Gov. O'Malley

An overlooked feature in Maryland Gov. O'Malleys proposed budget would change the tax benefit homeowners currently receive. According to the Maryland Association of Realtors, "Under the Governor’s proposed Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2012 (BRFA, HB 87/SB 152), Maryland would be the first state  to scale back the most important tax benefit that homeowners receive – this is NOT an honor MARYLANDERS want!  

The BRFA bill would reduce the mortgage interest deduction and the deductibility of state and local property taxes for manyMaryland homeowners.

 For nearly 100 years, the tax code has protected mortgage interest deductibility.

Under the proposal, if a Maryland taxpayer’s federal adjusted gross income exceeds $100,000; then single taxpayer’s itemized deductions would decrease by 10% when calculating Marylandtaxable income – that’s an INCREASE in your Marylandtaxable base!  Taxpayers with adjusted gross income over $200,000 would see their deductions decrease by 20%!

Because housing and real estate account for over 20% of Maryland’s gross state product, more tax burdens on real estate and homeowners will only further hurt Maryland’s economic recovery.

The mortgage interest deduction and the deductibility of state and local property taxes account for almost 70% of total deductions claimed by Maryland taxpayers – vital incentives for a strong housing/real estate market recovery.

With so many Marylanders facing diminished homeowner equity and/or underwater mortgages, this proposal would do more harm than good! 

Please help save MD’s MID (Mortgage Interest Deduction), URGE your legislators to OPPOSE the Governor’s BRFA Bill.  Many thanks for your advocacy efforts!"

I encourage everyone oppossed to this bill to contact your local legislature. The people of Maryland have a voice and they should use it to let O'Malley know the interest deduction on a mortgage can not be tampered with today, tomorrow or ever.

You can locate your legistlative representative using this link FIND MY LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATIVE

You can sit back and bemoan the market. You can try to ponder how to get more leads. You can do many things that will keep you busy doing "real estate stuff". The end result will be much the same as you are experiencing now.

Why not take a new approach and actually work the leads that are sitting around in your in box or cms or where ever. 

The choice is yours

I just read an article by Stephen Fishman for Inman News.  The article was titled "Short on real estate down payment? Use your IRA.".  You may be able to view it by using this LINK .  The gist of the article supports dipping into your retirement account if you are a first time home buyer and need up to $10,000 ($20,000 if married and spouse has IRA account as well).  The IRS description of a first time home buyer in this scenario means first time in two years.

I don't want to be a wet blanket, but isn't part of the reason we got into the real estate jam had to do with creative financing.  Yes, the money in the IRA account is legally available. I suppose it seems innocuous when you use the initials regarding the source of the money. IRA sounds much easier to raid than Individual Retirement Account.  It is not a rainy day savings account, it is a retirement account.  It was set up to provide an income for the owner when they retire.

I realize that buying a home is a bit more difficult today.  Banks and other lenders do require a larger down payment for a conventional loan. Did I miss something?  I am pretty sure that FHA loans are still available and they require a much smaller down payment.  Yes, there is an additional cost to an FHA loan, but the loan may not require you to dip into money you will need in the future.

How much can dipping into that nest egg impact your retirement?  Well, using conservative estimates, that $10,000 or $20,000 you pluck out for down payment money could be worth $50,000 or $100,000 in 25 years. Simply put, that means the money would grow 5 times by the time you retire.  What do you think the down payment money will be worth?  Do you believe it will grow 5 fold while you are in the house?  In most cases, you will be moving again in 5-7 years and you will burn up your equity in closing costs and down payment on your next home. Retirement money is for retirement. No one can portend what will happen with social security and in light of the financial mess that is occurring every where, prudence indicates you should be setting aside money to offset the cost of retiring. You might want to think about all those retiring today that have a good chance of out living their retirement money.

The picture is not what anyone plans to have in their pantry for dinner consumption.  There are retirees that are choosing to eat cat food because they don't have enough money for food. They did not plan to be in that situation. They failed to plan to be in a better situation.  Some of them even spent money set aside for retirement. Decisions made while you are in your twenties and thirties can and do come back to bite you.

If you want to buy a home. Sit down with a lender. Find out what you can do with the cash that is readily available. Find out how much house you can comfortably afford on the amount of money you are comfortable paying each month. Then take a deep breath.  Don't be caught up in the "interest rates are historically low" headlines. Don't believe that if you don't buy now, all the bargains will be gone.  Those are general, emotional head line grabbing statements.  Be patient, if you don't have enough money in savings to buy a home, it probably isn't time for you to buy.

