Fort Meade Area Real Estate Search

The Home Buying Process with

The Scott Smolen Team at RE/MAX Leading Edge

 

Buying a home can be a complicated and overwhelming process, but with the expert guidance of Scott Smolen and his Team, it becomes more manageable, seamless, and enjoyable. The Scott Smolen Team strives to help clients focus on the big picture rather than getting bogged down by the processing details which they handle for the Buyers. 

Scott has truly seen just about everything, and there are not many challenges that come along that cannot be solved using his proven combination of business acumen and real estate expertise. Whether this is your first time buying a home or your 10th time, when you place your trust in The Scott Smolen Team, you can rest assured that your home purchase is the hands of one of the top Realtors in Maryland.  Take a look at how the process works when you choose to partner with Scott.

1) Needs Assessment

The home buying process begins with a comprehensive needs assessment, in which we gather information to truly understand what you would like in your next home from size, to amenities, to location, and more.  We encourage full collaboration that allows clients to participate in their own path to home ownership, and we’ll use our knowledge of the industry to create a customized approach for every client based on their needs, their budget, and the current state of the market.

During your initial needs assessment, we will:

  • Analyze your specific home needs and requirements
  • Discuss current market trends
  • Develop the best search plan based on timing and other pertinent factors.

 

2) Property Selection

This is where we begin to put our plan into action, as we gather listings that are a good fit for your needs and work to schedule showings. We’ll perform an exhaustive search using our extensive connections and industry resources, and we are often able to present options that have not been officially listed on the MLS, which gives our buyers a competitive advantage on viewing a hot property.

During this stage, we will:

  • Set up a daily “listing alert” filtered by your specific search criteria, giving you instant notifications of new properties via email, use our professional resources to present you with a combination of listed and unlisted homes.
  • Perform research on new home construction projects that may fit your needs and budget if you are considering new homes
  • Answer any questions you may have about the homes we find, and arrange for interior access to every home you would like to view

 

3) Viewing Properties

We will accompany you on every showing within your search area that has a possibility to become your next home. We are happy to answer questions that come up onsite, and help you select a property that has the features, amenities, location, and neighborhood that you’re looking for, while also adhering to your budget.

Sometimes you may find your dream home on day one. Sometimes it takes many months. The Scott Smolen Team is patient and values open communication, and we will never rush you into deciding. We want you to love your home and smile as you come home to it everyday. 

At this stage of the process, we will:

  • Provide objective information and honest property evaluations
  • Schedule on-site representation for new communities if you are considering new homes
  • Keep you apprised of evolving financial markets, interest rates, and loan opportunities
  • Work around your schedule with possible weekend and evening showings if required
  • We know you have a busy schedule and sometimes you may not be able to see a home in person that you are interested in.  If this happens, we also offer "virtual showings" via Zoom or Skype or another similar service so that you can see a home from anywhere.

 

4) Negotiating

Once you’ve decided to submit an offer for your next home, we will immediately get to work to leverage your power as a buyer to ensure you offer the best contract terms based on the current housing market. We will prepare a comparative market analysis for you to review recent home sales in the area that you are considering for you to review and share with you our thoughts on the market.  Our goal is to give you all of the information possible so you are able to make an informed offer decision moving forward. 

We will:

  • Help you develop your personalized strategy for success.  This includes suggesting the protective contingencies for you as a Buyer including, but not limited to inspections and what to expectthe appraisal process, HOA documents review, possibly requesting a home warranty, and more to include with your offer.   
  • Work with you and your lender to obtain the proper documentation to include with your offer
  • Discuss other terms that can have an impact on your offer such as your Earnest Money Deposit and Down Payment
  • Prepare the offer for you to review
  • Use our digital signature system so that you can review the paperwork and execute it in the privacy of your own home, office, or even on your phone if you prepare.  This maintains the confidentiality of your personal information

There are 3 possible responses once we submit your offer: 

  1. Our offer can be accepted as presented to the Sellers
  2. Our offer can be rejected without a counter offer
  3. Our offer can be rejected and we are presented with a counteroffer from the Sellers

 

We certainly prefer that Sellers accept our offer, however that is not always the case.  In the event that we receive a counter offer from the Sellers, we will review those terms with you and discuss your possible response options.  Some of the terms that are often countered by Sellers can include items such as the offer price, the proposed settlement date, timing of inspections, and other items along those lines.  We will review any counter terms with you and share our thoughts with you regarding a possible response.  You are always the final decision maker; our goal is to help you make the most informed decision possible by sharing the pertinent information.  

