What began as a desire to be present for my family has grown into a calling to help others find their place to call home in Maryland.

 

My roots in Carroll County run deep—I’m a third-generation townie who grew up here, and always found my way back. No matter how far I tried to go, life seemed to point me back to Maryland. Looking back, I believe that was part of God’s plan. There was something here for me to do, and today I see it clearly: helping people sell and buy their home in a community I love.

 

After high school, I applied to the Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut. I didn’t get in, and while it stung at the time, it was another way God redirected me. Instead, I went to McDaniel College, studied business administration, and married my high school sweetheart, Sandra. Staying here gave our relationship the chance to flourish.

 

After college, I began a career as an accountant. It was a good job—steady, reliable, and something I was grateful for—but I also felt there was more. The schedule didn’t allow me the flexibility to be the kind of father I wanted to be. When Sandra and I welcomed our four children, I wanted to drive them to school, coach their sports teams, and be present for the small, everyday moments.

 

That’s the thing about becoming a parent in your early 20s: you grow up quickly. You have to make careful decisions with your family’s future in mind. I knew I wanted a job where I could be the father I wanted to be and serve my community more directly, but at the time, I didn’t know what that looked like.

 

The answer came from my brother, who was a custom home builder. He suggested real estate, and the idea clicked immediately. I already had deep roots here—my family had been part of this community for generations—and I loved the idea of using that connection to help others. So, in 2008, I got my real estate license, put my head down, and got to work.

 

This career turned out to be exactly what I was looking for. It gave me the freedom to coach lacrosse, take Blake, Anna, Carter, and Mae to school, and still build a business I’m proud of. Sandra, who’s a doctor, inspired me with her work ethic. Watching her dedication fueled my own consistency and resilience. Little by little, my business flourished, and 17 years later I still love what I do.

 

Now my kids are mostly grown—three are in their twenties, and Mae is 12—and it’s been such a blessing to watch them grow. I’m proud to have helped put them through college. Church and faith remain at the center of my life. In the past we have volunteered by hosting gatherings for young people to talk about God, organizing summer camps, and supporting Westminster High School—the school that gave me so much. 

 

When I’m not working or volunteering, you’ll probably find me lifting weights, golfing, kayaking, or watching sports. And with two granddaughters living in Nashville, Sandra and I travel there often to soak up time with them.

 

Real estate wasn’t in my original plan, but it became the perfect way to combine my love for family, community, and service. Every time I hand someone the keys to their new home, I’m reminded of why I stayed—and why I’ll always be proud to call this place home.

 

I take my fiduciary duty seriously and view guiding clients through buying or selling a home as a major responsibility. My focus is on protecting them from being taken advantage of by providing honest, sound advice at every stage. Pricing a home correctly is a priority for me, so I conduct thorough market analyses—comparing properties, studying the competition, and determining fair, strategic prices. As a hands-on, hardworking REALTOR®, I actively help prepare houses for sale to ensure they show at their best.

 

I pride myself on being available, responsive, and transparent, always putting my clients’ best interests first. My approach combines critical thinking, clear communication, and strategic planning to deliver successful outcomes. As a full time agent who knows the area inside and out—including its neighborhoods, schools, and community nuances—I help clients make confident decisions about where to live and how to sell to get top dollar. Backed by the renowned worldwide brand, RE/MAX Advantage Realty, I’m a full-time professional who is deeply committed to service and passionate about protecting my clients’ interests, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.

 

Sincerely,

 

Mark Ruby

REALTOR®

Call/Text (410) 259-0619

Office (410) 549-3500

RubyRealtor@gmail.com

MarkRuby.com