Welcome to my blog — a place where real estate meets real life.

I’ve spent more than 20 years helping homeowners and families through some of the toughest property situations you can imagine: falling behind on mortgage payments, facing foreclosure, owing more than a home is worth, short sales, reverse mortgage problems, probate and estate properties, inherited homes, and every version of “I don’t know what to do next.”

This blog is where I break down complicated real estate situations in plain English, answer the questions people are actually searching for, and share practical information based on more than two decades of experience—including handling more than 150 short sales.

Here you’ll find weekly posts covering mortgage distress, foreclosure alternatives, Maryland short sales, reverse mortgage property sales, probate and inherited homes, distressed and as-is properties, along with market insights and real stories from the field.

Whether you’re behind on your mortgage, worried about foreclosure, dealing with an inherited property, helping a family member, or simply trying to understand your options, my goal is to give you clear information and a trusted place to start.

 

If the property situation isn’t simple, that’s where I come in.

 

March 25, 2026

22 Main Ave SW Glen Burnie MD Home for Sale

22 Main Ave SW in Glen Burnie is one of those homes that quietly overdelivers—and buyers who understand value are going to see it immediately.

Welcome to 22 Main Ave SW, Glen Burnie, MD, a well-maintained rancher that offers far more usable space than most homes in this price range, along with key updates that remove a lot of the typical homeowner headaches.

At first glance, it’s a classic, straightforward layout—but once you step inside, it opens up in a way that just makes sense. The main level offers comfortable living areas, a functional kitchen with updated appliances, and three bedrooms that are well-proportioned for everyday living. The natural hardwood floors add warmth, and the layout flows in a way that feels practical—not chopped up like some older homes.

The kitchen is a standout for buyers who actually use their kitchen. Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas cooking, and plenty of cabinet space give you everything you need without trying to be something it’s not. It’s clean, functional, and ready to go.

Now here’s where this home really separates itself…

The fully finished lower level adds a significant amount of additional living space that most buyers aren’t expecting. You’ve got a large family room, an additional bedroom, and a full bathroom—making it ideal for guests, a home office setup, or even a private space for someone who needs a little separation from the main level. There’s also flexibility down here for a gym, workspace, or entertainment area depending on how you live.

This is the kind of setup buyers are actively looking for right now—more usable space without jumping into a higher price point.

From an updates standpoint, a lot of the big-ticket items have already been handled:

  • New HVAC system (2023)
  • Backyard pool updates (2023)
  • Roof replaced in 2015 with transferable warranty
  • Refrigerator (2023), stove (2018), washer & dryer all included

That matters. Because buyers today aren’t just looking at the house—they’re looking at what they won’t have to spend money on after they move in.

Step outside and you’ll find a fully fenced backyard with an above-ground pool, space to entertain, and room to make it your own. It’s not overdone, which is actually a plus—it gives the next owner flexibility instead of forcing someone else’s vision.

Location-wise, Glen Burnie continues to be one of the most practical choices in the area. You’ve got quick access to major commuter routes, BWI, Baltimore, and Annapolis, which makes this a strong option for anyone who needs convenience without paying city prices. Everyday shopping, dining, and schools are all within a short drive, and the area continues to see steady demand from both buyers and investors.

So who is this home really perfect for?

This is a great fit for:

  • A buyer who wants more space than a typical rancher offers
  • Someone looking for a finished basement setup for flexibility
  • A first-time buyer who wants smart updates already done
  • Or even someone downsizing who still wants usable space without going condo

From a strategy standpoint, homes like this don’t attract attention because of flashy upgrades—they attract attention because they make sense. And in this market, that’s exactly what a lot of buyers are looking for.

I’ll be straight with you—if you’re someone who values function, space, and smart updates over hype, this is a home worth seeing in person.

 

If you’d like to take a closer look at 22 Main Ave SW in Glen Burnie, or just want to understand how this compares to other homes in the area, reach out. I’m always happy to walk you through it and give you a real, no-pressure perspective.

 

 

Posted in Dans Listings
March 18, 2026

This Spring Market Is About to Get Wild (Here’s What February Just Told Us)

Blog Post

This market isn’t slowing down—it’s setting up for a spring surge.

If you’ve been waiting for things to “cool off” before making a move… you might want to rethink that strategy.

Let me catch you up real quick, because this past week has been chaos—in a good way. I was down in Ocean City for a two-day volleyball tournament with Payton, running on coffee and concession stand snacks like every other sports parent. No medal this weekend (she grabbed one two weeks ago), but she played hard and that’s what matters.

