes at 3.18

10/06                     Relatively Unchanged             Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.20 and closes at 3.25

10/05                     Slightly Higher                        Slightly Higher

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.20 and closes at 3.22

10/02                     Slightly Lower                         Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.16 and closes at 3.11

10/01                     Slightly Lower                         Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.29 and closes at 3.17

10/01 (2)                Lower                                      Lower

- Stocks continues to slide lower and bonds gain strength

9/30                       Relatively Unchanged             Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.30 and closes at 3.30

9/29                       Slightly Higher                        Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.30 and closes at 3.29

9/28                       Relatively Unchanged              Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.33 and closes at 3.30

9/28 (2)                 Slightly Lower                          Lower

- Stocks end up mixed and bonds benefit

9/25                       Relatively Unchanged              Relatively Unchanged

10 Year Treasury Yield opens at 3.39 and closes at 3.33

RATE FORECAST

Will rates rise or remain relatively unchanged?

Industry experts and analysts provide their insights.

14% of respondents expect rates to fall in the coming weeks

29% predict a further increase in mortgage rates while the remaining

57% forecast that mortgage rates will remain more or less unchanged

Once again, many thanks to Paul Soule of Coldwell Banker Home Loans for this information. If you have any questions for Paul, he is always happy to assist. he can reached at 800-517-6687.

October Calendar of Events - Ocean City, Md.

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:31:11 -0500

There is so much happening at the beach this fall. Instead of writing it all down. I thought I'd take it a month at a time and just tell you about it!!!

Check it out!

SunFest 2009 in Ocean City Maryland was GREAT!

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:10:26 -0500

I am so glad that you were able to attend Sunfest. Our family have enjoyed going for years. Come back and see us at the beach real soon.

Via James & Amy Galligan (Keller Williams Realty):

SunFest in Ocean City Maryland has been going on for 35 fun filled years & my family has made it into a girls weekend with no husbands & no kids :)

I was unable to attend the previous years that they have went to SunFest but this year I needed to get away for a few days & SunFest sounded perfect!

The large variety of crafters, artists & novelty vendors filled many large tents & numerous outdoor vendors as well... You could buy leather goods, childrens games & buckets, Christmas Ornaments, Stone Turtles & Stone Mushrooms for outdoors, the Patio Flame & so many creative & talented artists everywhere... The Village People also performed but we missed that show.

The picture to the right is from our bacony down around 33rd street & the ocean... The night air was cool & breezy but all in all it was a mild weekend... My sister & I just sat on the balcony in the evening & listened to the waves crash along the shore... There were not too many poeple around like in June when we were here so it was like having your own personal beach view!

We took advantage of some great deals on creative items for Christmas presents & hope to make it there again next year for at least an Orange Cream Smoothie or the Strawberry Banana Smoothie... (see Pictures)





For More Info about SunFest go to: http://www.atlanticbreezes.com/sunfest.htm

Friday's Fotos -- Sunset at Ocean City, MD

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 07:14:29 -0500

I've seen an Ocean City sunset a zillion times and it always takes my breath away!

Via Marney Kirk, Towson, Maryland Real Estate (Keller Williams Excellence Realty):

Taken with my Iphone!!!! in the gazebo at Fager's Island, during the Sunset Ceremony, 60th St and the Bay, Ocean City, Maryland.

For any real estate needs in Towson, Maryland or around the Baltimore Metropolitan area,

THINK MARNEY IN MARYLAND!

Marney Kirk

Keller Williams Excellence Realty

1850 York Road, Suite K

Timonium, MD 21093

E-nail: realtormarney@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.realtormarney.com

Office: 410-560-5858

Ocean City Market Trends - September 2009

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:44:05 -0500

The median sales price for homes in Ocean City MD for May 09 to Jul 09 was $285,000. This represents a decline of 14.2%, or $47,000, compared to the prior quarter and a decrease of 16.4% compared to the prior year. Sales prices have depreciated 5% over the last 5 years in Ocean City.

