RICKY SUMMERS, REALTORREAL ESTATE CUMMINGS & CO. REALTORS* DOWNTOWN * WATERFRONT * LUXURY * RELOCATION * SALES * LEASING*Moving to Baltimore? Inspired by my own experience moving to Baltimore from Washington, D.C. in 2001, I became a Realtor. Who wasn't a Realtor? Everyone from the pizza delivery boy to the ice cream man was a card carrying Realtor. Houses were freshly listed at 9AM and sold by 12 noon. Any and everything was sold in hours if not minutes. In such a fast pace market who had time for home inspections, selling contingencies, financing contingencies, appraisals let alone questions regarding tax credits: federal, state, local historic, or financing options. Obviously as a first time homebuyer and brand new to Baltimore this was all "Greek" to me. I had more questions than Realtors had time or answers. Never had the axiom "Buyer Beware" been so true. Today we now see what a mess the frenzy of last "boom market" created. It takes more than having a license and a business card to be a Realtor. It takes skill and finesse to dissect the complexities of real estate and translate these details to clients in a language that is comfortable and accessible. I know that as a Realtor, the most valuable service I can perform is to take the time to educate my clients both buyers and sellers on all aspects of real estate. From home inspections, selling contingencies, financing contingencies, appraisals, tax credits: federal, state, local, historic, and financing options, it is my duty to ensure that my clients are well informed, so that when it’s time for them to make a decision regarding their real estate options they will know with confidence they are making the right decision…a decision that is in harmony with their goals and lifestyle. Take the time to do your homework. So that when the "once in a lifetime deal" comes along you will be prepared to make your move. Remember: You make your money in real estate not when you sell your home but when you buy it!