Northern Virginia Real Estate & Coffee-Talk

2707 Floris Lane, Oak Hill VA ~ Gorgeous 2.5 Acre Virginia Horse Property

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:59:18 -0800

Dee Dawson | Keller Williams Realty/The Gus Anthony Team | dee@finevirginiahomes.com | 571-283-1230

2707 Floris Lane, Oak Hill, VA

2.5 Acre Copper Goose Estate

5BR/3+2BA Single Family House

offered at $949,000

Year Built	1956
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 2 partial
Floors	3
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	2.47 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

NOTHING ON THE MARKET COMPARES! Unique Country Colonial on Private 2.5 Acres. Pastoral & Lake Views From Wraparound Porch and Upper Deck. Four-Stall Horse Barn + Paddock To Board Your Horses! 2008 Built New England Carriage House with Loft Plus Three-Car Garage. Fine Finishes And Updates Throughout Including Gourmet Kitchen with Granite and Professional Stainless Appliances, Updated Bathrooms, Refinished Hardwoods. Private Nooks and Storage Galore. Meticulously Maintained Systems. The Carriage House Can Be Three-Season Party Room Or A Car Enthusiast's Delight! Located Within Prestigious Fairfax County, Just Minutes To 267/Toll Road, Dulles Airport, Fairfax County Parkway and Monroe Park & Ride. Walk To Frying Pan Park For Farmers Market and To Exercise Your Horses.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Office/Den
- Dining room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances
- Attic	- Basement	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Structure Expanded In 1996

- Five Generous-Sized Bedrooms, 3 Full, 2 Half Baths

- Beautifully Refinished Hardwood Floors 2007

- Cook's Kitchen Remodeled 2002

- Inlaid Marble Floor in Kitchen, Professional Stainless Steel Appliances

- WrapAround Porch and 2nd Level Porch Adjacent to Master Bedroom

- New England Carriage House with Open Cathedral Ceilings, Loft and 3 Bays

- Outdoor Courtyard with Flagstone Patio

- Exceptional Lake Sunset View Over Green Pastures

- Four Stall Horse Barn and Fenced-In Bluestone Paddock

- Prestigious Fairfax County Schools: Floris, Carson, Westfield

- Located Just Minutes To Transportation and Amenities

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Welcome To Copper Goose	Fabulous Vistas
Fantastic Kitchen Updates	Private Master Retreat
3-Bay Garage/Carriage Hse	Entertaining Area In Loft

Contact info:

Dee Dawson

Keller Williams Realty/The Gus Anthony Team

dee@finevirginiahomes.com

571-283-1230

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 28, 2010, 12:11pm PST

Virginia Buyers: Closing Costs Paid For Limited Time When Purchasing A Fannie Mae Home

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:50:17 -0800

Buyers: Did You Know...that if you purchase a Fannie Mae-owned foreclosure property eligible for "HomePath" that you could receive up to 3.5% in either closing costs or new appliances? And that is in addition to any HomeBuyer Tax Credits.The good news is that this incentive program runs through May 1, 2010...so you still have time!

I know what you're thinking: Are there any of these homes still available? Actually, yes! After searching our MLS this morning for Active Homepath-eligible properties, there are currently:

* 21 properties listed in Fairfax County priced between $99,900 and $499,900

* 7 properties in Loudoun County priced between $124,900 and $385,000

* 11 properties in Prince William County priced between $75,000 and $325,000

There are indeed restrictions, such as you must be an Owner Occupant (sorry, no investors) and the property purchased must be eligible for the Fannie Mae Homepath Program. Additionally, your Lender may have other restrictions on your loan - so it's best to check with them directly. Here's a website link to more Homepath information.

If you've been actively looking at homes you may know that some foreclosures are selling quickly. So speak with a REALTOR who knows the neighborhoods and who will take you to see and bid on properties early enough to grab a bargain. Many foreclosure homes are selling with multiple offers, so your REALTOR should supply you with comparable sales information on the area so you can be armed to make a strong offer.

I have been able to obtain foreclosure properties for my clients and I'd be happy to assist with this process! If you aren't already represented by a REALTOR, simply call or text me at 571-283-1230, or send an email to Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com.

Happy House Hunting!

