Charlottesville Real Estate Blog - Charles McDonald

Charlottesville Downtown Mall (The RAP version)

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:55:12 -0600

I have to say that I did not know there was so much talent in Charlottesville. These two are really good and have spent a great deal of time and research to put this Rap song together about the Charlottesville Downtown Mall.

I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did and share it with others.

I have to say thank you to these two for their efforts, it is really something!

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

I have a home listed that will not sell in Charlottesville, can you help?

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:17:17 -0600

I have a home listed that will not sell in Charlottesville, can you help?

Just got this question and after a little research the problem was obvious...

Many times a seller (listed with another agent) will approach me with this question. What they want to do is "switch" to a new agent and see if the new agent can sell the home. The interesting thing is that most sellers do not realize (or maybe they are not informed) that the listing agent they have hired is likely doing his/her job just fine. they are the listing agent and they are actively listing the home. Maybe the marketing is a little weak, but I can tell you as a buyers agent, if it is listed, I will find the home and so will my buyers.

If a home is not selling it is most often the price or condition of the home. If you can not adjust to the market conditions, a "switch" in listing agent will not help....

Let me know if you have any questions?

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

CHRISTMAS are you with me? (Santa is Back)

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:37:53 -0600

Some of you have noticed last year that I slowly changed in appearance. Some say I look better, some say I need to smile, some say I need to shave and some do not like my hat!

Here I am on facebook and twitter

Some say I have lost my mind! LOL

During the first 11 months of the year I am a Real Estate Broker in Charlottesville.
Then the holidays roll around and I HAVE A JOB TO DO!!!

I am going to spread the JOY of CHRISTMAS on my BLOG and in Active Rain!

NOTE: If you do not like my posts (do not read them). If you do not celebrate Christmas (I respect you) please respect me too and do not tell me why I should not post about Christmas!

If I comment on one of your posts, I may add a “Merry Christmas” at the end. This is my way…. If this bothers you, then you have the right to delete my comment or send me an email and I will remove it (out of respect for you). But please do not lecture me about being “Politically Correct”.

This is my way of saying that I want CHRISTMAS in my Life and I am not going to bow down to the “political” pressure. We live in America and we can all celebrate what we choose! This is what makes this country great. The reason we broke away from Britian is because we wanted “freedom” and this is where we came from and this is why we are here….

This year I again will challenge you to:

Have the “Christmas Spirit” in your heart.
Post about your Christmas season!
Add a “Merry Christmas” to your posts!
Enjoy the holidays and spread cheer!

ARE YOU WITH ME????

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

My Blog Buddy (exposed)

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:58:30 -0600

Ok so I am busted, I have a Blog Buddy and he helps me a lot when I need inspiration.

No it is not another agent, not my spouse or even a friend on active rain.

Today, I am fighting a cold and decided to pull the laptop out and read a few posts on Active Rain

Well guess who showed up? That's right my Blog Buddy!

Oh yes and by the way, his name is "Buddy"

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

I think simple is best when it comes to Christmas Lights...

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:32:41 -0600

When it comes to decorating outside for Christmas, my wife and I have come to the conclusion that “Simple is Best”.

We used to decorate way over the top but now we do simple displays such as the 2 deer on the side of our driveway:

A simple Red Ribbon on each deer and that is all! Of course the one grazing is animated…

We also have a few strategically placed wreaths on the outside of our home with spotlights to accent them at night!

The one pictures here is about 3 feet in diameter.

Oh and for another idea we put a smaller wreath on the mailbox.

Next is the front door. We have 2 topiaries wit lights and of course another wreath on the front door with a red ribbon….

This is very welcoming for visitors!

Here is a shot of the front of our home all lite up for Christmas:

Notice the CHRISTMAS TREE in the Window on the Right.

Not way over the top, we think that “Simple is Best!”

MERRY CHRISTMAS from the McDONALD’s!!!

(we would love to see photos of your decorations!)

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Yes, even Charles was young once! (Merry Christmas)

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:16:04 -0600

I am the one of the Left, Not the Right :)

This is one of the few photos that I have of me as a child. It sits on my piano next to pictures of my children. It is hard to believe that I was once this young. Time is so fast when you are not thinking about it.

