Oriole Day at Cromwell Valley Park

Oriole Day at Cromwell Valley Park

On Saturday May 19 from 8a.m. - 12 p.m., we will be celebrating the return of the Baltimore Orioles to nest at Cromwell Valley Park.

If you've never seen our state bird, this is your chance.

Events will include:

·         hourly bird walks, beginning at 8:00;

·         a puppet show at 10:30;

·         crafts and games and prizes for the children;

·         live birds;

·         displays and demonstrations related to orioles, bluebirds, wildlife photography, optics, birding and natural history.

There is no cost for the program, and you don't need to register ahead of time.

It will be a fun and educational event that adults and the whole family will enjoy.

The event will take place at Willow Grove Farm located at 2175 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, MD 21234. 

Take the I-695 beltway to Exit 29.  Turn left at the first light onto Cromwell Bridge Road, Turn left onto park entry road at 2175 Cromwell Bridge Road.  The signs say, “Cromwell Valley Park, Willow Grove Farm, Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks.”  Follow the road across the bridge and park in gravel parking lot on the left.

If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations

Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations

Livability.com, a national website that highlights more than 500 of America’s best places to live, recently released a list of the top 10 cities for affordable vacations.

A great trip shouldn't be a financial hardship, but finding the right destination to maximize travel dollars can be a real chore. Livability.com editors narrowed down the list of 500 cities to destinations offering both value and a variety of attractions and entertainment options that appeal to families and single vacationers alike. Cities were ranked by the quality and quantity of unique, free activities—both indoors and out—and by the availability of discounts on otherwise pricey attractions.  Now that I'm 40-something and have kids of my own I'm always looking for great vacation spots so my kids have great memories of their vacations.  But, being the mother of 5, finding affordable vacations is really a chore.  This is a great list and I know I'm looking forward to some great vacations with my family. 

“Great family vacations don't have to be expensive,” says Nancy Schretter, managing editor of the Family Travel Network. “Get the whole family together to help plan the vacation and decide on your own definition of family fun. Then enlist the kids' help (if they're old enough) in searching the Internet for cities that have attractions that match your family's interests.”

Schretter also suggests traveling during the off season to take advantage of hotel and attraction price breaks. Be sure to download free coupon and discount books online, and check individual attractions’ websites for special rates. If you’re traveling with children, choose restaurants where kids eat free and look for hotels or other places to stay that offer free breakfast, kitchens and more room to spread out.

Whether your ideal vacation is hiking a snow-capped mountain, milling around museums or downing cheesy concessions at a minor league park, this list of top cities for the best affordable vacation destinations gives travelers plenty of choices.  And, there are loads of choices here at these great destinations.

Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations:

1. Louisville, Ky. - Home of the world-famous Kentucky Derby, Louisville prides itself in all things equine. Take a historic walking tour of Churchill Downs with admission to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Kids under five are admitted free, and AAA members receive discounts. Join in the citywide Derby Week celebration at the Kentucky Derby Festival and Thunder of Louisville, the largest fireworks display in America.
2. Minneapolis, Minn. - home to Mall of America and many other free destinations, Minneapolis is a cool destination to visit.
3. San Antonio, Texas - Downtown, San Antonio’s famed River Walk offers visitors a glimpse into Texas culture, art and commerce. Its latest addition is the Museum Reach, which stretches north from downtown and connects the existing River Walk to the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Pearl Brewery complex.
4. Chattanooga, Tenn. - For less than $4, train enthusiasts come aboard at Chattanooga’s Model Railroad Museum, located in the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. The model railroad exhibit is one of the world’s largest and includes more than 3,000 feet of track.  Being a model train enthusiast myself, this looks like a great place to visit.
5. Greenville, S.C. - located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Every May Greenville hosts Artisphere with many attractions. 
6. Tulsa, Okla. - attractions include Tulsa International Speedway, Tulsa Air and Space Museum, Andy B's arcade and go-karts, Oklahoma Aquarium, Stone Bluff Cellars winery, Big Splash Water Park.
7. Boulder, Colo. - located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.  Outside Magazine recognized Boulder as the destination for outdoor enthusiasts for cycling, running, rock climbing and many more outdoor activities.
8. Athens, Ga. - rated the #1 on the college music scene so will be popular with your teenagers and 20-something folks. 
9. Tempe, Ariz. - suburb of Phoenix.  Home to the Tempe Arts Festival and a free Oktoberfest celebration. 
10. Rogers, Ark. - located in the Ozarks, one of the most popular destinations is Crystal Bridges Museum which is free to visitors.
 
