Family LifeLocal Community Events May 12, 2023

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas – Top 10 Trending Gifts for 2023

Top 10 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for 2023

Unique & Personalized Gift Ideas Mom Is Sure To Love!

Looking for the perfect Mother’s day gift ideas? Discover the top 10 trending Mother’s Day gift ideas for 2023, Show your love with these unique presents. Are you ready to show your mom just how much you appreciate her this Mother’s Day? Look no further! We’ve got the ultimate guide to make this Mother’s Day extra special with our top-notch Mother’s Day gift ideas. From heartfelt surprises to personalized treasures, we’ve curated a list of the most thoughtful and unforgettable presents that will bring a smile to your mom’s face. Whether she’s a fashionista, a foodie, or an avid gardener, we have something perfect in store for every mom out there. So, get ready to spoil your mom with the best Mother’s Day gift ideas that she’ll cherish forever

Mother's day gift ideas

Mother’s Day Personalized Photo Collage

 

1.Personalized Photo Collage Mother’s Day Gift Idea

A personalized photo collage is a thoughtful and sentimental gift that mom will cherish forever. Choose your favorite family photos and have them arranged into a beautiful collage. Purchase at SHOP PERSONALIZED PHOTO COLLAGE GIFTS

2.Smart Home Device

Help mom make her life easier with a smart home device. From controlling the lights to playing music, these devices are a great addition to any home. Purchase at SHOP SMART HOME DEVICES FOR MOM

3. Custom Jewelry Gift

Give mom a piece of jewelry that’s as unique as she is. From birthstone necklaces to custom engraved bracelets, there are a variety of options to choose from. Purchase at https://www.bluenile.com/jewelry/gifts/mothers-day-gifts

Mother's Day Gift Idea

A Kindle device is a great gift for the mom who loves to read!

4.  Kindle E-Reader

For the book-loving mom, a Kindle e-reader is a must-have. With access to thousands of books, she’ll never be without something to read. Purchase at SHOP KINDLE DEVICE GIFTS FOR MOM

 

5.  Luxury Bathrobe

Help mom relax and unwind with a luxurious bathrobe. From plush cotton to silky satin, there’s a bathrobe for every style and budget. Purchase at SHOP FOR LUXURY BATHROBE GIFTS FOR MOTHERS DAY

6. Fitness Tracker:

For the health-conscious mom, a fitness tracker is a great way to stay on top of her fitness goals. From step tracking to heart rate monitoring, these devices have it all. Purchase at SHOP FITNESS TRACKERS FOR MOM

7.  Custom Family Portrait

A custom family portrait is a unique and thoughtful gift that mom will love. Choose your favorite family photo and have it turned into a beautiful portrait. Purchase at SHOP CUSTOM PORTRAITS FOR MOTHERS DAY

8.  Air Fryer

 Air Fryer -Mother's Day gift ideas

Air fryer with delicious crispy food inside is a great Mother’s Day Gift IIdea!

For the mom who loves to cook, an air fryer is a game-changer. From crispy chicken to perfect fries, these devices make cooking healthy meals a breeze. Purchase at SHOP FOR AIR FRYERS FOR MOTHERS DAY!

9. Personalized Recipe Box

Give mom a place to keep all of her favorite recipes with a personalized recipe box. Choose her favorite color and have her name engraved on the front. Purchase at SHOP FOR PERSONALIZED RECIPE BOXES

10. Subscription Box

Keep the Mother’s Day love going all year long with a subscription box. From beauty products to books, there’s a subscription box for every interest. Purchase at SHOP FOR MOTHER’S DAY SUBSCRIPTION BOXES

Mother’s Day Things To Do

Make sure you check out Find My Maryland Dream Home Things To Do Page for updates on local Mother’s Day Events Happening on Mother’s Day Weekend FIND MY MARYLAND DREAM HOME THINGS TO DO

With these top 10 trending Mother’s Day gift ideas for 2023, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for the special mom in your life. Whether it’s a personalized gift or the latest tech gadget, she’ll appreciate the thought and effort you put into finding the perfect present.

