Jennifer's Blog

What Can a Northern Virginia Home SELLER do to help their Home Sell?

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 07:06:36 -0500

Let's face it - what sells a home is the right person walking through the door at the right time. The process is a balance between a competent real estate agent and a client, in most cases. The agent comes to the table with a plan for how to cast the widest net to catch potential buyers. This might include hosting an open house, online advertising, etc...

However, there are definitely two sides to the partnership and if the seller doesn't truly get their head in the game, you could find yourself with a lopsided partnership - even the best marketing can't sell a house that really isn't prepared properly to sell. So let's examine what the home sellers can, and should, do!

FIRST -

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10 Things to Look for when Choosing YOUR Next Real Estate Professional

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:55:39 -0500

Choosing who will represent you on the purchase or sale of your home (or investment property) is a big deal! It's probably one of the single largest purchases or sales you will make in your entire life and unless you're a big investor, probably something you will only do a handful of times in your life. So when the time comes for your to choose that special person that will guide you through this process, it's important to look for the qualities that are most important to YOU.

I started out thinking I would do a "Top 10 List" of sorts, a la David Letterman. But I quickly realized that the list will be different for everybody! What's important to you may not be as important to your co-worker, stock broker or college roommate who has recommended an agent to you. Don't get me wrong, a personal referral is an excellent source, but make sure they are the right person for YOU and your needs.

Here is MY list of what I would look for in a real estate professional (and remember they are in NO particular order - just train of thought):

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FOR Sale - Del Ray renovated Rowhouse 510 E. Howell Ave - $495,000 Open 3/16 1-4

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:01:44 -0500

Jennifer Klaussen | Keller Williams Realty | 703-593-0877

510 E. Howell Ave, Alexandria, VA

WOWSA Modern Del Ray Rowhouse Renovation!!

2 Bdrm Townhouse

offered at $495,000

Year Built	1940
Sq Footage	1,300
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	1,680 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Chic updated Del Ray rowhouse. Architect/Builder owners transformed this traditional rowhouse for 21st century modern living. Open spaces, fabulous finishes, modern touches everywhere. Brand new full bath in basement featuring travertine & rain-shower fixture. Lotsa recessed lighting, storage, etc! Fab deck for outdoor entertaining, off-street parking and wonderful shed & more.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Stainless steel appliances	Basement
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Jennifer Klaussen

Keller Williams Realty

703-593-0877

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 11, 2008, 4:32am PDT

November Sales Figures are in for Arlington County Virginia

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 11:41:55 -0600

...And the results are truly a mixed bag. For all of the media hype about what a bad market it is right now, we're still seeing some good successes in these closer in markets. Frankly, we're beginning to see successes overall where homes are priced appropriately and presented well, no matter where they're located. Sometimes it is still taking some time, which is frustrating for the sellers. However, a home seller in the DC area can have hope!

Here's how the numbers look for just the month of November, 2007 and how it compares with just last November:

Click here to continue reading about November home sales in Arlington Virginia

FOR SALE - 1101 Arlington Ridge Road #902 - The Representative WOWEE

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 12:23:06 -0500

Jennifer Klaussen | Keller Williams Realty | 703-593-0877

1101 Arlington Ridge Rd, #902, Arlington, VA

Fabulous City Views, End unit w/East, West, South Exposures; Fab secure bldg, open flr plan - unique opportunity

3 Bdrm Condo

offered at $1,295,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	2,485
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$1,028 per month

DESCRIPTION

Stunning views, spacious interior. Recent appraisal (September, 2007) for $1,500,000. Priced for new owner to make it their own!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

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

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Storage space(s)	Fitness center
Swimming pool(s)	Secured entry	Elevator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Jennifer Klaussen

Keller Williams Realty

703-593-0877

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 14, 2007, 11:26am PDT

Westover in Arlington County, Virginia - GREAT PLACES!!

