December 2025 Real Estate Guide

Real Estate

THE COASTAL REAL ESTATE RESOURCE Coastal Association of Realtors - OC Today-Dispatch

Published by OC Today-Dispatch for the Coastal Association of Realtors. Advertising in this publication is limited to members and affiliated members of the Association.

The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (CAR) is a trade organization for real estate professionals in Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset Counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Its membership consists of more than 1,000 REALTORs® and affiliate members serving the home-buying and homeselling needs of the public since 1957.

The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark, which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.

The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS is located at 314 Franklin Avenue, Suite 106 • Berlin, MD 21811. Phone: 410-641-4409. On the Web: www.coastalrealtor.org

OC TODAY-DISPATCH is the leading newspaper publisher on the Maryland coast, with OC Today-Dispatch publishing weekly on Friday, Bayside Gazette and Ocean City Digest publishing on Thursdays and Real Estate, the Coastal Real Estate Resource publishing key weekends throughout the year.

On the Web: www.octodaydispatch.com

Editor......................................................................... Stewart Dobson

Executive Editor................................................................ Steve Green

Account Managers....................... Mary Cooper, Renée Kelly, Terri French

Classifieds/Legals ........................................................ Pamela Green

Art Director....................................................................... Cole Gibson

Senior Page Designer....................................................... Susan Parks

Senior Ad Designer............................................................ Kelly Brown

Publisher..................................................................... Christine Brown

Administrative Asistant.......................................................... Gini Tufts

2025 awardees announced by Coastal Assoc. of Realtors

The Coastal Association of REALTORS® (CAR) announced several award winners.

2025 Affiliate of the Year: Capitol Title – The Burton Team

fessionalism, engagement, and dedication to serving CAR members throughout the Lower Eastern Shore. CAR extends heartfelt congratulations to Capitol Title - The Burton Team for their remarkable contributions and lasting impact this year.

This award recognizes an exceptional Affiliate member whose commitment, partnership, and support have significantly strengthened CAR’s programs, events, and REALTOR® community. The Burton Team has demonstrated outstanding pro-

Lifetime Achievement Award: Sharyn O’Hare, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty - Ocean Pines

Continued on Page 9

Highly sought after & rarely offered Bel Mare condo – this former model is in pristine condition, luxurious & professionally furnished. All 3 BRs have a private balcony plus extra living room balcony! Primary BA jetted tub & separate walk-in shower. Living room flat screen TV over gas

Provide a Comprehensive Report Detailing Reserve Funding Recommendations to Help Your Condominium, Homeowners Association and/or Marina Make Informed Decisions & Obtain Financial Insights To Protect Your Valuable Assets.

Reserve Studies of Delmarva is led by Eugene Jubber, a certified Reserve Specialist through CAI (Community Association Institute) with a PCAM Designation (Professional Community Association Manager). His goal is to reduce unnecessary and/or unforeseen special assessments.

How much can you afford to spend on a home in 2025?

According to market indicators from Redfin, the National Association of REALTORS® and Homes for Heroes, things began to shift late this year in regard to inventory (9.4 percent increase year-over-year).

the DTI, the less risky one is to lenders.

Prices began to level off, as the median US home price was $435,300 in June 2025, a 2% increase from the previous year. Price reductions also became more common compared to 2024, signaling a cooldown in some segments.

The 28/36 rule: Your monthly housing expenses (principal, interest, taxes, homeowners insurance, private mortgage insurance, and homeowners association fees) should be no more than 28 percent of one's gross monthly income. One's total monthly debt payments, including housing, car, loans, student loans, and credit cards, should be no more than 36 percent of the gross monthly income.

Although affordability concerns still persist, many people may finally be ready to enter the home-buying arena. When doing so, it's essential prospective home buyers recognize how much they can comfortably spend on a home.

Most experts suggest buyers combine lender affordability guidelines with an assessment of one's personal budget. These factors can help individuals determine a reliable budget when shopping for homes.

Debt-to-income ratio: Lenders use various parameters to identify a borrower's creditworthiness. That includes figuring out a person's debt-to-income ratio (DTI).

Wells Fargo says DTI can be calculated by adding up all of a person's monthly debt payments and dividing them by gross monthly income. That number is multiplied by 100 to get a percentage. The lower

Income-to-home price ratio: Some people abide by another general guideline to shop for a home that costs no more than three to five times their annual household income. That means with an annual income of $100,000, one should aim for a home priced between $300,000 and $500,000. The specific range will also depend on a person's existing debt.

