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Showing posts with the label Permits

Selling a House with Code Violations in Baltimore County

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Baltimore County features a rich variety of historic and established neighborhoods, from the tree-lined streets of Catonsville and Towson to the close-knit waterfront communities of Dundalk and Essex. Many of these areas feature older properties with immense character. However, older homes require constant, skilled maintenance. When life events—such as probate, health changes, or financial constraints—prevent a homeowner from keeping up with property maintenance, a common local challenge often arises: county code violations. Understanding how to address Baltimore County housing violations is critical if you are planning to sell a property in poor condition. 1. The Reality of Baltimore County Code Enforcement Baltimore County operates a proactive Code Enforcement division. Neighbors can report issues, and county inspectors regularly monitor communities to ensure properties comply with safety and aesthetic standards. According to the Baltimore County Government , common violations that t...

Selling a House with Unpermitted Work in Montgomery County, MD

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 The "Silent Deal Killer" in Montgomery County: Selling a Home with Unpermitted Work If you own a home in Silver Spring, Rockville, or Bethesda that was renovated in the 1980s or 90s, there is a decent chance you are sitting on a time bomb. It’s called the "Unpermitted Finished Basement." Thirty years ago, many homeowners finished their basements or built decks with the help of a "handy neighbor" or a weekend contractor. They didn't pull permits. They didn't get electrical inspections. They just got it done. In 2026, those decisions are coming back to haunt sellers. The "MoCo" Compliance Reality Montgomery County has some of the strictest code enforcement in the state. Unlike some rural counties where unpermitted work is viewed as a minor annoyance, Montgomery County buyers—and their lenders—treat it as a major liability. We are seeing a rising trend of retail deals falling apart at the 11th hour because a buyer’s agent pulled the permit ...