Jennifer's Blog

Buying a Car vs. Buying a Home

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:56:25 -0600

Warning: this video is 5 minutes long. It may take a while to load. One issue I've learned creating this was to be short and to the point. Next time, I'll do better!

34 Homes Sold in Caroline in October. What else??

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:34:40 -0600

October stats are out!

Here’s a link to the Caroline Sales and Listings.

And here’s Spotsylvania Sales and listing statistics.

If you have any questions about these reports or need price stats for another county, feel free to ask.

This month, I thought I would focus on currently listed homes with acreage under $150,000.

There are 13 homes that meet this criteria. Acreage ranges from 1 to 3.338. Days on market range from 1 day to 319 days.

Click the following URL to see the listings:
http://mrislistings.mris.com/Matrix/Public/Portal.aspx?k=1389753XOE7M&p=DE-94405184-847

At first glance, I think this one is my favorite: 17350 NEW BALTIMORE, MILFORD, VA 22514

Hung Out To Dry in Lake Land'or

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:32:11 -0500

(my husband graciously wrote this for me)

I will readily admit that I like having tidy neighbors. I fully agree that junk and yard clutter decrease the value of property resale.

I am also happy to hear that Virginia is considering a law to overrule the local POA's policy against hanging one's clothes to dry outside.

There are over 300,000 Property Owner's Associations in the US and many of them have adopted a policy to disallow clotheslines.

I initially thought this to be a good thing, but as my understanding of environmental impact and cost savings has grown, I've changed my ideology. I think that homeowner rights and efforts to decrease utility costs out weigh the Property Owner's Association rationale for policing how a homeowner dries their clothes.

According to the New York Times article "Debate Follows Bills to Remove Clotheslines Bans" many states have already taken away the POA's right to ban outside drying and Virginia is among others that are moving that direction. The article points out that clothes dryers account for about 6% of the normal household's total electric bill.

I think there is a compromise. I don't wish to see my neighbor's underwear dangling in the wind for days at a time, so perhaps clothes drying could be contained to daylight hours, etc...

The world is changing, many homeowners find solace in their ability to take actions that will help the environment and will continue to fight for those rights. Admittedly I find that there is an generational barrier to this issue. Those of the Baby Boomer and Silent generation are not thrilled with the ideology of the predominantly Generation X and Y, that would rather sacrifice a small bit of ascetics for a better earth. I happen to think the POA policies against solar energy collectors will be the next article up for grabs.

Mindset and beliefs will be challenged as Generation X and Y become more active in "making the sausage". POA committees that have predominantly been made up of older generations may start finding some new challengers.

Fall Fun Close to Home

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:08:25 -0500

This weekend I participated in my first Oktoberfest. It was a neighborhood get-together with friends coming together to enjoy the nip in the air, try a few beers, and stuff themselves with some great German food!

For someone who does not drink beer or eat sauerkraut, I still had a great time! Just getting to know your neighbors a little bit better and to create a deeper relationship makes you feel like family. And since our families are often in another town or state, it’s important to have friends that you feel like you can call upon during an emergency or just to chat with!

This is the first neighborhood I have ever lived in where we have participated in neighborhood get-together on a regular basis. And I love it! If your neighborhood or street has never had a block party, consider hosting one!

Plan the date 2 months in advice and send out flyers right away
Ask everyone to bring a drink and dish to share
Provide the paper products, tables, and electrical outlets
Have business cards with your Facebook/Twitter info on the back so you can continue to stay in touch between gatherings
Be ready to laugh!

Caroline County Update for September

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:19:42 -0500

From the County Administrator and the Caroline County Website… (I’ve added most of the hyperlinks to make it easier for you to visit).

Contact Information:
Percy Ashcraft, County Administrator pashcraft@co.caroline.va.us (804) 633-5380

Message from the County Administrator
September, 2009

This message is the ninth in 2009 to better update our citizens and visitors to the website. The information serves as a status report for ongoing projects, and also serves as a preview to different happenings that are in the planning stages.

County government offices will be closed Monday, September 7 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Offices will reopen at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 8.