WAIT! Don't Throw Out Those Fluorescent Light Bulbs!

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:21:48 -0800

Energy-Conscious, Green-friendly, whatever you want to call it -- we consumers are willing to doing our part.

Of course it's no secret that fluorescent bulbs are much more energy-efficient and last longer than regular light bulbs, and their use will actually save homeowners money. So when we were told that incandescent light bulbs should be replaced with CFL or those curly-fluorescent bulbs, we, like many Americans decided to do our part for the environment. We now have CFLs in our bathrooms, our table lamps and even in our recessed kitchen lights.

BUT what I didn't know is that we cannot throw these bulbs away!! Maybe I'm the last person to know this but these bulbs contain mercury, which could potentially pollute groundwater. Thus, once a bulb burns out it must be disposed of "properly". So how do we do that? Well, if you live in Virginia (Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington County, Prince William County) here's a site that can help you figure out what type of bulb you have and resources for disposal: Know Toxics

And, incidentally if one of these bulbs BREAKS in your home -- please follow the safety guidelines for cleanup: Broken CFL Lightbulbs

Here are more facts on CFL lightbulbs from Energy Star: EnergyStar

While we all want to be more energy-conscious, I think we need to share the information and get the word out. Because throwing the CFL bulbs in the trash will only serve to further harm our environment.

DISCLAIMER: While Dee is a Real Estate Agent, she wants to do her part for the environment. Feel free to contact Dee to share your tips at Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com

Psssst... Have You Heard About Moe's Free Burrito Day?

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:31:54 -0700

That's right! Pass it on...

What: Moe's Southwest Grill in South Riding is having a Free Burrito Day!

When: Saturday October 24, 5pm to 8pm

Where: Moe's in South Riding, 24995 Riding Plaza SR

Why: I don't know...possibly their official anniversary in South Riding?

How: Just go in to the South Riding Moe's and purchase a drink and any burrito is FREE! (I like free...do you like free??)

For confirmation...here's Moe's Facebook Page:

----

Meanwhile, If you are interested in finding out more on living in South Riding or Stone Ridge: either text, email or give us a call and we'll be happy to talk more about our Hometown! Dee Dawson, 571-283-1230, Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com

Wordless Wednesday: Gorgeous View of Virginia Countryside

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 09:29:21 -0700

South Riding Event: 2009 Community-Wide Yard Sale, Saturday May 2, 2009

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 09:02:22 -0700

The South Riding Community-Wide Yard Sale Is This Saturday!

Who: 185 Booths, All South Riding Residents, All Selling Gently-Used Items

What: Community Yard Sale and Business Expo

Where: South Riding Town Green & Parking Lot

When: This Saturday, May 2, 2009, 8:00am to 1:00pm

How: Drive, walk over, take a bicycle, or use your Segway... If you are a Garage-sale-oholic... this is an event you won't want to miss! After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure.

And while you're in South Riding...why not...

....Hop over to Starbucks for a cold (or hot) beverage

....Stop in at the South Riding Inn for some lunch or one of their famous burgers

....Drop by the South Riding WineStyles Store for some wine tasting

....Stop into Panera for some fresh bread

....Opt for a tour of the newest South Riding Homes for sale

If you have any questions about South Riding or Loudoun County in general, feel free to call, text, or email me!

Know Your (School) Boundaries

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:28:15 -0800

Just when you thought you had found the Perfect Home, on the Perfect Lot, and in the Perfect Location...you discover your little ones will be headed to a school that is not the school you had originally thought.

In Northern Virginia, many of the fastest growing areas have boundary changes regularly, particularly in the Elementary Schools. So in a changing world...here are a few local websites to help you determine this year's school boundaries...and next...

Simply put in your address (or the address of the property you are interested in), and the following websites will help you locate the corresponding Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.

Alexandria City Public School Boundary Locator

Arlington Public School Boundary Locator (Map program)

Loudoun County Public School Boundary Locator

Fairfax County Boundary Locator

Prince William County Boundary Locator (note this site is under-going maintenance today)

KEEP IN MIND: You should rely only on the school authorities to give you the correct boundary information.