The average listing price for Ocean City homes for sale on Trulia was $463,538 for the week ending Aug 26, which represents an increase of 0%, or $114, compared to the prior week and a decline of 1.2%, or $5,476, compared to the week ending Aug 05. Average price per square foot for Ocean City MD was $209, a decrease of 33.7% compared to the same period last year.

View the graphs below:

What happens when a lender can’t produce the original note?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:43:28 -0500

This is an incredibly valuable article regarding foreclosure defense that may assist homeowners retain their homes. I did not even know about these legal requirements.

A "Must Read"!

Via Rick Misitano (Law Offices of James M. Bosco & Associates):

A growing number of homeowners around the country are using a foreclosure defense that may help them retain their homes. It’s called “Produce the Note” and we want you to know this is not a mere technicality that should be treated lightly by the lender or by the Court.

Everyone needs to understand the importance of this issue. When a lender can’t produce the original note, allowing a foreclosure to proceed puts the homeowner at risk of owing that debt again to another party in the future. Therefore, great caution must be taken before a judge can allow someone who can’t produce the original note to cash in on your home.

What if Your Lender CAN’T Produce the Note?

So, what happens when the lender tells the Court it can’t produce the original note, because it is lost? Let’s start with the basics. If a lender wants to foreclose on a property, it has to be able to show that it is, in fact, the appropriate person to whom the money is owed. That right to foreclose belongs ONLY to the person who has legitimate POSSESSION OF THE ORIGINAL NOTE - not a copy, not an electronic entry, but the original note itself with the original signature of the person(s) who allegedly owes the money along with appropriate raised notary seal and signature. So, if you are faced with a foreclosure, you have every right to demand that the person or entity trying to take your property, first prove to the Court that they have the legal right do to so in the first place by proving they have legal possession of the original promissory note.

In my opinion, an original mortgage note is much like legal tender and should be guarded and protected as such by the person holding such an asset. Loosing an original mortgage note is like loosing a $100 bill or a gift card or a lottery ticket. What if I scratched that million dollar ticket and just stuck it somewhere and misplaced it? Do you think I could just show up at lottery headquarters and claim my prize without having the winning ticket? The same principle applies to the person or entity claiming to be the legal holder of an original mortgage note. He who holds the note holds the key.

What the Lender Must Do

What often happens, however, is that the lender claims it doesn’t have the original note, because that note has been lost or destroyed. If the lender is making such a claim, the law requires the lender to prove all of the following under the “Uniform Commercial Code”, which is a set of laws governing commercial transactions that many states have adopted. It contains a specific provision on this subject (Section 3-309) which states that a person can enforce a promissory note without having the original, BUT only under certain limited circumstances.

1. The person or entity has to swear and attest that it no longer has the original note;
2. The person or entity has to prove that it was properly in possession of the note and was entitled to enforce it WHEN it lost possession of the note;
3. The person or entity has to prove it didn’t “lose” possession simply because it transferred the note to someone else (i.e., it’s not really lost); and
4. The person or entity has to prove that it cannot produce the original note because the instrument was destroyed or its whereabouts cannot be determined or it was stolen by someone who had no right to it.

All of these matters have to be definitively proven by the person or entity trying to foreclose on the property. It is not the obligation of the borrower to prove or disprove any of this. The borrower can challenge the right of the person or entity trying to foreclose and demand proof.

The Court’s Important Role

It is up to the Court to determine whether the lender has satisfactorily proven why it no longer can produce the original note. The Court also has to be satisfied that when the original note was lost, the person trying to foreclose on the property had possession of the note at the time it was lost. Until the Court has been satisfied of all of this, the foreclosure cannot proceed.

It is also important for the Court itself to understand that this issue is not merely a “technicality” and the judge should not be satisfied with anything less than full proof of this issue. The Court itself needs to appreciate the fact that if it should agree that an original note has been legitimately lost (and allows the foreclosure to proceed) it is the borrower who is still at risk.

Why? Because incredibly, even if a Court has found that the original note is lost and the foreclosure sale is finalized, if someone later turns up with the original note and proves that it is the proper holder of the note, and not the person who foreclosed on the property, the original borrower is STILL LIABLE.

