Real Estate and Staging in NOVA

Are you at least 55 Years Young or Better?

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 17:07:56 -0500

If you are at least 55 years young, then I have the home for you!

55 YEARS YOUNG? What if I am 54? Sorry, unless you or your spouse is at least 55, then you may not buy this fabulous home.

Why is that? Well, this elegant colonial is located in one of Northern Virginia’s finest Active Adult Communities, Regency at Dominion Valley.

What is an Active Adult Community? In Virginia, “Active Adult Communities” must meet age qualifications. This means that at least 80% of the units within the community have one resident that is at least 55 or better. No permanent residents are allowed under the age of 18.

So are you or your spouse at least 55 Years or Better? Then read on, because you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to own this exceptional single family home. By far one of the lowest priced homes in the neighborhood ($475K) and definitely on one of the best lots, this brick colonial is the next place to call home. With a spacious open floor plan and main level living, what more could you ask for? This home features 2 bedrooms on the main level, including the luxurious master suite, and one bedroom in the loft area. (Perfect for having family in for the weekend.)

Located at the end of a quiet Cul de sac and backing to a wooded area, this home offers peace and tranquility whether relaxing in the warm sunroom or catching a cool breeze in the glorious screened in porch. Have the neighbors over for a BBQ on the patio, or set up a game of horseshoes in the private backyard.

If you want to get out of the house, then head over to the Regency Clubhouse. Conveniently located across from Whitworth Court, you can walk, run or drive there in a few minutes. The elegant clubhouse features an indoor/outdoor pool, tennis courts, magnificent library, fabulous restaurant, and various other activities and rooms. There is also a beautiful 18 hole golf course that meanders throughout the community, including a putting green to practice your game.

The Regency at Dominion Valley is a private, gated community that is also a part of the Dominion Valley Country Club, open to people of all ages. Dominion Valley boasts a new shopping center at the entrance to the community. Offering an impressive grocery store, coffee shop, dry cleaners and various restaurants, you don’t have to go far to get the things you need.

So if you are ready for the next step into a fabulous relaxing lifestyle, then this may be the perfect home for you. Call for information or to make an appointment for a private showing.
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Candace Moe and Chelle Gassan

Senior Real Estate Specialist, Realtors, Staging Professionals

Weichert, Realtors

540-270-0274 / 571-330-6164

www.stagedhomesva.com

Transferring to Coast Guard Headquarters, What about the Kids?

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 20:30:49 -0500

I work with a lot of Coast Guard personnell who usually end up at one point in their career at Coast Guard Headquarters. Many of them are moving with families and school age children, so I am often asked the following question:

“Where are the good schools?”

My answer to that question is: “all over Northern Virginia”.

But don’t take my word for it. Newsweek magazine ranks high schools throughout the country on an annual basis. Time after time, a large majority of this area’s schools rank in the top 5% of high schools in the country. According to Newsweek Magazine, in 2007, 60 of this area’s Virginia schools made the top 1300 high schools in the USA.

All of the Northern Virginia Counties/Cities that make up the DC area were represented in this list. They include:

So if your new duty station brings you to Northern Virginia and the DC Area, not to worry, our area has some of the finest schools available.

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Moving to the DC Area and in need of housing assistance? Please don’t hesitate to contact me for more information:

Chelle Gassan

Weichert, Realtors

Servicing All of Northern Virginia, including Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William and Stafford Counties

571-330-6164

www.chellegassan.com

And I thought being a Realtor was Tough....

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:24:42 -0500

I just have to give a hand to those awesome Loan Officers out there!

With today’s ever changing lending situation, the hurdles and jumps you have to go through to get a client qualified is amazing.

I had a tough situation with a client this week. They do not have stellar credit (no thanks to a past identity theft), but really want and need to buy a home. I was almost certain that there would be a big “NO” over there head in qualifying for a loan. But my friend and loan officer who I work with on a regular basis, spent hours this morning working through some of their credit issues and making it actually possible for them to purchase a home. I know this situation is not going to be easy and will require a lot of work before everything finally comes together. But I appreciate the fact that this loan officer had the patience and compassion for helping my clients realize their dream of home ownership.

So hats off to my friend and all his wisdom, not to mention all the other loan officers out there who go above and beyond the call of duty. Without you, we Realtors wouldn’t be able to help our clients become Homeowners.

