Fort Meade - USNA - Andrews AFB

Grants for Military and DOD/DHS Civilian Homebuyers

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:14:24 -0700

PCSing to Fort Meade, Andrews AFB, Naval Station Annapolis, or The Pentagon? Relocating for a civilian job at the Department of Defense or Homeland Security?

You may be eligible for a $5,000 grant to help you buy a detached home, townhome or condo, using a 30-year fixed-rate loan. This grant is available through the Dream Makers Program of the Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) Foundation, but you don't have to be a member of PenFed to qualify.

Eligibility requirements:

Military (Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard or Veteran)
OR civilian employees at the DOD or DHS
First-time home buyers
OR you haven't owned a home for the last three years
OR you lost your home through divorce or disaster
$55,000 annual income maximum
OR 80% of the amount earned by a smiliar family in the area

You are expected to contribute at least $500 toward the down payment, and Dream Makers will match your contribution three-to-one up to a maximum of $5,000. The combined total of your contribution plus the Dream Makers grant must be enough for a 3% down payment on the home.

To receive the maximum grant of $5,000, your contribution would be $1666 toward the down payment. The combined total of $6,666 would satsify the requirement for a 3% down payment on a home selling for approximately $220,000. You can use the Dream Makers grant for an FHA loan, but keep in mind that FHA actually requires 3.5% down, not 3% (approximately $1100 more); you can also use it toward a VA loan, which has no down payment requirement.

You can find a home priced in the low $200's in some communities near Fort Meade, Andrews AFB, and Naval Station Annapolis, and I would be happy to identify them for you.

Click on the Dream Makers application form now, before you even find a home or choose a lender, to confirm you are eligible.

Thank you PenFed!

DISCLAIMER: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
__________________________________

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

It sold too fast!

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:34:47 -0700

Crofton Home Sold In One Day! The marketing flyer was prepared but not yet printed, the photo slideshow was made but not yet posted to my blog, the YouTube video was submitted but not yet processed, the photo postcards for targeted mailing were made, addressed and stamped, but not yet mailed. An agent open house was the one marketing activity that I had a chance to complete. But I'm not complaining.

The first prospect to view my new listing after it went into MRIS yesterday wrote an offer. The offer was presented, countered, and accepted tonight. It sounds quick and easy, but it really wasn't - especially for the seller.

The seller and her family invested two months in preparing the home for sale. It took a lot of physical and emotional energy to sort through and pack a lifetime of treasures, a financial investment in inspections and contractors... and perfect timing. Their hard work was done just in time for me to capture the cherry trees in bloom for listing photos.

In this case, my patience and wise counsel to the seller throughout the home sale preparation was the catalyst for getting good results. Sometimes that's even more important than marketing.

I'm betting this is going to be one of those smooth transactions where everyone will live happily every after.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Where's YOUR agent... front row or nosebleed section?

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 12:19:41 -0700

Take a look at this seating chart for Comcast Center, the basketball arena at University of Maryland. You'll notice a lot of pretty colors, each representing a more or less desirable section for seating, a wide range of prices, and different expectations.

It's a little like the real estate arena, don't you think? Consumers can reserve a seat in the "purple"section at a lower price, knowing before they step foot into Comcast that they saved a lot of money over those people who are sitting court-side to watch the very same basketball game. The question is this: "Where's YOUR agent... front row or nosebleed section? It's important to know so your expectations are realistic.

If you want to the best possible experience in today's real estate market, I have a seat reserved for you in the V.I.P. section. If you "just" want to see the game, and you don't mind sitting in a discount or limited view seat, you can probably find scalpers in the parking lot who are more than willing to sell you a ticket. But don't expect to have the same view of the game or to savor the experience quite as much. Your choice of seats at this game will make a difference!

'Hope you enjoyed my tongue-in-cheek analogy. Please contact me for more information about what you can expect as one of my clients.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Waterfront Homes for Sale in Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 23:05:41 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Relocating to Anne Arundel County? If you're interested in a waterfront lifestyle, here is an overview of properties on the market at this time.

ANNAPOLIS - 79 detached waterfront homes for sale.

They range from a bungalow on Black Walnut Creek on the market for $450,000 to Stonewater Estate, a mansion overlooking 8' of deep water on Crab Creek.

RIVA - 10 waterfront detached homes for sale

Homes range from $765,000 for a small 56-year old home on the South River to $2,795,000 for a 4 bedroom 4 bath home on an acre, on the South River

ARNOLD - 24 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from a 78-year old rancher situated on 1/3 acre and 2-3 ft. deep water on Lake Placid, opening to the Magothy River, to a $3,495,000 home on the Magothy River, with more than 4' MLW.

SEVERNA PARK - 24 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from $789,000 for a brick rancher on Smugglers Cove, on the Magothy, to $3,450,000 for a stunning 7 bedroom, 7 bath home on the Severn River.

CHURCHTON - 7 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from a traditional-style 3 bedroom rancher located on Deep Cove, with just 2' of MLW, to a frame colonial with a pier right on the Chesapeake Bay.

DEALE - 9 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from a small home on .18 acre with sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay at $499,099 to a newer home overlooking the Bay at $1,595,000, with 169' of waterfront.

CROWNSVILLE - 6 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from a 50-year old multi-level frame home at $775,000 on the Severn River in Sunrise Beach to a large home on 8' of water in the same community at $3,500,000.

CURTIS BAY - 6 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from $525,000 for a bungalow on 8' of water on Back Cove to another a brick rancher with 300' of waterfront, at $1,900,000.

EDGEWATER - 59 detached waterfront homes for sale

Homes range from a 4-bedroom $430,000 home on Glebe Creek with 4' MLW to a $9,500,000 home located on Brewer Creek, with 8' of MLW.

GALESVILLE - 2 detached waterfront homes for sale.

A colonial built in 2004, on the West River, at $750,000 and a another home built in 2007 that is a mirror image of the first, at $775,000

GIBSON ISLAND - 7 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Hones range from $2,450,000 for 250' of waterfront on the Magothy River at the Chesapeake Bay, to a stunning contemporary on Otter Pond, with just 2' MLW, at $6,000,000.

GLEN BURNIE - 18 detached waterfront homes for sale.

Homes range from $195,000 for a teeny 2 bedroom rancher on Marley Creek to a large home on Nabb Creek, for $1,099,000.

There are 100 more detached waterfront homes for sale in Anne Arundel County, including some in Lake Shore, North Beach, Orchard Beach, Pasadena, Shadyside, Tracy's Landing and West River. Additionally, there are 14 waterfront townhomes/condos for sale at this time.

