Golden Oldies #28 (December 31, 2011) - 12/31/11 02:22 PM
Some of the best of the best from long ago!  Thanks to Russel for digging through the archives of AR and pulling up these old, but not forgotten posts  Happy New Year to ALL!
Via Russel Ray, Southern California home inspector based in San Diego (Real estate, photography, marketing, music, history & more!):
   
Golden Oldies #28 (December 31, 2011) 

Blogging makes you youngerJune 12, 2009Matt Listro, National Credit Fixers; East Harford, ConnecticutBlogging makes you younger! It's true — try it and see for yourself. Blogging puts you in touch with the world around you — scratch that — blogging makes you a part … (1 comments)

Happy New Year! - 12/30/11 10:03 AM
Happy New Year!

 
As we prepare to ring in 2012, we at Ask Gina & Company wanted to take the time to Thank You for making our 2011 such a successful and meaningful year! We were able to accomplish many goals over the last 12 months and many of them would not have been possible without the loyalty of our clients, the dedication of our staff, and the love & support of our family members who give just as much, if not more, than we do as Realtors.
Our wish for you this upcoming year is the same as … (8 comments)

Is Now The Time To Buy An Investment Property? - 12/29/11 08:42 AM
I personally have "purchase two investment properties" in my business plan for 2012! I am just finalizing the first one now....it has never been a better time to purchase!
Via Herb Baldwin (Re/Max Genesis, Mt. Gilead, OH):

Herb Baldwin, e-Pro, Realtor, CDPE herb@herbsells.com
RE/MAX Genesis, Mt. Gilead (Morrow County) Ohio, Helping people realize their dream of home ownership in Morrow County (45 minutes north of Columbus) Ohio.
To view any home in Morrow County, call me now at 419-947-4004
See all central Ohio homes for sale at:www.herbsells.com
   
          SEARCH the Central Ohio MLS
… (0 comments)

Are you taking life one day at a time? - 12/29/11 07:57 AM
Focus on today.  It is all that we have, really.  We can draw on lessons of the past and look to our goals in the future - just make sure we live in the present.  One day at a time.
Via Bill Fields (All Star Coaching):
There are two days in every week about which we should not worry. Two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension.
One of these days is yesterday, with its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control. All the money in the world … (4 comments)

Beautiful Inside and Out! 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn - 12/28/11 06:54 PM
… (3 comments)

$339,900 for Three Levels of Fantastic Space! You Must Tour 46513 Lynnhaven Square, Sterling - 12/28/11 06:49 PM
… (0 comments)

No Need to Share Walls! Awesome Single Family at Great Value! Welcome to 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling - 12/28/11 06:46 PM
… (0 comments)

MORE CLIENTS OPT FOR 15 YEAR MORTGAGE - 12/27/11 04:42 PM
With rates super low the 15 year mortgage becomes a viable option - increase your equity faster and live a debt free life sooner!  What a great situation to be in.  One of the great side effects of the current interest rate market.
Via Right Trac Financial Group, Inc:
“More Clients Opt for 15 Year Mortgage”
I have been in the mortgage business a long time. I have never seen the numbers so dramatic. When I review the numbers with clients and show the dollars that can be saved doing a 15 year mortgage compared to 20-25-30 mortgages.
Of course, the saving are … (0 comments)

Don't be sad be happy! - 12/27/11 04:34 PM
There are some great ideas to increase the sunlight.  With many people having low vitamin D levels - these are just a few ways to increase levels while in the home.  Solar tubes are my favorite - cost effective and great boost of light!
Via Hillary Gibbons Wyss (Roo Solutions):

The month of January comes with mixed blessings. Things begin to settle down after the holidays and I get back into the grove with work and the family routine.  But then there are days like today when the rain won’t stop and I am chilled to the bone wishing for a … (2 comments)

Another Successful Short Sale SOLD! - 12/26/11 09:54 PM
Another Successful Short Sale SOLD!