At the same time, I had my team managing three MCW Pro Wrestling shows—Galena, Hollywood, and Dundalk. So yeah… a little bit of controlled insanity. Now we’re heading into another tournament up near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, while gearing up for three more shows in Frederick, Chesapeake Beach, and Joppa.

And in between all that?
I’m still watching the real estate market like a hawk.

 

Because right now… something important is happening.

 

📊 February Maryland Housing Stats Tell a Clear Story

Let’s break this down in plain English.

  • Homes sold: 4,016 (⬇️ 5.1%)

  • Average price: $489,994 (⬆️ 3.3%)

  • Median price: $425,000 (⬆️ 3.7%)

Here’s the part most people miss:

Less homes are selling… but prices are still going UP.

That’s not a weak market.
That’s a supply problem.

 

There simply aren’t enough homes available for the number of buyers still out there.

 

🏡 Inventory Is Still Tight (And That Matters)

  • Active listings dropped from 14,505 → 11,720

  • Months of inventory dropped to 2.1 months

Anything under 3 months is considered a seller’s market.

We’re not even close to balanced.

👉 Translation:
Sellers still have leverage.
Buyers still have competition.

 

Even if things feel “slower” than 2021 or 2022, this is still a very competitive environment.

 

⏳ Homes Are Taking Longer… But Don’t Misread It

  • Days on market: 26 (up from 17)

That sounds like a slowdown… until you put it in context.

17 days was absurd.
26 days is still fast.

What we’re really seeing is a shift from “insane speed” to “normal fast.”

 

And honestly? That’s healthier for everyone.

 

📉 New Listings Dropped—And That’s a Big Deal

  • New listings: 4,568 (down from 6,946)

That’s a significant drop.

And here’s why it matters:

When fewer homes hit the market, prices don’t go down—they get pushed UP.

 

This is one of the biggest drivers behind what we’re seeing right now.

 

📈 Buyers Haven’t Gone Anywhere

  • Pending sales: 4,981 (up from 4,741)

Buyers are still active.
They’re still writing offers.
They’re still competing.

 

They just don’t have enough homes to choose from.

 

🔥 A Surge in Relistings Is Happening Right Now

Here’s something you may not be hearing everywhere yet…

In January alone, there were roughly 45,000 relistings nationwide—the highest January we’ve seen in at least a decade.

These are homeowners who:

  • Tried to sell in 2024 or 2025

  • Didn’t get their price

  • Pulled off the market

  • And are now coming back for the spring

 

👉 Translation:
More competition is coming… but it’s not fully here yet.

 

⏳ The Spring Selling Window Is Almost Here

This is where things get really interesting.

Historically, the strongest time to sell a home is:

👉 Mid-April through early June

That’s when:

  • Buyer demand peaks

  • Homes show better

  • Competition is still limited

But here’s the part most people don’t understand…

By mid-to-late June, more sellers flood the market.

Which leads to:

  • More competition

  • Fewer bidding wars

  • More price adjustments

 

Not a crash—just a shift.

 

💡 What This Means for Maryland Buyers and Sellers

If you’re a seller:

  • You’re heading into the most powerful window of the year

  • Timing your listing correctly can make a huge difference in price

If you’re a buyer:

  • More options are coming

  • But you’re still competing in a tight market right now

If you’re “waiting to see what happens”:

 

  • The market is already showing you what’s happening

 

💬 Final Thoughts

The Maryland housing market right now is like that moment before a big storm—or in my world, right before a main event match.

You can feel something building.

Spring is here.
Buyers are ready.
Sellers are coming back.

And the decisions made over the next 30–60 days are going to matter more than most people realize.

So whether you’re thinking about selling, buying, investing, or just trying to figure out your next move…

Pay attention to timing.

 

Because in this market—timing isn’t everything…
but it’s pretty close.

 

Posted in Dan's Updates
Jan. 9, 2026

Trump Just Promised Lower Mortgage Rates — Here’s What It Really Means for Homeowners

Big headlines don’t pay your mortgage. Numbers do.

Yesterday, President Trump announced he was directing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to buy $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities (MBS) to push mortgage rates down. He said it would lower monthly payments and make homeownership more affordable.

And within minutes, Wall Street reacted.

Mortgage bonds spiked.
Rates improved slightly.
Social media exploded.

