The Drinks

1. Spiked lemon tea and a little orange crush.

The Sagamore Spirit team offers a selection of their craft cocktail lineup, including the Lemon Tea Fizz, the Orange Crush, and the Honey Paloma.

2. Wine down time.

Wine lovers, choose from Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Grenache-Syrah Red Blend.

3. A craft brewer’s dream.

UNION Craft Brewing offers their Zadie’s, Duckpin, and Divine craft beers, in addition to Peabody Heights Brewery’s Mr. Trash Wheel’s Lost Python IPA and Astrodino Hazy Pale Ale.

4. Hydration station.

Of course, soft drinks and water are available for our non-drinkers and designated drivers.

The Treats

5. We all scream for ice cream!

Try custom scoops from Baltimore in a Box Ice Cream and vegan scoops from Cajou Creamery.

6. Cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and cheesecake.

Enjoy birthday cake selections from Buns & Roses Chimney Cakes, Codetta Bake Shop, Hiatus Cheesecake, My Desserts Diva, Our Time Kitchen, Beye’s Beignets, and Sistah’s Sweets.

7. More cookies than a cookie jar.

If you don’t like cake and ice cream, Natasha’s Just Brittle and Sweet Smith’s Bakery have you covered with freshly baked cookies.

8. Edible Bark?

MFG Toffee Bark Co brings us English Walnut Toffee and Italian Cappuccino Toffee.

The Birthday Gift Shop

9. Free shopping, thanks to our sponsors.

Win gift cards to Milk & Ice Vintage, Fells Point Surf Co., Pandora’s Box, Station North Tool Library, Niecy’s Fabulous Juice Bar, The Paper Herald, Atwater’s, Restore Hyper Wellness, R. House, Chateau MarMutt, Greedy Reads, and Mera Kitchen Collective.

10. More tickets than Stubhub!

Take advantage of free memberships and ticket sets (in twos or fours) for all your favorite places like Port Discovery Children’s Museum, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Baltimore Museum of Industry, The Baltimore Orioles, The Charmery, The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, Sagamore Spirits, and The National Aquarium.

11. Take the bar home with you.

Enjoy a complimentary bottle of private single barrel bourbon from Blue Pit BBQ, a Bottle of single malt, aged Caribbean rum from Old Line Spirits, or a bottle of Sagamore Spirit Rye (and more) from Sagamore Spirits.

12. Merch for days.

We’ve got custom Baltimore merch from your favorite creators like From Baltimore with Love, Su Casa Furniture, Fells Point Surf Co., Wight Tea Co., Tiny Dog Press, Found Studio, LLC, Atwater’s, The Baltimore Orioles, Hon’s Honey, Chateau MarMutt, and Sagamore Spirits.

13. Staycation, anyone?

Win a night’s stay in a King Monument guestroom with complimentary valet parking from Hotel Revival or a night’s stay and poolside cabana from the Sagamore Pendry Hotel.

The Vibes

14. True Baltimore Club energy.

Baltimore native, DJ Tanz, is coming through with all your favorite hits so you can Park Heights Strut all night long!

15. The best views.

This year’s Birthday Bash is on the 5^th floor of the new Rye Street Market in the heart of Baltimore Peninsula. The views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor from the balcony are immaculate.

16. All your old friends

With nearly 1,000 people in attendance, you’re bound to run into an old pal…

17. A bunch of new friends

…or make a few new ones!

18. Baltimore City’s latest homebuyer, Mayor Brandon Scott, and your elected community officials.

Say hello to the mayor, delegates, council members, and more! We’re celebrating Baltimore’s birthday; why wouldn’t they be there?

19. Paparazzi?!

Smile and get ready to be caught on camera! This event will be filmed and shared.

But wait, there’s more!

20. Birthday surprises we can’t even discuss…

Not much to say here. You’d have to show up to find out! Get your tickets now, and don’t miss Baltimore’s biggest party!

