Millennial homebuyers are looking for community, convenience (shopping and commuting) and quality of life.  Those who have set their sights on purchasing a home in Anne Arundel County MD are planting roots in these top 5 city destinations. 

Annapolis
Known for its rich history, vibrant waterfront, and eclectic dining scene, Annapolis is a top choice for millennials looking to balance work and play. With its mix of charming historic homes and modern condos, Annapolis offers a range of housing options that appeal to young professionals and families alike. The proximity to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., makes it a strategic location for those who need to commute while enjoying a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle.

Odenton
Odenton has been rapidly growing in popularity, especially among millennials. As one of the main gateways to Fort Meade, it attracts a lot of young professionals working in government and technology sectors. Odenton’s mix of real estate includes newly built townhomes and single-family houses, along with its accessibility to the MARC train and major highways, makes it a convenient hub for commuters. The developing shopping centers, restaurants, and parks add to its appeal for those seeking a suburban feel with urban amenities.

Crofton
Crofton real estate has long been a hotspot for millennial homebuyers due to its reputation for excellent schools, friendly community vibe, and proximity to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. With a variety of townhomes and single-family residences, Crofton offers a balance between suburban tranquility and metropolitan accessibility. The area's green spaces, local events, and community-oriented culture resonate strongly with young families and professionals looking to settle down.

Severna Park
Severna Park's real estate appeal lies in its scenic surroundings and strong sense of community. Located along the Severn River, it offers a range of outdoor activities, from boating to hiking, that attract millennials who prioritize an active lifestyle. Severna Park's highly-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and a blend of historic homes and modern developments make it a desirable place to live. The small-town feel with easy access to everything Annapolis is a major draw for young buyers.

Glen Burnie
Glen Burnie real estate is on the radar for millennial buyers due to its affordability and strategic location. With easy access to major highways, public transportation, and the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Glen Burnie is ideal for those who value convenience and connectivity. The neighborhood offers a diverse housing market, ranging from starter homes to larger family residences, and is seeing a rise in local businesses, eateries, and entertainment spots that cater to a younger crowd.

Anne Arundel County real estate offers a diverse range of neighborhoods that cater to the values and needs of millennial homebuyers. Whether it’s a lively downtown area, a quiet suburban street, or a community-rich environment, millennials are finding their ideal homes in these five vibrant locales. As more young professionals and families continue to seek affordable, accessible, and community-oriented places to live, these neighborhoods are likely to remain hotspots for years to come.

If you're ready to buy a home in Anne Arundel County, The Roskelly Team would love to put their 25 years of local real estate market experience to work for you!

With 25 years of experience in the real estate market, I’ve seen it all when it comes to listing and selling homes. In this blog, I’ll share 10 crucial lessons I’ve learned over the years that can help you navigate the home-selling process more effectively. Whether you’re a first-time seller or an experienced homeowner, these insights will provide you with valuable strategies to make your listing stand out and sell faster.

1. Understand the Market Trends

You’ll want to stay informed about current market conditions and trends. This takes a lot of local market knowledge.  We keep track of home sales in our area.  What’s selling, and what’s not are both important. Having a good read on the buyer market is imperative.  Are closing concessions common, unheard of, or somewhere in between?  Are buyers waiving home inspection or financing contingencies?  Are owner rent-backs common? You’ll want to understand this and more to determine your pricing strategy and understand how it affects your bottom line.

2. Price Your Home Competitively

There definitely IS a sweet spot on pricing and setting a realistic starting price is not just a strategy, it’s an absolute must.  Overpricing can be a costly mistake.  Underpricing your home is usually adjusted by the market through multiple offers.  But hitting your sweet spot from your first day on the market will mean fewer days on market, more competition and a better bottom line offer.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter.  Invest in exterior improvements like landscaping, painting, or minor repairs to boost your home’s curb appeal. A well-maintained exterior can attract more buyers and increase your home’s value.  We’ve got the right vendors to make this part a snap if you need help.

4. Stage Your Home Effectively

Staging can make a significant difference.  Proper staging helps buyers envision themselves in your home. Focus on decluttering, neutralizing décor, and arranging furniture to highlight your home’s strengths and make it more inviting.  We think staging is so important we include “soft staging” with linens and décor are standard part of our listing service at no extra cost.