Are you a home seller with financial concerns over your home? Don’t panic, we can help! We have successfully navigated the short sale process for countless clients, including the sellers located at 5340 Holmes Run Parkway, #510, Alexandria, and we can do the same for you. Contact us today to unlock the possibilities.
Description:
This is the life! This diamond in the rough unit in the fabulous Pavilion on the Park is located in the heart of Alexandria and has everything you have been searching for! Come home to this charming one bedroom, 1 bath … (4 comments)

Everything on your Wish List! 47433 Middle Bluff Place, Sterling - 12/26/11 09:06 AM
Breathtaking Brick Front Home in Beautiful Rivercrest! … (5 comments)

$339,900 for this Fabulous Brick Front Home Located at 46513 Lynnhaven Square, Sterling - 12/26/11 09:04 AM
Superb Brick Front Garage Townhome! … (2 comments)

Over 2,500sqft of Glorious Space in Ashburn! Welcome Home to 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn - 12/26/11 09:01 AM
Charming Colonial Brick Front Home! … (0 comments)

$384,000 For a Single Family? You Bet! Discover all 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling, has to offer! - 12/26/11 08:58 AM
Single Family Home at Townhouse Price! … (0 comments)

Amazing Ashburn Rental! Come Home to 23374 Virginia Rose Place, Ashburn - 12/26/11 08:55 AM
Live in the Lap of Luxury! Cable & Internet Included in Rent! … (0 comments)

Our Christmas Wish - 12/24/11 03:50 PM
Our Christmas Wish

As we head into the home stretch of the holiday season, we at Ask Gina & Company would like to wish you and yours a very merry, blessed, and safe Christmas weekend!
 
There's More to Christmas...
 
There's more, much more to Christmas
 
Than candle-light and cheer;
 
It's the spirit of sweet friendship
 
That brightens all the year;
 
It's thoughtfulness and kindness,
 
It's hope reborn again,
 
For peace, for understanding
 
And for goodwill to men!
 
-Author Unknown
 
 
Merry Christmas!
 
Gina Tufano with Keller Williams Realty … (2 comments)

Mortgage Fees Would Rise Under Payroll Tax Cut Deal - 12/20/11 12:25 PM
Excellent post about potential rises in mortgage fees.  It is important to educate ourselves about all of the changes in the marketplace so that we can point our clients in the right direction.
Via Lenn Harley, Real Estate Broker, Virginia & Maryland (Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate):
Mortgage Fees Would Rise Under Payroll Tax Cut Deal SMOKE AND MIRRORS AGAIN ON CAPITOL HILL.  Read more HERE.
If you're a real estate agent, a real estate broker, a loan officer, a home buyer or a home owner,
YOU HAVE A TARGET ON YOUR BACK.
Congress has done it again.  … (2 comments)

Equator Task Tips 2 - 12/20/11 12:17 PM
For those of us working inside the Equator system - whether it is a short sale or a foreclosure - here are some great tips to help ease the process!  All the best in 2012!
Via Equator LLC (Equator):
When agents receive tasks on Equator, lenders will make requests to the agent through “Tasks”. Your lender can manually trigger a task,  or re-open a task if your work is incomplete.  Tasks can also be set to open on a pre-defined schedule, such as monthly status reports.  Here are some more tips and tricks to help you with working on your tasks:
 
… (0 comments)

Funny Christmas signs - 12/20/11 12:15 PM
Tis the season!  Very cute posting of creative and humorus Christmas signs to keep us in the spirit.  Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!  All the best and much success in 2012!
Via Sharon Lee (Sharon Lee's Virtual Assistance):
I thought this was a great time to share these following on the heels of the reblog I did of my friend Roger Mucci's post "WHO STARTED CHRISTMAS." Whether you choose to believe it or not. Christ is real and died for YOU and ME. PERIOD.


