In my business over the past year I have seen an increase in the number of buyers choosing to pay cash as opposed to obtaining a mortgage. All but one were deals involving vacation or investment homes in the Kent Island area of Queen Anne’s County Maryland. Several were over a
million dollars
So why with rates so low and prices at their lowest in years are buyers using cash?
Several reasons come to mind. First, if a seller has had a home on the market for an extended period of time and has substantial equity they may leap at a lower offer of cash over a higher offer that involves home sales or financing contingencies that may or may not result in settlement. Cash is king, most often a cash buyer can get a better deal.
Additionally with no mortgage there is no Property Mortgage Insurance which can be thousands of dollars and things like costly appraisals are not mandatory and are done at the buyer’s discretion.
I think the increase in cash deals could also be an indication of increased confidence as people with substantial means are not feeling the need to hoard cash the way they might have a year or two ago.
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209 Lighthouse View
When the ideal home, a shared sense of community pride, and the great outdoors mesh together, a majestic harmony emerges. That harmony is exactly what can be found at one particular property on Queen Anne County’s Lighthouse View Drive.
Nestled in the heart of Kent Island’s exclusive Bloody Point Farm community sits a home with as much character and architectural genius as some of Maryland’s most historic structures. Defined by an intrinsic charm, which even the most ambitious designers aspire to create, and an outdoor setting that is as serene as it is full of life, this 5,000 square foot home is one of the neighborhood’s most prized properties.
It would be next to impossible to accurately depict the ambiance surrounding this residence without first exploring the equally enchanting community to which it belongs. Bloody Point Farm is located at the southeastern corner of Kent Island, the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay. Originally serving as a trading post, Kent Island has flourished into a remote town known for its scenic nature trails, picturesque marinas, restored villages, and eclectic restaurants. The area also serves as a sanctuary for anglers, vacationers, avid water lovers, and anyone who has an appetite for natural history.
Elegant Entry and Curving Staircase
Home to a mere 15 residences, Bloody Point Farm is a quaint neighborhood with properties that have become vastly sought after. Each dwelling within the community enjoys both a waterfront view of the Chesapeake Bay and some of the area’s prettiest woodlands. Blending history, lifestyle, scenic splendor, and recreational enrichment, the development is an oasis, spanning well beyond that of an ordinary water community.
From this unique community comes one specific home that can only be described – cliché as it sounds – as a dream come true. Custom built and occupied by original owners, Dr. James Levy and his wife Joyce, this residence has nothing cookie cutter about it. From the moment the front doors open to reveal a dramatic two-story foyer complete with a curved staircase, the spacious nature of the home and the ornate detail that went into planning and constructing it speak volumes.
As aesthetically appealing as it is functional, the home is equipped with the finest of features. Showcased throughout the home are hardwood floors, top-of-the-line appliances, and a gourmet kitchen with Corian counters. The home also boasts lavish bathrooms, including a master bath with his and her vanities and a hot tub that lends itself to a private view of the Bay. A spacious three-car garage is attached to the home, while a detached two-car garage sits adjacent.
“One of the things that immediately caught my eye is that, although this house has an impressive – almost stately – interior and exterior, it has an inherent warmth about it,” said Jimmy White, the Long & Foster representative handling the offer for sale on behalf of the owners. “This type of comfort gives owners a unique livability in feel.” The home’s open architectural design is interspersed with custom structures, including an array of sculpted built-ins and magnificent window displays strategically situated to capture the beauty of the Chesapeake from every angle.
In-ground Pool in a Private Setting
Tucked in the home’s floor plan are a number of escapes as well. Whether wanting to relax in the cozy family room, enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee in the sunroom, or tap self-inspiration in the study, these rooms – complete with upgraded amenities and spectacular waterfront views – are certain to fulfill any quest. The upper level of the home has three bedrooms, including a spacious master bedroom with a private balcony overlooking the Bay. A huge bonus room, which could serve as a fourth or fifth bedroom, is also included.
Intricate planning is just as evident when admiring the property’s 2.95 acres. Professional landscaping integrates the property’s tall sea grass, billowing foliage, and accenting plant beds with a heated pool and private pier with lifts. The result? Tranquility, effortless beauty, and a soothing haven in which to admire Kent Island at its best.
Perhaps what sets this property apart is its breathtaking views. From all vantage points, the home offers a picture-perfect panorama. The front of the home opens to a view of Kent Island’s most serene woodlands, while its rear opens westward to the calm seascape of the Chesapeake Bay.
