Pat's Relocation Blog

Springfield VA- Hang Your Crown in This Terrific New Kings Park Listing

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:18:04 -0600

Don't miss your chance to take advantage of the extended $8000 tax credit to buy this great home in the Kings Park neighborhood of Springfield. Perfectly situated for military families who are stationed at Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon or any of the Military District of Washington locations.

Call Cindy Jones at 703-346-2213 to schedule your viewing.

Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (RE/MAX Allegiance #1 RE/MAX Company in the World):

Coming this weekend in Kings Park in Springfield (VA) a remodeled King model situated on a quiet corner lot. The former two small main level bedrooms have been combined into a master suite with huge walk-in closet, extra vanity and updated bath. Enjoy the completely remodeled kitchen with new cabinents, counters and appliances. Upstairs are three bedrooms and a remodeled bath. The lower level has a recreation room and huge storage area. Hardwood floors throughout the main and upper level of the home.

This terrific home will be priced at $389,000. Get your checkbooks ready!

Read more about the Kings Park neighborhood:

It isn't hard to figure out what the developer of the first Kings Park was planning when they laid out the plan for the community and the homes. With one look at the street names Thames, Victoria, Trafalgar and Cromwell among others you might think you have made a trip back to England. Then when you add the names of the five original models; King, Queen, Princess, Duke and Duchess, you realize absolutely there is a royal connection!

Our family bought our very first home in Kings Park in 1981. Having just returned from five years overseas we were anxious to settle down for awhile and having grown up in Springfield it was an easy choice to make the original Kings Park the place to buy our first "real home." We were attracted to the neighborhood due to the mature trees, green space parks, community pools and easy commuting to our jobs. With the gentle slope of our 1/3 acre lot we were able to set up a zip line between the top of the back yard and the back fence which became a neighborhood hangout for the under 5 age group!

Since the neighborhood was first built over 40 years ago it has been popular with military families looking for easy access to the Pentagon or Fort Belvoir. Children attend schools in the Lake Braddock School Pyramid and both Northern Virginia Community College and George Mason University are close by. Public bus transportation, a VRE station and slug lines are easy to get to from anywhere in the neighborhood. Homeowners can walk to the Kings Park Shopping Center and even the Kings Park Library branch of the Fairfax County Library System.

When you want to take a break you walk or ride your bike through two different "back" entrances to Lake Accotink or for anyone who likes the challenge of dirt biking the nearby trails through Wakefield Park are considered some of the best in the area. Wakefield Park is also the location for the Audrey Moore Recreation Center where you will find an indoor pool and popular fitness center. During the summer Lake Accotink Park hosts free Friday night summertime concerts which are an absolute hit with everyone. Music ranges through swing, jazz, pop and rock. If you haven't seen your neighbors for a few days chances are you will find them there with a picnic basket and folding chairs

If you are interested in learning more about Northern Virginia Relocation, local neighborhoods or things to do give the Cindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213. No hassle, no pressure, just straight talk about whether now is the right time for you to buy a home in Kings Park or any Springfield (VA) neighborhood.

A Hint of Color to Brighten Up a Dreary Prince William County Day

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 11:00:33 -0600

It seems we have had an endless series of dreary fall weather. Hoped when I woke up this morning that the sun would be shining. Instead I had to take a walk in the Occoquan Nature Reserve and look for a little bit of color to brighten up the day.

Honestly This Could Be the Strangest Design Idea Ever

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:18:13 -0500

I don't want to violate copyright by posting the picture of this strange architectural design so you will have to follow the link.

Integrated Countertop Staircase

I'm sure that someone thought this was a good idea but using your kitchen counter everyday as a stair tread? Certainly we could come up with a list of reasons why this is a bad idea. No offense to the architect and designers but this won't show up on any of my future home design plans.

