prince william county: Hanna's Impact - 09/07/08 10:26 AM
Prince William County was drenched with the rains of Tropical Storm Hanna yesterday. It was the gusting winds that really made an impact on my community of Braemar.
Driving through after the storm passed, I was surprised to see my preferred route out of the neighborhood (Tartan Hills Parkway) was partially … (3 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Townhouse Report: July- August 2008 - 09/06/08 02:39 PM
Two more months of resales in Braemar's townhouse inventory has given us the opportunity to examine average sales price for the months of July and August. Townhouse sales in this Braemar Tonwhouse Report, as always, are divided into two categories: No Garage and Garage. Which category your townhouse falls into should be … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Property Value Report: Courtyard Series (July-August 2008) - 09/01/08 12:05 PM
The Braemar Property Value Report for the Courtyard homes built by Brookfield is in! The news isn't that bad.
In the last two months, only one courtyard home has sold. These courtyard homes are near zero lot line homes...five to a single pipe steam or driveway. They include the Clarendon, Ballston … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Dunbarton in Fall - 08/29/08 07:00 PM
I took a ride through Dunbarton in Bristow, VA the other day. A nice attaction caught my eye. In addition to their putting green,in front of their lovely clubhouse, is a fountain.
As with everything in Dunbarton, it is nothing extravagant, but tasteful and just perfect for the surroundings. It has been there, … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Outgrowing your Condo or Townhouse? - 08/26/08 06:18 PM
Outgrowing your condo or townhouse? Looking for something with more room? There is good news on the horizon. Given the current market conditions, your next home is more affordable now than it may ever be.
Waiting for your current home to regain the equity you had a few years ago, may … (8 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Attention Braemar Dog & Animal Lovers! - 08/17/08 12:40 PM
The Braemar Community Pools will only be open through September 1st. However, the fun doesn't stop then.
On September 7th, Braemar is opening the Iona Sound pool for a first-time ever event---Doggie Paddle! The purpose is to raise money to support the Prince William SPCA. Dogs only will be allowed in the pool. The entrance fee … (4 comments)
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prince william county: Manassas, VA: The Prince William County Fair is Happening Now - 08/09/08 12:33 PM
The 59th Annual Prince William County Fair started yesterday, August 8th. As usual, it's being held at the Fair Grounds...located at 10624 Dumfries Road in Manassas. Some attactions this weekend are two shows, 5pm, both Saturday and Sunday by the Bull Run Cloggers.
Sunday, August 10th, there is a full day of … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Best Value in Braemar!! Back on the Market!! - 08/08/08 06:10 PM
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prince william county: Manassas, VA: $49,000 Price Reduction on this Luxury End Unit Townhouse - 08/08/08 09:43 AM
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prince william county: In the Year 2014----A Look into Transportation Solutions Coming to Gainesville, VA - 08/04/08 05:07 PM
It may seem a long way off, but several transportation improvements will be underway by 2011 to eliminate some of the common problems that Gainesville, Bristow and Haymarket residents have been facing. Good things come to those who wait. So what are we waiting for?
Linton Hall Road will be elevated … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Coming Soon to Gainesville, VA---Chili's!!!! - 08/04/08 05:02 PM
Gainesville, VA is growing so fast. It's hard to imagine that feeling I had, when I first moved here from Fairfax, VA, that I had moved into the boonies.
So many shops and restaurants are springing up all around. Linens and Things, Bed Bath & Beyond, Sports Authority, Pei Wei, Michael's. And … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Another Satisfied Buyer!! - 07/25/08 05:05 PM
Relocating to the Washington, DC Metro Area from the Southwestern United States can be culture shock....especially when it comes to price! My most recent homebuyers started off in a rental, then chose to buy once familiar with the area.
This Canterbury Model by Brookfield, in the community of Braeamr, was the house they … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Know Your Pet's Woobie - 07/20/08 11:22 AM
Mr. Mom is a movie that stays with you. Remember Kenny and his woobie? That beat up old blanket he carried around?
Every one needs a woobie. Every one of our five cats have their own distinct woobies. That one toy, bed, or blanket that they uniquely love. It's their "happy place". The … (9 comments)
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prince william county: An Open Letter to Distressed Home Owners - 07/19/08 04:24 PM
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Distessed Home Owner:
You are no doubt facing a financial crisis. Your home is being foreclosed and you are angry.
