Tuesday, July 14, 2015

16601 CAVALRY DR ROCKVILLE, MD 20853

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AV5QPV
Large stately colonial home on great lot. Updated kitchen, hardwood floors, brand new roof. Large fenced lot, screened gazebo 10X10, open pergola over 8X8 hot tub, 12X12 wood shed with electricity. Close to parks, ICC and metro.
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.00
Price: $515,000

For more information about this property, please contact Joe Buffington at 301-591-3920 or joebuffington@remax.net. You can also text 2912504 to 67299.


See more listings at: joebuffington.remax-centralatlantic.com


MLS ID: MC8691995

Saturday, May 9, 2015

23808 GRAPEVINE RIDGE TER CLARKSBURG, MD 20871

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/WGUNF9
Incredible opportunity with an open and airy floor plan. 10 ceilings on the 1st floor. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, pendant lighting and eat in area. Large Master Suite with private bath. 2 person shower is an oasis. 4th Bedroom converted to sitting room can easily be converted back. Finished lower level with wine cellar and entertainment room. Detached 2 car garage. 1st floor study
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.00
Price: $530,000

For more information about this property, please contact Joe Buffington at 301-591-3920 or joebuffington@remax.net. You can also text 2759178 to 67299.


See more listings at: joebuffington.remax-centralatlantic.com


MLS ID: MC8630850

Thursday, April 30, 2015

12 CRUSADER CT GERMANTOWN, MD 20874

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AAGYAV
Like no other home. Bright and open floorplan that feels like a single family home. This home is a breath of fresh air. Huge Master Bedroom with cathedral ceilings, 4 closets, and private luxury bath. Large bedroom on second floor. Renovated kitchen with granite, recessed lights and gas cooking. Gleaming hardwood on the first floor and new carpet throughout. Covered front patio.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3.00
Price: $300,000

For more information about this property, please contact Joe Buffington at 301-591-3920 or joebuffington@remax.net. You can also text 2734778 to 67299.


See more listings at: joebuffington.remax-centralatlantic.com


MLS ID: MC8619177

Saturday, February 14, 2015

5920 BETHLEHEM CT ROCKVILLE, MD 20855

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/ZMVMCK
Park setting, close to it all. Spacious lot & home w/ many recent upgrades is ready to move in. This home shows like a model. Updated kitchen w/ granite and tile as well as an updated Master Bath. Newer windows & roof too. Finished lower level. The home is situated perfectly on the 2.14 acre lot w/ lots of space in the rear & an elegant drive up the expansive driveway. So close to Rock Creek trail
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.00
Price: $700,000

For more information about this property, please contact Joe Buffington at 301-591-3920 or joebuffington@remax.net. You can also text 2563075 to 67299.


See more listings at: joebuffington.remax-centralatlantic.com


MLS ID: MC8554364

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

What you don't know about your garage door technician could cost you big bucks





Later, you learn that you paid $800 for unnecessary parts and ridiculous fees, when your local garage door dealer would've fixed your problem for $180.



"This problem happens more than it should," says Bill Gibson, CEO of Overhead Door Company of Lexington, Ky. "In the last 15 years, we've seen a nationwide increase in ruthless garage door repair companies that prey on people with garage door predicaments."



The problem is so widespread that it has been exposed several times on national television. "Dateline NBC," ABC's "The Lookout," and CBC's "Marketplace," (Canada) have all broadcast primetime programs of hidden-camera investigations that caught garage door repairmen gouging homeowners.



What can you do?



"Most garage door companies are honest and reliable business people who care about their customers and their communities," says Chris Long, long-time editor of a trade magazine for the garage door industry. Long offers some simple tips to help consumers find qualified garage door repair experts.



1. Get a second bid.



"With an online search, it's quick and easy to find a second garage door company to help you," he says. "A simple second or third bid may be the best way to find someone who will do the job right at a reasonable cost."



2. Find a member of IDA.



The International Door Association, is the only national association for garage door dealers. Its publications and conferences constantly promote professionalism, says Long.



Look for the IDA logo on the websites of local dealers. IDA members subscribe to the IDA Code of Business Conduct, which promotes fair and honest dealings, responsible conduct and professional business practices.



You can find IDA members in your area by using IDA's member search at www.doors.org or at www.garagewownow.com, the industry's home improvement website.



3. Look for IDEA accreditation and certification.



The garage door industry created the Institute for Door Dealer Education and Accreditation, offering a rigorous accreditation program for garage door companies and training, testing and certification for technicians.



"IDEA accreditation and certification is sought by conscientious companies that want to be among the elite," says Gibson, who is an accredited dealer with several certified technicians.



Red flags



Consumers should also watch for clues that can indicate a rip-off artist. Long suggests that you look for three particular clues.



1. Excessive advertising.



The top position on an online search does not necessarily indicate a reputable company. It merely indicates a company that has spent considerable effort on its search engine ranking. To find a reputable company, Long encourages consumers to look deeper into the top companies listed in your search.



2. Repair specialists.



For decades, the typical garage door dealer focused on sales and installation of new garage doors and openers. Service and repair was a part of the total operation. But now, says Long, some companies target the repair business only, knowing that consumers are less likely to get second bids for repair work.



"A full sales and service company with a long history in the community is likely to have a good reputation for quality products, competitive rates and expertise in repair issues," adds Long.



3. Are they truly local?



Many rip-off companies operate only with online ads, a cellphone, a pickup truck and no physical location. "Before you call, make sure they're a local company," advises Long.



"Check out their address using online satellite maps to see if the company is truly local. Good companies are proud to be reputable and active members of their communities."



Although there is no fool-proof way to find the best local company, consumers should take another minute or two before they make that phone call. By following these simple tips, you can greatly improve your odds of getting your repair done quickly, accurately and at a competitive price.