Home Buying April 26, 2023

Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: 5 Steps To Owning A Home

 

Are you planning to purchase a home in the next six months? If so, it’s crucial to start preparing your finances, credit, and employment now to get pre-approved for a mortgage. To make the process more manageable, follow these five steps:

Step 1: Check Your Credit Score When Preparing To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage

The first step in getting pre-approved for a mortgage is to check your credit score. You can obtain your credit report from the three major bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. It’s crucial to understand where you stand with your credit score because it impacts the interest rate and loan terms you’ll receive. If your credit score is low, take steps to improve it over the next few months. If you suspect identity fraud, consider freezing your credit and reporting fraud. Additionally, don’t forget to check your Equifax credit report now!

 

 

importance of checking your credit score when preparing to buy a new home

Check Your Credit Score When Preparing To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage

 

 

If you suspect identity fraud, you can click here to freeze your credit and report fraud. Don’t forget to check your Equifax credit report n

CHECK YOUR EQUIFAX CREDIT REPORT NOW!

SUSPECT IDENTITY FRAUD? CLICK HERE TO FREEZE YOUR CREDIT & REPORT FRAUD!

CHECK YOUR EQUIFAX CREDIT REPORT NOW!

Step 2: Get Your Finances in Order

To determine the right mortgage amount, it’s important to review your monthly income and expenses and create a budget that accounts for all expenses, including homeownership costs. This way, you’ll know what you can afford, and it’ll be easier to make adjustments to your spending habits so you can save money for a down payment and closing costs.

Step 3: Save for a Down Payment

Saving for a larger down payment increases your chances of being approved for a lower interest rate on your mortgage. Although it’s recommended to save 20% of the home’s purchase price, any amount saved will help improve your chances of being approved.

Step 4: Get Pre-Approved

Once you’ve completed the above steps, it’s time to apply for a pre-approval with a lender. You’ll need to submit documentation of your employment status, income, assets, and debts. The lender will review this information and provide a loan pre-approval letter outlining the terms and conditions of the loan. Click here to find out if you qualify for a mortgage now!

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A MORTGAGE NOW!

Step 5: Work with Your Real Estate Agent When Getting Pre-Approved For A Mortgage

After getting pre-approved for a mortgage, it’s time to start working with a real estate agent. An experienced agent can help you find properties within your budget and negotiate the best deal for you. Throughout the home-buying process, your agent can provide valuable resources.

In conclusion, planning and preparation are necessary for homeownership. By following these five steps, you can make the process of getting pre-approved for a mortgage more manageable. To recap, check your credit score, get your finances in order, save for a down payment, get pre-approved, and work with a real estate agent. Don’t forget to contact me today for more tips on preparing to buy a new home!

CONTACT ME TODAY FOR MORE TIPS ON PREPARING TO BUY A NEW HOME!

 

Home Buying April 24, 2023

Buying a Second Home: Tips for First-Time Buyers

 REASONS FOR BUYING A SECOND HOME?

The Ultimate Guide to Buying A Second Home will help maximize the most profit form your investment. Now is a great time to invest in a second home due to low interest rates. However, to ensure a successful investment, there are several factors to keep in mind. The ultimate guide for investing in a second home can help you navigate the process.

Start by determining your reasons for purchasing a second home. Do you want a vacation home, a rental property, or a retirement home? This will greatly impact the location and the type of property you choose.

Find Out Top Reasons For Buying A Second Home In 2023!

 

 

How to know when you are ready to buy a second home

Thinking an out buying a second home? Answer these questions to see if you are ready!

WHAT LOCATION IS BEST FOR BUYING A SECOND HOME?

Choosing the right location is critical when purchasing a second home. To begin with, research locations with strong rental markets if rental income is a top priority. Other factors to consider include the local economic and political climate, which can impact the value of your investment. Additionally, proximity to amenities, climate, and local attractions are important.