The Board of Supervisors will hold its regular meetings this month on Tuesday, September 8 and Tuesday, September 22 at 6 p.m. at the Community Services Center.

The Board of Supervisors and Public School Board will have a joint meeting at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 17 at the Community Services Center.

The Board of Supervisors will also host the Regional Elected Officials Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 29 at the Visitor Center.

Tuesday, September 1 will be Bring Your Child to Work Day for County government employees. This is an opportunity for children and grandchildren of County employees to observe and better understand the responsibilities of their parents and grandparents in the workplace.

The State Fair of Virginia will hold its first State Fair in Caroline County September 24 – October 4 at its new site at Meadow Farm. The Board of Supervisors will participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday, September 24. State Fair President Curry Roberts will give a report at the September 8 meeting of the Board of Supervisors on the upcoming Fair events.

County Staff will continue this month meeting with individual members of the Board of Supervisors in establishing short and long-range strategic goals for the County.

Caroline County will continue its effort this month to promote the All-America Cities Award that was captured in June.

All county residents are encouraged to register for the Caroline Alert System. The system will notify residents of emergencies and other government news through their cell phones and desktop computers. This is a free service offered by the Board of Supervisors. Click on www.CarolineAlert.com to register.

Here is a capsule glance of other activities that will be happening in County government during the month of August:

The Parks and Recreation Department will begin soccer and youth football games this month. Contact the office at (804) 633-7277 for information on these programs and other offerings.
The Board of Supervisors will continue this month to discuss the update to the County’s Comprehensive Plan.
At the request of Chairman Acors, County Staff has put together a 2010 Census Team which will be charged with assisting with the identification of every County resident for the 2010 Census. The first meeting will be in October.
County staff and consultants continue to work on a proposal that will allow the County to withdraw water from the Rappahannock River in the future. The Department of Environmental Quality must grant its approval before water can be withdrawn.
The Dawn Wastewater Project is nearing completion of its first phase, with almost 200 homes to be served. Residents interested in signing up for Phase II are asked to contact the Utility Department at (804) 633-4386.
The Utility Department will continue this month to oversee the drilling of new wells to increase potential for new water quantity in the County.
The Utility Department will continue to provide the residents of Lake Caroline with water because of a failed system operated by the Lake Caroline Water System. A hearing is planned before the State Corporation Commission in October to sort out the future plans to provide water to the residents.
The Board of Supervisors adopted at its August 25 meeting an incentive package for Fire and Rescue Volunteers as recommended by the Emergency Services Commission.
The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing at its September 22 meeting on an ordinance that would create a Housing Stimulus Package that will look to provide a boost to local builders.
The Board of Supervisors will have under consideration at its September 22 meeting a lease agreement with the Public School Division regarding the use of the old Ladysmith Elementary School.
A request to rezone property by the Flippo family for the purpose of a residential subdivision along Route 207 next to Belmont has been delayed indefinitely at the request of the property owner.
The Board of Supervisors has delayed action indefinitely at the request of the owner a proposal to locate a mulch plant (Norfleet) along Route 2.
The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing at its September 8 meeting on a text amendment establishing Guest Quarters at the location of Ladysmith Floor and Lumber.
The Board of Supervisors approved at its August 25 meeting an ordinance to establish a Wireless Service Authority.
An agreement is close involving the negotiations between the County and Metrocast regarding a TV Cable Franchise agreement. A public hearing will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 22 as part of the Board of Supervisors meeting.
County Staff will continue to work with regional officials to expand the use of the Lloyd Boxley Cannery located along Route 301 south. The County is accepting applications for three part-time positions.
Economic Development Director Gary Wilson will introduce a new signage program at the September 8 meeting of the Board of Supervisors to compliment a recently-adopted Technology Zone ordinance.
The Board of Supervisors will entertain First Reading of an ordinance amendment at its September 8 meeting to codify the duties and responsibilities of the Fire-EMS Chief.
The Board of Supervisors at its September 8 meeting will receive an annual report from MediCorp Health Services.
The Board of Supervisors will discuss at its September 22 meeting future water plans for Caroline Pines subdivision.