It must be Spring Break, the Buyers are in Here!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:01:20 -0500

All across the country, millions of school children are preparing for their annual spring break over the next few weeks. Unfortunately many of them are not enjoying their much needed vacation at the beach. Instead they are sitting in my car driving around Northern Virginia while I help their parents find a home...poor kids.

But that is what this time of year brings to the DC area, lots of out of town buyers who need to find a place to call home, and they are using their week of Spring Break to do it.

So Sellers, now is the time to re-evaluate your listing:

Does your home show really, really well (inside and out)?
Do you have good internet presence with nice and enticing photos of your property?
Are you being flexible with showings?
Most importantly, are you priced AT or BELOW comps for your neighborhood and the surrounding neighborhoods?

If you answered “NO” to any of these questions then you may be missing out on a lot of potential purchasers for your home. The spring market is officially in season, so don’t miss this opportunity to catch the Spring Break Buyers.

They are here, they are serious and they will buy a home. Will it be yours?

Bank takes too long to Sign, Purchaser finds another House

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 09:53:50 -0500

I haven’t quite figured this one out, but, so far my dealings with bank-owned properties have gone like this:

1. We (the Bank) verbally accept your offer.

2. Purchaser ,please HURRY UP and sign all the bank addendum or we will move onto the next offer.

3. We (the Bank) will sign off on everything and fully ratify the contract WHEN WE FEEL LIKE IT or when the documentation finally makes it to the right person.

My clients have been in a verbal contract with a Bank for over 4 weeks with nothing signed by the Bank, so technically speaking there is no contract. Needless to say, my clients are having second thoughts about purchasing this property and think they need to look elsewhere. They are pulling their offer and I am showing them properties once again.

If the Bank had just signed all the documents, my clients would be in a legally binding contract and would be going to settlement in two weeks. But now the bank has to find another Purchaser while I find them another house to buy, all because of a few signatures.

Side note: I spoke with the listing agent this morning and she is frustrated at how many deals that have been lost because the bank she is working with takes too much time to get everything signed off....hmmm, I wonder when the banks will catch a clue?

Listed, Staged and SOLD in ONE DAY!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 17:22:53 -0500

ATTENTION SELLERS!

If you are not pricing your house correctly and making sure that your home shows like a model, then don’t expect to see the results we just had with our most recent listing in Gainesville, Virginia. Here is the anatomy of a great sale:

Monday: Signed the listing agreement for $300,000. After showing the Seller comparable properties for her neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods, she agreed that this was the right price for her home to get it sold quickly.

Wednesday: We staged this adorable 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath. This house already had great promise with hardwood floors on the entire first floor, not to mention a very realistic seller. We just moved a few pieces of furniture around and added some finishing touches to give it that great first impression.

Thursday: The photos were taken, and brochures ordered. That night the listing and photos were uploaded to the MLS.

Friday: First showing at noon. Phone call soon thereafter asking if we had any offers. Later that night, offer is sent over.

Saturday morning: Speak with Seller about offer in hand, we counter-offer, Purchasers agree, Seller and Purchaser initial everything...contract is ratified. (I need to mention, too, that while the Seller was signing the changes to the contract, there was another agent wanting to write an offer for her clients. Potentially a multiple offer situation, but the Seller is happy.)

Sellers, the market has changed, but that doesn’t mean your house won’t sell. It may mean that you need to change your approach to selling your home. If you are waiting for that one in a million buyer who is going to see past all your clutter and want to pay you $20,000 more than the last house that sold, don’t hold your breath...it’s not going to happen.

There were 395 homes for sale in Gainesville, Virginia last month and only 21 of them sold. You have an approximately 1 in 19 chance of selling your house, and that is just in Gainesville, there are so many other neighborhoods where Buyers are searching:

So, now that you see how it can work, what are you going to do to make sure your home stands out and gets the offer?

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If you would like more information about buying or selling in the Gainesville Area, please contact:

CHELLE GASSAN

571-330-6164

chelle@chellegassan.com

Bristow, Virginia-This is the home for you!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 17:55:00 -0600

If you are looking for that perfect home, then you have found it in this one located in Bristow, Virginia.