Dumfries (VA)-Spend a Night in a Haunted Museum

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:01:22 -0500

Once a year residents of Prince William County have the opportunity to spend the night in the Weems-Bott Museum and wait for the ghosts to appear. This is not a staged event but a chance for ghost watchers to see if a ghost appears during the night. Some have called the Weems-Bott Museum the most haunted house in Dumfries. Make your reservations by calling 703-221-.2218

Every Friday and Saturday night in October, 9:00 pm - 6:00 am, Weems-Botts Museum, Dumfries. $50 per person, no one under 16 without a guardian. Free Parking. *RESERVATIONS REQUIRED*

Model Home Furniture Sale in Gainesville's Heritage Hunt

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:36:55 -0500

It's that time again. Another great Amazing Grace Model Home Funiture Sale. This one is in Heritage Hunt in Gainseville.

Both Chris Ann Cleland and Cindy Jones are on the "insiders" list and hear about the sales before they are published to the public.

Don't miss it.

Via Chris Ann Cleland, GRI (Long & Foster, Gainesville, VA):

Don't miss the model home furniture sale in Gainesville's Heritage Hunt on October 31, 2009. This is a one day only sale, starting at 9am and ending at 2pm. Buy designer selected furniture, art and accessories from this Key West Style Condo plus more from another condo. Cash and Checks Only, ID required.

Directions to Heritage Hunt in Gainesville (for those unfamiliar) are as follows:

Take Route 66 West to Exit 43B (Route 29 North.) At the exit, bear left. At the traffic light cross Rt. 29 Lee Hwy onto Heathcote Blvd. Turn right at first traffic light at Heritage Hunt Dr. Sign in with the gate guard. Follow the Lennar signs to the condo models, first building on the right. Parking is in front of the building both condo buildings. The sale is in unit 103.

For more information on this sale, or to get on the email list for Model Home Furniture Sales all over the metro area, email Amazing Grace at amazingraceinc@gmail.com.

Chris Ann Cleland, Realtor- Licensed in Virginia, GRI & Short Sale Specialist. Affiliated with Long & Foster, 7526 Limestone Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155. To contact Chris Ann, call 703-402-0037 or email chrisann@LNF.com.

Don't Forget Virginia Energy Star Weekend Starts TODAY

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:08:51 -0500

If you've been looking to upgrade your appliances (to be more energy-efficient), here is some great news for you.

This coming weekend in Virginia, Energy Star Appliances and WaterSense Qualified products will be exempt from Virginia Sales Tac. Products must be for non-commerical use and cost less than $2500.

Per the Virginia Department of Tax Site:

"The exempt Energy Star items include dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, air conditioners, ceiling fans, compact fluorescent light bulbs, and programmable thermostats that carry the Energy Star designation."

This is a great opportunity to upgrade your appliances and save a few dollars in the process.

Speehless Sunday-Just Hanging Out at The Beach with Some Friends

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:23:26 -0500

Some folks say they go to the beach in North Carolina for years and never see the Wild Horses of Corolla. We took our 4 wheel drive down to the beach, pulled out our picnic table and evening cocktail and soon this crew came wandering out of the hills.

A few minutes later another group and then a Stallion came out as well. The horses are protected and since they are wild you can not feed them or try to lure them closer to you otherwise you might incur a heft fine. It is thought that the horses are decendants of Spanish horses which escaped when the Spanish landed iin the area in the 16th century.

No matter how they got to the dunes of the Outer Banks they are a wonderful sight to see as the sun is setting.

Clip Art Users-Have You Checked out the Upgrades?

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:03:16 -0500

If you are a subscriber to www.iclipart.com and haven't logged in recently go take a look.

They have done some nice upgrades to the site and they've added some terrific new graphics.

The new menu on the left hand side of the screen makes it easier to narrow down your choices. Some of the new 3D graphics are quite eye catching. Some of the graphics themselves might inspire a blog post or two.

The subscription rates are reasonable and you know when you use graphics from a site such as www.iclipart.com that you won't have any copyright issues.

Virginia Energy Star Tax Rebate Weekend October 9-12th

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 12:26:00 -0500

If you've been looking to upgrade your appliances (to be more energy-efficient), here is some great news for you.

This coming weekend in Virginia, Energy Star Appliances and WaterSense Qualified products will be exempt from Virginia Sales Tac. Products must be for non-commerical use and cost less than $2500.

