What are current mortgage rates?

Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) averages as of February 12, 2026: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage 6.09%, 15-year fixed-rate mortgage 5.44%. Data source: Freddie Mac PMMS Official Archive (freddiemac.com/pmms).

When is the Bowie mayoral election?

The Bowie mayoral special election is on April 7, 2026. The City of Bowie set this date to fill the mayoral vacancy after Mayor Timothy J. Adams was appointed to the Prince George's County Council in February 2026.

Who is running for Bowie mayor?

As of February 2026, three sitting Bowie City Council members have filed as candidates: Dennis Brady, Michael Estève, and Dufour Woolfrey. Additional candidates may file before the March 6, 2026 deadline. Check the City of Bowie website for the official candidate list.

What is the filing deadline for the Bowie mayor race?

The candidate filing deadline for the Bowie mayoral special election is March 6, 2026. All candidates must file with the City of Bowie by that date to appear on the April 7, 2026 ballot.

How do I run for mayor of Bowie?

You must meet eligibility requirements under the City of Bowie Charter (including residency and voter registration in Bowie) and file as a candidate with the City by March 6, 2026. For eligibility rules, filing forms, and where to file, visit the City of Bowie's official website or contact the City Clerk.

Why is there a special election for Bowie mayor?

Mayor Timothy J. Adams was appointed to the Prince George's County Council District 4 seat on February 2, 2026. That created a mayoral vacancy. The City of Bowie Charter requires a special election to fill the office, which the City set for April 7, 2026.

What happens to the Council seats if a councilmember wins mayor?

If a sitting councilmember wins the April 7, 2026 mayoral election, their Council seat becomes vacant. The City of Bowie Charter and Council procedures govern how that vacancy is filled (e.g., appointment or special election). The outcome will affect council composition and committee assignments.

Who are the Bowie mayor candidates in 2026?

The declared candidates in the Bowie mayoral special election (as of February 2026) are three sitting City Council members: Dennis Brady, Michael Estève, and Dufour Woolfrey. More candidates may file before the March 6, 2026 deadline. The race is a three-way contest among current Council members—an unusual setup for Bowie.

Where do I vote in the Bowie mayoral election?

Voting locations and early voting options for the April 7, 2026 Bowie mayoral special election are set by the City of Bowie and the Prince George's County Board of Elections. Check the City of Bowie website or the County Board of Elections for your polling place and hours.

Are there property tax breaks for Seniors?

Senior Credit Alert: While the Senior Tax Credit (CB-007-2024) is law, implementation is currently paused until late 2026 for administrative revisions (County Council). We help verify your long-term eligibility during the listing audit.

What are the closing costs for sellers in Prince George's County?

Sellers should budget approximately 6% to 8% of the sale price. The tax breakdown table above shows the full combined rate ($1.7080 per $100 of assessed value) for Bowie; transfer and recordation taxes are in addition. If your buyer is a First-Time Maryland Homebuyer, see the HB0790 update in Lifestyle → Engagement for FY2027 timing—it can affect who pays what at settlement.

Does the Homestead Tax Credit transfer to the new owner?

For current owners in Prince George's County, the Homestead Tax Credit limits assessment increases to a 3% cap each year, which helps mitigate payment shock as values rise. The credit is non-transferable: when the property is sold, the tax bill resets to full current market value for the new buyer. We actively disclose this to prevent payment shock from derailing the transaction.

Does the City of Bowie offer down payment assistance?

Yes. The City of Bowie Home Buyer Assistance Program offers grants to eligible workforce buyers. This can be layered with the state's MMP (Maryland Mortgage Program). Note: City inspections are stricter for grant recipients.

What is the Bowie / PG County property tax rate?

The combined rate for Bowie is $1.7080 per $100 of assessed value: City $0.40, County $0.8760, State $0.1120, M-NCPPC $0.2940, WSTC $0.0260. The City of Bowie has maintained a stable municipal rate of $0.4000 for over 16 consecutive years. The combined total reflects the County's credit to City residents.

Is there a first-time homebuyer transfer tax break in Maryland?