5. Professional Photography is Key

Quality photos are essential for attracting buyers. We invest in professional photography, video and floor plans to showcase your home’s best features. High-quality images are crucial for online listings, which are often the first impression potential buyers have of your property.  Showing the buyer how your property is laid out is especially important in our market as we have a lot of military and government relocations clients.  They are making choices about the homes they want to see from afar and they love floor plans!  Who wouldn’t?

6. Prepare for Showings and Open Houses

Presentation during showings can impact offers. The hardest part of listing your home is keeing it show ready clean and organized while the home is actively for sale.  Being flexible with showing days and times is also a must. A welcoming atmosphere during open houses can help buyers imagine themselves living there.  Our cumulative days on market is less than 14 over the past 25 years, through markets good and bad.  We work hard to make sure you get your best price in the least amount of time.   Because, making those beds every morning can get old.

7. Be Transparent with Disclosures

Honesty builds trust with buyers.  It is absolutely required that you provide accurate and complete disclosure statements. We'll walk you through that process.  Being upfront about any issues with the property can help us address any issues up front and prevent potential future legal disputes.

8. Negotiate Wisely

Negotiation skills are crucial.  And we LOVE to negotiate for you.  In fact, we’re experts at this and will work hard to make sure you’ve got the best buyer, at the best price, with the best terms. 

9. Leverage Online Marketing

Your home needs to be found easily online and presented with the best media.  We’ve invested tens of thousands of dollars to make sure our clients receive that exposure from day 1 of marketing.  We are the top local resource for real estate information for Fort Meade and surrounding areas. 

10. Choose the Right Agent

Your agent can make or break your sale.  It’s important that you choose an agent with a proven track record in your local market. An experienced listing agent will have the expertise and resources to guide you through the selling process and achieve the best results. 

Selling a home can be a complex process but applying these lessons from 25 years in the Maryland real estate industry can help you navigate the journey more effectively. By understanding market trends, pricing competitively, and presenting your home in the best light, you can enhance your chances of a successful sale. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out for personalized advice. Visit us online to learn more about our marketing plan or to request a free, no obligation market value analysis for your home.

Laura Roskelly REALTOR

The Roskelly Team just listed this beautiful home for sale in Piney Orchard! This rarely available 4,000 s.f. end of group luxury Villa with 2 car garage has no age restrictions and features two primary suites, including one conveniently located on the main level. This home is situated on a private lot that backs to the Nature Preserve and walking trails, and is just one block from the Island Pool and the newest playground in the amenity rich community of Piney Orchard. The location of this home places you within 10 minutes of the Odenton MARC station, Fort Meade, and major commuting routes to Baltimore, DC, and Annapolis.

Take a 3D tour, view floor plans, property photos, contact details and more!

Inside you’ll find a main level with a sunny two-story foyer and columned entrance to both the living room and dining rooms. The spacious kitchen features loads of cabinet and counter space, a center island, wall oven and microwave, gas cooktop, pantry and a sunny breakfast room with an office nook, a main level master suite with double closets plus a luxury bath with soaking tub and shower. A laundry room that opens to the garage and offers a utility sink, and a powder room completes this level.

Upstairs you’ll find a bonus family room on the upper landing with step up entry to the second primary suite with a wooded view, cozy gas fireplace, huge 7 x 10 walk-in closet, and a luxury bath with soaking tub, shower, and double sink vanity. Two additional generously sized bedrooms and a 3rd full bath complete the upper-level floor plan.

The basement offers a supersized 33’ x 26 recreation room with natural and recessed lighting, a 5th bedroom with entry to the half bath, and almost 400 s.f. of storage space with built-in shelving.

Outside, you’ll find a private deck with a lovely wooded view. Accessed from the living room, this is the perfect place for enjoying your morning coffee or a gathering with friends.

The Piney Orchard Community features amenities galore including multiple pools, an upscale community center with fitness center, indoor pool and hot tub, meeting areas, a small library and more. You’ll also enjoy tennis/pickleball courts, multiple tot lots, scenic walking trails, tranquil nature area with lake, picnic areas, sports courts, seasonal farmer’s market, community activities and more. Simply the best amenities in the area!

    

There’s an interesting trend happening in the housing market. People are increasingly moving to more affordable areas, and remote or hybrid work is helping them do it.

