Why November and December Are Truly Wonderful Months to Buy or Sell a HomeEvery year around this time, I hear the same thing: “Isn’t it better to wait until spring to buy or sell a house?” And every year, I smile, because those who wait often miss one of the very best windows in real estate, November and December.This season has its own quiet rhythm. Many agents slow down, take long holidays, and gently encourage clients to “wait until after the New Year.” But real estate doesn’t stop for the calendar and neither do serious buyers and sellers. In fact, this is when the most committed people are out looking. No one wanders through houses in the cold, the rain, or the early dark of winter without genuine intention. These are focused buyers, ready to make decisions.For sellers, that means ... 11/09/2025

Thankful for Career SupportThe November Challenge for blogger members of ActiveRain is to share expressions of thankfulness. I am currently thankful for many years of a comfortable retirement that has been made possible by a successful career in the real estate industry.Many people have provided me with meaningful support and assistance over the years. Some of the most productive assistance was from my staff members at the office and the very special support for my licensed assistant who worked in my home office for five decades. That special assistant happened to by my wife, Dolores.Dolores was always there to assist me in any way possible and she spent many nights and weekends taking calls, adding information to our database and assisting me with the scheduling of appointments that so... 11/08/2025

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are quickly becoming a popular option for homeowners seeking to maximize the potential of their properties. These small, self-contained homes sit on the same lot as the main house and come equipped with everything you need including a separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. This makes them a fantastic solution for various living situations. One of the most significant advantages of ADUs is their versatility. They are ideal for aging parents who want to stay close to their families while maintaining their independence. Adult children also find ADUs appealing as they can live there while saving up for their first home. Additionally, ADUs offer a cozy space for visiting friends or family members, making them ideal for hosting guests. Homeowner... 11/10/2025

The Gut-Punch Moment for Every SellerYou’ve accepted an offer. The buyer’s financing looks solid. The inspection’s behind you. Then the call comes: “The appraisal came in low.”Your heart sinks. How can your beautiful, well-maintained home be valued at less than what the buyer just agreed to pay?It’s a problem that’s become more common in Maryland’s shifting market — especially in places like Catonsville, Ellicott City, and Columbia where demand remains high, but comparable sales lag behind current pricing. The good news? A low appraisal doesn’t always mean a lost sale.Why Appraisals Come In LowAppraisers don’t determine what a home should sell for — they determine what a lender is willing to lend on.They base their value on data, not emotion, looking at recent nearby sales (“comps”) to ... 11/05/2025