 

5) What to Expect Once Your Offer is Accepted

Congratulations, your offer has been accepted!  We immediately go to work processing your file so that you will have a smooth settlement as scheduled.  The first step in this process is to make sure you have a fully executed copy of the contract.  Next, we will send your contract to your lender and your title company of choice if you would like us to do this on your behalf. 

Once everyone involved in the transaction has the contract, then we will move forward with scheduling your inspections.  If you have an inspector that you would like to use, we can work with him / her to schedule access to the property at a time that works for your schedule.  If you do not have an inspector that you would like to work with, we are happy to give you some local referrals for quality inspectors in the area as well.  Once the inspections are completed, we will review the reports with you and determine if any requests should be made to the Sellers based on the results of the inspection.  

Simultaneously, as the inspections are being scheduled and taking place, we will be coordinating with your lender and title company to make sure that everyone is moving forward with their respective jobs.  The lender will likely be in direct contact with you at this time as well as they request forms and documentation for your loan.  We will be communicating with your lender to make sure that the appraisal has been ordered and everything is moving smoothly on their end.  

The title company will be conducting the title search on the property in order to make sure that title is clear and marketable without any encumbrances.  They will reach out to you regarding options relating to title insurance and how you plan to take title to your home as well.  We will be happy to offer you guidance and recommendations if any questions pop up.  

If you are purchasing a home located in a homeowners association or a condominium association, we will be working to obtain the community paperwork for you to review.  You will have 7 days to review the condominium association documents and 5 days to review homeowners association documents by state law in Maryland.  Our goal is to get those documents in your hands as quickly as possible, so that you can make sure there is nothing in them that will prevent you from living in your new home as you expect.  In the unlikely event there is something that you cannot accept, you have the unconditional right to terminate the contract without penalty and receive your Earnest Money Deposit back in full, provided you do so within the contingency period.  

 

6. Settlement and Beyond

Once we have cleared the hurdles above (and any others should they arise), then we need to hear 3 magic words.  Those words are "clear to close".  At this point in time you should know the exact amount of money you will need at settlement.  The title company will usually provide you with wiring instructions in advance of the settlement day and we will make arrangements to attend settlement with you. 

Most settlements usually take about an hour to complete, so you will want to plan accordingly.  Closing documents do need to be signed in person instead of with the secure digital signature programs.  The reason for this is that most lenders and courts require "wet signatures" for the settlement paperwork.  If for some reason you are not able to attend settlement on the date it is scheduled, not to worry.  As long as we know in advance, we can make arrangements for you to sign your documents almost anywhere.  We have had Buyers sign their closing documents when they were not physically in the country on the day of closing, so we certainly can handle this if the need arises. 

We will remain responsive and available as we work through every phase of your home buying journey and beyond.  Our goal is to build lasting relationships everyone we work with that last well beyond closing day.  We consistently operate with the highest standards of customer service and attention to detail. After nearly 25 years in the real estate profession, we have built up a solid network of service providers, contractors, landscapers, and other professionals that serve homeowners to our standard of quality, and we are always here to recommend the best in the business to our happy new homeowners.

Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions at all.  We are happy to answer anything we can for you, or setup a time for a no obligation consultation if you are in the market to buy your next home.  It is always our goal to exceed your expectations. 

