Moving Soon?

Buyers and sellers that have a move date based on school schedules (summer break) are starting their search now. Not only are these buyers and sellers dealing with the more obvious realities of winter time real estate – tight inventory, quick contracts and of course the cold – they are also faced with the obvious obstacles – staging, price negotiations, appraisals, inspections, etc.

Another reality of moving is the physical act of getting all that “stuff” from the attic or the basement. Did you realize that you had that much when you moved in? Although some people prefer to gather friends and make the move an almost social event, others prefer to simply pass this large task on to a moving company.

Having made many moves myself, I have explored both the “do it yourself option” as well as the moving company.

I have found both options to have their advantages, but if you are one of those that choose to have the moving company take care of it, you should definitely make sure that you touch on the following:

Price/Payment Options

• What is the standard charge for packing? Is there an unpacking fee?  
• Does it include boxes? If not, what do they cost and will you deliver them?
• Is there an additional charge to deliver some items to a storage unit?
• Do you accept credit cards? Check or cash?  
• Any hidden fees or items we have not discussed?
• What is the deposit?

Insurance Concerns

• Who do I call if I have a damage claim that needs to be addressed?
• What kind of insurance options do you provide and is there an additional cost? 
• What all does your insurance cover? Can items I packed be covered? 
• What is the maximum insurance that can be purchased? 
• If items are covered by my Homeowner’s insurance, whose insurance pays first?

Unusual Items and Requests 

• Can you move my vehicle(s)? Do you tow them or are they on a trailer? 
• Are there any extra charges for shipping ATV, golf carts, small tractors, etc.?  
• Do you have a list of items that cannot be shipped? 
• If you are unable to pack and load everything in one day, can you leave out our essentials until the last day? (beds, needed dishes and other basics)

Timeframes

• What are you available to complete our move?
• How long do you expect it to take to pack and load our items? 
• When will our items arrive at the designated location(s)? 
• Can you store/hold my items should there be any delay with my next house? Additional charge?

Buying or selling a home can be a stressful process. Having a celebratory moving party can be one way to make the process a little easier, but if you do decide to pass this on to a moving company, hopefully following these suggestions will make your dealings with the moving company very simple.

Until next time - Stay on Top of the Market.  

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"
Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860
http://erikhart.lnf.com
http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Or simply Google me, your Maryland Realtor Erik Hart.

Your referrals are always a great compliment.

November 2013 -Baltimore Metro MarketWatch

This is a great snapshot of whats happening in and around Central Maryland.

Keep on Top of the Market

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"

Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 

http://erikhart.lnf.com

http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Your referrals are always a great compliment. 

Fireplace and Chimney Tips

Relaxing with your favorite book…Sipping on a tasty beverage…Warming up your feet after a jaunt in the snow…

These activities can all be done in front of a warm and toasty fireplace.

But what do you do to maintain and operate your fireplace and chimney?

Although a fireplace can be a nice, cozy addition to any household, if not cared for, an unchecked fireplace or chimney can cause some unwanted problems.

Check out some of these tips before you set out to start your next fire…

Schedule a yearly, professional, inspection to insure there are no structural or mechanical issues with your fireplace.

A fire needs three things to survive: oxygen, fuel, and an ignition source.

Before making any fire, be sure to check inside the damper for any obstructions – such as a nesting animal or various yard debris.

Never add questionable fuel – only burn clean, seasoned wood, manufactured logs and non-glossy, white paper.

Never use “green” wood. Un-seasoned wood creates creosote – a combustible by product of charred wood.

Always keep the area around the front of the fireplace clear and free of obstacles (and potential dangerous fuel sources).

If you do not have a glass window on your fireplace, make sure you are using a wire mesh screen. Wire mesh is also a good idea to have on top of your chimney.

Ashes and creosote are a source of calcium – clean out your chimney and then sprinkle the ashes in your flowerbeds for a nice fertilizer addition.

Make sure there are no trees over or up against your chimney.

Install, check and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Following some of these simple tips will not only keep you warm this winter, but will also help ensure your safety througout the cold season. 

Until next time - Stay on Top of the Market.  

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"
Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860
http://erikhart.lnf.com
http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Your referrals are always a great compliment.

Turkey Trots and Fun Runs

November is not only a great month to view some spectacular changes in foliage, but it also provides some great opportunities to get out and be active in the community. Turkey Trots and fun runs are happening all over the county. Some of these events are just for fun, while others are coordinated to support local charities and drives.