If all this is too confusing...simply give me a call, send me a text or write me an email, and I'll help in any way I can. ~~ Dee Dawson, 571-283-1230, www.FineVirginiaHomes.com

Fantastic 3 Level Condo Near Fairfax Corner

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:41:57 -0700

This Condo Has It All:

Location, Location: Prime location near Fairfax Corner. Walk to Wegman's and corner bus stop. Less than 5 minutes to shopping, restaurants and movie theatres at Fairfax Corner, Fair Lakes, and Fair Oaks Mall.

Size: Two Master Suites, each located on their own floor. Each suite has it's own walk-in closet, plus private bath with separate shower and tub. 1998 square feet is HUGE for a 2 bedroom. Don't worry about needing a 3rd bedroom, there's a spacious rec room with large storage closet that can be used as an office/den.

Updates: The kitchen has been updated with sleek black granite and stainless steel appliances. You'll also find updated paint, light fixtures and recessed lighting throughout.

Privacy: Situated facing the trees, this condo/townhome is private with treed views from every window.

Price: Affordably priced at $365,000 $357,500

Stop By Today - You'll Want To Move Right In!!

WineStyles in South Riding, Wine-for-even-the-Not-So-Stylish

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:52:03 -0700

WineStyles Is Open in the South Riding Market Plaza! Have You Been There Yet? Whether you are looking for that special bottle to give as a gift, are looking to pick up a white for sipping on the deck, or are just browsing for new favorites: this place is worth a visit!

The Staff Is Friendly And Knowledgeable Even if you don't know exactly what you want, describe to them the occassion and what types of wines you prefer and they'll offer several suggestions in a few price ranges.

Their Wine Selection Is Marketed By Taste Categories Have you ever gone into the huge beverage store and searched the shelves by country, then wine name? Here you can seach for that perfect wine under the categories such as "Crisp" or "Bold". Because Chardonnays can differ...

They Have Saturday And Sunday Wine Tastings YUP! No need to drive out to the wineries to taste new selections. Simply stop by on Saturday or Sunday between 1pm and 4pm.

There's Even A New Woman's BookClub Starting In September Imagine getting together with friends to meet, discuss and taste a new wine variety each month. And how can I technically call myself a wino if I don't know all the wines?

And lastly - Check out their $10 Table where you can purchase 6 bottles for $60 - dare to try something new.

South Riding WineStyles is located at 25031 Riding Plaza, Chantilly, VA 20152. Phone: 703-327-5052

South Riding Friday Night Concerts Are Back! ...Starting This Weekend

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:15:51 -0700

When my husband and I moved to the South Riding community in 2003, we had heard plenty of buzz about it, but we didn't realize how social our new community actually is. South Riding has an Excellent Entertainment Committee, and they do everything you can imagine to get folks together on a regular basis. This has earned South Riding the right to advertise as "Your New HomeTown".

South Riding, when complete, will consist of 6000+ homes with 4 outdoor pools, tennis, basketball and even volleyball courts, plenty of playgrounds and 2 shopping centers with over a dozen eateries to choose from. We have 3 Elementary Schools in the neighborhood and the High School opened just 3 short years ago. All the homes in South Riding are less than 15 years old and many are still under construction. Community events include holiday parades, Easter Egg Hunt, Yearly Celebrate South Riding and Yearly Octoberfest, Summer Dive-in Movies, Weekly Farmers Market, 2 VERY LARGE Community Garage Sales & MORE. Residents can participate in few or all events -- what you do is up to you.

Tonight (Friday June 27) begins the community's Friday Night Summer Concert Series. Listen to local bands playing while enjoying the warm summer breezes, your feet in the cool grass and chitchatting with your neighbors. The concerts are free to residents and located on the Town Green. The music is mellow, the company is friendly, and even the kids love to dance and twirl till they drop. Grab a takeout pizza from Dominos or a Burger from the South Riding Inn and enjoy your dinner on the lawn. You can probably even walk home!

South Riding's Summer Concert Series runs from June through August and culminates with the ever popular: Battle of the Bands. Click Here for a list of the next few week's entertainment.

So be sure to come down: grab your cooler, bring your lawn chair and have a good time: your neighbors will be there.

For more information about the South Riding neighborhood or available homes in South Riding, give me a call at 571-283-1230 or send an email to Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com. I'll be happy to show you around.