This is a great opportunity to upgrade your appliances and save a few dollars in the process.

Lorton-Art, Wine and All that Jazz October 3-4th

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:50:54 -0500

Make sure you have marked your calendars for this weekends Art, Wine and All that Jazz event at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center.

Festival Hours:

Saturday from 11am-9PM
Sunday from 12-8PM

Enjoy wine tastings from a variety of Virginia and North Carolina vineyards as well as a line-up of Jazz musicans and of course the terrific artists who are a part of the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center.

You can read all of the details of the event on the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center.

Hope to see you there!

I Need Your Help. Your Reward? Great Blogs With Great Info. REBlogworld/Blogworld Expo In Las Vegas!

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:36:05 -0500

Looks like Matt is on a mission. I'm glad to lend him a helping hand. However if he wins I want him to put a dollar in a slot machine for me and give it a pull.

Via Matt Stigliano (RE/MAX Access):

photo courtesy of nodomain1

I love blogging.

You may have noticed before, but it's a fact, I love to blog about real estate. It's good for my business, but I actually find it enjoyable too. In that vein, I would like to make it to this year's Blogworld and New Media Expo (including REBlogworld). Of course, these things cost money and there are expenses...blah blah blah. However, Alltop is sponsoring a contest to allow 3 lucky winners to attend this year's event.

I entered, but I need your help. First of all, I misread a rule, which has seriously put me behind the curve. I thought I was doing okay, but realized that the rule was rather specific and I needed to get moving - so I turn to you, the ActiveRain community for help.

The grand prize for the contest is entrance to the conference as well as hotel accommodations. With those two paid for, I can deal with the flights and food for the three days. I need to win this. Imagine how many blogs I'll churn out when I get back with all the new info I've acquired. Think of me as your Blogworld corespondent. I will report back to you - all you have to do is get me to the top! I don't know what it will take to get me there (I don't even know who's in the lead), but with the power of the ActiveRain and Twitter community, I'm willing to bet (Las Vegas - get it?) that I can win this!

Imagine how this will benefit the ActiveRain community as well! Having the power of 160K+ members pushing to help me accomplish this goal will certainly make people think that ActiveRain is the place to be.

Here's what I need:

First, reblog this post if you can. By spreading the word, there will be more opportunity for more people to act upon it. Put it in every category you can think of and make sure everyone of ActiveRain's members see it! I could care less about the points gained from the reblogs, so ActiveRain can pull the points - this is about getting me to Blogworld and REBlogworld.

Second, you need to retweet the information necessary in order for me to be counted. Visit MyAlltop page and at the bottom you will see a "retweet" button:

Click the retweet button. Click it whenever you have a few free seconds. Tell your friends to click it. Please don't sit there and click it 100 times in a row. I don't want to get the boot for "stuffing the ballot box." The contest ends at 8:00 am Pacific Time on October 1, 2009, so I need your clicks up until then. Let's get as many as we can and show everyone the power of ActiveRain, get me to Vegas, and let me bring back and share all that I have learned!

Please use the retweet button and have everyone you know retweet it too! This would be huge for me and I appreciate all the help I can get!
All content ©2008-2009 by Matt Stigliano, Realtor® unless otherwise noted.

Matt Stigliano, Realtor®

RE/MAX Access

(210) 646-HOME

www.RErockstar.com

"Your all access pass to San Antonio real estate."

Connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.

Springfield (VA)-Check out the Fairfax County Recreation Centers

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:24:10 -0500

It doesn’t matter if you are young or old you can always find something to do at one of the nine Fairfax County Recreation Centers.

Want to take a class? Then check out the “Aerobics to Zoom” list of course available.

Want to work out? The each of the recreation centers offers you full work out facilities and many offer personal trainers if you need a little extra help. Want to swim? Each of the centers offers an indoor swimming pool.

Springfield (VA) is home to two of the recreation Centers; Audrey Moore & South Run.

