I never realized that there were so many golf courses located in Southern Maryland and neighboring counties until I put together this list of links. Please let me know if I am missing any golf courses in SOMD, including PG County, AA County, Charles County, Saint Mary’s County and Calvert County, MD and I will add them. And, of course, if you are looking to purchase or sell real estate in Southern Maryland, including golf course homes, please give me a call at 301-748-8698 or visit my website at http://www.blogger.com/ . I am always happy to help!

Charles County:
Hawthorne Country Club
Potomac Ridge Golf
Swan Point Yacht & Country Club
White Plains Park & Golf Course

Saint Mary’s County:
Breton Bay Golf & Country Club
Cedar Point Golf Club
Wicomico Shores Golf Course

Calvert County:
Chesapeake Hills Golf Club
Mellomar Golf Park
Twin Shields Golf Club

Anne Arundel County:
Annapolis Golf Club (no link found)
Bay Hills Golf Club
Chartwell Golf & Country Club
Courses at Fort Meade
Crofton Country Club (no link found)
Eisenhower Golf Course
Heritage Harbor Golf Club
Night Hawk Golf Center
Old South Country Club
Severna Park Golf Center
Sherwood Forest Golf Course
South River
United States Naval Academy Golf Club
Walden Golf Club

Prince George’s County:
Bowie Golf & Country Club
Country Club at Woodmore
Courses at Andrews AFB (no link found)
Cross Creek Golf Club
Enterprise Golf Course
Glenn Dale Golf Club
Gunpowder Golf Course
Henson Creek Golf Course
Kentland Golf Training Center in Landover
Lake Arbor Golf Club
Lake Presidential
Marlboro Golf Club
Marlton Golf Club
National Golf Club – Tantallon
Oak Creek Club
Paint Branch Golf Complex
Patuxent Greens Country Club
Robin Dale Golf & Country Club (no link found)
University of Maryland Golf Course _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Marie Lally, Realtor
O'Brien Realty
Direct: 301-748-8698 (Best Number to Reach Me!)
Office: 301-884-7400
marie@marielally.com
http://realtor-ramblings.blogspot.com/ - VISIT MY WEBSITE
http://search.marielally.com/ - SEARCH FOR HOMES

Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services in Southern Maryland. Serving homebuyers and sellers in St. Mary's County, Charles County, Calvert County and PG County, MD.

A Basic Tool Kit for General Home Repairs, Improvements and Basic Decorating

After years of frustration of hammering nails in with the heel of my shoe and installing screws with a butter knife, I decided it was time to put together a basic tool kit to handle basic home repairs, to aid in installing curtain rods, hanging pictures, removing globes on light fixtures, general crafts, etc.  Having the right tools makes basic repairs easy.

Here is what I have in my toolbox (actually in my recycled 5 gallon bucket):

Hammer – a medium weight hammer, with a claw end.  This sure beats using the heal of a shoe!  The claw end makes removing nails easy.

Screwdrivers – I have various sizes of screwdrivers, both flat end and Phillips-end.  You can buy a kit from Sears with various sizes and types.

Cordless Drill – I never realized how much I needed this tool!  This is a must-have for hanging mini-blinds, window shades and anything else that needs pre-drilling!

Measuring Tape – I have gone through several of these.  Don’t waste your money on cheap measuring tapes.  Better to go with a name brand like Stanley in atleast a 25’ length.

Pliers -  I have a few different pliers but have found that the needle-nose pliers have been the most useful for my purposes.  You can get a kit with different types of pliers, wrenches and gripping tools at Sears or your home improvement store.

Retractable Utility Knife – This is a cheap and great invention!  From opening boxes cutting drywall, this is a must have item in your basic tool kit.  And when the blade is dull, just replace it!

Level – I have a 4 foot level as well as a laser level.  The laser level is among my favorite tools for hanging pictures! 

Putty Knife – I use this for spackling nail holes in walls, repairing drywall where the door knob has hit the drywall, etc.

Sanding Block -  I am partial to sanding blocks rather than sand paper…they are great for smoothing drywall repairs, sanding door edges if they are rubbing or getting stuck in the jamb, etc. 

Hardware – it is a good idea to keep a variety of screws, nails, bolts, fasteners, picture hangers, etc on hand.  These items are definitely the most difficult for me to keep organized...if you have any suggestions, please let me know!

Miscellaneous – Spackle, painters tape, Goof Off, white glue, electrical tape

Safety – Although I do not have these items currently, I will be adding them to my list...Safety glasses, dust masks, leather gloves and a first aid kit

Other Nice to Have Items:  I purchased a few other items over the years that have served me well… I purchased a Dremel, a Mouse Sander, a Roto-Zip and an electic stapler.  None of these are really necessary, but I have used them to aid in refinishing furniture, re-upholstering a chair, making a fabric covered cornice for a window, etc.

_______________________________________________________

Marie Lally

O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Best Number to Reach Me!)

Office: 301-884-7400

marie@marielally.com

http://www.marielally.com - VISIT MY WEBSITE

http://search.marielally.com - SEARCH FOR HOMES

Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services in Southern Maryland.  Serving homebuyers and sellers in St. Mary's County, Charles County, Calvert County and PG County, MD.

