Thursday, November 21, 2013

405 Active Listings in Southern York County PA



Southern York County PA is located 30 minutes north of Baltimore County, just over the Mason-Dixon line. Southern York County has become home to many Maryland communters over the past 15 years. Communities located in Southern York County are Shrewsbury, Stewartstown, New Freedom, Red Lion, Dallastown, Felton, Glen Rock, Fawn Grove, and Delta. In recent years, Southern York County has welcomed additional shopping and entertainment options for people of all ages.

To check out all 405 current homes for sale in Southern York County click here.

The typical real estate transaction involves at least two dozen separate individuals – insurance assessors, mortgage brokers and underwriters, inspectors, appraisers, escrow officers, buyer’s agents, seller’s agents, bankers, title researchers, and a number of other individuals whose actions and decisions have to be orchestrated in order to perform in harmony and get a home sale closed. It is the responsibility of your real estate agent to expertly coordinate all the professionals involved in your home purchase and to act as the advocate for you and your interests throughout.  I would be happy to be your trusted source for real estate advise!

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Annual Train Display in Glen Rock, PA (Southern York County)


The Glen Rock Hose and Ladder Company's Annual Train Display begins Friday November 29th and runs every Friday and Sunday till January 5th. It is held at the Hufnagel Public Library at 32 Main Street in Glen Rock. Hours are Fridays 6p-9p and Sundays 2p-6p with a special Christmas Eve show from 9p till Midnight.

Admission is free However, donations are appreciated. They will also be accepting new unwrapped toys for "Toys for Tots" both during the show hours or at the Station.

Glen Rock, PA is located just over the Mason Dixon Line and is located in Southern York County, PA. The population of Glen Rock is roughly 2,000.


Monday, November 18, 2013

Luxury Homes in Southern York County, PA


The Luxury Home Market in Southern York County is improving. There are currently 39 homes for sale in Southern York County that are considered Luxury Homes. These homes have a list price of over $500,000, and often sell quickly because the inventory for these homes is typically lower in Southern York County than in other parts of the county.

What are people looking for in a luxury home? 

Designer kitchens, found in 65 percent of the residences.

About 89 percent of luxury homes had home entertainment rooms that can accommodate more than six people.

Security systems, in 86 percent of homes
Professional landscaping, in 67 percent of homes
Wet bar, in 57 percent of homes
Movie-theater-style seating in entertainment rooms, in 24 percent of homes
In-ground swimming pool, in 37 percent of homes
Hot tub, in 35 percent of homes

If you are interested in purchasing or selling a luxury home in Southern York County, contact me today!

Friday, November 8, 2013

Buying or Selling? We can help!

Buying or selling a home can be a very stressful experience.  Let us help you with your move by providing you with tools you need to purchase your next home with ease.  We will walk you through every step of the real estate transaction! 

3 Different Ways to Contact Us! 


2. Start your own Advanced Search: www.homesalesbymcbride.com

3. Or the old-fashioned way, give me a call: Josh McBride at 717-781-4723.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Reasons You Should List During the Holiday Season



You’ve heard it from real estate agents before. “The Winter season is slow.” Or, “No one is really buying or selling.” And even, “I’ll get started in the New Year, it’s a new start right?”


Wrong.





So without further ado, here are 10 reasons you should list during the Holiday Season.


10. By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the Spring, when many more houses are on the market for less money! This will allow you to sell high and buy low.


9. Even though your house will be on the market, you still have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days around the Holidays.


8. January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transfers cannot wait until Spring to buy, you need to be on the market during the Holidays to capture the market.


7. Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax reasons.


6. Buyers have more time to look for a home during the Holidays than they do during a work week.


5. Buyers are more emotional during the Holidays, so they are more likely to pay your price.


4. Houses show better when decorated for the Holidays.


3. Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home. Less demand means more money for you.


2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the Holidays and less competition means more money for you.


And the number one reason why your seller should list during the Holidays …

1. People who look for homes during the Holidays are more serious buyers!

Friday, November 1, 2013

Pricing Your Home to Sell


Getting ready to get into the real-estate market?