… (5 comments)

'Tis The Season To Share: Shameless Plug - 12/20/11 11:16 AM
Please feel free to share if you love it as much as I do! To those who know me, you understand how immensely proud I am of my three children. I am in awe of their ability to challenge, motivate, and inspire me on a daily basis. Today I would like to share the musical talents of my son, Andrew. His passion is contagious and I am so impressed of his ability to write, play, and sing original music with the dedication of a seasoned pro. I hope you enjoy it as much as his proud mama does! … (6 comments)

Awe-Inspiring Home Located at 19218 Wiggum Square, Leesburg - 12/20/11 10:02 AM
… (2 comments)

This Home is a Knock Out! Come Home to 47433 Middle Bluff Place, Sterling - 12/20/11 09:57 AM
… (1 comments)

It's a Steal! Price Reduced on this Fabulous Home Located at 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling - 12/20/11 09:41 AM
… (1 comments)

Bring Your Boat! Oversized Garage Is Icing On The Cake! - 12/19/11 08:35 PM
… (2 comments)

Spacious Floorplan for Easy Living! - 12/19/11 08:30 PM
… (1 comments)

You'll Love the Location! Overlooks Holmes Run Park! - 12/19/11 08:25 PM
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"BUYERS REMORSE" AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT.....AND DEFEAT IT! - 12/19/11 08:20 PM
Every buyer - and many sellers too - experience buyer's remorse to some degree.  It is totally natural!  There are ways to help them deal with it along the way.  One thing we do is call the client the night the offer was written to make sure that they are doing well and ask if they have any questions....
Via Paula I Hathaway, Senior Vice President, LBA (Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate):
"BUYERS REMORSE" AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT.....AND DEFEAT IT!
I spoke to an agent today who is going through losing a deal because her buyer is having second thoughts....Buyers Remorse is … (1 comments)

Within Your Reach! New Low Price! - 12/19/11 08:05 PM
Within Your Reach! New Low Price!

Wrap up your holiday shopping with this awesome single family home at a townhouse price located at 21731 Labroke Grove Court, Sterling! Proudly offered at $384,000.
 
The magic begins instantly as you fall in love with the mature trees and covered porch. Once inside you will find a tastefully decorated two story foyer accentuated with neutral paint and gleaming hardwoods that usher you throughout the first floor. As you make your way into the sun filled, spacious family room, you will immediately discover a fabulous 3 sided-fireplace! Next up is the wonderful dining … (0 comments)

How to Size up a Home in 8 Minutes or Less - 12/19/11 10:23 AM
Go with your gut.  As a buyer, you know the minute you walk in the door that you don't like the house.  Whether it is the yard, the main layout, etc - no need to hang around.  Those are things that cannot be changed so don't waste your precious time - done, done, on to the next one!
Via Brian Block -- Northern Virginia & D.C. Real Estate (RE/MAX Allegiance, Managing Broker/Branch Vice President):
You should take your time when searching for a home. 
That's worth repeating:  You should take your time when searching for a home. 
If such an important project is … (0 comments)

Top Five Buyer Questions that I Can't Answer - 12/19/11 10:20 AM
Great post!  As a licensed professional there are times when Equal Housing prohibits us from answering questions.  And really, there are good reasons for this.  I am happy to be the source of the source though and point you in the right direction where you can draw your own conclusions.
Via Cindy Westfall ABR,GRI Your Tualatin & Portland Metro REALTOR® (Prudential NW Properties, Portland Metro & Suburbs Oregon):
Top Five Buyer Questions that I Can't Answer

There are times, when I'm asked certain questions from buyers that if I didn't have my REALTOR® hat on, I could probably give you my opinion, … (0 comments)

Using Custom Google Maps To Help Your Localism Posts - 12/19/11 10:18 AM
This is some great information for how to improve your localism posts!  Google + Active Rain = total awesomeness.  Add to that FREE and you have blogging nirvana.
Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):
Using Custom Google Maps To Help Your Localism Posts If your posts are written solely to local residents who already know the area inside and out, then mapping an event isn't important.  If on the other hand you're blogging about a subject  that may involve a lot of customized information, then taking advantage of another FREE Google service may be … (2 comments)