I hope that you all enjoy your time together and a very Merry Christmas to all!

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Wordless Wednesday - I just woke up

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:22:03 -0600

I just had to laugh when I saw this photo, looks like he just work up!

---

About The Author

Charles McDonald, Associate Broker at RE/MAX Assured Properties and dedicated Buyers Agent is the author of this blog, and several other sites on the Internet. Charles and his group of experts in the Charlottesville area are always available to help you with your Real Estate needs. Call our group anytime at 434-981-1585 or to search for homes visit: Charlottesville Real Estate

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Albemarle Home Sales vs DOM (Days on Market)

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:26:59 -0600

Take a look at these charts. There is a lot of information here and can you spot the trends?

Here is an overlay with Sales vs DOM (Days on Market)... now do you see the trends?

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Homes in surrounding Counties of Charlottesville

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:55:32 -0600

Homes in Surrounding Counties

The surrounding counties of Charlottesville Virginia offer unique homes and large parcels of land within driving or commuting distance to Charlottesville. Charlottesville Real Estate Group does include these areas. So if you are looking for that grand estate or you just want some private land, remember to look at these areas...

Greene County is located close to NGIC and the Northern part of Albemarle County.

Madison County, North of Albemarle along the Blue Ridge Parkway with beautiful landscaped homes and estates.

Orange County, home of James Madison, has gentle rolling hills and beautiful landscaped homes and estates.

Louisa County is East of Charlottesville with open land and water sports available on Lake Anna.

Fluvanna County has Lake Monticello, reasonable prices with a short drive to Charlottesville.

Nelson County has Wintergreen resort for snow skiing and golf. Incredible Blue Ridge mountain views and homes and vacation homes at reasonable prices. Charlottesville is just a short drive.

Real Estate in all the surrounding counties are listed in my one-click search. Please take a few minutes to see some of the homes, real estate, land and farms and let me know how you like it!

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Albemarle sales vs last year

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:07:16 -0600

I really really like to look at numbers and this comparison of how we are doing in the Charlottesville Real Estate market are quite revealing. Note what price ranges are selling vs the same time last year. Certainly last year was not a great year but these numbers will help you to see where the market is moving.

Sold Price	Last Year	This Year	Last Yr Vs This Yr
	01/01/2008-11/28/2008	01/01/2009-11/28/2009
$0 - $99,999	2	19	850%
$100,000 - $149,999	52	44	-15%
$150,000 - $199,999	96	117	22%
$200,000 - $249,999	132	154	17%
$250,000 - $299,999	141	174	23%
$300,000 - $349,999	96	103	7%
$350,000 - $399,999	89	72	-19%
$400,000 - $449,999	55	41	-25%
$450,000 - $499,999	47	31	-34%
$500,000 - $549,999	31	38	23%
$550,000 - $599,999	31	21	-32%
$600,000 - $699,999	53	34	-36%
$700,000 - $799,999	21	30	43%
$800,000 - $899,999	17	11	-35%
$900,000 - $999,999	19	10	-47%
$1,000,000 - $1,499,999	24	18	-25%
$1,500,000 - $1,999,999	8	6	-25%
$2,000,000 - Above	15	9	-40%
Total	929	932	0.3%

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Albemarle Virginia Real Estate Information – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:51:06 -0600

I like to wait a few days after the end of the month to look at market data. Seems we have some agents that are a little slow at adding closing to our MLS.

When you are looking for Charlottesville Real Estate remember that Charlottesville is in Albemarle County. We have grand estates and horse farms in Albemarle. The back roads will give you a feeling of peace and harmony as you drive by these beautiful properties. When you are ready to tour, just give me a call, it is myfavorite thing to do in our area.

(photo taken by Charles McDonald of the driveway of a past listing of mine in Albemarle Virginia…)

Albemarle County Virginia Home Information

The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Charlottesville and Albemarle are no exception. It takes a drive around Albemarle to understand and enjoy the beauty of this area.

In Albemarle we have SOLD 931 HOMES.(+60 homes from last report)
There are currently 940 HOMES on the market. (-45 from last report)
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 111 Days .(+1 from last report)
Our Average selling price is $396,272 ($400,321 from last report)

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Virginia Real Estate Information – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:46:53 -0600

We talk a lot about Statistics when it comes to real estate. Let’s look a little closer at Charlottesville Real Virginia Estate.

