Norfolk Virginia Real Estate Blog

Great Home Value in Norfolk

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:08:37 -0600

Are you looking for space? This home in Norfolk has it! With more than 3000 square feet of living space, plus a full basement and a garage with extra storage, this home is currently listed at $389,900. Recent comps suggest a price in the mid-400s so this is a great value!

Unfortunately for the seller (me - owner/agent!) the home was under contract but it fell through. This is good news for your potential buyers and agents looking for a quick close. The home inspection has been done and there is a clear termite/moisture letter.

For closing by the end of the year, the sellers are offering $5k in Closing Cost Assistance.

Are you a first-time homebuyer or looking to move up to a larger home? You may qualify for even more savings through the governments home buyer incentive programs! Contact your lender or Jan Lui at NewTowne Mortgage

Great Homes in Norfolk

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:26:30 -0600

I am helping some wonderful people purchase homes in Norfolk right now! What fun! They are so nice to work with and the homes they have chosen are so different yet both perfectly in tune with our area.

The first is a new construction home in the upscale subdivision called East Beach. This was the site of our building association's HOMEARAMA about 5 years ago. Now the subdivision is about 75% built including the playground, tennis courts, and open spaces... not to mention access to the beach! All homes are considered executive style homes and abide by strict architectural guidelines.

The second property is a 1910 bungalow with a 2 car garage. This home is in one of Norfolk's Historic neighborhoods called Lafayette Residence Park. Lafayette and Winona, along with Gowrie Park and Old Lafayette Shores share a very active civic league. This great neighborhood is filled with not only bungalows, but cape cods, Victorians, and arts and crafts style homes. The dog park, playground and water views are additional features of the neighborhood.

There are more homes like this for sale in our area! Don't be shy - get out there are find the home of your dreams!

Hampton Roads Weathers the Storm

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:58:44 -0600

Just a quick note to say that Hampton Roads was really walloped by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. Our home, along with thousands of others, was without power for more than 40 hours. Many trees were felled, cars damaged by water, and basements inundated with rising groundwater (not so much flood water, thankfully!). We are glad for sunny days and power! Hope you all are surviving...

5 Things to ALWAYS buy GREEN

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:49:55 -0500

From Green America Today. org

1. PAINT: Look for no- or low-VOC paint

2. PAPER: Always buy recycled content and unbleached

3. LIGHT BULBS: Compact Flourescents are your first choice!

4. APPLIANCES: ENERGY is the way to go - save money! Save Energy!

5. Fruits and Vegetables: Select choices that are - Organic! Local! In-season!

(most important to avoid pesticides: Apples, bell peppers, Celery, Cherries, Nectarines, Peaches, Pears, Potatoes, spinach, strawberries - things with thin skins!!!)

14 November -- GREEN is....

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 12:41:12 -0500

Green is...Looking forward to celebrating 30 Years of keeping Norfolk Beautiful - Gala event coming 14 November - I have tickets -- who wants to join me??? Food by the BOOT! Live Music! Silent Auction! Recycled or Reclaimed Clothing Preferred!

Check out the website for more details or to buy tickets online. You can also give me a call! I have tickets available. THis is for a great cause - Environmental Education Scholarship fund!

Have a great time for a great benefit -- and get some of your shopping done for the holidays will be here before you know it!!

That time of year again!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:13:14 -0500

This weekend is Virginia's tax holiday on all things energy efficient and Energy Star Appliances. I have posted about this each year, so why change?? Thinking about a new washer, dryer, refrigerator? Need to reduce drafts for the winter months? Supplies and replacements may be part of the tax credit.

A quick review of the Virginian-Pilot showed some stores are offering discounts along with the tax holiday. Shop around and make that upgrade this weekend!

Check out the details on the Website!

For a good Cause

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:33:02 -0500

Join Friends of Norfolks Environment at the Norfolk Botanical Garden for a fun evening of music, food, and auctioning to benefit the ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND and to celecbrate the 30 year anniversary of Keep Norfolk Beautiful! Mark your calendar for November 14! Don't miss it! Give me a call for tickets or contact Keep Norfolk Beautiful! SPONSORSHIP Opportunities are also available - Get your name out there now!

Hampton Roads 2009 Solar Tour!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:41:46 -0500

Just another friendly reminder!!!

Date: Saturday, Oct 3, 2009

Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

The 2009 Hampton Roads Solar Tour is the first tour of its type to be held in the region. The purpose of the Solar Tour is to demonstrate and demystify solar, renewable, and sustainable technologies.

For this tour, 22 homes, facilities and businesses across Hampton Roads, both Southside and on the Peninsula, will throw open their doors, inviting visitors to tour and discover the benefits of alternative energy and green building for themselves.