Most sellers today are nervous and unsure. They wonder: is taking a loss on our house inevitable?

The answer is no! 

A strategic sales plan, coupled with a smart buy in your new location will ensure that you recoup the maximum value for your home.

Consult with McBride Home Sales to ensure your house is priced competitively and well-staged. Why? Because while there are always three factors to getting a home sold—location, price, and condition—only two are under your control: price and condition. Of the two, which is more significant? Price. Remember that price will correct bad condition, but condition will never overcome a bad price.
Act fast. You’re in a race against time—the best price you’ll get in today’s market is the one you get now. If you wait, it will be lower. And every month the price on your home decreases, your costs remain the same. For example, Keller Williams research shows that sellers who listed their home at the price the agent originally recommended, sold the home 38 days faster. This is over a month of mortgage and tax payments! For a home that cost $200,000 at time of purchase, with 20 percent down and an interest rate of 6.5 percent, selling a month sooner results in a savings of $1101.31 for the mortgage alone, not including the taxes and insurance that the homeowner would be paying during this time.

Don’t worry about where the market has been, keep your focus on where it is going. The price your neighbor down the street got six months ago is not relevant in a market where your house is competing with others from all across town. Again, a local real estate agent will have the kind of long-term, wide-ranging data that will help you decide how to pinpoint your price with precision.


Move up. Whether you are moving to an area where prices are in a downturn, or dreaming of nicer, bigger, home in your own town, selling your house now can get you into the home of your dreams. Low interest rates are a great opportunity for a savvy homeowner looking to move up. Even though your house price may be lower than you hope, the smaller loss at sale can be made up by greater savings at purchase. For example, let’s take that same $200,000 home, and imagine that it has decreased in value by 5 percent, reducing the sales price to $190,000. At the same time, let’s imagine that you would like to move up and the $400,000 home you have been eyeing has also decreased by 5 percent. That’s a savings of $20,000, and it is a home that is likely to be better positioned for appreciation when the market rebounds.

Bottom line: don’t pit yourself against the market, work with the market to get the most out of your house sale.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Homes for Sale in Southern York County

Southern York County PA is located 30 minutes north of Baltimore County, just over the Mason-Dixon line.  Southern York County has become home to many Maryland communters over the past 15 years.  Communities located in Southern York County are Shrewsbury, Stewartstown, New Freedom, Red Lion, Dallastown, Felton, Glen Rock, Fawn Grove, and Delta.  In recent years, Southern York County has welcomed additional shopping and entertainment options for people of all ages.

For a list of current listings in Southern York County, visit my website!


Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Open House - October 19th at 319 Charles Street, Dallastown, PA

Please join McBride Home Sales as we host an Open House at 319 Charles Street in Dallastown, PA, on Saturday October 19th from 12pm-2pm.

Please visit our website for further information: http://www.homesalesbymcbride.com


Monday, October 14, 2013

Eagle Scout Project at Miller Park in Shrewsbury, PA

Thanks to the efforts of Life Scout, Daniel Snyder, Miller Park now has parking spaces clearly identified.  Daniel is a 17-year old Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop 24, which is sponsored by the New Freedom Lions Club.  Currently he is finishing up the requirements for the Eagle Scout rank while studying in a homeschool program, working at Freedom Armory, and playing soccer for Susquehannock High School.  Having 4 younger siblings who play sports for local youth sports organizations, Daniel has been to Miller Park on numerous occasions and noticed that parking lines would help maximize the number of vehicles able to park in the lot.  Seeing this as a way to help the community, he decided to paint lines on the parking lot as part of his Eagle Scout project.   He also painted parking lines and built an information signs at a park in New Freedom Borough.  With the help of the Scouts from his troop and his family, he was able to paint the Miller Park lot over two days.  Daniel stated, "This project helped me to appreciate the many steps involved in bringing a community project to completion.  I am very grateful for the assistance of Shrewsbury Township.  It has been a great experience!"

Friday, October 11, 2013

118 Covington Drive (Shrewsbury, PA)

Solid 3BR townhouse in quiet neighborhood located minutes from I-83 and the MD/PA Line. Property is freshly painted with a new front porch and private back yard. New Carpet installed in Living Room.



