Friday, March 4, 2016

Kids in the Kitchen

Do you love to cook? How about bake? If you love to be in the kitchen, it is likely that your kids will, too. So how can you get them involved, even at a young age?

When you are cooking in the kitchen, bring your kids in there with you. Babies and toddlers are amazingly aware of what is going on around them. Even if they can’t help, they will likely enjoy watching and being a part of your joy. Always start with kitchen safety so your child can grow up knowing the importance of safety in any kitchen.


Once your child is old enough to help out, which will vary depending on the child, you can give them jobs. At as young as 2 years old, your toddler can help you add ingredients, gather ingredients, and even help mix. While you are assigning them tasks, you can also make it into a learning experience. Remember that everything is new to children, and the simple ingredients you have been using for years may be a complete adventure for your little one! Taste test the ingredients, and have them feel the different textures and smells.

Once your child is a little older they can start measuring ingredients, greasing the pans, and maybe even stirring the food on the stove. Your child might be able to help with recipes and new ideas, and even start cooking on their own. If you prepare your child young, there is no end to what they can achieve!


How do you get your kids involved in the kitchen? Join our Facebook Group: New Dads United to tell us your ideas!

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Are You Ready for a Kitchen Renovation?


Your kitchen is probably the same as most, the center of the house where everybody seems to gather. As you look around your kitchen do you think, “this is a fully functional kitchen and I love the layout”? Or do you constantly add different renovations to your mental kitchen-improvement checklist? How do you know you are really ready for a kitchen renovation?



The first question to ask yourself is whether you will be doing the work yourself, or if you will be hiring a contractor to do it. If you will be doing the work yourself, it could cut costs greatly, but may take longer than if you were to hire somebody. If you are not an experienced DIYer, then you will need to start researching the projects you will be doing.

You will need to create a budget for your renovation. In most cases it will be better to save up enough money to complete the entire project rather than doing it by bits and pieces. If you do the floors one month, then the cabinets in two months, and then the walls in the next six months, your kitchen will be partly done for almost a year, and will be a cause of great frustration. HGTV has ten steps for budgeting for your kitchen renovation that will help you with this step.



Think about what work you want to do. Draw out, or design your perfect kitchen. If your space is limited and abnormally shaped, you will need to think outside of the box to get the kitchen you want. If you have a larger, open space you might want to consider an island table in the middle. The options are endless. If you decide to use a professional to do the work, they will be able to work up a few kitchen design ideas for you. They know the sizes and styles cabinets come in, as well as the appliances, so they can give you a great plan that is to scale.

Once you have completed your plan and saved up the money, it is time to get started. If you are doing the work yourself, it would be a good idea to take some time off of work to complete it so you are not stuck working every night after work. If you are hiring somebody in, you will need to be available to direct and answer any questions regarding the new kitchen.

A kitchen renovation can be as little as paint and new cabinet hardware, or as big as an entire kitchen tear out. Whichever way you go, contact me for a great contractor in the area. 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         

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

FEATURED PROPERTY!! 1723 Clarkson Street




This is a must-see home! It is 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 3200 Square Feet!
It is a one-of-a-kind custom-built for the owner within the existing brick structure using all new and the best materials with custom features.



Each floor is raised for taller ceilings, extended out 15 feet! The top floor offers a private master suite, luxury bath, laundry, walk-in closet, and large balcony, city views. This gorgeous home also offers a gourmet kitchen, custom cabinets, silestone, stainless-steel appliances, gas cooktop, half bath, solid wood floors on the main floor and 2nd bedroom. There is a Parking Pad and a finished basement.



Contact me for more information on this amazing home!
Ian Lobas of The Lobas Group of Keller Williams Excellence.
2331 York Rd. Timonium, MD 21093.
410-560-5858 Brokerage
443-219-7059

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Top 5 Kid Friendly Restaurants Near Hunt Valley

Looking to go out and enjoy a good meal, but want to bring the kids? Look no further, this is the information you need! Here are the top 5 kid-friendly and delicious restaurants in the area.



  1. CuVino Trattoria Pizza Enoteca, located in Timonium, offers a variety of Italian entrees, lunch, dinner, and of course, pizza. This place is a must try!

  1. Burger Bros in Towson. This burger joint offers sandwiches, fries, hot dogs, and more at an affordable price. You can carry out, or eat in.

  1. First Watch in Timonium. Offering breakfast, brunch, and lunch, this is a great place to eat. Their kid’s menu offers a great selection for even the picky eaters!

  1. The Greene Turtle in Hunt Valley offers a large menu and a great atmosphere. You can go to watch the game, or just for a meal.

  1. Nalley Fresh in Hunt Valley is quick and easy. Their menu offers fresh foods including wraps, bowls, and more. There is something for everyone.

What is your favorite kid-friendly restaurant around Hunt Valley? 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         

Monday, February 29, 2016

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.

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

  1. 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.


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

  1. 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