As you can see, they come in all sizes and prices - from teeny to majestic, at a low of $195,000 all the way up to $13,000,000 plus. There are hundreds more homes for sale in Anne Arundel County that are water-privileged or water-oriented, and those will be less expensive, for the same neighborhoods.

RELATED LINKS:

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Historic Homes Outside the Naval Academy Gates

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 05:46:48 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

The Annapolis Visitor's Bureau describes Annapolis as "a place where history lives in a museum without walls." While this is true, history also lives within the walls of many homes outside Gate 1 of the U.S. Naval Academy. If you're relocating to Annapolis, these homes are just some of the historical treasures that will become your neighbors:

THE WILLIAM PACA HOUSE at 186 Prince George Street, one of the most elegant landmarks in Annapolis, is the restored home of William Paca, signer of the Declaration of Independence and Revolutionary-era Governor of Maryland. In 1965, the Historic Annapolis Foundation purchased this property from the Annapolis Hotel Corporation to save this landmark by rebuilding the 2-acre garden through extensive archaeological research and returning the house to its 18th-century appearance. It opened to the public in 1973.

Exhibits of antique furniture, silver and decorative arts highlight different aspects of everyday life in the 1760s and 1770s for William Paca, his wife, Mary, and other members of their household.

HAMMOND HARWOOD HOUSE, at 19 Maryland Avenue, is an elegant home from the Georgian period of the Golden Age of Annapolis's history, built for 25-year old Mathias Hammond, who had just inherited a lot of money. The American Revolution interfered with construction in 1776, and it's not know for sure when it was finished or if Hammond ever lived in the home. It is known that other prominent Annapolis families lived there including the Chase family, the Pinkneys, and the Harwoods. In the early 20th century, St. John's College owned the house, using it for classes and then as a fraternity house.

The Federated Garden Club of Maryland rented Hammond Harwood House from the college in 1938, and then bought it. It is now owned and managed by the Hammond-Harwood Association, which operates a museum showcasing a superb collection of decorative & fine arts, with special emphasis on Annapolis cabinetmaker John Shaw and paintings by Charles Wilson Peale and three other members of his family. Period rooms feature exquisite silver, china & furnishings of 18th and early 19th century. Visitors may visit the exhibition gallery and garden at no charge, and tours of the house are available,

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, on State Circle, has been the official residence of Maryland Governors for more than 125 years - since the Administration of Governor Oden Bowie. At that time, it was a Victorian mansion with a mansard roof. In 1935-36, the conversion of Government House to its present appearance took place and other renovations were done in 1947 and 1987.

Furnishing, paintings and other items in Government House include portraits by Charles Willson Peale, one of America's foremost portrait painters, and furnishings by Potthast, eminent Baltimore furniture makers of the 19th century. Beautiful pieces from around the nation and the world also decorate Government House, where visitors have included Mark Twain and Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

CHARLES CARROLL HOUSE

This historic home at 107 Duke of Gloucester Street is a restoration project in progress. It bears great historical significance to the state of Maryland and America as the home of Charles Carroll the Settler, first Attorney General of Maryland, his son Charles Carroll of Annapolis, and his grandson Charles Carroll of Carrollton. In spite of persecution and restrictions for his faith, Charles Carroll of Carrollton secured his family's vision of personal, political and religious freedom when he became the only Catholic to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

THE BARRACKS

The Barracks at 43 Pinkney Street is typical of the small downtown homes leased to provide housing for soldiers before they deployed to battle during the Revolutionary War. There was very little food available to the soldiers and the homes were meagerly furnished; any furniture in the house at the time was probably burned to provide heat. The building is now owned by the state of Maryland and was restored as part of a Bicentennial Project grant. It is managed by the Historic Annapolis Foundation and now houses the offices of Preservation Services.

Other historic properties described by Historic Annapolis on their website include 77 Main Street, 99 Main Street, Waterfront Warehouse, and Shiplap House.

RANDALL HOUSE

Randall House, an 1870 era house at 30 Randall Street built in the Victorian Italianate style, is currently a Bread & Breakfast operated by Jerry and Sandra Jenkins. The house is a "gem of old world elegance" with its original front porch, crown molding and doors. Other fabulous furnishings include a Schoenback crystal chandelier, handsome 1892 burl sideboard, walnut game table, and an Empire sofa from Sorrento.

For other historic homes that are now operated as a Bed & Breakfast, visit Historic Inns and Famous Homes of Annapolis.

HISTORIC HOMES FOR SALE

Why just visit, when you could own and live in an historic home outside the gates of the Naval Academy? There are 27 homes on the market in Annapolis right now over 100 years old - one of them is 238 years old. They are priced from $179,900 for a home at 7 Ridout Street to a fixer-upper next to the Naval Academy and Saint Johns College, at 8 Maryland Avenue, that now houses 18 fire-damaged rental units - priced at $3,450,000. Twelve of these historic homes are over a million dollars, but the others are less, with several in the $400-500 thousands - about the cost of living in a nearby suburb. (Link takes you to all Annapolis homes for sale, not just the historic ones.)

If military relocation is bringing you to the U.S. Naval Academy or Annapolis Naval Station, be sure to visit the Annapolis Visitor's Bureau to learn about places to stay for your house-hunting trip. As they say, "you can sleep on a schooner, in an 18th-century historic inn, a charming bed and breakfast or a first-class hotel".

And visit the Maryland Office of Tourism to request a free travel kit including things to do, a map, and other information to make your visit enjoyable.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

20 Places to Buy Waterfront Homes in Anne Arundel County

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 07:01:46 -0700

This information is included in the Online Anne Arundel County Relocation Package for Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, the the U.S. Naval Academy

Looking for a Maryland waterfront home? Look no further than Anne Arundel County, with over 500 miles of shoreline along the many inlets, coves, bays and creeks that are tributaries to the Chesapeake Bay and several rivers. Many waterfront properties have Riparian Rights, and others are located in communities with a marina or community pier.

According to the Metropolitan Regional Information System, Inc. (MRIS), there are about 400 waterfront properties for sale in Anne Arundel County at this time (10/21/07) ranging from $195,000 for a two-bedroom rancher on Marley Creek in Glen Burnie to $16 million estate in Annapolis that features twelve bedrooms, ten full and two half baths, and a quarter-mile of waterfront on Whitehall Creek.

