Twelve observations related to real estate.Similar to flying, it is not unusual to encounter a few bumps when buying and selling. This real estate turbulence happens anytime between signing up with a listing agent and the final settlement day.   I read a list of items that a pilot won't always tell you, and this triggered a list of things that agents may not want you to know about the real estate transaction.        I have encountered all of them and want to share my observations. Each could be a book chapter or a stand-alone blog post. 1. Houses sell houses, and people foul up deals.2. Avoid settlements early in the morning on Mondays or late  Fridays.3. Don't turn the keys over until the settlement is funded.4. Don't let a seller know a contract is coming in... Always wait until the o... 04/13/2024

 A few years back, a lovely young family hired me to help them sell their house. They were looking for a bigger space for their new baby and a better school district and wanted my assistance. After completing all the necessary paperwork and agreeing on a listing price, we took photos of the property and made a list of required repairs and updates. Unfortunately, there were some deferred maintenance issues that we had to deal with before selling the property.When I called to check on their progress, I was pleasantly surprised that they had almost completed everything on our checklist. They had done a lot of purging to prepare for their next move, evident in the sparkling clean house. I stopped by for a visit and was amazed at how different the house looked.What happened next was somethin... 04/12/2024

April is Earth Month The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will celebrate April as “Earth Month” with activities and events aimed at taking action and fostering environmental awareness and stewardship across our community.Throughout April, residents can participate in activities to promote sustainability, conservation and eco-conscious living. From educational workshops to community clean-up events, DEP is working with the community to make a positive impact on the local environment. Earth Month will cap off on April 27 with “GreenFest,” the largest annual environmental festival in the County."I encourage everyone in our community to act now and join us in celebrating Earth Month and as we renew our commitment to protecting the environment," said County Exec... 04/11/2024

Montgomery Parks April Special Events   Archaeology tours, a plant sale at Brookside Gardens and Sunday serenades are among the many special events that will be presented by Montgomery Parks in April. The schedule of programs also will include tours at Kingsley Schoolhouse and Oakley Cabin and several offerings for people ages 55-and-over.The April schedule of special events will include: Archaeology Tour. Saturdays, April 13, 20, 27. 11–11:30 a.m. Josiah Henson Museum and Park, 11410 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda. Learn about the features and artifacts that inform our understanding of the Rev. Josiah Henson’s life at Riley Plantation. Ages 6 and older. Tickets available at the front desk on the day of the tour. $3 per person (fee does not include museum admission). Sunday Serena... 04/12/2024