In addition, Solar Services, Inc. is conducting a free workshop at 8:30am, The Basics of Photovoltaics, to discuss topics such as types of systems, benefits and drawbacks, basic operation, site evaluation, approximate costs, tax benefits, energy savings and more.

Click here to view the flyer. Click here to download the registration form.
Space is limited and pre-registration required.

Moving Tips for Sellers

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 12:32:11 -0500

•1. Give your forwarding address to the post office, usually two to four weeks ahead of the move.

•2. Notify your credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, and bank of the change of address.

•3. Develop a list of friends, relatives, and business colleagues who need to be notified of the move.

•4. Arrange to have utilities disconnected at your old home and connected at your new one.

•5. Cancel the newspaper.

•6. Check insurance coverage for moved items. Usually movers only cover what they pack.

•7. Clean out appliances and prepare them for moving, if applicable.

•8. Note the weight of the goods you'll have moved, since long-distance moves are usually billed according to weight. Watch for movers that use excessive padding to add weight.

•9. Check with your condo or co-op about restrictions on using the elevator or particular exits.

•10. Have a "first open" box with the things you'll need most-toilet paper, soap, trash bags, scissors, hammer, screwdriver, pencils and paper, cups and plates, water, snacks, and toothpaste.

IF you are thinking of selling your home, or would like to have your home for sale in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or other Hampton Roads city, I am happy to help! Call Me!

October 3rd - Coming Soon - SEE THE SUN!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:41:21 -0500

Hampton Roads to Participate in World’s Largest Solar Energy Event

More Than 5,000 Homes, Schools & Businesses Participating In
14th Annual ASES National Solar Tour To Help Hampton Roads Residents Combat Rising Energy Prices & Improve Property Values

On October 3^rd, local residents will discover the latest real-world insight on how neighbors are using solar energy, green building and energy efficiency to become more energy independent and environmentally sustainable.

On that day, 22 homes, facilities and businesses throughout Hampton Roads, both Southside and on the Peninsula, will throw open their doors, inviting visitors to tour and discover the benefits of alternative energy and green building for themselves.

The self-guided tours afford participants the direct perspectives of homeowners and installers about the costs, components, and economic and environmental benefits of going solar. A special VIP guided bus tour is available for a nominal fee of $5 and includes light refreshments and special gift bags.

See Norfolk Beautiful for more information!

Deals near the beach

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:11:33 -0500

I have written about this before but let me do it again - what a great time to buy an investment property, vacation home, second home, any home in Norfolk on the Bay! This great area in Norfolk's real estate market has seen dramatic price corrections over the past few years. Looking for a single family home? First time home buyer in Norfolk? How about a waterfront property with 3 bedroom 2 bath and almost 1300 square feet on Little Creek in East Ocean View? This home is listed for just $160,000! As a first time home buyer, you may qualify for the $8,000 credit from the government! This is a foreclosure so is being sold as is and repairs will likely be needed, but still!!! Only $160,000. Wow!

Not a fan of yard work? A condo might be right for you. If you are looking for bargains in the Norfolk homes for sale, consider another foreclosure just 2 blocks to the beach in Ocean View. This property is 2 bedroom, 2 bath and just under 1,000 square feet. It is one-level living with a fireplace, balcony, and looks great! With a low condo fee of $140, the price of $121,500 may be the bargain in real estate you are looking for!

Location of Condo:

I would be happy to show these homes to you! Give me a call! I hope to hear from you!

Amp up your Eco-Knowledge!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:44:44 -0500

Keep Norfolk Beautiful presents Eco-D.I.Y., a three-part series of classes designed to give simple energy-saving solutions to residents they can do themselves. All three classes take place at the Ernie Morgan Center, located in Lafayette Park, next to the Virginia Zoo.

What is Biodiesel?
Wednesday, September 9th, 6-8pm
Topic: Biodiesel fuel
Speaker: Michelle Moraczewski, NoBullBiodiesel.com Fee: Free for FONE members/$3 non-members
Register by September 2nd

Raining in the Storm
Wednesday, October 14th, 6-8pm
Topic: Rain barrel information and construction class
Speaker: Michael Minor, Mike's Rain Barrels
Fee: $50 for FONE members/$55 non-members
Register by October 7th

Cool Composting
Wednesday, November 11th, 6-8pm
Topic: How-to composter building demonstration
Speaker: Tom Chabi
Fee: $7 FONE members/$10 non-members
Register by November 4th.

To learn more about these classes, visit us online. Space is limited, so register early to Holly Carson at 441-1347 or holly.carson@norfolk.gov.

Two Photos Same House

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:02:12 -0500

Homes are taking over 90 days on average to sell in our area. On an existing listing that was first posted in the spring, I decided to withdrawal the listing during a recent price change. The photos were changed, along with the description, the virtual tour, and the photos in our database. Because are closer to fall now than summer (can you believe its almost September?!) I really wanted a photo of the house with the trees in full bloom. Unfortanately that means you can't see the great architectural features of the exterior.

