Local Realtors in the master-planned community of Columbia, Maryland report that sales are lively continuing into late summer.

"Columbia is peacefully beautiful," says Realtor Emmaniece Gordon. "Inventory is holding strong, and sellers are still getting market value on their home sale. Like most cities in Maryland, Columbia offer buyers a variety of benefits - especially those buyers with school-age children. Buyers and their families will find endless activities to keep them on a fun-filled weekend."

Gordon advises, "If you are thinking about selling, don't delay, take advantage of an incredible seller's market."

"Columbia, Maryland is one of the planned cities of the 1970's located north of Silver Spring," says Realtor Emcee Marah, " and in the middle of Howard County. It still maintains its unique characteristic of a 'green' city. The ambiance of the planned landscape and lakes is unmistakably inviting and relaxing. The serene walkways and bike paths in addition to the fine restaurants, shops and theatres make Columbia an oasis of quiet living. The schools are outstanding and always rank amongst the top five in the state of Maryland."

Says Realtor Jerry Boyer, "The community has seven villages, each with three neighborhoods. There are three Reservoir/Lake/Parks, 90 connected miles of hiking and biking trails, and countless lots."

About the market conditions, Boyer says, "The lack of homes for sale and the strong demand fueled by continuing low interest rates has created a market of rapidly rising prices and multiple offers for most properties. Upper-end properties are taking slightly longer to sell on average, but any property under $400,000 that is close to market value and in reasonably decent shape is selling in a few days at, or above, asked price. The winning buyers are those with approved financing in hand, and those that daily search for new listings. While the community offers a wide variety of types and prices of homes, the realistic starting price is about $175,000, and prices continues to above $800,000."

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Published: August 18, 2004

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