Greenbook: A Local Guide to Chesapeake Living - Issue 6 | Page 20

neighborhood demographics to a particular statistic. Bay Ridge is a collection of old and new structures, historic and renovated homes, and a healthy mix of singles, families, retirees and even weekenders. Currently there are ten homes for sale in the neighborhood, with an average selling price of $1.2 million. In 2014, properties sold on average in just 69 days. Sales in 2015 so far are up 63% from 2014. From a realtor’s perspective I think Bay Ridge is a prudent property investment. In fact, the neighborhood is a very tight market, largely because the many amenities it offers are covetable. Although homes in the neighborhood are more expensive than others in Anne Arundel County (the 2015 median sold price for property in Bay Ridge is $944,500, with an average selling price per square foot of $386), perks like a non-mandatory annual community association fee of $150, a private marina with affordable slips, a waterfront pool with a bond fee of just $400 per family, two miles of unimpeded beach and waterfront accessible to all residents and private nature trails owned by the community define the Bay Ridge lifestyle. In fact, I can’t think of any other neighborhood in the region with so many wonderful ways to be active, engaged and involved. Bay Ridge inherently promotes an outdoor lifestyle, with access to kayaking, 20 greenbook | fall & Winter 2015 swimming, sailing, boating and other waterfront fun. The Community Association has a full roster of events for all ages, from a swim team and summer camp to seasonal celebrations, holiday parties throughout the year and even a play that neighborhood kids practice and perform. We also cherish our quiet roads that are safe for walking, running and bicycling. The neighborhood is a special tax district. Monies raised through our taxes are used in part to fund community amenities and an extensive network of private greenways and trails. The tax also funds a county police officer assigned specifically to the community. Bay Ridge retains the charm of a resort with the elegance of a conscientiously developed community. This is just a relaxing place to be. When you come home from a stressful day at work, you can walk down to the beach with a glass of wine and just feel the weight of the day roll away. There is something very special and unique about that. If you are thinking about selling or buying in our great Bay Ridge neighborhood, or maybe just have a question about the local real estate market, please feel free to call me at 443.699.2689. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in any way.