The post 20 Things You Can Expect from Baltimore’s Birthday Bash 2023 appeared first on Live Baltimore.

What is a community land trust, you ask?

A community land trust, or CLT, is a unique model of shared ownership where a nonprofit organization acquires and holds land in trust for the benefit of the community. This allows Individual residents or organizations to purchase homes or buildings on the land at a lower cost, ensuring long-term affordability, community stewardship, and equitable access to housing.

Here are a few of the ways Baltimore City residents benefit from the North East Housing Initiative and a CLT:

1. Permanent Affordable Housing

A primary focus of the North East Housing Initiative is to address the need for permanently affordable housing in Baltimore City. Unlike traditional rental housing, where residents may face the risk of eviction or displacement due to rising rents or changing ownership, CLTs offer a sense of permanence and stability by making homeownership more attainable in underserved communities.

2. Financial Counseling and Homebuyer Education

Recognizing the importance of financial literacy and stability, NEHI provides comprehensive financial counseling and homebuyer education programs. These initiatives aim to empower individuals and families with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions.

3. Wealth Building

NEHI’s community land trust model incorporates mechanisms to foster and support resident wealth building. For instance, when a resident decides to sell their home, the CLT’s resale formula ensures the home remains affordable for future buyers, helping residents build equity and accumulate wealth over time.

4. Community Development

NEHI understands that vibrant communities are built on a foundation of strong, engaged residents. By organizing events and volunteer opportunities, NEHI encourages community members to unite, share resources, and build lasting relationships.

5. Stewardship and Sustainability

Another important service offered by NEHI is its stewardship program. This program assists homeowners by helping them transition from renting to homeownership and providing resources and technical expertise to address home maintenance issues.

The North East Housing Initiative exemplifies how a dedicated organization can offer an innovative approach to affordable housing and community development. Through its comprehensive approach, NEHI addresses immediate housing needs and fosters long-term sustainability and community empowerment. To learn more about NEHI’s community development programs and services, visit their website!

The post Enhancing Communities: Exploring the North East Housing Initiative (NEHI) appeared first on Live Baltimore.

1. Unique Home Styles

One of the first things you’ll notice about this neighborhood is the variety of home types to choose from. Whether you’re into tudors, rowhomes, detached single-family units, or even apartment living, there’s a little something for every taste. Most notable, though, are the neighborhood’s charming signature A and B-style cottage homes.

2. Helpful, Friendly Neighbors

Your new neighbors in Lake Walker will be your biggest support system when acclimating to your new community. Residents like Edward Chupein, Lake Walker Community Association Board President, and his wife Stephanie Chupein, Lake Walker Welcoming Committee Chair, make it a point to try and welcome all new residents and provide pertinent community information. In addition to this, the neighborhood is peppered with artists, teachers, small business owners, skilled tradespeople, retirees, and young families who take pride in uplifting their community.

3. The Lake Walker Community Association

The Lake Walker neighborhood boasts a very active and organized community association that aims to unite neighbors and continue the betterment of the neighborhood. The Lake Walker Community Association includes four board members, eight committees, 31 block captains, and about 125 due-paying members. The association also produces and distributes quarterly newsletters to more than 700 residents in the area, informing them of upcoming events, Lake Walker history, and community resources.

4. Rich Traditions

The tight-knit residents of Lake Walker have created and shared several traditions throughout the years that have grown to become staple components of the neighborhood. Some of these traditions include The Annual Chili Cookoff, The Sidewalk Art Contest, Dumpster Day, and more. A well-known tradition, The Lake Walker Block Party, was once a small potluck formed by longtime resident Jim Pickett. Now, the event has grown into a full party and sees more than 250 residents in attendance! Another staple tradition, which began with Jim’s wife, Deb Pickett, is the Lake Walker Plant Exchange. Here, neighbors meet to exchange full-grown plants, seeds, and knowledge of non-invasive gardening practices.