Consider Moving to a More Affordable Area

Today’s high mortgage rates combined with continually rising home prices mean it’s tough for a lot of people to afford a home right now. That’s why many interested buyers are moving to places where homes are less expensive, and the cost of living is lower. As Orphe Divounguy, Senior Economist at Zillow, explains:

“Housing affordability has always mattered . . . and you’re seeing it across the country. Housing affordability is reshaping migration trends.”

If you’re hoping to buy a home soon, it might make sense to broaden your search area to include places where homes that fit your needs are more affordable. That’s what a lot of other people are doing right now to find a home within their budget. Extra Space Storage explains:

“55% of American adults are looking to relocate to a different state or city for more affordable homes and lower costs of living. . . Specifically, states with a strong economy, lower costs of living, and remote work options continue to be the ideal places to live in the U.S.”

Remote Work Opens Up More Home Options

If you work remotely or drive into the office only a few times each week, you have many more possibilities when looking for your next home. That’s because you can cast a broader net and include more suburban or rural areas nearby. As Market Place Homes says:

“People start to reconsider where they want to live when commute times are slashed in half or eliminated altogether. If they have a longer commute but don’t have to do it daily, they may feel like they can tolerate living farther away from their job. Or, if someone works entirely remotely, they can move to a cheaper area and get a lot of house for their dollar.”

How a Real Estate Agent Can Help

A real estate agent can help you find the perfect home for your budget. They’re especially valuable if you’re moving to a new, unfamiliar area. Bankrate says:   

“If you’re moving far away, you may not have a good idea about which neighborhoods or towns will be the best fit. An experienced local agent can help you find the lifestyle you’re looking for in a home you can afford.”

So, if you're thinking about relocating to somewhere with more affordable homes, what are you waiting for? With the added flexibility of remote work, you might have more options than before.

Bottom Line

Dreaming of a place where your money goes further? Let’s connect so you have someone to help you find your next home. Together, we’ll make your dream of homeownership a reality.

Welcome to our in-depth analysis of the latest real estate trends near Fort Meade, MD, and the surrounding cities. Whether you're considering buying, selling, or investing in this dynamic area, understanding the current market conditions is essential. Let's delve into the trends and insights provided by Realtor Property Resource (RPR) to give you a clear picture of what's happening in these sought-after communities.

Fort Meade, MD: A Hub of Activity

Fort Meade, located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, is a thriving military base with a significant impact on the local real estate market. Its strategic location between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., makes it a prime destination for those seeking proximity to major employment centers and a diverse range of amenities.

Current Market Trends

1. Housing Inventory: The inventory of homes near Fort Meade has seen fluctuations recently. As of the most recent data, there has been a gradual increase in available properties, providing more options for prospective buyers.

2. Pricing Dynamics: Prices in the Fort Meade area have shown resilience, with moderate appreciation in line with broader market trends in the region. The median home price remains competitive, attracting both first-time buyers and investors alike.

3. Buyer Demand: Demand for homes near Fort Meade remains robust, driven by factors such as the base's employment opportunities, proximity to major highways, and quality of life amenities. This demand contributes to a competitive market environment for well-priced properties.

4. Market Activity by City:

Odenton, MD

Overview: Odenton is a popular choice for those stationed at Fort Meade due to its close proximity and variety of housing options.

• Market Trends: The real estate market in Odenton has been active, with a steady flow of new listings and strong buyer interest.
• Housing Types: Offers a mix of townhomes, single-family homes, and apartments, catering to a diverse range of preferences and budgets.

Severn, MD

Overview: Severn offers a suburban setting close to Fort Meade, appealing to families and professionals alike.

• Market Trends: The market in Severn has shown stability, with steady home values and a balanced inventory.
• Community Appeal: Known for its spacious homes, good schools, and access to recreational facilities, making it a desirable location for many buyers.

Laurel, MD

Overview: Located near Fort Meade, Laurel provides a blend of urban conveniences and suburban charm.

• Market Trends: Laurel's real estate market has remained vibrant, with a mix of older homes and newer developments.
• Attractions: Offers shopping, dining, and cultural amenities, along with easy access to major transportation routes.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers:

• Market Research: Stay informed about current trends and consult with a local real estate agent familiar with the Fort Meade area.
• Financial Readiness: Secure pre-approval for a mortgage to act quickly when the right property becomes available.

