Top 5 Reasons to Live Near Baltimore

If you are local to the area, you already know many reason why this is a great area to live in! I have compiled a list of the top 5 reasons why living in or around Baltimore is a great idea!

1. Educational Opportunities! There are many great public school districts in the area. There are also multiple opportunities for higher education.

2. Top Medical Facilities in the Area. Baltimore is home to John Hopkins Hospital and the John Hopkins School of Medicine.

3. Mild Climate. This area isn’t all of the way south, or all of the way north, and generally has a mild climate with distinguished seasons throughout the year.

4. Housing Opportunities. There are multiple housing opportunities available in the area for all levels of income.

5. Entertainment. The Baltimore area has entertainment of every variety. There are local sports teams, concerts, festivals, races, and more. There is something for everyone! 

Do you live in or around Baltimore? What is your top reason to live here? Join my Facebook group and let me know!

Ian Lobas of The Lobas Group of Keller Williams Excellence.

2331 York Rd. Timonium, MD 21093.

410-560-5858 Brokerage

443-219-7059         

New Home Kid Safety

You have found a great home to move into. But is it ready for the kids to move in too? There are many ways kids can get hurt inside your home, so when you move in, make sure you are prepared for these things!

·      Window Locks: Engage child locks on the windows if you have them.

·      Standing Water: Are the pool and hot tub areas secured from wandering kids? Are there any ponds that need secured in your yard? It only takes a minute for a wandering child to have a deadly accident.

·      Hot Water: Did you know you can adjust your hot water heater? Adjust the temperature to 120 to prevent scalding.

·      Chemicals: Cleaning supplies and even beauty products contain a variety of chemicals that can hurt your child. Keep these in  locked area.

·      Outlets and Wires: Put outlet covers in any unused outlet. With young children, keep wires hidden.

·      Smoke Detectors: Change the batteries and test all detectors in the home.

·      Baby Gates: Are your stairs secured by a baby gate? Any areas you want the young children to stay away from can be gated off using a baby gate.

As a new parent, it is hard to know if you are being diligent in keeping the baby safe. Follow this guide to new home safety! Join our Facebook Group: New Dads United to tell us your ideas!

Why Get a Home Inspection?

Buying a home? Understanding what a home inspection is goes a long way in helping you make the decision to get one.

Home inspectors are trained and experienced in inspecting your soon-to-be home from top to bottom. There are many different aspects of a home that you may not be aware of.

An inspector thoroughly inspects the home’s structure, including the foundation, walls, crawlspace, and more. He will get onto the roof and inspect for damages as well as estimate the age of the roof.

Plumbing is another large item the inspector covers. He inspects for leaks and properly working pipes. Your home’s drainage systems, including gutters and downspouts, will also be inspected.

The exterior of the home is just as important as the interior. Damaged siding or peeling paint can be an indicator of a deeper issue. Windows and doors will also be inspected for tight seals and that they are in working order.

The HVAC will be inspected to verify it has been maintained and is working as it should be. The interior will be inspected from top to bottom for any damages or issues, and the attic insulation will be reviewed to make sure it is as it should be.

There are many more items that a home inspector reviews. When you are ready to buy, contact me for a great home inspector recommendation. We at The Lobas Group are here to help you with your real estate needs! If you are unsure what your options are, call me, Ian Lobas at (410) 560-5858 or email me at listwithian@gmail.com. You can also visit us at our website for available listings and additional information.

Ian Lobas of The Lobas Group of Keller Williams Excellence

2331 York Rd. Timonium, MD 21093

410-560-5858 Brokerage

443-219-7059

Top Baltimore Area Bars

Want to try something new this weekend? USA Today rates the 10 best bars in Baltimore. I have listed the top 5 for you.

1. The Brewer’s Art is said to have light and delicious homebrews and a European cuisine. Offering a relaxing atmosphere, it is a must try!

2. Mt. Washington Tavern is a neighborhood restaurant which offers great food, atmosphere, and bar options.

3. XS is a multi-level café with a variety of specialty cocktails, wines, and brews for any palette.

4. Pratt Street Ale House offers great pub food and ale choices. A great place to enjoy a pub atmosphere.

5. DuClaw Brewing Company holds a variety of signature brews and offers appetizing bar food. If you are looking for a full entrée, they have that too!

Visit one or two this weekend and let me know if USA Today was right! What is your favorite bar in the area? Join my Facebook group and let me know!

Ian Lobas of The Lobas Group of Keller Williams Excellence.

2331 York Rd. Timonium, MD 21093.

410-560-5858 Brokerage

443-219-7059         

Best Toys for a New Baby

Before babies start really moving around, they seem like they are just sitting there not doing anything. In reality they are taking in their surroundings and learning from everything near them, so stimulating their senses is something you can start doing right away.

At around a month old, babies start to focus on things around them more. They love visual and auditory things. Bright colors and patterns along with pleasing music and sounds can make their day great! So what can you do to help your baby have a great day?

• Turn on the radio or play some soft music for her.
• Get a mobile with bright colors and patterns. Just remember not to put it within the baby’s reach!
• Get an unbreakable mirror and position it so she can see herself. She doesn’t know who it is yet, but soon will!
• Any sensory toys are great for any baby. These toys can make noises when interacted with, have bright colors, and some even play lullabies.
• It is never too early to read to your baby. Get some soft books with crunchy pages and rattles inside. This will keep your baby entertained while you read the pages.
• If the weather permits, take the baby outside in a nice shaded area to lay on a blanket and watch the trees, birds, and clouds. This is a very calming adventure for the baby because she gets fresh air and a new experience!
• Your baby is probably kicking and punching her arms a lot by now, so get some sock and wrist rattles to teach her cause and effect. You will be amazed at how quickly she learns that noise happens when she moves! 

What are toys that you have found to be baby’s favorite? Join our Facebook Group: New Dads United to tell your ideas!