Have you heard about Charlottesville Virginia? You deserve to have the quality of life that Charlottesville has to offer. We are a small town that has everything you want to enjoy life. Think about visiting soon…

(Photo – taken in downtown Charlottesville Virginia at Court Square by Charles McDonald)

Let’s Talk Charlottesville Real Estate!

We are very fortunate to live in such a wonderful area. We have four season, Blue Ridge Views and theUniversity of Virginia! Sales are starting to pick up in Charlottesville and our year is moving along nicely!

In Charlottesville City we have SOLD 416 HOMES.
There are currently 315 HOMES on the market. (+4 from last report)
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 124 Days . (+1 from last report)
Our Average selling price is $274,182 ($276,512 from last report)

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Virginia Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Nelson Virginia – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:42:55 -0600

Looking for Views? Skiing? Privacy? located just South West of Charlottesville is the incredible county of Nelson. With graceful roadways and the Blue Ridge Parkway Nelson is a truly magical place. The Afton area is truly amazing! We also have Wintergreen Resort for Snow Skiing and great golf! When you are looking forCharlottesville Real Estate remember Nelson County our Southern neighbor! Let’s take a tour together!

(photo taken by Charles McDonald with his family in Nelson County!)

The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Nelson County Virginia is too.

In Nelson we have SOLD 118 HOMES.
There are currently 389 HOMES on the market.
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 164 Days.
Our Average selling price is $339,527.

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Greene Virginia – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:39:28 -0600

Greene County is just North of Charlottesville and offers beautiful properties at great prices. Greene County is an excellent choice for clients moving to NGIC. See NGIC Real Estate I recently compared the cost of new construction from Greene to Albemarle and was shocked at the difference (my clients are made aware of these comparisons). When you are looking for Charlottesville Real Estate remember Greene County as it is not far from Charlottesville and has some great vistas!!!

(photo is of one of my recent sales in Greene County near NGIC Real Estate, call for details)

The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Greene County Virginia is too.

In Greene we have SOLD 164 HOMES.
There are currently 210 HOMES on the market.
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 106 Days.
Our Average selling price is $256,144.

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

A clients place at a home inspection...

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:23:13 -0600

A message for Clients

When we do a home inspection we want you to be a part of it. But the truth is that it could take 2-4 hours for an inspection and it just slows down the inspector if you are looking over his shoulder.

Here is the best way to handle this. Just show up about 1 hour before we anticipate being done and we can review the paper work. Then the inspector will walk you through the home and show you first hand anything he has found.

This is just an efficient use of everyone's time.

Anyone have a better idea?

About The Author

Charles McDonald, Associate Broker at RE/MAX Assured Properties and dedicated Buyers Agent is the author of this blog, and several other sites on the Internet. Charles and his group of experts in the Charlottesville area are always available to help you with your Real Estate needs. Call our group anytime at 434-981-1585 or to search for homes visit: Charlottesville Real Estate

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Louisa Virginia – (YTD Nov 22, 2009)

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:22:20 -0600

Have you been to Louisa County? Located within minutes of Charlottesville Virginia the county of Louisa is known for open spaces and country settings. The old saying is true, “Things are less expensive in the county” There are great deals to be made on property in Louisa.

(Photo taken of a horse farm sale by Charles McDonald)

The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Louisa County Virginia is too. Louisa is just East of Charlottesville with open land and open roads!

You can truly experience country living in Louisa County!

In Louisa we have SOLD 164 HOMES.
There are currently 237 HOMES on the market.
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 129 Days.
Our Average selling price is $229,516.

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Lake Monticello Virginia – (YTD Nov 22, 2009)

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:43:50 -0600

Are you considering Lake Monticello? one of my associates is the expert in the area. He lives there, plays there and works there. Always use an expert when buying (ask me why).

Fluvanna County is located South East of Charlottesville. One of the main draws to Fluvanna is the Lake Monticello Area. Here you can get a home on a lake at a great price and the commute to Charlottesville is about 30 minutes on beautiful county roads!