“Well, when I first moved here, they had a crab feast… There wasn’t much circulation and getting to meet different people. So I decided to start a block party. The first thing I did was recruit people to help and have a committee… it was a real shoestring thing, but it got very popular… Anyway, now it’s a big deal, 250 people, renting tables and chairs and music and food.”

-Jim Pickett, LWCA Block Captain Chair

5. An Abundance of Green Space

In addition to the many gardening enthusiasts in the area, Lake Walker is home to lots of lush lawns and beautiful Sycamore trees. Although you won’t find a lake here, the neighborhood is named after the two streets which form its boundaries, Lake Ave and Walker Ave, residents. In addition, residents take pride in the small stream which runs within the neighborhood and have lovingly named it Walker Run.

6. Convenient Nearby Amenities

The Lake Walker neighborhood is close to Belvedere Square, York Road Plaza, and Anneslie Shopping Center, where many residents go for shopping and entertainment. Many Loyola University and Goucher College students and faculty call Lake Walker and surrounding neighborhoods home. The area is also home to one of only a handful of Buddhist temples in Baltimore City, Kadampa Meditation Center Maryland!

After our team experienced Lake Walker through the eyes of the residents who truly loved it, many of us were tempted to pack up and move! The beautiful homes, the lush lawns, and the hospitality and friendliness of the neighbors blew us away. Don’t just take our word for it; go out and see for yourself! Feel free to browse our neighborhoods page to learn more about Lake Walker and other neighborhoods like it.

The post 6 Reasons Why Lake Walker Could Be Your Perfect Neighborhood appeared first on Live Baltimore.

How long have you lived in Baltimore City?

April 2023 will mark a full year!

Which neighborhood do you currently live in?

Canton

Are you a homeowner or a renter?

Homeowner

If you had to live in a different Baltimore neighborhood, which would you choose and why? (Pretend money is no object.)

I absolutely love Canton—but as a wholly practical choice, I may consider living in Mount Vernon to be closer to work. However, I do love my 3-mile walking commute every morning.

What’s the best thing to do in Baltimore city on a Saturday night…go!

Trying out a new bar or restaurant (or bar AND restaurant) with friends! This city is definitely not in short supply in either category—and much like the neighborhoods—each bar and restaurant seem to have its own vibe, which I love exploring.

What is still on your Baltimore “to-do” list?

Ummm…everything! I still have a lot of things to do, but I am trying to leave the more touristy things to experience when we get out-of-town visitors. I still need to visit and do a taste test at the Sagamore distillery (and others I come across). I still have a lot of museums to cross off the list as well, not to mention a quest to find the best Chinese, Thai, and Indian restaurants in the City. I’m not in any rush to cross these items off my list since I plan to stay in Baltimore for a very long time.

Who is your favorite Baltimore mascot: Mr. Boh, the oriole bird, Poe (the raven), or someone else?

I have to say Mr. Natty Boh is my favorite. We have a complicated relationship of sorts. The first time I saw him (not knowing anything about him or Baltimore), I thought he was a two-eyed rip-off of the Pringle’s man. Not a great first impression. But as a figure that resides in the Natty Boh Tower in the neighboring Brewers Hill, I took it upon myself to learn the truth and educate myself on the Baltimore legend! I was pleasantly surprised—and relieved—to know that Natty dates back to the 1930s, way before the Pringles logo was developed in 1967. Natty Boh has since won his way into my heart (although I do miss his neon winks).

What one piece of advice would you give to someone moving to Baltimore from out of town?

Don’t let the Baltimore-based David Simon shows be the only impression you get of this beautiful city. Come see for yourself everything Baltimore offers—and you’ll find that it’s a lot.

What do you love the most about the city?

The absolute most? That it’s so walkable! I can walk to the grocery store, pharmacy, waterfront, park, work, movie theater, bars, and restaurants, and more. While I have a vehicle, it stays parked for the most part. It’s been a dream to find a city that is so accessible—a true walker’s paradise!

