Author: Jimy Chavarria

There’s been a lot of buzz about data centers and their effects on local housing markets, so I took a close look at the latest research. Turns out, there isn’t a simple answer—how these massive facilities shape home values really depends on each community’s economy, infrastructure, and existing demand. Counties with 10 or more data centers did see stronger home-value growth and higher median prices, but keep in mind, many of those areas were already tech hubs with higher incomes and robust job markets before data centers moved in. In fact, over 90% of US counties don’t have mapped data centers at all, and the experience for buyers and sellers has been all over the map. Some clients are raising concerns about electricity costs, water usage, and infrastructure strain, which I hear echoed here in Baltimore as well. The biggest positive impact seems to be in local commercial real estate and economic activity, rather than a direct bump to housing values. As always, it comes down to understanding your local market—and that’s where I’m focused, helping Baltimore buyers, sellers, and investors sort through what really matters for your next move.

With mortgage rates sticking above 7%, many in Baltimore are feeling the weight of higher borrowing costs and wondering how to make the numbers work. As someone who helps buyers at every stage—first-timers, investors, new arrivals, and longtime residents alike—I know these moments can feel uncertain. A recent study offers a smart strategy: if you’re planning ahead, consider building a rate cushion—think about budgeting for a half-point increase over 3 months, three-quarters by 6 months, and a full point within a year.

There’s a silver lining, though. Buyers in the later months of the year often find that typical home prices drop about 5% from late spring to early fall, with fewer folks competing and more space to negotiate. Last month, with around a 5-month supply of homes, buyers gained more leverage—whether that means negotiating on price, closing costs, or even exploring options like discount points or temporary rate buydowns.

If you’re still weighing your options, recent market moves suggest the Fed may tighten further, but the long game is still cooling inflation—which could bring mortgage costs down in the future. Baltimore’s market keeps shifting, and having a clear-eyed plan makes all the difference.

Welcome to 5409 Summerfield Avenue! Here is your opportunity to own a beautifully designed BRAND-NEW CONSTRUCTION home with NO HOA and plenty of space inside and out. Step inside to a bright, modern open-concept layout featuring brand-new finishes, systems, mechanicals, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and more. Upstairs offers three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing a comfortable and functional layout for everyday living. The fully finished lower level adds even more flexibility with TWO additional bedrooms and another full bathroom, bringing the home to a total of 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The additional space is perfect for guests, extended family, home offices, a gym, recreation space or whatever fits your lifestyle. Outside, enjoy a huge backyard with plenty of room for entertaining, pets, gardening or creating your own outdoor retreat, along with a private driveway offering parking for up to three vehicles. Conveniently located near I-95, I-695, Route 1 and US-40, providing easy access throughout the Baltimore area. Shopping, dining and entertainment are also nearby, including White Marsh Mall and The Avenue at White Marsh. Brand-new construction, no HOA, five bedrooms, three full bathrooms, private parking and a huge backyard — come see everything this home has to offer! OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY!

Welcome to 631 E 37th Street—a completely renovated four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home offering modern upgrades, a thoughtfully designed floor plan, and private off-street parking. The bright, open-concept main level creates a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making the space ideal for everyday living and entertaining. A conveniently located half bath completes the main floor. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The spacious primary bedroom features its own private en-suite bathroom, while an additional full bathroom serves the remaining bedrooms. The fully finished lower level expands the home’s possibilities with a fourth bedroom, another full bathroom, and its own separate entrance—providing excellent flexibility for guests, a home office, or additional private living space. Renovated from top to bottom, this stylish home has been upgraded to provide the comfort and convenience today’s buyers are looking for. A private parking pad in the rear adds a major advantage to city living. Located in Baltimore’s historic Waverly neighborhood, the home is close to the year-round 32nd Street Farmers Market, Greenmount Avenue’s local shops and restaurants, nearby Charles Village, Johns Hopkins University’s Homewood campus, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. With four bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, a finished lower level with a separate entrance, and dedicated rear parking, 631 E 37th Street delivers the space, style, and flexibility you’ve been searching for. Schedule your private showing today!

I’ve been paying close attention to the shifting landscape for Baltimore buyers and sellers, and some national trends are worth highlighting. In the rolling 3-month period ending Mid-Q3, about 45% of US home sales involved sellers offering concessions—the highest share for this time of year since at least 2020. That’s up from roughly 43% a year ago, reflecting how increased inventory and lighter competition are giving buyers more room to negotiate.

Concessions can look like help with repairs, closing costs, or even mortgage-rate buydowns—options that open up new ways for buyers to manage their total purchase costs, not just rely on price reductions. I’m seeing sellers get creative, often combining closing-cost credits and rate buydowns to make their listings stand out, which is reshaping the negotiation table. Nationally, around 16% of homes sold in Mid-Q3 combined a price cut with a concession, offering buyers even more flexibility on entry costs.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or making a big life transition in Baltimore, understanding how these negotiation trends play out locally can make all the difference. My goal is always to help you navigate these options with clarity so your next move fits your future.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates, recognizes, and honors the beautiful traditions and cultures of the Indigenous People
We take a stand for and support the indigenous people on this day.
We should also offer our support to those who invest and uplift the indigenous communities.