MacRo, Ltd. is pleased to announce the sale of Lot 1, Section 1 in Ausherman Industrial Park for $462,500.  The buyer plans to construct and operate a concrete recycling facility on the property.

Property Address:  Ausherman Industrial Park on Reichs Ford Road

Lot Size:  2.95 acres

Legal Description: Map 77, Grid 18, Parcel 181

Listing Price: $560,000

Sale Price:  $462,500

Zoning:  GI – General Industrial

Closing Date:  January 31, 2013

Rocky Mackintosh represented the seller in this transaction.

For more information on how MacRo, Ltd. Real Estate Brokerage Services may be able to assist you in the sale or leasing of your commercial or industrial property, contact Rocky Mackintosh at 301-748-5655 or rocky@macroltd.com

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.

2013 Outlook: Excitement of an Improving Market

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding our current local real estate market

Optimism is in bloom throughout Frederick’s real estate market this spring.

The housing market appears to have entered a sustained recovery, which will ultimately have a positive impact on several sectors of the local commercial real estate market. With the 2012 election behind us, and the implementation of sequestration, commercial real estate prospects have begun to crawl out hibernation.

Though it’s too soon to call it a recovery for Frederick’s commercial real estate, activity has ramped up to the point where we expect this year to be better for MacRo than 2012 … which actually turned out to be one of the best in our 23 year history!

Real estate seekers are much more willing to submit proposals, while maintaining a deeply researched and conservative valuation process.

On the flip side, many property owners still hold a somewhat inflated perception of property values.  This gap in pricing perceptions has been one of the complex issues that have contributed to the sputtering recovery.

The good news is that with this activity, the “pricing gap” is narrowing.  Consider that the exciting times of simultaneous multiple offers are making a steady comeback.  And when demand begins to show signs of exceeding supply, this goes a long way toward establishing sustained momentum in the market.

2013 could well be the year that Frederick’s commercial real estate market shakes off the dust of the “great recession” and gets a clear-eyed view of where property values have finally landed.  That, more than anything, will help move the market into a full recovery.

With all this pent-up excitement, maybe it’s time to connect with us at MacRo, Ltd. about your real estate needs.

While the Real Estate Market Slept

During the trough of the recession, we began building a robust internet-based marketing platform that includes a website, blog, and weekly email newsletter.  The investment in time and money has been substantial, but we are finding it pays big returns for MacRo clients.

All told, traffic volume to MacRo’s website averages  5,000 visitors per month, nearly half of which are unique.  These visitors reach our site through internet search engines, our weekly email newsletters, and of course many are returning loyal readers of the MacRo Report Blog.

This is over and above the exposure MacRo properties get from commercial real estate listing services we subscribe to (including CoStar and Loopnet) and the residential service MRIS.  On average, MacRo’s portfolio of listings reaches an additional 15,000 brokers, buyers, and prospective tenants per month through these services.

That’s 20,000 potential buyers and tenants who cross paths with MacRo’s website and listings each month.

And it’s working.  More often than not, we are showing our clients’ properties to prospective buyers and tenants who found the listings through MacRo’s comprehensive internet marketing program.

Let us know how MacRo’s active marketing strategies can assist you in selling or leasing your commercial real estate assets.

For the latest news and trends impacting Frederick’s commercial real estate market, sign up for the MacRo Report.

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

Here’s the latest news…

Now Recorded: 20 Exclusive Estate Lots at Manor at Holly Hills

Site construction has begun on Manor at Holly Hills, a one-of-a-kind community situated on 185 idyllic acres just east of Frederick City.  The community includes 20 custom building lots ranging in size from 1.2 to 26 acres, with mature forest areas, streams, and untouched natural rock formations preserved.  MacRo has already received contracts on half of these lots, and continues to field a steady flow of inquiries from prospective buyers.

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.

Kathy Krach Joins MacRo’s Sales Team

 This past November, Kathy Krach made the transition from MacRo’s strategic marketing consultant to licensed commercial real estate agent.  She’ll still be contributing articles for the MacRo Report Blog, but with a new perspective now that she’s active on the sales side of the business.  Her consultative approach with clients is already proving quite successful and we’re happy to welcome her to MacRo’s sales team!