Legislative Alert (Feb 2026): HB0790 was introduced and proposes a full exemption (0.00% rate) for qualifying first-time buyers, eliminating the current 0.25% reduced rate. Hearing scheduled for Feb 17. Check the legislature for current status and FY2027 timing.

Who pays transfer and recordation taxes in Maryland?

In Maryland, transfer and recordation taxes are typically split 50/50 between buyer and seller, though this is negotiable. The seller usually pays the brokerage commission and any outstanding mortgage payoff. We provide a detailed breakdown before you accept any offer.

Where can I check my Homestead credit status?

You can look up your property and Homestead application status through the Maryland SDAT Real Property search. The County also has information on eligibility and the 3% assessment cap.

What state programs help first-time buyers in Bowie?

The Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) offers competitive rates and down payment assistance for eligible buyers. It can be layered with the City of Bowie Home Buyer Assistance Program for workforce buyers. We can point you to current program details and eligibility.

Is there rent control in Prince George's County?

Yes. The 5.7% rent cap (FY2026) applies to regulated units. Crucial Distinction: Landlords owning 5 or fewer units are exempt ONLY if titled as a Natural Person. LLCs are subject to stabilization regardless of unit count. Update (Feb 2026): 'Rent Banking' is now active, allowing landlords to bank unused rent increases for future years upon DPIE approval.

What are the commuting options from Bowie to D.C.?

The '30-minute drive' is a variable. Insider Reality: Departing Fairwood/Woodmore by 6:45 AM yields a reliable 35-minute drive to Capitol Hill. Leaving after 7:30 AM pushes this to 55+ minutes. Route 50 is the lifeline; the upgraded Bowie State MARC is the stress-free alternative. Metro access is available via New Carrollton.

When will the new Fairwood Elementary School open?

Fairwood Elementary Modernization is under construction with opening scheduled for Summer 2027. The new 85,000 sq ft Fairwood Elementary building opens on the Woodmore site; the current Woodmore facility will relocate (e.g. swing space), and boundaries for Woodmore and Pointer Ridge will be rebalanced. Utilization Rebalancing (Boundary Shifts) is the key impact for 2026; expect zone adjustments for Woodmore / Pointer Ridge to fill the new capacity.

What is South Lake Marketplace in Bowie?

South Lake is a 381-acre mixed-use hub anchoring South Bowie. Phase 1 is 90% complete. Key commercial delivery includes Giant Food, Sheetz, Chase Bank, Panera Bread, McDonald's, Panda Express, Mi Lindo Cancun Grill, and destination dining anchors Ma Pearl's Louisiana Kitchen and Quinn Cook's 4th Quarter Sports Bar.

What is Melford Town Center in Bowie?

Melford Town Center is a 466-acre mixed-use development at the Rt 50/301 interchange. Anchored by St. John Properties Class-A office/flex space. Residential growth is driven by Mid-Atlantic Builders luxury townhomes. Dunkin Donuts is now open as the anchor coffee shop. High tenant quality due to proximity to Bowie State and Federal agencies.

What is Mill Branch Crossing in Bowie?

Mill Branch Crossing is at Rt 301 and Mill Branch Rd. Phase 1 retail (Dash In/Splash In) is complete. Future phases include 190 townhomes and 400+ apartments plus hotel. It is the primary commercial anchor for the southern 20716 corridor.

My home has a private well and septic. What inspections are needed?

Lenders require a septic inspection. Maryland's BAT (Best Available Technology) regulations mean failing systems can be costly ($20k+). A water quality test is also standard. We can help navigate grants through the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund if upgrades are needed.

How do I sell an inherited (Probate) property?

You must be appointed Personal Representative by the Register of Wills. We specialize in guiding estates through clean-outs, valuations, and the sale process, ensuring heirs maximize the 'step-up' in tax basis.

What are the top recreation amenities in Bowie?

Bowie invests heavily in lifestyle. Allen Pond Park (Ice Arena & Amphitheater) is Bowie's signature park. Cyclists enjoy the WB&A Trail, and golfers have access to Bowie Golf Club. We also host the AA-Minor League Baysox stadium nearby.

Can I tour a house listed as 'Coming Soon' in Bowie?

