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Howard County, MD Real Estate News

By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
It's almost time for the annual Holiday Mingle at The Pink Cabbage, one of my favorite stores in Howard County to hunt for unique gifts and home decor. It's happening this Saturday, December 7th, 2024 from 10 to 5. If you have never been to The Pink Cabbage, then their Holiday Mingle is a great day to visit and browse the collective. The Cabbage gals will serve cocktails and hors d'oeuvres and will have - no doubt- transformed the store into a magical Christmas wonderland once again. The video is from last year's event to give you an idea of just how special it is. The Pink Cabbage is a collective of vendors selling home decor, shabby chic, boho style, accessories, and anything else to make your home and life more beautiful. It's a local small business and women-owned. They are located ...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
My favorite independent bookstore in Howard County, MD, is Backwater Books in Ellicott City, MD. It's more than a bookstore; it's a Bibliopub. You can also enjoy a seasonal cocktail, beer, wine, or hot tea at Backwater Books. That's a winning concept in my book (pun totally intended). Backwater Books opened its doors in 2022 and occupies the old Times Building (ca. 1890), the former home of the Howard County Times newspaper. It offers a selection of children's and adult books, including banned books, and art from local artists.So if you stop by, allow plenty of time to sit and get lost in a book, enjoy a hot or cold beverage, and take in the artwork. This is not the kind of bookstore you want to run in and out of, of course, you could do that, too. Backwater Books also hosts regular eve...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
It seems like it was just the other day I was running up and down the stairs in this delightful starter home near Historic Savage Mill, and staging it. What a whirlwind transaction! After just three days on the market and a busy open house, we received two competitive offers, and sailed along smoothly with one of them all the way to the closing table! I admit, past experience had taught me to be wary working with the buyers' chosen lender, Navy Federal Credit Union. Although, I have been a member for 21+ years as well, the lending side is a different beast. I didn't feel confident that they would pull it off within 3 weeks. I stand corrected! Navy Federal Credit Union delivered and we celebrated one happy closing day last week. It's always so sweet to meet the buyers and to see how very...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Catch a glimpse of the Belmont Manor House, one of my favorite estate homes in Maryland. The Belmont is an extraordinary historic estate under the stewardship of Howard County. It sits on 68 acres adjacent to Patapsco Valley State Park and was once a working plantation. The Belmont dates back to ca. 1738 when Caleb Dorsey, Jr. built a home on the land his father had gifted him as a wedding present. After the Civil War, Belmont became a social gathering spot for the wealthy who built summer homes nearby, at Lawyer's Hill. Today, Belmont Manor and Historic Park is a popular venue for conferences, retreats, and weddings. Although I didn't include any interior shots (there may be a part 2 coming), the Belmont has a bridal suite and it's just such an enchanting place. The ceremonies typicall...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
8855 Willowwood Way is a charming starter home in Aspenwood near Savage Mill. Good things come in 2s: it has 2 bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, 2 full baths (and a powder room), and 2 decks to enjoy the lovely wooded view:The finished lower level added to its appeal. It's a cozy spot with a rec room, brick wood-burning fireplace, and walk-out to the lower deck and fenced-in backyard. I hosted a very busy open house at 8855 Willowwood Way and was thrilled to call my seller the next day to present him with two offers. We were under contract in just 4 days and have already cleared inspections and the appraisal. It was such a beautifully busy few days that I didn't even get around to posting Just Listed pictures as promised in my teaser post. So, here you go.. a few more pictures of this cut...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
This delightful starter home in Jessup, MD, just hit the market. There's so much to love about this property, and I will share more info and some pictures soon. For now, allow me to tease you with its fabulous location. 8855 Willowwood Way is not only convenient to Fort Meade and NSA, but it's just 1.5 miles, or a 6-minute drive, from historic Savage Mill and one of my favorite coffee shops! Besides getting the best lattes and European pastries (and vegan croissants!), there's much more to do at the Mill, you can go antiquing, thrifting, crafting, dining, ghost walking, and adventuring. You can even get married there - and what a beautiful spot to exchange vows and celebrate it is!If you would love to be close to a local gem that is Savage Mill, and are looking for a starter home, then ...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
5251 Candy Root CourtGlenmontColumbia, Md 21145MLS MD2043752Welcome to your five-bedroom home in the heart of Columbia! This property is conveniently located near major roads, including 95, 90, 70, 29, and 100, for an easy commute. Nestled on a corner lot on a private court, this home is surrounded by mature trees and adjacent to county land, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility.  Note: it's the only house on this block. You have easy access to one of Columbia's renowned paved walking trails.NO CPRA fees!Upstairs, check out the open overlook and discover the versatile two-room primary suite with an adjoining bathroom and dressing room. This additional room provides endless possibilities, whether used as a separate sleeping area, a cozy TV room, a home office, or an expansive dr...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
5251 Candy Root Ct 21045 MDHW2043752Welcome to your new five-bedroom home in Columbia! This beautiful property is conveniently located near major roads, including 95, 90, 70, 29, and 100, making your commute a breeze. Enjoy the corner lot on a private court, fenced by mature trees and adjacent to county land. You'll also be close to one of the many paved walking trails that Columbia is known for."   Check out the versatile two-room primary suite with an adjoining bathroom and dressing room. The additional room is perfect for a separate sleeping area, TV room, office, or spacious dressing room.  With extra rooms on the first floor, this home offers the flexibility of using them as additional bedrooms if needed. The cathedral ceilings and two fireplaces add a touch of elegance and comfort...
