Local Realtors say historical Howard County, located along the Baltimore-Washington, D.C. corridor, offers enough amenities that real estate sales have continued strongly even during winter snows and freezes.

"Beautiful Howard County with rolling hills, an excellent highway system, and great schools is a wonderful place to live," says Realtor Emilie Christiansen, "History and mystery abound in Howard county from whispered ghost tales in 230-year old Ellicott City, home to the oldest railroad station in America, to the healing powers of a relic of St. Anthony at the St. Joseph Cupertino Franciscan Friary. Explore African-American history at the African Art Museum of Maryland and the Howard County Center of African American Culture, located in Columbia. And enjoy scenic areas such as the Patapsco Valley State Park and Columbia's Lake Kittamaqundi, where pedalboats are a favorite past time. The Bollman Truss Bridge is also something to see. Located at the foot of Savage Mill, it is one of only two of its kind left in the world."

Christiansen says despite the big snow recently, real estate did not slow down. "With modern technology, contracts can be e-mailed and faxed," points out Christiansen, "settlements were not delayed. Home Inspections were a little problem and these were delayed. It is still pretty cool outside but buyers are still buying - 5.5 percent interest rate - unbelievable! The market is stronger than ever.

"In all of Howard County there are 256 homes for sale, excluding homes to be built and mobile homes (4) and 55 homes under $200,000," she advises. "Overall there are still too few homes on the market and plenty of buyers. It is a seller's market."

Says Realtor "Home prices have continued to appreciate at most respectful rates for sellers, and the friendly Federal Reserve Board has continued to keep interest rates at all time historical low rates assisting buyers. These low rates have continued to stimulate the real estate market and economy, and assist buyers by allowing them to purchase more home."

Click here to view current Market Conditions in your location.

Published: March 17, 2003

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.