That’s right. Someone took your home and the Court allowed it because it believed that the lender proved that the note was lost and it was the proper party. Then someone legitimate shows up in the future with the actual note and you still owe that person the money even though your property was taken with the blessing of the Court. Trust me, this is a very serious issue regarding post foreclosures and post pre-foreclosure short-sales. It has happened to three of our own clients! These homeowners had the need to sell their property by means of a negotiated short-sale (so they could avoid a foreclosure) only to find out that the entity claiming to have the legal right and authority to enter into such negotiations and accept such settlements sold their note to another entity and weren’t even aware of it. Several months later, the newly assigned lenders (now claiming to be the rightful owners of our client’s original notes) have since come forward and have also filed suite seeking to recover their entire outstanding principle balances owed to them (prior to the homeowners closing their short-sale transactions with the wrong note holders).

How fair is that?!?! It’s not! And that’s why homeowners need to start fighting back when someone is trying to take their home by foreclosure, especially since an overwhelming percentage of mortgages granted over the last 3 to 5 years have been packaged into securities and re-sold and re-assigned numerous times since the inception of the borrower's original note and mortgage. In some states, homeowners have better than a 50/50 chance of being successful in defending themselves against a completed foreclosure. Why wouldn’t anyone who owns a home do everything in their power to protect and defend it?

All the Best,

Rick D. Misitano, Senior Paralegal
Law Offices of James M. Bosco & Associates
Methuen Executive Park
240 Pleasant Street
Methuen, Massachusetts 01844
Phone: (978) 687-8804
Fax: (978) 687-8872
boscolaw@comcast.net

Ocean City's White Marlin Tournament

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:26:52 -0500

It's to major of an event not to know about. Ocean City, Maryland plays host once again to the largest billfish tournament in the "world".

It began in 1974 and has since grown to be a hugely successful annual tournament. It starts this Monday August 3rd and runs thru Friday August 7th.

You have got to check out the "White Marlin Tournament".

Welcome Ocean City Maryland Talk Blog

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:22:23 -0500

Happy Birthday to Monica's Beach Blog.

On July 1^st, 2008 my first blog site was born. Happy 1^st Birthday! However, being me, I am always looking for new and exciting ways to make things even better. I know what....My blog deserves a makeover…...perfect.

My blog has been made over, and I am launching it today in honor of the birthday celebration! You know everybody needs to get freshened up now and then! Please welcome "Ocean City Maryland Talk"!

As always, my blog will be chock full of great information having anything and everything about Ocean City, Maryland…… Fun happenings at the beach, special events, concerts, news, great restaurant scoops, sporting events and much more.

Welcome “Ocean City Maryland Talk”. I’m excited…come and check out my “new look”. I hope you’ll find all the resources that you will need for fun times and news at the Beach!

Let the Sun Shine…oh baby… let the Sun Shine In!!!

My Pilates Buddies

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:19:39 -0500

I take a Pilates class in my hometown of Ocean City, Maryland. I love Pilates, but what I think I like the most about it are the others that share my pain, and make me laugh while we are contorting our bodies into somewhat unusual positions in the ongoing pursuit of staying in shape.

Our little group got together for an evening - no Pilates that night...and shared some munchies, cocktails and camaraderie. I do regret that we snapped this photo so late in the evening that many had left and are not pictured. But for us troopers that like to hang out and party, our faces appear!!!

Thanks to all I share this class with, and to our fearless leader Shannon, all who make my day a little bit brighter on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and the occasional Saturday.

Having Your Property For Sale And Rent?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:44:09 -0500

It's not uncommon in a resort like Ocean City, Maryland to have a property listed for sale as well as being a summer weekly or mini week rental.

As a sales agent, we can only show the property when it is not occupied, or between the check out and check in time of the new tenant. It does make for a lot of moving around quickly, mostly on Saturday's and Sunday's. The typical times we can show property on these days is from 11:00am until 2:00pm.

During the summer months when a condo or home is simultaneously listed for sale and rent, we as real estate sales agents can not put an electronic lockbox on the property. I understand that. Most tenants are concerned that someone may walk in on them unannounced.

Something a prospective buyer should keep in mind if looking to purchase a beach condo during this time...the rental income will go to the buyer's from the time they settle on the property. It helps to get some cash coming in right from the beginning.