Interested in seeing this home?  Contact me today for a personal tour! 

Market Report for Shrewsbury, PA

The number of active listings in Shrewsbury (17361) increased by 40.4% from August 2013 to September 2013. This seems on target because the number of sales in August dropped by 75% from the previous month.  While these numbers might seem drastic, this is typical seasonal shift.  As people settle down from summer activites and start preparing for the winter, the home buying season typically slows down. 

The median number of days active properties have been listed is 33. This is significantly shorter than the national average. 

BIG CONCLUSION:  Now is a AWESOME time to purchase a home in Shrewsbury, PA. 

The percent of unoccupied properties is very low in Shrewsbury (17361) . It is -10% below the national average.

The percent of owner occupied properties in Shrewsbury (17361) is 12.15% above the national average

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Homes for sale in popular Shrewsbury, PA (Southern York County, PA)

Shrewsbury, PA is a sought after community in Southern York County, PA.  Just north of the MD/PA line, Shrewsbury is called home by many people who work in Baltimore, Maryland.  As a Realtor in Shrewsbury, my goal is to help you understand our community and what it has to offer.  Housing varies in Shrewsbury - from turn of the century historical homes to brand new construction, Shrewsbury has something to offer everyone!
To check out the current listings in Shrewsbury, PA visit my website!   www.homesalesbymcbride.com

Josh McBride
Realtor
717-781-4723 cell

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Thinking about selling your home?

Thinking about selling your home?  Wondering what your home is worth?  

I would be happy to show you how I can use my marketing system to help you sell your home!  I will give a solid market analysis for your property and advise you on a realistic price, and I will prove to you that you will not be disappointed by listing your property with me and McBride Home Sales.  
Once your home is priced to sell, my dedicated marketing staff will develop a complete marketing strategy around selling your home.  We will notify your neighbors, hold an open house and maximize your homes online exposure.  Your home will land on page one of google in a matter of days, so when someone looks for a home in your neighborhood, your home will show on page one of the search results! 
Once your home goes under contract, our team will help walk you through the negotiation, sales process and the closing.  We will be there for you every step of the way!  

Contact me today for a free Market Comparison Report.  



Josh McBride
Realtor
717-781-4723 cell

Friday, September 27, 2013

Is now a good time to buy?

Mortgage rate are a big player in determining how much home you can purchase.  I am asked by buyers often what I believe will happen with rates.  While I am not an expert, I do know a few people who are. 
Last week, at Keller Williams Mega Camp, Gary Keller and Jay Papasan talked about interest rates.  
Mortgage rates remain historically low, and only recently jumped to above 4 percent. In January, the 30-year mortgage went up by 1 percent. “That’s a 10 percent increase in the monthly cost of the home,” said Papasan. Or a 10 percent drop in affordability. “Don’t panic,” Keller warned. “Let’s get some perspective: I got into real estate during the highest interest rates ever. We were asking people to agree to 14 points on their mortgage and people still bought. Every market has their pros and cons."
So, if you ask the question,  "Is it a good time?" here is my answer:
If you are in a position where you will have steady income (what you make now for many years to come),  don't see yourself moving for 5 years, have money saved that you would like to invest, don't mind the extra responsibility of being responsible for home repairs, and like the idea of being able to generate equity (wealth), then yes.  Right now is a great time to buy.  With interest rates where they are, you may actually be able to pay less for a mortgage than you would for rent.  
If you are interested in finding out how much home you could afford, I would be happy to help you along the way!  Contact me today! 





Josh McBride
Realtor
717-781-4723 cell

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Good Seller Etiquette - McBride Home Sales Tips


Practicing good seller's etiquette - McBride Home Sales Tips 

When your house goes on the market, you're not only opening the door to prospective buyers, but also sometimes to unknown vendors, nosey neighbors, etc. As with any business transaction, there is an expected protocol to how sellers, buyers and their respective agents interact. Here are a few helpful common scenerios and how you should handle them.