Follow these links to find out more information on each of the Fairfax County Recreation Centers:

Audrey Moore RECenter
Cub Run RECenter
George Washington RECenter
Lee District RECenter
Mount Vernon RECenter
Oak Marr RECenter
Providence RECenter
Spring Hill RECenter
South Run RECenter

Springfield (VA) High School Pyramids forSpringfield Virginia

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:18:30 -0500

For anyone looking to buy a home in Springfield Virginia you will hear the term "school pyramid" used to describe the schools that feed into the four local high schools.

West Springfield, Robert E. Lee, South County Secondary School and Lake Braddock Secondary School are the four high schools at the top of the pyramid for children living in Springfield neighborhoods. There are multiple elementary schools that feed each of these schools. There are also elementary schools in the Burke Centre community that also feed to Lake Braddock and South County as well.

The following chart shows you the current schools assigned to each the top schools in the pyramid.

West Springfield HS Pryamid	Robert E Lee HS Pryamid	South County SS Pryamid	Lake Braddock SS

Washington Irving MS	Francis Scott Key MS	South County MS	Lake Braddock MS
Cardinal Forest ES	Crestwood ES	Newington Forest ES	Kings Park ES
Hunt Valley ES	Forsestdale ES		Sangster ES
Keene Mill ES	Garfield ES
Orange Hunt ES	Lynbrook ES
Rolling Valley ES	Saratoga ES
West Springfield ES	Springfield Estate ES

Lake Braddock and South County both have middle schools as part of their "campus" and do not have a separate feeder middle school. Detailed information about each of the schools can be found on the Fairfax County Schools site. You can also input the address of the Springfield property you are considering purchasing and find out which school is associated with that address.

If you are interested in learning more about homes for sale in Springfield call the Cindy Jones team of RE/MAX Allegiance a call at 703-346-2213. Cindy has a unique perspective on Springfield having grown up in the area and owned homes in every zip code. Let her knowledge of the area work for you

Springfield (VA) Cardinal Forest Condomiuniums Standing the Test of Time

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:08:43 -0500

Cardinal Forest today retains some of the same feel that it did in the 1970's when the neighborhood was first converting to condominiums from rental units. Still welcoming newlyweds, military families and retirees the community has matured and maintained its charm. Buyers and owners can say thank you to a diligent homeowners association which makes sure that the neighborhood has been well taken care of over the years.

Buyers may be surprised when they drive through the neighborhood at the wide variety of condominiums available in the Cardinal Forest neighborhood. There are one, two & three bedroom single level units, two level townhouses and a 2100 square foot three level townhouse as well. There are a total of 68 buildings and 1050 units that make up the neighborhood. The condominium fee in Cardinal Forest includes everything but your "plug ins" and whatever internet/cable/phone bundle you may choose.

Owners can walk to the Giant, Whole Foods, Starbucks and the Washington Sports Club, all within a mile. If you are commuting to DC or the Pentagon you are only a short step out your front door to catch the 18G express bus. The Springfield metro is 15 minutes away and if Fort Belvoir is your destination you can be at Tulley Gate within 30 minutes. Cardinal Forest also shares the back gate entrance to Lake Accotink Park, one of Fairfax Counties lake front parks along with the Charlestown neighborhood.

If a move to Springfield VA or anywhere in Northern Virginia is in your future give the Cindy Jones team at call at 703-346-2213. Having owned, lived and sold homes in every zip code in Springfield there is a good chance we can give you the straight scoop on many of our terrific neighborhoods. Our approach is no hassle, no pressure just a chance to meet and talk about whether buying a home is the right choice for you in today's market.

Gainesville, VA: Model Home Furniture Sale in Morris Farm

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:03:41 -0500

Wonder how you are going to furnish all those rooms in your new home? Take advantage of the great sale on Model Home furniture this weekend in Gainesville.

Via Chris Ann Cleland, GRI (Long & Foster, Gainesville, VA):

Gainesville, VA: Model home furniture sale in Morris Farm, September 26th & 27th.

Amazing Grace is at it again! This time, there will be two fully decorated models, a partial model and one garage full of desks. Dates and times as follows:

Saturday, September 26, 2009, 10am-4pm

Sunday, September 27, 2009, 10am-2pm

The models hosting the sale are located at the addresses below:

8916 Song Sparrow Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155

8857 Yellowhammer Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155

As per all Amazing Grace Model Home Furniture Sales, this is a cash/check and carry event.