Scott Has Recently Helped These Buyers -

$1,350,000
4 Beds 3 Baths MDAA2064676 MLS
Welcome to your dream waterfront retreat! 2022 Kurtz Avenue is located in Paradise Beach, nestled on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. This stunning home offers a harmonious blend of coastal-inspired elegance, spectacular Bay views, and a sense of tranquility with a never-ending horizon. The property boasts a variety of options to enjoy the views and embrace the beauty of the natural surroundings. From the waterside decks to the inviting paver patio, every inch of outdoor space is designed for relaxation and entertainment with a view. Boaters and water enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtfully constructed large pier complex, which offers seating areas and a convenient boat lift. As you approach the entrance, you'll be greeted by a charming covered porch that is accented with a standing seam roof and crafted with low-maintenance materials. Step inside and enjoy the ever-changing panoramic views of the Bay that fill the entire home with an enchanting light. The foyer leads to the great room, with Boardwalk Series porcelain tile floors and expansive hurricane-rated Anderson windows & sliding glass doors. The seating area can take advantage of the gas fireplace in the colder months, while the dining area has those glorious water views for every meal. Step out to the waterside deck for an alfresco meal or BBQ and enjoy the Bay breezes. The gourmet kitchen features custom maple cabinets, a stunning glass tile backsplash, and granite countertops. The kitchen island boasts a gas stove and a dual-temp wine fridge, perfect for culinary enthusiasts and entertainers. And the walk-in pantry provides ample storage for all your needs. Down the hall, you can experience an incredible theater-like experience with integrated 100" 4k projection system and Dolby Atmos surround system. There is a powder room, so the theater room could also serve as an additional bedroom. There's flexibility in the living spaces on each level. Upstairs, the primary bedroom suite provides incredible water views. Imagine waking up to a breathtaking sunrise each morning. This oasis includes an ensuite bath with a dual-sink vanity, an oversized shower, and a soaking tub for the ultimate relaxation. A walk-in closet and a waterside observation balcony complete this luxurious retreat. Adjacent to the primary bedroom, there’s a lovely waterside bedroom, perfect for accommodating family or friends. The spacious third bedroom has more than enough space for an office and an exercise room. Convenience and comfort define this level, including a large hall bathroom and a laundry area. On the top level of the home you'll discover a fantastic bonus space. This space is perfect for hosting overflow guests, creating a playroom, or keeping a private office space with a mesmerizing view of the water. It's worth mentioning that this home was designed with a commercial grade cement piling foundation that showcases the commitment to quality and longevity of this well constructed home. There is a fully fenced yard on the waterside, and the rip-rap on the shoreline gives added protection during storms. It’s an easy commute to Baltimore, Annapolis, or DC. By car, you're just minutes away from restaurants, golf courses, and shopping. And if you prefer to explore by boat, there are many destinations to find from waterside restaurants to quiet anchorages. This remarkable property combines the allure of a luxurious coastal getaway with the convenience of modern amenities, making it a haven you'll never want to leave. Don't miss the opportunity to make this waterfront retreat your own and experience a truly extraordinary lifestyle on the Chesapeake Bay.

2022 Kurtz Avenue, Pasadena

$925,000
6 Beds 7 Baths MDAA455512 MLS
Welcome to a residence like no other in the top-rated community of Wilsons Grove, ideally located in Gambrills, MD. This amenity-rich, wooded neighborhood features an onsite pool with bathhouse, basketball and tennis courts, a playground, and meandering walking trails that skirt the community pond. Additionally, the location allows for easy access to all commuting routes, shopping, and excellent dining choices. In a perfect blend of modern luxury and country charm, this Farmhouse style estate showcases stylish updates. This Fillmore model opens to a beautiful foyer leading to a formal living room, dining room, and office with floor-to-ceiling custom built-ins. The main level also features a very spacious great room off of the expanded kitchen which is perfect for entertaining. Experience immaculate indoor-outdoor entertaining through modern 12ft sliding glass pocket-doors, with roughly 320sqft square feet of covered porch and balcony clad in beautiful Brazilian wood style tile. Upstairs includes a serene owner’s suite with an en-suite 5-piece luxury bath, including a freestanding soaking tub perfect for a restorative experience, two walk-in closets, as well a sitting area overlooking the tree-lined yard. A secondary suite and 3 other generous bedrooms finish out the upper level. The lower level offers a large recreation room accompanied by an in-law suite, complete with bathroom, walk in closet and separate living room. Accompanied by a walkout basement for easy access, nothing has been left out! This home offers top of the line finishes at an amazing price with over 5,100sqft of exquisite craftsmanship laid out to perfection!

