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Carlyn Lowery - eXp Realty - Annapolis, MD Real Estate

Happy Thanksgiving and Anne Arundel County Real Estate Market Update

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What are you grateful for today? 

Some days, I am grateful just to be making it through – this has been a tough year in a lot of ways. 

I’m thankful that I have been able to continue business, that the real estate market is strong, and that people like you choose to do business with me!   

I’m also thankful that my real estate brokerage, eXp Realty, was already doing almost everything on line, using the latest technology, and was quick to adapt. As our CEO says, “We were made for this!” The company has been doing very well, sharing our virtual office technology with others, and bringing on more agents in big numbers. We now are in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa, with more than 38,000 agents. And just opened in India. 

I’m thankful that it’s been possible to continue to help people move, to help them navigate this unusual market, and to put my skills, knowledge, and network to use for them. We’ve done a lot more virtual tours (both live and recorded), drone aerial video, video conversations, electronic signatures, and more. With our tools and systems, we help people do business efficiently, safely, and profitably! 

People are in such different places, from hunkering down where they are, to repositioning their lives and finances based on how things have shifted. Some are really struggling, and others are having a good year (and sometimes feeling guilty about that!) And almost everyone has spent enough extra time at home to be wondering if there might be a better place to live.  

A recent article titled “The Great Relocation: Americans Are Relocating By The Millions Because They Can Feel What Is Coming” on the Economic Collapse Blog started with:

This is a really odd time to be having a “housing boom”.  We are in the middle of the worst public health crisis in 100 years, endless civil unrest has been ravaging many of our largest cities, and we are experiencing the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression of the 1930s.  But even though more than 70 million Americans have filed new claims for unemployment benefits this year, home sales are absolutely rocking.  How in the world is this possible? 

The National Association of Realtors just wrote in the Weekly Housing Monitor on November 19th:
October existing home sales hit 6.85 million. the second all-time high level (tied with Feb 2006) since this series started in Jan 1999. The all-time high is 7.26 million in September 2005. Sales rose 4.3% from September’s level and up 26.6% year-over-year. 

Some local statistics are shown on images below. 

If you have questions about this market, or are wondering whether it is a good time to make your move, or are just trying to make sense out of what is going on, let’s talk. 

In other news, every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Rotary Club of Annapolis supports the Salvation Army by ringing the bell at a booth at the foot of Main Street. This year, we have also created a virtual kettle, because people are not going out as much, and the need is great. 

In Annapolis so far this year, the Salvation Army has served 878 families, distributed 4,302 food boxes, spent $110,000 on food for distribution, distributed 680 Care Kits, and spent over $200,000 to help local households with rental and utility assistance.

Here’s a link for info on our virtual kettle, and if you would like to contribute, please do so here: 

Rotary Club of Annapolis Salvation Army Kettle 

Feel free to spread the word however you like to communicate, like on Facebook, email, web, Twitter, or by text! 

Wishing you a fabulous Thanksgiving and holiday season! 

I appreciate you!

What Does It Cost to Be a Real Estate Agent in Maryland?

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Do you wonder what it costs to be a real estate agent?

For the state of Maryland, startup costs are outlined here: Best Real Estate Licensing Courses in Maryland and Beyond.

Once you have gotten your license, it’s time to join a real estate brokerage. Each brokerage has its own fee structure.

Essential service providers also have fees.

To be a member of brightMLS, where you can access and share listings of homes for sale, currently costs $105 per quarter.

To be a subscriber to the Sentrilock service, which you use to access lockboxes when you show homes, currently costs $169 per year.

Realtor association dues, for the Anne Arundel County Association of Realtors, Maryland Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors, are currently $665 per year.

And renewing your Maryland real estate license every two years costs $70. Continuing education classes are also required, and the cost depends upon where you take them. More details are on the Maryland Department of Labor (DLLR) web site.

If you are wondering what is the best real estate brokerage, let’s talk and find out if eXp Realty is a fit for you!  You can find out more about eXp Realty here.

We have agents across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia, and can assist you with getting your real estate license and starting your real estate career anywhere.

P.S. Considering a move? Please call for a confidential chat. Your personal needs, wants, and finances are my priority and my passion and my specialties run from waterfront luxury estates to distressed properties.

Call me today for your Annapolis real estate needs, or for an introduction to a great real estate agent anywhere.