Caroline public and private schools open September 8. Please be mindful of children walking in school zones and around school busses.
Have a great month!

Recipe for Outside Your Home

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:09:50 -0500

Good morning Ladies and Gents! We're back from our vacation from Nags Head, NC. It was very nice! I had not been there in almost 10 years! And I'm thankful that the trip did not seem as long this time - especially since I thought we were going to Sandbridge outside of Virginia Beach.

Anyway, being a real estate agent and visiting such a unique area with such a variety of beach houses made me feel excited! I rode down the beach playing the "no, yes" game from my youth - for "which home would you buy if you could?" And then we visited the Life is Good shop and not I want to redecorate my house with the words of Life is Good - relax, live, have fun, love! Maybe someone here will open a franchise for me! I'm sure it would do well in Ladysmith Village!

One final thought about my vacation (for now) was the difference in landscaping. Some had only the beach grass. But some yards looked like golf courses which seemed a bit out of place to me. But maybe it was because we played Frisbee on the beach instead of on the lawn. But the yards reminded me of an email I received....

I receive the cute newsletter every week from Econobusters.com . I love the layout and the great tips, and this week I asked if I could share their recipe for natural lawn fertilizer! They said yes! So here you go!

Home Made Lawn Fertilizer

Ingredients:
One can of soda (any kind except diet soda will work)
One can of beer (any kind except light beer)
1/2 cup of household ammonia
1/2 cup of liquid dishwashing soap
(do not use antibacterial soap because it will kill important microbes)
1/2 cup of mouthwash

Directions:
Mix together all ingredients and pour into a 10-gallon hose-end sprayer, and apply it to the lawn while you water.
The soda and beer act as food for the lawn. The ammonia promotes growth and helps make the grass green. The liquid dishwashing soap is a wetting agent and helps the water reach the roots, and the mouthwash actually kills bugs and grubs in the lawn.

Be very careful to use the exact amount listed for each ingredient. The ammonia could kill the grass if too much is used. This fertilizer should only be used once every three to four weeks in high heat, and even less frequently when the temperatures are not hot. It is also important to only use dishwashing soap, dishwashing detergent could be harmful. If you have pets at home, they should also be kept off the lawn for 24 to 36 hours after treatment.

There you have it. I thought a recipe for the actual yard would be a neat twist this time around!

And don't forget about my recipe E-Book,Molly Makes $5 Dinners and $3 Desserts!

Thanks Econobusters.com

Tips and Tricks

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 11:53:13 -0500

Over the years, I pick up odds and end of tips and tricks. Here are a few that I was reminded about this week:

Trees and fences usually add value to your home. They also use up the nutrients from the ground and it's a bit harder to grow grass under them (unless you don't want grass under your trees!).

Victory gardens and square foot gardening fits into almost every lot and can save you hundreds in fruits and vegetables! And now with freezing you don't even have to worry about canning!

If you're tub has become discolored from your well water, try Iron Out. But when it's time to drain, use a hose to siphon the water out to a distance in your yard instead of letting it drain out through your pipes. It will kill the bacteria in your septic tank - as will other harsh cleaning chemicals.

A leaky toilet can waste 200-400 gallons of water per day costing you BIG BUCKS! Spend the $20 and replace that valve!

If you run out of storage in your home, try going up! Taller bookshelves, hooks on walls, plywood in the attic... Or just get rid of that 20 year old dress that you have not worn in 10 years!

If you need some area service provides, jest ask, I may already have a name!

Those were the random thoughts that came to mind today. Enjoy this beautiful weather!

Legislation for “For Sale” Signs

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:54:33 -0500

I have been informed this week of serious concerns related to "For Sale" sign placement in Virginia.

In an effort to help Miss Utility with protecting underground pipes, we are complying with the outreach program's call to action as related to placing "for sale" signs.

The State Corporation Commission has ask us to mark the spot on the lawn where we plan on placing your for sale sign. We will use little white flags instead of the recommended aerosol white spray paint in order to reuse the flags and protect the environment. Then we are to call Miss Utility and give them 48 hours to make any necessary markings to show where pipes may be located. After Miss Utility marks, I need to place the sign 2 feet away from any markings.