Understanding Bats and Rabies...Bat-Proofing Your Home

One day last week when I went to the office, all the talk was about a little bat that somehow got in the office and was hanging from one of the ceiling tiles.  One of our brave agents promptly scooped the bat up in a plastic container and put the container into the dumpster.  Well, having not witnessed this capture, and being the animal lover that I am, I had to go look in the dumpster to make sure that the container was not sealed up, so that this little invader could find his/her way to safety outdoors.  Sure enough, the little bat was free, inside the dumpster (it even posed for a nice photo (courtesy of my manager)).  I had never seen a bat close up and was surprised about how tiny and cute it was.  I believe, after looking on-line, that this variety is a "brown bat".

Later that day, I heard more talk about bats being in my daughter's friend's chimney!  So, with that, I gathered some information to educate myself about bat-proofing, in case one of these cute, but dirty, little creatures might want to take up residency in my home.  For more information, contact your county health department.

First, and most importantly, it is important to know that most of the recent human rabies cases in the US have been caused by rabies virus from bats.  If you ever get bitten by a bat (even if it does not break the skin), you need to seek medical advice immediately.  The bat should be captured and sent to a laboratory for rabies testing.  The same holds true if your pet has come in contact with a bat, and it is important to keep pet vaccinations current.

Bat-Proofing: 

Carefully examine your home for holes that might allow bats entry into your living quarters.  Any openings larger than a quarter-inch by half-inch should be caulked.  Use window screens, chimney caps and draft guards beneath doors to attics, fill electrical and plumbing holes with steel wool or caulking and ensure that all outside doors close tightly.

If you have bats roosting in your attic, observe where they exit at dusk and cover the exterior entry points by hanging clear plastic or bird netting loosely over these areas.  Adult bats will be able to escape by crawling out from behind the loosely hung barrier and will not be able to re-enter.  During summer months (May through August), however, young bats may not yet be able to fly, so if you exclude the adult bats, the young may be trapped inside and die or find their way into living quarters.  This is why fall and winter are the best times to bat-proof your home.

Common bat entry points include the chimney, through vents, behind shutters, under eaves, under siding and under shingles.

If a bat makes it's way into your home, it is best to contact animal control for help in removal of the bat, just for safety's sake.  If no professional help is available, and there is no other choice but to take matters into your own hands, be extremely careful.  It is recommended that you wear leather gloves and you will also need a coffee can or other container, a piece of cardboard and tape.  When the bat lands, approach it slowly.  While wearing the gloves, place the coffee can over the bat.  Slide the cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside.  Tape the cardboard to the can securely and punch small holes in the cardboard so the bat can breath.  It is recommended to contact your health department or animal control for rabies testing.  Another option is to confine the bat to a room with a window...open the window and the bat will probably leave on its own.

Contrary to many people's thoughts about bats, they are not blind.  They are not rodents and are not birds.  They will not suck your blood and most do not have rabies.  Although bats are not desirable in our homes, they are beneficial to our ecosystem.  They are major predators of night flying insects.  These insects are agricultural pests and cost farmers billions of dollars annually.  Seed dispersal and pollination by bats are vital to rain forest survival.  Studies of bats have contributed to medical advances, including development of navigational aids for the blind. 

 For more information about bats, rabies and other potential health hazards, contact your local health department or public health agency. 

_______________________________________________________

Marie Lally

O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Best Number to Reach Me!)

Office: 301-884-7400

marie@marielally.com

http://www.marielally.com - VISIT MY WEBSITE

http://search.marielally.com - SEARCH FOR HOMES

Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services in Southern Maryland.  Serving homebuyers and sellers in St. Mary's County, Charles County, Calvert County and PG County, MD.

 

ARTSFEST! September 19th & 20th - Annemarie Garden in Solomons, Maryland

Mark your calendar for the 2009 Artsfest at Annmarie Garden in Solomons, Maryland!

Saturday & Sunday

September 19^th & 20^th

10am to 5pm

This is an event that I look forward to every year!  Local artists as well as others from across the United States come to display and sell their beautiful art.  From hand-forged ironwork to elegant fine paintings or unreal photography, and hand-crafted jewelry to gorgeous pottery or woodworking, you will find something that peaks your interest!  There is also music and dance performances, local food and drink, and a just a unique and wonderful atmosphere that you are sure to enjoy.

You will either leave the artsfest with beautiful, unique, items in hand, or completely inspired to go home and create something of your own….don’t miss this great art show!

Marie Lally, Realtor

O’Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search Homes: http://search.marielally.com

Testimonials: http://testimonials.marielally.com

Search accurate and up-to-date real estate listings for homes for sale, rentals, commercial properties, land, building lots, new homes and more!  Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services for buyers and sellers in Southern Maryland.  Serving Charles County, Saint Mary's County and Calvert County, MD.

Just When You Thought You Have Seen It All...Here is an iPod Stereo Dock and TP Holder

I have to share this because it struck me as very funny...

My daughter's birthday is coming up and I have been searching for the perfect gift.  Since she is into her music and always listening to her iPod, I thought that she could possibly use a new set of speakers for her iPod or some other related accessories.  I searched amazon.com for speaker systems and there are tons to choose from!  But, just when I thought I had seen it all, there was an iPod stereo dock and speaker system built into a TP holder... I just wonder what they will think of next!  I am not so sure that I will be buying this interesting home accessory, however, the product has good consumer ratings - if you need a little laugh, read the reviews...hilarious! 