If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

The Housing Recovery is Slow Going, but Things are Improving

The Housing Recovery Is Slow Going, but Things Are Improving

There has been a flurry of media stories regarding the latest housing data that suggest the recent momentum in the housing market has stalled and the industry is heading toward another downturn.

Although the latest monthly housing data showed modest declines, the less volatile quarterly data have continued to show modest improvement. Consequently, there is plenty of evidence for retaining a cautious optimism for a gradual recovery. While the February new-home sales rate dipped a nominal 1.6 percent, sales are still running 11.4 percent above their year-ago level and at the rate expected for the slow recovery. Meanwhile, the inventory for new-homes for sale remains at an all-time record low.

While combined U.S. housing starts lost some ground in March, this was almost entirely due to typical month-to-month volatility on the multifamily side. The fact is that single-family and multifamily starts and permits were all stronger in the first quarter of 2012 than they were in the fourth quarter of 2011, indicating that the market continues to slowly strengthen, albeit in fits and starts.

We are also seeing the long-term improvement in housing conditions continuing to take hold in a growing number of local markets. The April NAHB/First American Improving Markets indicates that 101 individual metros are showing measurable and consistent signs they are heading in the right direction.

Total job growth continues upward, providing added consumer confidence and pushing personal income up.

No one is anticipating that an upward path for housing will run in a straight-line trajectory. The economy is in an uneven recovery and we can expect some corresponding ups-and-downs in the housing market in the months ahead.

However, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) believes that on the whole, we can expect a slow and gradual recovery in housing starts, home sales and the overall housing market in 2012. We will provide more details on our perspective on national and regional housing trends at the Spring
Those who wish to register can do so by logging on to www.nahb.org/cfw.

View this original post on NAHB’s blog, Eye on Housing.

If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

What does Selling "As-Is" Really Mean

What Does Selling "As-Is" Really Mean?

As Dareck Bogacki said in a recent blog post on Trulia, selling "As-Is" can be a confusing statement for both buyers and sellers. It can mean many things to many people.

In Maryland we do have an "As-Is" Addendum that we can add to our contract of sale. It states "The property is sold in "As-Is" condition as of the Date of Contract Acceptance. Seller makes no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition of the Property or any equipment or system contained therein. Seller agrees to comply with Section 10-702 of the Real Property Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland if applicable (Residental Property Disclosure and Disclaimer). The parties agree that all clauses in the Contract pertaining to property condition and wood destroying insects are hereby deleted from the Contract. Buyer understand and agrees that Seller shall have no obligation to make repairs." and it goes on from there to all the prospective buyer to have an inspection or decline an inspection.

As-Is, however, as I understand it, has nothing to do with title or defects in the title. I recently wrote a contract on a property that was in foreclosure. The contract was written as "fee simple" and the seller signed and agreed to the contract. And, depending on who forecloses on the property they are exempt from the Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer rule.   When the title work was complete it was found that the property was not fee simple but in fact had $150/yr ground rent. The seller refused to redeem the ground rent claiming that the property was being sold "as-is". After much arguing, my clients decided to accept the property with the ground rent only because the contract process had taken so long and after many issues and many delays they were homeless and staying in hotels, with friends and family for 3 weeks after the original settlement date had passed and just wanted to move into their new home.