Should you be graced with a long life, you will have plenty of time to buy a home. It is better to make sure you will enjoy where ever you live when you retire. I will repeat the mantra one more time. Retirement accounts are for retirement. Don't let sloppy government regulations fool you into believing anything else.

I sell homes for a living. Your waiting until the time is right won't affect me. There are people that are in a position to buy now. Your waiting will guarantee that you put your ducks in a row and made a conscious decision to be prudent and wise.

        It has been planned for over 50 years. It has withstood protests and lawsuits.  Regardless or which side of the battle you were on, the battle is over and the ICC is a reality.  One small stretch between 270 and Georgia Avenue opened in early 2010 with a great deal of fan fare and very little traffic. Apparently, not many folks in the Olney area had a need to be in Rockville and there were not many westbound travelers that needed to make their way to Georgia Avenue.

         Right around Thanksgiving the dynamics changed. The portion from Georgia Avenue to Interstate 95 was opened and lives were changed.  Obviously, there are many folks travelling south on 270 or 95 that wish to make the trek from one side of the county to the other without using the capital beltway.  For those out-of-towners reading this, the capital beltway (also know as 495) is a fancy name for a bumper to bumper parking lot that circles around Washington DC.

        This is a map of the ICC.  The important points are the interchanges. The ICC can be accessed via 270 by using the 370 exit. There are exits at Shady Grove Metro, Georgia Avenue, Layhill Road, New Hampshire Avenue, Colesville Road, Briggs Chaney Road and 95.  A final exit at Virginia Manor Road with access to Route 1 will open later.

         Rather that reprint the information regarding the ICC and the need for an E Z Pass, let me just add the link to the official website here....  EZ Pass   The EZ Pass is also used on other toll roads in the region. The devil is not in the details regarding the ICC.  The ICC is a time saver and opens many communities that used to be local road traffic stymied.

This may look like mortar and stone

but

it is really a great big job magnet

          It is no secret that a great majority of people living in the Maryland suburbs work in Washington, DC.  Access to DC in the past was limited to the use of 270 and then to feeder roads. There were other roads available, but 270 became the main funnel from Montgomery County into Washington DC.  The Metro, more specifically, the Redline of the Metro was and remains another conduit into the Nation's Capital.  This created a lot of development along the 270 corridor.

The ICC opens up the Eastern portion of the County

         Now,  those that choose to live in Olney, Ashton, Sandy Spring, Layhill, Norbeck, Spencerville, Cloverly, Burtonsville, Laurel and areas close to them have a smooth access to Bethesda, Rockville, the 270 corridor, the redline at Shady Grove or Glenmont and many other commuter routes.  The time spent getting from here to there has been reduced.

         Those moving to the area and feeling they had to only focus on the 270 corridor have more choices.  Those people that used to think they had to move to Clarksburg or Urbana because of the need to use 270 now have more neighborhoods to choose from when moving.

          The eastern portion of Montgomery County has wonderful neighborhoods, lots of green space and plenty of things to do.  The ICC has created the opportunity to not only live a little closer to town, it has ended the long days journey into night of commuting into town using Colesville Road or New Hampshire Avenue.

         If you would like to know more about the neighborhoods that have become more desirable because of the ICC, let me know.  I have lived and worked here all my life. I not only know the roads, I have driven them and I know where the potholes exist.  My phone number is 301-509-5111.

So, you want to know all about Rockville, Maryland?  There are plenty of sites on the internet that discuss the history of the town and make up of city hall, etc.  What about Rockville today?  People from all over the country are familiar with Rockville (at least they know it is reasonably close to Washington DC and lots of folks tell them it is the place to move if coming to Montgomery County, Maryland.).

Rockville is much larger than the little postage stamp area located at the intersection of Viers Mill Road and Rockville Pike.  Rockville stretches from Georgia Avenue to the east, the Beltway to the south, Potomac to the west and Gaithersburg to the north.  There are over 13 square miles that cover the area called Rockville.

Information to help Rockville, Maryland real estate buyers should include information about the neighborhoods that make us this area.