 

 

Plush, Saxony, Berber, Loop, Frieze? Selecting Carpet To Fit Your Lifestyle

When I purchased my home it had 1970s carpeting throughout...I had harvest gold sculptured carpet on my stairs, living room and dining room...and black, red and burnt orange shag in my family room.  The carpeting, along with my gold flocked wallpaper and styro-wood looking beams, were the first tear-outs in my house.  Deciding on what to replace the carpet with was a tough decision - I wanted something that would stand the test of time a little better than the stuff I was ripping out.... so, like so many homeowners, I had to decide on flooring that best suited my lifestyle, style and budget.  Here is a very basic run-down on carpet:

Cut Pile:  This is the most commonly used carpet - the durability is considered average.  Cut pile comes in a variety of styles like saxony, plush, texture and frieze - the differences in creating these carpets are in the way the pile is twisted, sheared and heat set.  The more dense and twisted the pile is, the more durable the carpet will be.  Saxony has tightly twisted cut piles that stands straight up... saxony carpet shows footprints and vacuum marks.  Plush carpeting is lightly twisted and is very soft - it also shows every footprint and vacuum mark  Textured carpets disguise footprints and do not show distinctive vacuum marks - it has tightly twisted and crimped cut pile but is softer to the touch than saxony - it tends to look two-toned.  Frieze is a highly twisted cut pile carpet - the short fibers curl in different directions and the carpet virtually shows no footprints or vacuum marks...I like frieze, but a lot of people think it is nothing more than shag...

Cut and Loop Pile:  Again, this is a medium durability carpet.  It combines loops and cut pile, all in one carpet.  Often, it appears like there is a carved difinition, since the layout of the cut pile and loops creates a pattern, variety of textures & sculpted effects..  This carpet is great for hiding a little bit of dirt... it shows no footprints or vacuum marks, and tends to come in multicolors rather than solid.

Level Loop Pile:  Stong, level and even loops make this a great choice for high traffic areas - commercial loop carpet has short, densely packed loops and is more durable and easy to clean.  Footprints or vacuum marks are not visible.  Berber has a loop pile and is very durable - berber's pile tends to have thicker yarns...you must be careful, however, about snags - you can easily pull out the carpet strands by catching a snag in the vacuum.  Berber carpet comes in wool, olefin and nylon fibers, or even a blend of these fibers.

Multi-Level Loop Pile:  These are the new style rugs that seem to be very trendy with all-over patterns. The multi-level loop creates the carpet patterns - some random, other very intentional geometric patterns.  It is recommended for higher traffic areas, just like level loop pile, however, multi-level loop pile can hold more dirt than level loop pile carpets.  Just like level loop pile, it can come in solids and multicolors.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For All Your Real Estate Needs!

Marie Lally / O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Best to Call me Direct!)

Office; 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search the MLS: http://search.marielally.com

marie@marielally.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

 

 

 

Before You Paint That Room, Consider the Psychology of Color...

There are tons of studies out there on how color affects your moods…I am only thinking of this now since I have just bought paint for my master bedroom and master bath – I probably should have considered the “psychology of color” first, as I think I chose incorrectly for what is supposed to be a restful space… So, before you pick up the paint brush and start painting the house, consider the following...

According to the experts…

RED (my personal favorite): This is the strongest of all colors and is a stimulating color.  It expresses feelings of excitement, high energy, vibrancy and warmth.  Apparently it can increase your blood pressure, the rate of your pulse and your breathing.  Red encourages action and confidence and increases enthusiasm.

GREEN:  Natures neutral and considered to be a soothing color.  …represents nature, relaxation and growth. Green is the most popular decorating color, is easiest on the eyes and can, apparently, improve vision.  Green alleviates depression, nervousness and anxiety and offers a sense of renewal, self-control and harmony.

PINK:  Pink is more tranquilizing of a color.  It points to trustworthiness, sweetness, happiness and youth.

BLUE: Blue creates the opposite reaction as red.  Blue is peaceful, tranquil, calming and restful.  Some shades of blue can also be cold and depressing.  They say that blue aids intuition.

YELLOW: Yellow represents happiness and optimism.  It enhances concentration and even speeds your metabolism.  They say that babies cry more in yellow rooms and people, in general, lose their tempers most often in a yellow room.  Yellow supposedly encourages communication and activates memory.

BROWN:  I find conflicting thoughts about the color brown…One source says that it denotes contentment and comfort…another says it is sad and wistful.    Brown is the color of the earth and represents a connection with the earth.  Supposedly, brown brings feelings of wholesomeness and offers a sense of orderliness.

PURPLE:  Purple implies nobility, dignity, luxury and royalty…purple is a color that conveys wealth and sophistication.  Purple also, supposedly, encourages creativity, offers a sense of spirituality and is uplifting, yet calming to the mind and nerves.

ORANGE: Orange gives the feelings of spirit, warmth, comfort and action.  It stimulates the appetite and encourages socialization.

BLACK: Black depicts boldness, authority, strength and power…yet it also implies elegance, sophistication and timelessness.  Black may evoke feelings of restful emptiness or  feeling inconspicuous.