(photo: One of my sales at Lake Monticello, Virginia)

The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Fluvanna County Virginia is too.

In Fluvanna we have SOLD 236 HOMES.
There are currently 345 HOMES on the market.
Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 120 Days.
Our Average selling price is $238,031.

We have some excellent neighborhoods to see like:

Glenmore Foxchase Old Trail Forest Lakes Dunlora

Click Here for a link to other Great Neighborhoods in our area!

Please visit my website at Charlottesville Real Estate for details about our area and other homes on the market in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the surrounding counties!

Nelson Greene Madison Fluvanna Orange Louisa

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

About The Author

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

15 things to do in Charlottesville Virginia

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:24:42 -0600

#1 4th of July Fireworks in McIntire Park

There are two places in the country that must always celebrate the 4th of July - Philadelphia and Charlottesville. In the shadow of Thomas Jefferson's home, Charlottesville hosts a fantastic 4th of July Festival at McIntire Park. The show is put on by the all-volunteer Save the Fireworks Foundation and up to 25,000 people enjoy the spectacular fireworks display each year.

#2 Albemarle County Fair

Thomas Jefferson was a big fan of agriculture and the Albemarle County Fair is a great celebration of his emphasis on placing your hands in the earth. The Albemarle Fair is similar to other fairs around the country, but Albemarle has a great story to tell. Throw in a funnel cake, some cotton candy, and carnival rides and you have a great time for the entire family.

#3 Bodo's Bagels

The number one thing people miss when they move away from Charlottesville is Bodo's Bagels. Eating at Bodo's is an experience. At peak times, there is always a line that moves amazingly quickly. Breakfast and lunch are both very popular and the price is also a hit with students and townsfolk.

#4 Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad

The Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad (CARS) is an all-volunteer service that serves the City of Charlottesville, half of Albemarle County, and the University of Virginia. With 160 volunteers they run 16,000 calls each year, which earned them the title of the busiest volunteer rescue squad in the country. Funding for CARS comes primarily from donations, making CARS a special community service.

#5 Carter's Mountain

If you want a stunning view of the Charlottesville area, historic Carter's Mountain is the place to go. There are many reasons to visit Carter's Mountain, but the best is the Apple Harvest Festival. Plan a few hours for this trip, because there is only one windy road in and one road out. The cider, fritters, fresh apples, and pumpkins make the trip enjoyable, but the views are worth the trip. At other times of the year you can pick peaches and nectarines.

#6 Charitable Giving

It is no secret that there is a lot of money in Charlottesville, or that locals are very generous in their support of local non-profit programs. There are two special Charlottesville twists to philanthropy that are notable. First, we have the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation (CACF) that serves as a master foundation for many of the local funds. With only a small minimum deposit, anyone can start a charitable giving fund and have the strength of CACF behind it. There are many large and small funds held by CACF, but the most recognized is theBama Works Fund of Dave Matthews Band. Bama Works has given millions of dollars over the years to support local activities that better the community.

#7 Charlottesville Radio Group

Radio is big in Charlottesville. We seem to have a bunch of good radio stations for a small community and most of those stations are part of the Charlottesville Radio Group. The main station in the Group is WINA, which features news and talk and is the flagship station for U.Va. sports. Music, news, talk, and sports are nice, but the real great thing about the Charlottesville Radio Group is that they are very supportive of the community. From Plug Away Monday, where callers are allowed to promote their non-profit organization, to partnerships with many charity events, the Radio Group is a great corporate citizen.

#8 Charlottesville Tomorrow

Civic engagement is a tradition in the Charlottesville area. Public hearings often draw huge crowds. In 2005, a non-partisan organization called Charlottesville Tomorrow was formed to help inform the public of things going on in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Charlottesville Tomorrow uses new media tools to bring a massive amount of information to local residents in a simple and convenient format. You can listen to a podcast of a City Council meeting or read the blog about the latest emotional public hearing.

#9 Christian's Pizza & Crozet Pizza

If you are looking for a unique pizza experience, Charlottesville has two legendary places to take care of you. At Christian's Pizza, you wait in line (often out the front door on a busy night) to select slices of exotic pizzas that are prepped in advance. You order a couple slices with fancy toppings and they cook them for you while you wait in line to pay. That may not sound good to the uninitiated, but once you've tasted the pizza, you're hooked.