This 48 hour wait period will in no way affect placing your home in MLS and the internet - where most home searches begin. But it could help with protecting underground wires, and gas lines.

Here is a link to the full report.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask.

What's the Right Community for You?

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Sun, 31 May 2009 19:48:53 -0500

There's so much to consider when choosing a community. And even though Caroline and Spotsylvania Counties have their own general personalities, each subdivision has it's own feel.

Caroline still tends to be more isolated and rural. The prices are lower for the square footage. But there are more HOAs with fees to go with it. Even the two gated lake communities of Lake Caroline and Lake Land'or have different feels.

Spotsylvania is closer to shopping and community activities but the individual communities do not offer as much within themselves.

What are you looking for in a community?

Here are some items to consider when looking for the right community to make your home:

How far from work do you want to be located? Don't just consider mileage. Actually take the drive during rush hour traffic and see how long it takes to get "home."
How far from civic organizations (church, community ...
What needs need to be met for your family? (Price, size of home, solitude or neighbors for companionship)
What type of activities do you like to participate? If you like to go horseback riding, how far is the closest equestrian center? If you have an RV, is there parking for your RV?
Do you like to garden, do you like to dry you laundry outside on the line? Some communities have restrictions on what you can do to or on your property.
Water and sewer: Do you want to be on community water and sewer or do you want to be on your own well? Do you mind working within the restrictions of an alternative septic system (there's lots of these in Caroline now!).
Do you have to have high speed internet?

Other things you can do to help you find the right community.

Travel though the community at different times of the day - after school, after dinner, on weekends. This will help you get a feel for the age of the members of the community and the noise level.
Review the HOA Docs. Often you can pick up a copy of the HOA docs for $10 - $20. You may even be able to view them online at the community's webpage. It's time well spent before making an offer. Once you make an offer on a home and the full HOA disclosure package is received, you only have about 3 days to review. So the more you can review in advance, the better.
Check the annual dues and compare to how useful they are to you.

When looking at specific homes in the community of your choice, look for

Standing water and proper run off
Check out the neighbors - yards, pets, playground equipment for kids
Parking
Size and usefulness of the lot

There's so much to consider when looking at communities. Don't get overwhelmed. Focus on your top 3 needs and how this area makes you feel, and I'm sure your next place will feel like "home!"

My Interpretation of Earth Day

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:58:54 -0500

OK, I'll admit it. I'm not that big of an Earth Day fan. I'm not against Earth Day. I just don't go out of my way to celebrate it either. I recycle some things. I'd do more if our trash service offered recycle pick-up. I'm a member of our Caroline Freecycle group. And I try not to waste what we have.

But when it's time to clean out my girls' bedrooms, then I start filling the trash bags!

Earth Day did get me thinking about some of my favorite resources to remind me to take care of the natural supplies that the Lord has given to us.

#1 - Almost any book by Eric Slone.

But I really like this one - Once Upon a Time. I like how it tells you how they made tools out of wood and iron and how they lasted hundreds of years - how very little was wasted. This is what "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle" means to me. And if it breaks, you could mulch it, burn it, or turn it into something else.

Here's a link to other books by Eric Slone.

#2 - Vision Forum's Books for Boys

These books are getting back to basics about playing and building. No video games, iPods, or blogging. It's about using scrap materials, building supplies, and imagination. This 3 book set includes: How to Build Treehouses, Huts, & Forts, Fun Projects for You and the Kids and Backyard Ballistics. These books are also sold separately at Vision Forum.

#3 - Little House Books

I love all the Little House books. If I had to make butter or head cheese (eewww!), these books will practically tell you how. You could survive an 8 month winter, grow a garden, and build a sod house!

I also like the Kit Kittredge books by American Girl. Kit's life takes place during WWII and the books give lots of ways that families had to improvise and make the most of the little they had.

#4 - abcTeach has links for Earth Day Worksheets

I like the idea of making little posters to post around the house as reminders to not be wasteful. Check over the page and see if there's something you can use for your family. The top section is free. The bottom section is for members. Other webpages for families:

Finally, #5 - The Animaniacs' Universe Song

It just reminds us of what we are, how little we are, and yet, we're all special!

