New HARP Guidelines for Home Owners - 10/30/11 08:00 PM
Recently the Federal Home Finance Agency announced significant changes to its Home Affordable Refinance Program Monday. The HARP (Home Affordable Refinance Program) was initiated to help "underwater homeowners" get their home refinanced.

There are over a million homeowners nationwide - and many home owners here in Chantilly and the Northern Virginia area -  who might be helped by these changes.  Given the historically low interest rates, it is wise to know about this program.
There are four basic qualifying criteria:
Your current home loan must be guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac Your home must be a 1- to … (0 comments)

Time to consider refinancing your home? - 10/18/11 01:10 PM

Many Chantilly and Northern Virginia home owners, like those elsewhere, have wondered about refinancing their home, given the amazingly low prevailing interest rates.
If this has been on your mind, take a few moments to view this Today Show video.  Even though this was aired in September, I think you will most of the info current.
One of the key questions of course, is whether the costs of doing a refi outweigh the benefits.
Key points include:
Lower rates mean higher costs. At least check out the slightly higher-rate option from your bank. Falling home values may make it … (0 comments)

Chantilly VA Home for Sale: Really Smart Rambler at 15244 Louis Mill Drive - 10/15/11 05:04 PM
You won't see too many Ramblers for sale in this area, but here is one in Chantilly's popular Pleasant Valley community.
This short sale property is a fantastic value, and the home itself has the valuable feature of having an addition which adds a generous extra amount of living space.  If the price and location are in your focus area, this one is worth a good look. Start by taking a quick Visual Tour right now, and then just let me know if you want more info.
Price:  $279,900
MLS#: FX 7702761
More information:  please click here and you … (2 comments)

Centreville VA Townhouse for Sale at 5928 Havener House Way: A Winner on Several Levels - 10/15/11 04:32 PM
This Centreville townhouse at 5928 Havener House Way has real advantages from several perspectives.

If you are looking to get into your first home, this could be the one. If you are looking just to downsize and get your monthly outgo under control, this could be the one.  If you are looking for an investment property with an eye toward eventually having additional rental income, this could be the one.  Maybe you are interested in all three advantages!
Lots of possibilities.  And also know that this is not a distressed or foreclosed property, so you won't have that hassle or … (2 comments)

Fall Fix-Ups For Your Home - 10/07/11 09:00 PM

Chantilly and Northern Virginia home sellers and home owners will benefit from this short Today Show video called a "Fall Fix-Up Checklist".  You will get very practical tips on how to:
Clean up leaves. limit grass damage, and keep pests under control Unclog gutters so that you prevent house damage this problem can cause Turn off outside water sources and remove water from pipes and hoses Also helpful is how to find air leaks in your home, and how they can be fixed. You can save a bundle by reducing or eliminating these leaks.
If you are a little handy, … (6 comments)