Baltimore officials approved a program that would sell city-owned vacant homes for as little as $1.
The city’s Board of Estimates voted on the program during a meeting on Wednesday morning, despite pushback from City Council President Nick Mosby.
The board passed the new pricing structure for city-owned vacant homes on the “Buy Into BMore” website in a four-to-one vote where Mosby was the sole opposition.
Baltimore has over 13,500 vacant properties, nearly 900 of which are owned by the city, according to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
The fixed-price program would only apply to certain city-owned properties, according to a page on DHCD’s website.
Buyers need to promise to fix up the homes
Those purchasing a home in the program must promise to renovate the property and have at least $90,000 to fix it up. Owners must also move in within a year, and stay in the home for five years.
During Wednesday’s meeting, Mosby said the program does not have guardrails written in place that would ensure city residents had priority to buy these homes and won’t be forced out of these neighborhoods when their conditions improve.
“If affordability and affordable home ownership and equity and all of the nice words we like to use are really at the core competency as it relates to property disposition, this is a really bad policy,” Mosby said. “This is a bad policy because it doesn’t protect or prioritize the rights of folks in these communities.”
Who can buy a home for $1?
As part of the program, only individual buyers and community land trusts would be able to purchase the properties for $1. Nonprofits with 50 or fewer employees would pay $1,000 while developers and nonprofits with more than 50 employees would have to pay $3,000.
Investing in Maryland is a safe bet, according to a recently released Maryland Economic Development Association study.
The January report, completed with the help of Salisbury University’s Business Economic and Community Outreach Network, found every dollar invested in county economic development operations in Maryland yielded an estimated $9.17 in return.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the impact of the economic development community in the state of Maryland,” said John Hickman, director of BEACON.
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The study was conducted to better quantify the impact of economic development efforts using empirical data to demonstrate the importance and value of economic development programs. The data, compiled by BEACON’s research team, focused on jobs added or retained, as reported by county economic development offices, and the funding invested by each county to support economic development operations.
Analysis of the 2022 and 2023 data supplied by participating county economic development offices, modeled with IMPLAN, a regional economic analysis software application, revealed varying returns on investment across communities. The estimated statewide average return for 2022 and 2023 demonstrated the generated state and local tax revenue for each dollar invested.
“As the trade association for professionals in the state at every level, it’s our partners that contribute to economic development. It includes housing and community (investment) and workforce development coming together to enhance an economy. We wanted to quantify it in terms of dollar amount on that return on investment,” said Lawrence Twele, president and founder of Eastport Partners and members of the association for over 20 years.
Forming an Eastern Shore economic forecast
Anticipating the economic needs of a growing Eastern Shore means taking stock of its assets. In Wicomico County, that starts with recognizing that much of its success boils down to location.
“This study gives a sense of investment on a broad basis that is relayed to the legislative bodies that need this data,” said David Ryan, executive director of Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development. “Our major assets are two highways intersecting in Salisbury, freight rail networks, and the Wicomico River that brings agricultural products and fuel and building aggregates. That moves the supply chain in the county, and we still have the regional airport.”
According to Ryan, the Salisbury Regional Airport accounts for an estimated $150 million in return on investment and economic impact.
Training programs like those for aviation maintenance technicians are key in addressing the shortage in labor for the next 20 years. The creation of high-paying job also draws a workforce that will need additional industries like housing, utilities and other infrastructure. More importantly, it adds to a healthy tax base.
“(This) is an opportunity to grow the aviation and aeronautics sector. Our region’s economy includes agriculture, healthcare, higher education and manufacturing. We can add other sectors to that, and not every community has an airport,” Ryan said.
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Post-pandemic, ‘an influx of interest in Somerset County’
Daniel Thompson, executive director of Somerset County Economic Development, echoed concerns over labor shortages and noted the pandemic came with its own economic challenges and surprises.
“As a rural area with a smaller population, our workforce tends to come from outside the county to sustain business growth,” Thompson said. “Before the pandemic, we were competing with the more metropolitan areas across the state, but during, we actually saw an influx of interest in Somerset County. Many people were stepping back from their business model and started looking into rural parts of Maryland.”
That coincided with aggressive market positioning to bring natural gas and its related infrastructure into the county. County commissioners also doubled down on their investment into broadband internet.
“We had incentives like enterprise and opportunity zones, and we marketed them. Things like quality of service and relationships with the contacts were important. It was more than just getting businesses there, it was getting them there for the long haul,” Thompson said.
Concerns over cyclical troubles in business were tempered by assurances the county would continue to support investors’ business goals.
Investments pay off with jobs, tax revenue and more
“The impacts of these investments is that for every project the county worked on, it retained jobs, it attracted new ones, and those jobs and the income taxes they create and taxes those businesses paid all come back as revenue. This was a way of telling the story of that return,” Twele said.