Selling your home in "as is" condition, however, does not mean you don't have to disclose any defects. If you have a wet basement, or if your basement leakss when it rains hard for 3 days and the wind blows from the north east then you have to disclose those facts to the prospective purchaser. If you've had termites, you have to disclose that fact.

In 1998 my ex and I bought a house, there had been termites, but the seller had it treated and the sill plate repaired. In 2004 we renovated the kitchen (the back room on the house). We had the whole kitchen gutted, windows removed and replaced and so on. When the contractors removed the original back window there was massive termite damage. The only thing holding up the back wall of my house was the siding on the outside, so the contractors had to rebuild the entire back wall of the house and replace the siding and after much additional cost I had my dream kitchen. Before they reframed the house I called Paul Weir at Weir Pest Services to come and take a look. Paul Weir has been my termite inspector for many years and I trust his opinion. He came as soon as I called him and he told me there were no live termites (yeah) but there would have been no way to know how extensive the termite damage was at the time we bought the house because inspectors can only inspect what they can see. They could see the damage to the sill plate and that was repaired but because the framing was behind siding and plaster there was no way they could have known the extent of the damage.

In Maryland and points south (and probably north too - ask your Realtor) be sure to have a termite inspection when you purchase your home and you may want to have a regular inspection afterwards too just to be safe. It's not that expensive and can save you a lot of heartache.

In 2012 the days of "caveat emptor" are gone. We live in a litigious society and people will file law suits for many things. Property condition failure to disclose is one of those things that people do sue over. The real estate contract is very clear if you know something about your home you must disclose it. Selling "As-Is" does not exempt you from disclosing defects. It simply means that you can't or are unable to make any repairs for the new buyer but if you know something then you must tell. As a Realtor/Associate Broker I insist that my sellers complete the Property Disclosure if they live in the home, and I insist that my non-resident sellers look over the questions and disclose anything they know about the home. This is just good real estate practice.

In addition, special disclosures might include things like historical designations, home owners or neighborhood association restrictions, special zoning or environmental concerns. If you home was built prior to 1978 there may also be lead based paint concerns. It is always best to err on the side of disclosure, if you are in doubt ask your real estate professional for their advice.

If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

Canton Open House - 1109 S. Clinton St., Baltimore, MD 21224 - Open House April 22, 2012 - 12-3pm

June Piper-Brandon | Century 21 New Millennium | (410) 292-0100 1109 S Clinton St, Baltimore, MD Come Join Us On April 22, 2012 from 12-3pm And, Enjoy the View From The Rooftop Deck 3BR/2+1BA Single Family House offered at $525,000 Year Built 1920 Sq Footage 2,412 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial Floors 3 Parking 2 Uncovered spaces Lot Size 1,200 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Join Us on April 22, 2012 from 12-3pm for Our Open House. Enjoy this gorgeous renovation in Canton, walk to the water, walk to Canton Square, 2 car parking pad in back. Inside you'll be astonished at all the ammenities this home has to offer, hw fls, granite counters, ss appl's, family room on 3rd fl with wet bar, balcony and stairs to huge roof top deck with clear view of Baltimore's harbor. You could be in for 4th July fireworks!! see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Central A/C - Central heat - High/Vaulted ceiling - Hardwood floor - Family room - Living room - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Basement - Washer - Dryer - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Jacuzzi/Whirlpool COMMUNITY FEATURES - Laundry on-site - Storage space(s) OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES - Roof top Deck - View of Harbor - Granite Counters - Stainless Appliances - 2 Car Parking Pad - Walk to Canton Square - Just Renovated - Hardwood Floors - Jetted Tub & Steam Showers ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Welcome Home Kitchen Kitchen Bathroom Bathroom View from Deck Living Room Living Room Dining Room Stairs Living Room Contact info: June Piper-Brandon Century 21 New Millennium (410) 292-0100 For sale by agent/broker Posted: Apr 17, 2012, 8:03am PDT

