Next Step is thrilled to be approaching the grand opening of Kilpatrick Woods, a community in Hagerstown, MD, that will feature 239 Next Step homes once completed. The 2 – 4 bedroom homes start in the $200s and will have ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances, porches, built-in entertainment centers and more. Plus, homebuyers have the opportunity to pick the finishing touches – like cabinet colors – for their home. Stepping outside, community amenities include open spaces, walking trails, a clubhouse, and a playground.
We’re excited to welcome the first homeowners to the community, and we’re grateful to have a fantastic team to help make that happen. Our Realtor® partners will play a significant role in shaping the success of this community. They’ve been busy showing the community and homes, promoting the community within their networks, and providing invaluable buyer insights to the community development team.
Allison Zerr
Allison, a lifelong Maryland resident, has been rooted in Frederick County since 2003, residing in the northeastern area of Johnsville. Specializing as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), her passion is serving the unique needs of the “Sandwich Generation,” drawing from her personal experiences to offer comprehensive support beyond traditional real estate services.
Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, Allison has pursued extensive education in real estate, including obtaining her Graduate Real Estate Institute (GRI) certification—a rigorous four-part series that sets her apart in her field. She also has a Master’s Certificate in Thanatology from Hood College, focusing on the study of death, dying, and bereavement. Her unique expertise not only enriches her understanding of cultural norms but also inspired her to establish the Frederick Death Cafe, fostering open discussions in the community.
Community-minded and actively involved, Allison serves on the Frederick Health Hospice Board of Directors, volunteers directly with patients, and contributes to various organizations, including the St. John Regional Catholic School board, Celebrate Frederick, and more. Her multifaceted background and dedication to her clients and community make her an invaluable asset to both the real estate industry and the Frederick County community.
Kate Dutton
With seven years of experience in the mortgage industry, Kate is a dedicated real estate professional, bringing a unique perspective to the field. A resident of Mount Airy, Maryland, she has witnessed the growth and transformation of this charming town firsthand. From its tight-knit community to its proximity to bustling cities like Frederick and Baltimore, Mount Airy offers a lifestyle that’s both rooted in tradition and open to exciting possibilities.
The transition from the mortgage sector to real estate was not just a career shift for Kate; it was a natural progression fueled by a genuine passion for helping families find their perfect homes. What sets her apart is the ability to seamlessly integrate her mortgage expertise into the real estate process. This means she can guide buyers through programs like the Maryland Mortgage Program, FHA, and USDA loans, providing them with a clear path to homeownership.
Beyond the numbers and contracts, Kate is deeply committed to understanding each client’s unique story and aspirations. Every client is different, and she takes pride in tailoring her approach to suit their specific needs. Whether they’re seeking a cozy family home or an investment property, Kate is dedicated to finding the perfect match.
Importance of the Local Sales Team
Local Expertise: Our Realtor partners possess an in-depth understanding of the greater Hagerstown area, including market trends, neighborhood amenities, and school districts. This local expertise allows them to provide valuable insights and guidance to the development team and homebuyers throughout the purchasing process.
Local Network: Our Realtor partners have developed extensive networks in the Hagerstown area that enable them to provide valuable recommendations to homebuyers. These recommendations include a variety of professionals who can assist with the purchasing process and ensure a smooth transaction. For instance, our partners can connect homebuyers with experienced appraisers, home inspectors, reputable lenders, and more.
We’re incredibly grateful to have Allison and Kate as advocates for the Kilpatrick Woods community! Next Step, alongside our project partners, is working hard to make affordable homeownership more achievable in Hagerstown, MD.
Those interested in homeownership in Kilpatrick Woods can schedule a buyer consultation or home tour with Allison and Kate here. If you’d like to learn more about this project, visit nextstepus.org/kilpatrickwoods.