Working with a real estate agent who specializes in your desired location can be invaluable as you search for your second home. They can provide their expertise and knowledge of the local market, help you find the best deals, and negotiate more favorable terms. They may even have inside information on upcoming homes hitting the market, giving you an advantage in your search.

In summary, carefully consider factors such as rental potential, local amenities, and near by attractions when buying a second home. It’s also imperative to work with a specialized agent who can provide valuable insights and help you find the right property at the best price. Don’t overlook the benefits of working with an expert in the local market as you pursue your dream of owning a second home.

Check Out The Top Locations People Are Buying A Second d Home in 2023

 

WHAT TYPE OF SECOND HOME ?

Choosing the right kind of second home requires careful consideration of various options. Some individuals may want to purchase a vacation home.  Exploring popular tourist destinations like beach towns, ski resorts, or lakefront properties, can offer  the option to rent and earn rental income while enjoying the home as a place to stay on vacation,  Others may opt for rental properties to generate income or vacation rentals for short-term stays. For retirees, a second home may serve as a permanent residence. Those interested in real estate investment may consider buying a property to renovate and resell at a profit.

In addition, families can benefit from having a second home as a place for extended family gatherings in a favorite vacation spot or a central location convenient for all family members. Ultimately, the decision on the type of second home to buy depends on goals and priorities. It’s important to weigh all options carefully and choose a second home that best suits your unique needs and desires, whether for rental income or simply as a place to relax and unwind.

6 ways to make your down payment when buying a second home

Not sure how to finance the purchase of your second home? Consider these ways to make your down payment!

WHAT FINANCING CAN I USE WHEN BUYING A SECOND HOME?

Deciding on the right type of financing is one of the most important factors to consider hen buying a second home.  Typically, a larger down payment is required for a second home compared to a primary residence. However, some lenders offer programs tailored to second home buyers. Let’s explore some financing options for your second home.

A conventional mortgage is a great option, especially if you have a good credit score and a steady income. This option provides flexible terms, repayment options, and lower interest rates that can save you money over time.

If you are considering buying a vacation home, FHA is a good way to go!  FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and can be used to purchase vacation homes or rental properties. FHA loans can be a good choice for those with lower credit scores or smaller down payments.

A home equity loan or line of credit can be a viable solution since it offers more flexibility. A home equity loan would require using your primary residence as collateral. However, it’s essential to note that these loans have higher interest rates and require a good credit score.

In any case, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified loan officer to determine which option is best for you. With the right financing, you can turn your dream of owning a second home in Maryland into a reality

Learn More Details On Mortgage Company Financing Options When Buying A Second Home

 

real estate agent showing a man and a lady a potential home that has large windows with a lot of natural light

Hiring a licensed Real Estate Agent experienced in the location you desire to buy your second home is a crucial part of the process!

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL WHEN BUYING A SECOND HOME

It’s crucial to hire a professional who can understand your needs and help you achieve your goals when buying a second home. Take the time to research and select the best person for the job.

Working with the right professionals from the start of your process will ultimately make your journey easier.  For example, you could consider using a property management company to furnish and decorate your property. This can provide valuable advice and support, as well as help with preparing your home for rent and handling any maintenance or repairs needed.

Additionally, it’s important to work with a real estate agent who specializes in the purchase of second homes. An experienced agent, can guide you through the buying process while providing insights on the local market.  negotiating with sellers to ensure the best deal possible is a critical skill that you want mastered by the agent you hire.  By choosing the right professionals, you can make your second home purchase a successful and stress-free experience.

CONTACT ME TODAY TO BEGIN YOUR SEARCH AND FIND YOUR SECOND HOME!Home

Uncategorized April 15, 2023

Discover Your Baltimore or Harford County Home’s True Value

 “Discover Your Home’s True Value: Importance of Requesting a Market Analysis”

If you’re considering selling your home in the Harford and Baltimore County area, it’s essential to know how much your home is worth in today’s real estate market. By requesting a market analysis, you can determine a fair price range and make informed decisions about listing your home for sale. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of requesting a market analysis, why relying on platforms like Zillow may not be accurate, and why you should choose me as your go-to agent to create a comprehensive CMA.