For Sellers:

• Competitive Pricing: Price your home competitively based on recent sales and market conditions to attract potential buyers.
• Presentation: Enhance curb appeal and consider staging to showcase your home's best features.

In conclusion, the real estate market near Fort Meade, MD, and its surrounding cities offers a diverse range of opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly neighborhood, a convenient commute, or an investment property, understanding these market dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions.

As you navigate the real estate landscape in this dynamic region, consider leveraging the expertise of local real estate professionals who can provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs. Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the evolving real estate trends near Fort Meade, MD!

For personalized assistance and further information, feel free to reach out to our team of experts who are dedicated to helping you achieve your real estate goals.

Hey there, future Fort Meade neighbor! If you're on the hunt for the perfect home near Fort Meade, Maryland, let me introduce you to a gem of a resource: FortMeadeHomes.com. Trust me, it's not your average real estate website. Here’s why I think it’s the best place for all your buying, selling, or renting needs in this vibrant military community.

Local Expertise That Counts
When it comes to real estate, experience matters. FortMeadeHomes.com boasts a whopping 25 years of local market expertise. That’s right – two and a half decades of navigating the ins and outs of the Fort Meade area. Whether you’re looking to settle down in Odenton, Severn, or anywhere in between, their in-depth knowledge ensures you’ll find a home that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Military Family Operated & Female Veteran Owned
What sets FortMeadeHomes.com apart is their personal touch.  This website was designed and built by a military Veteran and military spouse. As a military family-operated and veteran-owned business, they understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with military life. Whether you’re PCS'ing (Permanent Change of Station) to Fort Meade or looking to relocate within the area, they’ve got your back with insights that only a military-connected team can provide.

Designed with You in Mind
Ever visited a real estate website that left you more confused than informed? FortMeadeHomes.com is different. The site was designed by a military spouse who knows firsthand what it’s like to navigate PCS orders and relocation. You’ll find everything you need right at your fingertips – from detailed information on neighborhoods and schools to tips on commuting distances and local amenities.

Search Made Simple
Searching for your dream home shouldn’t feel like a mission impossible. FortMeadeHomes.com makes it easy with intuitive search features that allow you to filter listings by commuting distance, home type, price range, and more. Whether you prefer a cozy townhouse in a family-friendly neighborhood or a spacious single-family home with a backyard for your furry friends, you can tailor your search to find exactly what you’re looking for.  Search all homes for sale near Fort Meade or all homes for rent near Fort Meade.

Relocation Resources Galore
Moving to a new duty station can be daunting, but FortMeadeHomes.com has your relocation covered. Their website is packed with valuable resources, from relocation guides to handy checklists, all geared towards making your transition smoother. They understand that finding a home is just one piece of the puzzle, and they’re here to support you every step of the way.

Community Connection
Beyond just buying or selling homes, FortMeadeHomes.com is committed to building a community. They’re invested in the Fort Meade area, and it shows in their dedication to helping you find not just a house, but a place you can truly call home.

So, whether you’re PCS'ing to Fort Meade, selling your home near Fort Meade, or simply exploring your options in this vibrant military community, look no further than FortMeadeHomes.com. With their local expertise, military family roots, and user-friendly design, they’re your ultimate resource for real estate near Fort Meade, MD. Ready to start your journey? Dive into their website and discover why so many military families trust them with their housing needs. Happy house hunting!

You've earned a fantastic benefit with your military service with a no money down VA loan.  Let us tell you how you can use that benefit to purchase a home with as little as $1,000 out of pocket.  The Fort Meade MD real estate market is changing and we're starting to see some inventory build up.  We're helping buyers get some or all of their closing costs paid which means you could buy for much less than renting.  And, when it's time to PCS to another base, you can easily rent your home for an amount that matches or exceeds your monthly mortgage payment.  

For over 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you know has served in the military, it's important to learn about this program and its benefits.

We've got the best local VA lender experts to help you get the very best terms on your VA loan.  You can even apply for a loan right on line!

Top Benefits of VA Home Loans

VA home loans make it easier for veterans to buy a home, and they're a great perk for those who qualify. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, some benefits include:

• Options for No Down Payment: Qualified borrowers can often purchase a home with no down payment. That’s a huge weight lifted when you’re trying to save for a home. The Associated Press says:

“. . . about 90% of VA loans are used to purchase a home with no money down.”