Here is a quick recap of three local events that may be of interest:

25^th Annual Anne Arundel Community College Turkey Trot

Who: Open to public, but you must be able to finish in an hour

What: Timed 5k and one mile jaunt

Why: Help support the community college and replenish the campus food pantry

When: November 27^th, early registration rates end today

Where: Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold

Extras: Refreshments provided, no pets or bikes and a free t-shirt for the first 300 participants

More information – www.aacc.edu/healthfitness

Stride for SPAN Turkey Trot

Who: Open to public

What: Timed 5k Race and 1 mile fun walk

Why: Help support SPAN – Serving People Across Neighborhoods

When: November 23^rd, registration closes November 20^th

Where: Kinder Farm Park

Extras: Prizes for top 3 finishers in specified age groups

More information – www.spanhelps.org

Dashing Through the Show 5k Run

Who: Open to the public, but you must be able to finish in an hour

What: 5k Fun Run with the Annapolis Striders Running Club

Why: Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel County Medical Center

When: November 22^nd

Where: Sandy Point State Park

Extras: No bikes, headphones, pets, baby joggers. Enjoy the light show at your own pace.

More information: www.annapolisstriders.org

Get outside, maybe meet some new people and maybe help make someones November a great one. 

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"

Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 

http://erikhart.lnf.com

http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Your referrals are always a great compliment. 

 

Home Defense

With fall comes cool mornings, changing landscapes and more of the “keep us warm” cooking. Fall also can bring opportunities to do some simple home maintenance that can help prevent future costly repairs.

Here are some maintenance tips that all require minimal effort and can definitely provide some comfort for you as the homeowner.

-          Hose check – Remove garden hoses to prevent water back up and potential freezing/cracking of pipes. While you are at it, shut off supply lines to exterior faucets to prevent any slow (and possibly costly) leaks.

-          Take care of your sprinkler system – Turn off the main supply valve to the system and then open your drain valves to completely empty out the system. This can also be a good time to remove sprinkler heads, drain and replace.

-          Seal it up – Grab some color matching caulk and take a tour around the exterior of your house. Take time to seal up cracks between trim and siding, window and door frames and where wires and pipes enter the house. Not only will this prevent water from entering the house, but it can also seal up costly air leaks.

-          Gutter review – Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can turn into some very costly repairs. Clean out gutters of any debris and take time to tighten any gutter hangers, downspouts and replace as needed. Also – downspouts need to extend at least 3 feet away from the foundation of the house.

-          Proof your roof – Give your roof a thorough review. Damaged or missing shingles should be replaced immediately. Pay special attention to any type of growth as this can be a definite sign of possible decay or rot underneath.

-          Furnace inspection – Fall is a great time to get your furnace checked out. Consider getting on a regular maintenance plan as this can not only save you some money but it will also ensure that you are on the top of the list for check-ups. Do not forget to replace your filters while you are at it.

-          Trim the trees – Fall not only brings changes to the colors of leaves, but it also empties the leaves of the summer growth. This is the best time to prune up everything to keep growth at least a few feet away from the house. Doing this not only prevents water runoff onto the house, but it can also be beneficial in preventing damage to the house during times of high winds.

Although this list is not all inclusive, taking the time to check these off of your to do list will give you some comfort in knowing that you are being proactive instead of reactive – which can directly translate to cost savings. Your home will also appreciate it!

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"

Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 

http://erikhart.lnf.com

http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

 Your referrals are always a great compliment. 

Halloween Tips

Tonight is the night that kids can enjoy dressing up as their favorite super hero, mythical creature or anything in between. Tonight is when the kids are actually encouraged to try and get candy, and then are usually allowed to eat much more than considered normal. Tonight is also the night that streets will be filled with kids running around, yelling and generally having a great time.

As you venture out into the darkness tonight, be sure to consider the following:

1.       ALWAYS have an adult inspect candy before eating.

2.       Watch out for unfamiliar pets.

3.       Carry a glow stick or flashlight.

4.       Consider wearing reflective tape on costumes.

5.       Only visit well lit houses.

6.       NEVER enter a stranger’s house.

7.       Travel in small groups with at least one adult.

8.       Make sure children know/have emergency contact information.

9.       Choose face paint over masks that can obstruct vision.

10.   Stick to neighborhoods that you are familiar with.

Following these simple recommendations will ensure that you have a wonderful Halloween night.

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN
"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"

Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 

http://erikhart.lnf.com

http://topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Your referrals are always a great compliment. 

Rain Defense

The next few months in Maryland can be wet. Very wet.