838 Sebastian Lane, Gambrills

$775,000
4 Beds 5 Baths MDAA2046582 MLS
Finally! You don’t have to leave anything off your wish list! This property has it all!! Gorgeous remodeled kitchen? Got it! <> Rich, hardwood floors? Got it! <> Four bedrooms – EACH with its own private full bath?! Got it!!! <> Full, finished basement with walkout? Got that too! <> But wait! – There’s so so much more! This stunning 3 level colonial, in excellent condition, features an expansive floor plan with hardwood floors throughout the entire main and upper levels. The gourmet kitchen boasts brand new quartz countertops, brand new Kraus extra-large sink with brand new designer spray arm faucet, newer Whirlpool dishwasher, newer Maytag multi-function “smart” microwave, Newer Samsung “Smart” Oven/Range with Steam Clean, freshly painted, new backsplash and more! The Family room features a wood burning fireplace, a built-in movie projector and screen and multiple doors with custom stain-glass inlays, leading to the entertaining rear yard with its full size, inground pool; large enough and deep enough for a diving board! An inviting surround-patio, an 18 x 9 rear deck, and an exterior built in BBQ and grill with mini-fridge. <> The Primary Owner's Suite features a bright skylight, a huge walk in closet with real-wood-organizer shelving, separate linen closet, custom "retro" ceiling fan, a stunning 5-piece bathroom with oversize soaking tub and inviting glass shower stall with rainfall shower head.. .. Then..... just when you think it couldn’t get any better, ……..the lower level provides a 2nd Kitchen!! A private fourth bedroom with private 4th full bath with designer pebble floor, a lower-level spacious dining/living area and an adjacent exercise room or rec room. creating a lower level “apartment style” unit sure to please every possible extended living arrangement you need! Top it off with a large 2-car garage, extensive landscaping, a welcoming water feature (and the must have “lucky” Japanese Minatare Red Maple), put it all on a cul-de-sac and, YES! you CAN have it all! .........oh, did we mention it's just 5 miles to BWI?! And just 2 miles to Arundel Mills and the LIVE Casino?! Centrally located between both Baltimore and Washington DC your commute is a breeze!

1614 Woodruff Court, Severn

$650,000
4 Beds 4 Baths MDAA2003852 MLS
Piney Orchard 4 bedroom, 3 full & 1 half bathroom detached home with a 2 car garage. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout! This home features a custom gourmet kitchen with gorgeous white birch/ cherry finish soft close cabinets, two lazy Susans, a beautiful built-in pantry & more! Granite counters, deep double sink with an instant hot water faucet, stainless appliances including a built-in convection microwave and wall oven and a built-in beverage refrigerator adjacent to a wine rack. This kitchen, by Star Kitchens of Annapolis, was designed for entertaining! The breakfast nook in the kitchen has custom built-in glass-front cabinetry & a bay window and leads to a renovated half bath and a huge laundry/mud room with lots of storage and access to the garage and the fenced backyard. Off the kitchen is a spacious family room with another bay window as well as French doors that lead to the 10x23 deck(2020). The front entry way opens to a living room/office with a gas fireplace. Across is a formal dining room with direct access to the custom kitchen. The upper level has 4 good-sized bedrooms, all with hardwood floors. The primary bedroom is fantastic. It features a large walk- in cedar closet with an adjustable organizational system and a newly updated (2020) Primary bathroom. The shower is amazing! Additional bath on the upper level features a double vanity and a tiled tub/shower. The basement is finished with a full bathroom, a den/office area, a large flex space with two large windows and a wet bar with a mini fridge! There is also a large unfinished storage/workshop space! Other updates include: Roof replaced in 2018, the furnace replaced in 2007 and the A/C replaced in 2013, irrigation system, tinted windows (American Solar) on the back of the house that improve energy efficiency and reduces glare, heat and sun fading, new front porch and French doors (2014), garage storage with stairs to attic space, and a home security system. Home is freshly power washed. This home is a MUST SEE! Community amenities include: Community Center, exercise room, indoor pool with hot tub, 3 outdoor pools, walking paths, lake, playgrounds & more! Minutes to shopping & restaurants! Minutes to FORT MEADE & the MARC train! Welcome to Piney Orchard!