What Can I Learn From This Car Dealer??

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:34:48 -0700

These folks absolutely deserve my business, and yours: Harrisonburg Mitsubishi!

Most recently, we set out to purchase a new Mitsubishi as a graduation present for #1 Son. I loathe going into a dealership to check out cars, even if only to drive them. Mostly because the sales people become overly-aggressive and then the Sales Manager does too. So we end up spending too much time - only to feel brow-beaten and walk out anyway. So guess what: I send my husband.

At Harrisonburg Mitsubishi, they treated my husband and my son with nothing but respect. They wanted our business. They even called my 18 year old son "Sir" several times. Sure, the car was still expensive, but they told the truth, helped us understand the pricing, and worked to give my son what he wanted. And they did it all very Respectfully. Kudos to them!

So - what can I learn from this experience? It's the GOLDEN RULE. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Yes, car dealers have awful reputations...as do many Real Estate Agents.

Think of how many folks out there simply do not want to work with a Real Estate Agent. They find some Agents agressive and less than truthful. We can be assertive without aggression. And we need to break the stigma attached to our profession -- because it's a generalization that is simply not true for everyone.

OH! And if you live in Northern Virginia/Maryland/DC area and are looking to buy a car, consider giving these folks a try...it's worth the drive.

Note that I am in no way affliiated with Harrisonburg Mitsubishi nor am I receiving anything from them in return for this post -- I just want to give credit where it is due.

A Quick Glance at The South Riding Real Estate Market

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 10:36:50 -0800

Want to know what's happening within the South Riding Real Estate market?

Here's Where We Are Today: The following chart details what's currently available and on the market

If you're a Buyer: the good news is that South Riding prices have rebounded to 2004/2005 levels AND there are some great homes and great values out there.

If you're a Seller: you can still move up to your Dream Home and get a great deal. Yes, your current house is worth less than a few years ago...although you are probably moving to a home that's also worth less than a few years ago... it usually works out ok. (note -- you need to have some equity in your current home for this to be an option for you)

To See Where We've Been: Here are the price statistics through 12/31/2007:

All of South Riding, All Type Homes (Single Family, Townhouse, Condo), Both New & Resale
6% Price Decrease within past 12 months
Days on market increase from 77 to 83 Days
Approx 4.7 months inventory available
Approx 14% of all available properties are REO/Foreclosures

Single Family Homes (Resale)
Avg 2007 Price: $602,776
12% Price Decrease
Avg days on market: 108 Days
Approx 3.5 months inventory

Townhomes (Resale)
Avg 2007 Price: $409,444
8% Price Decrease
Avg days on market: 76 Days
Approx 3.8 months inventory

Condos (Resale)
Avg 2007 Price: $294,718
10.5% Price Decrease
Avg days on market: 85 Days
Approx 4.5 months inventory

Disclaimer: Keep in mind the above data is compiled from MRIS/MLS and represents all sales from all Brokers. Data compiled for 20152 zip code and within South Riding boundaries. All data values are approximate and are not guaranteed.

To find out more about our market, or what's available in South Riding or anywhere in our Northern Virginia area, call me directly at 571-283-1230 or send me an email to Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.

Yes Virginia, There Are Condos in South Riding Too!

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:30:48 -0800

Nestled within the community of South Riding are the "Lakeside at South Riding" Condominiums. YES! There are condos available for purchase in South Riding! These are an affordable and low-maintenance option for many buyers, whether they are first-time buyers, move-up buyers or anyone considering down-sizing.

The "Lakeside at South Riding" condominiums are beautifully situated around South Riding's pond/fountain area, and many with pond views. The condos are single-level and you can choose from 2 Bedroom/1 Bath, 2 Bedroom/2 Bath or 2 Bedroom + Den/2 Bath units. Most have balconies, gas fireplaces or garages. Best of all, these condos are within walking distance to Bloom Grocery, Starbucks, & The South Riding Inn.

Currently there are 8 Lakeside resale condos on the market, ranging in price from $269,900 to $307,000. (*Based on units available in MRIS from all Brokers). The Condo fees run approximately $230 per/month, and fees include exterior maintenance, water/sewer and trash, as well as the use of all community amenities (excluding golf).