Ocean City, MD - Market Trends

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:43:16 -0500

The median sales price for properties in Ocean City, MD for March 2009 to May 2009 was $300,000. That represents an increase of 13.1%, or $34,750, compared to the prior quarter and a decrease of 8% compared to the prior year. Sales prices have appreciated 11.2% over the last 5 years in Ocean City.

The average listing price for Ocean City, MD properties for sale as reported by Trulia was $484,533 for the week ending 06.10.09, which represents a decline of 1.9%, or $9,461, compared to the prior week and a decline of 0.8%, or $4,105, compared to the week ending 05.20.09.

View these graphs below:

Ocean City Homes For Sale

Let's Stimulate The Right Things

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:05:08 -0500

Yeh! If these recommendations can be implemented it will be just what the housing market has needed to stimulate a recovery. I know the process can be long and arduous, but I applaud the efforts of those trying to make it happen, and we need to lend them our support.

There was a business roundtable held that was chaired by the Realogy CEO, Richard Smith, and comprised of chief executive officers of leading U.S. corporations. On June 10^th, 2009, this group issued a set of recommendations for the White House and Congress, that are aimed at jumpstarting the housing market in order to stimulate a broader economic recovery.

Their recommendations are as follows:

*Keep mortgage interest rates at historically low levels (below 5%) for at least one year;

*Expand the current First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit incentive from the lesser of 10% of the purchase price of the home or $8000 to a higher limit of either 10% or $15000 for ALL homebuyers, and remove the income restrictions and include all primary residences for one full year;

*Conduct a thorough review of current foreclosure mitigation and loan modification programs in light of rising loan modification re-default rates;

*Make permanent the current temporary conforming loan limits;

*Continue to review and strengthen government efforts already underway to review and refine mortgage lending practices.

This group believes, and I agree, that targeted, demand-side solutions will provide a critical next step for a housing recovery that will help create jobs and boost the economy as a whole.

Wait for rates to come down? I don't think so !!!

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:54:06 -0500

After last weeks' spike in interest rates, we thought we would see a pullback. That was not the case... in fact, rates pushed a bit higher. Bankrate's national survey had 30yr fixed rates averaging 5.65% and 15yr fixed rates average at 5.06%.

Has the mortgage rate boat sailed too far from shore for those still looking to purchase? Absolutely not! This time last year, Bankrate's national survey averaged 6.26% for 30yr fixed. The problem is borrowers become fixated on what they could have had a few weeks ago. It's irrational to continue thinking that way because there is nothing that can be done to change the situation. The logical approach is... where do I go from here?

NAR (National Association of REALTORS) reports pending sales increased 6.7% in April, the biggest jump in 8 years. Factory orders rebounded .7% after a decline of .9% the month before. The U.S. lost fewer jobs than was forecast in May - 345,000 the least in the past 8 months. All this could be signs that the deepest recession in half a century is abating.

The point is... we should make decisions based on the reality of the current situation forward. There is nothing we can do about last week's mortgage rates. We can only consider rates from this point forward... which are still excellent! The same decision applies to home prices. Many people who want to sell are anchored to the price at which they bought... even if it has no basis in economic reality. And the reality is... prices are darn low, which is why we think potential buyers shouldn't wait too long to pull the trigger... lest they suffer the same fate that many borrowers are!

EVERY MARKET'S DIFFERENT, CALL A REALTOR® TODAY.

Call KEVIN or MONICA MCNAMARA for more information.

877-480-7653 / 410-524-6111

MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com

GREAT BUYS AT THE BEACH

#12H Harbour Club          #105 Oceanwalk
120th St - Bayside        118th St - Oceanfront

2BR/2BA                              1BR/1.5BA
Indoor/Outdoor Pools      Direct Beach Access

$ 289,900                            $ 254,900

Assateaque Island - Day At The Beach

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 16:21:06 -0500

I spent the day Sunday on the beach at Assateaque Island just south of Ocean City, Maryland on the Delmarva Peninsula.