Just Sold In Glen Burnie, MD - I Have More Buyers Looking for a Home

June Piper-Brandon | Century 21 Associates | (410) 292-0100 19 Brownshade Dr, Glen Burnie, MD Just Sold 5BR/3BA Single Family House offered at $299,900 Year Built 1953 Sq Footage 2,304 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 3 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 3 Uncovered spaces Lot Size 24,750 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION New Home for you for the Holidays!! Great home in Old Glen Burnie. Gleaming hw floors, new carpet upstairs & freshly painted. The home features a rear porch overlooking lovely lg backyard with lots of space. Spacious inside too & an inlaw suite perfect for extended family, added income or home office. Main floor bds, upper level sitting rm. This home has much to offer. Make an offer today!! see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Central heat - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Family room - Living room - Dining room - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Attic - Basement - Washer - Dryer - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard COMMUNITY FEATURES - Guest parking - Laundry on-site - Storage space(s) OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES - Hardwood Floor - In-Law Suite - Large Level Lot - Quiet Neighborhood in Old Glen Burnie - Full Basement with Workshop - Tree Lined Street ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Contact info: June Piper-Brandon Century 21 Associates (410) 292-0100 For sale by agent/broker Posted: Apr 16, 2012, 1:33pm PDT

Tree Troubles: Whose Yard Is It, Anyway?

Tree Troubles: Whose Yard Is It, Anyway?


When a tree is planted between property lines, disputes may arise, and an otherwise neighborly relationship may be strained. Or perhaps a tree fell, and now no one knows who should cover the cost. From dangerous tree removal to the just plain annoying tree debris landing in the yard, there are ways to work out tree problems and maintain good neighborly relations.

Most shared tree problems fall into three main categories:

1. Hazardous Tree Removal: The neighbor's tree is dead, split or leaning. The homeowner next door wants the tree removed before it falls in the yard and perhaps hits the house or other property.

2. Property Damage: The neighbor’s tree has fallen and damaged property. Payment for tree removal service and damage repair is required.

3. Poor Maintenance: The tree is growing over the next door neighbor's roof. Debris keeps falling in the yard, pool or patio. The tree needs professional maintenance to resolve the problem.

“Don't touch a neighbor's tree,” advises Lou Giroud, ISA Certified Arborist and President, Giroud Tree and Lawn. “By law provided there is no trespassing, a homeowner has the right to take care of the portion of the tree on their property. However, to avoid conflict and potential legal issues, get the neighbor’s permission before taking any action.”

Here's how to proceed. “Start with an evaluation by an ISA Certified Arborist,” suggests Mr. Giroud. "Ask the Arborist to assess the situation and provide a recommendation in writing. Share the professional evaluation with your neighbor, especially if the tree is deemed a hazard and removal by a tree removal service is required.

The next step is to reach out to the neighbor. “In working with thousands of tree issues between neighbors,” explains Mr. Giroud, “I’ve found that the best results are gained through friendly communication.”

1. If the neighbor is approachable, call or visit. Schedule a time to talk about the tree problem. Calmly present the issue and share the recommendation from the tree service company. If the neighbor can’t pay for the work, offer to pay for it or share in the cost.

2. If the neighbor is never home, write a friendly letter explaining the concern and attach the Arborist’s recommendation.

3. If the neighbor doesn’t respond, send a certified letter. As a last resort, hire an attorney specializing in tree law.

Disputes with a neighbor can cause a lot of stress. An ISA Certified Arborist can evaluate the situation and help make the job of negotiating with a neighbor a little easier.

Source: Giroud Tree and Lawn, http://www.giroudtree.com.


If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

Clean House Naturally and Avoid Toxic Cleansers

Clean House Naturally and Avoid Toxic Cleansers

It's time to tackle the annual home cleaning. But just because you're thoroughly washing, scrubbing and disinfecting your home, doesn't mean you need to turn to cleansers with harsh ingredients and chemicals. In fact, you can easily clean using inexpensive products already in your kitchen, such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice. Use these tips to clean your home naturally.