Here are the 2 photos. What do you think?

This home for sale in Norfolk VAi s a move in ready 1912 Victorian with the great features of the era - pocket doors, picture rail, embossed radiators, maple floors, yet with updated kitchen, new sunroom, 2 car garage and more!

Wow - The Oceanfront is so beautiful!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 13:21:26 -0500

Do you ever get so busy you forget there are fabulous places to see and things to do right in your own backyard? If you are like me, it takes a visit from friends or family to get you spurred on to see new things that are right next door.

I had just that opportunity this weekend. The twist is that I have been to the oceanfront at VA Beach many times, just not this summer. I don't know where the days go but here it is, mid-August and I had my first beach trip!

Anyway I was just thrilled with the beach, the weather was great and the views lovely. If you are looking for a home, investment property, second home, vacation home, etc on the ocean, you have to consider Virginia Beach! I am happy to help you find just the thing!

Here is a picture taken with the Blackberry. It truly was this empty, the beach is so large and flat, the dolphins were so close to shore!

Bethany Phillips, Prudential Towne Realty and Beach Lover!

Unrelated to anything

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:44:06 -0500

Sailing tonight on Willoughby Bay, also known as Little Bay. Norfolk (all of Hampton Roads) is a great area for water sports of all kinds and sailing is just one of them. What makes Norfolk fun? Playing on the water. The Thursday night series is broken into Spring and Summer series. The fall series is on Sundays to accommodate for the earlier evenings.

Here is our boat (sometimes referred to as the USS Bethany, formally known as FINE) on a recent Thursday.(This photo is by Dave Baxter, a local Sailmaker. He provided the MAIN for FINE! Pretty!!! We are lucky enough to have Dave out on most Thursdays documenting the fun and the mishaps!)

I wish the photo would have the OSPREY in it! The osprey gets louder as the boats get closer and eventually 'sails' away to return after the mark has been rounded.

And of course, there is great opportunity for waterfront property in Norfolk and Hampton Roads. Great for investment or summer vacations!

Absorption Rates 23507 Norfolk VA

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:46:23 -0500

Just did some preparing for a listing appointment. I wanted to have some information available on market time for this potential listing. I took a look at recent sales and current listings to determine some estimated absorption rates for this particular property...

This is an area of GHENT in Norfolk VA. It is a great residential area, close to shops, downtown, dining, schools, etc. The information from my analysis varies depending on criteria used - no surprise there!

Looking broadly in GHENT Norfolk VA, there are about 132 homes for sale including single family detached and attached. In the past 6 months, 64 homes have sold for a 6 month month rate of about 10 per month. That means, simple math here, that it will be about 13 months before all homes are sold in my selected area.

Since the above review was broad, I wanted to highlight the exact zipcode for this property. In 23507, there are 39 attached single family homes for sale and 71 total homes for sale. Looking at the totals, 39 are pending or sold in 6 months with a target rate then of 6.5 homes per month. With 71 homes to sell, that is about 11 months to absorb the current listings.

For just the attached listings, 22 have been pending or sold in 6 months for a rate of 3.66 homes sold per month. With 39 current listings, the absorption of those homes could take 10 or 11 months.

This is food for thought for my potential sellers. The key will be to price it right from the start!

www.buyanorfolkhome.com

First Time Home Buyer Credit

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:52:35 -0500

There is so much buzz out there about the First Time Home Buyer Program I wanted to share a link to a great information source. Start with this website, then contact your lender to learn more about your particular situation. If you are in the Hamton Roads Real Estate market or searching for a home in cities like Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, or Suffolk, I would be happy to provide contact information for local lenders.

Dont forget, some cities offer their own home buyers programs and some programs may offer even better opportunities than the first time home buyer credit. You wont know until you ask!

Start with this site: http://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_credit?lid=ronav0019

Then, call me for more information on homebuying in Hampton Roads! I am happy to help!

Great house for a great family!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 07:35:49 -0500

I had so much fun helping my clients sell their first home and purchase their 'move up / forever' home! This lovely family had certainly outgrown the 1600 square foot cape cod in Norfolk! Their home for 8 years, they welcomed 2 children to the house and made many improvements such as a new kitchen that suited them, and the house, perfectly. That home has now become the first home for a Navy lieutent and his fiancee. I wish them the best!

The home purchase in Chesapeake is a delight! New construction in the Great Bridge area on a quiet street with a large yard for the children! I can't wait to see it all dressed up and personalized by the family.

If you, or someone you know, is looking to sell or buy a home, please contact me! I can help buyers or sellers in Hampton Roads with Real Estate needs in Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, or Portsmouth! I look forward to hearing from you!