Under Bright MLS 2026 rules, 'Coming Soon' listings on public sites (Zillow/Redfin) strictly prohibit all tours. However, Compass Coming Soon and Private Exclusives allow for private tours while keeping the home off the public 'Days on Market' clock.

What is the Bowie Transfer Tax rate for 2026?

The combined property tax rate for FY2026 is $1.7080 per $100 of assessed value, which includes City, County, State, and regional components. Note that municipal differentials apply to avoid double-taxation for city services.

What is the difference between a Private Exclusive and public listing?

A Private Exclusive is shared only within the Compass network. It allows for private tours and price testing without appearing on public search portals, protecting your home's privacy and 'New' status.

How does Compass Concierge help Bowie sellers?

Compass Concierge fronts the cost of home improvements like painting or flooring with zero interest and no upfront fees, helping maximize equity cash-out at settlement.

Is the paperwork different for homes within Bowie City limits?

Yes. The City of Bowie has specific municipal addenda and tax nuances that require precise auditing of settlement sheets to ensure local regulations are followed correctly.

Are young professionals leaving Maryland because of housing costs?

According to a January 2026 survey reported by The BayNet (Maryland REALTORS), 49% of young professionals are considering leaving the state due to housing affordability, and 90% of voters say the cost of buying a home in their region is too high. Source: https://thebaynet.com/marylands-housing-affordability-crisis-is-driving-residents-out-of-state/

Bowie Real Estate Insights

Name: Bowie Special Election for Mayor
Start: 2026-04-07
Location: City of Bowie

Explore Bowie, MD neighborhoods, zoned schools, taxes, parks, and market insights. Your guide to buying and selling in Prince George's County—from Levitt-era communities to new construction.

Skip to Neighborhoods

Bowie Real Estate Insights

Data as of February 8, 2026

Home

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

Nearby (lottery)

Heather Hills TAG Center (Lottery Admission Only)

Immediately adjacent to Town Center and Allen Pond Park.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Mon

$520,000

Yorktown

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

Original Levitt section known for stability and mature landscaping.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Fri

$520,000

Meadowbrook

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

One of the most centrally located sections, offering high walkability to the Bowie Town Center and Allen Pond Park.

Trash Tue & FriRecycle Thu

$511,000

Idlewild

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

A foundational section sought for classic Cape Cod and Rancher models.

Trash Tue & FriRecycle Fri

$510,000

Pointer Ridge

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

A sprawling South Bowie staple known for expansive lawns, park-centric lifestyles, and exceptional rental demand.

$452,000

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

A key North Bowie community offering 1980s construction with larger interiors than the original 1960s sections.

$595,000

Essington & Ensleigh

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

A high-density townhome corridor popular with commuters due to its immediate access to Route 50.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Mon

$460,000

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

Colossal modern estates on lush, wooded acreage. Known for architectural grandeur and maximum privacy.

$1,100,000

Fairwood

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Fairwood Elementary opens 2027-2028; verify current assignment by address.

Middle:

Large master-planned community on a former 1,000-acre turf farm.

$825,000

Saddlebrook West

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

North Bowie community with an active community center.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Thu

$799,000

Enfield Chase

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

An accessible and modern townhome community centrally located near the Bowie Town Center and commercial hubs.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Mon

$410,000

Patuxent Overlook

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

The definition of exclusion; ultra-private, high-acreage estates bordering the scenic Patuxent River corridor.

Trash Mon & ThuRecycle Mon

$975,000

Zoned schools

Elementary:

Middle:

Bowie's newest southern gateway with active retail growth.

$455,000

Station 19 (Huntington/Old Bowie)13008 9th St, Bowie, MD 20715301-262-0501
Station 39 (Belair)15454 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715301-262-0502
Station 43 (Pointer Ridge/Mitchellville)16408 Pointer Ridge Dr, Bowie, MD 20716301-249-6525
Station 16Bowie, MD301-809-0122

Police Station15901 Fred Robinson Way, Bowie, MD 20716Non-emergency 240-544-5700

Public Works15901 Fred Robinson Way, Bowie, MD 20716301-809-2344

Animal Control15901 Fred Robinson Way, Bowie, MD 20716301-809-3002

Lifestyle

Schools, engagement, development, commuting, interesting places.

