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THE HOMEBUYER’S CORNER

Insights, updates, and tips for homebuyers and homeowners for all things home life. Learn more about design trends, Smart home tech, new communities, and more.

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Home Buying and Selling

Here I talk about all things relating to home buying and selling.

A picture of three single family homes being built with blueprints on a table outside on a sunny day with words on the image that says variance explained.

What is a variance in zoning and how it works

Understand what is a variance in zoning, when you need one, and how to secure approval quickly.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

5 days ago9 min read

A newly built single family home outside on a sunny day with blueprints laying on the grass in front of it with words on the image that says new home guide.

A Guide to Buying a New Construction Home in Maryland

Ready to buy new construction home in Maryland? Our guide covers financing, design options, and closing steps for a smooth purchase.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

6 days ago15 min read

A side by side photo of a new home being framed next to a resale home with words on the image that say build vs buy.

Build vs Buy a House in Maryland: A Homeowner's Guide

Deciding on build vs buy a house in Maryland? This guide breaks down costs, timelines, and customization to help you choose what's right for you.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 2115 min read

Blueprints on a table with keys and a calculator next to a small model house and a blue notebook that says first home guide.

How Do I Get a House? A Practical Guide to Homeownership

Asking 'how do I get a house?' This guide walks you through the entire process, from getting your finances ready to finding the right home and closing the deal.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 1716 min read

A single family home outside on a sunny day with words on the image that say zoning ordinance.

What Is a Zoning Ordinance and How It Affects Your Home

Curious about what is a zoning ordinance? This friendly guide explains zoning laws, how they impact homeownership, and what you need to know in Maryland.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 1513 min read

A street in a single family home community on a sunny day with words on the image that say HOA Guide.

What Is a Homeowners Association A Guide for Maryland Homebuyers

What is a homeowners association? Discover how HOAs work, what fees cover, and the pros and cons of living in a Maryland community. Get a clear, simple guide.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 1114 min read

Mortgage papers on a blue clipboard with a pen on top next to a small model house, calculator and notepad.

Mortgage Interest Rates Explained for First-Time Homebuyers

Our guide to mortgage interest rates explained. Learn about fixed vs. ARM, APR vs. rate, and how to secure a great rate for your new Maryland home.

Financial Tips to Buying a Home

Justin McCurdy

Dec 1017 min read

A picture of a granite countertop in a kitchen looking into a living room with words on the image that says quick move-in homes.

Your Guide to Quick Move In Homes In Maryland

Discover the benefits of quick move in homes in Maryland. Learn how to find and personalize your new construction home without the long wait.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 917 min read

A person with a clip board standing in a kitchen with words on the image that says punch list guide.

What Is a Punch List? Your Guide to a Perfect Home Finish

What is a punch list? This guide explains everything you need to know about the final walkthrough process to ensure your new home is absolutely perfect.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Dec 713 min read

A side by side picture of a single family home outside on a sunny day of the left side of the picture and papers with keys on top on the right side of the picture.

Benefits of Owning vs Renting: Your Friendly Guide to the Pros & Cons

Explore benefits of owning vs renting and see how each option fits your finances and lifestyle. Click to compare pros and make an informed choice.

Financial Tips to Buying a Home

Justin McCurdy

Dec 515 min read

Blueprints on a table outside with keys and a pen on top in front of a home with words on the image that says certificate of occupancy.

What Is a Certificate of Occupancy in Maryland

What is a certificate of occupancy? Learn why this document is your key to moving in and how the process works for Maryland homebuyers.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 2814 min read

Home closing paperwork on a wood table next to a small model house, book, pen keys and a blue book that says title insurance.

What Is Title Insurance Explained Simply

What is title insurance? Learn how this one-time purchase protects your new home from hidden title defects and ensures your ownership is secure.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 2716 min read

Survey equipment outside next to a land map on a sunny day.

What Is a Property Survey? Your Complete Homebuyer Guide

What is a property survey? This guide breaks it down for homebuyers. Learn about survey types, costs, and how to read the map before you buy.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 2617 min read

A single family being framed with a blue sign in front of that says structural warranty.

Structural Warranty for New Homes: A Homeowner's Guide

Understand what a structural warranty for new homes covers, how to file a claim, and how it protects your investment with practical tips.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 2414 min read

What Is Home Equity and How Does It Actually Work

Curious about what is home equity? This guide breaks down how to calculate, build, and use the hidden wealth in your home to achieve your financial goals.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 1716 min read

The Elizabeth Single Family Home in Trimble Meadows in Harford County.

Discovering the Trimble Meadows Community

Discover why you should build a single family home or townhome in Trimble Meadows now! Move in for $0! All Closing Costs Paid!

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 154 min read

A family outside looking at blueprints with a contractor in front of a single family home on a sunny day.

How to Choose a Home Builder for Your New Home

Learn how to choose a home builder with confidence. Get expert tips on research, asking the right questions, and understanding contracts for your new home.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 1417 min read

A streetscape of single family homes outside on a sunny day.

New Construction vs Existing Home in Maryland

Choosing between a new construction vs existing home in Maryland? Our guide compares costs, customization, and lifestyle to help you decide.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Nov 1316 min read

A picture of the outside of a single family home and an apartment building with words on the image rent vs. buy.

Is Renting or Buying Better in Maryland

Is renting or buying better? This guide compares the costs, lifestyle factors, and personalization options in Maryland to help you make the right choice.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Oct 3113 min read