Real Estate 101

Rolling Thunder To Arrive In Nations Capital

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sun, 19 May 2013 14:42:11 -0700

Those of us who live in the Washington DC Metro area are very much accustomed to both the Visuals and Sound of Rolling Thunder riding in on their Motorcycles every Memorial Day Weekend. Bikers from all around America/Canada and more support this event to NEVER forget those Service Members who were abandoned after the Vietnam War. They also endeavor to have an affect on National Policy in a way that will assist POW/MIAs.

Personally, I want all of the bikers to know that we support you and are grateful you will be rolling into our communities to remind us of our need, along with you, to never forget those left behind. We are looking forward to your presence among us this Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-27, 2013.

By the way, Rolling Thunder has an awesome Website with a Video worth watching. It is: The Official Site Of Rolling Thunder

Rolling Thunder To Arrive In Nations Capital.

David Burrows

David L. Burrows, Realtor®
Classic Realty, Ltd.,
7529 Presidential Lane, Manassas, Virginia 20109
Serving: Gainesville VA, Haymarket and ALL of Northern Virginia
Direct: 703.859.5188
Office: 703.637.1400
Blog: David Burrows Properties
Blog: Real Estate Starting Point
Blog: Real Estate 101
Search For A Home: Virginia Online Home Search

It is always an honor to assist Home Buyers and Sellers with their Northern Virginia Real Estate needs. If you want to search the MLS for Real Estate Listings, or even become more specific with your search, such as the Fairfax MLS, utilize the valuable tools on my website. If you are looking for a Home in Gainesville Virginia; the Gainesville VA Homes For Sale area; Condos For Sale In Fairfax Virginia; Fairfax Homes For Sale; or a home anywhere within the Gainesville VA Homes For Sale area, simply click on the appropriate link. I serve ALL of the above areas throughout Northern Virginia.

Most important, Write, Phone or Text Me with any questions.

A Wolf Trap Reminder For Memorial Day Weekend

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Fri, 17 May 2013 10:27:59 -0700

I want all of my readers to be reminded of the various entertainment at Wolf Trap for Memorial Day weekend.

1) A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor will take place on Friday and Saturday, May 24, at 8 pm and May 25th, at 5:45 pm. There will be guest performances, comedy, music and of course The News from Lake Wobegon. I've linked to the home page of this event.

2) The President's Own United States Marine Band will be performing, too! What better time for a concert like this than Sunday before Memorial Day. Again, I've linked to the home page of this event, too! Don't forget, Fireworks follows the performance.

A Wolf Trap Reminder For Memorial Day Weekend

David Burrows

So How Much Should I Tip My Movers?

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Wed, 15 May 2013 07:21:16 -0700

I was just asked by one of my clients a question about Moving Companies. More specifically, how much do you tip the movers? Are tips expected? Do I give everything to the Foreman of the crew and let him/her disperse the money to the other individuals or simply give to each person myself?

These are all very good questions. If you are like me, you want to be fair and I like to think of tips as "Merit pay". The job has been done well and whatever I choose to give the movers should be a true reflection of my appreciation.

I did notice this post on the subject of tipping movers. You might want to take a look because it does get into specifics when tipping. Remember, I'm a Real Estate Professional, not a mover, and that is why this article can really assist you on the subject: Tipping Movers?

So How Much Should I Tip My Movers? For sure, tip each individual - don't give it all to the Foreman and let it show a reflection of your gratitude for a job well done.

David Burrows

A Favorite Craft Show In Northern Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:12:22 -0700

One of our favorite Craft Shows in Northern Virginia, takes place on June 1st and 2nd, 2013. The place is in Occoquan, Virginia. The time is from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday.

Occoquan, Virginia is always an interesting place to visit with a wonderful setting, food, shops of all kinds. When you add the Craft Show, you simply don't want to miss the moment.

Here is the Official Occoquan Craft Show website. This is rated F/R for Family Friendly...

The Occoquan Show is certainly a favorite craft show in Northern Virginia.