But before anyone starts refinancing or rushing to list their house, let’s slow down and talk about what actually happened and what this really means for you if you’re a homeowner, buyer, or someone thinking about selling.

Because this is where people either get smarter… or get hurt.

First: What Did Trump Actually Announce?

Trump didn’t announce a new Fed program.

He didn’t change mortgage law.

He didn’t lower interest rates.

What he said was that he’s directing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — the two government-sponsored mortgage giants  to use their cash reserves to buy $200 billion of mortgage bonds.

Why does that matter?

Because mortgage rates are based on mortgage-backed securities, not the Federal Funds Rate. When MBS prices go up, mortgage rates come down. When MBS prices fall, rates rise.

So in theory, if Fannie and Freddie become major buyers, prices rise → rates drop.

That’s the theory.

Why the Market Reacted Immediately

Markets move on expectations, not just reality.

As soon as traders heard “$200B of new buying,” they started bidding up mortgage bonds  which temporarily improved mortgage pricing.

That’s why rates looked a little better this morning.

But here’s the catch…

Markets always do this before they know whether the plan is real.

Think of it like a rumor at a wrestling show:
When the crowd thinks Hulk Hogan is about to walk out, the noise goes nuts — even if he never actually appears.

Here’s the Part Nobody Is Explaining on TV

$200 billion sounds massive.

In the mortgage bond world… it’s polite.

Let me show you why.

According to SIFMA (the bond market’s data authority):

• New MBS issued per year: ~$1.9 trillion
• New MBS issued per month: ~$160 billion
• MBS traded per day: ~$300 billion

So Trump’s entire $200B program equals:

  • About one month of new issuance

  • Or less than one average trading day

That means this is not 2020-style QE.
It’s not a nuclear bomb for rates.
It’s a nudge.

Helpful? Yes.
Miracle cure? No.

Could It Still Lower Rates? Absolutely.

Supply and demand still rule everything.

More buyers of mortgage bonds = higher bond prices = lower mortgage rates.

If Fannie and Freddie actually deploy that $200B steadily, you could realistically see:

A 0.125% to 0.50% improvement over time

That doesn’t sound sexy… until you do the math.

On a $400,000 mortgage, that’s:

  • $100–$300 per month

  • $36,000–$108,000 over the life of the loan

That’s real money.

But it only happens if the program:

  • Gets regulatory approval

  • Isn’t blocked by the FHFA or Treasury

  • And is sustained, not just announced

And that part is still completely unknown.

Why You Should Not Panic-Refi or Panic-Buy Yet

Markets spike on news.

They retrace on reality.

Mortgage rates today moved because traders are speculating that Fannie and Freddie will buy bonds.

They have not started buying anything yet.

No timeline.
No operating plan.
No regulatory clearance.

This is why professionals are saying “wait and see.”

Especially with CPI inflation data coming next week which could easily overpower this entire rally.

The Real Impact for Homeowners and Sellers

This is the part that matters most.

Even small rate drops:

  • Increase buyer affordability

  • Increase demand

  • Increase competition

  • Increase prices

So ironically, even if rates fall, many sellers may not feel “more affordable” because buyers will simply pay more.

Lower rates don’t fix a housing shortage.
They inflate it.

Which means:

  • Sellers may get higher offers

  • Buyers may face more competition

  • Investors may get more aggressive

Sound familiar? We’ve been here before.

What Smart Homeowners Should Be Doing Right Now

Don’t make decisions based on headlines.

Do this instead:

1. If you own a home:
Run updated numbers. If rates drop 0.25–0.50%, your equity and buyer demand change.

2. If you’re thinking of selling:
Lower rates usually bring more buyers — which helps you. Timing matters.

3. If you have a reverse mortgage, probate home, or distressed property:
Rate changes move investor demand fast. You want to know before everyone else does.

Bottom Line

Trump’s announcement could help.

But it’s not magic.
It’s not guaranteed.
And it’s not happening yet.

The bond market is saying:
“Interesting… now show me the buying.”

If it materializes, it could be very good for housing.
If it doesn’t, this rally fades just as fast as it showed up.

And that’s why having someone who actually watches this stuff  instead of just reading Twitter — matters.

If you want to know how this affects your home, equity, or selling options, you know where to find me.

And yes  I’ll keep watching the bond market so you don’t have to.