Anchor projects

90%

South Lake (The Lifestyle Hub)

381-acre mixed-use hub, South Bowie · 90% leased

Active

Melford Town Center (The Tech Hub)

466-acre walkable town center at Rt 50/301

Phase 1

Mill Branch Crossing (The Retail Gateway)

Rt 301 & Mill Branch Rd · Phase 1 live

Strategic projects & infrastructure

Acquisition & Planning

Bowie Town Center

$50M acquisition · 293K sq ft, 86% leased · 6–10 story mixed-use redevelopment

Project details

RFP / Selection

MARC Campus Village

93-acre mixed-use RFP · Award expected May 2026

Project details

Preservation

Glenn Dale Hospital

140+ acres parkland & senior housing · adaptive reuse

Project details

Infrastructure

Water System Recapitalization

City pipe recapitalization · 65% complete

Replacing 50+ year cast iron with ductile iron for water quality and fire flow. Multi-year capital project.

Done:Kenilworth (Dec 2024), Belair Greens, Bowie Forest

Active:Foxhill, Long Ridge, Meadowbrook (Planning)

View Service Map

Official links

Bowie Town Center (Sears)Bowie State MARC South Lake Mill Branch Melford Town Center PGAtlas PGC Pipeline

Next up: Commuting—MARC, New Carrollton, and Route 50.

Find your school by address

The county's official tool shows which schools serve any address—enter your street there to see your assigned schools.

Open PGCPS School Finder

Choose a neighborhood

Pick a neighborhood to see its zoned elementary and middle schools.

Official boundaries and lottery info: PGCPS School Boundaries or School Finder. Fairwood Elementary opens 2027; some zones will be rebalanced.

School assignments and ratings as of 2026-2027 school year.

Calendar & deadlines

Pathways

The Base School Path

Fairwood Elementary opens Summer 2027 (PGCPS). The new facility will replace Woodmore and trigger enrollment rebalancing for Woodmore and Pointer Ridge zones. Boundary changes can stabilize class sizes—worth factoring into timing.

We show both GreatSchools and Maryland state (MSDE) ratings below so you can compare.

We show GreatSchools and Maryland state MSDE ratings; explains why.

Browse schools

Bowie-area schools. Tap a row for details and both rating systems.

Truth vs. Algorithm

Did you know?

Some algorithms rate Whitehall Elementary a 4/10. State data shows high proficiency. Don't let the algorithm hide the 4-star performance—verify with PGCPS and state report cards before you rule a neighborhood out.

Next up: Engagement—legislative and policy alerts.

Bowie Mayoral Race — April 7, 2026

Candidates, key dates, and how to stay informed.

SPECIAL ELECTION ALERT: April 7, 2026

Bowie Mayoral Vacancy

Mayor Adams has moved to County Council. A Special Election for City Mayor will be held April 7.

Candidate Filing: Feb 17 – March 6.

Maryland State Primary follows on June 23, 2026.

Election Watch — Candidates, dates & FAQ

Bowie Mayoral Race: April 7 Special Election

Bowie will hold a special election for Mayor on April 7, 2026. The candidate filing deadline is March 6, 2026. Three sitting City Council members have filed: Dennis Brady, Michael Estève, and Dufour Woolfrey. That sets up a three-way mayoral race in which every contender currently holds a Council seat—a rare dynamic for the city. The outcome will drive council vacancies, new alliances, and a reshuffling of leadership in one of Prince George's County's most watched suburbs. Additional candidates may file before March 6.

Key dates

March 6, 2026 — Candidate filing deadline. Last day to file as a candidate for the Bowie mayoral special election.Add to calendar
April 7, 2026 — Election day. Special election for Mayor of the City of Bowie.Add to calendar

Bowie mayor candidates 2026

More may file before March 6. Click a card for bio.

Candidates must file with the City of Bowie by March 6, 2026. Eligibility and filing procedures are set by the City Charter and the Board of Elections.

