Scott Smolen's Anne Arundel County and Bowie, Md. Real Estate Blog

Fort Meade is the critical hub for National Security Agency Headquarters and cybersecurity efforts. It is at the center of many important issues facing the country today, including privacy, cybersecurity, and foreign interference in U.S. elections. While much of what happens at Fort Meade is shrouded in secrecy, the events outlined above provide a glimpse into the important work being done at this military installation.

Fort Meade is one of the larger military bases in the United States, but it is not the largest. According to the Department of Defense's Base Structure Report from 2020, Fort Meade has a total land area of 13,500 acres and a population of approximately 56,000 military and civilian personnel. This puts it on par with other large military bases, such as Joint Base San Antonio in Texas and Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington.

Compared to some of the largest military bases in the world, Fort Meade is relatively small. For example, the United States Army's Fort Bliss in Texas has a land area of over 1.1 million acres, making it one of the largest military installations in the world. Similarly, Russia's military base in the Arctic, known as Nagurskoye, covers an area of over 14,000 square miles, making it one of the largest military bases in the world.

If you are planning to move into the Fort Meade area and need to find a place to live, just use this link to find out what is available around the base. There are plenty of home options including detached homes, townhouses, and condominiums.  Some of the surrounding cities include Odenton, Severn, Gambrills, Laurel, Savage, Columbia and more.

Fort Meade Area Home Search

Crofton, Maryland is a planned community located in Anne Arundel County, approximately 20 miles south of Baltimore and 10 miles west of Annapolis. It was founded in 1964 by a real estate developer named Hamilton Crawford, who envisioned a community that would offer a high quality of life to its residents. The community was designed with a focus on outdoor recreation, including parks, trails, and sports fields, as well as convenient access to shopping and other desirable amenities.

The development of Crofton had a significant influence on real estate in the area. Prior to its development, the land that now comprises Crofton was primarily rural farmland. The creation of the community brought significant growth and development to the area, attracting new residents and businesses.

Today, Crofton's history as a planned community continues to influence its real estate market. The community's focus on outdoor recreation and amenities remains a major draw for buyers, as does its convenient location between Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington DC. Crofton's strong sense of community and commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents has helped to make it a very desirable place to live.

Crofton Home Search

These are some popular communities in Crofton:

Crofton Park

Chapman Farm

Crofton Meadows

Walden

Cedar Grove

The Knolls

The Tiers

The Greens

Crofton Commons

The Willows

Crofton Colony

Charing Cross

Lake Louise

Crofton Square

Nantucket Mews

Stonehaven Mews

Bancroft

Meadowcroft

Crofton Georgetown

Each community offers a unique set of amenities and features, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any specific questions about these communities, others in the area, or Crofton in general. We are happy to help anyway that we can.

If you are curious about the home statistics for detached homes, townhouses, and condominiums in Gambrills, Md. then you have come to the right place.  There are several charts below that provide a comparison to the data from last year.  These charts are updated on a monthly basis, so you will be able to keep an eye on the trends in the market.

This first chart shows the closed sales in Gambrills month-by-month compared to the same time last year.

This next chart provides the data for the median days on the market for homes in Gambrills.  

This chart provides a look into the Supply and Demand of homes located in the 21054 zip code.  This showing the monthly supply of homes in the city.  This Economists' Article explains what this data means in general.  The lower the number, the more skewed the market is to Sellers.  It is the opposite for a Buyer's market.

This last chart displays the median sales price to original list price ratio for homes located in Gambrills, Maryland over the last year. 

Please feel to to send us a message if you have any questions about any of this data, or if you would like some additional information about the housing market in Gambrills, or some other areas that interest you.  We will be happy to do anything we can to help!

Gambrills, Md. 21054 - Home Report

During my 24 year career as a Realtor, I have seen and heard quite a bit.  Although I have been asked a wide variety of questions, these are the top 5 questions (and answers) that I have gotten over the years from First Time Home Buyers.   

1) What are the current market conditions in the areas that I am looking?

Although we are able to get broad market condition reports online and in the media, real estate is very focused in nature.  The location of homes is the number one factor when you start your search for data.  From there, you focus in on the type of home (detached, townhouse, condo), the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, amount of land, and more.  Since there are wide variety of factors, it is best to ask for a specific market report from a qualified Realtor. 

Here is an example of the type of report that we are able to generate.  This report is for the days on the market for townhomes in Crofton, Md. that are priced between $250,000-$600,000. 

We are able to generate these for all types of criteria for our clients.   

2) What are the best areas to buy a home?