Following is a breakdown of places in Anne Arundel County where you can find a waterfront home:

Annapolis (137)
Arnold (30)
Churchton (9)
Crownsville (15)
Curtis Bay (13)
Deale (14)
Edgewater (30)
Galesville (1)
Gibson Island (5)
Glen Burie (18)
Harwood (2)
Lake Shore (4)
North Beach (5)
Orchard Beach (3)
Pasadena (68)
Riva (8)
Severna Park (24)
Shady Side (13)
Tracey's Landing (1)
West River (6)

There are many ways that I can refine the search besides city and price. For example, I can search according to body of water, water depth, and whether or not the property has a dock. It is possible, also, to search for properties that may not be waterfront, but perhaps have a waterview, or homes that are located in communities with water access.

While I don't pretend to be a "waterfront expert", I am a REAL ESTATE expert with over thirty years of experience in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. If you're interested in waterfront property and have a WATER or BOATING question I can't answer, I will get you the answer. Please let me know how I can help you.

Source: Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. (MRIS), 10/21/07

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Top 3 Reasons Why You Should Purchase Your Next Home in Crofton, Maryland

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:41:15 -0700

NOTE: This is an entry in the ActiveRain Buyer Challenge - While these buyers are fictional, the facts about Crofton, Maryland, would interest most people relocating to the area.

Dear Michelle and Tom:

Welcome to Maryland! Tom's new job at the National Security Agency sounds like an amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I'm sure that's a very competitive position and a great honor for you to be selected. Congratulations!

It is an honor for me, as well, to help with your relocation to Maryland. Let's get started right away by focusing on the top three reasons Crofton is a good match for you, based on the priorities Michelle mentioned in her email - location, community, and availability of affordable 4-bedroom, 2 bath homes with 1200-2400 sq. ft., within walking distance of elementary school for your two children.

1. CROFTON IS 30 MINUTES TO EVERYWHERE YOU WANT TO GO -

You know what they say about the most important things in real estate - Location, Location, and Location. When the traffic gods are smiling, Crofton is only about 30 minutes to NSA, Annapolis, Baltimore's I-695, D.C.'s I-495 and BWI Airport. As an Air Force retiree, Tom, you and your family will enjoy the resources of several nearby military bases within an hour of Crofton: The U.S. Naval Academy, Ft. Meade, Andrews AFB, National Naval Medical Center Bethesda, Walter Reed, and even the Pentagon. If you accept the job offer in D.C., Michelle, in addition to driving, you have the option of taking the MARC train from Odenton or METRO-Rail from New Carrollton.

Aside from commuting time, you'll appreciate Crofton's location for its convenience to the museums, monuments, professional sports teams, and arts venues in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Annapolis, not to mention sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. Michelle, I know you're wondering about shopping - Annapolis Mall is just 15 minutes away, but groceries and other everyday shopping needs will be met without leaving Crofton. Your kids will probably be glad to learn that the Atlantic Ocean is only about 2 hours east of Crofton - close enough for a day trip or weekend. You'll find links to many of these in my Crofton Area Resource Guide.

2. LIVING IN CROFTON IS A LOT LIKE LIVING IN A SMALL TOWN -

It's no surprise to anyone in Crofton to see our community listed in Money Magazine's 2007 Top 100 Best Places to Live. You'll soon see why!

American flags fly over Crofton Parkway, mounted on light posts above the many walkers, joggers, runners and bikers that travel its 3.5 mile route. Flowering cherry trees line some of the streets, creating a spectacular splash of spring color. Holiday wreathes magically appear on windows, doors and light posts at the Crofton Village Green (with a little help from the Crofton Village Garden Club).

Crofton residents enjoy many annual traditions such as Spring and Fall crafts fairs, free summer concerts on the Village Green, the Tour de Crofton bike race, Santa's arrival and Christmas tree lighting, and parades for Halloween, Armed Forces Day, and Opening Day for the youth baseball season... There are ongoing community activities for every age and interest including organized athletics, scouts, garden clubs, civic organizations, service groups... Recreation facilities include two golf courses, tennis courts, parks, playgrounds... There are several places of worship, small businesses, medical offices, shopping centers, restaurants and a recently-built library... No chance of getting bored, when you live in Crofton!

And yes, your children will probably walk to elementary school from their Crofton home! There is a middle school in Crofton, as well, but your children will have a short school bus ride due to the school being on a busy street. (Link to Anne Arundel County Public Schools)

CROFTON PHOTOS: Inside the Crofton Gates and Outside the Crofton Gates

3. YES, YOU CAN AFFORD A CROFTON HOME -

While home prices are higher in the D.C. area than Little Rock, where you are now, Crofton is lower than the Travis AFB area, your duty station prior to retiring from the Air Force. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at how low Anne Arundel County property taxes are, too - as much as $100 less per month than other nearby Maryland and Virginia counties for a home in your price range. This difference enables you to spend more for your Crofton home while still keeping your monthly payments affordable.

I think many of those sticker-shock stories about the D.C. area are based on Northern Virginia home prices. Crofton is a place where you can still find a detached home in the $400 thousands. Given the nature of today's buyer's market, Michelle and Tom, it is highly likely that many of them are negotiable.

Here are three Crofton homes that I plan to show you, assuming they're still available when you arrive.

BEST MATCH: 1736 Trent Street- $467,950. I think you will enjoy life in "Old Crofton", the heart of the community and its many activities, walking distance to Crofton Woods Elementary, Crofton Country Club, Crofton Swim and Tennis Club and Swann Park. This one-level home has everything you're looking for including 4 large bedrooms, 2 baths, a famiy room with fireplace, screened porch, updated baths and kitchen, and beautiful 11,482 sq. ft. treed corner lot.
BEST VALUE: 1424 Knights Bridge Turn- $449,000. No mortgage payments for the first three months on this awesome designer-decorated home, just reduced $12,000. This colonial style 2-story home features 4 bedroom, 2.5 baths, wood floors, upgrades everywhere, tile flooring in baths, family room with brick fireplace and slider to the patio, and a large 9,957 sq. foot treed level lot. Crofton Woods Elementary, Crofton Country Club, Crofton Swim and Tennis Club and Swann Park are just a bike ride away.
BEST PRICE: 1737 Linkwood Lane- $420,000. This split-foyer style 4-bedroom 2 bath home, situated on a 7,176 sq. ft. lot, features a beautiful 18x36 in-ground pool and Loi pond, but just one garage. There are lots of upgrades including recent HVAC, fireplace liner, and leafless gutters/downspouts. Other updates include ceramic tile throughout the lower level and updated kitchens/baths. Your children will walk to Crofton Meadows Elementary School and Crofton Library from this home.

Click on this link for a sneak preview of other homes for sale in Crofton, including photos, prices and brief descriptions.