It's just beautiful. The ponies of Assateaque will walk right up to you on the beach. You are not supposed to feed or touch them since they are wild ponies, it's kind of hard to resist though.

Assateaque beach does have lifeguards, so you can swim in protected areas. There is also short and long term camping facilities. Many an evening I have spent further south on the Island on the part where 4 wheel drive vehicles are allowed on the beach. Big bonfires, grills a going, music blaring and lots of friends. We have a blast.

It's also pretty cool to drive onto the beach during the day, bring your fishing poles, all your stuff to stay for the day, and hang out until dark for bonfire time.

The quality of life here on the Eastern Shore is second to none. I am very blessed.

Great Buy at the Shore!

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:11:49 -0500

#715 East of the Sun, Fenwick Island, DE

First floor 2BR/2BA condominium overlooks a canal from private screened porch. Enjoy bay views from the 2nd bedroom and from your front door. Short walk to the community pool & tennis court and nearby restaurants. Recently installed tile & hardwood floors, appliances, kitchen counters, fans, and light fixtures. Outside storage. Priced to sell !!! A great buy for your starter "home" or for your long awaited beach retreat ! Call KEVIN or MONICA MCNAMARA today to get started -- 877-480-7653!!!

SEE MORE PICTURES VIDEO TOUR

Restaurant Week in Ocean City, Maryland

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 10:11:37 -0500

It's time again this year to enjoy some of the fine restaurant's Ocean City has to offer in this week long culinary experience. From May 31, - Jun 7, 2009, many spectacular restaurants will offer a special fixed-price three course dinner menu for just $30 and/or a two course menu for $20.

Come on down to the beach. Soak up the sun, walk the boardwalk and have some great meals! Bon appétit,

You don't have to get a ticket or a coupon to participate. Visit www.OceanCityRestaurantWeek.com for more information.

Restaurant:	Address:	Phone:	Menus:	Chef:
32 Palm - Hilton Suites	3200 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-2525
BJ's on the Water	75th Street on the Bay, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-524-7575
Embers Restaurant	24th & Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842	(410) 289-3322 (888) 436-2377
Fresco's Fine Dining	82nd St. on the Bay, Ocean City, MD 21842	410.524.8202		Pino Tomasello
Galaxy 66 Bar & Grille	66th Street & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-723-6762
Happy Jack Pancake House	25th & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	(410) 289-7377
Harpoon Hanna's Restaurant & Tiki Bar Make A Reservation Now.	142nd Street on the Bay, Ocean City, MD 21842	800-227-0525
Harrison's Harbor Watch Restaurant & Raw Bar	Boardwalk South Overlooking the Inlet, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-5121
Hemingway's at the Coral Reef	Located in the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites - 17th St. & Ocean, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-2612		Ron Brobst
Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant - Clarion Resort Hotel	101st Street on the beach, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-524-3535 800-638-2100		Alain Carrette & Robert Bedell
J/R's Ribs	locations at 62nd Street & 131st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842	(410) 524-7427 and 250-3100
Jules Restaurant	118th Street & Coastal Hwy in the Food Lion Plaza, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-524-3396		Julius Adam Sanders
Macky's Bayside Bar & Grill	54th & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-723-5565		Michael
Marlin Moon Grille	12806 Ocean Gateway - in the Francis Scott Key Main Lodge, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-213-1618 1-866-213-DINE		Gary Beach
Olive Tree Restaurant	127th Street & Coastal Hwy beside Holiday Inn Express, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-250-8008		The Olive Tree Family
Phillips By The Sea Restaurant	1301 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-9121 800-492-5834
Phillips Crab House	2004 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-6821 800-549-2722
Phillips Seafood House	141st Street & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-250-1200
Reflections Restaurant	6600 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-524-5252 800-837-3588
Ristorante Antipasti	31st & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-289-4588		Fausto DiCarlo
Seacrets	49th & the Bay, Ocean City, MD 21842	(410) 524-4900
Season's in The Carousel	11700 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842	(410) 524-1000 (800) 641-0011
Sunset Grille	12933 Sunset Avenue West Ocean City, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-213-8110
The Bonfire Restaurant	71st St. & Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842	410-524-7171
The Hobbit Restaurant	81st Street overlooking the Bay, Ocean City , MD 21842	410-524-8100
The Shark on the Harbor	12924 Sunset Ave. (on the commercial fishing harbor), Ocean City, MD 21842	410-213-0924