Carlyn Lowery, Associate Broker, eXp Realty, Annapolis Real Estate, Annapolis Waterfront Homes, Annapolis Luxury Homes, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, 443-569-3977 or 888-860-7369 x146

Local web sites in and around Annapolis, Maryland

Maryland Real Estate Market and the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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We live in interesting times.

My company, eXp Realty, and I are closely monitoring the changing landscape, and we remain committed to providing you with the services you need. 

As far as sales go, we are adapting quickly, as circumstances change related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). We are updating service offerings and cooperating with our industry colleagues to give you ways to:

  • Sell your property without public showings, or with limited numbers of people coming through your property
  • Buy property by remote control, without physical visits, or with minimal physical visits
  • Use virtual showings – 3D, aerial, and video options, both pre-recorded and live with an agent at the property
  • Do contracts, loan applications, and closings remotely

Your health and safety, and that of all of our staff, customers, and clients is of utmost importance.  We’re all working through this together.  Here’s a helpful article: COVID-19 Beginning To Affect Real Estate, But It’s Not All Bad News

Since eXp Realty is a virtual company, our corporate operations are almost unchanged. Our company was designed to make maximum use of technology.  Teleworking has been our practice since the company was founded, and we work together with tools like our virtual campus with on-line training and offices, and our private social media platform. We are uniquely positioned in the industry to adapt to the current environment.

Are you coordinating with a team that has been working together in an office and is suddenly doing teleworking? If so, you’ll find this video useful, How to Work with Your Team Remotely.  It was just done by our CEO, Glenn Sanford, to share some of his knowledge.

Also, if you or someone you know is having financial challenges, you may find these articles useful:

Freddie Mac Suspends Foreclosures, Offers Additional Crisis Support

Bank of America Says Customers Impacted By Coronavirus May Be Able to Defer Mortgage Payments

Lots of local Maryland info can be found on this site: 

The Hogan Administration’s COVID-19 Response

Here are the governor’s temporary orders limiting late fees and termination of essential services like electricity, as well as temporary limitations on evictions for those affected by the emergency:

Prohibiting Termination of Residential Services and Late Fees

Temporarily Prohibiting Evictions

As always, if you or someone you know is looking to make a move, to buy or sell real estate, anywhere in the country, whether military, veteran, or civilian, don’t hesitate to ask me for information.  Or if you have any other questions, or just want to talk, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

PCSing with Pets to Fort Meade or Annapolis: A Guide to Moving with Your Furbabies

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PCSing isn’t a fun task to begin with, but when you add kids, pets, or both to the mix, things can get even more complicated. But good luck with your human children, because today we’re going to focus on our furry friends and making the transition from old place to new as safe and smooth for them, and you, as (humanly) possible!

For more support when relocating to Fort Meade or Annapolis connect with your local military families here.

Before Your Move: The Truth About Cats & Dogs

Let’s be honest, dogs travel much more easily than cats, that’s just a fact. But if you have a squeamish dog or laid-back kitty, that’s great to know ahead of time because the best thing you can possibly do when you get your orders is begin preparing your animals for the big move. Start by getting your pets accustomed to being in a carrier if they aren’t already. Introduce them into the space by putting an article of your clothing and their favorite toys inside, then by giving them treats while they’re in there and doing it all in the comfort of the home they already know and love.

Packing Day: Should They Stay or Should They Go Now?

Strangers in and out of the house, boxes being packed with that loud awful tape noise, doors left open without the consideration of a fleeing freaked-out pet. You need to have a plan for your pets on this hectic day that will keep them safe and calm. Perhaps you should leave them with a friend or think about boarding them for a day or two. But either way, they should not be left in the thick of things. Even if you simply leave them in a back room where it’s quiet, your pets should always be kept in a secure and tranquil location when it’s time for the action to start.

On the Road Again

Don’t forget to pack for your pet for your time on the road. Make sure you have their leash, food and water dish, bottled water, pet first aid kit, disposable litterbox (for a cat), and throw in some blankets and toys for their comfort and entertainment as well. If crossing state lines, make sure you get a health certificate from your vet in the chance that you’re pulled over and asked to provide one. Be sure you have all identification tags with correct contact information and that any microchip records are up to date.