AND... If you're looking for the convenience and low-maintenance lifestyle of a condo in a multi-level home, check out the "Amberlea at South Riding", which is a series of townhome/condos. The current Amberlea resale units range in price from $309,900 to $374,900 for a 3-level, 3 Bedroom or 4 Bedroom unit, with either 1 or 2 car attached garages. (*Based on units available in MRIS from all Brokers).

South Riding's numerous amenities include: 4 Swimming Pools, Tennis Courts, Sport Courts (soccer, basketball, volleyball) and several neighborhood playgrounds and parks. 2 neighborhood Shopping Plazas host Giant and Bloom grocery stores, along with numerous restaurants such as South Riding Inn, Ruby Tuesdays, Panera Bread, Firkin Hound and more...plus a new neighborhood Home Depot is under construction and scheduled to open in 1^st quarter 2008.

South Riding has long-been known for it's community "HomeTown" feel, and community events in South Riding are plentiful: Octoberfest Celebration, Halloween Parade, Santa Parade, Celebrate South Riding, Twice-Annual Community Yard Sale, Block Parties and even weekly Summer Concerts on the Town Green.

If you'd like to view any of the available condo units, or any of the many other townhomes and single family homes within South Riding - contact me directly at 571-283-1230 or via email: Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com. I'll be happy to show you how you can make living in South Riding a reality.

2710 Floris Lane, Oak Hill, VA 20171

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 10:46:32 -0800

YOU WON'T FIND MANY PROPERTIES LIKE THIS IN FAIRFAX COUNTY!

This 4 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath, Brick-Front Colonial Home is situated on nearly 1/2 acre, and the lot is level and backs to mature trees for privacy.

Inside you'll find an open, flowing floorplan. There's a separate Formal Living Room and Formal Dining Room with wood floors, and the back of the home has a cozy Family Room and large, updated eat-in Kitchen.

Built in 1993, all rooms are bright and sunny with numerous windows. The four upstairs bedrooms are generously-sized, especially the Master Suite with his & hers closets, a private sitting area, and private Master Bathroom w/separate shower and tub.

This home is located within a block of Fairfax County's Frying Pan Park, with horses, farm animals and a farmer's market. Plus its conveniently located in Western Fairfax County, within 2.5 miles to the Dulles Toll Rd (Rte 267) and 2.5 miles to Monroe Park & Ride.

And don't forget the Top-Rated Fairfax County Schools, currently zoned for Floris Elementary, Rachel Carson Middle School, and Westfield High School.

Currently priced at $725,000. Visit the 2710 Floris Lane Website to find more information or to view more photos.

To view this wonderful property in person -- contact Dee Dawson at RE/MAX Allegiance directly at 571-283-1230, or via email: Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com, I'd be happy to show you around!

Two New Eateries Open In South Riding

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:00:47 -0700

THEY ARE FINALLY HERE! Its The Long-Awaited Opening of 2 New Eateries in South Riding!

South Riding's Panera Bread is now open for business. Panera Bread is located in the Market Square at the corner of Loudoun County Parkway and Freedom Drive. Well-known for its yummy baked goods, soups and salads, you can even grab a nosh as you're leaving South Riding for your morning commute because Panera Opens at 6am.

South Riding's Ruby Tuesday opened for business Wednesday of this week. Ruby Tuesday is also located in the South Riding Market Square and is now open for Dinner starting at 4:30pm. This family-friendly restaurant will be giving the other restaurant-choices in our neighborhood a run for their money.

If you get a chance to stop by either of these Restaurants, please drop me a line and let me know how well they compare with others in the area.

NAR Wants Your Face

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:25:12 -0700

NAR is asking REALTORS® to submit photos of themselves (headshots-only) to add to their centennial mosaic project. The project is called "The Face of Real Estate for 100 Years" and will include a mosaic of REALTOR® faces arranged to represent the REALTOR® membership mark.

You can upload your photo at TheFaceOfRealEstate.com website, OR photos will also be taken at the NAR booth in Las Vegas at the 2007 REALTORS® Conference.

Be sure to have your NRIDs Number handy -- mine took a minute or two for me to find...

Things To Do In Loudoun County: Fall Family Fun

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 11:54:12 -0700

Are you looking for some Fall Family Fun?

