Isaiah Jackson with The Pomfrey Team of Cummings & Co. Realtors

12/17/2025

Honored to be recognized as a Best of BusinessRate 2025 Real Estate Agent in Nottingham, Maryland 🏆
Grateful for every client who trusted me with one of the biggest decisions of their life — this award is because of you. Thank you for the support and amazing reviews!

12/02/2025

Why ‘How Long Has This Home Been on the Market?’ Is One of the Smartest Questions Buyers Can Ask

When you ask the question, “How long has this home been on the market?” you’re tapping into one of the most revealing clues about a property’s value, demand, and how you might approach an offer. In real estate, the term “days on market” (DOM) tells you exactly how many days a home has been actively listed for sale before going under contract. This number starts counting from the first day a listing appears on the local MLS and only stops when an offer is accepted.

So why is this number so important? A lower DOM—just a few days or weeks—usually means the house is fresh on the market and could attract multiple offers. Properties that linger longer than the average DOM for their neighborhood might be overpriced or have issues that turned off earlier buyers. However, long market times can also mean an opportunity for buyers. Sellers with homes sitting for a while are often more open to negotiations or price reductions, creating a potential advantage if you’re ready with a strong, realistic offer.

As you tour homes or browse listings online, always check the days on market. Compare with the area’s averages and use it as a conversation starter with your real estate agent—sometimes the story behind a long DOM can reveal crucial details about the property or sellers’ motivation.

Are you trying to make sense of days on market stats, or wondering if a “stale” listing could be your best deal yet? Reach out today! I’m Isaiah Jackson, Buyer/Seller Specialist with The Pomfrey Team of Cummings & Co. Realtors. Let’s put my experience and market knowledge to work for your real estate goals—call/text 443.903.9293 or email [email protected] for expert advice on your next move.

11/29/2025

When you walk into a home tour or open house, it’s easy to get caught up in the staging and decor—but your focus should be on the things you can’t easily change. Start with the big-picture items: location, layout, and natural light. Ask yourself if the flow of the home fits your lifestyle, if the bedrooms and common areas are the right size, and if the overall feel of the neighborhood matches what you want day to day. Try to imagine your furniture in the space, your commute from that address, and your routines in that kitchen and living room.

Next, look closely at the home’s condition. Check ceilings, walls, and around windows for signs of water damage or cracking. Pay attention to floors that slope, doors that don’t close properly, or strong smells that might be masking issues. Take note of the age and condition of major systems like the roof, HVAC, water heater, and windows—these are big-ticket items that can impact your budget soon after moving in. Don’t forget storage: closets, pantry, garage, basement, and attic all matter more than the fancy staging.

Finally, step outside and evaluate the exterior and surroundings. Look at the condition of the siding, gutters, grading (does water drain away from the house?), driveway, and any decks or patios. Listen for traffic noise, check parking, and pay attention to the vibe of the street. Take photos and notes so you can compare homes later with a clear head.

If you’re planning to start touring homes and want a clear checklist tailored to your needs, let’s connect. As a Buyer/Seller Specialist with The Pomfrey Team of Cummings & Co. Realtors, I help buyers look past the staging and spot what really matters—so you can make a confident decision. Message me here, call or text 443.903.9293, or email [email protected], and I’ll send you a buyer-friendly home tour checklist you can use at your next open house.

11/27/2025

How do I determine the right asking price when selling?

Pricing a home correctly is one of the most important decisions a seller will make. The right asking price can attract strong interest, generate multiple offers, and help you move on your timeline, while the wrong price can cause your home to sit on the market and ultimately sell for less than it could have. Understanding what truly drives value—and how buyers think—gives you a major advantage when you’re getting ready to list.

What Really Determines the “Right” Price?

The best asking price starts with data, not guesswork. A strong pricing strategy usually includes a comparative market analysis (CMA), where recent sales of similar homes in your area are reviewed and adjusted for differences like square footage, condition, upgrades, beds/baths, and lot size. Location and market conditions also play a huge role—demand in your neighborhood, current inventory, mortgage rates, and how quickly similar homes are selling all help indicate whether you should price at, slightly above, or slightly below recent comparable sales.

Strategy Matters As Much As Value

Once you understand fair market value, the next step is choosing the right strategy. Some sellers choose true market value pricing to attract serious buyers quickly, while others might price slightly under market to generate buzz and multiple offers, or slightly above market in a hot area or for a unique property. The key is to avoid emotional overpricing, which often leads to long days on market, price reductions, and weaker offers in the end.

If you’re thinking about selling and wondering what your home should realistically list for, let’s talk. As a local Buyer/Seller Specialist, Isaiah Jackson with The Pomfrey Team of Cummings & Co. Realtors, I use detailed market data and proven pricing strategies to help sellers hit the market strong and maximize their results. Call or text me at 443.903.9293, reach my office at 443.330.7889, or email [email protected] to schedule a no-obligation pricing and strategy review for your home.

11/24/2025

Determining “How much house can I afford?” is one of the most important questions any potential homebuyer should ask before starting their search. It’s not just about what a bank will approve you for—true affordability means being comfortable with your monthly payments while still achieving your other financial goals. Understanding your personal budget, the 28/36 rule, and the details of your loan options will help you make a smart and confident decision.

What Factors Into Affordability?