In your anger, don't make the situation worse. When you bought your brand new home in Prince William County, it came with a stove, refrigerator and most likely, … (16 comments)
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prince william county: A Year Round Favorite - 07/19/08 04:09 PM
For me, Ben & Jerry's ice cream has always been a treat, but not my go to ice cream. I think I am changing my mind.
The Ben & Jerry's flavors that divide my attention are Phish Food and Dublin Mudslide. It truly depends on my mood, but I do get … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Curb Appeal: Give Your Home an Edge - 07/19/08 03:46 PM
Curb appeal is all about first impressions. There are many details that you can attend to in an effort to make that positive first impression. Edging is something that requires sweat equity. And in the Northern Virginia summer heat, you may want to wait until an hour before dusk to get … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Another Satisfied First Time Home Buyer - 07/17/08 02:25 PM
I love helping first time home buyers become first time home OWNERS. There is such a feeling of satisfaction helping someone through the process of buying their very first home. It's the start of their financial future.
Yesterday I had the pleasure of handing the keys to my buyer client, a … (12 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar's Clareybrook Park - 07/16/08 10:24 AM
Welcome to Braemar's Clareybrook Park, located just off the intersection of Rob Roy Way and Sudley Manor Drive. Most well-known as " the park next to the pool," this area of Braemar was carved out for recreation for kids of all ages, and adults. For the purpose of this article, we won't … (6 comments)
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prince william county: FDIC's Reassurance after Demise of Indymac Bank - 07/14/08 03:24 PM
I was lucky enough to catch an exclusive interview that Rick Sanchez of CNN conducted with a muckety-muck with the FDIC regarding this Indymac meltdown. It was 1am, so I was not exactly taking notes on who was speaking, but what this guy said really caught my attention.
Evidently, there are 90 … (8 comments)
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prince william county: My First Cookout in Four Years! - 07/13/08 07:23 PM
Some of you may recall my whining about the Fourth of July, and how I really wished my husband and I had a deck and a grill. If you want to read the first post about this, here you go. The summary is this: We're not accumulating any more debt and … (16 comments)
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prince william county: Haymarket, VA: Mark your Calendars for this Open House! - 07/12/08 01:20 PM
The very first condo building (The Palmer) in the Active Adult Community of Regency has its very first resale of the 3 bedroom Woodhall model. And let me tell you, it's got to be seen to be believed. This is an extraordinary unit.
The owners went beyond the standard of excellence that … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Townhouse Report: May-June 2008 - 07/11/08 02:44 PM
Time for another Braemar Townhouse Report. A look back at the sales of townhouses in Braemar, this time for May & June 2008. We'll compare the average statistics (sale price, seller ssubsidy and days on the market) to the same stats in the prior report of March & April 2008 and to May & June 2007.
Let's … (4 comments)
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prince william county: Impractical Shelving - 07/11/08 10:23 AM
This shelf is at approximately 10' 6", given that the tallest height of this ceiling is 11'. I can't imagine that someone actually took the planning, time and effort to hang it. It's been a source of much wonder with my buyer and myself whenever we are in his, soon-to-be townhouse. … (9 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Property Value Report: Heritage Series (May 1-June 30, 2008) - 07/06/08 12:23 PM
The Braemar Property Value Report for the Heritage Series homes, built by Brookfield, is compiled and ready to share! Resales, and one new home sale, were averaged over the months of May & June, and will now be compared with the prior months report of March & April, and the May … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Property Value Report: Courtyard Series (May-June 2008) - 07/05/08 05:01 PM
The Braemar Property Value Report for the Courtyard Series homes of Braemar has just been completed for May & June 2008. If you live in a home accessed by a driveway shared with four other homes, you probably live in a Courtyard Series home. The floor plans include the Ballston, Clarendon … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Copperhead Snakes Spotted In Braemar - 07/05/08 11:38 AM
I have lived in Braemar since December 2004. In that time, I have heard two reports of neighbors seeing Copperhead snakes....and that was in 2005.
Since then, things have been rather quiet with regards to snakes in our neighborhood news. However, in the last issue of the community newsletter The Bagpiper, there is a … (4 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Adult Swim in Braemar.....AHHHHHH! - 07/02/08 09:09 PM
Tonight was my second time enjoying our community pool's adult swim. They start at 8pm and run until 10pm on Wednesday nighs. The water is warm from the sun heating it up all day, and dusk is a quiet time of day in the neighborhood.