It's Your Lucky Day! Back on Market! 46513 Lynnhaven Square, Sterling - 12/19/11 10:05 AM
It's not every day you get a second chance, so carpe diem and schedule your showing before it is going, going, GONE!
Superb Brick Front Garage Townhome!
… (3 comments)

Start Your New Year in Style! Welcome Home to 20414 Cliftons Point Street, Sterling - 12/19/11 10:02 AM
Stunning 5 Bedroom with Basement and Wet Bar! … (0 comments)

Under Contract! 19218 Wiggum Square, Leesburg - 12/18/11 09:38 PM
It didn't take long for this immaculate home to go under contract! If you missed your chance, no worries! We can help you discover your very own breathtaking home!
Come Home to Elegance with this Lansdowne on the Potomac Stunner!
… (2 comments)

Have Your Cake and Eat It Too! 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling - 12/18/11 09:32 PM
Single Family Home at Townhouse Price! … (0 comments)

Come Home to the Courts and Ridges of Ashburn! 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn - 12/18/11 09:30 PM
Charming Colonial Brick Front Home! … (2 comments)

Rent Reduced! $2,999 with Internet & Cable Included! Welcome to 23374 Virginia Rose Place, Ashburn - 12/18/11 09:25 PM
Live in the Lap of Luxury! Cable & Internet Included in Rent!
… (0 comments)

Simple Steps to Get Found Now on Twitter - 12/15/11 01:36 PM
Do you tweet?  Are you on Twitter?  Doing everything you can to optimize your profile? Here are some simple steps to get found and reach out on Twitter.  Thanks!
Via Rebekah Radice Colorado Springs FHA Loan 203k, VA Mortgage, Loan Pre-Approval (Benchmark Mortgage, Colorado Springs FHA, VA, Pre-Approval):
Twitter can be an amazing addition to your social media arsenal and a great way for friends and fans of your brand to find and connect with you.
Learning how to use Twitter effectively takes time and a willingness to understand this "texting to the masses" social site. It can and will grow … (3 comments)

Give Back and Sleep Like a Baby! - 12/14/11 03:30 PM
Give Back and Sleep Like a Baby!

Isn’t Christmas an exciting time of year? Can’t you just hear the carolers singing, Santa belting out a hearty laugh, and the cash registers cha-chinging? We sure can! But, this time of year also reminds us that there are those less fortunate just waiting for someone to take notice. Waiting for someone to show what the Christmas spirit is REALLY about.
With that in mind, Ask Gina & Company is collecting donations of canned food and new toys to be donated to LINK, an association of 13 churches in Sterling and Herndon which … (1 comments)

Must Tour This Impressive Rivercrest Home Located at 47433 Middle Bluff Place, Sterling - 12/14/11 11:08 AM
Breathtaking Brick Front Home in Beautiful Rivercrest! … (3 comments)

Get Into Rivercrest for Less! Discover All 20414 Cliftons Point Street Sterling, Has To Offer - 12/14/11 11:06 AM
Stunning 5 Bedroom with Basement and Wet Bar! … (0 comments)

Hurry! This One Won't Last at This Great New Price! Welcome Home to 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn - 12/14/11 11:03 AM
Charming Colonial Brick Front Home! … (0 comments)

Dream Big! Affordable Single Family Home Located at 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling - 12/14/11 11:00 AM
Single Family Home at Townhouse Price! … (0 comments)

The First Impression Is The Only Impression That Really Counts... - 12/14/11 05:08 AM
It is not just a cliche - you really only do get one chance to make a first impression!  It is always important to update a property's curb appeal when on the market.  If no one comes through the door, the house will never sell.
Via Phyllis Lerner, Realtor - Broker / Owner - Westchester County NY (William Raveis Legends Realty Group LLC):
Believe it or not... it does not matter much how good the interior of your home looks... potential home buyers have already judged your home before they step through the front door.
Unfortunately, you will not get a second chance to make a really … (3 comments)