 

Dan McDevitt

President | Realvolution Homes Group

Realtor® | Cummings & Company Realtors

📱 Call or Text: 410-670-4762

📧 Email: dan@realvolutionhomes.com

🌐 Website: https://www.realvolutionhomes.com

🏢 Office:

Cummings & Company Realtors

9607 Belair Road

Baltimore, MD 21236

 

Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 30, 2025

America Just Put Up a 4.3% GDP Quarter… and Nobody’s Talking About What It Means for Maryland Homeowners

Strong economy, weird job market, shaky housing… welcome to 2026, folks.

The economy just clocked one of its strongest quarters in years… and most people are still walking around like it’s 2009. That’s the disconnect right now. Headlines scream “inflation,” your cousin swears the sky is falling, and meanwhile the U.S. economy quietly grew at a 4.3% annualized pace last quarter — faster than economists expected and faster than Q2. That’s not a fluke. That’s momentum.

But here’s the part nobody’s explaining well: a hot economy doesn’t mean an easy housing market. In fact, this weird combo of strong spending, gig work, and sticky interest rates is creating the most misunderstood real estate market I’ve seen since 2008. Let’s talk about what’s actually happening — and what it means for Maryland homeowners and buyers.

The Economy Is Running Hotter Than Expected

Let’s start with the big headline.

After the government shutdown delayed the numbers, the Q3 GDP report finally dropped — and it surprised everyone. The economy grew at 4.3%, blowing past the 3.3% forecast and beating Q2’s already-strong 3.8%.

That means:

  • We rebounded hard from Q1’s dip

  • Consumers are spending

  • The U.S. is not in a recession

A huge chunk of that growth came from consumer spending — especially people rushing to buy electric vehicles before the EV tax credit expired. Add in stronger exports and more government spending, and suddenly the GDP looks like it drank three Red Bulls.

But here’s the thing: GDP doesn’t tell you whether regular people feel good — it tells you whether money is moving. And money is absolutely moving right now.

That’s why home prices haven’t crashed the way social media keeps predicting.

 

The Job Market Is Strong… But It’s Getting Weird

This is where things get interesting.

Initial unemployment claims just fell to 214,000, which is historically low. Translation: not a lot of people are getting laid off.

But continuing claims the people still receiving unemployment  jumped to nearly 1.93 million, which is near four-year highs.

That combo means:

  • Fewer new layoffs

  • But people are taking longer to find traditional jobs

Why?

Because the gig economy has completely warped how Americans work now.

Instead of filing for unemployment, people are:

  • Driving Uber

  • Doing DoorDash

  • Freelancing

  • Running side hustles

They’re not “employed” in the old-school sense — but they’re not broke either.

And this matters a LOT for housing.

Here’s what most people get wrong.

They think:

“If people are struggling, home prices must fall.”

But the modern economy doesn’t work that way anymore.

Even if someone loses a job, they:

  • Drive rideshare

  • Deliver food

  • Freelance online

  • Run eBay stores

  • Pick up contract work

So what happens?

They still pay their mortgage.
They don’t panic sell.
They don’t flood the market with inventory.

That’s why Maryland home prices have stayed stubbornly strong, even with 7% mortgage rates.

People still have income — it just looks different now.

And when inventory stays low, prices don’t crash.

Interest Rates Are Still the Real Boss Fight

Now let’s talk about the other monster in the room: mortgage rates.

Bond markets and Treasury yields last week showed rates holding near major technical support levels. That means:

  • Rates aren’t collapsing yet

  • But they also aren’t surging

We’re in what traders call a “compression zone.”

Translation in real estate terms:
Rates are stuck in the “annoying but survivable” range.

That’s why buyers are frustrated.
That’s why sellers are hesitant.
And that’s why homes that are overpriced are just sitting there… judging you silently.

But here’s the cheat code:

When rates eventually ease — and they will — this pent-up buyer demand is going to explode.

And that’s why sellers who wait for “perfect conditions” often miss the best window.

 

What This Means for Maryland Homeowners Right Now

If you own a home in Maryland — especially in Baltimore, Harford County, or anywhere with limited new construction — this economy is quietly working in your favor.

Here’s why:

  • People still have money

  • Jobs are still plentiful (just flexible)

  • Housing supply is still tight

  • And millennials still desperately want homes

Even with higher rates, well-priced homes are still selling.

Bad listings die.
Good listings move.

That hasn’t changed.

What has changed is that buyers are now picky, educated, and allergic to nonsense.

So pricing and strategy matter more than ever.