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

The professional Las Vegas style variety show produced a lot of laughter and amazement … and funds for a worthy cause!

It was a terrific event at the Weinberg Center for Arts last month … the house was packed with kids from the ages of 3 to 83 to experience the 4^th annual event.

The thirty-four thousand plus dollars in net proceeds benefited the Frederick YMCA, which has established a special fund to benefit programs for the children and families in Frederick’s Hillcrest and Waverly communities along the city’s Golden Mile area.

“We are very pleased with the success of the event,” said Chris Colville, the CEO of the YMCA, who co-chaired the event with Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd.

“This would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of our sponsors and advertisers,” she stated.

Mackintosh added that, “We are already in the process of set up the preparation of next year’s event that has already been set for Saturday evening, March 29, 2014.”

Each year for the last quarter century, the master of ceremonies, R.G. Smith of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania pulls together a new cast of performers from all over the country.  He offers his show to nonprofits throughout western Maryland and southern Pennsylvania during the late winter and spring of each year as a fundraising opportunity for the charities.

This year’s planning committee included and pictured above (L – R) Nancy Cline, Nancy H. Mackintosh, Rocky Mackintosh, Chris Colville, David Esworthy – Market President at First United Bank & Trust and Kim Hart, Director of Financial Development at the YMCA.

The Sponsors for this year’s event in Frederick were:

Graphcom Creative & Publishing, Gorilla Magazine, Plamondon Hospitality Partners, Frederick Mutual Insurance Company, Natelli Communities, MacRo, Ltd., Rodgers Consulting, SAIC and BB&T.

Major advertisers included:

Conewago Enterprises, Dan Ryan Builders, ProMark Real Estate, Cosmetic Skin & Surgery Center, First United Bank & Trust, Donald B. Rice, Dr. Mark Pitts, Fountain Rock/Brewer’s Alley, Frederick Gastroenterology Associates, Frederick Fence, Frederick Motor Company, Hood College, Manning Broadcasting, The Matan Companies, Miles & Stockbridge, Specialized Engineering, Volt Restaurants and Wolf Furniture.

Hundreds of others purchased ads and became patrons in support of the event.

So mark your calendars for next year’s show!!!

Business row in the 600 block of West Patrick Street is greeting a new neighbor.

As of December 1, 2012, long time local Realtor, Steve Fox, moved his real estate business into 620 W. Patrick Street.

This 3,033 SF building includes 6 offices, reception and conference areas, kitchen, partially finished basement.

Rocky Mackintosh represented the landlord, West Patrick Norva, LLC.

For more information on how MacRo, Ltd. Real Estate Brokerage Services may be able to assist you in the sale or leasing of your commercial or industrial property, contact Rocky Mackintosh at 301-748—5655 or rocky@macroltd.com.

Thank you to all our MacRo Report Blog readers who helped bring Charter government to our county!

The following excerpt is from the Frederick News Post news article by Pete McCarthy.

After failed attempts in the past, voters overwhelmingly approved a charter form of government in Tuesday’s election with 62 percent in favor. With all precincts reporting, county home rule was successful by a 58,751-to-35,443 vote.

“We did it,” Ken Coffey, chairman of the charter-writing board, said in a phone interview. “This is an exciting and historic moment for the people of Frederick County.”

The charter calls for a seven-member county council and an executive to run the day-to-day operations. Five of the council members will serve in districts and two will be at-large representatives.

Click Here to read the complete article.

 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.

Two Critical Election Issues

The following MacRo Report entry is written by Rocky Mackintosh, President of MacRo, Ltd. regarding our current local political market

In the midst of a very contentious Presidential campaign, some Frederick County, Maryland voters may be overlooking two significant subjects on the November 6th ballot.

