After many wonderful years, the lon...

Note: If the slideshow fails to load, please reload the page.

This inviting second-level condo with elevator access, located at 5258 Glenthorne Ct. in Rosedale, features a spacious ope...

Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros about chimney and fireplace safety.

Many homeowners are delighted to have a fireplace and chimney to enjoy a warm fire on cold nights. However, maintaining a safe and efficient fireplace requires more than simply lighting a match. Neglected chimneys and fireplaces can pose serious risks, including house fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and structural damage. How can you maintain your chimney and fireplace this winter?

Schedule Regular Chimney Inspections

A professional chimney inspection is the cornerstone of fireplace and chimney safety. Professionals recommend scheduling an inspection at least once a year, ideally before winter begins...

Thanks to the University of Maryland/Maryland Grows for this article about why you should leave the leaves.

With the fall season, we are starting to see a lot of articles talking about the massive ecological and soil quality benefits of leaving leaves, stems, and sticks in our green spaces. As a biologist, I understand why doing so is indeed the right thing to do. However, I often face pushback on this topic from people I mention this to through my Extension work or just in my neighborhood. There are of course many barriers to adopting such practices that I have heard people mention. One that comes up often is the one that involves social or peer pressure...

We all experience change throughout our lives, and it’s a constant, often unpredictable part of our journey. Even when the change is welcome or eagerly anticipated, it can bring a wide range of emotions. Getting married, having a baby, or moving into a new house can be a stressor. Excitement and joy can be accompanied by anxiety and even fear of the unknown.

This month, I want to share some tips to help you navigate these transitions more smoothly. Whether you’re facing a major life event or a challenging situation, keep these strategies in mind. It can make the process a bit easier:

In addition, if you are looking to buy or sell your home, contact Gigi today.

Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros about the importance of professional gutter cleaning.

Leaves are falling, nights are getting cooler, and your calendar is filling up. Between pumpkin carving and preparing for Thanksgiving, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the exciting parts of fall. However, it’s also the time to start thinking about home maintenance, especially when it comes to your gutters. While cleaning gutters might seem like a task that can be tackled with a ladder and some elbow grease, there are many benefits to hiring professionals instead.

Prevent Water Damage and Protect Your Foundation

One of the primary purposes of gutters is to direct water away from your home’s foundation...

Thanks to the University of Maryland/Maryland Grows for this informative article about disease-resistant vegetables.

I mentioned in my post last month that many of the pepper plants I grew from seed this year were infected by bacterial leaf spot. I did my best to remove diseased material from the garden. However, undoubtedly some of it still lingers in the soil and might survive to infect plants next year, so I will plan to grow varieties that are resistant to this disease.

And no, I don’t just have a list of these varieties in my head. I’ll have to do some research. Maybe you’ve faced this problem too...

Thanks to L.K. Benson for sharing with us.

We often say that owning a diversified portfolio means always owning something you aren’t happy with. So far in 2024, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything in your portfolio like that. Every major asset class has posted positive returns this year, with many in double digits. In the third quarter, US Large-Cap stocks were up almost 6%, while US Small-Cap stocks were up over 9%. International developed stocks were up about 8%, and emerging market stocks were up close to 9%. After two straight quarters of negative returns, REITs bounced back in a huge way with a return of around 17%.

Compared to these stock market returns, you might think bonds would be the part of your portfolio you hate...

How a Real Estate Agent Can Help You

Moving to a new area can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with its fair share of stress. That’s where working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can make all the difference. With expertise and local insights, I can help turn your moving experience into a smooth and enjoyable journey.

As part of a network of trusted professionals located all over North America, I have the connections to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs, no matter where you’re headed. If you need a referral for an agent in another area, I’d be happy to connect you to one!

Reduce Relocating Stress with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

Wh...

Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros about how clean gutters are a part of enhancing curb appeal.

The Impact of Clean Chimneys and Gutters on Home Sales

First impressions are important, and nobody knows that more than real estate agents. Staging the interior and ensuring the landscaping is tidy are great steps in preparing a property for sale. Many overlook the importance of clean chimneys and gutters in enhancing curb appeal. After all, if someone hasn’t taken care of the gutters and fireplace, why would they be taking good care of other parts of the home? Here’s why paying attention to chimneys and gutters can make a significant difference in home sales.

Curb Appeal Matters

A whopping 97% of National Association of REALTORS members think that cur...