Have you been thinking about selling your house? If so, we've got some good news for you. While the housing market isn't as crazy at it was during the pandemic, homes are still selling faster than normal.  And, with inventory down, those quick sales are resulting is substantial increases in home values.

The graph below uses data from a leading real estate website to tell the story of the median days on the market for every January from 2017 all the way through the latest numbers available. Days on market starts counting the day the property is listed and ends when the property is marked under contract. This measurement gives you an idea of how quickly homes are selling compared to what is considered a "normal" real estate market.

While these are national statistics, homes in the Anne Arundel County real estate market are selling well below 30 days on the market.  

When you look at the most recent data (shown in green), it's clear homes are selling faster than they usually would (shown in blue). In fact, the only years when houses sold even faster than they are right now were the abnormal ‘unicorn’ years (shown in pink).  to Realtor.com:

What Does This Mean for You?

Homes are selling faster than the norm for this time of year – and your house may sell quickly too. That’s because more people are looking to buy now that mortgage rates have come down, but there still aren’t enough homes to go around. Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, says:

“Homes spent 69 days on the market, which is three days shorter than last year and more than two weeks shorter than before the COVID-19 pandemic.”

What Does This Mean for You?

Homes are selling faster than the norm for this time of year – and your house may sell quickly too. That’s because more people are looking to buy now that mortgage rates have come down, but there still aren’t enough homes to go around. Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, says:

“. . . 2024 is starting stronger than last year. And demand is increasing each week.”

Bottom Line

If you’re wondering if it’s a good time to sell your home, the most recent data suggests it is. The housing market appears to be stronger than it usually is at this time of year. To get the latest updates on what’s happening in our local market, let’s connect.

It’s Time To Prepare Your Home for a Spring Listing

If you're thinking of selling your house this spring, now is the perfect time to start getting it ready. With the market gearing up for its busiest time of year, it'll be important to make sure your house shines bright among the competition.

Here are some valuable tips you can use to get your house market-ready.

Declutter and Organize

First impressions matter, and if your house is a mess, that can easily turn off potential buyers. Before listing, take the time to declutter and organize each room. Decluttering is about more than just tidying up – it's about creating a sense of space and openness that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home. According to Moving.com:

“Decluttering and organizing your space will go a long way in appealing to potential buyers. . . .decluttering will help the buyers see themselves living in your home. Less clutter inside a home also helps a place appear larger and cleaner, which should attract more buyers.”

Deep Clean Your Kitchen and Bathrooms

The kitchen and bathrooms are focal points for many buyers, and often influence their overall opinion of the house. Ensure these spaces dazzle by giving them a thorough deep cleaning. Pay attention to details like scrubbing grout lines, polishing fixtures, and decluttering countertops. A sparkling kitchen and bathroom can leave a lasting positive impression on potential buyers.

Maintain Your Yard

Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see, so it’s important to make a good impression from the moment they arrive. A well-maintained yard not only enhances curb appeal, but also shows buyers the home has been well taken care of.

Take the time to spruce up your yard by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and clearing away any debris or dead plants. Remember, the goal is to create a welcoming environment that entices buyers to step inside and imagine themselves living there. U.S. News says:

“A beautifully landscaped front yard can elevate an ordinary house into a charming home and will help homes sell faster and for more money.”

Find a Listing Agent

A skilled listing agent is your partner in minimizing stress when selling your home. Lean on your agent for advice on decluttering, staging, and enhancing your home's appeal to potential buyers. Their insights into market trends and recommendations for reliable contractors and stagers are invaluable. 

“A good listing agent will help you price your home . . . recommend a photographer and stager to make it look its best, and put your home on the multiple listing service.”

Bottom Line

By decluttering, deep cleaning, and tidying up your house, you can create a welcoming environment that resonates with buyers and increases your chances of a successful sale. Let’s connect on what you need to do to get your house ready to sell this spring.

If single family home pricing in Maryland has got you down, let's talk about an easier way to step into
homeownership with a condo or townhome.  

