Shirley Mattam-Male, Realtor

These kitchen cabinet color trends are found in the most stylish homes. The key to superior storage? A healthy dose of personality! https://www.mcenearney.com/blog/5-kitchen-cabinet-color-trends-were-loving/

Once upon a time, when I searched for my first home, one of the realtors I hired would frequently show me properties that exceeded my budget. Frustrated, I finally asked her, "If I could afford a higher-priced home, wouldn't I have shared that with you?" Her approach only heightened my frustration and sense of inadequacy.

Because of this experience, I now make it a rule to tell my clients that I will only show homes within their budget or even 10% below their maximum to ensure they have room to compete. This strategy has pleasantly surprised many of my clients and fostered a positive home-buying experience free from unnecessary disappointment.

How do you know your home was worth what you paid? How did the bank determine if the loan was secured properly? How did the seller and their agent come up with the list price in the first place? ⤵️

The work of one person – an appraiser – answers the above questions!

👉 An appraiser is an independent, impartial, and objective professional in the mortgage transaction who develops a report that is a credible, reliable, and supported opinion of value. The work that they do has a direct impact on how much buyers might pay for a home and whether a loan may be approved at all for the property.

If you are considering selling or buying a home, here's what your future appraiser would like you to know!

https://www.mcenearney.com/blog/real-estate-appraisals-in-a-shifting-market/

With all the recent media attention, most people are already aware of significant changes happening in real estate this month. I feel compelled to clarify key misconceptions and provide accurate insights into how these changes affect the industry.

👉 I am committed to informing you about industry developments and their potential impact on your decisions. My priority is ensuring that both my buyers and sellers are well-represented and achieve their real estate objectives.

Please do not hesitate to call or send a message if you have any questions or need clarification.

If there's one thing we all know by now about summer in the D.C. area, it's both swelteringly hot and humid. ☀️

Fortunately, the greater DMV area is close to various beaches, lakes, and rivers, which are ideal for cooling off! Check out these top picks for a quick day trip—or weekend getaway.

https://www.mcenearney.com/blog/beaches-lakes-rivers-washington-dc/

📢 Hot off the press! 📢

Mortgage rates dipped to 6.62%! 😮

It's official! To see a conventional 30-year fixed mortgage, you'd need to go all the way back to the end of December 2023. Today's rates are already fairly close to those late-December levels. Any further improvement would result in the lowest levels since May 2023.

Homeowners insurance rates are skyrocketing!

Here's the scoop & tips to save:

📈 Why Rates are Rising:
• Increase in natural disasters (hurricanes, floods, wildfires)
• Higher construction costs
• Industry-wide financial hits

🌪 Top 10 States with the Highest Increases:
• Louisiana: 63%
• Nebraska: 61%
• Colorado: 49%
• Arizona: 40%
• Utah: 37%
• Illinois: 35%
• District of Columbia: 33%
• North Dakota: 33%
• Arkansas: 32%
• Kansas: 32%

📍 Interestingly, California is not among the top 10 despite its wildfire risks​ (Policygenius)​.

Overall Increase: From May 2022 to May 2023, the average home insurance premium rose by 21%, with some states seeing increases of 30% or more​ (Policygenius)​.

Even traditionally low-risk areas like Vermont and New Hampshire are affected by broader industry trends​ (Policygenius)​.

Comment "Homeowners Insurance" to learn more!

🏡 In this competitive seller's market, our delighted buyers secured a remarkable $25k seller subsidy towards their closing costs. Grateful for God's grace in the negotiation process.

This success underscores the importance of choosing the right partner in your real estate journey.

Based on a recent survey by Frontdoor, these are the most desirable home features in 2024. 🏡

What do you think? Are there any other features you would add to the list?

Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

Thank you to my client for the wonderful review and for putting your trust in me!

Looking to buy/sell this summer? I've got you covered! Send me a message and let's take the next step!

🌟 Honored to be Named on the Washingtonian Best List! 🌟

"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent ex*****on; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” - Aristotle-

Reflecting on nearly 19 years in the real estate industry, this profound truth has been the bedrock of my career. I strive to embody these principles both in my professional endeavor and personal life. Committed to transparency and driven by data, I empower my clients to navigate the real estate market with confidence to achieve their dreams.

My deepest gratitude to my clients, who entrusted me with their real estate dreams and honored me with their referrals to friends, family & mates at work.

Last but certainly not least, I thank God for His mercy and grace, which have been my constant guide.

I thank you for the honor Washingtonian

Open House Saturday 11-1 PM | 9602 Glassy Creek Way, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 | New Price: $3,600 a month

📍3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2,880 sq ft.

Welcome to this beautifully crafted three-level townhome with an oversized garage with a Level 2 (220 amp) EV charger. This well-designed home blends luxury and practicality, creating a comfortable living space.

The ground level is a flexible space with a full bath that can be used as a family room, recreation area, or office space. Head up to the main level, where an open floor plan offers comfort and style. Wood floors flow throughout, and natural light abounds. The kitchen is the star of the home with a large eat-in island that seats five or so comfortably + sleek quartz countertops, and top-notch stainless-steel appliances. Just outside the living/kitchen is a large deck - perfect for grilling & entertaining guests.

Upstairs are three comfortable bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite with two walk-in closets and a luxurious bathroom featuring a double-sink vanity and a large standing shower. A full hall bath and a conveniently located washer/dryer complete this level. Landlord will allow one pet under 25 pounds. Pet Deposit: $500 and Pet Monthly rent: $50 | Available for occupancy on July 1, 2024.

This home received nine offers the first weekend and escalated beyond anyone’s imagination!

