Real Estate Agents get a bad rap sometimes. Okay, a lot of the time. We’ve heard the comments and remarks. We’ve read the Danger Report that our own association released to the world about our obstacles and threats. We hear people say they don’t need us anymore and that the industry has a low barrier to entry. Before I joined my first agency, the broker warned me that I’d be lumped in with the whole lot, good or bad.

I drove by the Cabin John Center yesterday after work to see if China Gourmet Bistro was having its Grand Opening as planned. The new sign was in place and there were six large bouquets of flowers and balloons set-up outside. This would be the third Chinese Restaurant in this location since we moved to West Bethesda in 2005.

Real estate agents and mortgage lenders will tell you not to buy a car in between the ratification of a purchase contract on a home and the day of settlement. Changing your credit situation during that period of time can have a huge impact on your home financing. So, when is the best time to go car shopping? Fellow consumer advocate, Mike Rabkin of From Car To Finish is the guest blogger here to answer that question.

You know that first really cold day of Autumn? The day that the sun is shining, but it’s cold and windy and it gives you a chill that you haven’t had in a long time. The day that as a child, your mom would have made you a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup…

Let’s be honest. Our parents are always looking out for us even when we don’t know it. They have cared for us and given us advice for many, many years. It is not surprising that you would like their advice when you buy your first home. It is likely that they have purchased a home before and they will be honest with you.