Why Maryland?
Maryland may be one of the nation’s smallest states, but its borders are bursting with
beauty, action and diversity. From the Allegany Mountains in the west to the waterfront in Annapolis or Ocean City, recreational opportunities abound. Maryland has Bethesda for great restaurants, the nightlife of the new downtown Silver Spring, and the history of Havre de Grace. Visit Baltimore to catch an Orioles or Ravens game, or visit the Baltimore Zoo or National Aquarium. Shop for antiques in Kensington or Ellicott City or hike the Crescent Trail. No matter what you like to do, Maryland has just what you're looking for. It is also the proud home to some of the country’s most prestigious institutions, including
Johns Hopkins, the National Institutes of Health, the United States Naval Academy and the University of Maryland. Maryland is a great place to live. And let's not forget the crab cakes!
Maryland also has several programs that make it easier for you as a first time home buyer to afford your first home. The State of Maryland provides a form called the Maryland First Time Home Buyer Addendum which specifies who is considered a Maryland First Time Home Buyer and what savings they are entitled to when purchasing a home. These savings include an exemption of the State Transfer Tax which is 0.25% of the property sales price. There is also an opportunity to get additional savings including a reduction of 1% of sales price for the County Transfer Tax (Montgomery) and a reduction in $6.90 for every $1000 in sales price. However, these reductions are not guaranteed because they are negotiated as part of your sales contract. Be sure to tell your agent that you are a first time home buyer so you can discuss these options.
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