b m's (bethmccloy) Blog

Open House Sunday June 2nd 12p-3p

b m — Thu, 30 May 2013 02:18:54 -0700

1838 Crofton Parkway Crofton MD 21114 $425,000 Be prepared to fall in love with this beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath single family home from the minute you arrive in the driveway. This gorgeous home features an updated kitchen with fabulous granite counter tops, beautiful maple cabinets and a stunning subway tile back splash. Hardwood floors can be found throughout the main living area along with perfectly selected neutral paint colors. The sun room is the perfect spot for enjoying the secluded backyard. When you enter the owners suite you will automatically feel as if you are stepping into a serene spa resort with the soothing paint colors, beautifully remodeled bathroom and large walk in closet. Come and see this beautiful home for yourself June 2, 2013 from 12p - 3pm. This home is listed by Lauren Hatten, open house hosted by Beth McCloy. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Four Seasons Estates ~ Gambrills MD ~ Market Report

b m — Tue, 28 May 2013 07:02:47 -0700

Four Seasons Estates Real Estate Market Four Seasons Estates is a quiet community conveniently located in Gambrills in Anne Arundel County. With Waugh Chapel Towne Center a short 5 minute drive, two elementary schools within walking distance, Fort Meade less then 15 minutes, Annapolis 25 minutes and Washington D.C. 45 minutes, it's no wonder that the homes in Four Seasons Estates are "flying off the shelves". With a light selection of available homes there is still something for everyone, whether looking to buy or rent, you do have options and if you've been on the fence about selling then this is a great time. You are almost sure to have plenty of interested buyers and from the looks of the market you could quite possibly be under contract/sold before summer is over. As a Realtor and resident of Four Seasons Estates it is exciting to see the homes in our neighborhood moving in the right direction. Average number of days on the market is 43 Average sold price is $302,500 The homes are selling at an average of 92.85% of their list price. If you are looking to buy, sell or rent in Four Seasons Estates why would you work with anyone less then a neighborhood expert. Call or email me today and see how I can help you. Looking to buy, sell or rent in Anne Arundel County or the surrounding areas? I can help there too! I proudly work in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Howard and Prince George's Counties. Find your new home here. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Open House - Saturday May 25th 11am - 2pm

b m — Thu, 23 May 2013 10:36:47 -0700

3431 Bristol Ct. Chesapeake Beach 20732 $379,900 Picture yourself sitting on the front porch of this Victorian Colonial while the kids play in the front yard or ride bikes in the cul-de-sac. This spacious home offers plenty of space to accommodate all of your needs with over 3000 sq. feet of finished living space and 5 acres of land. Enjoy the private wooded land from your expansive deck. This home offers a large great room with vaulted ceiling, owners suite with large private bathroom and walk in closet, and only 4 miles to the beach. This home qualifies for zero money down. 4 Bedrooms 2.5 Bathrooms 2 Fireplaces 2 Car Garage Finished Basement 5 Acres 3431 Bristol Ct. listed by Mary Wagner Open House hosted by Beth McCloy ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

What To Do This Summer in Maryland ~ Larriland Farm

b m — Tue, 14 May 2013 21:35:18 -0700

Larriland Farm in Woodbine Larriland Farm is a pick you own farm located in scenic Western Howard County, opening day is determined by the ripening of the strawberries. This farm is a family favorite of ours as there are so many different fruits and vegetables to choose from. We always visit a couple times in the summer for different fruits and in the fall for apples and pumpkin picking. The farm offers... 15-20 acres of vegetables including; spinach, beets, tomatoes, broccoli and pumpkins 16 acres of apples (19 varieties) 16 acres of peaches (21 Freestone varieties) 1 1/2 acres of thornless blackberries 5 acres of blueberries 1/4 acre of purple raspberries 3 acres of red raspberries 1 acre black raspberries 2 acres sweet cherries 2 acres tart cherries 10 acres strawberries In addition to pick your own there are also many other fruits and vegetables available at the barn. You do always want to call or check their website ahead of time to see what is available on the day you are planning to go. Please check their website for more information about their hours, directions, recipes and more. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Anne Arundel County Public Schools Just Got Greener

