This current issue of the MacRo Report is being distributed to more than 15,000 residents and others who are interested in Frederick County, Maryland land and commercial real estate news and information.

Reason for Optimism

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding our current local real estate market
With this year’s early spring sunshine, the climate of the land and commercial real estate market in Frederick County, Maryland is also looking brighter.

As stated in our previous MacRo Report, it is the collective decision making of real estate buyers and sellers that ultimately creates economic swings. Part of the recovery process is a growing level of confidence by these participants that ignites a positive shift in the market.

After nearly 5 years of retooling, business and development interests are seeing growth opportunities. With the support of our local governments, many obsolete regulatory hurdles are being removed as well.

As in past recoveries, industry leaders are cautiously coming out of the shade with a willingness to take risks that just one year ago would have been judged as crazy. It then becomes a case of “follow the leader” as others hear that the weather is fine.

Sometimes the economic comeback is equivalent to an avalanche, but that is unlikely this time. Big lessons were learned by some of the best in their fields this last downturn; so the cautiousness found in the market is healthy and should clear a steady and sustainable path for growth.

Part of the process involves real estate owners continuing to review their inventory, as many are still undertaking the often painful process of “deleveraging.” Optimistic investors and buyers are finding some incredible opportunities. From this alone, the recent transaction activity in our market has increased significantly.

As a buyer or seller, if you have been in the shade for a while, we invite you to step into the sun light.

Let us know how the MacRo, Ltd. team can be of assistance.

Frederick Properties Are Moving!

Frederick County saw steady improvements in sales volume and prices throughout all sectors of the commercial real estate market during 2011. Washington, D.C. is thankfully one of the strongest markets for jobs and for commercial real estate, and no doubt Frederick County will continue to see a trickle effect from that. As we head into spring, MacRo is definitely seeing a trend of increased interest from both buyers and sellers looking to get into the market, although financing is still the primary obstacle for many looking to buy.

Whether you are looking for retail, office or general commercial space, check out some of our new or current listings or give us a call at 301-698-9696.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!

Discover What Key Factors are Effecting Your Land Parcel Price

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Dave Wilkinson, Vice President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding the current factors that can influence the market price of land in Frederick, Maryland.

The land market in Frederick County is showing signs of increased activity this spring, as many land owners finally determine they are unwilling or unable to wait out the recession. Every potential seller who calls is interested in knowing “What’s the market value of my property?” On the most basic level, the answer is “whatever someone is willing to pay you for it,” but that generally isn’t a satisfactory response!

Here is a list of key influencers on land parcel prices:

• LOCATION: Valuations will differ dramatically for a lot located in a high-demand suburban area like Urbana versus rural lots in north and west areas of Frederick County.
• ZONING: Commercially zoned land fetches the highest price per acre, followed by residential and then agricultural.
• UTILITIES: Are electric, telephone, natural gas and/or internet service available to the property, or are extensions needed? Is water and sewer provided by public systems or private well and septic?
• IMPROVEMENTS: If there are existing buildings, are they functional or obsolete, and what is their condition?
• SIZE: “Price per acre” is an overly simplistic measure – as property size increases, price per acre declines.
• TERRAIN: Is the property flat, gently rolling, or steep? Is the land wooded, tillable or pasture?
• ACCESS: How much road frontage exists, and will access points meet governmental standards for road adequacy, separation from adjoining property entrances, and required site distance?
• AESTHETICS: Views, road or industrial noise, and condition of adjoining properties can enhance or detract value.

Interested in what the value of your property is? Call today!

Dave is a licensed Realtor and brokers many of MacRo’s real estate building lot listings, using his knowledge of zoning and subdivision regulations, real estate market conditions, and land development options to help MacRo’s clients achieve their goals. Contact Dave at 301-748-5670 or dave@macroltd.com

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!

Here’s the latest news…

The Manor at Holly Hills Website has Launched

MacRo has developed an informational website for the Manor at Holly Hills, a future luxury residential community of 21 estate lots east of Frederick City. Visitors to the new site can learn more about this future community and follow along with each step of its development. The lots are scheduled to be recorded in July 2012.

Visit www.manorathollyhills.com for sitemaps, amenities, and frequent updates on the project status.

To arrange a personal tour of the lots and for additional information, contact Rocky Mackintosh at 301-698-9696 ext. 202 or rocky@macroltd.com.

MacRo Sells “Golden Mile” Commercial Building Lot to FAY

MacRo, Ltd. recently closed the sale of a commercial building lot off Hillcrest Drive to the nonprofit organization Frederick Alliance for Youth (FAY). FAY plans to build and operate a community center on the property that will provide much-needed support, encouragement and positive diversions for young people and families who live in the Hillcrest and Waverly areas. Within the next 30 months, the organization hopes to open the proposed 44,000 SF facility that will house a public charter school and will provide additional space for neighborhood before and after-school activities.