The other Charlottesville pizza experience you should try is Crozet Pizza. Since 1977, Crozet Pizza has been hand-making their pizza and people use to call-in days in advance to reserve oven space because demand was so high.

#10 Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport

If you are from the Charlottesville area, you laugh when you read the standard airport warning to get there two hours before your flight. If you did arrive that early at the Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO), you'd have about an hour and 45 minutes to read a book while waiting for your flight. Sure, we have to fly small planes with propellers and there are very few direct flights, but it beats wasting an hour of your life going through check-in and security in a large airport. At least one of John Grisham's books, "The Summons," features CHO and you might just run into the famous author on a flight to Dulles.

#11 Craft Shows

There are several very talented local artisans in and around Charlottesville. We also have several craft shows, with the two best being Martha's Market and Crozet Arts and Craft Festival. Martha's Market, which started in 1994 and is generally held in October, is a fundraiser for the Martha Jefferson Hospital Foundation to support women's health care issues. The 70 vendors at the Market contribute 15% of their proceeds to the charity. The Crozet Festival is held twice a year (May and October) and features 120 exhibits under large tents in Crozet Park.

#12 Dogwood Festival

Originally named the Apple Harvest Festival when it started back in 1950, the event was moved to April and renamed the Dogwood Festival in 1958. This multifaceted event is highlighted by a parade, fair rides, and fireworks. There is a little something for everyone at the Dogwood Festival.

#13 Downtown Mall

The heart of Charlottesville has to be the historic Downtown Mall. It is where people of all ages go, hangout, eat, drink, and be merry. At one end of the Mall is the Ice Park, where you can play hockey or free skate and at the other end is the Pavilion, where many great concerts are held. In the middle is the Paramount Theater and great restaurants, many with outdoor dining. On a Friday night in the summer, you can barely walk down the street because so many people are strolling the Mall. This is a special place in a special city.

#14 First Fridays

On the First Friday of each month, art is front and center on the Charlottesville scene. Several downtown art galleries hold open houses and serve wine, snacks, and fun. You can walk from gallery to gallery and see local and nationally recognized works. To finish off a great evening, stop in for dessert at one of the many local restaurants on the Downtown Mall.

#15 First Night © Virginia

On December 31, Charlottesville celebrates First Night Virginia along with 130 other cities around the world. Our First Night is the second-oldest and features 75 different performances in 24 different venues, all in one night. This great community event is family friendly and a great way to welcome in the New Year.

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

A real 10 in Charlottesville

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:18:32 -0600

What is a 10 out of 10 curb appeal? I will let one of our local papers tell you the story:

Read The Hook

PHOTO BY SARAH JACOBSON

Address: 3675 Brinnington Road

Neighborhood: Meriwether/Ivy in Albemarle

Asking: $1,195,000

Assessment: $1,141,700

Year Built: 1999

Size: 3,756 fin. sq. ft. / 1,336 unfin.

Land: 4.12 acres

Agent: Charles McDonald, Re/Max Assured Properties, 981-1585

Curb Appeal: 10 out of 10

If money cannot buy happiness, it can buy space and light. Frank Lloyd Wright designed houses that would have views without and views within, connecting seemingly expansive interiors with the landscape outside.

This sprawling Wright-inspired property does just that. As it's all on one level, the house's unusual shape allows for windows and doors in corners that open to the outside, offering 180-degree views of the heavily wooded lot. With the crunchy gravel driveway, it almost has the feel of a Zen retreat.

Read the entire ariticle here by Sarah Jacobson

Let me know if you have any question?

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Historic Charlottesville Homes

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:27:29 -0600

All Historic Homes in and around Charlotttesville Virginia

(below are a sample of recent Historic Real Estate listings in the Charlottesville area, as of this post. For a complete list of historic homes, click on the link above)

$10,500,000 200 SEVEN OAKS FARM, GREENWOOD

$7,950,000 7369 DYERS MILL LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$6,160,000 1132 SUNSET AVENUE EXT, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$4,990,000 10 BOAZ RD, COVESVILLE

$4,850,000 22194 MITCHELL FORD RD, LIGNUM

$4,500,000 7281 OAK HALL LN, WARE NECK

Disclaimer: Copyright ©2004-2009 Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors®. All rights reserved. Information deemed to be reliable but not guaranteed. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the IDX Program of Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors®. Listing broker has attempted to offer accurate data, but buyers are advised to confirm all items. Any use of search facilities of data on this site other than by a consumer interested in the purchase of real estate, is prohibited. Information last updated today. All rights reserved. Created by Charlottesville Virginia Real Estate for clients use only.