Comments 6
By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
 Coming Soon Welcome to your new five-bedroom home in Columbia! This beautiful property is conveniently located near major roads, including 95, 90, 70, 29, and 100, making your commute a breeze. Enjoy the corner lot on a private court, fenced by mature trees and adjacent to county land. You'll also be close to one of the many paved walking trails that Columbia is known for." Check out the versatile two-room primary suite with an adjoining bathroom and dressing room. The additional room is perfect for a separate sleeping area, TV room, office, or spacious dressing room.   With extra rooms on the first floor, this home offers the flexibility of using them as additional bedrooms if needed. The cathedral ceilings and two fireplaces add a touch of elegance and comfort to the living space. Th...
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By June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Columbia, MD Named 4th Best Place to Find a JobThe results are in and Wallethub has named Columbia, MD as the 4th best city in the United States to find a job.Columbia, MD has also made the top 10 list of the best places to live in the United States.Built in the 1960s, Columbia is a master planned community made up of 10 villages. Each village has strict rules for home maintenance, including how long a resident can keep up holiday decorations, and what colors they can paint their homes, but they feature a wide range of housing types which was intended to promote economic diversity. Columbia property consists only of the territory governed by the Columbia Association but larger areas are included under the name by the U.S. Postal Service. These include several other communities which pre...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
The Brumbaugh House, ca. 1870, is in historic Elkridge, MD - Howard County's first settlement. Thanks to the efforts of the Elkridge Heritage Society, this Victorian with its characteristic turret and front porch has been well preserved. It was the home and workplace of Dr. Benjamin Bruce Brumbaugh who took up residence in 1919 and operated a medical practice on the main floor for six decades. Dr. B., as he was known, was quite the local legend. I have a neighbor who remembers him making house calls in the Elkridge community, even after he retired. Dr. B. only charged his patients $2 per visit which he didn't increase until 1969 and only by $1. "I'd rather treat them for free of charge than have them think I'm overcharging. I work just to keep alive, not for what I can get out of it."Wh...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Beginning the month in the best ways, I just got the clear-to-close on our land for sale in Silver Spring, MD, and I just received another 5-star review from an awesome buyer client. Here are the kind words my buyer Chuck, who purchased with a VA loan, left for me:Chuck's story is a VA success story! He persevered. He was motivated, realistic, and not afraid of earning sweat equity. As much as I would love to work with Chuck again, I hope he loves coming home so much that he won't be thinking about buying another one anytime soon.May started just wonderful and there's more to come, a settlement in the next couple of weeks, a listing appointment mid-month, and a new Silver Spring, MD listing in the second half of the month. I've also been house-hunting with some buyers. Hearing offer acc...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Among my favorite coffee shops in Howard County is the Old Mill Cafe in historic Ellicott City. It's located just across the bridge from Main Street with its charming boutiques, and at the beginning (or end) of the Number 9 Trolley Trail, a 1.25-mile scenic boardwalk and paved trail. Parking is available out front or around the corner in parking lot A on Oella Avenue. Their interior is cozy and the patio is just a great spot to enjoy brunch and one of their artisanal lattes. Dogs are welcome on the patio! My new favorite is the Lavender Vanilla Latte. It is so good! Old Mill uses sustainably sourced and locally roasted Orinoco beans, and they offer quite a selection of pastries, homemade crepes and sandwiches, desserts, quiches, and soups. You can also pick up a jar of local honey while...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Updating an Out-of-Date Bathroom Not all bathrooms are modern spa experiences. And in some cases, old and out-of-date bathrooms can be frustrating to use. They often have a lack of storage or space. But what can you do to make the space more functional and work for your family? Here are some tips to get you started:A fresh coat of paintThere is nothing a fresh coat of paint can't fix. It's simply the most affordable option to transform a room. Choose a color that matches your design aesthetic. Choose something in a light shade if you want the room to feel more open. Dark and jewel-tone colors can make the space pop for a more dramatic effect.Install wainscotting or tile boardInstalling wainscotting or tile board can give your bathroom a whole new look without requiring a huge constructi...