David Burrows

Wolf Trap 2013

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 11 May 2013 14:04:30 -0700

Many of my readers know I love attending Wolf Trap. The concerts are in a wonderful setting and the entertainment is always top notch. This year will be no exception. In fact, you might want to check out the entertainment list for 2013. A Prairie Home Companion; the President's own United States Marine Band; Earth, Wind and Fire; Harry Connick, Jr; Diana Ross and so much more.

One thing to remember is lawn seats are much less in price and coupled with that, you can have a picnic on the grounds while enjoying the Concert. Go here to learn about Summer Picnics At Wolftrap.

For a full lineup of concerts and events, follow this link: Wolftrap Concerts & Events

Wolf Trap 2013

David Burrows

Celebrating National Train Day

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Fri, 10 May 2013 13:15:47 -0700

I have always had a fascination for trains. I grew up just blocks from the Grand Trunk Railroad in Port Huron, Michigan. I remember as a child, listening to the trains at night. I can still, to this day hear the Railroad Cars being switched - connected and unconnected to each other in the middle of the night. In fact, my Uncle was a Conductor on the Railroad.

Tomorrow, May 9th, 2013 is National Train Day. If you live in and around our Nation's Capital, you will want to take a journey to this website - National Train Day 2013 and note the many events that will help our region celebrate Trains and everything they have done for us down through the years. There will be train rides, luxury railroad car tours, exhibits, giveaways and much more.

It's a great way to spend a Saturday. In fact, don't be surprised if you see this Realtor taking a few hours off from Real Estate Celebrating National Train Day.

David Burrows

Touring Fairfax County Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Thu, 09 May 2013 04:56:46 -0700

Fairfax County Virginia is truly a great place to live. There is much to do and see by way of fun stuff and studying history. Of course I must state history can be enjoyable, too!

I've often referred people who are not familiar with Northern Virgina to a website that talks about the National Air and Space Museum, Bull Run Regional Park, Wolftrap, Cherry Hill Farmhouse and more. In fact, the site contains 80 different things to do and see in Fairfax County. I urge you to take some time for the purpose of Touring Fairfax County Virginia.

Follow this link to learn about: Fairfax County Virginia Tourism

David Burrows

Northern Virginia Summer Activities

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Wed, 08 May 2013 15:34:17 -0700

There is always something to do, something to see, and to be involved in when it comes to Northern Virginia. In other words, it’s a pretty tough thing to say, “I don’t know what to do”, if you live in this part of the country.

If you are searching for Family Activities this summer, you might want to browse this site: 10 Suggestions For Summer Fun In Northern Virginia

I hope you enjoy the summer but do remember, many of these activities can take place in the winter, too.

Northern Virginia Summer Activities

David Burrows

Friday Nights In Herndon Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Mon, 06 May 2013 15:09:41 -0700

Herndon Friday Night Live begins this Friday, May 10th, 2013 and runs from 6:30 - 10:30 Pm. It is the most popular weekly concert series in the greater DC area. It has been highlighted as a "Must see" while in Fairfax County.

Their web page mentions that "The performers are both regional and local, play Rock and Roll, with a little reggae, funk and original music thrown in." This is a great way to spend Friday Nights in Herndon.

To learn more you can visit their website: Herndon Rocks

Friday Nights In Herndon Virginia

David Burrows

Get Your Free Credit Score Here

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 04 May 2013 14:59:11 -0700

One of the issues I often discuss on this blog is in reference to getting your
Pre-Approval for your next Mortgage.

I've noted recently, in talking with clients who already have their Pre-Approval, that
one reason some of them dragged their feet in this process, is they
feared rejection when asking for a loan. I understand this because I am much
the same way. Who wants to experience rejection? This is why I am always
checking my Credit Score. I want to know where I stand with my Credit.
While there is other criteria involved in securing your next Mortgage, we all
know that Credit Scores play a HUGE role in this process.

Here is a link you can try if you like to check your Credit Score for FREE!
It reflects on only one of your scores, but it can really help you
to have some peace of mind. The link: Credit Karma

Finally, remember knowledge can be power when endeavoring to buy or sell
Real Estate. If I can help you in this process, even by supplying names
of Lenders my Clients have had a measure of success with in the
past, please Write or Phone me.