New Addition to the MacRo Team

Kathy Krach joined the MacRo, Ltd. team as Strategic Marketing Analyst in November 2011. Her strong analytical talents help develop cutting edge marketing programs designed to deliver the best results for MacRo clients. She will also handle editing, research, and some writing for the MacRo Report blog. Kathy has significant experience in writing and marketing, including 7 years spent working for publicly-traded real estate companies including the Ryland Group and Resource Mortgage Capital (now Dynex Capital Inc.), where she held positions in marketing, corporate communications, and investor relations. She graduated McDaniel College with a  B.A. in Economics and Business Administration. Kathy lives in Frederick County with her husband and three children.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!

This current issue of the MacRo Report was released today to over 20,000 residents and others who are interested in Frederick County, Maryland land and commercial real estate news and information.

Decisions, Decisions

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding the importance of wise choices.

When one peels away the layers of the real estate onion, what is found at its core is the human element. It’s the decisions that people make that impact everything having to do with real estate.

Very obvious, you might say, but it is the collective decision making of people that impacts the peaks and valleys of business and economic cycles.

Like a flock of birds, it starts with one and others often follow.

The real estate boom of the last decade followed a similar pattern. It seemed that “incredible”opportunities just kept coming, so many decided to follow suit. When the merry–go-round stopped, the decision for those who could afford to was to“wait and see.”

The real estate market is now five years into its downturn, and many of those sideline observers have decided to sell. Their independent decisions are based upon their personal or business circumstances.

After nearly 40 years in the land and commercial real estate business in Frederick and its surrounding counties, MacRo, Ltd., has been there to assist our friends and clients in providing each with the information necessary to make wise real estate decisions.

How may we help you?

Market Conditions Continue to Improve!

Some sectors of the economy are showing promise even as the stock market continues its wild roller coaster ride of the last few months. The National Association of Realtors reports that existing home sales increased in August, with monthly gains seen in all regions. Projections for commercial vacancy rates from the third quarter of 2011 to the third quarter of 2012 are expected to decline, and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance namedWashington D.C., as third on its list of the nation’s top 10 innovative cities that have potential for growth over the next decade. These numbers reflect the momentum we’ve experienced in Frederick County over the last few months. MacRo has continued to see lots of movement in various sectors of the market, including the properties pictured here.

Whether you are looking for retail, office or general commercial space, check out some of our new or current listings or give us a call at 301-698-9696.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this fall’s MacRo Report!

Have You Heard?

Part-time Research/ Writing Assistant Needed

MacRo, Ltd. is on the hunt again for a parttime research/writing assistant to research, interview and write articles in collaboration with the company owner on real estate and related political issues of interest every week for MacRo Report Blog posts, press releases, social media, etc. MORE INFORMATION

Introducing Our Newest Staff Member!

We would like to introduce our newest team member, Sherri Mercer, executive assistant to Rocky Mackintosh and property manager. Sherri brings more than 13 years of experience in financial and operational management to MacRo. She is responsible for managing the office and the company’s financial operations, including monthly, quarterly and annual accounting and property management statements and reports.  MORE

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Click here to download the complete PDF version of this fall’s MacRo Report!

Middletown Valley Farm

If you are looking for land that will allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, MacRo has many choice farm properties worth considering. Located just north of Middletown, Md., this 210 acre working farm offers highly productive land, with more than 65 percent designated Class I, II or III agriculture soils. The farm also comes with a huge Butler machine shed, bank barn and dairy barn. A picturesque creek meanders through portions of the property, which features breathtaking views of the nearby Catoctin Mountains. The existing residence offers plenty of living space with three bedrooms, two baths and three fireplaces. Under the property’s existing Ag zoning, one conventional subdivision right and several agricultural cluster subdivision rights remain. Several tenant houses are allowed by zoning rights as well. Offered at $2,080,000.

Comus Farm

Located in the heart of western Montgomery horse country, this 158-acre farm in Dickerson is near the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain and just down the road from the famous Comus Inn. Enjoy the best of what life in the country offers, including the property’s rolling hills, peaceful pond and long, welcoming driveway that is flanked by white board fencing. The existing farm house offers loads of charming features and architectural details, and there are numerous outbuildings as well. This farm offers the solitude and privacy of rural living—all within minutes of I-270. For sale at $1,649,000.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this fall’s MacRo Report!

Here’s the latest news…

Charter Board Continues Its Outreach

As of Sept. 1, members of the Charter Board appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to write a proposed new constitution for Frederick County had given more than 20 presentations on their work to organizations throughout the community.

These public outreach sessions have generated strong audience participation from which many very good ideas, comments and conversations have resulted. In September, the board held a forum featuring two experienced Maryland County Executives, Ken Ulman of Howard County and David Craig of Harford County. Additional public meetings are planned to include representatives from other counties.