What is your preferred mode of transportation?

My feet, for the most part. The second most preferred is the bus (hot tip: ensure you get the Charm Card and Transit apps to make riding the bus as easy as pie).

What is your favorite feature of the city?

I love being able to walk along the water in the Harbor.

Besides live Baltimore, what other local nonprofits do you support?

So far on the list are Friends of Patterson Park, Creative Alliance, American Red Cross, and WYPR.

What’s your favorite outdoor city activity?

Stoopin’. Our neighbors introduced us to the concept the first day we moved in, and we haven’t looked back.

What is your superpower?

I can say a lot without saying a single word. It’s all in the face—for better or worse.

Which Baltimore celebrity (past or present) would you most like to have dinner with?

Definitely, Mr. Poe. I love the dark and brooding types.

What is your favorite locally-made product?

I can eat Berger Cookies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What is one thing you want the world to know about Baltimore?

Baltimore is a city of open arms. It welcomes those from all walks of life, and it doesn’t take long for it to feel like home.

What is one thing you’d still like to learn about Baltimore?

A person can live a lifetime and still have things to learn about this City. The one thing that is definitely on my list is learning about the history of how the neighborhoods (all 278 of them) got their names.

What three words best describe your work personality?

Focused, creative, practical.

What excites you most about joining the Live Baltimore team?

Being with an incredible group of people who are all committed to an impact in our community.

We’ve had fun introducing you to our new colleague! Look for more installments of this series in the future as our team continues to grow. You can read more about Canton on our Neighborhoods page.

The post 20 Questions with Suzi Senna appeared first on Live Baltimore.

Industry-leading professionals congregated at this private event to:

• Hear from an expert-led panel about exciting new development projects in Baltimore City.
• Connect and network with Baltimore real estate professionals.
• Learn which neighborhoods offer the most, highest value, and fastest sales in Baltimore City.
• Receive a copy of the exclusive 2022 Baltimore City home sales report.

Take a look at five major takeaways from the event—some potentially impacting the state of the 2023 housing market and beyond.

1. We’re Going to Need a Bigger Room!

The State of the City Market 2022 update posed a new challenge for the Live Baltimore staff. The event was now in person for the first time and, although it was invite-only, was sold out for weeks! On a cold, rainy Tuesday morning, Live Baltimore partners, supporters, and staff met at Hotel Revival in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood to support, network, and learn with one another.

Some notable attendees include Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development Commissioner Alice Kennedy, President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) Colin Tarbert, and various Baltimore City Planning Department members.

2. Significant Homebuyer Interest in Baltimore City Continues into 2023

We all remember the 2021 housing market. It produced the highest number of purchases and the most properties purchased since 2010, and 2022 was a close second!

“While 2022 wasn’t quite the record-breaking year that we had in 2021, there is plenty to celebrate about the last 12 months of Baltimore City’s residential real estate market.” –Annie Milli, Executive Director at Live Baltimore

The 2022 Baltimore City housing market saw 9,498 home purchases, surpassing $2.3 billion in total sales. This was the second time in Baltimore City’s history that multiple listed sales exceeded $2 billion in transactions, only a 10% decrease from the previous year.

3. Construction is Underway for 458 Unique Units in South Baltimore

Jay Sapperstein, Development Manager at 28 Walker Development, was among our panel of experts to discuss his current residential developments in Locust Point. After seeing the success of McHenry Row, 28 Walker Development decided to bring two new projects to the area, Locke Landing and Banner Row Townhomes.

Banner Row Townhomes, currently in phase two of construction, has garnered immense popularity, selling all 50 units from phase one within three months of entering the market. Additionally, the Locke Landing development will introduce 400 new single-family properties to the area in various sizes, including 16-, 20-, and 24-foot-wide townhomes and two-over-two condos by early 2024.