Interest rates and other factors: The interest rate on home mortgages as well as down payment also must be considered. Resources like Bankrate and Zillow provide home affordability calculators that will factor in interest rates, terms of a loan, down payment, and property taxes. Buying a home when interest rates are high means spending more over the life of the loan. Also, how much one puts toward a down payment has a big impact. Aiming for 20 percent means avoiding paying for private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Your

Diversity initiatives focus of CAR Fair Housing education

The Coastal Association of REALTORS® (CAR) announced today that it has successfully utilized a $3,000 Fair Housing Grant from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) to provide access to the At Home with Diversity (AHWD) certification course for 30 CAR members. The grant enabled the association to offer the program at no cost, expanding Fair Housing education and fostering a more culturally competent REALTOR® community across the Lower Eastern Shore.

“Realtors® recognize the significance of the Fair Housing Act and reaffirm our commitment to upholding these laws and to offering fair, equitable service to every American in their search for homes and property,” said Terrence McGowan, President of the Coastal Association of REALTORS®. “By offering the At Home with Diversity certification to

our members, we are investing directly in their ability to serve clients from all backgrounds with professionalism, respect, and understanding.”

This initiative aligns with NAR’s Fair Housing Action Plan (ACT), which emphasizes accountability, culture change, and training. Through the AHWD course, participating REALTORS® developed skills related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and Fair Housing best practices. The grant-funded opportunity strengthened CAR’s long-standing commitment to promoting equal housing opportunities and supporting members as they navigate increasingly diverse communities.

NAR provides Fair Housing Grants to associations nationwide to support education, curriculum development, community programs, and partnerships that advance Fair Housing principles.

Realtors on the Lower Shore are educating themselves about Fair Housing and fostering a culturally aware community

Top Realtors awarded by CAR

Continued from Page 4

This distinguished recognition celebrates a member whose decades of leadership, mentorship, professionalism, and volunteerism have profoundly shaped CAR and the regional real estate community. Sharyn’s career exemplifies excellence, service, and an unwavering dedication to advancing the REALTOR® profession. CAR extends sincere appreciation to Sharyn O’Hare for her extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy.

Rising Star Award: Bonnie Flinn, ERA Martin & Associates, Salisbury

The Rising Star Award honors an emerging REALTOR® who demonstrates exceptional promise, professionalism, and dedication early in their career. Bonnie has distinguished herself through outstanding client service, active involvement, and a commitment to excellence that reflects the bright future of the real estate profession. CAR congratulates Bonnie Flinn on this well-deserved achievement.

CAR Outstanding Local Achievement Award: Kim Heaney, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty - Ocean Pines

This award honors a member whose work and leadership have

made a measurable, positive impact on the communities of the Lower Eastern Shore. Kim’s dedication, advocacy, and continued efforts to support local initiatives exemplify the REALTOR® commitment to service and community betterment. CAR commends Kim Heaney for her meaningful contributions and local leadership.

Good Neighbor Award: Michael Maykrantz, Seaside Resort Group, LLC

The Good Neighbor Award celebrates REALTORS® who demonstrate extraordinary community service and a passion for helping others through volunteerism and charitable work. Michael’s dedication to serving local organizations and causes has made a lasting and positive impact throughout the region. CAR proudly celebrates Michael Maykrantz for his continued commitment to strengthening our communities.

REALTOR® of the Year: Lauren Bunting, of Keller Williams Realty Delmarva Lauren’s exceptional professionalism, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics have set her apart as a model for the industry. Her longstanding dedication to CAR,

including her recent term as President, has positively influenced both the association and the real estate community at large. CAR applauds Lauren Bunting for her outstanding achievements and service.

Debbie Hileman

OWNER/BROKER,

DebbieHileman07 @gmail.com

sleeping areas are separate from the main living spaces. There is access to the screened porch from the Primary BR. Upstairs, you’ll find the 4th BR with park views & a large workshop area, ideal for hobbies or extra storage. The Roof and the Gas Heat have been replaced in the past 3 years.

Pines community! WALK TO THE POOL from this

ONE LEVEL HOME on QUIET STREET

100 WHITE HORSE DRIVE

Well-kept one-level home with bright and open great room, Vaulted Ceilings, Gas Fireplace, Recessed Lighting, Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring & Central Stereo. Kitchen includes a spacious pantry, gas range w/griddle, & a pass-through to the 16x12 Florida room with rear deck access. The sizable Primary Bedroom is 14x14. An extra wide driveway leads to an

$419,900

COASTAL ASSOCIATION WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

The Coastal Association of REALTORS® (CAR) is proud to welcome its 2025-26 Executive Board members.

President Terrence McGowan, Secretary/Treasurer-Elect Cameron Drew, President-Elect

and Kim Heaney)

Coastal Association Affiliate Members