In the last 40 years Howard county has grown into the richest county in Maryland, with what is considered to be the best school system in the state. It is ideally located between Baltimore and Washington, and just west of Fort Meade/NSA, and the residents make use of the major north/south and east/west freeways for rapid commuting to each.
Recently, Money Magazine rated Columbia/Ellicott City as the 4th best place to live in America. They used a variety of factors to reach their conclusions which included, top rated schools, recreational facilities, and family friendly government.
Housing ranges from urban to suburban to rural, with prices ranging from the mid $200,000's, to well above $2,000.000. The major cities are Columbia (a planned community) , and Ellicott City (the county seat).
Recovery in the Real Estate industry is in the air. The $8,000 tax credit for first time buyers has had a definite affect on the sale of properties under $400,000. Unfortunately it is coming to an end in November. As is the case with the whole Baltimore/Washington corridor, we are still in a great buyer's market, but prices seem to have bottomed out. The inventory of homes available for buyers is still much greater than it has been in the recent past.This is particularly true for upper end homes. Interest Rates are hovering around 5.5%.
Any property under $400,000, that is close to market value, and in reasonably decent shape, is selling in two to three months on average. Buyers are asking for reductions in sales prices, and closing cost help. It is still a good idea for buyers to have approved financing in hand. .
ZIP Codes: 20759, 20777, 20794, 21029, 21075, 20750-20777, 21104, 21150, 21163, 21723.21738, 21737, 21723, 21765, 21794, 21797 Location Characteristics: The county is full of rolling hills that used to be forests and farm land. Much of the land has now been developed into housing communities. The largest city, Columbia, houses just over 100,000 people. The county seat is Ellicott City, which covers a good portion of the county, and includes a historic district, as well as multi-million dollar estates.
About Jerry Boyer:
I've been Listing and selling residential real estate for 25 years. In that time I have learned that my clients needs and desires are all that matters, and I do my best to help them in every way I can. My experience and attention to all the details help to make a smooth transaction.
These reports reflect the views and opinions of their authors and are not necessarily the views and opinions of Realty Times.