To get to the Morris Farm subdivision, exit Route 29 S to Gainesville from Route 66. Take a left on Linton Hall Road. Follow 2 miles and make a right onto Rollins Ford Rd. Yellowhammer is right off of Rollins Ford.

Lake Ridge-Fall Has Arrived and So Has Fall Fun

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:13:03 -0500

The last few days in Lake Ridge have been a reminder that fall weather is on the way.

The fall activity calendar has been published by the Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association.

Residents can enjoy the following events throughout the coming months.

Lake Ridge Yard Sale
September 26
12530 Oakwood Dr (Parking Lot)
8 AM to Noon

Fall Festival
October 31
12298 Cotton Mill Dr
10 AM to 2 PM

Wine Country Bus Trip
November 14
9:30 am to 7 PM

Turkey Trot 5K Walk and 10K Run
12350 Oakwood Dr
Hilly course for all ages and levels

For more information on these events and other happenings in Lake Ridge head to the Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Website.

If you want to make Lake Ridge your home then give Cindy Jones a call at 703-346-2213. Check out our current listings in Lake Ridge.

Springfield (VA)-Preparing for the Influx to the New NGA Facility

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:05:05 -0500

It was announced today that some agencies in leased space in Arlington will be given until 2014 to make the move to Fort Belvoir. The infrastructure work will not slow down as eventually the 20,000 plus personnel will desend on the area.

Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (RE/MAX Allegiance #1 RE/MAX Company in the World):

The evidence of the BRAC deadline for development and movement of personnel is starting to take shape in the Fort Belvoir area. Not only can you drive through the main post and see the changes but outside the gates local neighborhoods can see the impact as well.

Two of the most visible projects in Springfield include the extension of the Fairfax County Parkway along Rolling Road and Fullerton Roads and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) building. The final leg of the Fairfax County Parkway has been on the books for years waiting funding. The push to ease the impact of 8500 personnel headed to the new National Geospatial Intelligence Agency building at the old Engineering Proving Grounds in Springfield has made the road a reality.

Now as you exit the parkway at Rolling Road instead of seeing the woods and fences that hid the grounds from sight you see the long stretch of future roadway and the dust from earthmovers. Utility lines along Rolling Road by the Saratoga neighborhood are being moved in anticipation of the widening of the roadway there as well. The new NGA building is a little harder to spot but you can see it emerging from the tree tops off of Fullerton Road.

Now that the road work is well underway some nearby neighborhoods are starting to realize that what they though would never happen is indeed true as shown in this
Fox 5 News Clip.

Though only a small portion of the new jobs coming to the area due to BRAC are from outside our region, there are transferees coming and they are looking in neighborhoods close to Fort Belvoir. If you find yourself coming to the Fort Belvoir area as part of the BRAC changes or with PCS orders give the Cindy Jones Team a call at 703-346-2213. We understand the stress of relocation and are ready to help you make a smooth transition to Fort Belvoir and the surrounding areas.

Will There Be Another Glut of Foreclosures on the Horizon?

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:58:12 -0500

Most agents are thinking foreclosures will be what dominates 2010 but Chris Ann Clelland has a great take on our future and it is short sales.

We are seeing more short sales make it to closing and even a few banks who respond in a reasonable time frame!

Via Chris Ann Cleland, GRI (Long & Foster, Gainesville, VA):

Will there be another glut of foreclosures on the horizon? If you watch news programs that predict market activity, they certainly are predicting more foreclosures hitting the market. A wave of Option ARMS are going to reset soon, and that means plenty of home owners who were making interest only payments, or partial interest only payments, will be facing increased payments as their mortgage adjusts to principal AND interest, amortized over whatever period of time is left on their 30 year loans. Scary thought.

The properties that are secured by these Option Arms may never make it to market as foreclosures. Why? Because many markets, like my own have been educating the public in Short Sales. Knowing that they could avoid foreclosure, save a huge credit hit, and work with the bank to sell their home before it is repossessed, why on earth would a homeowner let a property go to foreclosure?