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 07:53:02 -0500

I've decided to add a new feature to my blogworld - Neighborhood Focus. This week, to kick it off, I'll be taking a closer look at Westover, a charming neighborhood in North Arlington that gives the feel of yesteryear.

Washington Boulevard is the "Main Street" if you will, of Westover. Traffic slows when you enter into the 2-3 block stretch resembling days gone by. It's an area of local shops, small-town feel, and everything you need - from the post office, the grocery, a few colorful restaurants, a barber, drug store, hardware store, coffee shop, library... what else could you need?

Here is a look down one of the sidewalks of Westover Village. You can see the barber shop and Scoop Beauregards - one of my personal favorite ice cream parlors in the entire area!

This shopping center is flanked by 2 very clever restaurants: The Lost Dog Cafe and the Stray Cat Cafe! I can personally vouch for the garlic-y white pizzas and wide array of beer/ale served at the Lost Dog! It's definitely something to experience.

It's a quaint part of Arlington that offers a variety of housing options some even affordable! Also, it lies within walking distance to the East Falls Church metro - making it a commuter's dream.

So if you're considering a move to Arlington, or even just like exploring new places - consider slowing down and experiencing Westover! You won't regret it.

Happy Thursday

Jennifer

Arlington County Green Homebuilding

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 15:43:01 -0500

I'm sure you've heard all about the "green movement" - as it relates to the housing industry, it involves updating processes and materials to build (or renovate) a more environmentally friendly home. Arlington County has created a program called the Green Home Choice Program. The program deals with everything from minimizing the amount and types of construction waste, to eco-friendly products and energy efficient (Energy Star) systems. Having an energy efficient home can not only save you money each month on your energy bills, but also save in the long term on the use of natural resources, like water and gas. Green homes can also help reduce the allergens and pollutants sometimes found in building materials.

One of the great side benefits of participating in this program is that the "green home" builder moves to the front of the permit approval line often saving measurable time in the building process.

In order to qualify as a certified builder in the Green Home Choice Program, an application is required through the county outlining the project intent - a special inspector will then be assigned who will keep a scorecard for the project to ensure that the project remains in the acceptable scores for the program. Arlington County maintains a great list of resources for green home architects, builders and suppliers.

In the end, going green is kind to our environment, saves the homeowner money each month AND might even be completed a little more quickly with the help of Arlington County! So if you're considering going green, check out the benefits and go for it!

Happy Wednesday

Jennifer

So I have a ratified contract, what now?

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 16:54:55 -0500

I work with a lot of buyers. With many of them, this is the first time experiencing the home buying process, so we spend a lot of time on terminology and what to expect. Nobody likes surprises, especially when they are making probably their largest investment to date in their lives! So let's look at the process:

When a client writes an offer to purchase property, it's just that... an offer. It consists of an offer price, settlement date, specified financing, an earnest money deposit, what items are included (refrigerator, cooktop, window treatments, etc...), whether or not a home inspection will be performed and if the offer is contingent upon anything else (financing, 3rd party approval, the sale of another home, etc...), to name a few... Once all parties have agreed to all terms, we have what we call a ratified contract and the clock starts ticking.

The #1, most important thing that needs to happen is to get started in earnest on securing your mortgage - this means choosing the right program, locking in an interest rate and moving forward with all necessary paperwork to assist your lender to prepare your loan. As part of that process, they will also order the appraisal for your property, which has to be done within a specified time period that is written into the contract.

The home inspection will be scheduled at a time mutually convenient for the purchasers, the buyers agent and home inspector. This can usually be scheduled within the first few days - by doing this on the earlier side, this will give you enough time to call for additional inspections if necessary.

A termite inspection is also ordered to ensure the property doesn't have any pre-existing termite damage or active infestation. They usually also check for a number of other insects like carpenter bees, ants, etc...