Have a blessed day, Everyone!

Tax Rates, Anyone?

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:26:37 -0500

I just added the tax rates for the local communities (real estate and personal property) to my personal blog. Instead of having stagnant information that could become incorrect, I thought it would be better to give links to the websites with the current tax rates. This should last – unless the county decided to redo their county webpage.

So if you go to CarolineVABlog and scroll back to the top of this blog and click on “Area Information” you’ll find the link. Or just click here, but I thought you might want to know where the info was stored for the future!

Did I miss any localities?

There’s also lots of other info on that page! If you think of something that would be useful on that page, let me know and I’ll try to add it!

Also, anyone notice how nice the Caroline County Website is looking these days?

Who Has Time for Spring Cleaning?!?

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:17:14 -0500

It's hard to balance work, family, community service, and all those other items that make each family unique.

Then someone comes around and says "It's time for Spring Cleaning and Maintenance!" - Fun, right?? Not!

We seem to never have enough time to do everything that needs to be done. And yet, new items pop up every day. Johnny needs new shoes by tomorrow. Mr. and Mrs. need to discuses that new budget now. Take food to sick church member.

But if we do not wax the car or maintain our homes, then we loose our investments. Personally I do not think of my home as an "investment," nevertheless it is an investment for a different home for the future. Otherwise you could just rent.

While it's still in the 50's, start gathering those supplies that you'll need when it's in the 70's. Look at that list of repairs that you made during the winter months (if didn't make one, start it today. Your email program should have a task list section that is perfect for this). And make maintenance day a fun project for the whole family! It really is better than watching old movies anyway. Take all those great ideas you learned this winter from Flip This House and HGTV and apply a few in the coming weeks.

Changing laptops is hard to do.

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:22:54 -0500

It's not often that I have a topic to write about to other agents. I pretty much stick to community posts.

But this week my new laptop arrived! I have not had time for twitter or reading my RSS feeds.

And when we're ready to transfer over the file, the external hard drive dies!

I'm getting ready to write a blog post about spring cleaning. Yes, spring starts tomorrow and work is picking up.

My point is that there's always something that has to be done and there's always something that does not get done in a day.

I still have a small stack of flyers and brochures to review from the NAR convention from November! At some point, most will become obsolete and I can just trash them instead of filing.

If I could just arrange my priority list in a way that I can still find time to get to the "when I have time" pile, I'd be happy. But until then, I'll be thankful that I have clients and plenty of work that needs to be completed today.

FREE Affordable Housing Seminar

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 20:33:44 -0600

FREE Affordable Housing Seminar

This class is geared for first time home buyers

with a purpose of educating and helping you to achieve home ownership.

Four Dates to Choose From...

Thursday's March 5^th & 12^th at 7pm

Saturday's March 7^th & 14^th at 3pm

Where: Coldwell Banker Elite: Massaponax Office

5444 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 100

Fredericksburg, VA 22546

Come learn about NO money down, 100% loans featuring FHA+, VHDA, RD, and VA. Lenders and Realtors on site to answer all your housing and financing questions.

Space is limited. Please RSVP to Ruth at 540-735-2640 or jointservices@coldwellbankerelite.com

Let me know which class you're attending, and I'll try to be there for your class.

Say hi before the class, and then we can chat about your housing options after the class.

If you have questions about this class, just ask!

"Is that Short Sale Price Legit?"

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 15:06:43 -0600

I've been keeping my eye on a specific Short Sale for $99K on Lake Land'or.

(If you need a review on Short Sales, click here.)

Every day I receive an updated list of homes that are for sale in Caroline County - new homes and price changes. Some days I'm shocked by the price of a home. Sometimes the price is so high that I wonder what the agent and sellers are thinking. Other times, the price is so low that I can't imagine the bank accepting the price. When it comes to "Short Sales" often the price is all over the board. Here's why...

When an agent looks at a home, there are several steps that need to be taken in into consideration. Have the sellers been in constant contact with their bank? How many months behind are they on their payments? Has the agent received permission to speak to the bank? Has the bank appraised the home and shared a price that they are willing to take for the property? ... At each of these points, the price may change.