The aggressive agent:
When your agent puts your house on the market, typically all promotional materials state clearly that your agent is the primary contact for buyers and buyers' agents. However, sometimes a buyer's agent will contact a seller directly to try to either win over their business or cut the seller's agent out of the deal. This is not reputable behavior and you should report it to your agent immediately if it happens to you. 

The unscrupulous vendor:
Have you ever started a business or moved into a new house and suddenly found your mailbox full of junk mail? Unfortunately, this also can happen when you put your house on the market. When you sell your home, it necessitates all kinds of new purchasing decisions and less-than-ethical vendors are keenly aware of this. Though MLS organizations enforce rules on how posted information is used, some companies have found ways to cull information from various sources to produce mass mailing lists. If you find yourself regularly emptying your mailbox of junk, let your agent know. He or she can tap the appropriate sources to prompt an investigation into the matter. 

The naive buyer:
Yard signs, Internet listings and other advertisements can generate a lot of buzz for your home. Some prospective buyers - particularly first-timers - will be so buzzed to see your home that they'll simply drop by. If this happens, no matter how nice these unexpected visitors are, it's best not to humor their enthusiasm by discussing your home or giving an impromptu tour. Instead, politely let them know that your real estate agent is in charge of scheduling tours and provide them with the agent's contact information. If you attempt to handle these surprise visits on your own, you might inadvertently disclose information that could hurt you during negotiations down the road.


If you are looking to sell your home in Southern York County, contact McBride Home Sales today!  I would be happy to provide a complimentary market report.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

What is my home worth?

Wondering what your home is worth?  If you currently live in Baltimore, MD or Southern York County, I am the guy to help you!  I am on a mission to help at least 10 people find out by the end of this week what their home is worth!  Inventory is coming down, which means I have more buyers than homes to sell!  Now is a great time to sell your home! 

The asking price you set for your home significantly affects whether you will profit in the sale, how much you will profit and how long your home will sit on the market. My knowledge of the overall market and what's selling - or not selling - will be invaluable in helping you determine the price. The objective is to find a price that the market will bear but won't leave money on the table. 

Not sure if now is the right time to sell?  Let's get together and crunch the numbers!

If you are interested visit my website: http://www.homesalesbymcbride.com/sell. If you are happy where you are, please pass along to your neighbors and friends!

Southern York County, PA - Community News

Southern York County PA is located 30 minutes north of Baltimore County, just over the Mason-Dixon line.  Southern York County has become home to many Maryland communters over the past 15 years.  Communities located in Southern York County are Shrewsbury, Stewartstown, New Freedom, Red Lion, Dallastown, Felton, Glen Rock, Fawn Grove, and Delta.  In recent years, Southern York County has welcomed additional shopping and entertainment options for people of all ages.
Here is a list of the community events in York County for October.  

OCTOBER Events in York County PA



Josh McBride
Realtor
717-781-4723 cell
homesalebymcbride.com

Monday, September 23, 2013

Home Prices - Where the Market is Headed

Last week, Keller Williams Realty held its annual, Mega Agent Camp.  At Mega Camp, agents from all over the county join to get insight into how top producing real estate agents have achieved their success.  Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, authors of the Millionaire Real Estate agent, also shared a look at what is going on in the Real Estate market. 
Here is a summary of what was covered on home prices.
"The annual pace of home sales in July was 17.2 percent higher than it was last year, putting the industry on pace for the best year in home sales since 2006. The last time we saw this number was 2003.
The monthly median home price in July was $213,500;  up 25.1 percent from January to July 2013. For 2013, the average median price YTD for 2013 was $198K. Though home prices have been increasing year-over-year for 17 consecutive months, that number still sits below the long-term 4 percent trend line."
What does this mean? There’s still room for prices to improve! If we follow the historic trend of sales prices increasing 4% each year, we are still behind where we should be.  The positive is, that we are improving at a steady pace.  
Real estate is a local.  The numbers above are national averages.  If you would like to learn more about the market trends in Southern York County, I would be happy to help you!  Check out what is going on in our current market at: Southern York County homes for sale


Friday, September 20, 2013

Market Report and Community news for New Freedom, PA (17349)

New Freedom is locatated in Southern York County, Pennsylvania.   A short drive up Interstate 83 from Baltimore, New Freedom is a small town that boasts lots of things to do!  As of the 2010 census, the borough had a population of 4,464. Once an industrial/railroad town, the community has evolved into a mostly residential town.  There are several great restaurants, trails for biking/running/walking and several community parks.