I snapped this shot before the … (11 comments)
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prince william county: Bad Way to Start the Week - 06/29/08 06:19 PM
I woke up this morning not expecting to do much in the way of work. I had nothing scheduled and definitely planned to take some much needed "me" time.
I found a message from someone on my voice mail. You can always tell a fellow Realtor, even when they don't leave … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Kitty-Cat Shot of the Week - 06/28/08 07:30 PM
Our unsuspecting white kitty Phoebe, lets her attention drift from the kitty condo castle she is coveting. Inside, an older and wiser Minx waits for her opportunity to pounce on her new little sister.
We got Phoebe, and two of her siblings, seven months ago when she was a six month old kitten. Minx, one of … (18 comments)
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prince william county: Small Maintenance Issues Make BIG Impressions - 06/28/08 07:16 PM
Mailboxes. In my community, they are supposed to be a certain color with a certain type of number on the side.
Driving through the community, you'll see top notch lawns, lovely homes and mailboxes that are falling apart, or just need a coat of paint. I took these pictures just driving … (10 comments)
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prince william county: The Top 5 Thing to Do When You're in Prince William County, VA - 06/28/08 06:42 PM
Some might argue that Manassas and the surrounding Prince William County are a stop on your way to destinations beyond. I disagree. You'd be surprised what we have to offer to brighten your day. There's fun for all ages and interests.
Here are the top five things I'd recommend you do … (22 comments)
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prince william county: Two of My Favorite Words: ADULT SWIM - 06/25/08 11:36 PM
Tonight I tried something I haven't done in a looong time. I went swimming. It was adult swim at my community pool (Braemar) from 8pm-10pm.
The water is usually not as cold that time of day, so I was looking forward to it. (That is as much as an overweight female … (18 comments)
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prince william county: Ready to Open the Door to Your New Home? - 06/21/08 08:57 PM
The idea of buying a home can be extremely intimidating, especially if you're a first time homebuyer. You have no idea where to start, and no idea who to ask for help. Start with a Realtor.
Do an online search for agents that know that your marketplace. Give them a call … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Active Adult Communities: Are They Right For You? - 06/21/08 02:17 PM
Active Adult Communities are a fairly new thing in the Northern Virginia real estate market. Typically, they are age restricted to people 55 or over.
These communities are geared toward soon-to-retire, semi-retired and retired adults that still like an active lifestyle. They usually feature a large clubhouse for social gatherings, fitness, … (6 comments)
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prince william county: A Lesson in Patience and Trust - 06/18/08 04:41 PM
My husband and I have two very mellow, people-oriented cats. Why are they like that? Because I was picking them up constantly from the time they were 10 days old. They have no fear of me.
So in December last year, when my husband and I took in a litter of … (16 comments)
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prince william county: MacGyver Saves Us From Heat Stroke - 06/12/08 11:53 AM
Necessity truly is the Mother of Invention. As you may know, Northern Virginia has been dealing with a heat wave. This has made outdoor life nearly unbearable when combined with our typical summer humidity....and it's only Spring!!
This year, to cut down on rising energy costs, my husband and I made … (2 comments)
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prince william county: House Hunting in a Heat Wave - 06/08/08 11:38 PM
Every summer, my business attire gets a bit more casual. There is nothing worse than being stuck in a car with a well dressed Realtor with B.O. So I keep it simple, loose and light.
Today I experienced what would have been a typical summer day house hunting, but there were … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Backyard Bunnies - 06/06/08 05:24 PM
I've been living in my house in Bristow, VA for 3 1/2 years now. When we first moved out here, I was totally amazed that we had so much wildlife.
I was certainly not so familiar with residential wildlife where I grew up in Fairfax City, just about 20 miles from … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Terrifying Storms in Northern Virginia!! - 06/05/08 06:43 PM
This picture was taken yesterday, at about 7:30pm, as a second line of powerful, tornado spawning, storm cells moved through our area. The first cell had the tops of our twenty foot trees touching the ground as we saw 70 mph gusts. A tornado touched down just about ten miles away. … (5 comments)
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prince william county: Bank Sales and HOAs - 06/04/08 05:45 PM
More and more REO (bank owned) properties are showing up in Prince William County, and the entire Northern Virginia area. I believe that there are 7,000 homes in Prince William County in various stages of foreclose.