Feel free to share with your agents and clients..... - 12/14/11 04:59 AM
Some good, positive sentiments to get the day started....one of my favorites: "Remember that overnight success usually takes 15 years."  So true!  No one watches the hard work and sacrafice though....
Via Jay McHugh, CBR, CDPE, CRS, CyberStar, (RE/MAX Unlimited):
 
21 Keys to a Happy Life “taken from my life experiences” 
 
 
1)    Compliment three people every day…try to do this at each food setting…
2)    Watch a sunrise.
3)    Be the first to say "Hello."
4)    Live beneath your means.
5)    Treat everyone as you want to be treated.
6)    Never give up on anybody; miracles happen.
7)    Forget … (3 comments)

HOADues, Homeowner's Association Dues - 12/13/11 10:32 PM
Excellent information about how a Homeowner's Association or a Condominium Community can complicate a short sale.  When there is a delinquent balance, it adds another layer to the complex onion that is a pre forclosure property.
Via Kamal Salim (Keller Williams Properties):
When it comes to negotiating short sales, every day is a new challenge. One of the recent challenges we?ve come across is high HOA or Condo Association balances .    During our initial meeting with the Seller, we always ask whether they are current with their Association payments, and if not how far behind are they? This is asked so we can … (0 comments)

Real Estate Marketing Plans: Most Effective Marketing of 2011 - 12/13/11 02:08 PM
Failure to plan is planning to fail!  Is your business plan in place for 2012 yet?  What do you have down for marketing?  You can only achieve big goals if you know what they are!
Via ActiveRain Corp.:
Real Estate Marketing Plans  
Do you have your real estate marketing plans for 2012 ready?
 

 
With SO MANY alternatives for real estate marketing plans, are you confused on what to do in 2012?
So as you develop your 2012 real estate marketing plans, here is some great food for thought:
ActiveRain, the largest blogging platform and professional social network in real … (0 comments)

Marketing your home in the Winter: December 2011 Challenge - 12/13/11 01:32 PM
Selling your property in the winter months can be challenging.  Here is a list of items that will help you sell faster and for more money - something every seller wants!
Via Jenifer Owens (Bozeman Montana Real Estate .net):
Winter Sales Tips
Need to sell your home during the winter months?  Don’t despair.  I know there are many real estate agents that suggest giving a listing some rest during the short winter days, but here’s what it could mean for your listing:
        If staged right on the outside, it can stand out amongst other homes that look drab and dreary

… (3 comments)

Price Slashed! Fantastic Value in Ashburn - 12/12/11 02:47 PM
Price Slashed! Fantastic Value in Ashburn

 
Start the new year with a new home! It’s time to get off the fence and into this beautiful brick colonial located at 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn!
As you enter, you are greeted with a fabulous two-story foyer in a warm, neutral color and lovely hardwood floors. The hardwood floors continue throughout the first floor including your new formal living room with gorgeous crown molding and the separate dining room which basks in natural light. Next you will find the spacious kitchen with granite counter tops, double ovens, and a center island … (2 comments)

Dulles Town Center Mall Extended Hours - 12/10/11 03:03 PM
Dulles Town Center Mall Extended Hours

It happens every year. The holidays sneak up on us and we are left scrambling to get our shopping complete! But, lucky for us, the Dulles Town Center Mall knows we could use more time in a day and grants us just that with extended holiday hours. Times vary, but you can find some days when the mall opens as early as 7am and close as late as midnight! I don’t know about you, but I fully intend to take advantage of this much needed extra time!
To get your complete list of hours, … (0 comments)

Awesome Brick Front Colonial with Basement! 20362 Flushing Meadows Court, Ashburn - 12/09/11 08:20 PM
… (1 comments)

Don't Settle! Check Out This Charming Single Family Home for Townhouse Price! 21731 Ladbroke Grove Court, Sterling - 12/09/11 08:18 PM
… (1 comments)