• The Aspen Hill area, Wheaton Woods -  This tiny area of Rockville is really closer to Silver Spring/Glenmont than it is part of the Rockville community.  The homes in Aspen Hill Park and Aspen Knolls are older and priced considerably less than homes closer to Rockville or Olney ($250,000 and up).  The neighborhoods tend to include more blue collar workers.  Parking is a problem on many of the streets.  It is just north of the neighborhood Connecticut Avenue Estates.  There is shopping at the Aspen Hill Shopping Center which includes a Giant Food Store and other small retail shops.
• Bel Pre Woods, Brooke Haven, English Manor- This area is just north of the Aspen Hill area.  The homes are priced a bit higher which is a result of location more than any other factor.  It is a bit farther north and has good access to Georgia Avenue which in turn can lead to the Glenmont Metro or the ICC. Shopping can be done in Aspen Hill or Leisure World.
• Brooke Manor - OK, this is a development in and around what used to be Brook Johns old country club. The homes are much newer and more expensive.  It is located north of Norbeck Road and is a home owner association guided neighborhood.  It is located with good access to the ICC, Georgia Avenue and Norbeck Road.
• Ellenwood, Flower Valley, Manor Lake, Manor Park, Manor Woods, Norbeck Estates, Norbeck Manor - this area is located north and south of Emory Road and the ICC.  The homes are a bit older but are priced in the $500,000 and up range.  The quality of the neighborhood experience and the general location are excellent.  The neighborhoods have access to walking trails and parks.
• Burgundy Estates, Burgundy Hills, Burgundy Knolls, English Manor, Lincoln Park, Maryvale - These neighborhoods are closer to Rockville City and are priced between $250,000 and $350,000.  The homes are mostly older, built in the 50's.  The neighborhoods are laid out in the old suburban grid pattern.  This area has access to the red line station in Rockville.
• King Farm, Fallsgrove -  These two communities are like sister cities. They are both located north of Rockville Town Center.  They were both planned, developed and built by the same builders.  King Farm is older and a bit more developed, Fallsgrove is a bit newer and a bit farther out.  Both are planned communities that are built around a common shopping area.  Homes are more expensive, but the amenities of the planned developments are sought after by many buyers.
• Luxmanor - This community is on the south side of Rockville ( actually reasonably close to Bethesda).  The location and size of the homes is reflected in their higher price tags. Homes here run from $700,000 to almost $2,000,000.  This is an established community that offers a sense of style and access to Bethesda and DC.
• Montrose, Montrose Woods, Rockville Estates, Roxboro, Woodley Gardens - These communities are located in the area between Rockville Pike and Montrose Road.  The homes are favorably priced in the $500,000- $600,000 range.  The area is well established and features good access to major commuter thoroughfares.
• Randolph Hills, Rockcrest, Parkwood - This is another older section of Rockville located off Randolph Road. The homes are older and priced lower than homes farther north or west. Homes in these neighborhoods are about $350,000.  The streets are a bit narrower and off street parking is a premium.
• Twinbrook, Twinbrook Forest, Silver Rock, Stoneybrook Estates  - Many of these communities feature homes that were built following WWII and the Korean War.  They are mostly small bungalows and cape cods. Prices reflect the age and style.  Parking is a premium in these neighborhoods.

That covers most of the neighborhoods. I know them all well.  Anybody can tell you about the roads. I make it my business to know where the speed bumps are and where potential pot holes in your home search might exist. Rockville  is split by one the most famous roads in retail shopping (no offense for Rodeo Drive).  It is said in retail and restaurant circles that "if you can't make it on Rockville Pike, you can't make it anywhere".  The reason behind the saying drives local residents crazy.  You can't drive on Rockville Pike and hope to get from here to there in a timely fashion. It is clogged from sun up to well after sun set with commuters, shoppers, tourist, the lost, the wandering and the rest. The road is bumper to bumper in both directions most of the day.  Area residents are convinced that if 9% of the people are unemployed, they are spending their time driving up and down Rockville Pike. Local Attractions ;

• Strathmore - High quality arts programming, designed for audiences of many tastes, served with the hospitality and warmth of a family enterprise, are the hallmarks of Strathmore. Seasonal outdoor events seek to be inclusive in their programming appeal, reaching out to people of all ages, interests and cultural heritage.
• Beall-Dawson House - Which houses The Montgomery County Historical Society (MCHS) strives to highlight the role of history as a vital part of the cultural and social fabric of Montgomery County.
• F.Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Burial Place - Famed author and member of the "Lost Generation" and wife, one-time residents of Maryland, are interred here. The burial sites are located in Saint Mary's Cemetery.
• Rockville Town Center - Rockville Town Center is a welcoming and vibrant amenity in the heart of Rockville. The pedestrian-friendly streets and plaza, many restaurants and stores, Rockville Library and VisArts Center with its rooftop deck make Town Square a lively attraction.