Even home owners that declare bankruptcy can sell their homes in short sales. The two are not mutually exclusive.

Short sales hold benefits for both the sellers and the mortgage holder(s). The benefit to a seller, particularly those that hold security clearances with government agencies, is avoiding foreclosure and a large hit to the credit that comes with foreclosure. The benefit for the bank is that they save thousands of dollars in legal fees, and lost time on the market, by not having to repossess the property.

So if you are waiting for another round of foreclosures to hit the market, don't be too surprised when you see the market hit with a glut of short sales instead.

Northern Virginia's Definition of Short Sale Approval

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 06:44:23 -0500

This is a great concise post on what constitutes a short sale approval!

Via Chris Ann Cleland, GRI (Long & Foster, Gainesville, VA):

Northern Virginia's definition of short sale approval generally boils down to the following sentence:

Approval by lienholder(s) to accept the net proceeds from the sale of the the home as full payment for the underlying debt.

This sentence may be worded slightly different in the various versions of the short sale contingency addendums ciculating in the Northern Virginia market, but the message is the same. The definition revolves around two important phrases: NET PROCEEDS and FULL PAYMENT.

More and more lienholders are asking for additional money from the short sale sellers in the forms of cash contribution or a promissory note. If a lienholder has written a short sale approval letter accepting the terms of a short sale contract, and are asking the sellers to repay $15,000 over 10 years as part of the approval letter, is that short sale approval?

The answer is NO.

The above scenario means the lienholder is NOT accepting the proceeds of the sale as payment in full for the loan. They are seeking additional money. When this scenario pops up, the short sale approval contingency has not been removed.

Why is this so important? A short sale seller is not contractually obligated to accept any terms that do not have the lien holders taking the net proceeds of the sale as payment in full for their loan(s).

If you are thinking of selling your home in a short sale situation, or thinking of buying one, it is important to know the contract contingency on which your sale will be dependent. More importantly, it is critical that the Realtor you hire to represent know the contingency inside and out.

Chris Ann Cleland, Realtor (Licensed in Virginia), Short Sale Specialist

703-402-0037, chrisann@LNF.com

Shipping Out From Northern Virginia? Check to See if You Qualify for HAP

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:35:23 -0500

We are fortunate to be working with a number of Fort Belvoir families who qualify for the Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP).

If you have PCS orders and need solid advise from an agent who is working with families in your same situation give Cindy Jones a call at 703-346-2213. Let her personal knowledge of military relocation and her professional expertise with the HAP program to work for you.

Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (RE/MAX Allegiance #1 RE/MAX Company in the World):

Military families stationed at Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon, Quantico and other Military District of Washington installations who purchased a home prior to July 1, 2006 may find that Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) may offer some relief if you have upcoming PCS orders to move.

This week I have listed two homes for sale with families applying for HAP benefits. The official guidelines for the program are expecting to be released within the next 10-14 days and already the counselors for our area indicate they have over 1500 applications waiting. One of the requirements for application for HAP beneits is to be actively marketing your home for sale.

The HAP program is aimed towards helping:

Active Duty Military Personnel with PCS orders who are upside down on their mortgage
Wounded soldiers who must relocate due to medical conditions (wounded after 9/1/2001)
Surviving Spouses (death of military member after 9/1/2001)

According to the Homeowners Assistance Program information the Department of Defense (Dod) will reimburse the covered groups up to 95% of their loss if their homes was purchased prior to July 1 2006. Each covered group may have different percentages covered which the final regulations will outline.

If you live in Northern Virginia and you are anticipating PCS orders this summer and you qualify for HAP, now is the time to start gathering your documents. You may call the HAP Field Office for our area (located in Savannah) at 800-861-8144 for additional information but you may find that due to the volume of calls that you might not be able to speak to a counselor at this time.

If you are looking for an agent to market your home who is already working with families applying for HAP benefits give the Cindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213.

Download information on how to apply for the HAP program.