b m — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:15:38 -0700

Six Anne Arundel County Schools Receive Maryland Green School Award In addition to the six schools receiving their first year award, five other schools and Arlington Echo are re-certified. Bringing the total number of facilities to 58 in the county with the designation. Congratulations to Edgewater, Lake Shore, Overlook and Severn Elementary Schools and Annapolis and Magothy River Middle Schools on earning your first certification. In order to receive the green school status, schools and facilities must complete and document certain activities over a 2 year period including establishing an effective and proactive environmental program. The successful schools must have "green" thinking in all aspects of the school or facility from the staff to community involvement. After schools and facilities have received the award they must maintain the culture of environmental awareness and are encouraged to apply for re-certification every four years. Anne Arundel County Public Schools Green Schools: Annapolis Middle School ~ 2013 Arlington Echo Outdoor Education Center - Green Center - 2004, 2009, 2013 Arnold Elementary School ~ 2009 Arundel High School ~ 2010 Belvedere Elementary ~ 2010 Benefield Elementary School ~ 2008, 2013 Bodkin Elementary School ~ 2007, 2011 Broadneck High School ~ 2008, 2012 Cape St. Claire Elementary School ~ 2012 Central of Applied Technology - North ~ 2011 Central Elementary School ~ 2010 Central Special Education School ~ 2011 Chesapeake Bay Middle School ~ 2008, 2012 Chesapeake High School ~ 2012 Crofton Woods Elementary ~ 2012 Davidsonville Elementary School ~ 2004, 2007, 2011 Eastport Elementary School ~ 2011 Edgewater Elementary School ~ 2013 Folger McKinsey Elementary School ~ 2006, 2009, 2013 Fort Smallwood Elementary School ~ 2012 Four Seasons Elementary School ~ 2011 George Fox Middle School ~ 2011 Hebron-Harman Elementary School ~ 2008, 2012 Hillsmere Elementary School ~ 2009 J Albert Adams Academy ~ 2012 Jacobsville Elementary School ~ 2012 Jones Elementary School ~ 2010 Lake Shore Elementary School ~ 2013 Linthicum Elementary School ~ 2009 Magothy River Middle School ~ 2013 Marley Glen School ~ 2012 Maryland City Elementary ~ 2012 Mayo Elementary School ~ 2008, 2012 Meade Middle School ~ 2012 Nantucket Elementary School ~ 2010 Oak Hill Elementary School ~ 2011 Old Mill South Middle School ~ 2010 Overlook Elementary School ~ 2013 Pasadena Elementary School ~ 2009, 2013 Piney Orchard Elementary School ~ 2010 Richard Henry Lee Elementary ~ 2012 Ridgeway Elementary School ~ 2010 Riviera Beach Elementary School ~ 2010 Rolling Knolls Elementary ~ 2010 Ruth Parker Eason School ~ 2011 Severn Elementary School ~ 2013 Severn River Middle School ~ 2012 Severna Park Elementary School ~ 1999, 2002, 2008 Severna Park Middle School ~ 2011 Shipley's Choice Elementary School ~ 2001, 2004, 2008, 2012 South River Senior High ~ 2010 South Shore Elementary School ~ 2009, 2013 Southern High School ~ 2012 Sunset Elementary School ~ 2011 Tyler Heights Elementary School ~ 2009, 2013 West Annapolis Elementary School ~ 2005, 2008, 2012 Wiley H. Bates Middle School ~ 2011 For more information on how to obtain the green school certification please visit The Maryland Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education website. Looking for a home in Anne Arundel County or the surrounding area? I can help! Call or email me for a home buyer or home seller plan tailored to your needs. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Open House ~ 14007 Pleasant View Drive Bowie ~ Sunday 5/19 12p-3p

b m — Tue, 14 May 2013 06:05:40 -0700

Sunday May 19th 12pm-3pm Open House 14007 Pleasant View Drive in Bowie $360,000 Come see this beautifully maintained Cedarwood Model being offered at $360,000. Main level offers a large kitchen with center island and breakfast area are perfect for those large family gatherings, family room has cathedral ceilings and brick fireplace. Owners Suite has a large walk-in closet with spacious owners bathroom with soaking tub and separate shower. Three more bedrooms are upstairs with an additional bathroom. New Carpet and fresh paint throughout. Beautiful private backyard with deck are perfect for those summer cook-outs. 4 Bedrooms 2.5 Bathrooms 2 Car Garage Deck Private Backyard Open House Sunday May 19th 12pm-3pm hosted by Beth McCloy. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Competitive Market Analysis ~ Why You Need One