 

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re buying right now, you’re in the weirdest sweet spot in a decade.

You get:

  • Less competition

  • More negotiating power

  • Sellers who will pay closing costs

  • Sellers who will do repairs

  • Sellers who will actually listen

And when rates drop later, you can refinance.

That’s why the smartest buyers I work with right now aren’t waiting — they’re quietly scooping up deals while everyone else is doom-scrolling TikTok.

 

Dan’s Take

Here’s the real truth.

The economy isn’t broken — it’s transitioning.
Jobs aren’t disappearing — they’re changing.
And housing isn’t crashing — it’s re-pricing based on reality.

This market rewards:

  • Smart sellers

  • Prepared buyers

  • And people who understand what’s actually happening, not what Facebook is yelling about

If you’re thinking about selling in 2026, the window you’re about to get may be the best one in years.
If you’re buying, you have leverage most buyers never get.

And if you’re confused?

 

Good. That’s where opportunity lives.

 

Thinking about selling, buying, or just want a straight-talk home value?

Text me. Call me. Message me.
I’ll give you the honest answer even if it’s not the one you expected.

And if you have a friend or family member in Maryland who’s debating what to do with their home, send them my way. I don’t do pressure  I do clarity.

 

Dan McDevitt

President | Realvolution Homes Group

Realtor® | Cummings & Company Realtors

📱 Call or Text: 410-670-4762

📧 Email: dan@realvolutionhomes.com

 

Posted in Dan's Updates
Dec. 23, 2025

Prevent Foreclosure in Maryland: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re falling behind on your mortgage right now, let me start with this: you’re not alone. Maryland homeowners have been getting squeezed hard this year — rising costs, job changes, medical bills, you name it. The foreclosure letters, the collection calls, the panic… it’s a lot. And when you’re overwhelmed, the hardest part is simply figuring out who to trust and what your actual options are.

I’ve been helping Maryland homeowners navigate this exact situation since 2007, right in the middle of the housing crash — and I’ve personally guided hundreds of families through short sales, loan modifications, and foreclosure-avoidance strategies. I understand the stress, the fear, and the urgency. More importantly: I know the roadmap out.

 

So today, let’s walk through the real options Maryland homeowners have to prevent foreclosure, and when it might make sense to consider a short sale as the cleanest, fastest path forward.

 

1. Your Options to Prevent Foreclosure in Maryland

Before foreclosure becomes final, you still have several moves available — and the earlier you act, the more control you keep.

✔ 1. Reinstatement

If your hardship was temporary and you can catch up on missed payments (plus fees), reinstating the loan stops everything. Most people don’t realize this is an option, but it is.

✔ 2. Repayment Plan

Your lender spreads the overdue amount across future payments. Good if you’re back on your feet but can’t write one big check.

✔ 3. Loan Modification

This is where the bank adjusts your loan to make it affordable again — lower rate, longer term, sometimes capitalizing missed payments. I’ve helped dozens of Maryland families work successfully through mods.

✔ 4. Forbearance

If your hardship is short-term, the lender may temporarily reduce or pause payments. Once forbearance ends, you negotiate how to repay the paused amount.

✔ 5. Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure

This is essentially handing the home back to the lender voluntarily. It protects you from the public foreclosure process, but banks don’t approve these often unless the property has already been listed.

✔ 6. Bankruptcy

This is a legal tool, not a real estate one. It can temporarily stop foreclosure, but it comes with serious long-term credit consequences. Always talk to a bankruptcy attorney before considering this.

✔ 7. Short Sale (The option most homeowners don’t fully understand)

A short sale allows you to sell the home for less than what you owe — with the lender’s approval — and avoid foreclosure altogether. Compared to a foreclosure, a short sale usually:

  • Impacts your credit less severely

  • Allows you to recover faster

  • Lets you control the move-out timeline

  • Often stops the threat of the bank pursuing you for the remaining balance

  • Feels more dignified and manageable

 

And here’s the part most people don’t know: banks regularly prefer a short sale over foreclosure, because it saves them time, money, and legal headaches.

 

2. Here’s Why You Might Want to Consider a Short Sale

I’ve been doing short sales since 2007, back when the entire country was upside down. I’ve closed hundreds of them since — and not one homeowner has ever said, “I wish I’d just let it foreclose instead.”