Legend:
	- dinner menu available
	- lunch menu available
	- brunch menu available
	- menu available for an extended period of time
	- wine flight available
	- entertainment available

Get Your Monster Crabs Here

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Mon, 25 May 2009 14:59:14 -0500

It is Memorial Day. Which is the unofficial start of the summer season, and what would summer be without crabs... delicious Maryland blue crabs that is.

I "banged" the hugest crabs I have ever seen yesterday. They weren't large, they weren't extra large, they weren't jumbos...they were so big they're called MONSTERS. I swear from claw to claw they were 15-16 inches. Super meaty with jumbo lump backfin crab meat. Oh my.

It is always interesting to have someone at the table that has never seen anyone do this before. The concept of throwing these weird looking crustaceans out on the table (straight from a brown paper bag), and start hacking into their bodies with mallets and knives will always get you a strange look from a newbie. I love their reactions.

When my kids were youngsters I couldn't get them to eat crabs. Now that they are older and realize what a delicacy they are, they want to sit on the back porch and bang crabs whenever they come home. The same goes for lobster. It's amazing how they love the more expensive stuff now. What's not amazing is that they still look to Mom and Dad to pay for it. (Some things never change).

Oh well...I hope that you and yours created some of you own fond Memorial Day memories this year. As always, let's not forget why we celebrate this Holiday. At 3:00pm, your local time, take a moment of silence to remember those who fought so hard for our freedom.

Event News - Air Show Returns To Ocean City, Maryland

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sun, 24 May 2009 11:16:59 -0500

I had the opportunity to see the air show last year, and it was incredible. This year there have been many more demonstrations and performers added to the program. It's a must see.

The three day event is June 12-14, 2009. Friday night is a kick off party on the beach, where the United States Army Golden Knights parachute team, will "drop in" on the festivities. There will be air craft and performers from all five branches of the military, including the United States Coast Guard. The show runs for four hours on both Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds will fly by as the finale act in each show. Other performers include the Air Force Reserve biplane and many civilian stunt flying teams.

There will be displays set up at the inlet parking lot and on the streets around the show center at 16^th Street and the boardwalk. Restaurants up and down the boardwalk will be hosting "meet and greets" throughout the show. It's guaranteed to be a lot of fun for all.

JUST LISTED - Bayfront 2BR/2BA Condominium with Outdoor Pool

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sat, 23 May 2009 14:46:21 -0500

#107 BAY PRINCESS - 81st ST on the Bayfront
Enjoy panoramic bay views from your private balcony in this beautiful 2BR/2BA Bay Princess condominium located on 81st St on the bay. Interior features include: wet bar in living area, mirrored walls, spacious rooms, ample storage... Sold furnished as shown. Property has never been rented and shows very very well. Bayfront Outdoor Pool. Three restaurants, shops, beauty salon and more are all just steps away. Cross the street and you'll be sunning and watching the waves break. Call or email KEVIN & MONICA MCNAMARA for more information.
VIDEO TOUR

REDUCED and Priced to Sell !!!

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:40:41 -0500

#38 TOWNES OF NANTUCKET - ON THE CANAL WITH BOAT DOCK -- NO CITY TAXES !!!
Great looking waterfront townhouse with boat dock and lift. The interior is bright and airy with plenty of natural lighting throughout. There is a spacious kitchen with updated tiled flooring and ample storage. Upstairs you will find the master suite and two additional bedrooms overlooking the canal. Owner has added many extras: fireplace, extra 1" insulation under house, HVAC and hot water heater installed 2006, upgraded vanity tops & medicine cabinets, floored attic, extended deck, fish cleaning station, water filtration system. Located just on the Maryland side of the MD/DE line, this growing corridor of Route 54 offers many conveniences nearby.
*Seller will consider including boat for an acceptable offer* Furnishings are negotiable.
VIDEO TOUR

Virtual Currencies? Is This Like Monopoly Money?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:04:35 -0500

Virtual on line currencies exist only on the internet. Social networks, such as a site called hi5, sell a currency called hi5 Coins, which enable its users to buy gifts on line. These purchased gifts appear digitally on the recipient's profile. The person doesn't really receive anything it's only an image on a web site.