903 Skyhill Lane, Odenton

$640,000
5 Beds 4 Baths MDAA471544 MLS
Every once in a while you stumble upon the perfect house. Other times you find the perfect homesite. And with any luck, you find the perfect community. Rarely are all of those found in one perfect package. But...You found it and it won’t last long! This meticulously maintained 3,400+ square foot home on a private homesite and a stone's throw to the Magothy River is awaiting its new owner! THE HOME: An absolute turn key, this inviting home will delight you from the moment you pull into the driveway. Gorgeous slate lead walk and stone accented steps welcome you to the covered porch. Upon entry, you will notice the gleaming hardwood floors throughout the first floor and stairs. Every detail of this home has been presented for the most discerning buyer. Warm custom paint, luxury trim detail, spacious rooms, and a sophisticated floor plan are just part of the lure. The impressive kitchen includes granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and rich cider cabinetry. The sundrenched morning room with vaulted ceilings is the perfect place to enjoy your piping hot coffee or evening libation! Each bedroom is generously sized and enjoys its own custom paint palette and neutral carpeting. And the owner's bedroom!!!! Enormous bedroom with cathedral ceilings, walk in closets, and a luxury owner's bathroom to DIE for! Escape in the soaking tub with a glass of wine and a good book. Dual sinks, skylights and cider cabinetry add to the sophistication! The finished basement is an absolute 10! Are you ready for some company? A friendly gathering? Ready to have some fun? How about a custom wet bar, a projection TV system (HUGE projection screen, projector, surround sound speakers and a receiver) and a spacious recreation room!!! THE HOMESITE: After playing inside, head outside to the private, fenced in backyard and enjoy a roaring fire in the custom fire pit, a hot dog on your deck from the built-in grill, or chill out on your irresistible stone patio accented by a gorgeous stone accent wall! Ready to head to the water? Grab a kayak from your kayak rack and take a five minute walk to the beach or a 3 minute walk to one of the 3 community docks and watch a sunrise! THE COMMUNITY: If it's the lifestyle you are looking for, welcome home! Cape St. Claire enjoys three community beaches, access to three community docks, quick access to the Magothy River, Little Magothy River and Deep Creek. The “Cape” also includes a baseball field, basketball courts, 3 beaches, 3 boat ramps, community center, Jog/walk path, picnic area, pier/dock, outdoor pool, tot lots and playground. And it’s location can’t be beat! Minutes to route 50, route 97, downtown Annapolis, great restaurants, a shopping plaza within the community, and more! Pool membership and boat slips are offered at very affordable rates! I told you it was a 10! The perfect house, the perfect homesite, the perfect community! Welcome Home.

1143 Skyway Drive, Annapolis

$620,000
5 Beds 3 Baths MDPG2082740 MLS
Arguably the best offering in highly desirable Canterbury estates, this gorgeous Colonial is sure to impress! This home seems larger than advertised square footage and the house has an impressive 0.41 acres lot. Located on a cul de sac, this stately home is the pride of the neighborhood and has the best backyard oasis that is complete with a Swimming Pool, gazebo, koi pond, deck, and extensive hardscaping! Note the wonderful curb appeal this home offers. Enter into a welcoming foyer that leads to a light-filled main level. The main level hosts a living room, a dining room, a powder room, an office, and a chef’s kitchen with a center island. The kitchen opens to a deck and a private backyard. The upper level hosts 5 bedrooms and 2 full baths. The primary suite is spacious and has a walk-in closet and an attached primary bath. There are four additional bedrooms and a hall bath. There is access to the attic from the bedroom - ample storage! The basement offers additional space for the buyer to customize and finish. The private backyard is sure to impress with an in-ground saltwater pool, a deck off the kitchen with a retractable awning, hardscaping around the pool, a gazebo, and a swing set, manicured yard with extensive landscaping that has been designed by caring homeowners. This home offers a wonderful lifestyle to enjoy relaxing and entertaining with family and friends in your own backyard retreat. This home is freshly painted and has new carpet, updated systems, and solar panels. Backs to forest and close to tot/lot. It is just a short drive away from Six Flags America, Largo Town Center, and the Country Club At Woodmore. The property is also conveniently located near major highways such as Route 50 and I-495, making it a commuter's delight! Priced to sell fast - book your appointment today!

11502 Coralroot Court, Bowie

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