WHITE:  White symbolizes innocence and purity.  It also implies cleanliness, spaciousness and can create a feeling of quiet luxury.  White aids mental clarity, encourages us to clear clutter or obstacles, and enables fresh beginnings.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

For All Your Southern Maryland Real Estate Needs!

Marie Lally / O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best to Call Me Direct!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search for Homes: http://search.marielally.com

email: marie@marielally.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Lost! Why Sellers Should Make Themselves Scarce During a Showing

I showed several properties today in Southern Maryland.  A few sellers were home when we arrived.  As always, I say hello and hand the seller my business card, introducing myself as the buyer's agent.  Today, these sellers wanted to stay on our heels and follow my clients and me through their properties rather than making themselves scarce.  And, as usual, it affected the showings in a negative way.

First off, a seller on the heels of a buyer makes for a very uncomfortable showing.  The buyers cannot communicate freely, they cannot move at their own pace, they are inhibited by the seller's presence.  You know the feeling - like being followed and watched when shopping in a retail store - but worse - you are shopping for the largest purchase of your life, not a dime-store trinket.  

Secondly, a seller typically talks too much - unprompted talk, at that.  For example, today, the sellers on our heels rambled on and on and, in so many words, implied that they were in financial distress... informed us that a large portion of their property was full of useless ravines... informed us of their marital problems and desperation to sell... etc, all unprompted and freely shared negative information about their home and personal situation.  I have heard sellers, in the past, inform the buyers of the price they would accept on their home or how much they owe on their property...about the nasty neighbor that lives next door...about the band-aid, shoddy, repairs they made...that the bedrooms are just too small...that the same house down the street is on the market for $$$ less than their home...etc.

Everyone can understand that a seller wants their home to sell - that is why it is listed for sale - but their presence at a showing will do more harm than good, regardless of their intention.  If the buyers thought the land was beautiful, why put it in their mind that it is useless ravines? If the buyers felt that the bedroom sizes were ample, a seller's statement that they are "just too small" presents doubt in the buyer's mind.  It is best to allow the buyer's agent to show the property and allow the potential buyers to look, examine, dream and decide if the home is the home for them.  So, sellers, make yourself scarce and let your Realtor do their job of communicating with the buyer's agent to obtain feedback and to answer questions...it is, without a doubt, the better option.

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For All Your Real Estate Needs, Call Your Southern Maryland Realtor!

Marie Lally / O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best to Call Direct!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search for Homes: http://search.marielally.com

email: marie@marielally.com

Serving Charles County, St. Mary's County and Calvert County, MD

Free Street Level / Community Crime Reports Available On-Line

Check out this website to see if crime reports are available for your community... this is a very informative website that allows law enforcement agencies to share crime data with the public, in near real-time.  It allows the public to access their neighborhoods, free of charge, and make informed decisions concerning safety.

Go to http://www.crimereports.com and enter an address.  A map comes up and displays nearby crime report information, by block, for 15 general crime types, and 21 subcategories of crime, including assault, breaking & entering, homicide, property crime, robbery, sex offense, theft and many other categories. You may specify a period of time, specific categories to be displayed, and more on the map...the map can be zoomed in and out, from street level to community.  Law enforcement agencies determine what crimes and which details of the crimes they want released to the public.  Victim identification is removed and information is provided at "block level" to protect victims' identities. 

The website's crime reporting currently covers about 25% of the US population through participation of about 400 law enforcement agencies.  Southern Maryland law enforcement provides their information and it seems very up-to-date from what I have viewed.  Per the website, most law enforcement agencies typically update their data daily.

This website is free to the public.  You can even set up automatic alerts for crime reports to be delivered right to your inbox, daily, weekly or monthly.  All you need is a valid address and an email address.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For All Your Real Estate Needs, Call Your Southern Maryland Realtor!

Marie Lally / O'Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best to Call Direct!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search for Homes: http://search.marielally.com

email: marie@marielally.com

 

 

Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Home Improvements

There are many tax credits available pertaining to energy efficiency...they range from home improvements and residential renewable energy to automobiles. You can check out the details and see a complete summary of home energy efficiency improvements that qualify for tax credits by visiting http://www.energystar.gov/. 

The basics of the Home Energy Efficiency Improvement Tax Credit are as follows:

Date of Improvement:  Must be "placed in service" starting January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010. 

Type of Improvements: energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs and heating and cooling equipment in exisiting homes... Click Here for more details of the Federal requirements.

Tax Credit: 30% of the cost, up to $1,500 max.

Click Here for Maryland's Incentives.Policies for Renewables and Efficiency

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Residential renewable energy tax credits are for consumers who install solar energy systems (including water heating and electric systems), small wind systems, geothermal heat pumps and residential fuel cell and microturbine systems.  A 30% tax credit is available for systems placed in service before December 31, 2016, with apparently no maximum cap.

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Automobile Tax Credits are for hybrid gas-electric and alternatice fuel vehicles placed in service between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2010.  The tax credit is based on the fuel economy, vehicle weight and whether the tax credit is still applicable...the credit will be phased out for each manufacturer once the company has sold 60,000 eligible vehicles by gradually reducing the tax credit over the course of fifteen months.  Plug-In Electric Vehicles will also qualify for a tax credit starting January 1, 2010, ranging from $2500-$7500, depending on battery capacity.  Plug-In Hybrid Conversion Kits for hybrid vehicle owners are eligible for a 10% credit, capped at $4000 through 2011.  Visit http://www.irs.gov/ for more details, as the IRS will determine final tax credit amounts.