Prince William County (VA)-All Condos Are Not the Same

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:31:44 -0500

Recently some friends were trying to decide if buying a condo was in their future. As they were checking out various condominiums developments in Prince William County they quickly learned that the differences from building to building can be huge.

We aren't talking about condo fees, something every buyer needs to consider when they are looking at their budget but instead they were focusing on construction.

Many of the older "garden" style condos that they looked at reminded them of their days in a college dorm. But what they noticed the most was the noise! If they were looking at lower level units they could hear people walking around upstairs. They heard toilets flushing and when people walked by on the outside stairwells they could hear their conversations. The noise was a deal breaker and eliminated the garden style condos from their list.

Then they checked out the only highrise in Prince William County in Belmont Bay and noticed how quiet it was. Buildings constructed out of poured cement and steel are far quieter than stick built construction. They also found what they labeled "hybrid" buildings. Stick built "mid-rise" condos with a thin layer of concrete poured over the standard sub-floor to help buffer noise between floors.

It made them realize that not all condos are built the same and looking beyond the glitzy kitchens and clubhouses was going to play a huge role in their decision process.

Now they are going back to each of their top three choices at night to listen for the neighbors. If they can hear them loud and clear then the condo is off their list. They can't afford a penthouse overlooking all of the DC monuments so they are being realistic but before you sign on the dotted line for a new condo you may want to follow their lead. Go back at night or on the weekend and make sure you can live with the noise levels in your new condo.

Lorton Workhouse Arts Center-An Insiders View

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:16:31 -0500

It is hard to believe but the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center is celebrating it's first anniversary this weekend.

There will be a number of FREE events throughout the day for everyone to enjoy. As a volunteer at the center I've enjoyed a number of events while helping out this terrific organization.

If you are in Lorton this weekend stop by and see what you have been missing.

Lorton Workhouse Arts Center Anniversary Schedule

Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (RE/MAX Allegiance #1 RE/MAX Company in the World):

One of the benefits of being actively involved in the Occoquan River Communities is the opportunity to get a "sneak peek" at one of the biggest success stories in redevelopment in Lorton. The Lorton Workhouse Arts Center is getting ready for the grand opening the week of September 19^th -27^th with multiple events planned throughout the week. The week starts with a classic concert concert-pianist Pedja Muzijevic and culminates with the grand opening gala featuring Tony Award winning singer Barbara Cook.

Artists who have studio space are just moving in and getting themselves settled. The staff is putting in long hours to make sure that everything is ready for the crowds who will be coming to check out the new center and registrations are starting to come in for the upcoming classes being taught this fall.

The history of the Lorton Prison and its connection to our area goes further back in time that many might imagine. From the Women Suffragists imprisoned in 1917, Nike Missile Base in the 1950's and some famous prisoners including Norman Mailer, the prison has seen its share of changes. The buildings on the site themselves tell the story from agricultural beginnings with the barn built in the 1920's to the maximum security cells added in the 1980's.

Residents of Fairfax County are fortunate to live in an area where the vision of the reuse of the 3200 acres that made up the Lorton Prison site has become a reality. Additional buildings on the are still to be refurbished but the area has come along way from the initial planning meetings and this "jewel" of Lorton will be one that we all can enjoy long after the grand opening events.

Previous Posts on the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center and Lorton Redevelopement

Artists Take Over the Jail Cells
Reminders of Prision Life in Lorton VA
Where Old Fences Meet New in Lorton
Nike Missiles and Prisoners-Not Your Usual Neighbors
A New Community Blossoms Where Prisoners Once Lived

©2008 Cindy Jones. "Lorton Workhouse Arts Center-An Insiders View"

Model Home Furniture Sale in Manassas, VA

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:58:16 -0500

Thanks to Chris Ann Clelland for posting this information. The last sale I scored a new bedroom set at a great price.

Via Chris Ann Cleland, GRI (Long & Foster, Gainesville, VA):

Ready for a model home furniture sale in Manassas, VA?