Then look no further than....Cox Farms!

Cox Farms in Centreville is holding their Annual Fall Festival. There's loads to do: Hayrides, Pumpkins, Giant Slides, Rope Swings, Farm Animals and more...

Bring your family and enjoy everything this fall season has to offer.

Cox Farms in Centreville is located at the intersection of Braddock Road and Pleasant Valley Road...Just before the Fairfax County/Loudoun County line. Cox Farms Fall Festival runs Daily from September 22 through November 4. Hours of operation are 10am to 6pm.

More Information and Directions can be found on the Cox Farms website. Enjoy!!

Wanna Know The Best Part?...The final few days of the Festival are PUMPKIN MADNESS. Leftover pumpkins are squished, mashed, dropped and hurled. What a blast!

Cox Farms photos

Loudoun County Residents: Water Restrictions Now In Effect

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 12:34:08 -0700

Anyone living in Loudoun County this summer knows we've been waiting for rain...and waiting...and waiting...

As of today (Tuesday, Oct 2), The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors has declared a Water Shortage Emergency -- along with mandatory water restrictions for customers of LCSA in eastern Loudoun County.

Effective immediately, mandatory restrictions are as follows:

Watering of lawns and landscaping is prohibited (with the exception of using 3-gallon containers or for vegetation planted since 9/1/02)
Washing vehicles is prohibited (with the exception of using a commercial washing facility or bucket/container under 3 gallons)
Washing streets, driveways, paved areas and buildings is prohibited (with the exception of using 3 gallon containers)
Operating ornamental fountains is prohibited
Filling swimming pools and wading pools is prohibited (unless already more than 3/4 full)
Serving drinking water in Restaurants is prohibited (unless specifically requested by patrons)

Be sure to purchase a few 3-gallon containers now... Violators could be fined up to $500 for each offense AND repeat violators could have their water supply cut off for up to 5 days.

More information is available on the Loudoun County Government Website and the LCSA website.

In the meantine, THINK RAIN!

Drive-Through Settlements!

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 23:57:18 -0700

Drive-Through Settlements!?!

OK -- I just made that up. By why can't it happen?

What's better than sitting in a local coffee shop in the mornings sipping your latte while perusing emails & blogs? No time for that simple-pleasure? No problem -- you can use the local drive-through window at Starbucks. Is your banking done almost exclusively at the drive-through window? Why bother to park, get out and go in for routine tasks? And how many times do you use the drive-through car wash?

Today everything is geared toward making our lives easier. The drive-through experience isn't new, of course. I remember drive-through beverage-centers when I was in college (brew through?) How long have we been ordering fast food this way? And of course there's also the drive-through photo window...the drive-through prescription window...even drive-through dry-cleaning.

I'm all about better, faster & smarter, and the settlement process is now relatively smooth & easy as documents are uploaded, downloaded, and passed around with email & fax. My favorite Settlement Company now presents the Buyer with a CD containing documents at settlement, instead of a huge folder of papers.

So in the spirit of convenience, here's what a Drive-Through Settlement could look like...

((NOTE: Sally Seller has already signed. Agents, Settlement Company & Attorneys have already completed all paperwork.))

Ben Buyer has a certain time-frame to use the Drive-Through Window. Once there, Ben presents his drivers license to Pam Processor at the window
Ben is handed a Tablet PC where he places his thumb for fingerprint recognition...and of course an outside camera has already captured his smiling face, along with the make, model and license plate number of Ben's car
Once recognition is complete, Ben signs the Tablet PC -- which then duplicates his signature on every form
Pam takes the Tablet PC back and happily hands over Ben's house-keys, along with a CD of all the forms Ben has just signed & agreed to, plus a complimentary bottle of champagne. Congratulations Ben! You now officially own your home!

OK... So we have the technology but...Could it work?? Any other conveniences that might change the Home-Buying process?

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Taking this drive-through idea to extremes, I have a great idea for streamlining showings for clients...)

Everybody Say Hi To Sarah Martin...Hi Sarah!

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:31:05 -0700

Hi There! I'm just another newbie myself with a few localism blogs...

I thought I'd invite a colleague to share this newbie-experience:

Sarah Martin with Martin & Moore Realty in Salisbury MD.