Be aware, once the bank takes possession of the home, you as the potential home … (3 comments)
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prince william county: Bristow, VA: Just Listed in Braemar! 4 BR Canterbury for $490,000! - 06/04/08 05:03 PM
This is a short sale opportunity for the right buyer. Pre-foreclosure sale of a large, Canterbury model by Brookfield, only four years old!House has a formal living and dining room flanking the center hall entrance. Hardwood floors on main level.
Butlers pantry connects kitchen to dining room. Gourmet kitchen is … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Time for a Cutie Pie Break - 06/03/08 06:02 PM
After the day I've had, it's time to sit back and give some love to this lttle furry gal that keeps trying to get my attention. She waits and waits...and waits.......and waits some more. And eventually, if I don't respond within the limit of her kitty-kat patience, she gives up. Poor little Minx. … (18 comments)
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prince william county: Joy To the World! It's the ICE CREAM MAN!!! - 05/31/08 08:41 PM
Last summer I was out watering my flowers and shrubs, when I heard the sound of summer...the ice cream man. I didn't pay much attention to his circus-like music, but found myself humming along. Then it hit me! The ice cream man was playing Christmas carols!
Yes, the Sweet Tooth Ice … (8 comments)
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prince william county: Gas Station Signs Don't Read That High!! - 05/30/08 08:56 PM
I was shocked the other day when I was driving by the gas station near my home. A digital display was manually changed to show the over $4.00 a gallon for middle and premium grades of gas.
So, there is the obvious fact that evidently no one thought gas prices would … (10 comments)
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prince william county: In Between Appointments and Needed to Blog.... - 05/30/08 05:33 PM
What a hectic week! Maybe it's because it's been a short one. Maybe because Active Rain is really paying off in leads. Maybe because my listings are getting contracts. Whatever it is, I won't complain. I will only tell you I am bone tired and will sleep like a log tonight. … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Consistency Pays Off - 05/27/08 08:38 PM
I am always buzzing with excitement whenever I get a referral. It reaffirms what I am doing in my marketing, in my personal notes and phone calls is working. It also reaffirms that I am doing my job to my clients' satisfaction. Unsatisfied clients don't send their friends and family your … (2 comments)
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prince william county: VA Loans for VA Homes - 05/26/08 12:03 PM
Are you a potential first-time homebuyer that qualifies for a VA (Veterans Administration) Loan? If you do, you'd be silly not to request your Certificate of Eligibility and start the home buying process. You can find out if you qualify here.
VA Loans may be the last true source of 100% financing, … (0 comments)
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prince william county: The White Family Up The Street.... - 05/25/08 10:29 AM
I farm the neighborhood I live in. The agents in my office will routinely call me if they have questions about this neighborhood from either a listing, or buying perspective...and I am always happy to help.
Well, last summer I had the listing directly across the street from my home. A … (15 comments)
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prince william county: Prince William County Proposal May Reduce Bank Owned Inventory - 05/20/08 10:10 PM
Prince William County, over the last twelve months has lost 30% of its resale values for homes. This is due in part to the extremely large number of foreclosures that have happened in the County. It is estimated that there are nearly 7,000 homes in Prince William County right now in … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Up Since 6:30am on Saturday - 05/17/08 05:20 PM
My dedication to my fellow agents is a strong one. I am not a morning person. I wake up around 8:30am and that's early. I spend the first half of every work day in my "jammies" in the home office. But today was a red letter day.
I woke up at … (4 comments)
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prince william county: Manassas, VA: More Satisfied First Time Homebuyers! - 05/14/08 02:13 PM
Yesterday was a great day for a settlement! The spring temperatures, blue skys and slight breeze..couldn't have asked for better weather.
My buyers made a terrific deal on this 3 level, townhouse in the City of Manassas. For 30% below the low, 2008 Tax Assessed Value, they got three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a fully fenced backyard, … (3 comments)
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prince william county: Haymarket, VA: Regency at Dominion Valley. What Doesn't This Community Offer? - 05/14/08 12:00 PM
What a beautiful community. It hits you as soon as you see the manicured flowers in front of the sign.