Rockville is large and diverse.  If you are moving to the area, I will certainly offer all the information you need to make an informed decision.  Don't rely on travel guides or real estate books, talk to someone that lives here. My name is John MacArthur and I can be reached at 301-509-5111. Experience the difference Experience makes!

         So, all real estate agents know (or sure as hell should know) discrimination in housing based on race is illegal.  Any real estate agent with any sense of right and wrong should know that discrimination in any venue is also immoral.  This is 2011.  There have been enough court cases over the years to cement the fact that even if you are a racist pig, you can not discriminate.  The National Association of Realtors trumpets the fact that all of their members sign a pledge to be ethical.

       I don't think my experience over the better part of the last decade is unusual.  Racist are alive and well and a big part of the housing market.  I have had many buyers of one race inquire about the presence of another race in a neighborhood. I have followed the politically correct line of directing the individual to outside sources that may provide them with the information they are seeking.  One thing I have learned, it seems that people like to live in communities where their particular race is the majority.  I have to offer a caveat, the younger generation is more balanced and more concerned with the things that should matter...i.e. commuting time, access to public transportation, etc.

Now to be honest, I have fired clients because of their particular feelings about other races.  I have returned to my office and effectively dumped some clients after they shared a pejorative term about another race.  I have been a manager and had to counsel agents regarding their belief that a landlord can limit a home to one race.  I even lost a battle and an agent when they refused to follow the law.

The sticky situation comes up when you are already representing someone and out of the clear blue they ask you...

Is she black?

        This happens.  You are knee deep in representation.  You are in the middle of a transaction.  So what do you do?  I calmly explain that if you are asking if the applicant has good credit, I can get you the credit report. If you are asking has the applicant paid their rent in the past, I can get you that information as well as the condition that they left their prior home.  The fact that you are asking me "Is she black?", concerns me. Because the color of a person has nothing to do with their credit, if they paid rent on time in the past or the condition they left their prior home.  The whole conversation leaves me feeling ill.  It is one thing to accept the fact that racist pigs are alive and well today.  It really feels very slimy to think that you are dealing with one.

         I will be the first to honestly admit that real estate is slow.  I certainly would love to represent more clients.  I have references.  I have experience. I just don't have much tolerance for closet racists.  I would rather go become a greeter at Wal mart than have to deal with them.  Forgive the negative tone, but one phone conversation can really bring me down.

Joe Paterno

          In early October the Montgomery County Police Department were called to investigate a missing person.  When they entered Jane McQuain's apartment in Germantown, Maryland, they found Ms. McQuain.  She had been murdered and her 11 year old son was missing.  The hunt for the individual that may have committed the crime immediately focused on Curtis M. Lopez.  Lopez had been on a relationship with Ms. McQuain in the past and there were several clues that put him in her apartment around the time of her death. He has been arrested and charged.

         The search for the eleven year old boy ended on October 18th.  His body was found dumped by the roadside in Clarksburg, Maryland.  Nearby was the baseball bat that had been used to crush his skull. The authorities had video tape of the child with Lopez earlier. Lopez was seen slipping a bat under his coat while the boy played close by.  That is the last image anyone has of William McQuain.

          As the story evolved, I am sure I was not alone in feeling heartsick. He was only eleven years old. He was just a little boy.  How could anyone do such a thing?  How could anyone tell a little boy to stand still and then swing a baseball bat with all their might, crushing a little boys skull?  How do you do that, then drop the bat, get in a stolen car and drive back to North Carolina?  How can that happen?

         Then this week the story about Sandusky and his years of  sexual molestation of little boys hit the news.  They were just little boys.  Reportedly, Sandusky committed the crimes on several victims over several years. He did it with impunity.   He was the former defensive coach under Pennsylvania's Football God - Joe Paterno. (Just win baby..maybe associated with the late Al Davis, but it is the mantra of football coaches near and far). Who knew.