CROFTON PHOTOS: Homes (An online tour of the neighborhood, but these homes are not for sale)

I look forward to introducing the Snyder family to some of your future neighbors when you visit next month. In the meantime, be sure to check out Focus on Crofton, for my blogs about Crofton News, Events, Businesses, People and Real Estate.

A list of other real estate professionals who may have a role in your home purchase is attached, in case you want to contact them before you arrive for house hunting. See you soon - I'm eager to meet you and get started!

Sincerely,

Margaret Woda
Associate Broker, Long & Foster

P.S. I almost forgot to mention the "BRAC Factor" -

Thanks to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Report, 22,000 new jobs are expected in the next five years at Ft. Meade. This is great news for your Crofton home's future property value, since there will be huge demand for a limited supply of nearby homes!

Relocating to the Baltimore-Washington area? Check out Your Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

______________________________________________

ATTACHMENT -

Since you're new to the area, I'm providing you some local contacts who have served my clients well in the past - mortgage lenders, real estate and title attorneys, insurance agents and home inspectors. Maryland law is very clear that the choice cannot be dictated by me or any home seller, including builders. Therefore, this list is provided as a service for your convenience, and is not intended as a referral to or recommendation of these companies or individuals.

Mortgage Lenders:

Real Estate and Title Attorneys:

Insurance:

Home Inspectors:

WINNERS IN THE ACTIVE RAIN BUYER'S CHALLENGE:

Top 3 Reasons Why You Should Purchase Your Next Home in Crofton, Maryland

Why You Should Purchase Your Next Home in Arlington, Virginia

Why You Should Purchase Your Next Home In Elk Grove, CA...

Why You Should Buy A home In Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Why you should purchase your next home in Hampstead New Hampshire

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Public Gardens Outside the Naval Academy Gates

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 11:49:09 -0700

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy

Daffodils are popping up inside the Naval Academy gates, buds are appearing on the dogwood and cherry trees, and azaleas will soon be in bloom. If you've never toured the U.S. Naval Academy grounds in Annapolis, Maryland, there's no more beautiful time of year to do so.

While you're in Annapolis, you might want to visit some of the Historic Homes Outside the Naval Academy Gates and these magnificent public gardens in and near Annapolis:

Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden
580 Taylor Ave., Tawes State Office Building, Annapolis, MD

www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/tawesgarden.html

This award-winning five-acre garden represents geographic features from across the state, including everything from forested Western Maryland mountains to sandy Eastern Shore beaches. It was created by and is named for the wife of a former governor, and its located on the property of the state office building that houses Maryland's Department of Natural Resources.

London Town House and Gardens
839, Londontown Road, Edgewater, MD 21037

http://www.historiclondontown.com/

Built in 1760, this one-time tavern and inn overlooks the South River. Now it is a museum sounded by eight acres of woodland gardens. The house itself is a National Historic Landmark and appears on the National Register of Historic Places.

William Paca House and Garden
186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD 21108

http://www.annapolis.org/

William Paca, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and former Maryland Governor, built this Georgian mansion between 1763 and 1765. The two-acre pleasure garden features a Chinese trellis bridge, domed pavilion and fish-shaped pond. This site is in a National Historic District and on the National Register of Historic Places..

Hanging baskets, such as this one next to the Annapolis Harbour, decorate many streets in Annapolis during the late Spring and throughout the summer.

For more information about Public Gardens in Maryland, visit the Maryland Office of Tourism website.

For help with your own garden, the go-to place in Anne Arundel County is Homestead Gardens. Another favorite of mine is Behnke's in Beltsville in nearby Prince George's County and just a half hour of Crofton. Check out the Behnke's Blog.

Here's a complete list of all Anne Arundel County Nurseries, Licensed Plant Dealers and Plant Brokers for you.

This post is included in the Andrews Air Force Base Relocation Package.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Family is In the Car, and We Are Ready to Go!

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 18:31:23 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

In the unlikely event you run out of things to do in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Annapolis, and even your own neighborhood in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, the possibilities for day trips and weekend getaways are many, when you live in this area. Boredom is simply NOT an option for anyone relocating to work at Fort Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, the U.S. Naval Academy or anywhere else in this area.

I could rarely get away for an extended time during the busy summer months when my children were small, so I often loaded them into the car and took off to the ocean, the mountains, an amusement park, or historic city not far from home, when I had a free day or two.

OUR #1 DESTINATION - OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

It is precisely 2 hours east from my driveway in Crofton to a parking space within a block of the Atlantic Ocean around 57th street in Ocean City. Many of the hotels have public rest rooms that can be accessed from the beach, and there are plenty of eateries along the boardwalk. Sometimes, we arrived at the beach by 10 a.m. and were ready to head back by 4 p.m. to be home when my husband got there after work - and other days we stayed to enjoy the boardwalk at night, walking or taking the bus from the area we usually park down beyond 1st Street to the rides and games.

Of course, most of the day was spent enjoying the surf, sand, and people-watching; building sand castles, walking along the beach, or playing frisbee. My children were never too young or too old to enjoy one of these day trips to the ocean.

I'm looking forward to an opportunity to do this again with the grandkids, but Larry and I still enjoy our relative proximity to the ocean, even as empty-nesters! Just last month, that's where I headed with "the girls" for a weekend stay at an Oceanfront hotel to work on scrapbooks. And there's no shortage of events scheduled throughout the year: Coming up in March, for example, are the OC Hot Rod & Custom Car Show the Home, Condo & Garden Show, and the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival. Larry and I have even been known to drive to Ocean City and back, just for dinner.

By the way, Ocean City is a great vacation destination for the whole family, too - no reason to limit your visits here to day trips, if you can afford the time and pricetag to rent a condo or stay at a hotel for a week or more. Some local folks even buy a second home at the beach, so they can get away year-round.

P.S. - There's a Prime Outlet located between Anne Arundel County and Ocean City. You may want to allow time for a stop there, on your way home.

AMUSEMENT PARKS - THE KIDS' FAVORITE DAY TRIPS

PARAMOUNT KINGS DOMINION, "Virginia's premier themed amusement park", is exactly two hours south of Crofton, near Richmond. That's another favorite of ours, even though Six Flags is located about a half hour from Crofton. I guess Six Flags is just too close to home to feel like an adventure.

Paramount Kings Dominion offers family rides like a carousel, thrill rides including a fabulous collection of roller coasters, and kids rides for toddlers. This year, their 14th roller coaster will open - DOMINATOR, a 4,210 coaster that will be the longest floorless coaster in the world, and have the largest roller coaster loop. Yikes!