Perfectly located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a 1/3 acre lot, this beautiful, brick Colonial home is worth the $410,000 price tag and so much more!

One of the largest lots on the street, not to mention a rear yard with 6 ft. privacy fence, very large Trex deck, a Hot Tub that seats 6, and backing to a large common area and trees...and this is just the outside!

Once inside, you will notice how well this family lovingly maintained their home. From the fine detailed crown molding to the warm hard wood floors, you will want to call this house your HOME!

Featuring:

2 Story Foyer
Living Room
Dining Room
Study
Family Room
Gourmet Kitchen with breakfast area
Master Suite
3 addtional bedrooms
Walk-out Basement

I know you are saying it..."Honey, this is the one!" So don't delay!

Contact me for more information, or even better stop by this Sunday, March 2nd, for this great home's first Open House from 12-4PM. You won't be dissappointed!

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For more information about this fabulous Bristow home, contact:

Chelle Gassan

Weichert, Realtors

(C) 571-330-6164

(O) 703-753-3828

I would love to make my clients happy and sell this home to YOU!

I've seen a change, but it's costing me time on ActiveRain

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:13:42 -0600

I've been so unbelievably busy lately, that my time on ActiveRain has been much less. I usually visit AR everyday, in the morning with my coffee, and in the evening with my glass of wine. But the past few weeks, I'm lucky if I get on here at all.

I really had great intentions of writing all these fabulous Localism posts so that I can increase my presence on the internet. But that too is not happening.

What I have been doing instead is going crazy and working very long days. It seems that people finally realized that it is a great time to buy. And thankfully, the listings we've been taking are with REALISTIC sellers who are getting the message about what they need to do to sell.

So between showing homes, staging listings, working the contracts, writing offers, arranging settlements, and all the other details that go into being a Realtor, I just haven't been able to spend my precious time here on AR, like I would like to.

In addition, I have also noticed that in one of my favorite AR groups, Virginia, the regular contributors are not contributing as much...they must be feeling the change too.

I'm exhausted and a little stressed, but I've seen a change in the market, and things look good.

Make Mine Prince William Wine

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 19:28:34 -0600

Virginia is full of rich history. It is famous for presidential mansions and battlefields, but not many people are aware of it’s vibrant Wine Country. California, Washington, and Oregon are the states that come to mind when people think of US wines. While not at the top of the list, Virginia is making it’s way into the wine industry and actually getting some recognition.

One of my favorite places to go wine tasting and to enjoy a relaxing afternoon is the Winery at La Grange, located in Haymarket, VA. Currently the one and only operating winery in Prince William County, this beautiful and historical place should be on your list of things to do.

Approximately 40 miles outside of Washington DC, this Northern Virginia winery offers one of the most picturesque settings. Driving down Antioch Road, you happen upon this beautiful 1790’s colonial, that was once a farmhouse. Lovingly restored, the Manor house hosts the wine tasting room. In addition, there are several intimate rooms for enjoying a bottle of wine and snacks (bring your own or purchase some there).

Some of the rooms have fireplaces, while the cozy, stone basement is a treat of it’s own. You can also enjoy your wine on the sun porch with views of the 100 year old boxwoods that create a path to the Barrel Room.

When the weather is nice, there are many private spots to enjoy a beautiful day and tasty glass of wine. For those slightly cooler days, La Grange has patio heaters to take off the chill.

I sound like an advertisement, but I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoy the Winery at La Grange. They offer such a beautiful place to relax and their wine is fabulous, too. If you live in Western Prince William County, this is a treasure in your own backyard to enjoy. And if you live in Northern Virginia, hop on I-66 to Haymarket and you too can experience a great part of the Virginia Wine Country.

I say, “make mine Virginia wine”!

The Buyers are coming, The Buyers are coming!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 09:30:59 -0600

Just like Paul Revere shouted “the British are coming”, so are the Buyers in full force.

I don’t think it is just me, but I have had so many buyers lately that I am having a tough time keeping up with them, let alone keeping them straight. This weekend alone, I took out three buyers, didn’t write any offers, but that is our next step.

I know it’s not just my partner and I, because on Sunday evening our office was a buzz with agents and their clients reviewing listings, writing offers, getting loan approvals in place, etc. It feels great to see so much excitement in the air with real estate. We’ve been on such a negative path for a while, it’s awesome to see movement, and lots of it!