When you see a foreclosure for $90K, then you know that the bank will actually accept that price. But if you see it as a short sale, it could be an abstract price. The short sale price may also be very low, because the seller can bring some funds to help off set the deficit (but not all), so it's still a short sale.

So if you see a "short sale" price, have your agent check with the other agent to see where they are in the process of working with the bank. Then decide how long you are willing to wait on answers from the bank. Decide how much more you are willing to offer if the bank does not like the offer. You do not KNOW that the original lender will accept the advertised asking price. There may be competitive offers. Which may drive up the price a bit.

Finally, don't be scared! The fact that the owner owes more on the home does not affect the buyer. Ask yourself if you want to call this place "home" and how much you are willing to do to make it a possibility.

"What's the Price of THAT Home?"

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:09:15 -0600

So you're out for a Sunday Drive when you see this cute little home for sale.

"I wonder how much they're asking for THAT home? But I don't want to call the number on the sign because I have an agent and the agent on the sign is representing the seller and not me."

What do you do? Should you write down the address and hope to remember to check when you get home???

Here's a much better option! Yes, I finally found a great webpage for running home searches on your phone.

On your cell phone, go to www.franklymls.com/caroline

Type in the address and the listing information should come up. That's all you need to do!

From home, you can use the same web page address to run more through searches if you like. But read the directions if you like using the site. Since the site is actually a wiki, you have to use key words to find what you're looking for. Read the directions so when you out and about, you'll know who to use it.

This is just one option, but so far it's the best option for your phone! Let me know how it works for you.

And thanks, Frank!

Hello, Renters!

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 18:51:26 -0600

This is a great article to inspire renter to purchase. Now we're still waiting to hear what the stimulus bill will actually contain, but either way, it will only be a benefit to first time homeowners.

Check it out!

http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20090213_buynow.htm

If you're ready to jump in the ring, but not sure where to start, I'm here to help!

February Fun

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 20:28:44 -0600

Registration for the Virginia Homeschool Convention just opened up. Yea! It's not till June, but it's time to start planning. I love times of refreshment: work, school, spiritual. Anyway, while I was at the Richmond Convention Center website, I also saw 2 events that might also be of interest for the month of February:

2/27/2009 to 3/1/2009 - 2009 Virginia Wine Expo www.virginiawineexpo.com - Exhibit Hall AB

2/7/2009 - CBS 6 Healthy Life Expo

And I am reminded that every February the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus come to the Richmond Coliseum.

And the Richmond Raceway Complex...

February 7-8	Richmond Gun Show
February 13-15	RV and Camping Expo
February 20-22	Boat Show
February 28	Richmond Kids Expo

I tried to find events for Caroline County, but it seems quiet in the county!

Another Benefit of Caroline County, Virginia

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 20:23:46 -0600

Your Kids might like this one!

Great Idea Gone Amuck!

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:47:24 -0600

So I had this great idea of posting a map of where high speed internet was located in Caroline County, VA. I was told by the guy who answered my verizon chat session in the Verizon High Speed internet department to call billing. Billing? Why billing?

Sanjeev: I would request you to contact our Billing Department as they will provide you the best support on your issue. The number is 800-567-6789 voice prompt "DSL Billing" 8 AM to 12 AM midnight (EST), available all days. I assure you that they would provide you the best support specifically for your issue.

Sanjeev: You can send an email inquiry to billingservices@verizon.net.

Of course, I did not save the part where he assured me that they had the info. Sigh...

Not that it would chance the fact that they do not have the info.

Apparently, it's a secret. Only the engineers know exactly where high speed internet is located.

So if you know a phone number for someone in engineering, I'd love to have it so I can ask for this map. They offer a map of cell coverage. Why not internet coverage?

It would help me to help more cleints if I knew where high speed internet was loacted in Caroline County. And Verizon would receive more clients too.

Maybe I'll contact Comcast and see if they have a map...

Four Hotels, Four Personalities

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:13:13 -0600

In the two weeks I was traveling to Florida and back, I stayed in 4 different hotels - with four different personalities.