Sounds pretty strange huh..... I have been reading that currencies that exist only online are becoming a more significant part of doing business on the Web, and some even in the real world.

Several online currencies are rumored to be competing to be the "dollar" of choice for Facebook and MySpace. Other social networking sites, like hi5 and Yearbook have created their own units of money.

Some experts predict a point in the future, where virtual currencies may enter the same trading space as true real world money. Virtual currencies are certainly not competitive now, but there is a large amount of these monies that are currently fueling online gaming sites and other social networks. Sites may hope to make as much money from their virtual currency as it does from advertising.

Facebook made a statement on a large news site saying that it is researching the idea of creating a unified currency, but it is "very early" in the process, and is not committed to it. Wow. That could be huge.

I can only imagine the many legal ramifications and opportunities for fraud just like problems we have now with the real economy, i.e. - taxes, interest rates, inflation,etc.

I guess we all need to stay tuned. This will be big. People are taking their online identities more and more seriously. This is a not a topic to be dismissed.

How Much Do I Need To Put Down On My Condominium Purchase?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:08:41 -0500

Just a little "tidbit" of info that I garnered today that I thought I would pass along.

Lending guidelines have become more stringent with our current market conditions. But I seem to learn something new all the time.

It is my understanding that some states have a "no exception rule" to the 20% down payment requirement if that lender is selling the loan on the secondary mortgage market. Now I know that Florida is one of those states, especially in the condominium market.

Fortunately, Maryland is not.

If you are considering a second home or investment property at a beach resort, you can still obtain 90% financing in Ocean City, Maryland.

What is Twitter?

Monica McNamara (MonicaC@Ocean-CitySales.com Ocean City Maryland) — Sat, 16 May 2009 11:36:03 -0500

Do You Use Twitter?

I am always curious how individuals in different walks of life utilize things. Anything...from a new lawn mower to a great new wok that they are finding exciting recipes for, to a super high end stereo system, to a not so little tiny application called Twitter.

I had lunch the other day with our oldest son, and he brought a friend of his. This young man is a newly minted medical doctor. He's extremely intelligent, motivated and who I would consider to be a very savvy individual. He has a cell phone and a computer. Interestingly enough in the course of our conversation, he asked me the question, "So what is Twitter? And why is everyone talking about it"?

Now I am no expert, and just because I occasionally chime in with a tweet or two, I really don't consider myself that well versed. But I gave it a go to explain the Twitter mania.

I gave him the Wikipedia definition of Twitter... free social networking and micro blogging service that enables its users' to send and receive updates from each other known as Tweets.

He looked at me kind of strangely and said why would you want to do that? Well, I said, you might what to know what your friends are doing without calling them. You probably have friends/family and business associates all over the world, and would want to know what they are doing, stay in touch with them, or ask them for their help or advice. Twitter is like asking someone what are you doing right now, and in 140 characters or less you get an answer. Or you tell those that matter to you what you are doing right now. I told him if you sign up for Twitter, you will see that Twitter posts look a lot like blogs, but with very little content in the message, so it makes it easy and quick to stay in touch. Each page is personal and has updates from your chosen friends. You can look up to see who you know is using Twitter, and then you can "follow" their updates to see what is happening in their day to day life. I told him that you find out fun facts about others. Like your buddy in Maryland is reading this great new book, or your old college roommate who moved to Virginia is now getting married, and so on.

For business, I told him, I use Twitter to talk about my latest new listings and blog posts, and easily interact with my customers. Staying in touch and communicating with those that I work with is critical, and my clients love the personal interaction.

He scratched his head, looked at me quizzically, and said, "I think I am beginning to get it". I smiled to myself. I was happy I was able to help him understand "What is Twitter".....

Then I said, "Now if you want to Follow Me on Twitter, just click on this link and you will receive my updates".