This is good news for everyone, especially the sellers out there who are waiting for their homes to sell. Keep in mind, all of these buyers are looking for a good deal, not unrealistic, but fair. Overpriced listings are not on our shopping list, so Sellers price your home to sell because:

THE BUYERS ARE COMING!

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Chelle Gassan

Weichert, Realtors-Virginia

571-330-6164 cell

703-753-3828 office

www.chellegassan.com

Commuting to Coast Guard Headquarters in DC

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:56:08 -0600

The Washington, DC Area ranks in the top 10 worst commute times in the country. Depending on what publication you read, our area normally ranks as #2 or #3 on that list. (New York is usually #1). Scary! And now you just found out that your next duty station will be at Coast Guard Headquarters in South West DC. But what else can you expect of an area that has continual job growth every single year.

I have many Coast Guard clients who do relocate to this area. (Everybody has to take their turn at the dreaded Headquarters tour.) I always ask their criteria, needs, wants, etc. for their next home. One major criteria is commute times. Most people come here with the idea that they want a ‘reasonable’ commute time. And then I have to ask “what is reasonable to you?” Nine times out of ten, the answer is 20 minutes or less. (Hah...I try not to laugh). Very few commuters in this area are lucky enough to have that short of a commute time (me being one of them). But pretty much anyone working in Washington DC will have a decent commute time, unless they actually live in DC. Some Coasties do choose to live there, but most of my clients have opted for the suburbs of Virginia and Maryland as many of them have families and would prefer not to live in the city.

So what can you expect for commute times? From the information I gather from my clients, neighbors, friends, other Realtors, the average commute time is about 40 minutes to 1.5 hours. What? Yes, this is the reality we call living in the Metro Area. But don’t fret. There are plenty of commuting options and alternatives that can save you time and possibly money, no matter where you choose to live.

The Washington DC area has a great Metro Rail and Bus System. If you live in Fairfax County, Arlington County, Falls Church, and Alexandria on the Virginia side of DC there are many routes available throughout. In Maryland, Montgomery County and Prince Georges County have Metro stops, as well. Many of the outer counties also offer direct bus service to Metro Rail stops from local commuter lots, such as Omni Ride in Prince William County, VA.

Another option for the Outer burbs is the local railway services. Virginia offers the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), with lines that travel from Fredericksburg and the I-95 corridor. And also west of DC, starting in Manassas. In Maryland, you can utilize the MARC train service.

If you choose to live in Virginia, south of the city, there is a commuting phenomenon called “SLUGGING”. It is basically organized hitch-hiking where drivers pick up commuters heading for the same DC locations. Since I-95 requires 3 people in the car to be in the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, this helps the driver meet this requirement thereby getting to work faster, and the “slugs” benefit the same and don’t have to pay for gas. Check out this website for more slugging information or just for fun...there is “slugging etiquette”.

Private van pools are another option. Several companies will set these up for you by matching you with other commuters going in your general direction. I’m aware of at least one Coast Guard van pool in Stafford that takes a group to Headquarters. Check out Commuter Connections for more information, or Silver Service Transportation.

One other source of general commuting information is the Commuter Pages. This website offers a good overview of many of the commuting options I listed above, if not more.

Keep in mind that as long as you get yourself to L’Enfant Plaza in DC, you will find a Coast Guard van to pick you up and take you to and from Headquarters. I understand they do have regular operating hours, but something to ask about when you check in with your new duty station.

What your commute ends up being and how you get there will all depend on where you live. So if you would like more housing information, please don't hesitate to contact me by phone or email. I’m always happy to help my fellow Coast Guard families.

Realtor and Accredited Staging Professional (and Spouse of Former Coastie)

Weichert, Realtors

571.330.6164

chelle@chellegassan.com

www.chellegassan.com

Coast Guard Housing in the DC Area

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 18:21:57 -0600

If you are in the Coast Guard and moving to the DC Area, I am sure you have discovered that there isn’t really any “housing” per se. The majority of military personnel live on the economy in this area. Of course, being in the Coast Guard, you know this is pretty normal. There are not many duty stations throughout the country that provide base housing.