While gazing at the Bay, an eye may be drawn to the sailing of ships and cruise-liners making their way to and from Baltimore. The historic Bloody Point Lighthouse is also within close range. Built in 1882, the Lighthouse stands, slightly tilted, at 56-feet tall. Suspected to have earned its name from earlier days of upheaval involving English colonists, native Indian groups, and French pirates, this landmark is now closed to the public.
Endless Water Views & Breathtaking Sunsets
Along with the breathtaking waterfront and woodland views, the most brilliant sunsets can be seen day after day from the poolside patio or from any of the many rooms that open to the Chesapeake. “Every evening, Joyce and I looked forward to being greeted by the serenity of the sunset reflecting off the waters of the Bay,” said Dr. Levy. “As evening turns into night, we are also repeatedly smitten with the amazing view of the stars, often admiring the twilight skyline from the balcony off our bedroom.”
This home is simply a hidden treasure. With a rare individual style that gracefully exemplifies modesty yet charm, 209 Lighthouse View Drive complements Kent Island’s deep-rooted tradition and Bloody Point Farm’s unusual nobility.
For more information on this exclusive propery, including photos and a virtual tour, please visit my website.
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Homeowners often believe that winter is a terrible time to sell a house. The time leading up to Thanksgiving and ending at New Year’s day can be a very slow time for buyer interest and activity. Just too many distractions. But January and February can be a good time to have a well cared for properly priced home on the market. Typically there are fewer homes listed during this time meaning you will have fewer homes to compete with. The buyers who are looking at this time of year are generally serious prospects. They are out sloshing through inclement conditions and braving the cold. They often are being transferred to the area for work, or have finally sold a home they have had on the market and must get into a new home. Often the buyer may have been searching all year and is simply ready to finally pull the trigger. These are the prospects you want to see your house, ready willing and able prospects. If your home is not for sale they will not see it. Listing in January or February also gives you a little headstart on the rush of homes that normally hit the market in March and April. It provides your realtor time to get your marketing plan in action, to raise awareness of your home to other realtors through e-marketing, broker opens and lots of personal telling and personal selling. Once you have decided to sell your house and are trying to determine a good time to list it with a broker always remember,,, you can’t sell it if it’s not for sale.
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Welcome to the most exclusive gated, waterfront condominium townhome community in Kent Narrows. Only ten custom townhomes will be constructed, each with spectacular panoramic water views and each only steps from their own private boat slip in the Wells Cove Marina, conveniently located right next to your townhome.
Wells Cove offers two exciting, 4-story models: The Annapolis end unit and the St. Michael interior unit, each with spacious floor plans of up to 3,600 square feet of custom-built living space. For those of you who demand the same outstanding living space, but on a slightly smaller scale, The Cambridge 3-story end unit townhomes with up to 2,700 square feet of custom-built living space will meet your needs perfectly
It is not often that waterfront property of this caliber – so conveniently located to Annapolis, Baltimore and Washington – comes on the market. And with just ten condominium townhomes available, we anticipate demand to rapidly outpace supply. So, if you desire luxury living at its finest with a panoramic view of the Kent Narrows – including the view of your boat docked in your own private slip.
Prices start at $795, 000 For more information call Jimmy White at 410-320-3647 or contact by email or schedule a showing at Jimmywhite@longandfoster.com.
Every Saturday an Open House will be held.
To see more photos Click Here
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Located in the premier community of Southwind, well known for estate style waterfront homes, and sited on 1.5 landscaped acres this custom built home was designed to take advantage of the wide Eastern Bay water views. Recently renovated, this home provides over 5800 sq ft of living space with 6 bedrooms and 5.5 baths.
The first floor enrichments begin when you step inside. The architectural design compliments the well thought out floor plan conducive for entertaining or relaxing. This feeling is enhanced with cathedral ceilings, skylights, hardwood floors and walls of glass framing the water views. Preparing for meals will be an easy task in the fully equipped bright and open kitchen. Tailor made for effortless entertaining, the kitchen features rich custom cabinetry, beautiful black appliances and ceramic floors. Completing this home’s heart is the cozy breakfast area with water views.Among the many delightful spaces found in this waterfront haven is the master suite. Offering a private waterfront balcony, sitting area, well appointed master bath, cathedral ceilings, skylights and artful water views making this peaceful space memorable. Flowing ambience and restful pleasures beckon one to take respite in any of the 6 generously sized bedrooms. A large In-law, Au Pair suite offers full bath, sitting area, and private entrance. The ultimate appeal and attraction of this waterfront home is exquisitly crowned by its waterfront, with a rip rap shoreline and pier with
two jet ski lifts as well as a boat lift. Enjoy the Eastern Shore waterfront lifestyle and allure of this fantastic waterfront residence. Let it become the fulfillment of your dreams. To see this home and more pictures Click Here
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