         Joe Paterno knew.  He was told of a vivid rape scene that occurred in the showers in the Penn State locker room. He listened to the the eye witness account and notified University officials. Then apparently, he went back to his game plans. He went back to winning. He went back to being Joe Pa.  He never asked any questions.

          No one knows the identity of the little boy that was being raped by Sandusky at that time.  He is just a phantom. Another little boy lost.  But every little boy that was molested following that occurrence   lays at the hands of good ole Joe Pa.  He was more concerned with Penn State football than with the fate of a little boy that was raped in his locker room.

          Yes, his profession is a football coach.  He is also a husband and a father.  He is an adult. He had an inherent moral responsibility much greater than working on a game plan when he was advised by an eye witness what had occurred.

          Maybe someone saw Lopez commit an act of violence against a woman or a child. Maybe they told their boss and let it go. Maybe. I am sure of this. Everyone of those boys that were molested are as dead as little William McQuain, The boys that laughed and ran and played and were loved... those boys no longer exist.  Their innocence and essence was ripped from them.  Anyone that stood by and watched and hoped someone else would deal with the problem, well, they are guilty of a sin far greater than the one committed.

         Joe Paterno should have nothing on his plate today other than apology, contrition and resignation. I heard the news today oh boy, about a famous coach who made the grade....... say it isn't so Joe.

Grand Jury Transcript

More on this story

Joe Pa Must Go

 

         Lourdes and I got married in Ocean City, Maryland on October 8th.  We chose the venue because we both love the ocean and have spent many happy weekends there.  Planning a wedding, coordinating rooms for guests and scheduling events gave us an opportunity to experience the best and worst Ocean City has to offer.  We had to make several trips to the ocean to make arrangements.  We had the opportunity to interview various event planners at hotels and visit with several restaurants. After we got home, we took stock of our experience and thought others might benefit if we shared what we learned.  In no particular order these are the do's and don'ts of Ocean City Maryland.

DO'S

The Hobbit

Bayside 81st Street and Coastal Highway

          It is difficult to express how wonderfully we were treated by the manager Matt Heiderman and his staff.  After visiting just about every fine dining restaurant seeking a place for our reception, Matt met with us and prepared a terrific event. The views were spectacular, the food incredible and every one of our guest raved about the service.  Matt opened the restaurant early so we would have the place to ourselves and made sure he had enough wait staff to cater to our needs. We plan to make the Hobbit a regular stop every time we visit Ocean City in the future. Triple kudos to The Hobbit.

Fager's Island Restaurant 

Bayside 48th Street and Coastal Highway

          OK, this needs to be clarified.  Fager's Island Restaurant is the place to be at sunset (well, not so much on overcast or rainy days).  It has long been a tradition that patrons watch the sun set on Assawoman Bay while the 1812 Overture plays over the sound system. The music is coordinated so that the last notes sound as the sun slips below the horizon. It may sound quirky, but experience it one time and you will return.

          Fager's Island also features a Bachelorette Crawl. Just bring in your party any time after 9:00 p.m. The bride-to-be will be given a card with 10 items which must be completed during the course of the evening. All persons in your party will receive some "props" to join in the fun. Once the card is completed the bride will receive a $30 Gift Card to be used at a later date and a commemorative "I survived the Fager's Island Bachelorette Crawl"  T-Shirt.  Lourdes and her friends took part in the event. Yes, she did complete every task and is the proud owner of the T-shirt.  It is a fun time and a must experience for beach wedding brides-to-be.

          The down side of Fager's is there inability to accommodate parties larger than 8 in their fine dining areas. We spoke with several managers and could not crack the code. We certainly could bring 40 or 50 people but there was no guarantee that we could sit in close proximity to one another. As it turned out, Fager's denial led us to end up at The Hobbit and the Hobbit blew Fager's out of the water when it comes to fine dining.

The Bayside Skillet  

Bayside 77th Street and Coastal Highway

         I have been eating breakfast at The Bayside Skillet for the last 30 years.  We joined a group of the wedding guests for breakfast there Sunday morning.  They were "newbies" and it was a delight to watch their eyes grow large when they saw the size of their portions.  The marveled at the fresh squeezed juices.  Crepes filled with strawberries, smothered in real whipped cream were finger licking good.  Omelets filled with ham, cheese, onions and more filled plates set before us. The staff is attentive while not over bearing.  Depending on the time of the year, you can choose to eat inside or on the deck.  They don't serve fancy lattes or $10 cups of java. The Bayside Skillet serves good old fashioned coffee in a cup that is refilled as often as you wish.  The Bayside Skillet is definitely a big Do in Ocean City Maryland.