A short sale can make a world of difference because:

  • You walk away with less long-term credit damage

  • You avoid the public foreclosure auction

  • You avoid the embarrassment and stress of sheriff postings on your door

  • You get to decide when you move, not a court

  • You can often negotiate waiver of the deficiency (the remaining balance)

  • You can sometimes qualify to buy again in as little as 2–3 years

 

And with the right guidance, the process is far less intimidating than people expect.

 

3. What I Tell Every Homeowner Who Calls Me

When someone reaches out and says, “Dan, I’m behind on my mortgage — what do I do?” here’s my advice:

Don’t ignore the letters. The longer you wait, the fewer options you keep.

Don’t assume you’re stuck. You’re not. Maryland homeowners have real rights and choices.

Get a professional in your corner early. A short sale or foreclosure-avoidance strategy is not something to navigate alone.

My job isn’t to push you into selling — it’s to help you understand every option so you can make the decision that protects your future, your credit, and your sanity.

 

4. Want to See if a Short Sale Is Right for You?

If you’re behind on payments — or you’ve already received a Notice of Intent to Foreclose — now is the time to act.

I’ve been doing this work for 18 years, and I’ve helped hundreds of Maryland homeowners walk through situations just like yours with clarity, confidence, and relief.

If you want to know whether:

  • You qualify for a short sale

  • Your lender will approve it

  • You can avoid owing money after the sale

  • You’re still early enough to stop foreclosure

…just reach out.

There’s zero pressure, zero obligation, and zero judgment.
Just straight answers and a clear plan.

👉 If you want me to take a look at your situation and see whether a short sale makes sense, contact me today.

You don’t have to walk through this alone — and you definitely don’t have to wait until the foreclosure process is too far along to stop.

 

Dan McDevitt

President | Realvolution Homes Group

Realtor® | Cummings & Company Realtors

📱 Call or Text: 410-670-4762

📧 Email: dan@realvolutionhomes.com

🌐 Website: https://www.realvolutionhomes.com

🏢 Office:

Cummings & Company Realtors

9607 Belair Road

Baltimore, MD 21236

🔗 Helpful Resources & Links:

👉 https://linktr.ee/realvolutionhomes

 

Dec. 11, 2025

The Complete Maryland Guide to Selling a Home With a Reverse Mortgage (What Most People Aren’t Told)

Selling a home with a reverse mortgage feels complicated until someone finally explains it in plain English. If you’re a homeowner, a personal representative (PR), or an adult child handling a parent’s estate, you’re probably Googling this because you’re overwhelmed, confused, and not sure where to start. You’re not alone.

Here in Maryland, I work with reverse mortgage properties every single week — and the truth is, these situations come with unique rules, deadlines, and options that most people aren’t told about.

This guide breaks everything down simply, clearly, and without the corporate jargon the big national sites use. Whether the home is underwater, the borrower has passed away, or the lender is suddenly sending threatening letters, this article will walk you through exactly what happens next.

 

Let’s get into it.

🏡 Can You Sell a Home With a Reverse Mortgage in Maryland?

Yes — absolutely.
A reverse mortgage does not stop you from selling. It just means the loan must be paid off when the home transfers.

But here’s the part most people don’t know:

👉 You only owe the lesser of the loan balance or the home’s current market value.
Reverse mortgages are non-recourse, which means the lender cannot pursue you or your family for the difference if the home sells for less than what’s owed.

This protection applies to:

  • The homeowner

  • Heirs

  • Personal representatives

  • Estates

This is one of the most misunderstood — and most helpful — parts of reverse mortgage law.

 

⚠️ What If the Home Is Underwater? (The FHA 95% Rule)

This is where Maryland sellers tend to panic.

Maybe the loan balance is $380,000…
…but the house is only worth $300,000.

Here’s the good news:

👉 You can still sell the home.
👉 FHA will accept 95% of the appraised value — even if that’s far below what’s owed.
👉 The remaining debt is wiped out.

This is called a HECM Short Sale, and it comes with an additional benefit most sellers never hear about:

💰 FHA offers up to $3,000–$15,000 in incentives to help the homeowner or estate cooperate with the sale.
(Yes — they literally pay you to cooperate.)

National articles never talk about this. Most realtors don’t even know it exists. But for underwater Maryland homeowners, it’s life-changing.

 

⚰️ What If the Homeowner Has Passed Away?

This is where the online articles completely fail people.

When a borrower dies, the reverse mortgage becomes due and payable, but heirs are not forced into foreclosure — as long as they take action.