4. West Baltimore Expecting 120 New Townhomes by the end of 2023

The second member of our panel of experts was Theresa Stegman, Development Director at MCB Real Estate LLC, who discussed redevelopment plans for Madison Park North in West Baltimore. Phase one of this project, which is currently under construction, expects 120 new townhomes in the 800 block of North Avenue by Fall 2023. Some additional features for these homes include a rooftop deck, a single-car garage, and the option to choose your finishes.

Phase two of the Madison Park North redevelopment will make way for a 200-unit apartment building above a grocery store and other street-level retail businesses. Construction of phase two is expected to begin in early 2024.

“It’s going to be a true ‘live, work, play’ community, and it’s going to really anchor the eastern end of the North Avenue corridor.” –Theresa Stegman

5. New Infrastructure Work to Begin in East Baltimore this Summer

Our final two expert panelists include Khalil and Kyara Uqdah, 10-year veterans in real estate investment and home rehabs, and the founders of Charm City Buyers. This rehabbing duo has partnered with Mayson Dixon Properties & Development to form Eager Park Partners LLC, a local black-owned and woman-owned development firm.

“We take vacant houses, and we turn them into homes.” –Khalil Uqdah

Eager Park Partners LLC is slated to produce 54 new townhomes in the East Baltimore Development Inc (EBDI) footprint of East Baltimore. This summer, look for infrastructure work in the Eager Park and Broadway East areas. This project plans to begin construction in early 2024, with completed homes entering the market in 2025.

Want to watch the State of the City Market update for yourself? View the full presentation below. If you would like a copy of the 2022 Live Baltimore Home Sales Report, please email media@livebaltimore.com.

The post 5 Things We Learned from Live Baltimore’s 2022 State of the City Market appeared first on Live Baltimore.

1. Only Consulting One Lender

Whether you’re purchasing your first home or your fourth, it is always recommended to speak with more than one mortgage lender before making your final decision. Each lender offers their own mortgage products, so speaking to different lenders will expose you to various programs and perspectives. Additionally, not all mortgage lenders have experience with homebuying incentives. So, you could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table! Take the time to find the right lender with the best products to fit your needs.

2. Assuming You Need 20% Down

A major barrier to new homeowners is the assumption that they need to save tens of thousands of dollars for a down payment to make a purchase. While there are many pros to saving a 20% down payment, it isn’t required. Depending on your mortgage product, you may even qualify for no down payment at all! Finding a mortgage product that allows a low-cost or no-cost down payment can fast-track your journey to homeownership.

3. Ignoring the Neighborhood

Location, location, location! We’ve all heard the phrase before, but it’s still easy to overlook. Choosing your dream neighborhood is just as important, if not more, as finding your dream home. Each of Baltimore City’s 278 unique neighborhoods has something to fit everyone’s needs. Do you need to be closer to work or your child’s school? What amenities would you like near you? Do you use public transportation, or do you prefer to drive? These factors, and others, are all important variables to consider when choosing your perfect neighborhood.

To better assess your must-haves in a dream home, neighborhood, or mortgage lender, visit our website to create a Personalized Moving Planner. To learn more about homebuyers’ common mistakes, watch the latest recording of our 10 Common Homebuying Mistakes to Avoid Virtual Workshop.  Get a leg up on your homebuying journey with us in this virtual workshop!

The post Three Popular Mistakes New Homebuyers Make in Their Journey to Homeownership appeared first on Live Baltimore.

1 – Assess Your Needs

First things first, what do you need out of your new home? Not to toot our own horn, but our Neighborhoods web page is one of the best resources for information on Baltimore’s 278 unique neighborhoods! Narrow down your search by choosing your desired vibe– artsy, historic, kid-friendly, lively, by the water, etc., and get an in-depth breakdown of each neighborhood. Learn about nearby amenities, median home values, estimated mortgages, housing styles, real estate agents who service the area, neighborhood schools, and more.