Seacrets  

117 West 49th Street

          A visit to Ocean City is not complete without a stop at Seacrets.  Seacrets is a beach party, a dance party and one great big party party.  There are bars located throughout the establishment.  Live music is featured in two different areas and young and old alike dance the night away in both areas.  It is one of the most well staffed party spots in Ocean City. Your party can enjoy a good time, partake in beverages and walk to their car under the watchful eye of a friendly but effective security staff.  We always have  a great time dancing to the mixture of rock n' roll and reggae music.  There is something liberating about kicking off your shoes and dancing in the sand.  Seacrets is another one of those must stops in Ocean City.

 

Sunrise !

         The last, but certainly not the least, of the Do's has to be watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean.  Join the small group of people that make their way to shore as night begins to turn to day.  Enjoy the quiet beauty of black turning to pink and then feel the wonder of the reddish golden orb as it seems to rise from the sea. As the sun begins it's journey watch the reflection begin to reach from the horizon to the waves breaking on the sand.  There is nothing like sunrise on the ocean. It's free. It can be enjoyed alone. It can be shared with a friend. It is yours and it is everyone's. Loudes and I will always remember sitting together, sipping hot coffee, basking in the glow of daybreak.

          Honorable mention in the do's list goes to Bull on the Beach for it's incredibly good roast beef sandwich special; thrashers for their delightful french fries, early evening strolls on the boardwalk, the crazy art gallery that continues to survive through good times and bad and of course the warm sand between your toes on the beach.

DON'TS

         Now this may be hard to believe, but anything run by the Harrison Group should be avoided like the plague.  This group manages several hotels and restaurants in Ocean City.  The are long on promises and terribly short on delivery.  We encountered them at several points in our planning.  We visited many of their sites. We, like most trusting consumers were stupid enough to believe their sales pitch, accept their "no problem", and enter an agreement with them.

         It began innocently enough. We wanted a hotel with access to the beach.  Our search led us to quite a few above the Route 90 bridge.  After spending a good part of one morning, we had just about decided on one venue and we decided to check with the Oceanfront Holiday Inn.  Of course our group was not the largest of the season, but we expected to need between 10 and 15 rooms.  The manager took us on a tour of the property, finishing with a visit to the top floor of the Ocean front rooms. There were three of them on the top floor. We wanted a smoking room and were told that these were the only smoking rooms on the Ocean front. The manager said there would be no problem guaranteeing one of the rooms.

         Lourdes shared phone calls and emails with the hotel staff regarding prices and how guests would be able to guarantee the promised rate. Things were moving very smoothly.  Imagine our shock and surprise when we checked in the Thursday evening before the wedding to discover that the room saved for us was on the second floor and non-smoking.  The manager on duty began his corporate trained drone "We can not guarantee any rooms. This is the only room that fits your criteria."  We pointed out that it did not fit our criteria and it was not what we were promised. The young man, true to the Harrison Group model of "Kiss my ass, you are here and stuck with what we decide to give you", began repeating the same mantra over and over again. He told us that if we wanted a top floor room, he had one that was overlooking the pool. He gave us a room key and we went a looked.  Lourdes allowed that we had no choice but to make the best of the situation but she would only take a room if she could have the end unit.

        We returned to the front desk. Friends that had flown in for the wedding were coming in the front door. They waited to check in while Lourdes made her request. The young man replied, "I'm sorry, the end unit is being held for a member of your party."  I asked, "How is that possible, you said you did not guarantee rooms."  The lad countered with  "No sir, you are wrong. I said we could not guarantee specific rooms. The people we are holding it for requested a top floor room."  I then asked him if the room he offered and the room he was holding were exactly the same type of rooms, the only difference is one is in the middle of the building and one is at the end of the building."  He said "Yes sir, but we are holding the room at the end of the building for a member of your party."

       The room was being held for our guests, they stepped up and said they were fine with a room in the middle of the building. We were then given the room at the end of the building. Lourdes then asked "Will we be refunded the difference?" Mr. Harrison Group looked stunned, "No mam, you will not receive a refund. You are not due any money."  Lourdes pointed out that the room we were promised and the room we were given were not the same price. She pointed out that we should not be charged the higher rate. The manager looked her in the eye and said "No. You are wrong. You are not due any money."  At this point I allowed "Son, you are in over your head, get your boss on the phone."  His retort was, "No sir, you are wrong. I have worked for the Harrison Group for several years and I know exactly what I am doing."  Lourdes once again tried to point out the error of his ways. He suddenly said "OK, maybe we do owe you a refund."