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A summary of energy tax incentives can be seen in the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. 

Businesses, utilities and governments are also eligible for tax credits.

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For All Your Real Estate Needs....

Marie Lally / O'Brien Realty

Website:  http://www.marielally.com

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best To Call Me Direct!)

Office: 301-884-7400

email: marie@marielally.com

Fall Home Checklist - Easy Fall Maintenance Items / Winterizing Your Home

With fall quickly approaching, it is time to start winterizing your home and performing those autumn maintenance items.  Here is a simple checklist:

• Outside furniture – clean and store, or cover, furniture, grills, etc.  Ensure there is no standing water that can freeze and damage hoses, fountains, sprinklers, etc.


• Exterior Caulking – Inspect and recaulk windows and doors, if needed.


• Exterior Doors – Inspect weather-strip to ensure there is a tight fit.  Install new weather-strip and door sweeps, if necessary.


• Gutters and Downspouts – Ensure everything is clear of debris.  Clogged gutters can lead to moisture damage.


• Chimneys and Flues – Hire a chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney for safety reasons.


• Exterior Paint – Touch up paint on rails, decks, exterior trim, etc – Well painted surfaces deter moisture and water damage.  It is also a great time to seal and protect decks and fences.


• HVAC – Have your HVAC serviced and inspected for safe and efficientoperation.  Install clean air filters / Have air ducts cleaned.  Install a set-back, programmable, thermostat to save money on heating costs.


• Plumbing – Ensure that all pipes are well insulated to avoid freezing during the winter months.


• Windows – Remove window screens and store them away for winter. 


• Smoke Detectors – replace batteries and ensure proper operation


• Carbon Monoxide Detector – Purchase or ensure carbon monoxide detector is working properly


• Basement – Ensure there are no leaks or cracks – Repair as necessary


• Sump Pump – test and clean sump pump to ensure proper operation

Marie Lally, Realtor

O’Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search Homes: http://search.marielally.com

Testimonials: http://testimonials.marielally.com

Search accurate and up-to-date real estate listings for homes for sale, rentals, commercial properties, land, building lots, new homes and more!  Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services for buyers and sellers in Southern Maryland.  Serving Charles County, Saint Mary's County and Calvert County, MD.

As Fall Approaches, Here is a Simple Garden Checklist to Prepare for Autumn and Winter Months

School starts this week in Southern Maryland – it is crazy that the summer has gone by so quickly!  With the start of school, thoughts of autumn come to mind.  And, with autumn, comes the thought of preparing your home and garden for the winter months.

Concerning your garden, here is a simple checklist:

• Rake leaves from yard and flower beds. Leaves can often cause plant diseases in roses and other plants….so clean out the debris


• Mulch your flower beds to protect plants and make weeding easier in the spring


• Trim weak or dead limbs on bushes, especially roses and crape myrtles


• Separate crowded bulbs and perennials – plant in new locations


• Plant bulbs like daffodils and tulips, for early spring blooms and color.


• Dig up summer bulbs like dahlias, caladiums and other tender bulbs that will not survive through the winter.


• Fertilize your lawn with fall fertilizer.


• Bring your indoor plants back inside


• Fall is the season to plant grass


• Plant trees and shrubs in the fall, too!


• Continue watering your plants and grass until the first freeze.


• Empty fountains, hoses and sprinklers – standing water may freeze and burst a hose or crack a fountain


• Raise your lawnmower deck – less water means less growth, and taller grass fares better in winter months


• Buy that lawn mower or tractor that you have been wanting for so long!  Typically there are good sales at the end of the season!

 Marie Lally, Realtor

O’Brien Realty

Direct: 301-748-8698 (Always Best!)

Office: 301-884-7400

Website: http://www.marielally.com

Search Homes: http://search.marielally.com

Testimonials: http://testimonials.marielally.com

Search accurate and up-to-date real estate listings for homes for sale, rentals, commercial properties, land, building lots, new homes and more!  Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services for buyers and sellers in Southern Maryland.  Serving Charles County, Saint Mary's County and Calvert County, MD.

Clean Your Closets! Don't Hide the Clutter - Potential Buyers Will Judge the Space!

Your home is listed for sale…you worked all day, you went to soccer practice, you managed to go to grocery, cook dinner and next on the list is cutting the grass among the other hundreds of tasks you are expected to do to maintain a smooth running home.  Suddenly the phone rings and it is your listing agent letting you know that another agent will be bringing a well qualified, potential buyer through your home in less than an hour (it happens!).  UGH!  There are dirty dishes, groceries piled up, dirty soccer clothes and shoes scattered about and you are frantically trying to consolidate the mess. The closets, drawers, pantry, cabinets and garage seem to be the most logical place to pack your mess, right?  Out of sight, out of mind…right?

Be aware that sellers open cabinet doors and drawers, open pantries, closets, and even refrigerators and ovens.  Sellers’ eyes are everywhere - they are not being nosey - they are sizing up spaces to see if the spaces are sufficient to accommodate their items.  Ample storage and closet space has always been on my buyer clients’ “Must Have” lists when shopping for a home.  With short notice on a showing, I think buyers are more forgiving of a few dishes in the sink and unpacked groceries than stuffed, over-flowing and messy closets, cabinets and pantries.   