Charles McDonald, REALTOR® / Associate Broker with RE/MAX Assured Properties, and is "Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia”

Website Designed and created by Charles McDonald

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville VA Real Estate presents homes in Murray School District

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:58:57 -0600

All Homes in Murray School District

(below are recent listings in the Murray School District, as of this post. For a complete list of homes, click on the link above)

$4,250,000 1200 ZACK LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$3,695,000 1410 BROOK RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$2,995,000 949 FIELDS OF BOAZ DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$2,295,000 10 OLD FARM RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,995,000 690 IVY LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

Charles McDonald, REALTOR® / Associate Broker with RE/MAX Assured Properties, and is "Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia”

Website Designed and created by Charles McDonald

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville VA Real Estate presents homes in Meriwether Lewis School District

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:09:33 -0600

All Homes in Meriwether Lewis School

$13,500,000 2789 CHAPEL SPRING LN, FREE UNION

$10,825,000 1000 IVY CREEK DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,695,000 2430 RIVER RIDGE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,495,000 952 OWENSVILLE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,195,000 3675 BRINNINGTON RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,150,000 1675 OWENSFIELD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

Charles McDonald, REALTOR® / Associate Broker with RE/MAX Assured Properties, and is "Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia”

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

So you want to know more about the schools in the Charlottesville area?

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:27:47 -0600

First of all let me say that you are on the right track. When you are looking to relocate to any area, schools should be a major part of the decision.

Some clients will say to me that schools do not matter because they either have no kids or their kids are grown.

My response is the same. Schools matter because they drive property values. As long as you are aware of this fact and then you decide that schools are not as important then that is fine.

Another important fact is that agents can not tell you the “best” schools or that one is better than another. This might be considered ”steering” which is an ethical violation.

So here is what I tell people.

Take a look at my website under schools: Charlottesville Real Estate and Schools

and notice that I have located all the schools in the Charlottesville Area and added links to an outside site that rates schools and gets information from parents and other sources. This outside site is not created by me or any agent.

Next when you have selected a school,

just click on the link Find a Home

under the school name and you will be directed to homes for that area!

Simple enough?

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Living in Historic Charlottesville

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:00:14 -0600

Charlottesville Downtown area is worth a look!

Rarely do the Historic homes of Charlottesville come on the market. But when they do there is always a lot of activity around them. Last year when I listed a circa 1920 Home walking distance to the Downtown Mall and to city parks and the Historic Charlottesville we got several offers the first week.

This Church is seen from the front of that grand home. Walking to the library and Art Center.

Stay tuned as we may be bringing on another gem worth a look!

Your Agent for Charlottesville Real Estate

Living in Historic Charlottesville

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Virginia presents Real Estate in Dunlora

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:57:53 -0600

Located mins to downtown Charlottesville just South of NGIC and DIA facilities is the fantastic neighborhood of Dunlora!

Below are currently homes and there are certainly some deals to be made.

$525,000 1326 PENDLETON CT, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$499,758 823 KING WILLIAM DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$499,000 2038 SHEPHERDS RIDGE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$495,000 350 SHEPHERDS RIDGE CIR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$485,000 1265 RIVER CHASE LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$475,000 998 DUNLORA DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$439,000 1321 MOSBY REACH, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$419,900 329 SHEPHERDS RIDGE CIR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$385,000 2211 AMBROSE WAY, CHARLOTTESVILLE

Charles McDonald, REALTOR® / Associate Broker with RE/MAX Assured Properties, and is "Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia”

Charles McDonald

Associate BROKER at RE/MAX Assured Properties, Licensed to sell Real Estate in Virginia

(main) 434-515-1585 (cell) 434-981-1585 (fax) 866-527-9526

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville VA Real Estate

Search for Charlottesville Real Estate 22901 or Search for Crozet Real Estate 22932 in one great place!

