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Gretchen Conley - Howard County MD Real Estate

Sleet? Ice? Snow? We missed it today - but soon enough...

snowplowsnowplow link photo

We had rumors of a little icing this morning, but it didn't happen here in Howard County. Whew, another day NOT ADDED to the end of the school year! But in the meantime, here's a fun and enlightening tool when we do finally have a bit of snow sticking: It's the Howard County Snowplow Tracker! How cool is that? While you're bundled up in front of your computers at home next time, blowing on your steamy hot cocoa to cool it down, go here: www.HowardCountyMD.gov and then click on the snowflake link . Of course, if your power's out, you can call for an update: 410-313-2900, but I don't think that will be nearly as much fun as tracking the snowplows yourself!

Stay warm this winter! Best regards,

Good News, Maryland Sellers!!

booksWell, the word is out! Maryland is at the top of the charts! Education Week's (www.EdWeek.org) 13th annual report has been issued, and MARYLAND IS NUMBER ONE!! Maryland's public schools got the top score of 84.7 overall, taking into account six different categories rated. The score for the nation in general is at 76.2.

Not only does this provide impetus for the State to continue funding education, realizing it's a major draw for buyers in the area, and therefore, our economy as a whole -- but for our sellers, and our soon-to-be sellers, remember to emphasize, and have your Realtor emphasize, the significance of an outstanding school system, to our students, our property values, and our way of life -- Go, Maryland!!

Best regards,

The Savage Bridge

Looking for an interesting place to visit, a bit on the historical side? The Bollman Bridge in Savage, Maryland, is the only remaining Bollman Bridge in the world. Invented by a Baltimorean, Wendell Bollman, in 1852, it was the first bridge built completely from iron. In 1887, it was moved from its original location to Savage Mill, where you can see it - and walk across it - and while you're in the area, why not visit the Savage Mill shops (or the bakery for coffee and goodies)? Lots of interesting, one-of-a-kind speciality shops to window-shop - or truly shop - as you begin the new year.

Happy New Year to All!

Gift Card Exchange -- What a great idea, and a local company to boot!

giftcardrescueHave gift cards you've received and will never use? Or worried you'll be buying gift cards for the holidays that may not be any good if the company then goes out of business? Well, look no further! GiftCardRescue.com to the rescue! This is a local Ellicott City, MD firm that will purchase your unwanted gift cards, or let you trade for a store you'd prefer. Call them at 1-877-90-GET CASH or go to: http://www.GiftCardRescue.com

Love those who make the holidays simpler and more stress-free!

Best regards,

Advice to Sellers and Buyers

house

To Sellers: If it's time to sell, it's time to sell. Don't decide to sell (whether you have to or you want to) and then choose to set the price so high that (1) either you get no showings, or (2) you get lots of showings, which you have to keep the house picked up for, day in and day out, but don't ever get offers because it's listed so high. How frustrating for you either way! If you need to sell, let's price it right. If you don't need (or want) to sell, relax, put your feet up, and don't put your house on the market!

To Buyers: If you have a job, and you have income, and you have a good credit rating, there IS lender money out there, and this IS one of the best times to buy in recent history, so don't miss your opportunity!

As always, don't hesitate to contact me if you have some questions or need some help.

Best regards,