In general, keeping your closet clutter to a minimum and organizing your kitchen cabinets, drawers and pantry will allow potential buyers to imagine their items stored away.  Cabinets and closets in disarray will give the impression that there is not enough storage in the home.  I have found that closet organizers (even the inexpensive wire organizers) make a good impression on buyers, especially when items are well organized to show maximum use of space.  You can't change the size of the storage areas you have, but you can maximize the use of the space.  I have also noticed how buyers love a tidy garage – one that shelters cars rather than looking like a mini-storage facility.

In short, de-clutter those closets!  Clean out that pantry! Organize those drawers!  Buyers want spacious storage, so present yours in an orderly way!

For all your real estate needs...

Contact Marie Lally at 301-748-8698

Website: http://www.marielally.com

email: marie@marielally.com

Friendly, responsive and professional real estate services in Southern Maryland.  Serving homebuyers and sellers in St. Mary's County, Charles County, Calvert County and PG County, MD.

10 Easy Changes for Energy Efficiency in Your Home

Here are ten simple, cost effective, changes you can make that will save you money and increase the efficiency of your home.

1)      Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL).

2)      Change your furnace/air conditioner filter monthly

3)      Maintain your caulking on exterior doors and windows to reduce drafts

4)      Ensure your door and window weather-stripping is in good repair to reduce drafts

5)      Install an insulation jacket around your hot water heater / Reduce your HWH temperature to 120 degrees

6)      Program your thermostat for your at home and sleeping schedule

7)      On hot days, avoid using the oven – grill outdoors instead

8)      Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes,  Eliminate dryer use when possible

9)      Use your ceiling fans – you may be able to raise your thermostat about 4 degrees and still feel comfortable

10)  Plant trees to shade your air condition units and to provide shade around your home and grounds.  Remember to irrigate plants in early morning only.

What Type of Homebuyer Are You?

In this unique market, I can only pin-point one similarity among my buyer clients and that is finding “the best deal” out there…But in this quest for finding “the best deal”, what is the current trend that homebuyers are really looking for?  Do homebuyers want the most square-footage for their money?  Are buyers looking for high end, quality upgrades for their money? Will homebuyers take the super-sized fixer-upper in this market? Or, will homebuyers sacrifice their "must-haves" for a home priced significantly under market, even if it falls short of their needs?

Which home would you prefer if the price, condition, age and location were similar? 

1) Larger 3400sf, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with all white walls, minimal moldings, builder grade carpet, vinyl floor coverings in the kitchen and bath, laminate countertops, recessed panel cabinetry, one-piece vinyl tub units, single hung vinyl windows, builder grade lighting, mechanicals to code, vinyl siding, basic patio and basic landscaping…A tract home…In other words, a spacious and basic home.

2) Smaller 2400sf, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with moldings throughout, designer colors, hardwood and ceramic flooring throughout, granite countertops, raised panel cabinetry, high end ceramic tub surrounds, double hung quality windows, upgraded lighting, upgraded and efficient mechanicals, brick exterior, masonry fireplace, flagstone patio and elaborate landscaping…A unique, custom built home…In other words, a jewel box of a home.

Now, what if there was a home with a lot of potential?  Say a 5000sf home, built in the 70s, in good repair, however in need of a total decorator make-over… renovation of those harvest gold and robin’s egg blue bathrooms, complete remodel of the avocado green kitchen, replacement of the sculptured and shag carpeting, replacement of the old wood windows, etc…Good bones, but feels like you stepped back in time 30+ years.

 

I would love some responses!  Understandably, different stages of life dictate many different trends, too, so if you would like to share that information too, I would love to know!  And, of course, if you are looking to purchase or sell a home in Southern Maryland, I would love to assist you! 

The Importance of Curb Appeal When Selling Your Home

The old saying "Don't Judge a Book By It's Cover" does not necessarily hold much meaning when speaking of homes.  Through my experience, I have found that a house that looks shabby on the exterior does not get as many showings as one that looks manicured, neat and clean.  And, in today's market, with abundant inventory and competition, maximizing a home's curb appeal is very important to not only increase traffic but to also maximize your sales price.

Here are a few easy, economical, steps to increase your home's curb appeal:

1) Lawn: Keep it green and keep it cut and trimmed!

2) Landscape: Keep it mulched and free of weeds!  Shrubs should be trimmed, flowers should be added.  Keeping your landscape simple and clean will add to the visual appeal.  A shabby, messy, landscape will negatively affect your curb appeal.  An over-done, elaborate landscape can also scare people away because of maintenance.  Keeping it simple, moderate and clean is your best option.

3) Exterior Finishes: Fresh paint & fresh caulking add to a home's curb appeal.  A freshly painted front door appears to be inviting.  Also, clean siding, gutters, windows and trim work - and make sure everything is weather-tight and secure.  Repair/replace any rotten wood.  Make sure that downspouts are not clogged and direct water away from the house.

4) Clutter: Remove clutter, debris and trash cans from the front view of your home.  Let the character and beauty of your home shine through, without interruption from extra items.  Remember, the idea is to showcase your home and not hide it!