BOARD OF EDUCATION RACE:

This is an important taxpayer issue since nearly 60% of property tax revenue is being entrusted to Frederick County Public Schools each year. Five candidates are seeking three openings on the seven member board. While voters are asked to cast a ballot for three of the five, I can only endorse Colleen Cusimano and Anthony Chmelik. Both of these candidates will bring strong fiscal experience and fresh perspective to improving education for all our students. The other candidates are more representative of the current status quo majority. I feel so strongly that I recommend supporters ONLY VOTE for CUSIMANO and CHMELIK, and leave the third choice blank.

CHARTER GOVERNMENT:

Question A on the ballot will ask voters this simple question: “Do you approve of the adoption of the Charter for Frederick County proposed by the Frederick County Charter Board?” As one who served as a member of the Charter Board, our county has grown and matured to the point that the concept of a five official committee running the government is no longer functional. The adoption of Charter Home Rule will implement an executive form of government and bring much
needed accountability, transparency, stability and efficiency to Frederick County Government. VOTE FOR on QUESTION A.

The Pressure of Pent Up Demand

There is one question that I am constantly asked: “How is the real estate market?” Whether they are actively engaged in real estate ownership or not, everyone wants to know. A healthy real estate market plays a significant role on the strength of our economy and provides revenue for government funding. Over the last five years of difficult economic adjustment, the real estate market has endured, but property has continued to change hands. While economic skepticism looms over the job market, tax policies and national debt, Frederick County has found enough stability to renew optimism in real estate investment.

Consider the excitement around the idea of a downtown hotel and conference center, as well as the growth of Frederick’s residential rental market and medical community … not to mention vacant store-front along Market Street is non-existent.

The MacRo team is engaged in assisting our clients in these and other exciting opportunities. Please let us know how we may be of service to you.

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!

Fall 2012 Land Market Update

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

Recent data indicates that residential real estate has hit the bottom of its cycle and is improving. My clients are asking how, and when, this will aect the market for land in our region.

Home prices are trending upward while the number of foreclosures are down. September data for Frederick County shows the average home sale price is up 8.5% from the previous year, while the number of active listings is down 29%. While most housing experts are forecasting an extended period of modest price increases, a recent report from Barclays Capital indicated that housing prices could rise between 5% and 7.5% annually through 2015 due to robust demand coupled with constraints in supply.

Typically, land lags behind the residential sector, and the market for land hasn’t been affected by the improving residential market yet. While CoStar reports that 2012 may be the first year since 2005 that the national volume of land sales will be higher than the previous year, buyers are proceeding with caution. Builders and developers require well located properties with low development risk, and all buyers are motivated by low prices.

The market for individual lots in Frederick County is still soft. The number of “buildable” lots sold thus far in 2012 and the median sale price are on target to match the low levels experienced over the past five years. One area of concern is the market for large properties: while four properties over 100 acres sold in 2011, only one has sold in 2012, and the number of active listings has swelled to twenty. Demand from investors and ‘gentleman farmers’ has all but evaporated and ‘full time farmers’ are only willing to purchase at prices that yield a positive return from agricultural activities. Agricultural preservation programs can reduce the cost of acquisition for established farmers, but government funding for these programs is down substantially over the past few years.

Regardless of the economic climate, opportunities always exist for buyers and sellers. Rocky and I have each been in the land business for over 20 years and are well-qualified to assist in the acquisition or disposition of farms, development land and buildable lots.

Please give us a call if we can help you in any way.

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 fall’s MacRo Report!

Here’s the latest news…

Rocky Mackintosh Receives Outstanding Citizen Award from Boy Scouts of America

As we mentioned in a previous MacRo post, this October, the Appalachian Trail District and Catoctin Mountain Districts Scouting communities joined with the Frederick County community to honor MacRo, Ltd. President, Rocky Mackintosh, for exemplifying the Scout ethos of service to others.

Rocky has been involved with numerous community foundations such as Frederick Memorial Hospital, Frederick County Charter Writing Board and other non-profits throughout Frederick County.

The Manor at Holly Hills Near Recordation

The Manor at Holly Hills development project continues to progress. Well drilling is nearly complete and nal county approvals and plat recording are expected by the end of this year. As the listing broker for this new luxury residential community, MacRo has already received many non-binding letters of intent.

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.