b m — Mon, 13 May 2013 05:55:23 -0700

What is a Competitive Market Analysis? As you prepare to put your home on the market you may ask yourself "what is a competitive market analysis and why do I need one?" A competitive market analysis can be called several different things, such as comparative market analysis, CMA, and a right price analysis are among some of the terms. A competitive market analysis (CMA) is an informal estimate of the current market value of your home. Just as a CMA is used to assist in pricing a home correctly for sellers it is also a very important tool for buyers in determining if the home they are going to make an offer on is listed at fair market value. A CMA contains different aspects of a home including square footage, features and lot size and compares it to other homes in the area that are for sale or have recently sold. It is important that you do understand that a CMA is not an appraisal of your homes value. When you are ready to sell it is very important that you don't overprice your home. Having your home the highest price in the neighborhood will only make the other homes look like a better deal to potential buyers. The first couple of weeks on the market are the most important and you don't want eliminate any potential buyers. While dropping the price after a certain amount of time on the market may seem like a good idea, it can give the impression that your home has flaws. You always want to consult with a Realtor to find out what the potential market value of your home is. A competitive market analysis can not work alone. In addition to pricing your home correctly you need to make sure a marketing plan has been set in order to bring the potential buyers to your home. Online marketing, social media marketing, direct mail marketing and open houses if used correctly can assist in getting the spotlight on your home. Did you know that you should get a competitive market analysis if you are considering a major remodel or upgrade? Well, you should. There is nothing more frustrating then putting a lot of time, thought and effort into upgrading and remodeling your home and then not getting a return on your investment. If you would like to know the potential market value of your home, whether you are considering selling or remodeling, call or email me for your free, no obligation competitive market analysis.************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

What to do this summer in Maryland ~ Cunningham Falls

b m — Wed, 08 May 2013 22:01:36 -0700

Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont Maryland Cunningham Falls is located in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains. Cunningham Falls offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, fishing, canoeing and a great playground area. If you're looking for a getaway the park offers campsites and cabins for rent. My family has stayed at this park on several different occasions and are excited to plan another trip here. Cunningham Falls is close enough for a day trip as well. Hiking Cunningham Falls offers a variety of hiking trails varying in terrain and accessibility. Trails vary from .5 to 7.5 miles in length and can accommodate everything from families with children to the more experienced hiker. The 'Lower Trail' is the easiest of the trails, we were able to use our jogging stroller on the trail since our son was quite young at the time. The Falls While here make sure you visit the cascading 78 foot waterfall. The waterfall can easily be reached from a short trail that begins at the lake or from a boardwalk off Route 77. Swimming From Memorial Day through Labor Day you can cool off in lake, swimming is not always available so you will want to check with the Park office the day of. The view of the mountains from the lake are breathtaking. Picnicking There are grills and picnic table available by lake on a first come, first served basis. Camping Campsites are available April through October. At The William Houck Area, they offer 107 basic sites and 33 sites with electric hook up. If you prefer a cabin there are nine 4-person cabins and four 6-person cabins to choose from. You will need to reserve these well in advance though as they fill up fast. As you can see Cunningham Falls State Park if a beautiful place to visit whether it is for a day or longer. Please visit their website for more information regarding hours of operation, directions, rentals, etc. Cunningham Falls is a very popular place to visit so remember to get here early, it quite common for the park to fill to capacity early in the day, especially on weekends and holidays. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

What to do this summer in Maryland ~ Centennial Park

b m — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:21:55 -0700

Over the next couple of weeks I will highlight some of my personal favorite spots to visit in Maryland. I have lived in Maryland all my life and I love learning about new places, so if you have a favorite spot to go please share it with me. 1st stop ~ Centennial Park in Ellicott City I have been going to this the park for as long as I can remember. Centennial Park has an amazing playground! Seriously, this playground is so large that your inner child will come out and you will want to play too! This park features a beautiful lake with a 2.4 mile path around it. If you would rather be on the lake instead of going around it, you can rent a boat, or hang out on the side and go fishing. Paddle boats, canoes, kayaks and row boats are available for rent. There are many covered pavilions throughout that can be rented as well as many different areas to grab a picnic table or a spot on the grass. Throughout the summer months the park offers concerts. Sunset Serenades is Wednesdays from 7:00PM to 8:30PM. The schedule is as follows... June 28th - 8ohms - Horn Heavy Funk Mix July 3rd - Electric Brigade - U.S Naval Academy Rock Band July 10th - The Grandsons Jr. - Americana for Kids July 17th - David Bach - Jazz July 24th - Bad Influence - Blues July 31st - Ivy Rose - All female/Alternative/Pop/Rock August 7th - Proverbs - Reggae In addition to all the amenities, this park offers 325 acres, so there is also a lot of green space where you can always find people playing a game of catch, flying a kite, or enjoying the weather and reading a book. If you have never been here before you should certainly add it to you "to do" list. For additional park information or more details regarding their rentals and the Summer Serenades schedule, please visit their website.************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Open House Sunday May 5th 12p-3p

