Spring Showers Bring Beautiful, Lush Lawns

Spring Showers Bring Beautiful, Lush Lawns



Season after season and year after year, you do everything you can to get your lawn looking lush and vibrant. You know, just like your neighbor's lawn. You've done it all - from dedicating weekends to covering your lawn in fertilizer to inspecting every inch of your lawn on all fours. But despite your greatest efforts, you still have somehow managed not to achieve the awe worthy lawn you want. If getting that picture perfect lawn feels like a feat that will never come to fruition then perhaps there are still some steps you've missed in your lawn care routine.

Lawn aeration and over-seeding are not only essential steps to your lawn care routine, but can also be the answer you've been looking for. Over the previous summer, your lawn will have been subjected to a lot of traffic that can cause soil compaction, which if not alleviated can lead to a variety of problems. Lawn aeration doesn't just loosen the soil, it increases oxygen flow, water and nutrients absorption, and helps eliminates thatch. Following up with over-seeding promotes new growth, ensuring your lawn stays thick and dense making it much harder for weeds to come along and call your lawn home.

When it comes to lawn care, timing is everything, and could be the difference between achieving that picture perfect lawn and not. That's why kick starting your lawn care routine in early spring is the best thing you can do. Since that is when your lawn is awakening from the winter thaw and actively growing, allowing it to recover from the lawn aeration quickly and grow more lushly from the over-seeding.

Source: GreenLawn.

Is Facebook the Anti-Social Network? Tips for Overcoming Tech Disconnection and Anxiety

Is Facebook the Anti-Social Network? Tips for Overcoming Tech Disconnection and Anxiety



Social media sites like Facebook connect users with old friends, new acquaintances and everyone in between. However, studies are revealing an inverse link with online connections and deeper, face-to-face relationships.

Norwegian researchers recently developed a test for networking sites, called the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale, which likens inordinate amounts of time spent on the networking site to drug and alcohol abuse. The test measures how often people use the site, if they do so to forget their problems and how using the site negatively affects their personal and working lives.

Researchers found the following groups of people most at risk for Facebook addiction:
• Women, who are more social than men,
• Young people, who are more tech savvy than older people
• Anxious or socially insecure people

“Social media, and the new emphasis on the importance of ‘multitasking,’ have helped drive a wedge between family members,” says psychologist Gregory L. Jantz, author of #Hooked: The Pitfalls of Media, Technology and Social Networking (www.drgregoryjantz.com).

Ironically, people become less social the more time they spend on social sites, and they tend to get less done while multitasking because they do not focus on completing one task at a time, he says.

“When people abuse drugs and alcohol, they are trying to feel better, yet they are worsening their situation. We’re finding this is also true for those who spend excessive amounts of time on social networking sites,” he says. “Perhaps the hardest hit from social media addiction is the family unit.”

Parents should monitor their own time online to ensure it’s not further limiting the already shrinking amount of time available with their children, Jantz says. And they need to safeguard their children by monitoring their time, as well. Jantz suggests these questions for parents to ask themselves in gauging their kids’ media usage:

• How much time do your kids spend with various forms of media? There are plenty of distractions from homework. Estimate how much time your child spends with the television, Internet, social networking sites, cell phone, Blu-rays and game systems. The more time spent with media, the lower a child’s academic performance, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation study.

• How much time do your kids spend with you versus online media? Remember, simply being in the same room isn’t necessarily interacting. The less the scales tip in favor of human-to-human interaction, the more likely there may be a problem.

• Do you know how each device works and how it can be used? Familiarity with your children’s gadgets gives you a better perspective of what their habits may be like.

• What are the consequences of their tech habits, and what should be changed? Make a list of the good and the bad consequences of your family’s technology use. After comparing the two lists, consider changes that can turn negatives into positives.

“Technology continues at its accelerating pace, and we are in unchartered territory,” Jantz says. “Increasingly, social networking infiltrates our personal lives, but we need to remember that it is created to serve us, and not the other way around.”