Live shows are offered several times a day - from a 60's song and dance extravaganza to Dora the Explorer(TM) Sing-along Adventure, Backyard Circus, and Hot Island Rhythms. Guest artists appear, too, but Kings Dominion has not yet announced their 2008 appearance calendar.

You can Download a High Resolution Park Map to see for yourself what's available for you to enjoy at Kings Dominion.

HERSHEY PARK, a little over 2 hours from Crofton, is another major amusement park you'll want to check out, when you're living in Anne Arundel County. They, too, will have a new roller coaster this year, the FAHRENHEIT. Roller Coaster lovers will have to try out both (the FAHRENHEIT and Kings Dominion's DOMINATOR) and let me know what you think.

Hershey Park has other rides, too - kiddie rides, family rides, and the Boardwalk, with water rides. Hershey, Pennsylvania has other things to offer, as well, including a free tour of the Hershey Chocolate Factory, ZooAmerica, the Hershey Museum with its exhibits about the origins of chocolate and the candy empire founded by Milton S. Hershey, Hershey Trolley Rides, Hershey Theater and even Hershey Park Golf.

There are strolling bands in the park, Hershey's Characters, and big-name entertainment, too. One factor could sway us toward Hershey Park over Kings Dominion, and that is the weather - 2 hours south at Kings Dominion is probably warmer than home in Anne Arundel County, whereas 2 hours north at Hershey Park is probably cooler on a warm day than it is at home.

Whatever your choice, you'll have a great time - I can almost guarantee it. And there's enough to do in this area, that you could easily choose to make this a weekender instead of a day trip. (You can download a Printer Friendly Map, if you'd like to see an overview of Hershey Park.)

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA -

Even though Colonial Williamsburg is just three hours from Crofton, it always feels like that is pushing the limit for a day trip. For that reason, our visits to "The World's Largest Living History Museum" usually involve an overnight stay. Besides, there is so much to see and do that it's hard to fit in everything - especially if you plan to include a stop at the nearby Williamsburg Pottery Factory. (That's not something the kids will enjoy, but any shoppers or decorators in the family certainly will!)

You will enjoy walking around Colonial Williamsburg's 300-acre Historic Area at your own pace, exploring the hundreds of restored, reconstructed and historically-furnished buildings. Your imagination will be helped along by costumed hosts and hostesses, as well as re-enactors of colonial craftsmen at work, military parades, and even servers at the restaurants.

Of course, none of the buildings are air-conditioned, so I wouldn't make this trip in the midst of a heat-wave. But it's a great spring or fall outing, if your kids are old enough to appreciate these wonderful history lessons - especially if you've never lived on the East Coast, and your family may be a little rusty on this era of our nation's history.

This is a MUST-DO trip, when you're living in this part of the country, even if you only do it one time.

The Wiliamsburg Pottery Factory is a side-trip that has nothing to do with Historic Williamsburg, but it is something I always enjoyed (since I was in the neighborhood). One idea that worked for me is to bribe your kids to behave while there, by offering a day or a few hours at nearby Busch Gardens.

Relocating to Anne Arundel County will expose you to opportunities you can't imagine. From the Ocean to the mountains, from the farmland to the cities and suburbia, Maryland truly is "America in Miniature". Yet there is no one holding a club over your head saying "You gotta do this" - You may choose to focus on activities closer to home. And that's fine. I just want you to know what's here waiting for you, when you relocate to Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

RELATED LINK:

Around the Maryland Beltway - Places to visit, closer to home.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

A "Tale of Two Cites" Near Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 10:07:23 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

What does Charles Dickens' classic tale about the French Revolution, England and spying have to do with working at Northrop Grumman, USNA, Fort Meade, BWI or anywhere else in Anne Arundel County, Maryland? Well, absolutely nothing - except the title of the book is so perfect for anyone living near the two great cities of Baltimore and Washington - I just had to borrow it!

The ambiance, history, and things to do in a city like either of these are enough to fill years of weekends with places to visit and things to do. So how do you decide? Focus on Baltimore first and then Washington next year? Do something in Washington one weekend and Baltimore the next?

IN WASHINGTON, D.C. you will probably never run out of national monuments and museums to visit. I was born there, and lived most of my life within an hour of D.C. - Yet I can't keep up with the constantly changing exhibits and activities that are available to residents and tourists alike!

You can easily participate, in your own way, as history comes to life every day in the Nation's Capitol - During December, for example, you and your family might become Santa's Helpers, Laying wreathes at Arlington Cemetery; this Spring, you could be there for the first ever opening day of baseball at the new Washington Nationals' Park on the Anacostia River, with a view of the Capitol, where our nation's laws are created, debated and passed (or not); or you may be in the crowd at that same stadium on April,15, when Pope Benedict XVI visits the United States for the first time.

This summer, perhaps we will cross paths at the weekly parades at the Marine Barracks, D.C., or at the National Fireworks display, with the Washington Monument in the background in real life, instead of on T.V. Next January, you can hop on board the MetroRail with neighbors to head downtown for the Inaugural Parade of the next President of the United States.

Whereas other people travel hundreds or thousands of miles to the annual Cherry Blossom Festival to see the blooming cherry blossoms surrounding the Tidal Basin, you'll drive right past them en route to visit friends in D.C. or Northern Virginia; or you could be seated next to someone familiar-looking at a diner, during breakfast, only to realize it's someone you saw on T.V. last week - maybe a Congressman, Senator, or the interviewer himself. ('Truth is, you could find yourself in a fender-bender with one of them on your way to a business meeting at the Pentagon!)

You may attend Sunday Mass with your family at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception alongside locals, Catholic University students, and tourists alike; and your children will probably have field trips to visit the various Smithsonian Museums or special exhibits at the National Geographic Museum, such as the current Frogs, a Chorus of Color, The Holocaust Museum is a must-see exhibit, and it's possible you will find a family member or friend's name engraved on the wall at the Vietnam Memorial.

World-renowned entertainment is available in D.C., as well - including the New York City Ballet on February 27, Dolly Parton on April 28, Van Halen on March 9, Kenny Chesney and LeeAnn Rhimes on May 9, and Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus March 27-30. I'm guessing there are probably about ten or more events to choose from each week.

I can't begin to even touch on the many thing to do and see in Washington, D.C., but let me promise you that living in Anne Arundel County guarantees you easy access to it all , at your own pace and convenience.

(Note: I love this photo, used on my website with authorization of photographer Mike Lynaugh, taken after 9/11 when the Washington Monument was dark for security reasons. In most photos of July 4 fireworks in D.C., you'll see the monument lighted.)

BALTIMORE, known as Charm City, is less than an hour from D.C., but worlds away when it comes to personality. Chances are, Baltimore will be a pleasant surprise for you, with its own long list of things to do and see!