2 – Create a Resident Profile on LiveBaltimore.com

Now that you know what you need, let us get you started! Create your Personalized Moving Planner on LiveBaltimore.com to get recommendations on neighborhoods, financial incentives, real estate partners, and schools that uniquely meet your needs.

3 – Attend Homeownership Counseling

Homeownership counseling agencies offer homebuyer services to help determine if you are ready for homeownership, review and address credit issues, aid with applying for homebuying incentives, and more. A homeownership counseling certificate is required to receive almost all Baltimore City homebuying incentives.

4 – Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval

Knowing how much you can afford to spend on your new home is one of the most important things to know. However, it can also be one of the most overwhelming. That is why it is recommended to speak with at least three reputable mortgage lenders to find the best mortgage product for you– especially those familiar with homebuying incentives.

5 – Find a Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents have proprietary homebuying knowledge and resources that aren’t available to the average house hunter. Best of all, they cost nothing to the homebuyer utilize. All you need to do is know your must-haves, desired location, and budget; they will take it from there!

6 – Attend Live Baltimore’s Trolley Tour

Live Baltimore’s Trolley Tour is a premiere homebuying event intended to:

• Educate homebuyers
• Connect homebuyers with knowledgeable real estate professionals
• Show off Baltimore City neighborhoods and amenities
• Qualify homebuyers for the Buying Into Baltimore $5,000 incentive

Trolley Tour allows you to accomplish many of these steps in just one afternoon.

7 – Make an Offer

You’ve got the money, and you’ve found the perfect home in the perfect neighborhood, ‘nuff said. Snatch it up while you can!

The End…?

In a perfect world, your first offer would be accepted, and you’d immediately move into your new home. However, we know the world isn’t perfect, and there are a few more steps you must take before moving day, like getting homeowners insurance, getting the home inspected, and securing a title. Luckily for you, we have you covered there as well! Live Baltimore partners with trusted homebuyer resource providers to ensure you are supported, even after signing your contract.

Stay up to date with Live Baltimore events to ensure you have all the tools you need for homebuying success!

The post 7 Steps to Making an Offer on Your Baltimore City Dream Home! appeared first on Live Baltimore.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN BALTIMORE/WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE?

Just over two years, I moved to Baltimore City in August 2020.

WHICH NEIGHBORHOOD DO YOU CURRENTLY LIVE IN?

Patterson Park

ARE YOU A HOMEOWNER OR A RENTER?

I am technically a renter. But I rent from my sister and take care of the house maintenance, so you could say I am a homeowner.

IF YOU HAD TO LIVE IN A DIFFERENT BALTIMORE NEIGHBORHOOD, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE (PRETEND MONEY IS NO OBJECT)?

Mount Vernon or Charles Village.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BALTIMORE ON A SATURDAY NIGHT…GO!

• Park night with friends in Patterson Park – hammocking, reading, playing frisbee, and chilling.
• Game night at No Land Beyond
• Finding a new restaurant!

WHAT IS STILL ON YOUR BALTIMORE TO-DO LIST?

The Baltimore Museum of Industry, a food tour, and the Peabody Library.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE BALTIMORE MASCOT? MR. BOH, THE ORIOLE BIRD, POE THE RAVEN, OR SOMEONE ELSE?

Mr. Trash Wheel, Professor Trash Wheel, and Captain Trash Wheel

WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE MOVING TO BALTIMORE OUT OF TOWN?

Be open to having new experiences and getting involved in your community. There are tons of opportunities to volunteer and be active in your community. Plus, it is a great way to meet your neighbors.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE CITY?

Smalltimore. Baltimore has all the amenities of a large city, but it still feels small and charming. The community is also tightly knitted together, and everyone knows everyone.

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED MODE OF TRANSPORTATION?

It depends on where I am going. If it is close by, I prefer to walk. But I take the bus to and from work every day.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FEATURE OF THE CITY?

I love all the unique neighborhoods throughout the city. Each one has unique features, architecture, and energy.