The amenities start with the 24 hour manned, gated entrance.
To your left is the absolutely AMAZING CLUBHOUSE.
Inside the clubhouse you'll find:
Ballroom
Pub-style dining facilty on the lower level
Indoor … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Haymarket, VA: 3 Bedroom Condo in Regency at Dominion Valley for $420,000 - 05/12/08 11:02 PM
Here's a brochure for my most recent listing in Regency at Dominon Valley. A separate post for Regency, and it's many amenities, will follow. And for interior photos of the condo, log on to www.nvarealestate.net.
To schedule a tour please email or call. This condo is rare opportuity as Toll Brothers has … (2 comments)
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prince william county: A Bad Argument to Make with a Counter Offer - 05/10/08 11:48 AM
So I presented a lowball offer on a property I have listed that is priced according to current market conditions. It doesn't bother me. And I prepared my seller for it with a simple statement, "If you wanted to make an offer on a house, would you start with full price offer?" … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Property Value Report: Heritage Series (March 1-April 30, 2008) - 05/05/08 04:47 PM
After seeing no resales in the Heritage Series single family homes of Braemar (Yardley, Exeter, Zachary and Waverly floor plans) for the first months of the year, it is refreshing to report that thre have been six sales between March and April 2008. Two of those are brand new homes just … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Gainesville, VA: A Sunset Walk Through Heritage Hunt - 05/01/08 09:26 AM
My mother moved in to the condos of Heritage Hunt in November 2007. This is her first Spring in her new community. Last night I met her just before sunset to take a short walk and see some of the sights.The sun was turning the sky behind the mountains a soft … (5 comments)
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prince william county: Builders Yard Sale: June 7th in Prince William County - 04/28/08 11:01 AM
Here's a chance to get some home construction items, and help support a worthy cause.Appliances, cabinets, and windows are just some of the things you will be able to choose from at he 8th Annual Builders Yard Sale. It will be held on June 7th, from 8am-2pm, rain or shine, at … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Prince William County's Illegal Immigration Issue is Being Debated Again - 04/26/08 03:22 PM
On the afternoon of April 24th, I received an email from Prince William County Chairman Corey Stewart regarding the matter of enforcement of illegal immigration in the County.As you may, or may not know, the County had recently passed leglislation to do the following:Allow Law Enforcement to check the immigration/residency status of anyone … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Inexpensive Home Improvement For Spring - 04/24/08 06:20 PM
I just had my driveway sealed for the first time ever! What a difference it made to the overall appearance to my home. A huge improvement to my curb appeal. And since it only cost me $63, makes me wonder why I waited so long to do it.It was a minor inconvenience as I … (11 comments)
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prince william county: Avoid a Common Mistake that Could Damage Your Home this Grilling Season - 04/19/08 10:35 AM
While the smells of freshly cut grass, blooming flowers, and brand new mulch incite that giddy feeling of Spring Fever, my favorite Spring and Summer aroma is definitely the "cook out". Hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, chicken or even fish. It doesn't matter what you're cooking. If you are cooking out on … (3 comments)
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prince william county: Has the Fall Out of Your 2007 Tax Return Got You Thinking About Home Ownership? - 04/18/08 11:54 AM
It is mid-April and Prince William County is buzzing with Spring Fever. The flowers are blooming, the lawns are greening up and the trees are filling out again. What a beautiful time of year! A big sigh of relief as you enjoy all of this knowing that the tax deadline has … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Christmas in April?: Seeing the Value in a Home Owners Association - 04/15/08 09:12 PM
I spent the latter half of my afternoon driving around and taking photos for some BPOs in an older SFH community. It was a lovely spring day, and a great day to be out and about.For all the conflict an Home Owners Association can bring to the surface with some home … (5 comments)
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prince william county: Prince William County Townhouses See Another Decrease in Average Sales Price - 04/14/08 10:32 AM
According to statistics compiled by NVAR (Northern Virginia Association of Realtors), Prince William County* "attached" homes had an average sales price of $230,350 in February 2008. That was a 30% decrease from the prior February.Now, in March 2008, the aeverage sales price of these "attached" homes, or townhouses as they are … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Prince William County Single Family Homes See an Increase in Sales Price - 04/13/08 02:19 PM
Since July 2007, Prince William County single family homes have been trending down in price, rather rapidly. I opened the March 2008 report provided by NVAR (Northern Virginia Association of Realtors) expecting the next rung down on our journey through this housing crisis. I was pleasantly surprised on what I saw.