Below are a few recommendations to ensure that your home is ready for this annual rainfall that helps make Maryland so green and fills all of our waterways…

1.       If you are comfortable with a ladder and being on your roof, take a look for any missing flashing or roof tiles. This is also a good time to check around any exterior drain/ventilation pipes to ensure that they are sealed.

2.       If you do not have gutter covers this would also be a good time to clean them out, inspect for any damage and ensure that they are functioning properly.

3.       If you are not comfortable with a ladder – get off of it and definitely call someone. This will give you time to check that your downspouts are connected and extended at least three feet away from your foundation. Your home would appreciate it.

4.       Basement…? If you have a rear entrance to your basement, you probably have a drain located outside that door. Make sure this is clear of debris as your basement floor could depend on it.

5.       Still in the basement…? Go give your sump pump a test. This is nothing more than lifting the float to ensure the pump is functioning. This is also a good time to consider your sump pump back up options if you are frequented with power outages.

So take a moment, preferably when it is not pouring down rain, and check these of your list. You do not want this happening…

For more information about the upcoming wet season, check out this link from the National Weather Center:


http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/outlooks/

Until next time, stay on Top of the Market - 


Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales 
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
www.erikhart.lnf.com
www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Outdoor enthusiasts beware...

7650 Bush Avenue is just minutes away from the Chesapeake Bay, great parks and a wonderful golf course. 

Here are a few reasons why 7650 Bush Avenue is a good fit for the outdoor type:

Bird sanctuary at Ft. Smallwood is not to be missed. 

Soft greens at Compass Pointe are often bragged about. 

Great history lessons at Hancock's Resolution.

Summer concert series at Downs Park. 

If you are looking for more information on some Saturday afternoon outdoor activities, please shoot me an email, give me a call or stop by our next Open House:

7650 Bush Avenue, Pasadena, MD 21122

ML#:  AA8070368             List Price: $527,000 Status:  ACTIVE BR:  4 FB:  2 HB: 1 Adv Sub:  PARADISE BEACH
Basement Type:  Full, Rear Entrance, Sump Pump Listing Company:  Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Agent:  Erik Hart Sunday, July 21st, from 11am to 2pm.

Until next time, stay on Top of the Market - 



Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales 
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
www.erikhart.lnf.com
www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com

The GREEN Resource

Are you thinking about taking steps to buy a more energy efficient home? Make some green updates to your home? To save some money on your utility bills?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should take some steps to be more informed about some of the options that are out there. The following is summary of some resources that you can use to help you, and your home, become more environmentally friendly.   

Did you know the cost of green improvements to your home can be significantly offset through federal, state, local, and utility credits and incentives?

 

Federal    

      Home Improvements – Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010

        Efficient Cars – Federal Tax Credit Options

Improvements / Purchases made in 2010 will be claimed on your 2010 taxes (filed by April 15, 2011)

        Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP) – Appliances, New Homes, Retrofits to Existing Homes

        Brochure: Residential Energy Efficiency Incentives (TIAP)

State

The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

US Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy by State

National Association of State Energy Officials – Funding Opportunities and Resources

Local

The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

Energy Star's Appliance Rebate Locator (by zip code)

Utility

The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

Programs and Incentives Information from the Edison Electric Institute

Did you know special financing and funding is available for green home purchase and improvements?

Financing and Funding for Green Homes and Improvements

Energy Efficient Mortgages – from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Energy Efficient Mortgages – from Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)

Green Financing Programs – from myEnergyLoan

Funding Opportunities – directory from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Other Home Guidelines and Resources

Air Quality at Home - from EPA’s Indoor air PLUS Program

Saving Water at Home - from EPA's Water Program

Waste Reduction at Home - from EPA's Waste Program

Find Recycling Centers for Various Home Items – from Earth 911

HOME ENERGY AUDITS:

The first step towards an energy-efficient home is to conduct an energy audit to find out where your home    is losing energy.  They range around $500 depending on the size of your home.  An audit performed by a Certified Rater can include many different tests.  A report is generated with recommendations.  Verification of improvements developed from the report can be a major selling point.  Remember to check with your local utility to see if they offer free or discounted energy audits for their customers.

More information on Home Energy Audits – from ENERGY STAR®

Find a Certified Rater – from RESNET

As an NAR Green Designee, BPI Analyst and overall earth lover, I have advanced training in seeking out, understanding, and marketing homes with green features.  I can help you separate fact from fiction and make informed decisions regarding green real estate. My training in green industry information and resources equips me to provide you with real green knowledge. Feel free to contact me with any questions about greening your life and home.