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By June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
#4 Best City to Live in Maryland - Ellicott CityIn keeping with a theme, The World Atlas published a list of the 7 best cities to live in Maryland last week. The number 4 city is Ellicott City. Ellicott City is the largest unincorporated county seat in the country.Ellicott City was founded in 1772 and is located along the Patapsco River. Ellicott City is known for its historic architecture and old-town feel along its historic main street which is lined with unique shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants.And, for the history buffs, the Ellicott City Station, the oldest surviving railroad depot in America, is now a museum dedicated to the city's role in the Industrial Revolution. The Ellicott City Firehouse Museum explores the challenges of fighting fires in the late 19th and early 20th centu...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
Coming up! The best time to sell your Lake Elkhorn home in Columbia, MD. With temperatures warming, turtles sunbathing, trees greening, and people out and about walking, jogging, and biking around Lake Elkhorn, spring is the best time to list and sell your home on or near the lake. The colors are going to be popping in all professional photography which - by the way - should showcase life at the lake and all it has to offer. If you are so lucky to have a home with premium lake views, then you really get to show it off during this time of the year. Interested in selling your Lake Elkhorn home? Let's get in touch! With 20 years in the business, I have the experience and expertise to generate the best offers. It takes more than just a For Sale sign. I will show you how we'll get your home ...
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By Andrea Bedard, Fluent in Real Estate & German, M.A. ABR ASP CIPS
(Thompson Company, REALTORS® 240.593.2860)
(Dedicated) buyer's agents do A LOT more than just open a few doors. In this series, I'll highlight a few tales from the Real Estate trenches to emphasize just that. The value of a buyer's agent: protecting the client's best interest, part 2I've been working with a loyal investor client for a few years now, and am always on the lookout for him. One morning, a condo in Columbia, MD caught my eye that had been listed just moments prior. Although it had been vacant for some time, with utilities shut off, and needed some TLC, it was priced well below comparable sales (as it should but that's not always the case). My client already owned property in the development and was familiar with the location, condo amenities, and regulations. I knew it would pique his interest, and it did! We schedul...
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By Jessica Hood, REALTOR®, The Roskelly Team - Fort Meade Area Real Estate
(The Roskelly Team)
Where are the best places to live near Fort Meade, MD?   As Fort Meade real estate specialists and PCS pros, we get asked that a lot. So we're sharing our customer's top choices with you.  The Roskelly Team has the inside scoop on some of our most requested cities in Howard County that are within a 30 minute commute to the Fort Meade.  First, we want to tell you a little bit about the area surrounding the base.  Fort Meade is unique in that it is within close proximity to 4 different counties.  Anne Arundel County, where the base is housed, Howard County to the west, Baltimore county to the north, and Prince George's County to the South.  We're going to break this down by county, covering Howard county here and list the top city picks  within 30 minutes of Fort Meade based on our decade...
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By Buzz Mackintosh, “Experience, reliable, leadership”
(Mackintosh REALTORS)
Welcome to 18745 Penn Shop Rd, Mount Airy, MD                                       (follow this link for more details)A beautiful private 18.45-acre setting, family farm/kennel operation with a special zoning exception. The farmhouse features 3 BR 2 full baths approximately 2,400 sqft +/-, a large country kitchen, dining area with wood floors, deck off rear, main level bedroom and full bath, upper level has 2 bedrooms, full bath, large pond, many outbuildings. Detached garage with electric, heat/ AC system  and additional kennel runs on the side. Kennel building is 3,632 sqft w/ bathroom, plus 1,560 sqft with Kennel runs,10 paddocks, one 100" X 100 " lighted (flood lights) play yard/training area/event area Cattery room, kitchen with 5 stainless steel restaurant sinks, 2 stainless stee...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a roofing company based in Columbia, MD, wants to point out that they don’t just provide roofing services but also soffit and fascia repair in Howard County. They are a leading provider of top-quality soffit and fascia repair and replacement services in the area. This is important because the soffit and fascia play a vital role in protecting the home from pests, moisture, and structural damage. The skilled technicians at Ridgeline Roofers fully understand the importance of these parts and are experienced and equipped to offer seamless solutions for the soffit and fascia that combine aesthetic appeal with functionality.A spokesperson for Ridgeline Roofers Columbia says, “At Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, we believe in delivering tailored solutions that align with...
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