For … (2 comments)
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prince william county: A Lesson From the Animal Kingdom: Dealing with Aggressive Attitudes - 04/11/08 09:25 AM
As a Realtor,I have dealt with countless situations that put me on the defensive. I used to fight back verbally. Giving it right back to my opponent...tit for tat.Obviously to succeed as a Realtor, the object is not for us, the agent, to win...but our clients. So it is always in our … (3 comments)
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prince william county: When the Going Gets Tough...What Does Your Agent Do? - 04/09/08 08:18 PM
As per usual for the second Wednesday of the month, I attended my local associations Education Committee meeting. I've been working on developing a short sale class to help listing and buying agents understand their role in a smooth short sale transaction. I must say, I'm getting tired of the attitude … (7 comments)
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prince william county: Prince William County Supervisors Set Maximum Tax Rate Increase to $1 - 04/08/08 10:04 AM
The current Prince Wiliam County real estate tax rate is .79 per $100 of assessed value. On March 25th, in a special session, the Board of Supervisors voted to make the maximum tax rate $1.00 per $100 of assessed value. Dissenting votes were Wally Covington (Brentsville District), Corey Stewart (Chairman) and John Stirrup (Gainesville District). While … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Listing Tip: Curb Appeal on a Budget - 04/02/08 01:38 PM
This may seem like an obvious recommendation, but if you want to get a positive first reaction from buyers when they first pull up at your home, curb appeal is a must. You don't need to break the bank to get curb appeal either. Make sure all toys, bikes, garbage receptacles, etc are … (0 comments)
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prince william county: What Listing Agents Can Do to Make Bank Response Time Quicker in Short Sales - 03/31/08 06:07 PM
I really should entitle any post I write about short sales as "Musings from the Edge of Sanity." I keep reading posts about Realtors frustrations with various banks, and how loooong they are taking to approve a short sale. I think it's time for us to take a look at how … (6 comments)
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prince william county: NVTA Taxes One Step Closer to Being Refunded - 03/30/08 11:58 AM
Last week, Virginia Governor Kaine signed into law the bill that makes the Northern Virginia Tranportation Authority Tax unconstitutional, and sets the timelines for refunding the money collected from home sellers since January 1, 2008. You can review a copy of the bill the Governor signed at www.hb3202.virginia.gov.The timelines do indicate the … (0 comments)
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prince william county: It's Not a Piece of **** on a Paper Plate....It's a PROSPECT!!!!!! - 03/29/08 12:07 PM
I just read a great post http://activerain.com/blogsview/444248/What-Kind-of-Agent by Jeremy Blanton of Myrtle Beach, SC, talking about the difference between REALTORS and LICENSEES. If you have time, you should make that your next stop on AR. His post reminded me of an incident that very clearly demonstrates the very difference that Jeremy is … (7 comments)
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prince william county: Call 4-1-1 from your Cell Phone at No Charge - 03/28/08 10:53 AM
What a great tip I just got from a friend of mine! I have to share it.Dial 1-800-FREE-411 from your cell phone and you won't be charged. Seems you wouldn't be charged if you called from home either...but I haven't yet tried the service.If you dial information as much as I … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Dunbarton: NOT a Golf Course Community - 03/18/08 11:35 PM
In Northern Prince William County there are three active adult (age 55 or better) communities that cater to the Active Adult lifestyle. Unlike Heritage Hunt and Regency, Dunbarton is the one active adult community in the area that caters to the active adult lifestyle without featuring a golf course.Dunbarton is located … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Second Class Listings--Rentals - 03/12/08 08:28 PM
I'll never understand how agents, who want to work on a referral only basis, will treat a rental listing with a degree of disdain. Why will some listing agents not even take the time to add photos to the MLS listing? Room measurements? How about HOA amenities?Don't these agents realize that there is … (3 comments)
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prince william county: An Award I Didn't Expect - 03/11/08 07:13 PM
Long & Foster gave away their annual sales achievement awards last month. I knew that I had finally jumped out of the first rung, EXECUTIVES CLUB, and into the DIRECTORS CLUB. I was thrilled about that. You see, so many Realtors in our area have allowed slumping market conditions to affect … (7 comments)
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prince william county: A Book Every Realtor Should Own - 03/04/08 11:28 AM