BESIDES LIVE BALTIMORE, WHAT OTHER LOCAL NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT?

Friends of Patterson Park, The Creative Alliance, and the Enoch Pratt Free Library System.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE OUTDOOR CITY ACTIVITY?

Hammocking, hiking, walking, reading.

WHAT IS YOUR SUPERPOWER?

I can read a book anywhere without getting distracted.

WHICH BALTIMORE CELEBRITY (PAST OR PRESENT) WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH?

Virginia Hall

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT?

Anything from Pie Time, Café Dear Leon, or any other place with pastries.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WANT THE WORLD TO KNOW ABOUT BALTIMORE?

Baltimore is a beautiful and welcoming city.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU’D STILL LIKE TO LEARN ABOUT BALTIMORE?

There is a lot I still need to learn about Baltimore City. I am interested in learning more about the city’s current and past industrial areas and how they have changed and developed over time.

WHAT THREE WORDS BEST DESCRIBE YOUR WORK PERSONALITY?

Passionate, analytical, and curious.

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT JOINING THE LIVE BALTIMORE TEAM?

I am excited to work with people who have a similar passion and are committed to the City of Baltimore.

We’ve had fun introducing you to our new colleague! Look for more installments of this series in the future as our team continues to grow. You can read more about Patterson Park on our Neighborhoods page.

The post 20 Questions with Amy Soukup appeared first on Live Baltimore.

1. Sweet Location

Locust Point is located at the southern end of the South Baltimore peninsula, bordered by the Patapsco River, which leads to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Neighbors enjoy living by the water and the nearby Latrobe Park, perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors.

2. The Domino Sugar Factory

In addition to the location begin “sweet,” the nationally known Domino Sugar Factory, founded in 1901, has been a staple in the community for more than 120 years. Locust Point residents have an excellent view of the famous brightly lit Domino sign.

“It always smells like sugar.” — Misty Keens, longtime Locust Point resident

3. Fort McHenry

During the War of 1812, a poet named Francis Scott Key witnessed the deadly Battle for Baltimore at Fort McHenry. He recounted his experience in what we now know as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” That’s right, Locust Point is the birthplace of America’s National Anthem!

4. A Rich History

In the early 19^th century, Polish and Italian Immigrants traveled to the Port of Baltimore in Locust Point in search of the American dream. It is the third-largest immigration port in America after New York and Philadelphia. Much of that history can still be felt in the community today.

5. Housing Styles We Love

The neighborhood features rarely found three-window wide rowhomes and doublewide rowhomes. If this type of architecture is your speed, you may find your dream home here! There are also a variety of new-construction apartments and condos to choose from.

6. Five-Star Family Neighborhood

Based on feedback and criteria generated from real-city families (like affordability, kids within the neighborhood, room for growth, school options, and more), we’ve compiled a list of Baltimore City’s neighborhoods that are particularly supportive of and popular with parents and families, and Locust Point is one of them. School options here include Francis Scott Key Elementary/Middle School, Thomas Johnson Elementary/Middle School, and The Baltimore Montessori for children aged six months to 1^st grade. A few other popular Five Star Family neighborhoods include Roland Park, Bolton Hill, Canton, Westfield, and Hamilton Hills.

7. A Strong Community

The neighborhood of Locust Point is close-knit, boasting a variety of community-focused activities and amenities.  Neighbors enjoy the Annual Locust Point Festival, multiple community gardens, and epic trick-or-treating on Halloween.

8. Tide Point

Back in 1929, the Proctor and Gamble Soap Company occupied this five-building 480,000 square-foot property overlooking Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Each building was named after the P&G products Tide, Dawn, Ivory, Joy, and Cascade. Today, the names remain, but the property is now home to the Under Armour Global Headquarters. 

9. Commuter-Friendly

Between the Harbor Connector, the Charm City Circulator, and the Maryland Cruise Terminal at the Port of Baltimore, residents have easy access to other parts of Baltimore City and the world!