David Burrows

Some Energy Saving Ideas

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 04 May 2013 06:49:09 -0700

We all know that saving energy at home is very important. In fact, we understand by personal experience that energy is not costing us less, but in fact prices continue to rise. Is there anything we can do to save on home related energy and as a result, save money?

Here is an article that could be worth the time it takes to read. Hopefully you won’t just read it but you will act on the cost saving ideas that are shared. By the way, we’ve changed several of our lights in our home to energy saving bulbs. Additionally, we’ve caulked around two drafty windows and resealed our doors. Now for the writing: 17 Ways to Reduce Home Energy Cost.

One more thought to consider: Remember, saving energy is not only good for your wallet but it is also means we are taking care of our environment in a responsible manner. Some Energy Saving Ideas, that is something we all can all live with.

David Burrows

Some Tips For Upgrading Your House

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Fri, 03 May 2013 13:54:06 -0700

In our present Real Estate market, many sellers want to be at the front of the competition when listing their house for sale. In other words, if there are four other houses on the same street for sale, it is not uncommon to want to have the best planned, arranged and priced house. Why not and in fact, it makes a lot of sense to have a well prepared home when selling it. You want to price your home attractively and the appearance should be second to none.

Having stated the above, please be careful that you don’t over do any renovation or upgrade. If you do, a couple of things could happen. First, you might have to raise the price of your house to cover the repairs and upgrades and as a result, buyers won’t consider your property. They will think it is too expensive! Second, when you finally adjust your price so that your property will sell, you will find yourself losing money. In other words, you will have to sell it for less than what the upgrades would have realistically cost you.

Here is an excellent article that you can point your mouse toward in getting more information on upgrades that don’t pay. The article is titled, 4 Housing Upgrades That Don’t Pay.

David Burrows

An Opportunity To Learn About Alexandria Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Thu, 02 May 2013 13:24:41 -0700

I enjoy surfing the net at times, just looking for Activities In Northern Virginia to be involved in. I found this interesting site the other day and thought it worth posting about. It is called: Alexandria Virginia: Travel and Historical Information.

It is on this site that you will learn about: Alexandria, Alexandria Night Life, Restaurants, Shopping and of Course about History when it comes to this great city.

To learn more go here: Alexandria Virginia: Travel and Historical Info

Be prepared to stay awhile, it is just that kind of website. It is also an opportunity to learn about Alexandria Virginia.

David Burrows

Things To Do In And Around Fairfax Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:37:22 -0700

Perhaps you have the grandchildren today. Maybe, dad or mom is alone with the kids, or, you simply need something to do that doesn’t cost a lot of money. I have a link to a website that will give you 139 FREE or almost FREE things you can do in Fairfax, any day of the week! I would encourage you to take a look, book mark the page, choose an activity and have fun.

Free and Almost FREE Things To Do In Fairfax Virginia

So there you have it - Things To Do Around Fairfax Virginia... Have Fun!!!

David Burrows

There Is Always Something To Do In Vienna Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:41:58 -0700

One of my favorite things to do in Northern Virginia is to visit Vienna. Simply walking or driving down Main Street is a great experience. There are grocery stores, plenty of restaurants and unique shops. Additionally, don't forget about Wolf Trap!

I noted a great web page about Vienna, VA the other day and thought I would share the link with you. Here you will find things to do and some information about the city itself.

Vienna – Virginia Is For Lovers . . . Don’t be fooled by the title. This is a family/friendly site!

By the way, a good place to shop for Real Estate in ALL of Northern Virginia is: Virginia Online Home Search… This search is already configured for Vienna VA Homes For Sale.

Take a moment and discover There Is Always Something To Do In Vienna Virginia.

David Burrows

One Less Hindrance To The Sale Of Your Home

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:42:21 -0700

Listing Agents often remind their selling clients to “Prepare their house for sale” and rightfully so. We talk about curb appeal, paint colors, staging, having grass cut and trimmed out, decluttering and more. Interesting enough, we often forget one more important thing to do. What is it?