       I will not bore you with the rest of the exchange. It involved the hotel being unable to locate reservations and desk personnel speaking rudely when asked any questions.  Maybe the people working for the Harrison Group have a problem dealing with people that actually expect to receive what they were promised.

        The day of the wedding, another of our guests decided to eat breakfast in the hotel restaurant (another of the typical Harrison Group establishments).  They were seated. A very pleasant mixed race couple and their two daughters. They placed their order and waited. Several groups of golfers came in a placed their orders. (The Harrison Group also brings in golfing groups).  The golfers received their meals and paid and left. Our friends were still sitting there. Finally, the mom stood up and walked into the kitchen and told them it was time to bring out their meal...now. She was met with blank stares. Eventually the meals were served, almost an hour after being ordered. Maybe the people working for the Harrison Group have a problem dealing with people that aren't part of the golf package deals.

          Our visit came to an end and we began to pack. As I was sitting on the bed, the head board came off and crashed to the floor.  Lourdes had her wedding bouquet in a vase and our portion of the wedding cake in a box.  I went downstairs to check out and let them know the bed had fallen apart.  I stopped in the restaurant and asked the waitress if they had a walk-in refrigerator that we could store the flowers and cake in while we enjoyed on last morning on the beach. She said no problem. I went to the front desk to check out and told them about the bed falling apart. The clerk laughed and said "Oh, you're the newly weds. Don't worry about it."

         Lourdes came down with the luggage. I went to put it in the car while she took the flowers and cake to the restaurant. She encountered a different waitress that told her she would have to check with her manager first. She disappeared in the kitchen to find the manager.  I came in and Lourdes was still standing there. She told me she would be right back and went back into the kitchen.  The waitress that had gone seeking the manager was standing in the kitchen talking on her cell phone.  Lourdes asked "I thought you were going to get the manager?"  The girl replied "I haven't seen her yet."  Lourdes said "you have left me standing out front for 15 minutes, waiting for you to bring the manager."  The waitress replied "Look lady, I'm not even on the clock."  and turned and walked away.  "I am the customer here. You can not treat me like this. I only asked you to do your job." The girl kept on walking. Lourdes picked up the flowers and the cake and came out of the kitchen as angry as I have ever seen her. "Doesn't she know I am the customer and I don't know if she is on the clock or not?"

        We left...I don't think we will be back.

        Maybe the Harrison Group doesn't have a problem with anyone. Maybe the Harrison Group doesn't care about anything other than lining their pockets. After all, they make money off of tourists and they have their customers by the "short hairs" by the time they show up.  It may not put a dent in their business, but it is only fair to warn everyone. This company is horrid and void of any semblance of integrity or customer service.

Harrison  Group is a DON'T. Harrison  Group is a DON'T. Harrison  Group is a DON'T.

RUTH WATERS

HEAD OF HARRISON  GROUP

DON'T 

 

The docks located in downtown Annapolis

          Annapolis is the capital of Maryland.  The State House sits atop the hill, right up West Street from the city docks.  On a fall afternoon the historic homes in the area are accented by beautiful foliage for the old Oaks and Maples in the area.  It is safe to say that the views in Annapolis are breath taking year round.

          Sure, Annapolis is a tourist target destination and street festivals find participants arriving from near and far, but Annapolis is also home to many.  The town is located reasonably close to Route 50. Route 50 begins in Ocean City, Maryland and ends in Sacramento, California.  There is a sign that east coast residents see leaving Ocean City ...

few people realize that those on the West Coast heading out of Sacramento have a similar sign ...

          Long before route 50 reaches Sacramento, it passes through Washington, DC.  The highway provides those that work in the District of Columbia an easy access commuter route to work.  Of course, local traffic is heavy and those commuting have to be up early.  The reward is coming home to Annapolis.  Waterfront homes and communities surrounding the downtown area offer a wide variety of styles and prices to potential residents.  Home prices range from the low $200,000's to over $3,000,000.   There are condo's, townhomes and single family homes to cover a wide spectrum of pricing.  They all share one thing ... they are in and around Annapolis and every person has the same access to the attractions located there.

