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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.

Papers on a wood desk outside in front of a single family home with words on the image that says closing costs.

What Is Included in Closing Costs for Homebuyers

Discover exactly what is included in closing costs with a simple breakdown of every fee, plus smart tips to help you save money on your new home.

Financial Tips to Buying a Home

Justin McCurdy

4 days ago14 min read

A picture of the inside of a bonus room in a home with words on the image that says bonus room.

What Is a Bonus Room and How Can You Use It?

Wondering what is a bonus room? Discover how this versatile space can become your dream home office, gym, or playroom and add value to your Maryland home.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

5 days ago13 min read

A map laying on a wood table next to a mug and laptop that says remote home buying.

How to Purchase a Home in Another State: A Simple Guide

Thinking about how to purchase a home in another state? Our guide breaks down financing, remote house hunting, and closing the deal from anywhere.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Feb 316 min read

A single family home outside with a paver brick driveway with a sign next to it that says property easement.

What Is an Easement on Property? A Guide for Maryland Homebuyers

Confused about what is an easement on property? Our guide explains easement types and how they can impact your Maryland dream home and customization plans.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Feb 115 min read

Blueprints outside on a table in front a single family home with words that say first home guide.

Your Guide To Buying Your First Home In Maryland

Our complete guide to buying your first home in Maryland. Learn how to prepare your finances, choose the right home, and navigate the closing process.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Jan 3115 min read

A man and woman standing outside looking at a single family home on a sunny day with blueprints in front of them and words on the image that says home buyer grants.

Your Guide to First Time Home Buyer Grants in Maryland

Unlock your dream home with first time home buyer grants. Learn about Maryland programs, eligibility, and how to get thousands in assistance today.

Financial Tips to Buying a Home

Justin McCurdy

Jan 1815 min read

A clipboard with paper next to a tap measure outside in front of a single family home with a blue sign that says home appraisal guide.

What Is a Home Appraisal? A Guide for Today's Homebuyer

Confused about what is a home appraisal? Our guide breaks down the process, costs, and key factors so you can navigate your home purchase with confidence.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Jan 1313 min read

Blueprints on a wood table in front of a single family home outside on a sunny day with words on the image that say model home guide.

What Is a Model Home and How Does It Work?

Ever wonder what is a model home? This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from smart touring tips to understanding what's included before you buy.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Jan 1013 min read

What Is Debt to Income Ratio and Why It Matters for Homebuyers

What is debt to income ratio? Learn how lenders use DTI to approve mortgages, how to calculate yours, and simple strategies to improve your number.

Home Buying and Selling

Justin McCurdy

Jan 215 min read

A single family home being framed outside on a sunny day with words on the image that says construction financing.

Your Guide to Construction Financing Options in Maryland

Unsure about construction financing options? This guide breaks down loans, costs, and a simpler path to building your Maryland dream home. Let's get started.

Financial Tips to Buying a Home

Justin McCurdy

Dec 30, 202515 min read

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

Dec 23, 20259 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

Dec 22, 202515 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 21, 202515 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 17, 202516 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 15, 202513 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 11, 202514 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 10, 202517 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 9, 202517 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 7, 202513 min read