5) Driveway: For Asphalt driveways, fill cracks and apply a fresh coat of driveway sealant/top coat.  For Concrete, clean stains (rust stains can be removed with ZUD...Oil/Grease stains can be minimized with bleach or TSP). 

Remember you only have one chance to make a first impression - it is important to maximize your homes curb appeal to showcase your home and drive more potential buyers through your home.

St. Mary's County Internet Links - Government/Museums & History/Art/Golf/Racing/More!

Useful Internet Links for St. Mary’s County, MD

Government & Public Service:

St Mary’s County Government Website: http://www.co-saint-marys.md.us

St. Mary’s County Public Schools:  http://www.smcps.org/

St. Mary’s County Tourism Department: http://tour.co.saint-marys.md.us

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office: http://www.firstsheriff.com

St. Mary’s County Police/EMS Scanner: http://www.somd.com/scanner/

St. Mary’s County Health Department: http://www.smchd.org

St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services: http://www.dhr.state.md.us/stmarys.htm

St. Mary’s County Library: http://www.stmalib.org

St Mary’s County Departmetn of Parks & Rec:  http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate

St. Mary’s County Animal Control: http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/emergencycomm/animalcontrol.asp

St Mary’s County Recycling Division:  http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/dpw/dpwtemplate.asp?content=recyclingprogramslistingcontent.asp

St. Mary’s County Transportation Services Division: http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/dpw/dpwtemplate.asp?content=recyclingprogramslistingcontent.asp

Museums & Historic Places:

Cecil’s Mill Historic District: http://www.stmarysart.com

Chesapeake Bay Field Lab: http://www.thebaylab.org

Drayden African-American Schoolhouse: http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/museums/draydenschoolhouse.asp

Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum and Historic Park: http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/museums/ppl.asp

Historic St. Mary’s City: http://www.stmaryscity.org

Old Jail Museum:  http://www.stmaryshistory.org

Patuxent River Naval Air Museum:  http://www.paxmuseum.com

Point Lookout State Park & Civil War Museum:  http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/pointlookout.html

Sotterley Plantation:  http://www.sotterley.org

St Clements Island Museum: http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/museums/stclementsisland.asp

Tudor Hall: http://www.stmaryshistory.org

Golfing:

Breton Bay Golf & Country Club: http://www.bretonbaygolf.com

Wicomico Shores Golf Course:  http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/golfindex.asp

Performing Arts:

The Newtowne Players at Three Notch Theatre:  http://www.newtowneplayers.org

Chamber Orchestra of Southern Maryland:  http://www.cosmicmusic.org

River Concert Series: http://www.riverconcertseries.com

Art Galleries: 

North End Gallery: http://northendgallery.org/

Heron’s Way Gallery”  http://www.heronswaygallery.com/

Auto Racing:

Maryland International Raceway:  http://www.mirdrag.com/

Potomac Speedway:  http://www.potomacspeedway.com/

Area Business & Statistics:

St. Mary’s County Census QuickFacts: http://www.quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/24/24037

St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce: http://www.smcchamber.com/

Your Southern Maryland Real Estate Agent J:  http://www.marielally.com

Virtual Tours - A "MUST HAVE" Feature for Marketing Homes

Statistics show that most homebuyers utilize the internet when shopping for a home - the ease of searching, the ability to view homes, great mapping abilities, the fact that the internet is "open for business" 24 hours per day, etc.  Homebuyers are smart and what they may not know is available to them with a click of a mouse.  This informed homebuyer wants to be "in the know" and is hungry for information.

In my experience in working with builders, new construction homebuyers, resale homebuyers and sellers (my forte), virtual tours are a must have feature for both viewing and marketing properties.  More times than not, homebuyers tell me that they will pass over homes on the internet if there is no virtual tour, as they believe the seller and listing agent are hiding something by not utilizing this incredible tool - I hear this all the time.  My clients feel that a virtual tour is the next best thing to being there - especially relocation clients.

As a buyer's agent, it allows my buyer clients to select homes efficiently and effectively.  When viewing a tour, they can determine right then that a home should go on their "must see" list!  And, after having familiarity with the home through a virtual tour, they can focus more on the details when a showing is scheduled.  Buyer's love the information and presentation of a well thought out virtual tour.

As a seller's agent, I am able to showcase my clients' homes through the virtual tour subscription I utilize.  My virtual tour package allows me to present panoramic photos of the properties I list (not just a slide show presentation), enables detailed information about the property to be displayed, offers local school information, mortgage calculators and more.  My high definition tours provide me with hit statistics, text messages when a potential buyer emails someone through the system, and provides syndication to national real estate search sites to get my listings noticed.  Virtual tours, among other things, are a key element in my agressive marketing strategy...It is a service that my clients and I cannot do without.

I believe that there are so many various elements needed to properly market a home, especially now.  Properly marketing a home is more than just putting a sign in the yard and basic information in the MLS.  If you are in the market to sell your property, please contact me - I would appreciate the opportunity to present my very agressive marketing plan to you.

Setback / Programmable Thermostats Can Save You Money!

This past winter I had a programmable, or setback, thermostat installed in my home.  I had no idea of the energy cost savings that I would experience from making this simple change!  The thermostat was programmed to my family's at-home and sleeping schedule.  This was new to me, as I had always manually adjusted the thermostat in the past, if and when I remembered to do so. 