Real estate agent providing a consultation to a couple in front of a house

Get expert advice from a real estate agent you can trust! Our knowledgeable agents are here to guide you through the home selling process and provide accurate assessments of your property’s worth. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your real estate goals.

 

 

 

Importance of Requesting a Market Analysis

A market analysis, also known as a comparative market analysis (CMA), is a report that provides an evaluation of your home’s value based on recent sales of similar properties in your area. By requesting a CMA, you can determine a fair asking price for your home and ensure that you’re not overpricing or underpricing it.

As a real estate agent, I understand that every home is unique, and several factors must be considered when calculating its value. These factors may include the location, size, age, condition, and features of your home, as well as recent sales trends in your area.

Why Relying on Zillow May Not Be Accurate

Although Zillow and other real estate platforms can provide an estimate of your home’s value, they may not always be accurate. These platforms use algorithms that rely on publicly available data, which may not take into account recent upgrades or repairs you’ve made to your home.

Additionally, Zillow , Trulia  and other real estate platforms may not consider the unique features of your home, such as its location, lot size, or condition. These factors can significantly impact your home’s value and are best evaluated by a professional real estate agent.

 

 

Pricing your home at a “competitive” price point at the start of your home sale is the best way to go! A price to high will cause the home to sit on the market and than once you have reduced the price, many buyers will think the house has issues and avoid even considering your home as an option

 

 

Choose Me as Your Go-To Agent for a Comprehensive CMA

As an experienced real estate agent in the Harford and Baltimore County area, I can provide you with a comprehensive CMA that takes into account all of the unique features of your home. I understand that every home is different and will work with you to ensure that you receive an accurate and fair market analysis.

By choosing me as your agent, you’ll receive personalized attention, expert guidance and top notch customer service throughout the entire home selling process. I’ll help you determine a competitive asking price that will get your home the attention required to get possible multiple offers and a higher chance of selling over the list price!

 

In conclusion, requesting a market analysis is a crucial step in determining the value of your home in the Harford and Baltimore County area. While platforms like Zillow can provide an estimate, it’s best to rely on the expertise of a professional real estate agent to provide a comprehensive CMA. Contact me today to schedule a market analysis and get started on the path to selling your home.

Uncategorized April 15, 2023

Harford County Home Values

How to Determine Your Harford County Home Value with a Market Analysis

If you’re considering selling your home in Harford County, it’s crucial to know its true value in today’s real estate market. Notably, Harford County home values have been on the rise for the past 2 years. A market analysis, also known as a comparative market analysis (CMA), can provide you with an accurate evaluation of your home’s worth. This evaluation is based on recent sales of similar properties in your area. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why requesting a CMA is essential, how to do it, and why you should choose a local real estate agent like us to help you through the process.

Real estate agent providing a consultation to a couple in front of a house

Harford County Home Values have been on the rise! You need an expert in your area that can guide you through the home selling process and provide accurate assessments of your Harford County home value. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your real estate goals.

Why Requesting a Market Analysis is Crucial

If you’re selling your Harford County home, know its value in today’s market. Home values rise. Request a CMA for an accurate evaluation based on similar properties sold. Learn why it’s essential and how to choose a local agent like us to help.

A photo of a house with a "for sale" sign, representing the importance of determining your Harford County Home Value

Contact a local expert to get an accurate Harford County Home Value. Pricing your home to high can cause your home to sit on the market for to long, giving many buyers the “idea” that your house may have issues preventing buyers from even considering your home as an option. Pricing your home at a “competitive” price point is the best way to go!

 

 

How to Request a Market Analysis

Requesting a market analysis is simple. All you need to do is contact a local real estate agent knowledgable of your homes market area.  An Agent with expertise in the market area of your home can provide you with a comprehensive and accurate CMA. This report should include information about recent sales of similar homes in your area, as well as information about the unique features of your home, such as its location, size, age, condition, and any recent upgrades or repairs you’ve made.