Sarah is smart (she started her own brokerage) and fun and a true professional. I know we'll see more of her here!

Home Depot Is Coming To South Riding!

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 09:50:34 -0700

You might even drive by it everyday...That big empty space where there once was land and grassy meadow...where you used to be able to sit outside the South Riding Caribou Coffee and chat in peace...or sit in the evenings outside the Firkin Hound Restaurant with a glass of wine staring into darkness... what is that big ugly structure going up along Loudoun County Parkway in South Riding?

The great news is that the big ugly structure will soon be a Home Depot! Hurray for the Orange & White and our Contractor-Buddy Cartoon!

But let's face it...a monstrous-looking store is not very aesthetically-pleasing. OK, so what will this new Home Depot bring to our sleepy community?

**Jobs...that's always a good thing

**More cars and contractor vans -- not always a good thing. Especially on Route 50...especially at all hours of the day and night

**A place for my Contractor-hubby to find supplies... 138,500 sq feet worth of supplies...good or bad, that will keep him busy and with his seemingly-endless supply of honey-do items (not all for me, of course)

**A new generation of DIY-ers...South Riding is now over 10 years old and many of these homes will start to need renovations. So ok, this could indeed keep the community spiffed-up...which keeps property values high

** Like it or not...It's coming. Sometimes we just can't fight progress.

I can't say when exactly the new Home Depot will be operational, although I'm told 1st quarter 2008. Keep an eye on my blog for updated information and pics. And you can see more details about what's going on at the South Riding Market Square website.

As always, I would be pleased to assist with your home sale or purchase in South Riding or in any area of Loudoun County. Simply contact me via cell at 571-283-1230 or send me an email Dee@FineVirginiaHomes.com. If I'm up I'll answer!

Loudoun County Makes 55+ Even More Affordable For Qualifying Seniors

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:15:42 -0700

Take Note! Loudoun County is currently accepting applications for adults 55 and over to participate in the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program. 14 units will be available in the resort-like Potomac Green community in Ashburn, one of Loudoun County's premiere Active-Adult communities.

Who Is Qualified?:
Applicants must be first-time homebuyers, or must not have owned a home in the last three years
Widowed or divorced may qualify
Primary applicant must be over 55 years old with no dependents under the age of 19
Credit eligibility and income limits apply

The homes available through the progam feature: 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a first-floor master suite and a 2-car garage. The Potomac Green community features popular resident-gatherings such as barbeques and block parties, community events, and recreational amenities as well as easy access to shopping, restaurants, health care and other services. More information on the Potomac Green Community can be found at: http://www.delwebb.com

For more information about whether You qualify: Contact the ADU Program of the Department of Family Services, 703-737-8043 or visit http://www.loudoun.gov/.

If you'd like me to accompany you on a private tour of the Potomac Green Community, please give me a call and we'll set up a time that's convenient for you. My direct number is 571-283-1230 and I'm always available to answer my clients questions and concerns.

Rare Opportunity For Brick-Front Home Situated on Nearly 1/2 Acre

Dee Dawson ~ Northern Virginia Real Estate (Keller Williams) — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 14:16:40 -0700

Dee Dawson | Northern Virginia Fine Homes/Envirian | 571-283-1230

Floris Lane, Oak Hill, VA

Lovely Brick-Front Home on RARE .43 Acre Lot

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $749,500

Year Built	1993
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.43 acres
HOA/Maint	$25 per month

DESCRIPTION

Are You Tired Of Seeing Grand Homes on Small Lots? This Home Has It All!! Built In 1993 And Situated On .43 Acre, This Home is Bright And Cheerful And ready For Its New Owners. Plus, It's Located Just A Short Walk To Frying Park Park & With Top-Rated Fairfax County Schools.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Dining room
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Basement	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Charmer

Home Was Built in 1993 on .43 Acre Lot

Updated Eat-In Kitchen

Cozy Family Room W/Gas Fireplace

Formal Living Rm & Dining Rm

Huge Master Bedroom W/ His & Hers Walk-In Closets

Expansive Deck Overlooking Level Yard With Mature Trees

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Dee Dawson

Northern Virginia Fine Homes/Envirian

571-283-1230

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Aug 30, 2007, 1:07pm PDT