Here’s how it works:

  1. HUD sends an initial “due and payable” letter (usually 30–60 days after death).

  2. The estate has 30 days to notify the lender of intentions.

  3. You can request an extension — most estates get up to 6–12 months.

  4. During this time, you can:

    • Sell the home

    • Do a HECM short sale

    • Pay it off with life insurance proceeds

    • Refinance into your own name (rare, but possible)

The process is manageable when handled correctly.
It becomes a nightmare when ignored.

 

🔧 What If the Home Needs Repairs?

Reverse-mortgage homes often have:

  • Deferred maintenance

  • Old roofs

  • Water damage

  • Chipping paint

  • Old HVAC

  • Mold or structural issues

  • 20 years of “stuff” in the basement

Here’s the key:

👉 You do NOT need to fix anything to sell.
👉 FHA short-sale rules ALLOW as-is sale conditions.
👉 Cash buyers are allowed.
👉 The estate never pays repair costs out-of-pocket.

That means you can sell a rough house fast, as-is, and without spending a dime — if you know the correct process.

 

🔍 Here’s the Exact Timeline When Selling a Reverse Mortgage Home in Maryland

Whether you’re the homeowner or the PR of an estate, these are the steps:

1. Determine the current loan payoff

This includes:

  • Principal balance

  • Interest

  • Mortgage insurance

  • Servicing fees

You (or I, as your agent) contact the lender and get a formal payoff quote.

2. Get a real appraisal or broker price opinion (BPO)

This tells you:

  • Whether the home has equity

  • Whether it qualifies for a HECM short sale

  • Whether you’ll receive leftover proceeds

3. Decide which selling path fits your situation

You typically have 4 options:

  1. Traditional listing (if there’s equity)

  2. HECM short sale (if underwater)

  3. As-is investor sale (fastest option)

  4. Payoff and refinance (least common)

4. Prepare the home — at the level you choose

With a reverse mortgage, you’re not required to make repairs.
You’re not required to clean out the property.
You’re not required to upgrade anything.

We can coordinate:

  • Cleanouts

  • Donation pickups

  • Junk removal

  • Estate sale teams

…so you don’t have to carry the burden alone.

5. Sell the home & close

At settlement:

  • The lender gets paid first

  • Remaining funds go to the homeowner or heirs

  • If underwater, FHA covers the difference

  • FHA incentive funds are distributed

This process is smoother than people expect. The key is just having someone guide you.

 

🧭 Maryland vs. Other States: What Makes Our Process Unique

Maryland has specific situations that the national blogs never mention:

✔ Faster probate timelines

Selling during probate is common — and allowed.

✔ Higher property taxes in some counties

This accelerates “due and payable” status if taxes lapse.

✔ Fast-moving foreclosure timelines once HUD is involved

Missing deadlines with HUD can cause irreversible acceleration.

✔ Many Maryland homes qualify for investor cash offers

Our market is filled with buyers willing to purchase:

  • As-is

  • With clutter

  • With necessary repairs

  • With reverse mortgages

Knowing how to negotiate these correctly is the difference between a seller walking away with nothing…
…and a seller walking away with incentive money in hand.

 

💬 Real Talk: What Most People Get Wrong About Reverse Mortgage Sales

Here’s what I see over and over:

❌ Families panic when a “due and payable” letter shows up
❌ Heirs think they’re stuck with the debt (they’re not)
❌ Homeowners think they can’t sell because of repairs
❌ People assume a foreclosure is inevitable
❌ PRs don’t realize extensions are available
❌ Most realtors don’t understand the difference between HECM and traditional short sales

This confusion leads to avoidable stress — and often lost equity.

Your situation absolutely can be handled smoothly with the right guidance.

 

🌟 Why Work With a Maryland Agent Who Specializes in Reverse Mortgages?

Reverse mortgage sales are NOT traditional transactions. They involve:

  • HUD timelines

  • Lender payoff departments

  • Non-recourse rules

  • Special HUD appraisals

  • Extension requests

  • Estate timelines

  • Probate court coordination

  • As-is valuations

  • FHA closing requirements

Most real estate agents have never touched one of these.

I built my business around helping families through difficult, confusing, high-stakes situations — including estate sales, probate homes, underwater properties, short sales, and reverse mortgage homes throughout Maryland.

This isn’t just a listing to me.
This is a lifeline to people who feel stuck.

 

 

🖐 If You Need Help, Here’s What Happens When You Reach Out to Me

No pressure. No judgment. No sales pitch.