The association behind the study, in cooperation with BEACON, is a nonprofit organization of economic development professionals. Established in 1961, MEDA members promote the economic well-being of Maryland by working to improve the state’s business climate and the professionalism of those in the field of economic development.
MEDA’s membership includes economic development practitioners employed by the government, businesses, and chambers of commerce as well as other professionals with an interest in the economy of Maryland.
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Nestled in the heart of Maryland lies the historic and picturesque city of Frederick, a community that has been steadily growing in popularity. As with any location, there are both advantages and drawbacks to consider when contemplating a move to this charming city.
In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of residing in Frederick, so you can make an informed decision about whether this city is the right fit for you. So whether you’re looking at Frederick homes for sale, or just wondering what living in Frederick, MD is like, keep reading to learn more.
Pros of living in Frederick, MD
1. Affordable housing
Frederick has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other metropolitan areas on the East Coast. The median sale price in Frederick is $403K and the average rent for apartments in Frederick, is between $1,692 and $1,950. While housing prices have risen over the past few years, they remain more reasonable than those found in nearby cities such as Washington, DC, and Baltimore.
2. Community events
Frederick is a vibrant community that offers a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year. One of the most popular annual events is the In The Street festival, which takes place in September and features live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. The city also hosts the Frederick Festival of the Arts, which showcases the work of local artists and artisans.
Other community events include the Great Frederick Fair, the Frederick Wine Festival, and the Frederick Running Festival, which attracts runners from around the world. With such a diverse range of community events, there is always something to do and see in Frederick.
3. Outdoor recreation
Frederick is home to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. The city is surrounded by several state parks and forests, including Cunningham Falls State Park and the Catoctin Mountain Park, which offer hiking, camping, and fishing. The Monocacy National Battlefield, which played a significant role in the Civil War, is also a popular destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the city has numerous parks and trails for hiking, biking, and picnicking, including the Baker Park and Carroll Creek Linear Park. The Potomac River is also nearby, offering opportunities for water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
4. Education
Frederick has a highly-rated public school system, with several schools ranking among the top in the state. Additionally, there are many private schools, including religious-based schools and alternative education programs, providing families with a variety of choices. The city is also home to various colleges and universities, including Frederick Community College and Hood College. These institutions offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a range of disciplines, including business, education, and healthcare. Frederick is also known for its robust adult education and continuing education programs, providing lifelong learning opportunities for community members. With its focus on providing quality education at all levels, Frederick is a great place for families and individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills.
5. Location
Frederick is located in the western part of Maryland, approximately 50 miles northwest of Baltimore and 40 miles west of Washington, DC. The city is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering scenic views and access to outdoor recreational activities. Frederick is easily accessible by car via several major highways, including Interstate 70 and Interstate 270, and by train through the MARC commuter rail system. Additionally, the city has a regional airport, Frederick Municipal Airport, which offers limited commercial flights and private aviation services. The city’s location provides a perfect balance of small-town charm and access to urban amenities, making it an attractive place to live for individuals and families seeking a high quality of life with easy access to major metropolitan areas.
Cons of living in Frederick, MD
1. Traffic
Traffic in Frederick can be congested during peak travel times, particularly on major roads such as Route 15 and Interstate 70. The city has seen significant population growth in recent years, resulting in increased traffic volume and longer commute times for some residents. The downtown area can also experience heavy traffic, especially during festivals and events. However, the city has implemented several initiatives to improve traffic flow, including expanding public transportation options and implementing smart traffic management systems.
2. Job opportunities
The lack of job opportunities in Frederick can be a significant con for those considering making the city their home. While the city itself boasts a charming atmosphere and a rich historical backdrop, the limited job market can make it challenging for individuals to find stable, well-paying employment that aligns with their skills and career aspirations. This constraint may force residents to seek work in neighboring cities or the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, resulting in longer commutes and potentially higher transportation costs. Moreover, a restricted job market can also impact the local economy, as the reduced spending power of residents can hinder the growth and development of small businesses and community services.
3. Public transportation
Frederick’s public transportation options are limited, leading to a higher reliance on personal vehicles and potentially disadvantaging residents without access to a car, such as seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income individuals. The primary public transportation option in Frederick is the TransIT system, which offers local bus routes within the city and connections to nearby regions. While the TransIT system provides some coverage, it may not be as extensive, frequent, or convenient as the public transportation networks found in larger metropolitan areas.
4. Weather
Weather can be unpredictable and often includes hot summers and cold winters. The city experiences an average of 42 inches of rain and 20 inches of snow per year. Due to its location in the Appalachian Mountains, the city can experience occasional severe weather events, such as tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.
Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and the center of a metropolitan area of 1.5 million people. It is located on the Chesapeake Bay and is known for its Inner Harbor. The city offers cultural opportunities, professional sports, outdoor activities, and much more. If you enjoy the surf and sand, Baltimore is within driving distance of beaches and ocean resorts. Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York are also an easy drive or train ride away.
However, renting an apartment or buying a home in Baltimore isn’t going to be for everyone. Fortunately, there are countless cities near Baltimore that may meet your budget and needs while keeping you within commuting distance. Redfin has gathered 11 cities near Baltimore to consider buying a house or renting an apartment this year. Check them out – you may end up deciding to call one of them home.
#1: Dundalk, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 10
Population: 64,000
Median home sale price: $199,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,187
Walk Score: 49
Bike Score: 31
Transit Score: 43
Dundalk, MD, comprises more than 20 small town-like neighborhoods, all with easy access to Baltimore. Its 43 miles of waterfront, great restaurants, and expansive parks make it a desirable place to live. A fun fact about the city is that it was named after Dundalk, Ireland.
There are a variety of things to do in Dundalk. There are several parks and recreation areas, including the Patapsco Valley State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and camping. There are also some historical sites, such as the Thomas Viaduct and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum. There’s something for everyone living in Dundalk.
Homes for sale in Dundalk, MD
Apartments for rent in Dundalk, MD
#2: Towson, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 10
Population: 58,000
Median home sale price: $408,345
Average 1-bed rent: $1,807
Walk Score: 50
Bike Score: 37
Transit Score: 36
Towson is located just north of Baltimore’s city center. It is best known as the home of Towson University, Maryland’s second-largest university. Towson might be a college town, but has all the benefits of living in a major metropolitan area, including shopping, entertainment, and family activities.
There are plenty of things to do for those living in Towson. Residents can visit the Towson Town Center mall, dine at one of the many restaurants, or catch a movie at the AMC Towson Town Center 16 movie theater. For those looking for something more active, residents can check out the Towson Sports Complex, which offers a variety of sports facilities and programs. There are also several parks in the area, and perfect for a picnic or a game of fetch with a furry friend.
Homes for sale in Towson, MD
Apartments for rent in Towson, MD
#3: Ellicott City, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 13
Population: 73,500
Median home sale price: $690,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,760
Walk Score: 23
Bike Score: 11
Transit Score: 23
Ellicott City, MD, is recognized for Centennial Park, which has won awards for its natural design and sensitivity to nature. The city is home to 73,000 residents and provides a welcoming and small-town feel. An interesting fact about the city is that its home to the oldest surviving railroad station in the U.S.
If you’re moving to Ellicott City, you won’t be disappointed by the wealth of things to do in the area. The area is known for its museums, like the Ellicott City B&O Railroad Station Museum and the Ellicott City Firehouse Museum, as well as the Howard County Historical Society. You can also catch a show at the Blackbox Theatre or browse the local galleries, like the Howard County Arts Council. And when you need to get some fresh air, you can explore one of the many parks, such as Centennial Park, Patapsco Valley State Park, and or Patapsco State Park.
Homes for sale in Ellicott City, MD
Apartments for rent in Ellicott City, MD
#4: Glen Burnie, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 13
Population: 70,000
Median home sale price: $360,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,457
Walk Score: 36
Bike Score: 22
Transit Score: 41
Glen Burnie, Maryland, is located in Anne Arundel County. The city has more than a dozen neighborhoods, each with its own local flavor.
There are plenty of things to do in Glen Burnie, Maryland. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking and biking trails at the nearby Patuxent River Park. History buffs can explore the Glen Burnie House, a historic home dating back to the 18th century. The Maryland Maritime Museum is also worth a visit, as is the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds. For shoppers, the Arundel Mills Mall is a popular destination. And for those looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from.
Homes for sale in Glen Burnie, MD
Apartments for rent in Glen Burnie, MD
#5: Severn, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 16
Population: 53,500
Median home sale price: $470,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2
Walk Score: 17
Bike Score: 16
Transit Score: 30
Severn, MD, is known for its industrial past, rich natural resources, and suburban feel. With a population of just 51, 000, it offers the benefit of small-city living with the perks of being located near many large cities, including Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.
Severn is a great place to move to, with plenty of places to visit. The downtown area has a vibrant art and culture scene, and you’ll never get tired of it. The city is also home to Jessup-Provinces Park, Lake Village Park, and Quail Run Dog Park – perfect for a relaxing day out. For a taste of what Severn has to offer, make sure to grab a bite to eat at China Sea Restaurant.
Homes for sale in Severn, MD
Apartments for rent in Severn, MD
#6: Columbia, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 20
Population: 105,500
Median home sale price: $425,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,751
Walk Score: 33
Bike Score: 28
Transit Score: 32
Columbia is known for being comprised of 10 self-contained villages. The village concept gives Columbia a small-town feel even though its population is 105, 500.