Rocky Mackintosh is a member of the board and like the other members, is available to give presentations on the process to groups of friends and neighbors, civic clubs and other organizations. For further information contact Frederick County’s Legislative Coordinator Ragen Cherney at 301-600-1049 or email him at RCherney@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

Good News for the Golden Mile

MacRo continues to help Frederick Alliance for Youth (FAY) open a community center that will provide much-needed support, encouragement and positive diversions for young people and families who live in the Hillcrest and Waverly areas. Plans are being finalized for FAY to purchase a 2.42 site MacRo owns off of Hillcrest Drive. By August of 2012, the organization hopes to open the proposed 44,000 square foot facility that will house the Frederick Classical Charter School, and which will provide additional space for neighborhood before- and after-school activities. Visit www.frederickallianceforyouth.org for more details and updates.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this fall’s MacRo Report!

This current issue of the MacRo Report was released today to over 20,000 residents and others who are interested in Frederick County, Maryland land and commercial real estate news and information.

The Market is Springing to Life!

Spring has traditionally been a month when lots of things come to life, and the local real estate market is no exception. We’ve spent the last few months putting the finishing touches on a number of sales, leases and contracts, including:

Our region continues to lead the nation in many areas of the real estate recovery. In fact, Bloomberg Business Wire recently reported that Chain Links Retail Advisers named the Washington D.C. market first in its “Power Rankings” due to the region’s low unemployment, shopping center vacancy rates and continued high levels of retailer demand.

Whether you are looking for retail,office or general commercial space, check out some of our new or current listings or give us a call at 301-698-9696. Don’t forget about our fantastic farms for sale!

Have You Heard?

We’ve moved again!

After a brief stay in temporary quarters, please take note that we have put down roots in the Westview Office Court Condominiums, 5300 Westview Drive, Suite 302, Frederick,Maryland 21703. Stop by any time to say hello and learn more about our many exciting properties and projects. GET DIRECTIONS

Introducing Our Newest Staff Member!

Sarah Koons is our new Director of Marketing and brings more than six years of marketing and advertising experience in web, social media and branding efforts. Sarah will use her experience in designing and implementing effective marketing strategies to take MacRo to the next level of community awareness,web presence, and improved overall branding. MORE

A New Government for Frederick County?

MacRo President Rocky Mackintosh was recently appointed by the Frederick County Board of County Commissioners to a nine-member Charter Home Rule Board to write a new constitution for the county. Read all about it on the MacRo Report Blog!

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding the recent uptick in the real estate market.

Being a land broker, I thought this would be an appropriate opener for our Spring ’11 edition of the MacRo Report!

While we are often known for expressing our opinions and perspectives on local and community issues, the kicked up dirt I’m talking about is what happens in the real estate business when activity is brisk… especially after a dry spell.

The land and commercial real estate market has experienced some slow times over the last three years, but now the buyers are back—and the sellers are listening.The leasing markets are seeing more prospects out looking as well.

Properties are changing hands again and we are happy to be in the mix!

If I were still the naïve young real estate agent I was back in the early 1970s, I’d tell you that it was all about the incredible integrated web-based marketing program we initiated last year, but I will give the slight uptick in the local economy “some” of the credit!

With that said, however,MacRo has been converting listings into sales at seriously increased levels! And more property owners are seeking our services as they join our growing list of email subscribers.

Have YOU signed up for our weekly Thursday email newsletter of MacRo Report Blog posts and current property offerings? If not,we hope you will!

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!

MacRo is partnering with the Frederick Alliance for Youth (FAY) to bring a new community center to the Hillcrest area of Frederick.

MacRo owns a 2.42 acre site that is located adjacent to the City’sHOPE VI townhouses off Hillcrest Drive. FAY has contracted to purchase the property and has plans to develop a 30,000 square foot community center on the site. The facility will also house the Carroll Creek Montessori School, a public charter school.

Work is currently underway to obtain all appropriate zoning approvals, with construction tentatively scheduled to begin later this year. The Ausherman Family Foundation provided a large grant to get the ball rolling and FAY will soon begin a major capital campaign to raise additional funds to support the project.

Frederick Alliance for Youth is a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 to promote and support positive change in the Hillcrest and Waverly communities. Scott Alexander, FAY president and CEO, says plans for the new community center include a gym, playground, computer lab, classrooms, stage, teen center, music room and more. “The goal is for the facility to serve the 300 or so Montessori school students during the day and then partner with other agencies who can make use of the space in the afternoons and evenings to serve kids and families in the community.”

Visit www.frederickallianceforyouth.org to learn more about the organization and to contribute to the capital campaign to support the construction of the community center.

Click here to download the complete PDF version of this spring’s MacRo Report!