b m — Fri, 03 May 2013 11:10:34 -0700

14014 Heatherstone Dr. Bowie MD 20720 Open House May 5th 12pm-3pm Come and see this stunning colonial for yourself! The kitchen is a dream, complete with beautiful stainless steel appliances and an Advantium oven. With 4 large bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms this spacious home is sure to provide you with many years and many memories. All bathrooms and kitchen have been remodeled with exquisite taste, the finished lower level is ready to be your new man cave, family playroom, or even a great theater room. Don't miss the stunning Brazilian tiger wood floors in the living room and dining room. The home has a large 2 car garage, the garage door has been replaced as well as the roof, the list of updates and upgrades just keeps going. This better than new home is being offered at $359,000 listed by Mary Ciesielski, open house hosted by myself, Beth McCloy. Can't make it to the open house? Just give me a call and we can schedule for you to see it. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

Considering a home on a busy road?

b m — Fri, 03 May 2013 07:05:37 -0700

I know a busy street can be huge deterrent as a home buyer or even as a renter, heck it was for me and my husband when we first looked at our home. In fact it was such a big deal that we looked at our house 4 times and wrote offers on 2 other homes before we decided that we would take the plunge. We have now been living in our home for almost 2 years and have never looked back. Yes there is a busy road right behind our home, it’s not a highway or anything, but still a busy road. These are the questions we asked ourselves when making the decision. Is the home in our preferred neighborhood? Is the home the right size/style we are looking for? Does the home have all the features we are looking for or can they easily be added? Is the home in the right price range? Is everything about the home what we are looking for except the road behind it? We were able to answer yes to all of those questions. Now that we have been living in our home we hardly even notice the road anymore. It actually turns into white noise after awhile and a couple of good things actually came out of living on a busy road. We know what’s going on with traffic before we even leave which is extremely helpful in winter and knowing if the roads have been treated or not. Our son has always had an obsession with fire trucks, seeing his face light up when he gets to watch them go by with their lights and sirens on, is priceless. While living on a busy road may not be for everyone, the positives certainly outweighed the negatives for us and maybe it can for you too. Whether looking for a home on a busy road or not, there are many to choose from, find your new home here. ************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com

So what IS the best way to start your weekend?

b m — Fri, 03 May 2013 00:45:21 -0700

By coming to the Piney Orchard Community Yard Sale. Did you know that there are actually 2 huge community yard sales within the Piney Orchard Community? Well there are. There is one at the the Piney Orchard Community Center as well as the Piney Orchard Ice Arena. That's double the deals you can find, and if you have never been to this yard sale, you're missing out, this is the best yard sale ever! Come to the Piney Orchard Ice Arena and look for the area with the big Long & Foster banner. That is where you will find yours truly. I will be sponsoring my daughter's soccer team, ASA Pride, in their efforts to raise money to cover the costs of uniforms, training, camps, etc. All proceeds from their yard sale items go to their efforts. From 7:30am - 12:30pm May 4th you can find me there with some great information about the current housing market among other things. Now, you may be wondering what else is going on in Anne Arundel County and the surrounding area this weekend. Well here are a few ideas... For the Thomas the Train enthusiast, Thomas himself will be in Baltimore at the B&O Museum ~ take a 25 min. train ride, listen to stories, arts n crafts and much more Naptown barBAYq at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds in Crownsville ~ food, live music, arts n crafts vendors and more Jug Bay Spring Festival in Lothian ~ native plant sale, hayride, hiking with a naturalist, workshops and moreFish 4 All Event at Sandy Point State Park ~ fishing derby, prizes, games & more So let's recap, start your Saturday,May 4th, by coming to the Piney Orchard Community Yard Sale at the Ice Arena, visit with me from 7:30 - 12:30, get some great deals, then you are free to go. Enjoy the amazing weather we are going to have this weekend!************************************************************************************ Beth McCloy Realtor Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Direct: 443-534-7352 Office: 410-721-1500 2191 Defense Hwy. Suite 120 Crofton MD 21114 Email: beth.mccloy@lnf.com Website: beth.mccloy.lnf.com