Living in Columbia means you’ll have access to a vibrant town center featuring Lake Kittamaqundi, a promenade, restaurants, a mall with a variety of shops, department stores, and a multiplex movie theater. Other popular attractions include the Columbia Museum of Art, the National Aquarium, and the Maryland Zoo.
Homes for sale in Columbia, MD
Apartments for rent in Columbia, MD
#7: Annapolis, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 30
Population: 39,500
Median home sale price: $550,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,360
Walk Score: 48
Bike Score: 35
Transit Score: 58
Annapolis, MD, is a beautiful city located on the water. It’s known as the Sailing Capital of the U.S. and home to the U.S. Naval Academy. Annapolis is also home to Romanesque-style buildings, such as St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, which features Tiffany glass windows.
There are a variety of things to do while living in Annapolis. Some popular attractions include visiting the United States Naval Academy, strolling through the historic district, and enjoying the waterfront. Restaurants and top-rated eateries are found in Annapolis, so you don’t want to skip over these local favorites. For a quick taste of the town, stop by Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, and Chevy’s Fresh Mex Restaurants.
Homes for sale in Annapolis, MD
Apartments for rent in Annapolis, MD
#8: Bowie, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 30
Population: 58,000
Median home sale price: $490,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,052
Walk Score: 25
Bike Score: 24
Transit Score: 38
The city of Bowie, Maryland, has a rich and diverse historic and cultural heritage. The city was incorporated in 1874 as Huntington but changed its name in honor of local resident Governor Oden Bowie. Bowie has since become a dynamic community and rivaling the most prosperous cities in the region.
If you’re looking for things to do in Bowie, Maryland, there are plenty of options available. You could visit the Bowie Train Museum, take a walk or hike through one of Bowie’s many parks, or check out the historic Bowie Town Center. Or, if you’re looking for something more active, you could play a round of golf at one of Bowie’s several golf courses or attend a concert or event at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts. And, of course, you could always shop at one of Bowie’s many retail stores and outlets. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time living in Bowie.
Homes for sale in Bowie, MD
Apartments for rent in Bowie, MD
#9: Silver Spring, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 35
Population: 81,000
Median home sale price: $540,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,852
Walk Score: 63
Bike Score: 63
Transit Score: 58
Silver Spring, Maryland, is a city located on the northern border of Washington, D.C. This city is a great place to live if you’re looking for all the entertainment and arts of a major city without the congestion and other issues that usually come with city living. Silver Spring is made up of many different neighborhoods, each of which feels more like the suburbs, and with quiet streets and plenty of space.
There is a lot to do in Silver Spring. There are plenty of great restaurants, bars, shops, and parks to explore. The American Film Institute Silver Theatre and the National Museum of African Art are both located in Silver Spring. Several great events take place in Silver Spring throughout the year, such as the Silver Spring Jazz Festival and the Silver Spring Blues Festival.
Homes for sale in Silver Spring, MD
Apartments for rent in Silver Spring, MD
#10: Germantown, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 48
Population: 90,000
Median home sale price: $391,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,743
Walk Score: 36
Bike Score: 37
Transit Score: 45
Germantown, MD, is a city with a lot to offer. Not only is it home to beautiful national parks, but it also has a rich history dating back to the Civil War. The city gets its name from the German settlers who opened shops along the main road during the 1800s. Today, Germantown is a welcoming and small-town feel city with various outdoor venues to visit, including peach orchards and farmers’ markets.
There are plenty of things to do for those living in Germantown. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in the historic downtown area, and the community is home to several parks, including the Seneca Creek State Park. There are also several events and festivals held throughout the year, such as the Germantown Oktoberfest and the Germantown Day Celebration.
Homes for sale in Germantown, MD
Apartments for rent in Germantown, MD
#11: Frederick, MD
Miles from Baltimore: 50
Population: 72,000
Median home sale price: $392,600
Average 1-bed rent: $1,767
Walk Score: 47
Transit Score: 47
Frederick, MD, which is home to 72, 000 people, has a 50-block historic district with a lot of Civil War history. It’s a small city, so you’ll get that small-town feel. An interesting detail is that Frederick served as a major hospital center during the Civil War for wounded soldiers. Another fun piece of information is that Frederick was home to Francis Scott Key and the author of the Star-Spangled Banner.
There are many things to do in Frederick, Maryland. The National Museum of Civil War Medicine, downtown Frederick with its shops and restaurants, the historic buildings, Gambrill State Park, the Monocacy National Battlefield, and the Weinberg Center for the Arts are just some of the attractions.
Homes for sale in Frederick, MD
Apartments for rent in Frederick, MD
Methodology: All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Baltimore. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.