Open House This Weekend 12/11/2011! 19218 Wiggum Square, Leesburg - 12/09/11 08:12 PM
… (0 comments)

Under Contract! 5340 Holmes Run Parkway # 510, Alexandria - 12/09/11 08:08 PM
… (0 comments)

Under Contract! 46513 Lynnhaven Square, Sterling - 12/09/11 08:00 PM
… (1 comments)

Why Do Short Sales Take So Long? - 12/08/11 01:47 PM
A great summary on the biggest question out there when it comes to short sales:  Why do they take so long??  Instead of 4-6 weeks, we have 6-10 months!  Just what causes this delay?
Via Mike Linkenauger Short Sale Specialist Network:
Why Do Short Sales Take So Long To Complete?

For the homeowner anxious to complete a short sale and move on with their lives, the long, drawn out short sale process can feel like an eternity. Regular listings close approximately 30 days after listing on average – faster if it’s a hot market. Real Estate short sales on the other hand, … (1 comments)

10 Tips for Better Online Contact Conversion - 12/08/11 01:44 PM
How to make the most of those online leads!  Use your statistics and local area information to generate more sales by converting more contacts.  Answer questions, be a "real person" and not just a generic email.
Via Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager):
Are you getting the absolute most and best results from your ActiveRain, Zillow, and other Agent memberships and sites?  Are there some things you’re doing or maybe not doing that could increase the results and successes you’re currently experiencing?
Many times we feel confident and believe that we are doing all the right things possible, but sometimes as Gary … (2 comments)

Baby D Asks: What’s on Your Wish List? - 12/07/11 01:27 PM
Baby D Asks: What’s on Your Wish List?

Have you been a good boy or girl this year? Are you dreaming BIG? Then why not ask Santa for your dream home? Inventory is plentiful, prices are reasonable, and interest rates are at an all time low! Now is the perfect time to find that special place to call HOME!
Ready to do a little window shopping? Contact your Loudoun County Real Estate experts at Ask Gina & Company today and let us wrap up something extraordinary for you!
 
Gina Tufano with Keller Williams Realty Loudoun Gateway, Ashburn, VA
 
… (1 comments)

Your Children's Rooms During a Showing - 12/07/11 11:57 AM
Good tips for sellers!  It is always best to have a room in it's intended state while the property is on the market - this allows the buyers to be able envision the house as their home
Via MaryBeth Strait:
Kid’s rooms
These rooms need to be as neutral as possible while still targeting your ideal buyer. This means that a family will want to see how a crib, twin or full bed would fit into the room.  However, they don’t need to know the names and ages of your children, where they go to school and every award and/or trophy they have … (2 comments)

My Nephew & his class could use some help - Christmas Choir Song Contest - 12/07/11 11:30 AM
Take a listen to the songs below - Johnny's class wrote an original holiday tune and is hoping to win the Christmas Choir Song Contest.  Happy to help out a fellow Active Rain'er - please vote!
Via Jeff Belonger-The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans ( Social Media - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
Hey all.... I first started on Active Rain on October 3rd 2006... I haven't been around in the last 10 months or so like I use to. Been very busy on my new project, MyPhillyAlive .... And from day one, … (0 comments)

5 Things to Bring to a PDI - 12/07/11 11:25 AM
A pre delivery inspection or final walkthrough as we call it here in Northern Virginia is an important final step in the home buying process. Once completed - you are ready to go to closing and become a homeowner!
Via Lee Redwood, Sundaybell, The Match.com of Real Estate (Sundaybell Inc.):
PDIs, or pre-delivery inspections, are a very important step in the home buying process, but too often people get overly excited at the prospect of moving into their new property and fail to give the home a proper inspection. There are a few important things to look out for during a PDI, and a … (1 comments)