Of course, there are the Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles to attract you downtown, and your children's school singing group might just be performing the National Anthem before a game, as mine did.

During your first visit to the Inner Harbor, it would be fun to explore the city from a "duck's eye view", traveling on land and water in one vehicle to see the city by land and sea (you actually splash into the famous Inner Harbor!). Ride the Ducks is a fun tour that gives you an opportunity to scope out all there is to do and see here, including The National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center.

At the Aquarium,"Weird Wonders" and "Chills & Thrills" are just two of the aquariums you'll visit, and you'll want to see one of the fifteen 90-minute shows in the Pier 3 Pavillion, as well as visit the 4-D Immersion Theater. At the Maryland Science Center,you will experience a "please touch" environment and real time connections to real time science at exhibits on Dinosaurs. Planet Earth. The Human body. Outer space. Chesapeake Bay life. and Science that Sir Isaac Newton never imagined. There are live demonstrations all day every day, and an IMAX theater. As local residents, these are places you can visit again and again with your family.

There are dozens of shops to explore and restaurants to try at the Baltimore Inner Harbour, and you can take a break for a ride on the Carousel, located between Rash Field and the Maryland Science Center.

You will experience a sense of history in Baltimore, too, with a visit to Fort McHenry (think Star Spangled Banner), Port Discovery, the National Museum of Dentistry, the Civil War Museum, and America's first museum to celebrate Black History in life-size wax figures. And remember that Baltimore's Pimlico Race Track is home of the Preakness, the 2nd leg of the Triple Crown in horse racing, complete with a parade in downtown Baltimore.

Lots of entertainers visit Baltimore, too - often the same that you'll see in D.C., such as the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus next month, but not always. In the next few weeks, you can hear Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood on February 29 or see The Color Purple on May 1; you can watch the Monster Jam on March 3, WWE Backlash on April 27, or High School Musical tonight, at the Hippodrome Theater.

Again, so many more things to do and see that I can't begin to list them all - and again, you will enjoy an amazing experience, living so close to it all in Anne Arundel County, MD.

(Note: Photo taken by my daughter Susan at the Preakness Parade when our friend, Kelly George, was Miss Preakness 2004.)

When you found out you'll be relocating to this area, I'm sure your first thoughts were "Where will we live?" or "How do I tell the kids?", just like anyone faced with relocation. As you learn about all there is to do and see in this area, I hope you're starting to get excited about making your home in Anne Arundel County. Even after living in this area most of my life, I'm still discovering (and re-discovering) all that life has to offer in Maryland. I consider myself so privileged to grow up here, as your children will have the opportunity to do.

Again, Welcome to Anne Arundel County - neighbor to two of the greatest cities in the world, Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

STOP, You Need a License to do That in Maryland

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 13:42:44 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

When you relocate to Maryland, you'll find water, water, water everywhere!

In fact, there are 4,360 miles of tidal shoreline within the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. 2,633 square miles of Maryland are covered by water (of 12,407 total square miles in Maryland). But you can't just grab a fishing pole and head for the shoreline! A license is required to go fishing in Maryland, with only a few exceptions.

1. License Free Fishing Areas - There are License Free Fishing Areas located throughout the tidal portions of the Chesapeake Bay, but you must comply with State fishing laws and regulations.

2. Free Fishing Day - The first two Saturdays in June and July 4. During a free fishing day, you may catch and possess fish in the tidal and non-tidal waters of Maryland for recreational purposes without a license or fishing stamp normally required by the State, but you must follow all fishing laws and regulations.

No fishing license is required for anglers under 16 years of age. residents and non-residents who are blind, and disabled American veterans or former prisoners of war.

But most folks can't just go fishing, crabbing or boating in Maryland waters without a license. More information, including fees and exceptions, is available from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, but here is a summary of licenses you might need, before you can enjoy Maryland waters for anything more than the view:

NON-TIDAL FRESH WATER FISHING LICENSES:

Annual Non-Tidal License - Allows licensee to fish in the fresh waters of Maryland from January 1 through December 31.

3-day Non-tidal License (available to nonresidents only) - Allows licensee to fish the fresh waters of Maryland for 3 consecutive fishing days
5-day Non-tidal License - Allows licensee to fish the fresh waters of Maryland for 5 consecutive fishing days.
Trout Stamp - Allows anyone 16 years of age or older to fish in any special catch and return trout management area and to possess trout taken from non-tidal waters of Maryland. (This stamp is not required if you hold a Resident Senior Consolidated License.)

TIDAL / BAY SPORT FISHING LICENSES:

Annual License - Allows licensee to fish in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from January 1 through December 31.
5-Day Bay Sport License - Allows licensee to fish in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries for 5 consecutive days.
Consolidated Bay Sport Boat License- Allows everyone on board a vessel used for recreational fishing in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries in lieu of individual licenses. A special complimentary Chesapeake Bay sport fishing license, which includes recreational crabbing, will be issued to the boat owner purchasing this license.
Bay Sport Charter Boat License - Allows individuals on board chartered vessels operated by MD licensed fishing guides to fish in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries in lieu of individual licenses. These licenses are issued only to holders of Maryland Commercial Fishing Guide Licenses.

RESIDENT SENIOR CONSOLIDATED LICENSE:

Maryland residents over 65 - Allows a Maryland resident to fish in the fresh waters of Maryland (including trout) and in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from January 1 through December 31. No trout stamp is required.

CRABBING LICENSES:

Crab season: April 1 to December 15

A recreational crabber may crab without a license 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week from docks, piers, bridges, boats and shorelines using dip nets and any number of handlines. A property owner may set a maximum of 2 crab pots per privately owned pier at their property.

Recreational Crabbing License- Required of persons catching crabs for recreational purposes in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries using (a) trotline not to exceed 1,200 feet in length (baited portion), (b) 11 to 30 collapsible traps or rings, or (c) up to 10 eel pots for catching the individual's own bait.

Recreational Crabbing Boat License - Allows everyone on board a vessel to catch crabs for recreational purposes anywhere in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, and is in lieu of individual licenses.

By the way, EATING crabs is a favorite pastime in Maryland, too, and it does not require a license. A little guidance the first time, and perhaps some practice... There's nothing like the Maryland Blue Crab. That's why they say "Maryland is for Crabs".

BOATING LICENSE:

Your boat must be registered in Maryland if it is equipped with any kind of primary or auxiliary mechanical propulsion and used primarily in Maryland during a calendar year.

To learn more details about the requirements you must satisfy to use your boat in Maryland waters, even if you purchased and registered it in another jurisdiction, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Boating Registration website.