158 Acre Farm Sold

MacRo, Ltd. recently closed the sale of a large Montgomery County farm with an adjoining lot to a local family for non-development use.

Through this offering, we have generated a number of prospects interested in property in the Dickerson, Comus and Barnesville areas. Let us know if you have property there that you would like to list!

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

17th Annual “George Delaplaine” Distinguished Citizen of the Year Awarded to Mackintosh

Each year the local Boy Scouts of America communities in the Appalachian Trail District and Catoctin Mountain Districts join with the Frederick County community to honor a citizen who exemplifies the Scout ethos of service to others.

This year, the 17th Annual “George Delaplaine” Distinguished Citizen Dinner, honored Earl M. “Rocky” Mackintosh, III.

The evening is a celebration of service and Scouting, as well as a major fundraising event for both Districts.

This year, the dinner was held on Thursday, October 11th at the Holiday Inn Conference Center and raised over $70,000 for the cause of scouting in Frederick County.

The proceeds from the event enable young men of the greater Frederick area benefit from attending scouting functions, camping, training adult leaders, and supporting individual scouting units.  For over 100 years, the National Capital Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America has been preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetime by instilling in them the values of the Scout oath and Law.

The program included excellent presentations of  ”What Scouting Means to Me” by Christopher Platt of Crew 394 and Alexis Ramsey of Crew 121.

President and CEO of FMH-Frederick Regional Health System. Tom Kleinhanzl, served as the chairman of the event.  In his statement of recognition of the honoree he stated the following:

“I had the good fortune and luck to have been coupled with Rocky early in his tenure as an FMH Board member and in my tenure as President of FMH… He filled virtually every leadership role possible during his recent eight year tenure on our Board. 

“Most importantly, while associated with the FMH Board, Rocky fostered a sense of engagement, always putting first the broader communities’ needs first in his thoughts, words, and deeds … [he] has a keen appreciation and understanding of the fine line between a board’s fiduciary responsibility and micromanagement.  He was the consummate Chairman, leading us towards a vision that our organization, and more importantly, our community, could be proud.” 

Mr. Kleinhanzl added a quote from Dr. Gregory Powell, referring to Rocky as “an agent of change. He has the uncanny ability to see what needs attention when others are either content with the status-quo or frustrated but unsure why … he looks at the big picture and finds the most advantageous ways to put change in motion. This usually involves educating and training people to see problems differently and approach them more effectively. The combination of urgency to the task and compassion for the people involved makes Rocky an admired leader.”

Aside from Frederick Memorial Hospital, Mackintosh has served on the board of directors of a number of organizations such as the Community Foundation of Frederick, Goodwill Industries, including two private school boards. He currently serves on the board of the Frederick Alliance for Youth and the Frederick County Charter Writing Board, as well as those of several local businesses, including over twenty years as a trustee of the Frederick Mutual Insurance Company.

Past recipients of the Delaplaine Distinguished Citizen Award are well known to the Frederick community:

Peter H. Plamondon, Sr., George B. Delaplaine, Jr., James K. Kluttz, Charles A. Nicodemus, Gail T. Guyton, Al Shockley, DeWalt “De” Willard, George R. Houston, Jr., Donal C. Linton, Robert E. Gearinger, Bert Anderson, O. James Talbott, Jr., J. Brian Gaeng, Marvin E. Ausherman, Peter H. Plamondon, Jr., James N. Plamondon, and W. Clay Martz, II.

The primary sponsors of the event included:

BB&T, Dan Ryan Builders, Inc., Everedy Square, Shab Row, Fenestra Technologies, Frederick County Bank, GTI Federal, Hood College, Ideal Buick-GMC-Hyundai, McLean Koehler Sparks & Hammond, Morgan-Keller, N. E. Bob Waltz Plumbing and Heating, Plamondon Companies, PNC Bank, SunTrust Bank, Ausherman Family Foundation, Frederick Memorial Hospital, Frederick Mutual Insurance, M & T Bank, MacRo, Ltd., SAIC, WESTAT and George Delaplaine, Jr of Great Southern Enterprises, who served as the underwriter for the event.