• Don’t Require Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Many other loans with down payments under 20% require PMI. VA loans do not, which means veterans can save on their monthly housing costs.
  
  
• Limited Closing Costs: There are limits on the types of closing costs you pay when you qualify for a VA home loan. So, more money stays in your pocket when it’s time to seal the deal.

An article from Veterans United sums up how remarkable this loan can be:

“For the vast majority of military borrowers, VA loans represent the most powerful lending program on the market. These flexible, $0-down payment mortgages have helped more than 24 million service members become homeowners since 1944.”

Bottom Line

Owning a home is the American Dream. Veterans give a lot to protect our country, and one way to honor them is by making sure they know about VA home loans.

With average rental prices near Fort Meade MD at record highs in the $3,000 range, you might want to weigh your options for housing on your next PCS move.  In many cases, renting is less expensive up front AND in your monthly payment.  If you haven't explored using your VA loan to purchase a home, we'd love to connect to give you all your options.  Whether you're buying or renting, we want to be the team to help you find your perfect place!

Search: homes for sale near Fort Meade, MD or homes for rent near Fort Meade MD with The Roskelly Team today!

If you're thinking of selling your home near Fort Meade MD, you'll want to make sure you've got the BEST agent.  The Roskelly Team has invested heavily in the local real estate market over the past 25 years to make sure that your home is found easily and prominently in all real estate searches.  Of course that's after we've prepared your home for sale including free home staging and professional photos, floor plans, and video.  The Roskelly Team consistently outperforms market averages in both days on market and list price to sale price ration.  The two most important factors in rating an agents effectiveness.  Before you choose and agent, make sure they provide you with this information.  You can view ours here!

You’re ready to sell your house. But what do you need most from your real estate agent? Well, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked that very question to recent sellers and found one of the top things they were looking for is help marketing their house to potential buyers. Maybe that’s what you need the most help with too.

You expect your real estate agent to write a great description of your house for the listing and pair it with some high-quality photos. But that’s not all you’re going to get when you partner with a great agent.

They’ll do a lot more to make sure your house stands out. Here are some of the most common methods real estate agents use to market homes according to that same report from NAR (see graph below):

So, how can you benefit from your agent using these methods?

• Listing on the MLS – By listing your house on the MLS, it will get more visibility from other real estate agents and buyers. This could lead to more traffic, which could ultimately help you see an increase in offers and ultimately a better price.
• Using a Yard Sign – A yard sign catches the eye of people driving or walking by. This method drums up local interest since people who live nearby might have friends or family looking to move into the area. It also prominently displays your agent’s contact information, so interested buyers can get in touch easily.
• Having an Open House – When your agent advertises and hosts your open house, buyers see others are interested in your house, too. This competition can lead to stronger offers. An open house is also easier for you since you only need to leave once for many buyers to visit. Plus, your agent may get useful feedback on what people like or don’t like, which can help you make improvements to attract more buyers later, if needed.
• Showcasing on Your Agent’s Website – Having your house visible on your agent’s website allows for a professional presentation of your property. Additionally, people visiting your agent’s website are more likely to be serious buyers who are ready to make a move.
• Social Networking – Your real estate agent works hard to have a wide-ranging social media presence. Marketing your house this way allows them to reach a large audience. It also makes it easy for people to share your listing with friends and loved ones who might be interested.
• Providing Virtual Tours – Virtual tours are extremely convenient for buyers, especially those who are relocating from out of town. This method allows them to tour anytime, day or night. It shows your agent is using the latest technology to market your house.

There are many tools that can be used to market your house. As NerdWallet sums up:

“A good real estate agent will have a robust plan to promote your listing in an effort to find the right pool of buyers. Adding your home to databases of available homes called multiple listing services (MLS), open houses, 3D virtual tours, professional photography and broker tours for buyers’ agents (particularly for luxury homes) are all factors that may go into a marketing plan.”

As a seller, it’s smart to work with a creative local real estate agent who can maximize them to make sure you get as many eyes on your house as possible.

Bottom Line

When it comes to marketing your house, working with a local real estate agent has tons of benefits. If you’re ready to sell, but don’t know where to start, let’s chat.