Amazing Grace will be conducting a model home furniture sale in Manassas on September 19th and September 20th in Chatsworth Village. Hours below:

Saturday, Sept. 19th, 9am-4pm

Sunday, Sept. 20th, 10m-2pm

The model home where this sale will be held is located at 1118 Wortham Crest Circle, Manassas, VA 20109. From Route 66, exit Route 234 Business South. Take a right on Sudley Manor Drive. Go about 1 mile and take a right onto Chatsworth Drive. From there, the community is on the right. Follow the signs to the model home!

Choose from furniture, art and accessories in this professionally decorated model. Items must be paid for by cash or check. IDs required. Items purchased must be removed by 2pm Sunday.

*Please note: Amazing Grace Inc.is conducting this model home furniture sale. If you have questions about the sale, or any upcoming events, please email Amazing Grace at amazinggraceinc@gmail.com.

Belmont Bay-Terrific Rental Property Waiting for You!

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:03:39 -0500

For more information on this condo in Belmont Bay or other Belmont Bay rentals call Cindy Jones at 703-346-2213

Photo Gallery

Kitchen	Kitchen	Living Room
Custom FP	Den	Dinin Room
Master Bedroom	Second Bedroom

Description

There isn’t much more you can say than “move right in!”

Light and bright condo in sought after Belmont Bay is ready for a new tenant. Enjoy all the amenities that Belmont Bay and Harborview Condominium have to offer. With 2BR/2BA this 1850 SF condo offers you plenty of space to spread out.

Large living room with den extension features a custom fireplace. The kitchen has granite counters, loads of cabinets, a pantry and updated appliances. The master suite is huge and has a walk-in closet and private bath. The nice size second bedroom has its own bath. Full size washer and dryer are in the unit as well.

Harborview Condominium is the only building in Belmont Bay with a private pool, on site management, party room and exercise facility. Condo comes with underground parking space. Talk a stroll on the waterfront walking paths, play a round of golf at the Osprey and with easy access to Fort Belvoir, Quantico or the Pentagon it is a great location for military families. Don’t miss your chance at this terrific condo!

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Located on Floor #:	2
Floors in Bldg:	9
Square Footage:	1850
Parking Spaces:	1
Property Type:	Condo
Pets Allowed:	None
Year Built:	2005
Agent Name:	Cindy Jones
Broker:	RE/MAX Allegiance

Location

485 Harbor Side Street Woodbridge VA 22191

vFlyer Id: 2633991

Lake Ridge (VA)-Enjoy Lake Ridge Ammenities in this Great Townhouse

Pat Fenn (Marketing Specialist for Cindy Jones RE/MAX Allegiance) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:11:26 -0500

Call Cindy Jones at 703-346-2213 for more details and to schedule a showing of this new Lake Ridge listings

Photo Gallery

Kitchen	Eating Space	Living Room
Deck	Recreation Room	Master Bedroom
Master Bath	Master Bath

Description

Are you looking for a new place where the woods are at your back door and you can walk to the water at the Occoquan Reservoir? Then this townhouse in the Ridgeleigh neighborhood in Woodbridge should be on your viewing list.

The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile floor and a sunny bay window for your table. The living room dining room combination ha two sets of sliding glass doors that lead to the deck overlooking the trees.

Head downstairs to a recreation room with another double set of sliding glass doors. Step outside and enjoy the quiet. The lower level also has a “bonus” room for an office, full bath and utility room.

On the top level check out the amazing master suite. With cathedral ceilings the room provides loads of interesting nooks and crannies. The master bath is in the loft overlooking the bedroom and features a soaking tub with jets, dual sink vanity and separate shower.

Enjoy walks to the Occoquan Reservoir, fish at Lake Ridge Park and play a round of golf at Old Hickory Golf Course. This and many more activities are just a short distance from your front door. Commuting to DC is easy with multiple connections to public transportation and shopping centers close by include major grocery stores and restaurants.

Call today to schedule your tour of this great home.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	3.5
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1995
Subdivision:	Ridgeleigh
Attached on:	2 Sides
School District:	Springwoods
Square Footage:	2100
Agent Name:	Cindy Jones
Broker:	RE/MAX Allegiance

Location

11614 Nellings Place Woodbridge VA 22192

vFlyer Id: 2754593