If you are going to be involved in a contract negotiation, you need to read this book. SECRETS OF POWER NEGOTIATING FOR SALESPEOPLE by Roger Dawson. It's a quick read and goes through many of the negotiating tactics that are used in our livs EVERYDAY! I used to be worried going … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Why Buyers Should Be In Their New Home before January 2009 - 03/03/08 04:15 PM
I can't be the only one out there that is wondering how long the Federal government can keep this up? And by keeping this up, I really mean, keeping interest rates low in an effort to stimulate our housing market.When housing prices fall, interest rates typically rise. And vice versa. It … (1 comments)
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prince william county: Braemar Townhouse Report: January-February 2008 - 03/03/08 01:33 PM
The Braeamar Townhouse Report, detailing the most recent townhouse sales in the community of Braemar, is now complete for the first two months of 2008. Here's how things stand:
TOWNHOUSES WITH NO GARAGE
Average Sales Price: $242,133
One /One Year Ago: $312,500
Average Seller Subsidy: $7,966
One Year Ago: $11,250
Average Days on Market: 65
One Year Ago: … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Congestion Relief Tax Declared Unconstitutional - 03/02/08 11:02 AM
On February 29th The Virginia Supreme Court declared the Congestion Relief Tax unconstitutional. This was a tax, levied on home sellers, making their typical GRANTORS TAX increase 500% on January 1st this year. What made it unconstitutional, was the fact that it was a tax levied by a COMMITTEE of LOCAL … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Arista Series Home Sales in Braemar: January-February 2008 - 03/02/08 10:33 AM
Live in a large single family home in Braemar, but not sure if it is an ARISTA SERIES home? Well, to begin, the builder of the Arista Series was Brookfield Homes. Furthermore, there are only three floorplans in this series: the Canterbury (by far the most popular in the neighborhood), the … (0 comments)
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prince william county: January & February 2008 Sales Figures for Carriage Homes in Braemar - 02/28/08 09:05 AM
Carriage Homes in Braemar have been a constant source of sales during the downtrending market in Prince William County. These last two month, a total of three Carriage Homes sold.
First of all, if you are not familiar with the Carriage Homes, to put it plainly, they are the homes in … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Am I Missing Something? Don't ARMS Have an Adjustment Limit? - 02/26/08 09:57 AM
It seems that everyday when I turn on the news, I hear more and more about the housing crisis in our country. Foreclosures continue to increase, home sales are decreasing. And somehow, ARM mortgages are the ones that are given the bad wrap.ARMS have specific adjustments...at least the plain old vanilla … (3 comments)
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prince william county: So You THINK You Live in Braemar - 02/25/08 10:54 PM
As a Realtor, I got involved in my HOA because I understand the benefit of great community amenities and community covenants. But when I first learned about Tartan Hills Village's relationship to Braemar (the larger community that THV is located within), I was shocked. To begin, the concept of Braemar is … (2 comments)
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prince william county: Do You Mean What You Say? Or Should I Pick Up the Check Anyway? - 02/24/08 12:54 PM
There is never a boring minute in real estate. It's one of the reasons I love my job. In my first year of real estate, I found myself going broke buying lunches and dinners for potential clients. I was out to impress. I'd even argue others out of paying the bill. Then, a … (10 comments)
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prince william county: Parents Know Best---Or Should You Listen To Your Realtor? - 02/24/08 12:18 PM
Parents are always the first ones we go to for advice, especially with big decisions that they have already been through. And why not? They raised us from infancy. They taught us right from wrong, nursed our physical and emotional wounds, and helped us blossom into the adults we are … (5 comments)
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prince william county: Great Buyer Reactions!! - 02/22/08 04:41 PM
In my three years selling homes, I had never gotten that one buyer that had a reaction I will never forget....that was...until today.It began with a negotiation that had my buyer and I on the edge of our seats. An additional offer came in at the last minute, just when we had verbally … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery---Or Are People Just Lazy? - 02/22/08 04:27 PM
I teach technology classes to the newer agents, or technically challenged vets, in my office twice a month. Yesterday's class was on making the most of an agent website that is a freebe from our company.Imagine my surprise when my first pupil opened up her website, and I was staring at … (3 comments)
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prince william county: If I Can't Have This House----No One Can!!! - 02/17/08 06:28 PM