Just a real human conversation.

I can help you:

  • Determine your options

  • Estimate the payoff

  • Identify whether you have equity

  • See if your home qualifies for the FHA 95% rule

  • Handle communication with the lender

  • Navigate probate if needed

  • Sell the home as-is

  • Avoid foreclosure

  • Maximize your outcome with the least stress

In most cases, families are relieved within minutes once they understand the path forward.

 

📞 Need Help With a Reverse Mortgage Sale in Maryland?

Whether you're the homeowner or the personal representative, I can walk you through your options in plain English — and help you protect your time, your money, and your peace of mind.

👉 Call or text me directly: (443) 865-4460
👉 Email: Dan@RealvolutionHomes.com

 

You don’t have to navigate this alone.
There is a clear path forward — and I’m here to walk it with you.

Dec. 10, 2025

Why My Website Crashed (And Why It Might Be the Best Thing That Ever Happened to My Clients)

Why My Website Crashed (And Why It Might Be the Best Thing That Ever Happened to My Clients)

For the last two weeks, life has felt like someone took my business, put it in a blender, and hit “purée.” After more than 10 years with the same website host, their entire server suddenly shut down… during Thanksgiving week. Perfect timing, right?

My website? Gone.
My business email? Gone.
My team email accounts? Gone.
My weekly Wednesday email — the one I haven’t missed in two years?
Also gone. Twice.

If you know me, you know I take pride in showing up consistently, especially for the people who support my business. Missing two weekly emails felt like my own personal Super Bowl loss.

But here’s the strange part:
This chaos forced me to pause, step back, and completely recalibrate.

It made me ask:
If I were building my business from scratch today, what would I build? Who would I serve? What problems would I focus on solving?

And the answer came quickly.

22 Years In This Business — And My Passion Has Always Been the Same

There are so many parts of real estate I love. But the thing that has always pulled at me — the work that feels meaningful, and real, and human — is helping homeowners facing tough situations.

For 22 years, I’ve helped people navigate:

  • Short sales

  • Reverse mortgages

  • Probate and inherited properties

  • Estate sales

  • Distressed or overwhelmed homeowners

These are the situations where real estate stops being about granite counters and staging — and starts being about life.
People.
Fear.
Options.
Dignity.
And someone showing up with clarity in a moment that feels anything but clear.

Rebuilding my website forced me to zoom back in on what truly matters — the people who need real answers, not the standard fluffy Realtor marketing.

A New Website With a New Purpose

This reboot gave me something unexpected:
a chance to design a website that actually does what I want it to do — help people in distress get real, honest answers.

On the new site, you’ll find clear guidance on:

  • Reverse mortgages and what to do if you need to move or sell

  • Short sale solutions

  • Probate and estate home scenarios

  • Distressed property options

  • How to sell fast — with or without equity

And yes — I’ll still have the classic home search tools you’re used to…

But this time, the heart of the site is built FOR the people who genuinely need specialized help.

What You Can Expect Going Forward

One of my personal goals with this rebuild is to start writing a couple of blog posts per week—raw, real, and packed with actual guidance, not sugar-coated nonsense.

I’ll also be highlighting:

  • Daily new listings in Maryland and Delaware

  • Updates on market trends

  • Insights for homeowners facing tough decisions

  • Weekly real talk about what’s happening in real estate and life

And don’t worry —
my weekly Wednesday email is officially coming back.

If you’ve been reading them, you know they aren’t your typical Realtor emails — they’re a mix of real estate, wrestling, parenting, health, struggle, and humor. Basically… me.

Closing Thought

Sometimes life forces you to hit reset.
Sometimes it’s because things fall apart.
And sometimes falling apart is exactly what makes room for the version you were supposed to build next.

Thanks for sticking with me through the chaos.
Thanks for reading.
And I hope you’ll follow along as I turn this unexpected website disaster into the next chapter of my business — and hopefully something that genuinely helps a lot of people.

 

If you ever need anything — real estate guidance, tough-situation advice, or just someone who’ll give it to you straight — I’m here.

 

Dan McDevitt
Realtor® | Cummings & Company Realtors
Licensed in Maryland & Delaware
Distressed Property Specialist | Reverse Mortgage Guidance | Short Sales | Probate
📞 410-670-4762
📧 dan@realvolutionhomes.com
🌐 www.RealvolutionHomes.com

Posted in Dan's Updates