Have Mortgage Rates Bottomed Out? - 12/07/11 11:21 AM
You can never really be sure that we've hit bottom until we start to go back up.  Don't wait until it is too late - if it looks like the bottom, feels like the bottom, sounds like the bottom - it is most likely the bottom.
Via Jon Klein - Search Parkland Homes for sale - Parkland FL neighborhoods (Coldwell Banker):
Mortgage rates have troughed. Or, so it seems. According to Freddie Mac's weekly Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage is 4.00 percent nationwide -- roughly the same rate as it's been for 5 weeks. During that times, … (2 comments)

Tis The Season To Purchase A House - 12/05/11 09:18 PM
There really isn't a "bad" time to buy or sell a home.  Here are some of the reasons it is good to be a buyer in December.  Ready to get your new home for the holidays?  Give us a call, we'd be happy to help!
Via George Souto NMLS# 65149 FHA, CHFA, VA Mortgages Connecticut:
We are entering the time of the year when Home Sales typically slow down. This is because of several reasons, the two biggest being the Holidays, and the cold snowy winter months.
 But when you stop to think about it, this is really the perfect time for Buyers … (3 comments)

You May Not Find the Perfect House....But You May Find The Perfect Home - 12/05/11 08:54 PM
Of course there is no "perfect" house, but every home is perfect  Filled with people, memories, and able to tell a story.  Such a difference - one is simply a floor plan or square footage, while the other is a living, breathing experience.  
Via Christine Smith, Canton MA Buyer Agent & Attorney, 781.799.8313 (Buyers Brokers Only LLC - www.BuyersBrokersOnly.com):
You May Not Find the Perfect House....But You May Find the Perfect Home
Most buyers are limited by the amount of money they can spend.  When you add that in to the type of home they want, the size of home and the … (2 comments)

Take Control Of Your Finances Eliminate Your Debt - 12/05/11 08:49 PM
Always good to take inventory and control of your wallet!  Very smart to make step one a list of all of your debts and your assets.  What is your net worth?  It may come as a surprise to many when they find out just what the balance is.  Don't be surprised, be prepared!
Via REATA REALTY:
Eliminate Debt and Take Control of Your Finances
It is often a depressing feeling when you find yourself looking at a mountain of debt. However, you have the ability to face your debt head-on, devise a specific debt repayment plan, and gain control of your personal financial … (0 comments)

All the Glitz and Glamour! - 12/05/11 04:44 PM
All the Glitz and Glamour!

 
You’ll LOVE this absolutely stunning 4 bedroom home located in coveted Lansdowne on the Potomac!
The first thing you will notice is the well maintained, brick front exterior with covered porch. As you enter you will be immediately impressed with the sun drenched den, the elegant formal dining room dripping with opulent crown molding, and the sophisticated formal living room with gleaming hardwood floors. Just around the corner is your glorious gourmet kitchen which boasts 42" cognac cabinets, exotic granite counter tops, fantastic back splash, stainless steel appliances, 5 burner cook top, double ovens...the … (2 comments)

Astonishing Amenities! 19218 Wiggum Square, Leesburg - 12/05/11 02:13 PM
Come Home to Elegance with this Lansdowne on the Potomac Stunner! … (0 comments)

Priced Below Tax Value! 20414 Cliftons Point Street, Sterling - 12/05/11 02:09 PM
Stunning 5 Bedroom with Basement and Wet Bar! … (0 comments)

What You Should Ask When Choosing A Short Sale Realtor - 12/04/11 10:33 PM
It's important to do your homework before hiring the right short sale Realtor for the job.  What is their track record?  Do they have help with the process or are they a one man show?  How many do they have at one time?
Via Mike Linkenauger Short Sale Specialist Network:
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Short Sale Realtor

 
The number of short sales being performed on homes and properties is continuously increasing. This is due to the fact that the percentage of home owners experiencing financial problems is also on the rise. If you are one of these people, then … (3 comments)

Baby, it's cold outside so winterize vacant houses - 12/03/11 10:48 AM
As we settle in for winter - let's not forget to take care of vacant properties!  Keeping utilities on and turning off the water will help stop any weather related damage that can occur during the coldest time of the year.
Via Liz Lockhart,GRI, Cape Girardeau Real Estate (CENTURY 21 Key Realty, Cape Girardeau, MO):
My client was desperate. She was going to lose her house to foreclosure, unless I could negotiate a successful short sale. After several weeks of dealing with her lender, we were well into the process. The weather was getting colder, and my seller moved out of state soon … (1 comments)