After a day of looking in the $250,000-$300,000 price range in the community of South Riding in Loudoun County, Virginia I am utterly exhausted. It is more of a mental fatigue than a physical one.99% of the homes I have seen in the pat three months have been bank owned properties. … (8 comments)
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prince william county: Keeping your Home Secure! - 02/16/08 11:32 AM
In my neighborhood of Braemar in Prince William County, VA we've experienced a couple of break-ins recently. While no one was hurt and very little was taken, there is nothing like it to shake up the neighborhood and make you feel vulnerable. Several of my neighbors and I got together and made … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Combination Boxes...Why I Won't Use Them - 02/15/08 06:20 PM
The real estate market in Northern Virginia has seen an increase in foreclosure listings, short sale listings and the unfortunate rise of combination boxes. I know they about 75% cheaper than electronic lockboxes, but that's no reason to use them. This step back in technology has brought out the worst in some … (9 comments)
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prince william county: What Second Mortgages May Do to Make Money When Facing A Short Sale - 02/01/08 10:57 AM
I would start this particular post by saying that I was surprised when this happened in a transaction where I was a buyer representative, but at this point nothing in a short sale transaction surprises me. As a buyer representative, I try to prepare my buyers for the gut wrenching drama … (5 comments)
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prince william county: Active Adult Condo---Reduced to $199K - 01/10/08 02:45 PM
Here's a condo that reduced its price to SELL! It's a Foxfield Model by Toll Brothers in the active adult community of Regency (Hayrmarket, VA). Only slightly more than a year old, this home is beating it's new home rivals by as much as $60,000. The third floor (top floor) is … (0 comments)
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prince william county: Short Sale Snake Pit: Multiple Ratified Contracts? - 01/08/08 05:06 PM
In Northern Virginia, our third party approval clause in a contract is actually a contingency. Just like a home inspection or sale of home. It has a certain of number of days that is in place from the date of ratification, and if it expires without the written disapproval by the … (5 comments)
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prince william county: New Listing in Gainesville, VA - 12/29/07 12:34 PM
… (1 comments)
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prince william county: Short Sale Listings---What Can You Do Up Front to Make The Process Easier - 12/11/07 08:50 AM
In the Northern Virginia market is is becoming all to common to find people who are not able to sell their home for what they owe. Short sales are a buzzword to some, but in reality are tricky to work. Here are some pointers so you won't waste your time listing, … (6 comments)
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prince william county: New Year's Resolution: Don't Give Away Free Information! - 12/02/07 11:50 AM
With the downturn of the real estate market in Northern Virginia everyone knows it is important to stay upbeat about market conditions. When I'm out and about, wearing my name badge, and someone asks, "So how's the market?," I thought I was doing the right thing by pumping up the market … (2 comments)
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prince william county: SOLD IN BRAEMAR!! - 12/02/07 11:35 AM
On November 30th this beautiful Yardley Model, a 4 BR, 2.5 BA home with an unfinished basement went to settlement for a sales price of $400,000 with no seller subsidy. The key feature of this home was the backyard. It featured a matrue tree save area, two stone patios, a deck, … (0 comments)
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prince william county: REDUCED...Now $95,000 Below 2007 Tax Assessment!!! - 12/02/07 10:11 AM
What a wonderful place to call home! This two bedroom, two bathroom 3rd floor condo offers all the perks of the 55+ community. It is a 1 year old Foxfield Model by Toll Brothers.Located in Regency you can enjoy the Arnold Palmer designed golf course, putting greens, fitness trails, and a … (1 comments)
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prince william county: My Chance to Be a Fly on the Wall - 11/28/07 08:59 AM
I've often heard stories from agents in my area about the new home builders doing their best to cut out the Realtors from new home transactions. I must admit I thought a lot of this was just sour grapes on the part of the agent who got left out. Seemed no … (6 comments)
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prince william county: Reflecting on 2007...How Involvement and Education Worked! - 11/27/07 10:10 AM
We all know that 2007 wasn't a great year for real estate. And yet, many Realtors were having their best years ever. I was one of those agents with more business than I'd had in my prior two years.
For starters, I had a business plan put together for 2007 before … (3 comments)
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