Some Highlights

• If you’re trying to buy a home but are having a hard time finding something in your budget, here’s something that can help: consider condos and townhomes.
• They may better fit your budget, can help you start building equity, and tend to require minimal upkeep and less maintenance.
• Looking at condos and townhomes can make it easier to find and buy a home. When you're ready, let’s connect.

Finding the right home is one of the biggest challenges for potential buyers today. Right now, the supply of homes for sale is still low. But there is a bright spot. Newly built homes make up a larger percent of the total homes available for sale than normal. That’s why, if you’re craving more options, it makes sense to see if a newly built home is right for you.

But it’s important to remember the process of working with a builder is different than buying from a homeowner. And, while builders typically have sales agents on-site, having your own agent helps make sure you have proper representation throughout your homebuying journey. As Realtor.com says:

“Keep in mind that the on-site agent you meet at a new-construction office works for the builder. So, as the homebuyer, it’s a smart idea to bring in your own agent, as well, to help you negotiate and stay protected in the transaction.”

Here’s how having your own agent is key when you build or buy a new construction home.

Agents Know the Local Area and Market

It’s important to consider how the neighborhood and surrounding area may evolve before making your home purchase. Your agent is well-versed in the upcoming communities and developments that could influence your decision. One way a real estate agent can help is by reviewing the builder's site plan. For example, you’ll want to know if there are any plans to construct a highway or add a drainage ditch behind your prospective backyard.

Knowledge of Construction Quality and Builder Reputation

An agent also has expertise in the construction quality and reputation of different builders. They can give you insights into each one's track record, customer satisfaction, and construction practices. Armed with this information, you can choose a builder known for consistently delivering top-notch homes.

Assistance with Customization and Upgrades

The most obvious benefit of opting for new home construction is the opportunity to customize your home. Your agent will guide you through that process and share advice on the upgrades that are most likely to add long-term value to your home. Their expertise helps make sure you focus your budget on areas that will give you the greatest return on your investment later.

Understanding Builder Negotiations and Contracts

When it comes to working with builders, having a skilled negotiator on your side can make all the difference. Builder contracts can be complex. Your agent can help you navigate these contracts to make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions. Plus, agents are skilled negotiators who can advocate for you, potentially securing better deals, upgrades, or incentives throughout the process. As Realtor.com says:

“A good buyer’s agent will be able to review any contracts before you sign on the dotted line, ensuring you aren’t unwittingly agreeing to terms that only benefit the builder.” 

Bottom Line

If you are interested in buying or building a new construction home, having a trusted agent by your side can make a big difference. If you'd like to start that conversation, let’s connect.  The Roskelly Team would love to go to work for you.

We're checking in on the Gambrills real estate market as this small town is one of the top requested destinations for our Fort Meade MD real estate relocation clients.  What makes Gambrills so great?  Well, it has a wide variety of housing options including age qualified condos, duplexes, and single family homes from modest to luxury.  It's also minutes from the Waugh Chapel shopping center, which offers some of the areas best shopping including Wegman's, Home Goods, and so much more.

Four Seasons Estates, a community of almost 1,200 single family homes and duplexes built in the 1970's is one of the top destinations with most single family homes priced under $500,000.  It has great school assignments and is an easy 10 minute commute to the base making it one of our most requested areas for Fort Meade homebuyers.

Summerfield Village, a community of large, luxury townhomes built in the 2015 and up is another hot spot.  These homes are priced in the mid $500 range to $650.

Wilson's Grove, a super popular Gambrills community of luxury, single family homes is actually nestled right in the middle of Crofton and is one of the very few addresses in Gambrills that feeds into the newly built Crofton High School.

There are many more communities to explore!  Contact us,  and we'll get you a customized search, or a list of homes.

If you're thinking of buying a home or selling a home in Gambrills, MD, The Roskelly Team would love to put our two decades of local market experience, and state-of-the-art technology to work for you to get you the very best price and contract terms on your next home.

Right now, there are just 9 homes available for sale in the community priced from $317,000 for a one bedroom, age-qualified condo to almost 4 million for a 6,000 s.f. luxury home on 2 acres.  The median price in the area is $540,000.