First-time home buyers usually want to know which neighborhoods or areas are the best for buying a home.  Factors such as safety, school districts, accessibility to amenities, and proximity to work are all important to consider.  We can help answer some of these questions and point you in the right direction to find the answers for the questions that we are prohibited by law from answering.  

3) How much should I budget for my home purchase and what type of mortgages are available?

This includes understanding the costs of the down payment, closing costs, and ongoing expenses such as property taxes and home insurance.  You do not need to have a down payment of 20% to buy a home.  There are a wide variety of financing options that include some programs where you will not need any down payment at all and you can finance 100% of your home purchase.  This link will help give you some additional information on the different types of mortgages that are available.  

4) Does Maryland offer any First Time Home Buyer Incentives?

Maryland does offer several different programs for First Time Home Buyers.  These programs include what is listed below as well as some others.  These are just some of the examples of financing options that are available.  There maybe some better options for different individual circumstances.  We can help offer some guidance as to what other options are available, just ask.  

The Maryland Mortgage Program: The Maryland Mortgage Program provides low-interest mortgages and down payment assistance to first-time home buyers who meet certain income and credit requirements.

Maryland Home Credit Program: Maryland Home Credit provides eligible home buyers with a federal tax credit of up to $2,000 per year for the life of their mortgage, which can help lower their overall tax bill. Partner Match Programs: Several local governments and nonprofit organizations in Maryland offer partner match programs that provide matching funds to help first-time home buyers cover the costs of down payments and closing costs.

Community Development Block Grants: Some Maryland counties and cities receive Community Development Block Grants from the federal government, which can be used to provide down payment assistance and other forms of support to first-time home buyers.

It's important to note that each program has its own eligibility requirements, so it's a good idea to research and compare different programs to see which ones you may qualify for.

5) What is the role of a Buyer's agent and how much do I need to pay for representation. 

Sellers pay the Buyer's agent when purchasing a house in Maryland in almost all transactions.  Therefore as a Buyer you are able to be represented without the additional fees to the your Realtor.  Your Buyer agent is able to represent your interests in the transaction.  This includes negotiation on your behalf, advising you about available contingencies that you may want to exercise, attending inspections with you, coordinating with your lender and title company to make sure that all of the paperwork is processed smoothly, and much more.

This link provides you with How the Buying Process Works with Scott

Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code offers an interesting solution for those looking to exchange investment or income-producing properties without taking a hefty tax hit. Also known as "Like-Kind Exchanges," this transaction allows users to defer various taxes by swapping real estate that is akin in nature, such as trading raw land with developed lots and farmland with apartment buildings. Ultimately, they can benefit from not having their proceeds reduced due to unavoidable tax liabilities when making these types of investments.

IRS Section 1031 Information 

The benefits of a 1031 Tax Deferred Exchange

Section 1031 provides an incredible tax benefit for investors by allowing them to rollover their profits from the sale of one property into another, without needing to pay taxes on it. Amazingly, this can be done multiple times - so savvy real estate investors could potentially keep growing their portfolio indefinitely!  Whether the property is owned by an individual or within the structure of another entity like a corporation, all can benefit from this opportunity.

The types of property that can be exchanged in a 1031 Tax Deferred Exchange

Under Section 1031, many investment properties like rental homes, apartment buildings, and commercial real estate can be exchanged without activating capital gains taxes. For example, you can sell a residential rental property and use a 1031 exchange to re-invest those gains into multiple residential homes or a commercial building.  I have had investors sell a commercial building and buy multiple residential rental properties to replace it with.  This can happen when someone sells a business, or something long those lines. 

This 1031 exchange doesn't apply to primary residences or vacation homes where personal use has been significant as they have different tax codes governing them.  Capital Gains Tax on Home Sales

Who prepares a 1031 Exchange?

To complete a 1031 exchange properly, qualified intermediaries (QIs) are necessary to ensure funds from the relinquished property never come into contact with the investor. There is no single regulatory body governing QI qualifications; however, doing your own research and consulting reputable organizations like The Federation of Exchange Accommodators can help you find experienced professionals who will be able to guide you through this complex transaction.  We have several qualified intermediaries that we can recommend for you as well.  

Link for Federation of Exchange Accommodators 

How to complete a 1031 Tax Deferred Exchange

Selling property via a 1031 Exchange is an effective way of deferring capital gains taxes. The first step in this process is selecting a Realtor who has experience dealing with 1031 exchanges.  These transactions are more complicated than a regular sale and it is essential to have an experienced Realtor who understands what needs to be done with both the sale contract as well as the purchase contract (s). 