This weekend, New Freedom will be hosting a fall festival.  Lot's of fun, food, live music and games!  Most recently, the railroad that once ran through New Freedom has become active again!  Check out the train by visiting: http://steamintohistory.com

The estate market in New Freedom is also picking up some steam! 

The number of active listings in New Freedom (17349) dropped by 36.7% from the previous month. Inventory coming down means that buyers will have less homes to choose from and stable prices.  This could be a sign that it is a great time to list your home!  

The median number of days active properties have been listed is 83.  Only 4.1% are distressed listings.  With only 4.1% of properties being distressed, this means that prices are likely more stable in New Freedom, PA.  

The percent of unoccupied properties is very low in New Freedom (17349) . It is -10.88% below the national average.

The percent of owner occupied properties in New Freedom (17349) is 18.21% above the national average.

The median list price is currently $279,090. 

If you are interested in learning more about what your home is worth, feel free to visit my website homesalesbymcbride.com. I would be happy to create a market snapshot just for you!    

Josh McBride
Realtor
717-781-4723 cell

Thursday, September 19, 2013

This Month of Real Estate - September 2013

The top three updates sellers make in preparation for listing their house are fresh paint, new flooring, and updated light fixtures. Surprisingly, sellers spend more than two times as much money updating their house while they live in it than they do getting it ready for sale. To find out which updates matter most, contact me and I would be happy to help you figure out what updates buyers are looking for in Southern York County! 




Market Report for Stewartstown, PA

Stewartstown, PA is located 40 minutes North of Baltimore County, MD in York County, PA. Stewartstown, PA is often referred to as a bedroom community of Baltimore, MD. The population of Stewartstown, PA was 2,089 at the 2010 census. Stewartstown is often sought out when looking to buy a home because home prices tend to be lower than communities more central to Baltimore. A few key stats to know about Stewartstown: Median household income in Stewartstown (17363) is $80,565 with 102 households earning between $35,000 to $40,000 annually. The number of active listings in Stewartstown (17363) increased by19.6% from the previous month. The median number of days active properties have been listed is 97. The percent of unoccupied properties is very low in Stewartstown (17363) . It is -10.82% below the national average. The percent of owner occupied properties in Stewartstown (17363) is 19.21% above the national average. For more information, please visit my website: www.homesalesbymcbride.com

Sunday, September 15, 2013

319 Charles Street - Dallastown, Southern York County

Charming 3 bedroom home located in Dallastown just minutes from I-83. Fenced, easy to maintain backyard with patio and shed. Property offers on and off street parking. Home has central a/c and family room in basement. Newer flooring in kitchen with updated appliances. Perfect home for a first time home buyer! Contact me today if you would like to learn more!

Friday, September 13, 2013

Just listed! 1312 Weldon Ave - Baltimore

Charming Brick 3BR end unit on quiet street in Medfield. Many updates to the home including the roof, replacement windows, and hot water heater. Wood floors throughout the home are in good condition. Backyard/Pad is fully fenced. Claw tub with shower in bath. Great home with great schools in the area. Close to I-83. Home Warranty included.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Home For Sale -Medfield

New to the market this week! Charming Brick 3BR end unit home for sale on quiet street in Medfield. Updates to the home include the roof, replacement windows, and hot water heater. Wood floors throughout the home. Backyard/Pad is fully fenced. Claw tub with shower in bath. Close to I-83. Home Warranty included. If you are looking to buy a home, contact me today! For more homes like this, visit my website: www.homesalesbymcbride.com

Friday, September 6, 2013

Open House - 118 Covington Drive, Shrewsbury, PA 17361

Join me tomorrow in Shrewsbury for Open House at 118 Covington Drive, 12pm-3pm. Lot's of yard sales going on in the area too, so make a day of it!