Great walk through the Norfolk Botanical Gardens

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 07:45:17 -0500

I had a great walk last night through the Norfolk Botanical Gardens! It was a picture perfect day with low humidity, low heat, and evening clouds. The eaglets were out as were the flowers on the Crepe Myrtle trees, rose bushes, wildflowers in the Native Garden and more! A must see this time of year. Here is a bad, cell phone camera photo of the rose garden.

If you are moving to Norfolk or anywhere in the area, consider a membership to the gardens. They have bike rides, full moon hikes, flower sales, wonderful walking paths, and other events that make this a go-to spot any time of year.

Special thanks to my client (now friend) who joined me on the walk! It is one year exactly that she and her husband arrived in town to search for a home! What a great neighborhood they chose - Brigadoon in Virginia Beach. If you want to search for a home in Hampton Roads cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, or Suffolk, I am happy to help!

Apartment in Duplex available for RENT

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 07:53:43 -0500

Great historic area of Norfolk. Charm of the age with modern amenities!

Wood floors, decorative fireplace, lots of windows.

Central AIR, HEAT. Dishwasher, Washer Dryer.

Pay for electric and Cable - water sewer trash recycyling included in rent!

Updated Bath.

Downstairs unit with lots of space! 1400 Square feet or more. Great front porch.

http://norfolk.craigslist.org/apa/1223948513.html

Licensed Real Estate agent in Virginia!

Before and After

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:09:37 -0500

During a recent brokers open house I took the opportunity to ask the agents what the seller of my Norfolk VA home for sale should do about the color of the paint in the living room. Though almost all agreed that the color scheme was not offensive, they also suggested it could be a deterrent for a potential buyer. Many buyers do not want to go into a property knowing they need to tackle a large project such as removing wallpaper. Here is the original color scheme.

The seller chose a neutral tone for the living room. What a difference! The room looks and feels much larger, less cavernous. See the property for sale in Norfolk VA area of Hampton Roads at http://www.1603stdenis.info or http://www.1603stdenis.com. So, to all of the agents out there that have a house that hasn't sold.... take another look around the property... A small inexpensive change could make a big difference!

This living room is just one of the many fine rooms in this 3200 square foot home with updated kitchen, gorgeous sunroom, large yard, 2 car garage, full basement and more! See it today!

Bethany Phillips, Prudential Towne Realty 757 217 4200

http://www.buyanorfolkhome.com or http://www.bethanyphillips.com

I love Helping Buyers and Sellers!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Tue, 19 May 2009 17:47:38 -0500

I am working with a young couple that are just a joy to work with. I am having so much fun I can't believe some people call this work! Negotiations can be tough. Emotions can be high. But helping buyers find just the right house is great! And bringing a contract to a seller is tops!

I think I must be doing something right! I received two calls this week from new buyers. They had been referred to me by past clients. What a great feeling! I can help you find a home too! Give me a calll I am happy to help!

There are many Homes for sale in Hamton Roads cities of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Virginia Beach and beyond! Search for homes on bethanyphillips.com or www.buyanorfolkhome.com

Great First Time Homebuyer Option

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sun, 10 May 2009 21:52:02 -0500

Looking for a home in Norfolk? This is it! Lovely cape cod in great central location. Close to bases, beaches, shopping, restaurants, downtown, etc! 3 bedroom, 2 full bath. Garage, sunroom. Lovely yard. Playset stays with the home! All appliances included. PLUS sellers are offering 3% closing cost assistance on full price offer and a Great price it is! Well below comps! Just $209,000! Ask your lender about possibility of the $8000 first time home buyers credit!

www.205burleigh.info

Bethany Phillips, Prudential Towne Realty, 757 217 4200 www.buyanorfolkhome.com

You won't believe this home!

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:26:11 -0500

Gorgous Norfolk VA Victorian is now ready for you! Located in Lafayette Residence Park and built in 1912, the daugther of the builder still lives next door! The homes original features have been meticulously maintained -- maple floors, emobssed radiators, fireplace mantle, decorative windows. This home is a must see for you discerning Norfolk VA home buyers! More than 3000 square feet, a full basement, 2 car garage with extra storage on the second level! Walk in attic and central air are additional features your buyers will love!

Situated in the middle of a National Historic District this home is convenient to the community playground, dog park and the many churches in the area. A great location to accommodate a quick trip to downtown, the military bases, and the beaches of Norfolk and Virginia Beach! CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS!

Dont miss your chance to own this Home!

5 bedrooms, 2 baths, full basement, 2 car garage, and more!

www.buyanorfolkhome.com or www.1603stdenis.com for more photos!

Also for Hampton Roads real estate for sale, see homes for sale in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, or other cities in Hampton Roads!

NOrfolk River Ride

Bethany Phillips, MBA, ABR, EcoBroker (Prudential Towne Realty) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:06:15 -0500

Here is the website to register for the River Ride!