Start seeing clearly: After months of winter weather, windows are often coated with a layer of grime. A solution of 2 teaspoons of white vinegar and 1 liter of warm water can be used to gently remove dust or dirt from all glass surfaces including windows and mirrors.

Freshen up the fridge: In addition to food spills, your refrigerator takes on odors from all the different foods stored throughout the year. Discard old items and be sure you are regularly cleaning out the fridge. Help reduce odors year-round by keeping a box of ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda in the fridge at all times, replacing it every 30 days for best results.

Reawaken your wardrobe: Start the season feeling good in clothes that smell fresh. Even when carefully stored, clothing can still be exposed to dust, and may require a good washing before wearing. Add 1 cup of baking soda to your next wash to naturally boost the power of your detergent. The combination will help balance PH levels to leave clothing cleaner and fresher. You can also freshen non-washable items like gym shoes, bags and sports equipment by sprinkling baking soda inside.

Renew the everyday rooms: Avoid the fumes of harsh kitchen and bathroom cleaners by naturally cleaning surfaces with baking soda. A sprinkle of baking soda on a damp sponge will clean counters, stainless steel sinks, microwaves, ovens and much more without scratching. For tough grease, mix vinegar and lemon juice to leave your surfaces like new.

Bet on a BBQ: After the inside of your home is looking spic and span, prepare for warmer weather and outdoor entertaining. Get your grill ready to prevent bad tasting hot dogs and hamburgers from ruining your next BBQ. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp brush, then scrub away any residue and rinse clean. For really difficult stains, make a paste with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part warm water and use a wire-bristled brush to work away at grime and grease stains.

Source: www.armandhammer.com.


If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

Top 10 Museums to Visit in the Baltimore Area

Top 10 Museums to Visit in the Baltimore Area

Spring break starts today so I'm sure families will be looking for places to visit over the next week with their families. One of the things that makes Baltimore so great is the number of museums and historical places to visit. Baltimore was ranked the most visibly historic towns in the country, here are ten reasons why. I know my list is probably incomplete and there are tons more museums but this is my list of the top 10.

1. B & O Railroad Museum - This has always been a favorite of my family. The B & O Museum is located in Baltimore City at 901W. Pratt Street. The collection contains over 200 trains plus many pieces of railroad memorabilia. There is an HO exhibit in a railroad car outside and an active G Scale layout outside in the yard.

2. Ellicott City B & O Railroad Museum - The oldest surviving railroad station in America. The Ellicott City station is located at 2711 Maryland Ave., Ellicott City.

3. Fire Museum of Maryland - This is another one of our favorites. I think one of the reasons is because it's so close to where we live. The Fire Museum is located at 1301 York Road in Lutherville. The exhibit is the third largest in the United States and includes antique fire apparatus, memorabilia, fire-fighting equipment, models, and photographs.

4. American Visionary Arts Museum - is located at 800 Key Hwy in Baltimore's Federal Hill neighborhood. The Visionary Arts Museum specializes in the preservation and display of visionary art which is similar to folk art. They have over 4000 items on exhibit in the museum and the exhibits keep changing. This is definitely a very cool place to visit, lots to look at and think about.

5. Maryland Science Center - Located at 601 Light Street in Baltimore along the Inner Harbor. The Maryland Science Center is home to the IMAX theatre and has many exhibits with something for everyone. There are many hands on exhibits that allow kids big and little try things out and really see how they work.

6. Maryland Historical Society Museum - Most people don't think of the Maryland Historical Society when they are thinking of museums to visit. The museum is located at 201 W. Monument Street in Baltimore and is easily accessible from the light rail. The museum was founded in 1844 and is the oldest museum in Maryland that is dedicated to the collection and preservation of artifacts that reflect Maryland's diverse heritage.

7. Walters Art Museum - is located on the corner of Charles and Centre Street in Mount Vernon and has a world renowned collection of some of the best art pieces in the world. It will take you more than one day to see everything here. As many times as we have been there are still parts of the exhibit that we haven't seen.