You will also need to contact your insurance agent fairly quickly to begin the process of obtaining homeowners insurance - assuming you're not purchasing a condominium unit, in which case part of your fees go towards the master insurance policy of the structure.

Once the financing is secured, the home inspection has been done and sellers and buyers agree to whatever action needs to be taken to remedy any deficiencies, termite is done and appraisal, there's not much to do but pack! You will also want to be sure that you've contacted the appropriate utility companies to ensure that they are transferred into your name (s) as of the date of settlement. Then, a day or two prior to settlement, a walkthrough will be scheduled to check that all systems are in normal working order as required by the contract, and that any agreed upon repairs have been completed.

As your realtor, I handle MOST of these items for you, guiding you through the process at every turn. It can be very pleasant and enjoyable and an exciting time all around.

If you're contemplating making a purchase, whether it's your first or tenth, I'd be delighted to talk with you further.

Happy Monday!

Jennifer

Keller Williams Mega Agent Camp 2007

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 07:17:27 -0500

WOW... Having just joined KW in March, this was my first opportunity to "hear the story" at this level. I was so impressed with the quality of the event - the quality of the speakers - the candor of Gary Keller, Dave Jenks and others that spoke - the passion that I felt from all of the agent panelists that gave THEIR time to help the rest of us understand just what it takes to be successful in this business. Never before have I worked for a company (or in this case, been associated with a company) that fed my mind, my business, my soul and my heart and genuinely was vested in MY PERSONAL SUCCESS! Keller Williams is the real deal - the total package! In my mind there is NO reason to hang my hat anywhere else.

Go Keller Williams! You ROCK!

Buyer Agency - too vague? unclear?

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:20:05 -0500

Today's topic is sometimes a sticky one - sometimes misunderstood - sometimes abused - but most of the time, it works out wonderfully for all parties involved.

Today I came across some information that really surprised me. I received a referral from another real estate agent this past winter and worked with this particular client for 2 1/2 months to help them find their dream home under a buyer agency representation agreement. During that time, we wrote one contract that didn't go through due to the presence of a better offer. In my estimation, we looked at somewhere between 50 and 60 homes together. That's A LOT!!! At the end of those months together, they seemed exhausted and frustrated and decided to take a break - they told me they were renewing their lease for another 6 months and would resume their search thereafter. They thanked me for my diligence, my patience with their schedule and my hard work to date, promising to get in touch when it was time to resume the search.

I found out today that 11 days after they told me this, they SETTLED on another property in a neighborhood we'd been looking in. When I contacted them today to ask them what happened, they were surprised to hear that I felt that compensation was due, not to mention that the buyer agency agreement that they signed said it was due. Imagine - they felt that they found the property and consummated the deal without my assistance so therefore I was not due any compensation. What about the 2 months that we worked together? 2 or sometimes 3 days/week - 5 and 6 houses at a time? Missing family events, running out on short notice, quickly previewing new listings and actively chasing down possibilities that weren't even on the market in their "dream" neighborhood? Hmmmmmm

Obviously feelings are involved, at least on my part - I worked hard, put their needs first, helped educate them, both on the housing market and on lending options, helped them explore different neighborhoods, communities, home styles, etc... my feelings are hurt that all of this effort was not rewarded with compensation. Their feeling is that it's the nature of the business and I should just deal with it and move on.

Signing a buyer agency agreement is putting in place a contract hiring a qualified, competent real estate agent to work for you. That agent is putting in the time with an agreement that at the end, compensation will be earned. What other business can you think of where someone works for free on the hopes that it all works out? This is very much of a relationship built on trust. The beauty of buyer agency is that the SELLER PAYS THE COMMISSION!!! This is the way I put food on my table for my family - it's not something I do recreationally for the pleasure of serving others. Don't get me wrong, for the most part I enjoy each and every one of my clients and we have built long lasting, solid relationships because it's a mutually rewarding and respectful relationship. But it's how I earn a living.