Hotel #1 - I will never go back to again. I was afraid to leave my laptop in the hotel while I went out to get a bite to eat. The sheets were scratchy. The front desk clerk was smoking outside wearing an old sweater and slacks when I arrived. Breakfast was Little Debbie Individually packaged breakfast snacks. And the milk and juice were in containers I could not take with me to drink on the road.

Hotel #2 - I may not go back but for completely different reasons. It was very comfortable, but very expensive. Eco-friendly and Eco-style sitting room. The king sized bed enveloped me and I wish I could have slept in it more instead of only 6 hours a night between meetings. But the sitting room was very stiff. I loved the kitchenette and the maid even cleaned my dishes for me! They even had cards to remind you to strengthen your brai and your body.

But here's where it went downhill. When we booked the room, we knew it was going to cost a bit more, but I did not know that all parking was valet parking ONLY. I had to pay extra for that each day - at valet parking prices. Then every time I needed my car, I paid the valet a tip to get it or take it back. Thus, when I needed my phone power cord, it took me a few days to get it out of the car. And the hotel was not within walking distance of restaurants. So get your car from the valet or eat in the hotel. They had the snacks in the room. That's great! If I wanted to pay $8 for jellybeans or $4 for a soda, it was available in my room for me. But the vending machine with the soda for $1.50 was missing. So once again, you were put into a predicament of buying nothing or paying 400% more than usual - which would be taxed at the end of your stay. Always helpful, but always for an additional cost.

Hotel #3 - This hotel was kid friendly and fun! We got a great deal and the service was very polite. It did not include food, but there were plenty of food options available from inexpensive on up. It included free shuttle service. Parking was free. There was plenty to do with its resort setting. I would certinly go back.

Hotel #4 - Comfortable and clean. No breakfast, but we got coupons for the kids to eat free at the attached restaurant with we actually decided to use because it was clean and empty. The service of the hotel was a bit awkward though. Not very friendly and acted like I was doing them a service by staying with them instead of making me feel welcome and invited. It seemed like I was taking up their time from doing something more important. We had to take the plastic off the sleeper sofa (well at least we knew it was clean!). I'm not sure if I would go back to this hotel or not. It would depend on the other options at the exit.

One more note... It's not a hotel, but a town. Ad no, it was not Disney owned. We stopped in Jacksonville, FL for lunch one day. The Arby's was the nicest Arby's I've ever visited. Almost too happy! But you know what? I remembered them! And they made the whole family laugh! We also stopped at Starbucks before hitting the Interstate. They were all happy and bubbly too! And the next time we drive through Jacksonville, we will probably stop to see if they are just as polite and friendly.

OK. What's my point? There's several ways I can go with this.

In your job, what type of service do you provide?
Do you make your clients feel special?
Do you offer items in the name of service, but then make it so expensive that it's not used?
Where are the hidden fees?

These do not have to be just business, this could be in your personal relations or community volunteering too!

But the one question I want to ask is "What type of home environment do you create?

How does your home make you FEEL?

So often I'm running around trying to help my clients find that special home, but then I get home and I pull out the pizza. Now the kids say "yea!" but the husband does get tired of it. So here are some questions I asked myself about my home while I was traveling:

How often do I take TIME when setting the table? Does it all match? Are the utensils where they belong? Did we turn off the TV? How about a candle or other decoration?
My home may be tidy, but when was the last time it received a deep cleaning? Have I moved the couch pillows to vacuum lately? Do I need to clean the chocolate pudding or pen marks of the arms of the chair? Have I flipped my mattress lately to keep it even?
What special touches have I added to make my home feel warm and welcome? Does the family look forward to coming home so they can relax? Use your five senses here! Candles for smell. De-clutter for sight. Soft music in the background for sound. Texture and color in paintings and pillows - the feeling of joy or welcoming. Chocolate chip cookies or pumpkin pie ready for dessert?
What fun things do you add for the kids, your company or your spouse? Not just in their rooms. Folding napkins for dinner, towels and little soaps in the bathroom, cutting sandwiches for lunches, kid-sized tea cups when you have your coffee.