Lenders typically use your gross monthly income, your debts, and your potential housing expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA fees) to estimate what you can afford. The widely referenced 28/36 rule suggests spending no more than 28% of your pre-tax income on housing costs, and no more than 36% on all debt obligations combined. Your down payment amount also makes a big difference—putting more money down lowers your monthly payment, may eliminate mortgage insurance, and can give you a competitive edge. Beyond the numbers, you should set a budget considering your lifestyle, future expenses, and savings goals, not just what the lender says you “can” borrow.

How to Start

Begin by reviewing your finances: know your credit score, assess your debt-to-income ratio, and get pre-approved for a mortgage. Use online affordability calculators to test different scenarios, and don’t forget to leave room in your budget for surprise expenses, hobbies, and future financial growth. Most importantly, partner with a knowledgeable agent who can guide you to homes and financing options that fit your unique needs.

If you’re curious about how much house you can actually afford—or just want to strategize for the future—let’s connect! I work closely with trusted local lenders to guide buyers at every stage, whether you’re ready to purchase now or are planning ahead. Call or text me at 443.903.9293, reach my office at 443.330.7889, or email me at [email protected]. Let’s take the next step toward making your homeownership dreams a reality.

11/21/2025

The home-buying process might seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it can be a rewarding and empowering journey. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step breakdown of how buying a home works, from your first ideas to the moment you get your keys. This overview will help first-time buyers and experienced homeowners alike make sense of what to expect at each stage.

How the Home-Buying Process Works
Start by assessing your finances. Check your credit score, review your savings, and determine your budget—not just for the home itself, but for related expenses like insurance, taxes, and maintenance. The next step is mortgage pre-approval, which sets a realistic price range and makes your offer stronger in the eyes of sellers.

With your price range defined, partner with a trustworthy real estate agent who knows your market. Begin searching for homes that fit your needs and preferences. When you find the right one, your agent will guide you in making a competitive offer.​

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll enter the due diligence phase: schedule inspections, order the appraisal, and finalize your mortgage paperwork. Carefully review the disclosures, negotiate repairs as needed, and confirm all paperwork with your lender. On closing day, you’ll sign the final documents, pay your down payment and closing costs, and get the keys to your new home.

Every step brings you closer to your dream of homeownership. If you feel you may be ready—or even if you need help getting there—reach out today. As a licensed agent, I have a trusted team of mortgage lenders who help people like you take confident steps toward becoming a homeowner. Let’s talk about your goals and make a plan to get you home.

Isaiah Jackson
The Pomfrey Team of Cummings & Co. Realtors
M: 443.903.9293
O: 443.330.7889
[email protected]

09/17/2025

https://youtu.be/WyWX0Q_AW48

This episode features a candid conversation with my partner, Jeremiah Blake of PRMI, who invited me to discuss a recent deal we completed together. We share ...

06/27/2025

🏡✨ OPEN HOUSE ALERT! ✨🏡�Step inside your dream home on Trudy Ct in Forest Hill!�Join us this Saturday, June 28th from 12–2 PM to explore this beautiful, family-friendly property—perfect for making new memories.�Tag a friend who needs to see this!
📥 DM me for more information. �📍 299 Trudy Ct, Forest Hill, MD�Your next chapter starts here!

06/26/2025

06/26/2025

Why Homeownership Is Going To Be Worth It

Life can feel a bit unpredictable these days. What’s happening with inflation? The economy? The housing market? But in the middle of all that uncertainty, there’s one thing a lot of people still crave – a place to call their own.

Because when everything else feels up in the air, home can be the thing that grounds you. As the experts at 1000WATT put it:

“Homeownership isn’t primarily financial anymore. . . Across all demographics, emotional and lifestyle factors consistently outrank wealth-building as motivators.”Here’s what owning a home can mean for you, especially right now.

Freedom To Make It YoursWhen you're a homeowner, you don’t need to ask permission to paint a wall, hang a gallery of your favorite art, or redo the floors. You have the freedom to create a space that reflects who you are, all the way from the light fixtures to the paint colors.

Pro Tip: Just be mindful about exterior changes, if you buy a home in a community that has a homeowner’s association (HOA). There may be some approvals you’d need to get for select outdoor changes.

More Privacy, More PeaceOwning your home can give you a sense of peace you didn’t even realize you were missing. It’s a comfortable place where you feel secure and can relax, enjoy your privacy, and unwind after a long day.

Room To Grow Whether it’s starting a family, setting up a home office for your new career, or finally building that home gym in the garage so you can hit your fitness goals, owning gives you the space to live life on your terms.

A Stronger Sense of CommunityWhen you own, you’re not just passing through, you’re putting down roots. That often leads to stronger ties with your community, more connection to your neighborhood, and a deeper feeling of belonging where you live. That’s very different from the temporary nature of renting.

A Feeling of AccomplishmentThere’s something powerful about getting the keys and walking into your own front door for the first time. It’s more than pride, it’s personal satisfaction. A quiet and meaningful sense of “I did this.”

Sure, it’s not always easy for first-time homebuyers right now. The market today requires patience, strategy, and sometimes a little creative problem-solving. But it’s still worth it. As Realtor.com says:

“Buying a home is a major commitment, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”When you get those keys in your hand, when you realize this place is where your life gets to unfold, it clicks. The stress, the waiting, the planning – all of it led you home.

Bottom LineThere are a lot of things out of your control right now. But building a life in a space that’s truly yours? That’s still possible with the right strategy and expert help. Let’s talk about how to make it happen.

What would it mean for you to finally have a place to call your own?