I'd love to work with you - but please respect me and my time. I will give tirelessly in the pursuit of the perfect place for you to purchase - but I look for mutual commitment. Like I said in the beginning of this post, 99% of the time, buyer agency is a beautiful thing!

Happy Thursday

Jennifer

The Apple iPhone - I couldn't resist!

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 07:49:37 -0500

Yes, it's true - I did it. I couldn't help myself. My Treo ( which I've had a love/hate relationship with since I got it - more HATE than love) had been misbehaving and if you know me, you know I LOVE technology, so I just had to do it. I must admit it's a rockin' little thing!

I haven't even discovered all of it's talents yet - spent yesterday sync'ing my address book and getting the blue tooth to work, but it's MINE! MINE ALL MINE! No lines, plenty of help at the Apple Store in Clarendon! VERY knowledgeable sales folks, and friendly too!

It was a totally different experience than any other phone I've ever purchased. After you play around a bit, and talk with the friendly Apple sales folks, you just go up to the counter and say "I want one, please!" And they hand you one (after you fork over a lot of money - because of course you need the blue tooth device, the car charger, etc...).

Then you take it HOME, plug it into your computer and go to iTunes to set it up. So it initializes, you set up your service plan w/AT&T Wireless, (which is the ONLY carrier that will work with the iPhone) and you're off to the races. In fact, the plans were so good that when my husband came home, I suggested that he might want to get one too and we could be on a family share plan. Never have you seen a man move so fast as he did heading out to the Apple store with our son last night! They were both happy guys! So that's it - that's the story - we now have 2 (how will we ever tell them apart?) - I guess I'll have to paint mine or something.

So this morning, I head out into the world just waiting for my phone to ring. I'll certainly be smiling! After all - who wouldn't be?

Notice my breakfast of champions in the background! Also, I know I'm not as good of a photographer as the Apple ad firm, but it's MINE!

Happy Tuesday!

FOR SALE - GREAT Townhome in Fairfax $434,900 - 2973 Braxton Wood Ct

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 08:03:50 -0500

Nothing left to do but move in! Seriously!! Wonderful, light and airy, 2br/3ba end unit townhome in super-convenient location - close to shops, restaurants, public transportation and only 1/2 mile to the Vienna Metro!

Updated kitchen with NEW appliances, Pergo floors; fabulous fresh designer paint - open floor plan. Two masters upstairs - one with HUGE bathroom with soaking tub, separate shower and skylight!! In the basement, a large rec room with wood burning fireplace, sliding glass door opens to enormous yard - just waiting for your gardening/landscaping touches! There's also a large unfinished area with laundry and a full bath. TONS of storage here as well.

You will also find all copper pipes, a new roof in the last few years (FRT is GONE!). Also, new light fixtures, door hardware, outlet covers, etc... the place sparkles!

Just add furniture!

3761 Persimmon Circle FOR SALE - 2BR/2BA 1,600+ Sq FT, $30K in recent updates Only $324,900

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 08:00:52 -0500

Unparalleled value in Fairfax! 2BR/2BA + Den/Storage Area/Nursery - Updated, eat-in Kitchen, LARGE rooms, Gorgeous outdoor patio, NEW Windows and Sliding Glass Door. Super convenient to shops, restaurants, health club; public transportation just steps away! AND only 1.2 miles to the Vienna Metro stop.

North Arlington, VA 22207 Condo - 1br/1ba Washer/Dryer, Fireplace, Public Transportation!!

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 10:31:32 -0500

WOWSA!!! Nowhere else in N. Arlington can you get all that this fabulous 1br Balmoral condo has to offer. IN UNIT WASHER/DRYER, WOODBURNING FIREPLACE, just STEPS to MAJOR public transportation (bus/rail), many recent updates (w/d, dishwasher, A/C, etc), xtra storage unit, SECURE BUILDING w/assigned parking AND 2-10 Home Warranty. Just add furniture and you're HOME SWEET HOME!