Always make sure your pets are secured and safe while driving. Loose pets are not only vulnerable in accidents, but they can also provoke distracted driving that causes one. Dogs should be in crates or restrained with a safety harness. Cats should be in a carrier, preferably one with a cover to keep them calm when the trip begins. And don’t forget to take your dogs out at every pit stop!

For more support when relocating to Fort Meade or Annapolis connect with your local military families here.

How to find the Best Realtor

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Have you thought about moving to a new home, investing in more property, or downsizing?  

Is there something that you want to sell to simplify life?

Or something to buy to bring you joy?

And who did you talk to over the holidays who would like to make a move?

If you know someone who wants to make a move anywhere in the country, you can help by introducing us! I know lots of people in the real estate industry, all over the place, and like to screen prospective agents for you and your friends. It makes me happy to introduce good people to good people who can help them get things done.

This is really different from a lot of referral and rebate services, that just introduce people to Realtors who pay for advertising. Those are not always the best ones!

To find the best Realtor to meet your needs, ask for a referral from a reliable, trustworthy professional. For such a big move, it’s really important to get the right support.

Annapolis Waterfront House Just Listed – 38 Williams Dr

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This beautiful Annapolis waterfront home has just been listed for sale. It’s sited on Weems Creek in Admiral Heights.

Is this the one you have been waiting for?

Enjoy the Annapolis waterfront lifestyle including…

waking up to a gorgeous 180 degree water view, relaxing on your screened back porch, working and dining overlooking the water, and boating from your own private 25′ deep-water pier with multiple slips, a boat lift, electricity and fresh water.

This home has many wonderful features including a gourmet kitchen with island, hardwood floors throughout, water views on every level, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a huge deck.

The marvelous Admiral Heights community amenities include a pool, pier, boat ramp, parks, clubs, and social events!

We’ll be having an open house next weekend, January 26th. Come and see! Or call with questions!

Anne Arundel County Real Estate Market Statistics Year 2019

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If you are wondering how the last year went in our local market, here are some market statistics for the entire year of 2019 in Anne Arundel County, compared to 2018.

  • Total Sales: $4,109,091,572 (up 12.29%)
  • Average Discount Off List Price: 2.7% (was 3.1%)
  • Average Days on the Market: 46 (down 38.67%)
  • Average Sold Price: $411,547 (up 2.49%)
  • Real Buyers (Homes Sold): 9,873 (up 8.34%)

(Data Source: Bright MLS Statistics calculated 1/7/2020)

All of these numbers show that this market was stronger for sellers over the past year. If you’d like details on your neighborhood, just ask.

Anne Arundel County Real Estate Market Statistics Year 2019

Furnished Homes for Rent and Annapolis Property Management

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Do you know someone who would be interested in renting their property, furnished? 

Or someone who could use someone local to keep an eye on their property while they are out of town? 

Maybe snowbirds who are heading south for winter?

With the temperature today, it feels like a good time to get going! 

Some great resources are available to help with these situations, just ask me for details.

Fixing vacant abandoned neglected properties and improving neighborhoods

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Around Halloween, vacant, scary houses are thrilling!  

For some people, including some of my real estate clients, these houses are thrilling not only in October, but all year round. 

If you know of a local neglected, abandoned, or vacant property ,in or around Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Maryland, you can help improve our community. If you let me know about a property like this, then I may be able to get local investor to turn it around.  

If you share a physical address or name and phone number for an owner of an unwanted property, I’ll get to work on it right away.

House Hacking – How to Live Rent-Free

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Are you renting a home, or do you have friends or family members who are?

Wouldn’t it be great to build wealth through real estate and maybe even live rent-free?

Lots of people are very cautious or just don’t know what they can do. Many people have student loan debt and they are working to pay it off, and they don’t have much money for a downpayment.

By putting in a bit of extra effort and being creative, it’s possible to save money by buying a home, and even cover your housing expenses. Even in a high-cost area like Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.

Scott Trench shared some great ideas in the Millenial Money blog article, titled “House Hacking | How to Live for Free”.  As Scott wrote:

House Hacking is having your cake, and eating it too. It’s a mix between buying a personal residence and investment property.

House hacking occurs when you buy a piece of investment real estate, live in one of the units or bedrooms, and rent out the others.

One of my clients recently did this, and she is thrilled to have her roommates helping to pay off her mortgage!

If you want to find out how she did it, and explore what you can do, let me know!