Make sure you have had a locksmith tune up your lock on the front door for easy access when entering and trouble free locking up when a home tour is completed. Why is this important? Some time back, I had a client with me and we had difficulty getting the door unlocked. Finally, after about 5 minutes of trying we had success. I showed the house and then you are probably ahead of me with this one. We couldn’t get the door locked. We tried for at least 15 minutes, calling the owner, the listing Realtor and could reach NO ONE! My buying client was becoming frustrated because we still had 5 more listings to see.

Finally, we had success and it locked. The owner later admitted on the phone, the lock had been giving them trouble!

Here is my rule of thumb to follow: As a seller, you always want to make sure that showing your home is as easy as possible, including the unlocking and finally locking of the door to the entrance of your home. It is one less hindrance to the sale of your home!

David Burrows

Some Answers To Your Mortgage Questions

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:22:15 -0700

As a Realtor®, I’m often asked Mortgage Questions. For example: “How do I know if I can pay my Mortgage off early?” “What is simple interest?” “How much of my payment is actually going toward paying down what I owe?” The list can certainly go on and on.

Let me clear the air… My first response when asked Mortgage Questions is always: “You need to talk with your Bank or perhaps your Loan Officer.” Why? I am not a Mortgage Professional – I am a Realtor®!

Since you now know that I’m not a Mortgage Professional, let me direct you to a great post on the subject.

11 must-knows about early mortgage payoff

Hopefully this writing will give you Some Answers To Your Mortgage Questions

David Burrows

Be Prepared When Making Your Offer To Purchase A Home

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:06:17 -0700

We are currently in a season of experiencing Multiple Offers in Northern Virginia with Home Buyers. This is especially true Inside The Beltway!

As a Real Estate Agent, I'm being asked, "What is the Best Way to place a strong Offer on the Table?" In fact, "What components make up a strong offer?"

I recently noticed a great article on this subject: How To Be The Most Attractive Home Buyer

I hope you will take a look and that you will be prepared when making your offer to purchase a home.

David Burrows

Why is my Earnest Money Check Cashed?

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:53:28 -0700

I have often had people ask questions about what happens with my Earnest Money Check. Most important, is it Cashed? For sure, all of us as Realtors®should be ready to answer. Joan Cox, Denver Realtor®handles the topic very well and I urge you to take a moment to read. It will take just a few moments to do so. Thanks Joan for a great post today!

Via Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate-720-231-6373 (Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate):

Why is my Earnest Money Check Cashed?

If my earnest money is to be used for the final amount at closing, why do they cash my check?    This is a common question, but your earnest money is a promise to pay and good faith to continue with this transaction. If you had nothing on the table to lose, buyers may walk away from a transaction quicker.    If a transaction is to close in a short period of time, good funds will be needed, rather than waiting for a personal check to clear the bank.

I always remind my buyers the check WILL BE CASHED, and to be sure the funds are available in the account before delivering the earnest money check. If this check bounces, it is a sure sign the transaction will not go to closing!

This good faith money will be reduced from the total amount you will need at closing.      Typically it is held at the Title Company on behalf of the buyer.     If there are bumps in the road, and the buyer opts to terminate, two forms Notice to Terminate and Earnest Money Release will need to be signed by both buyer and seller for the earnest money to be returned to buyer.

As a Denver REALTOR® I can guide you through the Denver home buying process with ease.    Give me a call and we can get started with the Denver home purchase!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc.

GRI, ABR, CRS, CNE, e-Pro

Broker/Owner

Joan@JoanCox.com

                                                 720-231-6373 (cell)

Denver Real Estate

A Denver Metropolitan Realtor

David Burrows

Plan Ahead For Memorial Day Weekend In Northern Virginia

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:40:33 -0700

Now is the time to plan your Memorial Day excursion. In fact, if you live in Northern Virginia, you will want to consider ViVa Vienna Memorial Day Festival in Vienna, Virginia. It's not just for children but for the entire family. There will be amusement rides, crafts, vendors and did I say - FOOD? Remember, 100% of proceeds go to charitable, community and humanitarian organizations.