Tips to help your baby sleep through the night





Thousands of mothers across the country are in the same situation. Pampers recently sponsored a survey of more than 1,000 moms with little ones ages 3 and younger to find what they're doing so baby rests comfortably, even at 3 a.m., and mom and dad can enjoy that elusive full night's sleep. Here are some of their responses.



* Check the diaper. Surveyed moms said the leading technique to keep a baby sleeping at 3 a.m. is to wrap him or her in a dry diaper at bed time. To meet this demand and ensure dry nights, Pampers has newly designed diapers across its entire line that provide up to 12 hours of overnight protection assuring your baby a dry, comfortable sleep.



* Take a moment to cuddle. Spending time holding your child not only helps you develop a strong bond, it lets your baby unwind after a busy day of new sensations. Make sure cuddling time is soothing and relaxes your baby, preparing him or her for sleep.



* A little white noise never hurts. Eighteen percent of surveyed parents recommended sound machines. Remember that your baby was used to a lot of noise inside the womb and may have trouble falling asleep in total silence. Put your baby to bed drowsy but awake; this will help him or her associate bed with sleep and the sound machine will provide the necessary white noise he or she is used to.



* Make reading a routine. Your baby will fall asleep more quickly at night if you establish a routine that he or she can associate with sleep. Reading to your child can be a great addition to your routine. Read in a soft voice to sooth your little one and read for a set period of time, keeping the routine in place each night.



* Incorporate low-key music. If your baby does wake up in the middle of the night, engaging him or her in low-key activities will help baby return to sleep faster. Dim the lights while you tend to your baby, speak quietly and move slowly. If baby requires your presence for a longer period of time - such as for feeding - soft, smooth music is a great choice. It offers the low-key noise baby wants and is more entertaining for mom.



Helping your baby get a good night's sleep is crucial for their development and your health as well. Remember that your little one is flooded with new stimulation every day and the best thing you can do to encourage sleep is establish a soothing, comfortable routine for your child. To learn more about Pampers and the major, meaningful upgrades across its entire line of diapers, visit www.pampers.com.



Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Impromptu party planning: How to create great gatherings in 30 minutes or less



(BPT) - Parents have never been more crunched for time. Balancing work demands with parental duties is complex - 56 percent of working moms and 50 percent of working dads say they find it very or somewhat difficult to balance these responsibilities, according to a recent report about modern parenthood from the Pew Research Center. But just because you're time strapped doesn't mean you need to stress when it comes time to host after-school activities or weekend gatherings with friends and family. With a few key strategies, even impromptu parties are a snap to pull together.



Did your teen just call to tell you he's having the baseball team over for an Xbox live tournament tonight? Has a pop-up neighborhood party suddenly happened at your house? Did you forget about the Girl Scout meeting after school today? Whatever the reason, embrace spontaneous gatherings and go from zero to party in 30 minutes or less with these ideas:



Astounding activities



Great parties make everyone feel included, no matter how young or old. For spur-of-the-moment parties, gather your favorite board games and a few decks of cards to spread around on various tables. For outdoor gatherings, nothing beats classic lawn games like Frisbee, bocce, ladder ball or horseshoes. Groups are sure to gather to indulge in the fun, and lively conversation will inevitably follow.



To appeal to younger kids, create a makeshift theater stage with a blanket or shower curtain, and pile up costumes, hats and props. Even wallflowers are sure to bloom during this fun activity that inspires make-believe.



For teenagers, video games are ideal - just make sure your system, game options and high-speed Internet are ready for intensive group play and there are plenty of snacks on hand. Add some comfy pillows and throws so everyone can spread out and enjoy the friendly competition. Ask friends and neighbors to bring over their games too for even more variety.



Fantastic food



Time-crunched parents don't have to worry about fancy food when parties suddenly pop up; guests don't expect an elaborate meal. Take a no-nonsense approach by serving flavors everyone will love. Frozen appetizers you can pop in the oven and serve beside fresh seasonal items are ideal.



Bite-size foods are best for easy snacking. Bake some Farm Rich Mozzarella Sticks, which are made with 100 percent real mozzarella and lightly seasoned. Kids and adults alike will devour these snacks with a crispy coating and warm cheesy center. Add some zesty Farm Rich Jalapeno Peppers and everyone's taste buds will be dancing. These snacks, available at Walmart and other grocery stores, pair well with fresh seasonal fare, so set out fresh grapes or strawberries, juicy sliced melon or chopped veggies with dip - whatever you have on hand or can get quickly at the local market - and you'll have a spread that will disappear almost instantly.



Set the scene



There's no need to deep clean, but spending a few minutes to tidy up creates a welcoming environment for guests. Focus your efforts on areas where people will gather - like the kitchen, patio or living room. Don't forget to stock toiletries in the bathrooms, too.



If you have time, decorate for your last-minute shindig with simple yet clever decor. Hosting a video game gathering? Make a banner such as "Nelson's Awesome Arcade" and hang above the TV. Have memorable photos of your guests? Run a ribbon and attach photos side-by-side with clothespins so everyone can enjoy the fun imagery. Want to add a summer vibe to your party? Skip the florist and cut some fresh buds from your backyard. If you're stuck, a quick visit to Pinterest is sure to inspire.



When really strapped for time, skip decor and focus on the music - play songs everyone will enjoy and that reflect the theme of the party. Upbeat songs that embrace the warm weather always set the right mood. From the Beach Boys to the most current chart-toppers, some toe-tapping tunes will help guests get in the party groove.



With these tips and tricks, you'll throw a party or get together that'll make everybody happy. You'll stress less and no one will know you put the whole thing together in minutes.