          

Quiet Waters Park

          A little known fact is that the number one tourist attraction in Annapolis is Quiet Waters Park. Nestled between the South River and Harness Creek, Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis offers a wide variety of family activities. Visitors can walk, jog, or bike on over 6 miles of scenic paved trails, play at the large multi-level children’s playground, enjoy the South River promenade and scenic overlook, or picnic among 336 acres of beautiful park land. Boat rental and ice-skating are available seasonally, and the park’s Visitor Center includes formal gardens, art galleries, and a café. (travel america)

         Of course, the United States Naval Academy is located here and the traditions surrounding the Academy do influence the town, but Annapolis has so much more to offer.  In addition to the unique shops found downtown, one can get lost in the dining choices available.  The menu's run the gamut from Maryland Blue Crabs to Prime Rib to a multitude of sandwiches available at Chick & Ruth's Deli.  Waterfront dining is available at several restaurants located around the docks.  A local favorite past time is to grab an ice cream cone and stroll the waterside admiring the boats anchored there.

          Annapolis is not mired in the past.  Just a few minutes from the city docks are upscale malls and nationally known chain stores.  You can by your favorite Irish friend an authentic Celtic tie by the docks or treat them to a copy of Riverdance at the local Best Buy.  Personally, I went to Jared's to buy her that ring.

          Annapolis is as historic as an oil painting and as fresh as a plein air watercolor.  The seasons change vibrantly from the soft hues of summer's flowers to the intense blue of a summer's sky to the golden leaves of fall to the pristine crystal clear stars of a winters night reflecting off the water.  Annapolis is alive.  Newcomers mingle with locals that are interspersed with midshipmen from the Academy.  Nightlife begins with extended Happy Hours and features several venues offering live music.  The local mall has a multiplex movie theater showing current films.

          Annapolis is more than a tourist attraction. It certainly features landmarks and historical neighborhoods but it also is home to butchers, bakers and candlestick makers.  Local shop owners and commuters are all comfortable living here. The schools, public under Anne Arundel County Schools and private from pre-school to Saint John's College, are some of the best in the nation.  Annapolis is a wonderful place for singles just starting out, young families and "empty nesters" as well.  There is something here for everyone.

          If you are considering moving to the area and would like to know more about Annapolis and homes that are available there, feel free to CONTACT ME.  I will be glad to share my knowledge of the area and help you in your move.

 

Paul Foster

Vice President Long & Foster

          It seems like only yesterday, but it was back in the fall of 2007. I was working as an agent with Long & Foster in Rockville, Maryland.  It was time for a change.  Back then, I thought the manager could really stop me from changing offices. I asked and was denied. So, at 3:00 am in the morning, I snuck in and packed my things and set out to find a better place.

          I ended up in Olney Maryland. It was another Long and Foster office and my move had to have the blessing of the main office.  It was granted (little did I know then that a multi-million dollar producing agent can usually go where ever they wish).

          I was given a little office and all the tools I needed to continue selling real estate. I was busy. I had clients and things to do and houses to sell. My real estate life was very pleasant. I did not realize that my personal life was eroding as I was working 6 and 7 days a week. There were many times I was in the office until 9 or 10 at night.

          Then on evening at about 4:50 pm ( hmmm..actually it was February 1st, 2008 at 4:50 pm), I caught a glimpse of someone walking down the hall past my office door.  Have you ever caught the glimpse of someone that stopped you in your tracks? I don't even remember what I was doing. I just remember thinking "WOW" and getting up and heading down that hall. There was nothing else that mattered.

Maria Lourdes Tudela

         I was introduced to her by Pam Ringler.  Small talk for a bit and she was gone. The next morning I was at work early and she walked in. We talked, we connected on a level that I can not define or explain. We became friends, partners and inseperable.  Everyday since that first glance, we have grown closer. Every battle we have had to fight to be together has been won.  Every naysayer has been proven wrong.

          My life is richer because Paul Foster allowed me to move and appointed me a manager and then bid me adieu. There is not one aspect of my life I would change.  Over the course of time, things happen and angry words are shared. In the heat of the moment, true blessings are overlooked.

           On October 8th, 2011 the journey that began with but a glance will be recognized publicly by family and friends as we will become man and wife. I thought it was only fitting that I say to Paul and everyone else that has touched our lives...

THANK YOU