The energy savings I experienced was incredible!  My home utilizes fuel oil for heat and I realized that the volume of oil used daily, on average, was cut in half!  Additionally, my electric bill was significantly reduced, I suppose because the furnace/air handler ran less.

The thermostat has been adjusted to my family's summer schedule.  I paid my electric bill today and my electric usage appears to be about 25% less than what I used this time last year.   I think the savings is quite significant - it is amazing that such a small improvement can make such a significant change!

For more information on setback thermostats, click here.

First Impressions: Preparing Your Home for a Showing to Potential Homebuyers

You only have one chance to make a great first impression!  Here are some simple ways to maximize your home's appeal.

1)  Easily accessed homes that allow unrestricted showings have increased odds for a sale.  It is important to not limit showings, if possible. 

2)  Make sure that the approach into your home is as neat and appealing as possible.  Keep your grass cut and flower beds mulched.  Sweep all debris away from your walkway to the entry of your home.  Ensure your front door and windows are clean.  Add some flowers in pots and hanging baskets and purchase a new welcome mat to create an appealing entry!  

3)  In preparing the interior of your home for a showing, keep it bright with natural light from the windows and ensure all lights have working, bright, bulbs.  Open your heavy draperies and window shades during daylight hours.  Fresh paint, clean carpets, organized cabinets & closets, and removal of items that interrupt the flow of a room will all help present the home in the best light.

4)  Be aware of smells - try to open windows before a showing to circulate fresh air.  Eliminate pet odors - clean litter boxes, confine pets - some people may be allergic to them.  Take out the trash, too!  Odors can be an instant turn-off.

5) Clean your home!  The kitchen and bathroom should sparkle.  Beds should be made, bathroom towels should be folded, clothing picked up, waste baskets emptied and toilet seats should be down.  Pack away trinkets & knick-knacks and let your surfaces shine!

6)  And don't forget to add some simple, fresh, flowers to your kitchen table!  It is nice to see something fresh and alive!

7)  Vacate the property while it is being shown.  

 

 

 

Good To Know Information - FEMA Flood Maps

Southern Maryland's waterfront is beautiful and desirable.  There is, however, the possibility of flood hazards that can come with living on or near the water, and the requirement of flood insurance which can be very costly.  The requirement of flood insurance can make the difference in affording, or not affording, a particular home.  And if flood insurance is required, shop around - from my experience, there can be $1000+/year variation in price from company to company!

Know your risk... visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center,   You can search FEMA's flood maps by house address.  Their map service is user friendly and their website is packed with good, usable information. 

 

Great Maryland Destinations! Affordable, Fun & Beautiful Destinations Around Our Beautiful Waterfront!

Maryland's beauty flourishes in the summer months - especially around our gorgeous, treasured, waterfront.  I am often surprised to hear that so many people have never ventured out to enjoy the natural beauty of our plentiful rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, and surrounding waterfront areas - just a short trip away, by boat or by car, these areas offer history, nature, beauty & some downright fun, affordable recreation!  Here are a few of my favorite spots:

Assateague Island: 

I was awe-struck from the very first moment that I entered this pristine, untouched island on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.  Wild ponies, among other wildlife, are everywhere - walking on the beaches, through the campsites, down the street...it is breathtaking, to say the least.  The best viewing times that I have experienced are in the early evening toward dusk.  Be sure to pack your mosquito repellant as the mosquitos tend to swarm.

 

 

Tilghman Island: 

My stay here was short, having been forced on the island while boating and being caught up in a storm last summer...but what a nice surprise.  We docked at a small marina for the evening, just off of a channel that cuts through the center of the island.  This sleepy fishing town was quiet, picturesque and filled with friendly locals and others stranded in the storm.   We will definitely revisit Tilghman Island!

 

 

St Michaels: 

Quaint, Gorgeous, Charming, Amazing...this little town offers a perfect weekend getaway!  From shopping to boating, sightseeing to great dining, this is among my favorite Eastern Shore destinations!  We have gone to St. Michaels by land and boat, stayed in wonderful hotels as well as on our boat in a local marina.  It can be a little pricey to stay overnight, however, it is a wonderful day trip destination, too! 

 

 

 

St Clement's Island / St George's Island - St Mary's County, MD:  This is a great day trip if you wish to visit beautiful St. Mary's County in Southern Maryland.  St Clement's Island has a historical significance as Maryland's Birthplace and the location of Maryland's first Catholic mass.  "The Blessing of the Fleet" is a festival held annually.

St George's Island marks the location of the first battle in Maryland during the Revolutionary War.  This beautiful, natural area is rich is wildlife and offers various recreational activities including campgrounds, environmental & ecology tours, and more.  I highly recommend a tour on the "Dee of St Mary's", a skipjack boat... it is an enjoyable and beautiful experience!

 

Solomon's Island:

This gem of a town is located in Southern Calvert County.  Solomon's Island is a boating center for both sailboats and power boats at the mouth of the Patuxent River.  There is always something to do in Solomons Island - concerts at the Calvert Marine Museum, 4th of July fireworks, events at Ann Marie Gardens, water tours of the harbor and Patuxent River, education at the Chesapeake Biological Lab, charter boat fishing, casual and fine dining, light shopping and more.  As a resident of Southern Maryland, living a very short distance from Solomons Island, it is still a favorite weekend getaway spot!