 

Why Choose a Local Real Estate Agent

Although online platforms like ZILLOW can estimate your home’s value, they may not be accurate. A local agent provides a comprehensive CMA and considers all factors. Furthermore, a local agent provides personalized attention, expert guidance, and top-notch customer service.

 

REQUEST YOUR HARFORD COUNTY HOME VALUE REPORT NOW!

Determining your Harford County home value with a market analysis is crucial if you’re considering selling your home. Furthermore, by requesting a CMA, you can ensure that you’re pricing your home competitively and avoid overpricing or underpricing it. Choose a local real estate agent like me to provide you with a comprehensive and accurate market analysis and help you through the entire home selling process. Contact me today to get started!

To research more information about Harford County home sales check out the links below:

Maryland Realtor Association

Home & GardenHome BuyingHome Owner TipsHome SellingLocal Community EventsOpen House February 3, 2023

Nottingham Open House 2/4/2023 1 to 3pm!

8403 Tachbrook Rd, Nottingham, MD

$365000

4bed – 2bath – 5490 sqft lot

Beautifully designed home. 4 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths. Hardwood floors throughout most of the main level. Modern kitchen with granite counter-tops, soft-close cabinets, and Stainless Steel appliances. Absolutely huge Rec Room in the finished basement. Nice sized yard and concrete driveway. Excellent location in White Marsh. No HOA fees!

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Open House June 3, 2022

Open House Saturday June 4th @ 3000 Raking Leaf Drive In Abingdon

3000 Raking Leaf Drive, Abingdon, Maryland

OPEN HOUSE Sat, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Get Updated Eflyer

$ Click for current price
4 BEDROOMS | 3 full, 1 half baths BATHROOMS | 1680 SqFt

Welcome To 3000 Raking Leaf Drive located in the sought after community of Autumn Run! You will not want to miss out on this charming, 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath, End Of Group Townhome, offering over 1,600 Square Foot of finished living space! The first floor features a spacious Living room, half bath, large eat in kitchen with Island, large pantry & kitchen sliders that lead out to the composite deck overlooking the, white vinyl, fully fenced backyard. The yard backs to the common area with a playground and walking trails! The upper level has a large Primary Bedroom with a HUGE walk in closet, full bath, cathedral ceilings & lots of natural light. Right down the hall you will find 2 additional bedrooms along with another full bathroom, hallway linen closet and attic access. The fully finished, walk out basement, offers a spacious rec/family room, laundry room with storage, another full bath, and a 4th bedroom that could also be used as an Office!

Home & Garden May 12, 2022

How To Grow Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangeas That’ll Make Your Neighbors Envious!

Unusual colors in the blooms distinguish this showy summer-flowering shrub.  Learn how to grow vanilla strawberry hydrangeas in your garden and be the envy of the neighborhood!

 

Where to Plant Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

Like most panicle hydrangeas, ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ does best in full sun, thought it appreciates afternoon shade in warmer climates in the southern and western regions of the country. Its mature height is 6-7 feet, with a spread of 4-5 feet so make sure to plant it where it will have room to reach its full size. This summer-flowering shrub is hardy in Zones 4-9.

How to Grow Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

The two best times to plant ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ occur in spring before rapid growth sets in, and in late autumn, just as this panicle hydrangea is going dormant. Choose a spot with rich, well-drained soil or add compost if the soil is poor. Dig a hole that’s deep enough and wide enough for the root ball to sit in comfortably. Make sure the stem is at the same depth of soil as it was in its container.

Once planted, keep your new ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ hydrangea well watered. Depending on the size you’re starting with, expect your plant to begin blooming a year or two after planting. Pests and diseases are not typically a problem. And deer don’t prefer hydrangeas, but to play it safe, apply a repellent if you live where deer like to visit.

Pruning Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

This type of hydrangea blooms on new growth, instead of the previous season’s stems like some other hydrangea varieties do. That means you don’t need to worry about cutting off the next season’s blooms when you trim your plant or a late spring frost zapping all the blooms for the season. Plus, the blooms that remain at season’s end provide wintertime interest; they’ll dry and turn a parchment color. To remove the old flowers to make way for new ones, and to encourage fresh growth, the best time to prune this hydrangea is after the worst of winter’s cold has passed (February or March). You can trim it back by as much as a third every year.