2610 Chapel Lake Dr Unit #212, Gambrills$317,500

New Year, New Home! Welcome to the Desirable 55+ Community Living Experience at Waugh Chapel
Village and discover the extraordinary opportunity to call this sought-after...

• 1BEDS
• 2BATHS
• MDAA2074014MLS
• 1,309SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

2604 Chapel Lake Dr Unit #409, Gambrills$339,000 ▼

PRICE REDUCED! Don't Miss Yet Another Wonderful Opportunity to0
Live in the Sought-After 55+ Condominium Community of Waugh Chapel
Village! (small allowance for under 55 ...

• 2BEDS
• 2BATHS
• MDAA2072558MLS
• 1,394SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

2606 Chapel Lake Dr Unit #110, Gambrills$359,900

Welcome home to the Village of Waugh Chapel! This active 55+ condo
unit has 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, den, and a bonus

sunroom overlooking scenic woods (1,356 sq...

• 2BEDS
• 2BATHS
• MDAA2076010MLS
• 1,356SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

1411 Wigeon Way Unit #305, Gambrills$409,000

Very desirable top floor Colchester model in exclusive Carroll's Creek
community. Lovely, light-filled unit provides an open floor plan with
over 1600 square feet of liv...

• 2BEDS
• 2BATHS
• MDAA2074198MLS
• 1,695SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

1072 Red Clover Rd, Gambrills$599,900

Beautiful 3 Level 2 Car Garage Townhouse in the sought area of
Gambrills in the community of Summerfield Village, 2,772 Total
Sq Ft per tax records. This home has had onl...

• 3BEDS
• 4BATHS
• MDAA2076894MLS
• 1,848SQFT.
• COMING SOONSTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

2525 Hyacinth Ln, Gambrills$640,000

Luxury 3 Level Brick Townhouse with 4 BR, 3.5 Baths. House is
Amazing - Beautiful Hardwood Flooring through out the Main Level.
Large Open Floor Plan Kitchen / Family R...

• 4BEDS
• 4BATHS
• MDAA2075716MLS
• 1,848SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

1079 Md Rt 3 North, Gambrills$680,000

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and opportunity in this versatile
3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rancher nestled on over 3 acres of prime
residential and commercial land. Em...

• 3BEDS
• 2BATHS
• MDAA2076260MLS
• 1,728SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

900 Saint Michael Dr, Gambrills$1,400,000

Elegant traditional living in Gambrills. This former model home was built

with too many upgrades to list! The stately foyer leads to the formal

living and dining room...

• 5BEDS
• 5BATHS
• MDAA2073428MLS
• 5,632SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 ADD TO FAVORITES REQUEST INFORMATION

2030 Huntwood Dr, Gambrills$3,951,100

Magnificent estate, long admired, and truly a lifestyle property, is now

available and ready to be shown to buyers seeking privacy amid exquisite

surroundings. Intention...

• 5BEDS
• 6BATHS
• MDAA2067666MLS
• 6,350SQFT.
• ACTIVESTATUS

 

 ADD TO FAVORITE

This is going to be a really short blog to make a really BIG point.  There is currently ONE active home for sale in the  popular Seven Oaks neighborhood of Odenton, with only 9 homes under contract. The one active home is a condo at Gatehouse Lane. While all areas close to Fort Meade MD are experiencing an inventory shortage, what's happening in Seven Oaks right now is unprecedented.

There are 4 properties classified as active under contract, that can be shown for back-up only.  So you could gamble that a sale might fall through or a contingency deadline might not be met, but these properties generally do not come back on the market. 

Buying a home in Seven Oaks
Buying a home in Seven Oaks right now requires some patience and determination.  Choose The Roskelly Team to represent you  means you'll get the most up-to-date information about inventory and we'll get you in first to see the hottest new listings.  We'll put our experience to work for you to make sure your offer is crafted to be the winner.  Let's roll up our sleeves and get started!

Selling Your Seven Oaks Home
If you're thinking of selling your Seven Oaks home, The Roskelly Team would love to help you maximize your profits with expert preparation, free home staging, and a picture perfect presentation with expansive Internet distribution to make sure your home is seen by the widest audience of homebuyers. We've got one of the top local real estate websites!