As soon as you settle on your sale asset, the exchange process officially begins -- and it's all hands on deck! This includes assigning a Qualified Intermediary (QI) who will help ensure that both settlement timelines are met: 45-days post sale date & 180-day window following receipt of funds from title company. Once these parameters have been satisfied, then you can move forward with identifying/acquiring your "like kind" replacement going into another purchase contract accordingly so that QI may also communicate directly with Title Company for said new acquisition.   

What is the timeline for a 1031 Exchange?

Property swaps have come a long way since the days of simple two-person exchanges. Now, most transactions fall into either delayed exchange, three-party exchange, or Starker Exchange categories to maximize success and avoid unwieldy searches for property matches across vast networks. To complete one of these complex transactions within tax regulations timelines the sale must be identified in writing by day 45 with closing on new properties falling at 180 days after original purchase was completed.

Although 1031 tax deferred exchanges are complicated and there are additional moving pieces, they offer some great benefits.  When these exchanges are done correctly, the process should go smoothly and be very efficient.  Make sure you have the best team possible working on your behalf, if you decide to take advantage of a 1031 Exchange. 

The information provided here is for your general informational purposes.  All information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.  It is recommended that you consult your personal tax professional in advance of making a decision.

A mere 19 miles away from bustling Baltimore and 15 miles from the state capital of Annapolis, you'll find Odenton, Maryland - a residential suburb that has grown into so much more. This growing city is unparalleled in its population growth compared to most American cities and serves as an ideal place for residence, business, transportation, and industry due to its location within West Anne Arundel County.

With public access at the MARC Penn Line station nearby Fort George G. Meade military base and NSA headquarters located close by too, it's no wonder why this quaint community continues to flourish with possibilities! Odenton is a stunning place to call home that offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers. From fishing and hunting opportunities to leisurely hiking trails, Patuxent Research Refuge adjacent to the community provides an abundance of ways to explore your natural surroundings. With so much on offer, there's no excuse not to fall in love with all that Odenton has to offer!

If you're close to Crain Highway and in the Odenton, Maryland area, GORC Park is a great place for outdoor activities. Picnic areas, fields, and sports courts are plentiful here as well as a paved trail perfect for joggers who want to get some fresh air! But if that’s not enough physical activity for your heart's content then check out Piney Orchard Ice Arena -the former practice home of Washington Capitals- which offers ice skating either just for fun or competitively.

Positioned along the Penn Line, Odenton's MARC station is immensely popular due to its proximity to Washington D.C., and Annapolis. Consequently, housing prices in Odenton can be slightly lower than those of other cities while still providing convenient commuting access via train for work-seekers ranging from hourly employees up to senators! Odenton, Maryland is an ideal place for those who like to take trips and explore. With the Odenton Station nearby and Interstate 97 accessible via Patuxent Freeway, a visit to Baltimore can be made in no time - even on days with heavy traffic!

For those looking for more of an adventure, Crain Highway provides easy access to all that Washington D.C. has to offer. And if you want something far away from home? BWI Airport lies just 8 miles from your doorstep! If you’re looking for a change of scenery, Odenton presents an array of housing options to choose from. From the condos and single-family homes in Piney Orchard to duplexes, apartments, and detached homes in Seven Oaks, there is something suitable for everyone. If that isn't enough, Odenton Town Center, Chapel Grove, or Maple Ridge are among some more possibilities among all the neighborhoods this charming town has to offer!

If you’re ready to sell your home, the first step is to get familiar with real estate and real estate agents. A real estate agent can provide invaluable assistance when it comes to understanding the real estate market in your area and helping you accurately price your home for sale. They can also provide access to resources such as a comparative market analysis, marketing materials, and other services that will help make selling your house easier.

Before you begin your search for a real estate agent, take the time to do some research and ensure that they have experience in selling homes within the area. Vetting their history of successful home sales will put your mind at ease! You can also go online and check their reviews to see what past clients have thought of their service.

It’s also important at the beginning of the home selling process to understand the real estate market and your home's value. Your real estate agent will have access to the latest real estate data, including local market in home prices to help you come up with the fair market value of your home. Make sure you ask them questions about any changes they have seen in the market as well as what factors could affect your home’s value when you go to list it for sale.

Having the help of a knowledgeable real estate agent is essential to getting top dollar for your house. With their expertise and advice guiding you, you'll feel confident in navigating through all stages of the real estate transaction - from initial listing to closing-day paperwork. An experienced real estate agent can provide invaluable insights throughout the entire process on how best to market and position your property so that it will attract plenty of interested buyers and secure an optimal sale price!

Home Selling Tips

When you're shopping for a mortgage, its important to find the loan that best suits your needs.  The first step is to determine the loan terms.  Do you want a shorter term with larger monthly payments or a longer loan with smaller monthly payments?  There are pro's and con's to both options, so it's important to consider what will work best for your budget, lifestyle, and overall financial goals. 