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

4436 Raspe Ave - 21206

Large home for a small home price! Enjoy the quality & comfort of four finished levels, beautifully renovated to accommodate your lifestyle. Gorgeous granite eat-in Kit, built for cooking & entertaining. Finished attic makes for great rec room & fun! Finished Lower level added for even more room to play! Large corner lot ample yard space, deck & fenced yard! All new systems!                    

Real Estate Report Card for Shrewsbury, PA

Here are a few interesting facts about real estate in the community of Shrewsbury, PA. The number of active homes for sale in Shrewsbury, PA (17361) increased by 4.5% from the previous month. There are currently 29 active listings. The median number of days active properties have been listed is 38. This is significantly shorter than the national average. The percent of unoccupied homes is very low in Shrewsbury at 4.9%. It is -10% below the national average. The percent of owner occupied properties in Shrewsbury (17361) is 75.25%. This is 12.15% above the national average. To learn more or to search for homes for sale in Shrewsbury, PA - visit my website at www.homesalesbymcbride.com

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

422 Evesham Ave - 21212

Fantastic large colonial on spacious lot. Located within walking distance of Belvedere Square and 3 finished floors of renovated space. HW floors, granite/stainless and all the modern ammenities. Shows like a model home and is priced to sell. http://www.homesalesbymcbride.com/listings/pgn/2/minprice/175000/maxprice/300000/areas/5742/ *Home listed by Josh Mente & Associates*

Sunday, September 1, 2013

19225 York Road - Parkton, MD 21120

JUST REDUCED!! This is a Freddie Mac Homesteps Property. Large acreage and newer construction. Fabulous open floor plan that is great for entertaining. Large flat yard and secluded from the neighbors. House is a real value at this price. Make an offer while it lasts.

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Home for sale in Shrewsbury, PA!!

Check out a link below for a home for sale located in Shrewsbury, PA! Great location - close to 83 and less than one mile from shopping and entertainment.  Not sure if you are qualified?  Contact me and I can connect you with a top notch mortgage lender to help you get pre-approved! Shrewsbury real estate it hot!  Let me help you with your home sale or purchase!

Covington Drive Home for Sale

Friday, August 30, 2013

How is the real estate market in Southern York County?

As a Realtor, I am often asked, "How is the real estate market in Southern York County?"  I always like giving my clients and customers the tools they need to succeed.  Today, I am happy to present to you the Market Insider.  Whether you're a buyer or seller, the knowledge you gain will help put you in control of your real estate transactions.

Below is a link to the Market Insider.  Check it out and see if you like it.  You can register for free, and come back as much as you like to check out updated values.

What's my home worth?

Please keep me in mind for all of your real estate needs!  I am licensed in PA and MD, and work with buyers, sellers and investors!

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Southern York County Pennsylvania - Homes for Sale!

Are you outgrowing your current home?  Right now is a great time to move up.  Prices are stablizing and interest rates are still at record lows. I can help you sell your current home and find your next dream home!  Take a look at the current inventory in Southern York County PA, and contact me if you have any questions! 

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Home for sale in Dallastown, PA!

Charming 3 bedroom home located in Dallastown Schools just minutes from I-83. Fenced, easy to maintain backyard with patio and shed. Property offers on and off street parking. Home has central a/c and family room in basement. Newer flooring in kitchen with updated appliances.                              

 For more information check out my website:  www.homesalesbymcbride.com




Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Home for Sale in Felton, PA

You won't want to miss this one!  

Beautiful 3 BR, 1.5 Bath, semi-detached home located in country-setting just minutes from I-83.

Large, privately fenced back yard with patio that includes brand-new shed. Brand new furnace, living room carpet, kitchen flooring, and central a/c among the many updates that have been made to the home.

Large, newly finished driveway and 1 car garage. 

Homes only attached by garages. Please allow 24 hr notice for showings. 

Monday, August 26, 2013

Home for sale in Shrewsbury, PA - 118 Covington Drive

Solid 3BR townhouse in quiet neighborhood located minutes from I-83 and the MD/PA Line. This property is freshly painted with a new front porch and private back yard. New carpet was installed in living room 7/19/2013.  Find out more: http://www.homesalesbymcbride.com