Cut Hydrangea Bouquets

‘Vanilla Strawberry’ makes an excellent cut-flower. Simply snip off blooms and group several together for stunning hydrangea bouquets. Or, add complementary blooms in purple and yellow as well as foliage for more variety in hydrangea bouquets. The flowers can also be cut and dried for indoor decor, too.

What to Plant with Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

Because of its size, ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ hydrangea is a great back-of-the-border or foundation shrub. It also makes a fantastic flowering hedge plant. While it can stand alone, the pretty white, pink, and red blooms are well-complemented by smaller shrubs or plants in purples, similar shades of pink, or even foliage-focused plants that are lower-growing.

Whether you’re looking for a new flowering shrub for your garden or a cut flower for your vase, this hydrangea’s huge, beautiful blooms will provide a splash of long-lasting color you can enjoy all summer long.

Home BuyingHome Selling May 4, 2022

Improve Your Packing Process With These Tips

Packing up your home for a move might seem simple but there are ways to make it even simpler. With some extra planning, organization and creativity you can make your packing process easier and more efficient. Improve Your Packing Process With These Tips

Gather Supplies First

Before you pack, make sure you have all the supplies you need (and maybe extra). Stock up on tape, packing paper, bubble wrap and any essential tools like scissors in easily accessible places. If possible, get more than you think you need. This makes you less likely to run out in the middle of packing and will also set you up with supplies for your next move.

Use the Best Bags & Boxes

You can use the same cardboard boxes for moving as you would for shipping. However, there are some advantages to boxes made specifically for moving. The greatest one is the inclusion of handles. Boxes with well-made handle cutouts can make packing, unpacking and organization much simpler. Sometimes you can find moving boxes made of heavier-duty cardboard that can handle more weight, as well.

For bags, avoid using regular garbage bags and opt for the extra thick variety that won’t rip in the middle of your move.

Keep Cords & Components Labeled

When packing electronic components, computer parts or anything that has cords or wires, save time by labeling everything. Packing small cords or cables in clear plastic bags will help you see exactly what’s inside and give you the option to organize by room, family member or otherwise. You can use the same strategy for furniture items that have small removable parts like screws. Label the bag and and you’ll be able to find them much quicker when it’s time to rebuild.

Pack an Essentials Box

There are few things more frustrating than forgetting where you packed your toothbrush. Almost as vexing is knowing where essential items are but have no way to get to them when needed. To avoid this issue and to make yourself as comfortable as possible during your move, pack a special essentials box for yourself. Include important toiletries, medications, a change of clothes and whatever you will want to have your first night in the new home. Pack this box last and you’ll be able to unpack it first, saving you time and frustration later.

Packing best practices are different for everyone and every move. However, you can greatly Improve Your Packing Process With These Tips.  Using these tips should be able to save time and effort in your process and make your move as smooth as possible.

Open House May 4, 2022

Open House 3307 Yorkway Saturday May7th 1-3pm

3307 Yorkway, Dundulk, MD

$275000

3bed – 2bath – 0.12 sqft lot

Welcome Home to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath Cape Cod!  Huge bedroom on first floor, 2 huge bedrooms upstairs.  You wont want for sapce or storage in this home!  Updated kitchen, ( with large pantry) and baths.  New roof and gutters ( with warranty).  New exterior paint 2022.  New sump pump 2022. New basement and exterior drain 2021.  Appliances about 5 years old.  Wine/beverage fridge never used!  Most windows in the home have been replaced with in the last 5 years.  Most rooms have been painted!  New 100 amp panel replacement.  New smoke detectors and carpet throughout!  This home has a full hieght (unfinished) basement with walk out stairs to back yard.  Many homes in the area do not have the luxury of a basement.  This home is being sold “as is ”   Showings begin 5/6!  Open House on Saturday May 7th from 1-3pm!

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