Selling Your Home Over the Holidays - 12/03/11 10:46 AM
Having your home on the market through the holidays may mean less showings, but more serious buyers.  Fewer 'just looking' and more 'need to buy now' exists during the cold, busy winter months.
Via James Lowenstern, Newton Real Estate Newton MA Real Estate (Castles Unlimited®):
The holidays are fast approaching. Regardless of what denomination you are- the next couple of months are probably going to be more hectic than most as you prepare to conclude 2011 with friends and family. If your home is on the market, this time of year is also particularly tricky. Fortunately there is great advice for those … (0 comments)

Cool Light Displays in the Metro DC Area - 12/03/11 10:36 AM
Looking for some holiday spirit?  You will be sure to find it in these great area light shows!  My favorite is ZooLights!  Definitely worth the trip from Northern Virginia!  HO HO HO!
Via Mynor Herrera (Keller Williams - Capital Properties):
There are so many wonderful holiday activities in Bethesda and the surrounding area, including some great holiday light displays. Two of the nicer displays are ZooLights at The National Zoo in Washington, DCand Symphony of Lights at Symphony Woods in Columbia, MD.
 
ZooLights shows off many of the zoo’s most popular animals, built larger-than-life and constructed of LED lights. The LED lights … (0 comments)

10 Ways to Get the Best of Winter When Selling Your Home - 12/03/11 10:32 AM
Excellent blog!  There really are a host of other items to consider when selling a property in the winter.  Snow and ice are just the start!  Keeping things cozy and light will make people more compelled to stay.
Via Christopher Pataki Hockessin Delaware Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates):
If your home will be for sale this winter, it is important to master certain seasonal issues that are less significant or even non-existent at other times of the year. Here are 10 bits of sage advice from RE/MAX agents that can help put a “Sold” sticker on that yard sign.
Let Those Lights Shine: The … (0 comments)

Just Pack Your Things and Move On In! - 12/02/11 04:04 PM
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Charming Single Family Home at Affordable Price! - 12/02/11 04:00 PM
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Lets Rock Out! - 12/02/11 03:49 PM
Lets Rock Out!

 
If there are two things we really love at Ask Gina & Company, it’s fashion and our community! That’s why we are proud to be Gold Sponsors of Loudoun Youth’s “Rock the Runway” being held Saturday, December 3rd from 1PM until 5PM at the Toll Brothers Office Building in Ashburn!
We will be on hand to support the mission of Loudoun Youth to “assist in the development of youth programs and to create leadership opportunities for young people.” We can not wait to see our young community members, including Olivia and Jessica Sysak, strut their stuff … (0 comments)

Don't be that agent... - 12/02/11 12:27 AM
I was going over a contract I just received today and was again astounded as to what some agents will turn in.
 
This offer contained the appraisal notice form - yes - the form that is given after the appraisal to remove the contingency which states what the final value was.  Did the Magic 8 Ball let them know the value before hand?   It also had several boxes that weren't checked (who was paying for the termite for example) and other that were (seller financing included - NOT).  I wonder if the buyer was even paying attention when they … (9 comments)

 
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Gina Tufano

Sterling, VA

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Keller Williams Realty Loudoun Gateway

Address: 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Suite 110, Ashburn, VA, 20147

Office Phone: (703) 574-3478

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The ins and outs of the Northern Virginia community. Including Fairfax and Loudoun Real Estate - and the neighborhoods of Cascades, Lowes Island, Lansdowne, Belmont, Ashburn Village, Brambleton, Rivercrest, Countryside, River Creek and more. Our office in Keller Williams Ashburn is the prime location to help home buyers and home sellers navigate the real estate market.
Gina M. Tufano on Zillow


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