I probably take all this water for granted, as a native of the area. But I know it is one of the special things about Maryland that people from other areas of the country really appreciate.

Anne Arundel County is literally on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, and many communities are located on the Bay or its tributaries. We are just about 2 hours to the Atlantic Ocean - close enough for your family vacation or even a day trip.

In fact, just last month I spent a weekend "with the girls" in Ocean City, where I enjoyed the off-season rates for an ocean front room. On my way home to Crofton, I stopped for a quick visit with my brother at a house he purchased to rent out during the beach season and enjoy as a getaway for off-season weekends. If you've never lived on the East Coast, visiting the Ocean should be on your short list of things to do - and investing in vacation property is something you might consider.

Fishing, crabbing, boating and water-oriented recreation are very much a part of living in Maryland.

Want to live on or near the water? There are many communities right here in Anne Arundel County, a half hour or less from Ft. Meade, Northrop Grumman, BWI and the U.S. Naval Academy. While waterfront homes can be fairly pricey, a home across the street or a block away will be much more affordable and probably have access to the community's private beach, marina, fishing pier or boat ramp. If that interests you, be sure to click on advanced search when you use the Fnd a Home feature on my website. Then follow the instructions to receive automatic updates any time a water-access or waterfront home comes on the market that matches your search criteria.

To go fishing is the chance to wash one's soul with pure air, with the rush of the brook, or with the shimmer of sun on blue water. It brings meekness and inspiration from the decency of nature, charity toward tackle-makers, patience toward fish, a mockery of profits and egos, a quieting of hate, a rejoicing that you do not have to decide a darned thing until next week. And it is discipline in the equality of men - for all men are equal before fish. Herbert Hoover

HELPFUL LINKS:

Atlas of MD Boat Ramps
Fish at these State Parks
Freshwater Fishing Hotspots
License-Free Fishing Areas/Places to Fish From Shore
Index of Maps - including dividing lines for regulations and access information.
Maryland Fishing Rules
Subscribe to the Maryland Natural Resources Magazine

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Around the Maryland Beltway

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 13:10:13 -0700

Your real estate connection for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, Northrop Grumman, BWI and the U.S. Naval Academy

Maryland Real Estate is not the only thing that REALTORS in the D.C. Metropolitan area have to offer relocating buyers - we are privileged to live and work in an area that celebrates culture, history, and recreation, enriching life every day for local residents. When someone buys a home around here, they get the whole package! Take a look at some of the sites around the Maryland side of I-495, the D.C. Beltway:

Start by visiting Fort Washington Park, which was built over 180 years ago on the banks of the Potomac River to defend the nation's capital. From there, you will admire views of both George Washington's home in Virginia - Mount Vernon - and Washington, D.C.

Andrews Air Force Base, probably best known to civilians for being home to Air Force One, the President's official airplane, is headquarters for the USAF 316th Wing, which maintains emergency reaction rotary-wing airlift and other National Capital Region contingency response capabilities critical to national security.

As you travel around the Beltway towards Montgomery County, you can exit on Rt. 50 E towards Annapolis for a tour of the United States Naval Academy or many historic sites in Annapolis - that could be a separate day trip, in itself.

Or continue on the Beltway to Baltimore Washington Parkway, I-295, which will take you to the NASA/Goddard Visitor Center and Museum, where you can get a first-hand look at the miracles of space flight and then come right down to earth with model-rocket launches.

Not far from there is the College Park Airport, established in 1909 by Wilbur and Orville Wright. Yes, THE Wright brothers! Stop by the College Park Aviation Museum, where an animatronic Wilbur Wright greets you at the world's oldest continually operating airport. A 1911 Wright B is one of several historic planes on display, and you can break for lunch while watching planes land amid all this history.

Just a few blocks away is the University of Maryland College Park campus, chartered in 1856 as an Agricultural College, and now one of the world's eminent research universities. You will be impressed by Comcast Center, home of Terps Basketball, the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, which hosts the annual William Kappel International Piano Competiton and the beautiful rolling expanses of open space on campus.

Heading North towards the Beltway along Rt 1, if you keep going a short way, you may find yourself watching for birds at the National Wildlife Visitor Center and Patuxent Research Refuge. A tram tour offers a scenic introduction to 13,000 acres of forest, wetlands and meadow environments that make up the only national wildlife refuge created to study man's impact on nature.

Never been to the horse races? Now is your chance, since you're close to Laurel Park. Then back to the Beltway and on to...

The Clara Barton National Historic Site, the first headquarters of the Red Cross relief organization. Just a ring toss away is Glen Echo Park, a turn-of-the-century amusement park that's been restored and features a marvelous 1921 Dentzel Carousel.

The Potomac River turns rapid around Great Falls, a series of rocky cliffs and outcroppings that now lie within the boundaries of the C&O Historical Park. Stroll along the tree-lined canal and take a mule-drawn barge ride. A more recent - but just as romantic - method of transportation is on display at the nearby National Capital Trolley Museum, featuring historic trolley cars from America and Europe. Climb aboard one of the working cars and take a quick spin!

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Why Get a Home Inspection When You Relocate to Maryland

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 19:18:29 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

PEACE OF MIND - the #1 Reason for you to get a home inspection!

Whether you'r relocating to Anne Arundel County from another part of the country, or just moving across the street, a home inspection is always a good idea for any homebuyer. However, when you move to a new area, where you're unfamiliar with local home improvement stores and contractors, it's more important than ever.

While a home inspection is no guarantee that "nothing" will go wrong, it does help you anticipate LIKELY problems so you can negotiate with the seller to have them repaired before your settlement.

Joseph Lang, a home inspector in Cucumonga, California, frequently posts articles here on ActiveRain about situations he encounters during home inspections. Here are just a few of his real-life inspection experiences - probably more convincing than any list of reasons I could create about "Why get a home inspection?"

Generally speaking, a home inspection is a visual evaluation of the property to identify problems in areas that can be accessed. In other words, home inspectors do not have xray vision, so they can't see behind the wallboard; they don't pull up carpet, move furniture or take apart appliances to make sure every part is in like-new condition. And they don't report on cosmetic flaws, such as peeling wallpaper or dirty fingerprints on the walls.

They DO go through every accessible inch of the property, including the attic and crawl space, looking for evidence of anything from leaks to insects infestation to structural problems. They DO test the electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems, using standard procedures. Depending on the type of inspection you order, they may also test well water and septic systems, radon and lead-based paint hazards. When they identify any discrepancy, they note it so that you can decide whether to accept the defect "as-is" or negotiate with the seller regarding an item's repair or replacement.