It will be a record sale for the zip code!

All agents and firms have access to the same tools, but how we execute and deliver results makes all the difference.

Thank you to my wonderful clients for sharing their experience of working together.

Purchasing a home is a monumental decision, and I am honored to help each and everyone of my clients say "yes" to a place that is perfect for them.

If you are looking to make a move, send me a DM and let's chat! I would love to guide you through the process.

My two cents for today…

Just Listed! Open House Saturday & Sunday 12-2 PM!

Nestled on nearly half an acre, this elegant home boasts four bedrooms and 2.5 baths, complemented by a spacious 2-car garage and a fenced rear yard. The luminous kitchen is a culinary delight, featuring white cabinetry, exquisite quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. An outstanding feature of this home is the magnificent glass solarium adjoining the kitchen, providing a breathtaking woodland view that immerses you in nature. The house is accentuated by a vaulted ceiling, a gas fireplace, and abundant light, creating an airy and expansive ambiance.

The upper-level houses three generously proportioned bedrooms and 2 remodeled full baths. On the lower level, discover a spacious family room adorned with a large brick fireplace and a wood stove, offering a cozy retreat. This level also boasts a fourth bedroom, a tastefully designed half bath, and a well-appointed laundry/utility room. Outdoor living is equally impressive, with an expansive covered front porch/breezeway. The vast screened porch, accessible from both the living and dining rooms, offers an idyllic setting for entertaining. The surrounding patio and deck areas invite relaxation and outdoor gatherings. 11247 Handlebar Rd, Reston, VA 20191 | Offered at $894,500.

Honoring the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.

There is a joy I can't quite express well when serving the next generation. My client was in med school when I got her parents a lovely home. And now, many moons later, with a lovely spouse in tow, I was asked to find them a home. Loyalty is not often found in our industry, yet I find myself on the receiving end of grace.

I took great joy, like I always do, in serving them, and if I am so blessed, perhaps I will have the pleasure of serving their children in years to come.

I thank you for your love.

Insurance costs are going up through no fault of your own. A standard homeowner's to-do list has become much more complicated as larger insurance companies try to stem losses. I quote from an article published by on March 3rd, 2024 - aptly titled: 'Everything is rising at a scary rate': Why car and home insurance costs are surging"

#1 reason: Inflation. I am beginning to detest this word. Lending interest rates are up. Why? Inflation! My bread costs $85. Why? Inflation! (that is exaggerated, but you hear what I am saying)

#2 Natural disaster: Now, this I get. According to the article - there were around two dozen severe storms in the U.S. with billion-dollar price tags. The article continues to say: "While a lot of these storms don't make national headlines, they do tend to be very costly at the local level," quoted by a principal research analyst for insurance at the S&P Global Market Intelligence. The article continues to say. "Insurance companies insist they're just playing catch-up after two years of significant losses." Hmm!

If you were tuning in for a feel-good post - this was not it.

What do you think about this new truth of what is happening in our part of the world?

I have had the distinct pleasure of representing my clients for the third time in two years. Do you know why this job is so worthwhile? There's an indescribable glee in seeing the joy on their faces. While our clientele is the backbone of our business, the exhilaration of a job well done fuels my motivation to move onwards and upwards.

I had the distinct pleasure of representing my buyers in acquiring this home. Hearing their heartfelt desire to give their children the same wonderful experiences they had growing up in this neighborhood resonated with me. There was a shared sentiment that fueled our journey to closing.

A special mention goes to Danielle Wateridge Realtor, The Wateridge Group, who represented the sellers. What could I say that has not already been shared by others except that you can see God's hand in everything she does. I was blessed to have her on the other side of the transaction and witness her , , and .

I am truly honored to have been named a top-producing agent for 2023! The recognition is a testament to my clients' trust in me, and I am deeply grateful for their support. McEnearney's invaluable assistance has also played a significant role in elevating my small business and gaining recognition. So, thank you, McEnearney. Above all, I am thankful for the grace of God, which has guided me along this remarkable journey.

"Fasten your seatbelts. It is going to be a bumpy year.” Forgive me for taking liberty with your famous line. But, staring at this index, I am frustrated for all buyers who had hoped that inflation and rates were finally on their way back down. While we were not expecting to see any new firework this week, we got them anyway.

🎢💼

Chag Pesach Sameach!

Under Contract! My sellers are thrilled to have received a contract on their home after being on the market for just four days.

If you interested in learning about the real estate market or the home selling process, send me a DM 📩 and let's take the next step!

This lovely condo in Alexandria is now !

I'm so excited for my sellers, who are look forward to a quick closing.

Thinking of selling and want to learn more about the process? Send me a message and let's take the next step!

Just Listed and Open Houses Saturday and Sunday 2-4 PM!

This updated two-bedroom, one-bath corner-unit condo features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, two balconies, and a location right off King St and moments to 395! A key differentiator is that this unit conveys with an 8x8 storage unit that has an open market value of $14K.

Features:
• Open floor plan with Brazilian cherry hardwood floors
• Kitchen with plentiful white cabinets and stainless steel appliances
• Closets kitted out with custom shelving
• Wood blinds
• Primary bedroom with walk-in closet
• Expansive balcony off the living room + a smaller balcony off bedroom two

Updates:
• Fully painted (2024)
• Stainless steel appliances (2024)
• Hot water heater (2019)
• Brazilian cherry hardwood floors
• Bathroom updated with new lighting, vanity, toilet, faucet & shower head.

4551 Strutfield Ln, #4236 Alexandria, VA 22311 | Offered at $405,000.

Send me a message to schedule a tour!