Bowie mayoral election FAQ

Guide last updated: February 2026.

Next up: Commuting—MARC, Metro, and Route 50.

Rates & taxes

30-Yr Fixed

6.09%

15-Yr Fixed

5.44%

90-Day Institutional Trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS Official Archive

Market context: 30-year FRM at 6.09% (PMMS, February 12, 2026). Bowie median price $514,000, median days on market 15 (Feb 2025 – Feb 2026, 1,248 closed sales); recent (Nov–Jan) median ~28 days. For current inventory see Compass.

Next up: Market Intelligence—stats, narrative, and survey.

Assessment appeal deadline

March 30, 2026

Time left to file your appeal

Days

Hours

Min

Sec

Last day to appeal your assessment with SDAT.

Estimate your annual bill

City of Bowie$0.00

Combined PG County / State / Other$0.00

Total Annual Bill$0.00

Rates: $0.4000 (Bowie) + $1.3080 (County/State/Other) = $1.7080 per $100.

Double Tax Myth: Bowie vs Standard PG County

Bowie (with differential)$0/yr

Standard PG County (unincorporated)$0/yr

Similar totals—Bowie's differential means you don't pay double.

The combined County + Bowie rate is $1.7080 per $100 of assessed value—unchanged from last year. Bowie's share has stayed at $0.40 for over 16 years. The combined rate is lower for City residents because Bowie provides its own services; the County gives a credit so you're not double-taxed.

Bills went up because assessed values went up—about 12.7% on average (SDAT 2026, Group 2). The rate didn't change; higher value means a higher bill.

If you already have the Homestead Tax Credit, your bill is capped—it can only go up 3% per year (County) or 10% (State), whichever applies. So even when valuations jump, your increase is limited. If you're buying, you won't get that cap until you apply for Homestead after you close; it's worth using a tax calculator so you know what to expect.

A couple of bills are worth tracking if you're buying or contesting value—see Bills to watch below.

Rates and assessment context as of February 2026.

Tax and assessment data from Maryland SDAT and Prince George's County; school info from PGCPS; mortgage rates from Freddie Mac. We update this data periodically.

Bills to watch

HB0790 — First-Time Buyer Transfer Tax Exemption
Introduced Feb 4. Proposes 0.00% transfer tax rate for qualifying first-time buyers in FY2027, replacing the current 0.25% reduced rate.
Bill details at MGALEG
HB 826 — Property Tax Assessment Moratorium
Introduced Feb 4. Proposes a total moratorium on property tax assessment increases through 2029.
Bill details at MGALEG

Next up: Financial FAQ—closing costs, Homestead, and down payment assistance.

Market Analysis

Total Homes Sold

911

Median Sold Price

$500,000

Median Days on Market

15Days

The Bowie market remains highly active. With over 900 transactions in the last year and a median time-to-contract of about two weeks (15 days), buyer demand is meeting seller pricing effectively. Premium markets like 20720 continue to see strong valuations ($610k median), while 20715 remains the hub of activity.

Feb 2025 – Feb 2026 · As of February 8, 2026

Survey update

Nearly half (49%) of Maryland's young professionals say they are considering leaving the state due to housing affordability; nine in ten voters (90%) say the cost of buying a home is too high.

Maryland REALTORS, via The BayNet

Feb 15, 2026

Spring 2026 Market Strategy

Median Price

$500k

Speed

15 Days

Supply

1.2 Mo

Last updated: February 8, 2026

Zip	Median Price	DOM	Inventory Gauge
20715	$487k	15 days	38
20716	$463k	27 days	64
20720	$610k	31 days	45
20721	$660k	25 days	38

20715: down — Market stabilizing; DOM reflects a more balanced pace for core Bowie.
20716: down — Inventory at healthy levels; good time to verify facts and schedule inspections.
20720: up — North Bowie luxury segment shows steady appreciation; considerations for long-term value.
20721: up — Limited supply in the high-end segment; we recommend a thorough review and professional inspections.

Next up: Quarterly Breakdown—quarter-by-quarter sales, price, and DOM.

Next up: Calculators—tax calculator and fiscal context.

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