And, we have over two decades of experience in the local market.  We understand home values, current conditions and all factors that can contribute to a higher sales price.  We've got our finger on the pulse of Seven Oaks real estate! EHO

As Fort Meade MD real estate specialists, we often get requests for properties close to the base.  I was scrolling through Anne Arundel County real estate inventory and doing a specific search for a client who would like a single-family home, within 15 minutes of Fort Meade, priced under $600,000 in the cities of Odenton, Crofton, Severn, or Gambrills.  I was shocked to see only 13 properties available with 4 homes marked as ‘coming soon’.  I don’t think I’ve ever seen inventory this low in over 20 years in the local market.  Inventory is locked up as folks are hanging on to their low interest rates and just not making a move.  We’re really relying on relocation sellers rather than lateral or move up sellers to keep this market afloat. 

Of these homes, 9 have been for sale for close to 30 days or higher.  In this market that means condition is not matching pricing and realistically, we can remove those from the inventory as options for this client.  Of the total inventory, 11 of these might be a fit for my client.
Historically, we've had more homes come on the market than usual, but they are getting snapped up within days. There are 16 homes under contract in these same areas, illustrating the demand is more than keeping pace with the inventory.   Buyers are back and aggressively house-hunting and offers are getting super competitive.  

We’re getting creative to find areas that may be just a bit further from the base but offer the same features at a lower price with an added commute.  Navigating this market requires an experienced pro to help you write a winning offer once you find 'the one'.

If you’re thinking of selling your Anne Arundel county home, we’d love to talk with you!  Even in a seller’s market, you need great preparation and presentation to maximize your profit and the Roskelly Team is expert at getting you there with free home staging, professional photography, floor plans (Fort Meade relocation buyers LOVE floorplans!), and a marketing plan that leans heavily on the Internet to make sure your home is exposed to the largest audience of homebuyers possible. EHO

The Roskelly Team specializes in assisting homebuyers and home sellers in the Seven Oaks community of Odenton.  We've been representing families in this popular neighborhood just outside the gates of Fort Meade for over 20 years which means we really understand the unique properties of the community and know how to show those off when you're selling and help you determine a fair purchase price when you're buying.  We keep our finger on the pulse of the Seven Oaks market so we can give you great guidance on community pricing, home models, and amenities.  

Our Seven Oaks webpage is designed to give you all the information that you need to:

Search homes for sale
Search homes for rent
View our marketing plan to sell your home
Get a free home value estimate
Access a free market report to view the latest home listings, under contract properties, and recently sold houses

And, you can follow our blog for regular market reports to show you real estate activity on a monthly basis. 

Want to keep track of the value of your Seven Oaks home and how much equity you've earned since you purchased? We have an online tool for that as well.

The Roskelly Team specializes in homes for sale and seller representation in the Piney Orchard community of Odenton.  We follow this market closely and love to bring you the latest real estate news and market stats on a regular basis. 

We're checking in today with a Piney Orchard real estate market report.  You can click the link to view the full report, or we'll give you the highlights here.

There are currently 7 homes for sale in Piney Orchard including 2 townhomes and 5 condominiums.  There are no single family homes for sale in the community at this time.

Homes For Sale in Piney Orchard

There are 9 houses under contract  including 4 townhomes and 5 condominiums.  And there are 9 recently sold homes.  Once again, there is not enough inventory to satisfy the demand and home prices continue to rise with one townhome sale topping out at $489,000 this month.  That same house would have sold in the $400,000 range just 5 years ago, illustrating the investment power of this popular Odenton community. That's a lot of equity if you invested in this community and those increases outpace Anne Arundel county as a whole.

The community is also a top choice with homebuyers and renters checking in to Fort Meade for military or civilian work.  Fort Meade is the largest employer in our area and an important factor in the demand for homes here.

If you're thinking about selling your Piney Orchard home, The Roskelly Team would love to go to work for you to get you the best possible price and contract terms on your home sale.  Need a rent back, delayed settlement, specific settlement date?  No problem.  We are true negotiators and we thrive on exceeding your expectations!  EHO