Part of this process will be determining what type of loan will work best for you.  There are three main types of loans that are available to consumers.  They are conventional, FHA, and VA.  There are also other types of loans available which include incentives for first time Buyers, zip code driven programs, and more.  

Once you have decided on the loan term, the next step is to compare the monthly payments.  This is where the process can get a little confusing at times.  Different lenders will quote different interest rates and terms.  It is very important to make sure that you are comparing apples to apples when you are reviewing your options.  This means taking into account not only the interest rate but also origination fees, closing costs, or other fees that may be associated with the loans.  The best way to be able to make an accurate comparison is to ask the lenders to provide Good Faith Estimates for you to look over.

It is important to look at the closing costs associated with the mortgage loans to get an accurate picture of your total costs.  Make sure you know exactly what fees and taxes make up the closing costs before deciding on your mortgage. 

Take the time to consider the tax advantages of a mortgage.  Mortgages are typically tax deductible which can help reduce your monthly payments and save you money in the long run.  These tax advantages should also be compared to what you might already be paying in rent.  Since rent is normally not deductible on taxes, the difference can be significant.  Therefore, when shopping for a mortgage, make sure to ask about any potential deductions.  

Selecting the right mortgage is an important decision, but one that can save you money over time if done correctly.  It is imperative to do your research, compare different programs and lenders and find the best option for your needs.  Please feel free to reach out to us at anytime if you have any questions at all.  We also are happy to refer to reputable local lenders that we have been working with for years if you are interested as well.

Piney Orchard, the largest planned community in Anne Arundel County, Maryland is a vibrant residential hub established during the early 1990's. It houses over 4,000 homes of varied types such as single-family dwellings, townhomes and condominiums along with senior living apartments designed to meet every lifestyle need.

Piney Orchard is a peaceful community with tree-lined lots, multiple home options and stunning natural surroundings - from lakes to rivers to acres of preserved land. Regardless of your preference, there's something for everyone in this picturesque neighborhood.

Located just minutes from Ft. Meade and the MARC commuter train, this neighborhood offers easy access to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and more! The Piney Orchard Marketplace is right around the corner making grocery shopping simple; moreover there are playgrounds for your kids, GORC Park with athletic fields for sports enthusiasts, WB&A trail with plenty of other walking and cycling trails in close proximity – everything you could want in a community!

Find out more about the Piney Orchard Lifestyle below. 👇

Piney Orchard Community - Odenton, Md. 21113

If you're thinking of making Odenton, Maryland your home, you won't be disappointed. Odenton is a census-designated place located in Anne Arundel County. Named after former Governor Oden Bowie, Odenton has plenty to offer its residents.

Odenton's convenient location puts it close to many major attractions, including the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and Fort Meade Army Base. The nearby MARC train station makes commuting into Washington D.C., Annapolis, and other cities a breeze. Odenton also boasts access to numerous parks and recreational centers such as Odenton Regional Park and Piney Orchard Nature Preserve for outdoor lovers.

The area offers a variety of shopping and dining options, from Odenton Town Center’s retail stores to delicious restaurants. Odenton is home to Odenton Station Shopping Center, Odenton Towne Centre, Odenton Plaza Shopping Center, and the Odenton Shopping Center. You are also minutes away from the new Waugh Chapel Shopping Center!

The city also has a growing economy with employment opportunities in many industries such as aerospace, defense contract companies, government agencies, and more. Commuting to work is easy being centrally located between Baltimore and Annapolis, plus access to the commuter train at the MARC Station. Odenton is served by Anne Arundel County Public Schools which are well-respected throughout the region.

Odenton offers something for everyone: plenty of shopping and dining opportunities; easy access to recreation areas; employment prospects; and good schools. If you're looking for a place to call home that provides all these amenities in one convenient location, Odenton is the place for you.

Making Odenton your home is an experience that will fill you with joy and remain one of your fondest memories for years to come. You'll never regret giving this place a chance!

Odenton's is also great for families with young children looking to take advantage of the many quality educational opportunities Anne Arundel County provides. Odenton Elementary School, Piney Orchard Elementary School, and Waugh Chapel Elementary School are all located within Odenton city limits. Odenton also offers private education options such as St. Joseph Catholic School and Heritage Montessori School if desired. Odenton has something for everyone when it comes to education!

Come explore Odenton and find out why so many are choosing to call it home. Odenton's friendly atmosphere, convenient location, and diverse culture make it the perfect place to settle down. So start looking for your new Odenton home today! You won't regret it. 👇

Odenton Real Estate