Charlottesville Real Estate Blog - Charles McDonald

Charlottesville Downtown Mall (The RAP version)

I have a home listed that will not sell in Charlottesville, can you help?

I have a home listed that will not sell in Charlottesville, can you help?

CHRISTMAS are you with me? (Santa is Back)

Some of you have noticed last year that I slowly changed in appearance. Some say I look better, some say I need to smile, some say I need to shave and some do not like my hat!

Some say I have lost my mind! LOL

This year I again will challenge you to:

Have the “Christmas Spirit” in your heart.

Post about your Christmas season!

Add a “Merry Christmas” to your posts!

Enjoy the holidays and spread cheer!

ARE YOU WITH ME????

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My Blog Buddy (exposed)

I think simple is best when it comes to Christmas Lights...

When it comes to decorating outside for Christmas, my wife and I have come to the conclusion that “Simple is Best”.

Yes, even Charles was young once! (Merry Christmas)

I am the one of the Left, Not the Right :)

Wordless Wednesday - I just woke up

Albemarle Home Sales vs DOM (Days on Market)

Homes in surrounding Counties of Charlottesville

Albemarle sales vs last year

Albemarle Virginia Real Estate Information – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

I like to wait a few days after the end of the month to look at market data. Seems we have some agents that are a little slow at adding closing to our MLS.

Charlottesville Virginia Real Estate Information – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

We talk a lot about Statistics when it comes to real estate. Let’s look a little closer at Charlottesville Real Virginia Estate.

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Nelson Virginia – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Greene Virginia – (YTD Nov 28, 2009)

A clients place at a home inspection...

A message for Clients

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Louisa Virginia – (YTD Nov 22, 2009)

Have you been to Louisa County? Located within minutes of Charlottesville Virginia the county of Louisa is known for open spaces and country settings. The old saying is true, “Things are less expensive in the county” There are great deals to be made on property in Louisa.

Charlottesville Real Estate presents Lake Monticello Virginia – (YTD Nov 22, 2009)

Are you considering Lake Monticello? one of my associates is the expert in the area. He lives there, plays there and works there. Always use an expert when buying (ask me why).

15 things to do in Charlottesville Virginia

A real 10 in Charlottesville

What is a 10 out of 10 curb appeal? I will let one of our local papers tell you the story:

Read The Hook

Historic Charlottesville Homes

All Historic Homes in and around Charlotttesville Virginia

(below are a sample of recent Historic Real Estate listings in the Charlottesville area, as of this post. For a complete list of historic homes, click on the link above)

Charlottesville VA Real Estate presents homes in Murray School District

All Homes in Murray School District

(below are recent listings in the Murray School District, as of this post. For a complete list of homes, click on the link above)

$4,250,000 1200 ZACK LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$3,695,000 1410 BROOK RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$2,995,000 949 FIELDS OF BOAZ DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$2,295,000 10 OLD FARM RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,995,000 690 IVY LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

Charlottesville VA Real Estate presents homes in Meriwether Lewis School District

All Homes in Meriwether Lewis School

$13,500,000 2789 CHAPEL SPRING LN, FREE UNION

$10,825,000 1000 IVY CREEK DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,695,000 2430 RIVER RIDGE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,495,000 952 OWENSVILLE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,195,000 3675 BRINNINGTON RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$1,150,000 1675 OWENSFIELD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

So you want to know more about the schools in the Charlottesville area?

Living in Historic Charlottesville

Living in Historic Charlottesville

Charlottesville Virginia presents Real Estate in Dunlora

$525,000 1326 PENDLETON CT, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$499,758 823 KING WILLIAM DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$499,000 2038 SHEPHERDS RIDGE RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$495,000 350 SHEPHERDS RIDGE CIR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$485,000 1265 RIVER CHASE LN, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$475,000 998 DUNLORA DR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$439,000 1321 MOSBY REACH, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$419,900 329 SHEPHERDS RIDGE CIR, CHARLOTTESVILLE

$385,000 2211 AMBROSE WAY, CHARLOTTESVILLE