Gregory Jantz has more than 25 years experience in mental health counseling and is the founder of The Center for Counseling and Health Resources, near Seattle, Wash. Visit http://www.aplaceofhope.com/ for more information.

Honfest 2012 - June 9 and 10, 2012

Honfest 2012 - June 9-10, 2012

Honfest Pagent 2009

It's that time of year when people all over venture to Baltimore's Hampden neighborhood.  Folks arrive costumed in an assorted grab bag of Sixties-era garb, making the entire event into one hugely entertaining costume party. Women of all ages and sizes wear vintage spandex pants, heavily applied blue eye shadow, cat eye glasses and any item of clothing or accessory that has a leopard print and, most importantly, outrageous beehive hairdos that are teased as high as the sky and supported with volumes of hair spray.

The event came to be in 1994 as a celebration of all things "Bawlmer"!! 

This festival covers four city blocks on 36th Street (The Avenue) in the neighborhood of Hampden. Hampden is a revered old-style Baltimore neighborhood, filled with quirky shops, quaint restaurants and friendly residents. HonFest gives local storeowners the opportunity to spill-out onto the sidewalk and showcase their wares. HonFest is a favorite destination for young and old, tourist and resident and starts at 11 am on Saturday until 10pm and Noon until 6pm on Sunday.  

For more information visit the official website.   You definitely won't want to miss a great time.

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

Out of the Box Ideas That Take the Stress out of Saving for a Down Payment

Out of the Box Ideas That Take the Stress Out of Saving for a Down Payment

For those dreaming of owning a home, the thought of coming up with money for a down payment is enough to scare many perspective buyers away. However, even if you don’t have the necessary funds for a down payment in the bank, there are other options that you should take into consideration to come up with the money you need to put a down payment on your dream home.

The easiest way to get a down payment for a home is to borrow against one’s retirement account. Many people have been investing in a 401(k) plan or traditional IRA for years, and first-time homebuyers may borrow up to $10,000 for their down payment without incurring a penalty. For those who are self-employed—or if your employer allows it—you can also borrow up to $50,000 from your current 401(k) and pay yourself back over five years at a low interest rate.

In addition, you can do some research and look for down payment assistance grants. Down payment assistance and community redevelopment programs offer affordable housing opportunities to first-time homebuyers, low-income and moderate-income individuals and families who wish to achieve homeownership.

Family is another option that you may want to take into consideration when it comes to securing funds for a down payment. Sure, you may be too proud to want to ask for money, but if your family can help you and your family move into your dream home, isn’t it worth it? If you do get help from a family member, the lender will ask you to sign a form called a gift letter, attesting to the relationship. The lender may also require your parents to explain where they got the money and prove that they are financially able to make such a gift.

If you’re still not finding the money to put together for a down payment, there’s always the creative lease/purchase agreement. Homeowners who can’t sell their homes in this market will be more amenable to cutting a deal with buyers and may be willing to take part in a lease/purchase agreement, where you rent the home you want to buy and a percentage of your rent is applied toward the down payment. If you go this route, make sure you get a contract outlining all the details so both parties are safe.

Adding a down payment option to your wedding registry is gaining popularity among those just starting out in life together. Several mortgage companies allow those getting married to set up a down payment registry. What a great way to celebrate the joining of two people in holy matrimony than to help them buy a house.

If none of these things will work for your specific situation, there’s always the old fashioned “saving for a rainy day” tactic. Try putting aside 10 percent of your paycheck each week and make an effort to bring a lunch to work instead of going out. If you’re married, use the money you would spend on birthday, anniversary and Christmas presents and put that toward your down payment. You might also need to forget that vacation this year. It may seem like a lot, but the sacrifice will be well worth it when you’re living in your new home.

For more tips on how to save for a down payment, contact our office today.

By Keith Loria

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

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