What types of touches do you like to see when you go on travel? Why not add them to your home!

Making Friends

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:06:56 -0600

I received an email question this week that I thought I would share with you along with my answer...

Hi, we just moved to the area and I have an only child who is six and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on how he can make friends in this area. Thanks.

Welcome to the area! There are several groups that meet on a regular basis between the Fredericksburg and Richmond Areas that you may want to consider.

The first thing I would recommend is finding a local church that you feel comfortable with. http://www.visitcaroline.com/churches.html

Since your child is 6, if he/she is in school, maybe you could invite some of his/her friends with moms over on a weekend for a play date.

I found that the Ashland Skateland usually has a group of people that attend every week on the same day and you two can make friends there. http://www.ashlandskateland.com/index.htm

There is a magazine/newspaper in Fredericksburg called the Fredericksburg Parent. In it, you'll find lots of groups and activities. http://fredericksburgparent.net

If you homeschool there are plenty of homeschool groups and co-ops in the area.

Try joining a local civic organization. Scouts, 4H, Little League, etc... http://www.visitcaroline.com/civic.html

The local library has lots of activities. And the same families tend to attend again and again. http://www.youseemore.com/caroline

Those are just a few ideas off the top of my head. If you're looking for something more specific, I may be able to help further.

For more area information, please visit the link at the top of the blog page that says "Area Information."

That's Just Wrong!

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 21:55:24 -0600

Woodstock eating Turkey...

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Giving Back

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:38:52 -0600

"The use of our possessions shows us up for what we actually are." -Tyron Edwards

I read a devotion this morning about remembering not just to build your own home, but also to build the home of the Lord. It reminded me of the huge list of charity organizations that need our help this season to make Christmas special to those that have less than us.

In our own family we are making huge cutbacks. Our trip to Disney was our primary Christmas gift to ourselves this year. Our oldest daughter has been making gifts for months from craft items she hides under her bed throughout the year.

Some people have decided to take on a 2^nd job to help pay for gifts or just to pay for the extra needs one finds during the holidays (travel, food, extra clothes, and heating bills).

But if we stop and look, we may be able to find $5 or a bit more to donate to other organizations above what we already give on a regular basis.

Here are a few organizations that I have heard about that are looking for donations:

Toys For Tots - If you're our and about Shopping at Cosner's Corner and you don't see a box to drop the toys into, come on over to the Elite office! We have a box inside!

The Red Cross - besides blood donations which are always needed, the Red Cross also help area children through letters to Santa providing toys and winter coats. Here is a link to our local organization with a link to the flyer.

Your local church

The area food banks: Glory Outreach, Social Services, and Fredericksburg Area Food Bank

Please feel free to share your local organization...

And if you end up being a family that receives a special blessing from a local organization, "count it all joy!" as the song says. I remember when our church would provide our family with a Thanksgiving Dinner or gift cards to Wal-Mart to purchase gifts for our 3 little girls. It was more then we could have done on our own. At the same time we had donated a few dollars to another organization. There is strength in numbers. When we put our donations together, we can make a big difference with 1 family at a time!

Changing Winds

Jennifer Rathbun (Coldwell Banker Elite ) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 22:47:46 -0600

It looks like we arrived home just in time to enjoy the Virginia foliage!

When we woke up this morning, the wind had knocked the leaves off the trees and into every nook and cranny around the yard - including the roads and the gutters.

Remember to clean your rain gutters and drain pipes a few times this season.

Be careful on back roads. There could be wet leaves or branches around the next turn.

And don't forget to disconnect your water hoses and drain outside faucets. If your outside faucets are not freeze proof, consider putting a thermal cover over them.

You may also want to:

Have your Heat pump serviced
Check weather stripping and caulking
Remove air conditioners from windows
Check storm windows/doors - clean/repair/install
Check for crack/holes in siding - fill if necessary
Take down screens/clean/store
Check roof for leaks - repair if necessary
Check flashings around vents/skylights/chimney for leaks
Check chimney for damaged caps & loose/missing mortar
Check/clean chimney flue - make sure damper closes tight

Preparation now will save you $$ and time when it's really cold and and dark outside this winter!