For your peace of mind, get a home inspection to minimize your concerns about unexpected defects and repairs in the home you're buying!

In Maryland, home inspectors must be licensed, and I always recommend that my clients choose an experienced home inspector who belongs to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).

Photos: Istockphoto

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Last Minute Moving Checklist for Your Relocation to Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 20:18:44 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Did I tell you about the time when movers packed wet coffee grounds from my sink?

Or another time when my un-emptied kitchen trash can got packed? (Week-old banana peels are not a pleasant surprise when you're unpacking.) When we relocated back to Maryland from Charleston, South Carolina, my boys' friends came over for a last good-bye - only to find their bikes loaded on the van when they went outside.

Then there was a client of mine who hid her purse, cell phone and keys out of sight, in the oven, and when she went to get them after the movers were on the road... Yep, they (and the broiler pan) were apparently on the road, too.

Everyone has moving stories, so brace yourself. There's no question IF you will - the only question is what your moving story will be.

First, before I give you another copy of my to-do list, here are the utility companies you should contact this week, to make sure everything is turned on for you after closing on your new home in Maryland:

UTILITIES:

Water and Sewer - Anne Arundel County, 410-220-7000

Gas & Electric - BGE, 800-685-0123

Cable TV and Internet - Comcast, 310-731-4260

Phone and Internet Service - Verizon.
(Note: FIOS Service is available in Crofton)

For a complete list of Anne Arundel County Services, here is a link to MyAnneArundel.com

CHECKLIST:

To make sure your story is NOT one about your purse, cell phone and car keys getting buried in a packing box, let's put those at the top of this to-do list for BEFORE the movers come! Besides, that story is already in my collection - and I'd like to have some new ones for the book I plan to write someday.

I recommend moving the following items to your car, your office, or your neighbor's house before the movers come, because no place inside your house is safe!

Here's my Top-20 checklist, but you can add anything else to it you think of:

1.   Keys and Purse.

2.  Medical records for each member of the family.

3. School records for each of your children.

4.   Veterinarian records for each of your pets.

5. The garage door opener, broiler pan, instruction manuals and anything else included in the sale of your home - after your movers leave, you can bring those back into the house to leave for your buyers.

6. Cleaning supplies for preparing your home for the buyer's walk-through. You'll probably want to dust, sweep, wash floors or even touch up the paint, so put those supplies out of the house, too, and bring them back after the movers are gone.

7. Suitcase containing necessities for your trip, if this is a long-distance move.

...and all the documentation previously provided to your new lender:

8. Social Security number and birth date of each applicant.

9. Income verification for each applicant (2 most recent pay stubs with year-to-date earnings). If you are active-duty military, this includes basic pay and all allowances.

10. Tax information for each applicant (W-2's and tax returns for 2 most recent years).

11. Employment verification for each applicant (Employers names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses).

12. Bank account information for each applicant (2 most recent statements for all bank accounts).

13. Assetsfor each applicant (2 most recent statements for IRA's, 409K's, CD's, Stocks and Bonds; if you have individual investments, bring a brokerage statement with name of the stock, number of shares and the amount per share).

14. Personal property information for each applicant (cars, furniture, retirement accounts, jewelry, valuable collections and life insurance).

15. Credit information for each applicant (2 most recent statements for all creditors).

16. Current housing information for each applicant (If you own: address, market value, original loan amount, balance due, monthly payment amount, copy of listing if property is currently for sale; if you rent: copy of lease).

17. New home information (Receipt for earnest money deposit, copy of purchase contract and listing information).

18. Gift letter, if applicable (Letter from donor stating amount of gift and that money does not have to be repaid).

19. Self-employment information for each applicant (2 most recent years profit and loss statements and balance sheets), if applicable.

20. Divorce/separation information for each applicant (Copy of the divorce decree or maintenance statement and any amendments, 12-month history of child support and/or alimony payments), if applicable.

21. In-school/student verification (If you don't have 2 years of employment history, you will need transcript and/or diploma to verify student status) for each applicant, if applicable.

22. Rental propertyinformation for each applicant (For all rental property, you must provide addresses, copies of leases, account numbers, mortgage lenders' names, addresses, and phone numbers), if appicable.

While your loan has been finalized and the title search for your home is in, it's always a good idea to have your loan application paperwork handy - occasionally, I've had clients who needed something from the package at the last minute. There are no unresolved issues that I know about at this time. Should anything come up before you arrive, I'll give you a call and keep you informed.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, plese don't hesitate to contact me. Assuring that your relocation goes smoothlessly over the next week is my #1 priority!

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500

Would You Hire This Agent?

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 22:31:15 -0800

Included in Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County, Maryland - Home of Fort George G. Meade, NSA, Northrop Grumman, BWI, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

If you're relocating to Maryland, you probably want an agent who...

___ Gives you undivided attention
___  Understands and respects your needs
___ Knows the market
___  Works hard to find your dream home
___  Gives you breathing room
___  Is a real pro at the negotiating table
___  Has great connections
___ Will provide all services at no cost

I would suggest your criteria for choosing an agent (and how to evaluate them) should be...

___ Real estate expertise - professional designations (GRI, CRS, CRB, e-Pro, SRES, ABR), and even the content of their blogs
___ Professional success - successful closings and testimonials
___ Local knowledge - local resident, familiar with neighborhoods, schools, recreation, shopping, commuting routes
___ Community involvement, because this builds a valuable network of buyers and sellers
___ Industry leadership - participation in professional organizations and serving on REALTOR committees
___ Integrity - In a word, reputation - for honesty and ethical standards of practice
___ Technical capability - websites, email, cell phone, text messaging and blogging
___ Proven systems - a business plan, marketing plan, checklists, professional partners

Experience is not an absolute, since there are hard-working knowledgeable real estate novices who are surrounded by managers and mentors with experience. In most cases, however, experience in a previous buyers' market will give a seller or buyer a competitive edge.

If you're like most people, the bottom line really is this: No matter how well qualified an agent may be, it won't matter unless you KNOW, LIKE, and TRUST them. And yes, the criteria on these lists contribute to your making that call.

When you're ready to move from "just browsing" to "seriously looking", let me know if you don't yet have an agent. I will help you identify an agent in your area and your destination location, anywhere in the country - and I will do that "for free".

AND, there is NO direct cost to you for my services. Ask me to explain.

Choosing a Crofton Agent Is Easier in '08

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Direct: (301)346-2923 or click on EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)
FREE online relocation information
Check my reviews on Zillow

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., 2191 Defense Hwy., Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-1500