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cellwww.erikhart.lnf.com
www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Smog Eating Roof Tiles

You've probably heard about all sorts of neat green "toys" that are both smart and functional. More and more practical,dual-purpose items are hitting the market as green building continues to pick up speed. 

One such technology is something that any homeowner can use and benefit from daily. If you're looking to upgrade your roof, take a look at a recent post from the Bits and Bytes blog from the National Association of REALTORS® Center for REALTOR Technology® and see what champion of sustainability, Laura Stukel, has to say about this emerging technology. You can also go a bit deeper into this nifty green technology by watching the 3 minute video.

It's simple really. Let's use items that are healthier for us, more durable for the homes we live in, and more responsible for our communities. These concrete roof tiles do just that. And they have an Energy Star rating for added efficiency, which means less money to the utility companies every month.

Until next time, stay on Top of the Market.

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales 
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
http://www.erikhart.lnf.com/
http://www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com/

Rain Barrel Benefits

Green this, green that...

April always seems to be the month for fellow earth lovers. But did you know that there are many other ways to do something good for the environment besides throwing stuff into the yellow bin, taking a short shower or posting your "Happy Earth Day" posts on Facebook?

Rain barrels are a great example of a way to employ some simple ideas to reduce your overall eco footprint.

                                 (not an ACE advertisement but notice the reused picnic bench)

My main reasons for attempting a rain barrel project:

We were having some standing water issues...now it has been solved.

I was looking for a way to have a water source, other than using our well, for our garden...done.

Always in search of a meaningful project in which the kids can learn about conservation while getting to spend some family time...was accomplished.

Although my initial attempt at the rain barrel was elementary at best, it is serving the purpose for which it was intended. We were also able to construct at a fairly cheap price in comparison to the kits that are out there... and we had some fun doing it.

For more information about rain barrels and some of their benefits on the environment, check out the great article by National Geographic... http://greenliving.nationalgeographic.com/benefits-rain-barrels-2219.html

If you are interested in some more simple ways to be eco friendly, shoot me an email or give me a call.

Until next time, stay on Top of the Market -

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
www.erikhart.lnf.com
www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com

Greener Laundry (No Dyes Required)

There are so many simple tips to help people cut back on water use and energy consumption, most of which result in extra money in your wallet. One simple example is right down the hall, or in the basement. Welcome to your laundry room, where efficiency can reign supreme -- if you have a newer washer and dryer. If your washer and dryer have some age to them - more than ten years to be precise - chances are they are actually costing you over $130 extra each year through your utility bills.

The time has come to consider (or at least become familiar with) more efficient options. While it may be a small investment up front, your new, efficient washer and dryer will pay for themselves in no time! ENERGY STAR rated washing machines use about 1/3 of the water a standard machine would use. Plus, the dryer cycles complete faster. And who doesn't love that?

With a couple of rating options available for such machines, it is important to grasp the numbers and figure out what the precise benefits will be for you and your family. This concise blog post offers great insight into the electricity and water used for traditional machines versus the more efficient, labeled machines. 

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales 
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
http://www.erikhart.lnf.com/
http://www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com/

Buying or working on a "fixer upper"?

Whether you are considering purchasing a home in need of some light updates, major renovations or anything in between, a renovation loan may be something worth thinking about. Although a somewhat quick summary, below you will find some more information about the revovation loan process.

WHY do buyers consider renovation loans?

When considering the following:

Estate/Short Sales/Foreclosures

Older homes needing updates

Expansion/Finishing needs

HOW is the loan structured?

Total Acquisition Price = Purchase Price plus Renovation Costs

WHAT are some of the different types of loan options? 

FHA 203 K (Full or Streamline K), EEM, EIM

* Streamline - Max of 35k,  No Minimum, No contingency reserve, No Structural Repairs

* Full - Minimum 5k, Structural Repairs Ok, HUD Consultant required, Contingency reserve required, One contractor

* EEM/EIM - Energy Efficient/Energy Improvement Mortgage - allows lender to increase buyers income by estimating cost savings from energy efficient improvements

WHO are these types of loans for? 

Buyers with 640 Minimum Credit Score

Buyers who would be subject to normal FHA and Conventional Guidelines

Contractors that are MHIC licensed, have at least 2% reserve fund (cash or credit access) and can have estimated repair completion of 60 days from contract acceptance date

Please let me know if you are interested in getting some more information about a 203k loan.

Erik Hart
REALTOR®, BPI Analyst
Severna Park Sales
Long and Foster Realtors
410-544-4000 Office
443-889-6860 Cell
http://www.erikhart.lnf.com/
http://www.topofthemarket.blogspot.com/