10. Convenience & Amenities

Locust Point provides convenient amenities like grocery stores such as a newly built Giant (which opened November 2022) and Harris Teeter, the Locust Point Rec Center, and other local businesses, restaurants, and more along Key Highway.

Head to our Locust Point neighborhood page to learn more about median home prices, estimated rent, real estate agents who specialize in this neighborhood, and so much more. Better yet, take a trip and experience it for yourself. If you find your dream home in the process, be sure to attend our Winter 2023 Trolley Tour to become eligible for $5,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance toward your Locust Point purchase. We’ll save a seat for you!

The post 10 Reasons We Love Locust Point appeared first on Live Baltimore.

This premiere homebuying event is intended to educate homebuyers, connect homebuyers with knowledgeable real estate professionals, show off Baltimore City neighborhoods and amenities, and make homebuyers eligible for the Buying Into Baltimore $5,000 down payment and closing cost assistance incentive. Did we accomplish these goals with our Fall 2022 installment? Read on to find out!

Homeownership Workshops Educate Potential Baltimore City Homebuyers

Each installment of Trolley Tour features comprehensive homeownership workshops taught by expert real estate professionals that address the needs of potential buyers no matter where they are in the homebuying journey. Some Fall 2022 workshops included Mortgage Myths and Facts, What to Expect From your Home Inspection, How to Purchase a City-Owned Home, and our Ask a Lender Panel. Thanks to these workshops, 85% of attendees surveyed said they walked away from Trolley Tour with an increased knowledge of homebuying.

The City Living Fair Connects Motivated Homebuyers with Real Estate Professionals

Imagine finding your real estate agent, lender, title company, and home inspector in one place in one day. It seems out of the question, but Trolley Tour makes it possible! The Fall 2022 Trolley Tour introduced more than 400 potential homebuyers to 12 lenders and over 50 individual real estate agents. 64% of the Buying Into Baltimore incentive applicants used a Live Baltimore trusted lender.

“I’m so grateful for the Trolley Tour! It forced me to look at another lender, even though I didn’t want to, and not only did I get a better lender, but I got a better rate and better loan options, too.” -Jirigarthe C.

Neighborhood Tours Show off Baltimore City Neighborhoods and Amenities

Another staple of Trolley Tour, and its namesake, are the curated neighborhood tours. Thirteen neighborhoods in Southwest Baltimore City, including Seton Hill, Federal Hill, Hollins Market, and Ridgley’s Delight, as well as several amenities in the area, like Rash Field Park at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, M&T Bank Stadium, and Oriole Park, were highlighted in the Fall 2022 Trolley Tour.

The Buying Into Baltimore Incentive Lottery Makes Twenty New Homeowners $5,000 Richer

In partnership with the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development’s  Office of Homeownership, Trolley Tour provides down payment and closing cost assistance to twenty Baltimore City homebuyers. Immediately following the event, applicants have 10 business days to complete the application process and be entered into a lottery drawing for an award. With the Fall 2022 installment of Trolley Tour, homes were purchased in twenty different neighborhoods in Baltimore City with a combined purchase amount of $5,798,964!

“There is a lot to do in Baltimore! It is culturally inspiring, historic, diverse, welcoming, and architecturally beautiful. Buying here, I feel like I am giving back to and becoming a part of the community.” -Desiree A.

Whether you’re currently renting, actively searching for a home, or just generally curious, Trolley Tour is the one tool in your homebuying toolbox that you’ll want to keep handy. With a customer satisfaction rating considered to be “world-class,” homebuyers find value in attending and engaging in the event. Learn more about Trolley Tour, and homebuying incentives, on our website. And, save the date—the Winter 2023 Trolley Tour is scheduled for Saturday, January 28th!

The post Live Baltimore’s Fall 2022 Trolley Tour: The Ultimate Tool for Homebuying Success in Baltimore City appeared first on Live Baltimore.