8. Fort McHenry - Is the star shaped fort in Baltimore that is best known for its role in the War of 1812 when it successfully defended Baltimore's harbor from an attack by the British Navy. I think one of the best ways to get to Fort McHenry is to take the water taxi from the Inner Harbor.

9. The National Electronics Musem - is located at 1745 W. Nursery Road in Linthicum. The National Electronics Museum houses exhibits containing assortments of telegraphs, radios, radars and satellites.

10. Port Discovery - is a children's museum and is located at 35 Market Place in Baltimore. Port Discovery offers three floors of interactive, educational exhibits and ever-changing programs for children ages birth through 10.

Wikepedia has a great list of other museums and places of interest that you may want to check out if these don't quite tickle your fancy.

If you are thinking of buying or selling an home in Maryland give me a call at 410-292-0100 or start your search here and we'll talk about the market conditions and what your home could possibly be worth in today's market place if you are thinking of selling. If you are considering buying a home, there is no better time than now to buy. The tax savings and wealth building alone is worth the plunge into todays market. Century 21 New Millennium is part of the largest nationwide relocation company and can assist with your move here in Maryland or anywhere in the United States or abroad. Ask me how.

In keeping with saluting our heroes, during 2012 I am waving flat fees for active duty military, retired military and the families of fallen military, as well as policemen, firemen and emt's. If you enter into a contract by the New Year's eve I will waive the flat fee at settlement. This is a $395 savings. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home give me a call and receive full service real estate assistance from an experienced agent. Our office is open 7 days a week and we can be reached at 410-730-8888 or I can be reached directly at 410-292-0100.

June Piper-Brandon ~ Associate Broker, CDPE, CIAS, ePro

Century 21 New Millennium

Great Investment Opportunity

June Piper-Brandon | Century 21 New Millennium | (410) 292-0100 4227 Audrey Ave, Baltimore, MD Just Reduced - Great Investment Opportunity 2BR/2BA Multi-Family, 2 units offered at $69,999 Year Built 1943 Sq Footage 1,104 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors Unspecified Parking Unspecified Lot Size 2,050 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Fantastic opportunity to live in one and let the other unit pay your mortgage or to rent both units out & have a great positive cashflow. House has been completely renovated with everything new inside. Home features 2 separate units with hardwood floors, each is a 1 bedroom apartment with a shared basement area. Basement has opportunity for coin laundry. Shared heat/hw, sep metered gas/electric!... see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Central heat - Hardwood floor - Dining room - Stove/Oven - Basement - Yard OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES - 2 Unit Property - Just Renovated - Ready to Move In - Could be a Cash Cow ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Photo 7 Photo 8 Photo 9 Photo 10 Contact info: June Piper-Brandon Century 21 New Millennium (410) 292-0100 For sale by agent/broker Posted: Apr 2, 2012, 7:53am PDT

Build Your Dream Home in Beautiful Harford County

June Piper-Brandon | Century 21 Associates | (410) 292-0100 243 Wheeler School Rd, Pylesville, MD Build Your Dream Home Here 114,998 sqft Vacant Land offered at $180,000 Lot Size 114,998 sqft DESCRIPTION Is a new home in your sites for 2012? Build your dream home here in lovely Harford County. Great building lot for sale. The lot has passed a perc test. Lot plan available. Convenient to Aberdeen Proving Ground. see additional photos below LOCATION FEATURES - Convenient to Aberdeen Proving Ground - Beautiful location OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES - Has passed the perc test - Lot Plan Available ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Photo 7 Photo 8 Photo 9 Photo 10 Photo 11 Photo 12 Photo 13 Photo 14 Photo 15 Photo 16 Photo 17 Photo 18 Contact info: June Piper-Brandon Century 21 Associates (410) 292-0100 For sale by agent/broker Posted: Apr 1, 2012, 4:58pm PDT