Moving to Maryland... What you NEED TO KNOW FIRST!

Summary

In this video, Adam Taylor provides a candid overview of five major challenges you should consider before moving to Maryland. From high taxes and unpredictable weather to a politically divided state and overcrowded living conditions, Adam gives an honest look at what to expect. He also discusses the high cost of homeownership and traffic issues in densely populated areas. Whether you're thinking about relocating or just curious, this video offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone planning a move to Maryland.

Takeaways

• 😀 Maryland has high taxes, including 6% sales tax, 9% alcohol tax, and steep property taxes, which can affect your budget.
• 😀 The weather in Maryland is highly unpredictable, with all four seasons potentially happening in a single day, including harsh winters and humid summers.
• 😀 Spring brings beautiful weather but also pollen and allergy season, so be prepared for sneezing and pollen-covered cars.
• 😀 Summers can be extremely humid in Maryland, so always have a change of clothes to avoid feeling soaked during simple outdoor tasks.
• 😀 Fall is beautiful but comes with the challenge of pests like Yellow Jackets, especially around orchards and pumpkin patches.
• 😀 Maryland has a politically polarized environment, with urban areas voting Democrat and rural areas leaning Republican, so be mindful of the political climate.
• 😀 The state is densely populated, leading to smaller lot sizes, crowded classrooms, and heavy traffic, especially in urban areas.
• 😀 Traffic and congestion are common, particularly on the I-95 corridor, and tolls are increasingly being implemented to manage the flow.
• 😀 Property values and housing prices are rising, with bidding wars and higher-than-average prices in popular areas like Baltimore.
• 😀 The median home price in the Baltimore metro area is about $375,000, but the true cost is higher due to smaller, expensive homes.
• 😀 Condos are an affordable option but come with high and increasing condo fees, so be sure to factor that into your budget when considering a move.

Q & A

What are the five main drawbacks of living in Maryland discussed in the video?

The five main drawbacks mentioned are high taxes, unpredictable weather, political climate, dense population, and expensive housing.

How high are the taxes in Maryland, and what types of taxes should residents expect?

Maryland has a 6% sales tax on most items, a 9% alcohol tax, high property taxes, and various tolls. Residents should budget for higher living expenses due to these taxes.

Why is Maryland's weather considered unpredictable?

Maryland's weather is considered unpredictable because residents can experience three seasons in one day. It includes cold winters with snow, hot and humid summers, and spring and fall, which can have rapid temperature changes.

What challenges do people with allergies face in Maryland's spring season?

In the spring, people with allergies will face frequent sneezing and the challenge of dealing with pollen covering their cars.

What is a common issue during Maryland's hot summer months?

The hot summer months are marked by high humidity, which can cause discomfort and require people to keep a change of clothes in their cars to avoid arriving at meetings in a sweaty condition.

What political climate should potential residents of Maryland be aware of?

Maryland is predominantly a blue state, with most urban areas voting for the Democratic candidate. Those with conservative views may find it challenging, especially in the Baltimore-DC corridor, and may prefer to look at more rural areas for like-minded communities.

How does Maryland's population density impact daily life?

The high population density in Maryland means smaller homes with less space between neighbors, crowded classrooms, heavy traffic, and longer waits at stores. It can also lead to tolls on highways to help alleviate traffic.

What are the effects of Maryland's population density on housing?

Due to the dense population, new homes are built on smaller lots, and builders often place houses very close to each other. Housing prices are higher, and there is less available space for large properties.

How does Maryland's housing market impact potential buyers?

The housing market in Maryland, especially in the Baltimore metro area, is expensive. The median sales price is around $375,000, but real prices are often higher due to lower-cost homes bringing down the overall median. Bidding wars and rising property taxes are also common.

Why is it important for potential Maryland residents to consider the high cost of housing?

Potential residents should consider the high cost of housing because it leads to not only higher home prices but also increased property taxes. These factors can strain a household's budget, and it’s essential to be prepared for the financial commitment.