You can go to their Website here: Viva Vienna Memorial Day Festival

Plan Ahead For Memorial Day Weekend In Northern Virginia

David Burrows

Preparing Your House For Sale - Part 2

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:38:47 -0700

If you were unable to read Part One of this Two Part Series, you can follow this link: Preparing Your House For Sale - Part 1. For now, here is the final step by step approach to getting your house listed and on the Market. We begin with number six.

6. Pay attention to curb appeal
You need to trim shrubs, pull weeds, shovel snow in the winter, replace or paint the old rusty mailbox and much more to have decent curb appeal. Ask some friends to drive by when you are finished and to give you their honest opinion on your curb appeal. By the way, don't forget the roof when thinking about curb appeal. Here is a previous post on the subect of roof stains.....

7. Consider having a pre-home inspection and purchase a home warranty for the next buyer
While this isn't by any means a mandate, it can tell the prospective buyer you believe in the product - your house - that you are selling.

8. Disappear while your house is being shown
Please get lost when your house is being shown. I was showing a house the other evening and the homeowner was there. She became offended when my clients were opening cupboard doors to check out the condition of the cabinets. We left sooner than usual and I can assure you, my client isn't purchasing that property.

9. Set a Realistic price
Books have been written on this subject. As for me, I will NEVER accept a listing of a house that is over priced. Besides, in many instances the house will have to appraise at market value in order to finance.

10. Employ the services of a Realtor® rather than endeavoring to sell the house yourself
The statistics are out there. Realtors® are very successful at selling houses. This is what we do and I would love to help you sell your home.

David Burrows

Preparing Your House For Sale

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 16:13:41 -0700

Here is a step by step approach on Preparing Your House For Sale - Part One. The other part will follow tomorrow.

1. De-clutter and de-personalize
Consider renting a Storage Locker. When it comes to De-personalizing, number 4 on my list will help cover that.

2. Work on getting rid of odors
Odors can be a real roadblock in selling your property. Ask you agent, "How does my house smell?" Be serious when you ask. Be ready for the Real Estate Agents honest reply.

3. Employ the services of a major maid cleaning service company
This isn't as expensive as you think and it can definitely decrease the days on the market for your home. In other words, your home might just sell faster!

4. Employ a professional to stage your home
I strongly believe in professional Home Staging. I could share example after example of homes that haven't sold because they needed to be staged. Over-sized furniture needed to be stored, or Pictures on the wall needed to be swapped out for something not so personal. The list can go on and on.

5. Don’t forget to clean the garage
Remember, your garage is part of the property you want to sell. Make it salable!

I will offer five additional ways on preparing your house for sale in tomorrow's post!

David Burrows

Enjoying The Beauty Of Spring

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 16:30:41 -0700

We've been enjoying the Springtime in Northern Virginia. After a longer than usual Winter, it has been refreshing to grab the camera and take a walk, snapping some photos. I hope you will take a moment and enjoy the flowers.

Did I mention, All photos were all taken within a stones throw of where we live. Enjoying the beauty of Spring.

Have a Great Weekend!

David Burrows

A Family Event You Won't Want to Miss

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:29:45 -0700

I've written several times in the past about The Flying Circus. The first show of the season will take off on May 6th, 2013. This is an event the entire family will love attending. The Circus is 42 years old and features stunts, formation patterns, aerobatics and wing walkers. The best part of the deal is the price - just $10.00.

You can go to their website to learn more: The Flying Circus

One more thing: If you miss the first show - no worries - because they will be flying every Sunday until October.

The Flying Circus Is A Family Event You Won't Want To Miss

David Burrows

Celtic Woman To Appear At Wolf Trap

David Burrows (Classic Realty) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:50:18 -0700

If you have enjoyed past concerts from Celtic Woman, please note they will be at Wolf Trap on Friday, June 14th, at 8 pm. They have often been praised as Riverdance for the Voice! I would urge you to check out Celtic Woman Website and you can also follow the link to the Wolf Trap Site.

Celtic Woman Website

Celtic Woman at Wolf Trap

One more thing: The Celtic Woman Website also has a Video to view.

Celtic Woman To Appear at Wolf Trap

David Burrows