So you have your orders in hand, or at least are pretty certain that Washington, DC is your next duty station. Where do you begin in such a large area, and what can you afford? (You can check this website for current BAH rates)

Where you want to live and what you can afford depends on a lot of factors:

Commute time vs. distance to CG Headquarters (or other duty stations)
Type of housing desired
Working spouse’s job location
Schools
Public transportation

There seems to be no one size fits all scenario for Coasties moving to DC. I have helped many over the last few years and they are spread all over the Metro area. Some live right in Washington, DC, many in the Virginia suburbs, and some in Maryland. With the housing boom back in 2004 and 2005, many Coasties moved to the outer suburbs to find affordable housing. Now that housing prices have come down, I have noticed more opting for the counties closer to Washington.

It’s a good idea to do some research before making your first house hunting trip. The following websites will provide you with local information about the different Counties and Cities that make up the DC Metro Area:

VIRGINIA

Prince William County

Spotyslvania County

Stafford County

MARYLAND AND DC

Montgomery County

Prince Georges County

Washington DC

Plus, you can always contact me for more specific information about housing options whether you are planning to buy or rent while stationed in the DC Area. I have the most up to date listings right at my fingertips and I am always happy to help out fellow Coast Guard families.

Moving to the DC Area? Let me help you!

Realtor and Accredited Staging Professional (and spouse of former Coastie)

Weichert, Realtors

cell: 571.330.6164

chelle@chellegassan.com

www.chellegassan.com

UPDATE**Great Deal on a Manassas Park Single Family Home-NOT BANK OWNED!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:53:50 -0600

UPDATE**This home was listed last Thursday, and as of yesterday it is UNDER CONTRACT! That is 6 days on the market, and we had TWO offers. It just goes to show that if you price things well and they look better than the competition, they will SELL. Now, we just have to get to the settlement table.

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Take a look at this adorable Cape Cod Style Bungalow built in the 1960's.

The current owner has been there for over 20 years and the pride of ownership shows throughout.

Situated on a large corner lot, this two level home has a fenced yard, large carport and driveway. The main level offers a living room, dining room, kitchen and laundry/mud room. In addition, there is a nice sized main level bedroom and full bath.

The upper level consists of two large bedrooms and a half bath.

The owner just had the entire home updated with brand new carpeting and is in the process of replacing the front window a/c unit with a glass window since this home currently has central air conditioning.

I have seen the competition, and I have to say that there is just no other home like this one on the market in Manassas Park. This one is priced like a bank-owned property, but is not being sold as-is. It is ready to move into, does not need any work done and is truly the best value of any single family home available in Manassas Park.

Priced unbelievably well at $179,900...

Where else in Northern Virginia can you get a "move in ready" single family home for under $200,000?

For more information on this great property, please contact:

Chelle Gassan

cell: 571-330-6164 or by email: chelle@chellegassan.com

Mr. and Mrs. Seller, “You need to paint your House”

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:34:47 -0600

As a Realtor (who is also a Stager), I have had the honor of listing and staging many homes. In addition, because I am also a Buyer’s Agent, I have been exposed to many, many other properties, as well. I probably see well over a hundred properties a month and I feel confident that I know what buyers find attractive in homes and what they say about the ones they don’t like.

Why am I telling you this?

Because, I want you to trust me when I say, “You need to paint your house to sell it”. Trust that I have been in a bazillion different properties, and I have some idea that your sponge painted rooms with wallpaper border are not the latest trend. Granted this is no reflection of your personal style in decor, I am not here to judge. But you, Mr. and Mrs. Seller need to know that neutral is much better than green sponge paint.

It is far easier to find a buyer who is comfortable with “real estate beige” than finding the buyer who has the exact same taste in Thomas Kincaid wall paper borders as you. I know you painstakingly took the time to hand sponge all four walls and it took you hours to get the border hung just right, but my buyer doesn’t care. They can’t wait to rip it apart and paint it with red stripes.

My point being, we all have our own personal style of decorating our homes, but when you sell it, it no longer will be yours. You will not come back in two years to see if your great sponge painting job is still there. When you put your home on the market, it becomes a product and you have to cater to the masses. Finding a buyer with similar decorating styles is like finding a needle in a haystack.

So, let’s agree that if you want to get your home sold, then you have to appeal to the most buyers possible...real estate beige will accomplish this for you.

Mr. and Mrs. Seller, don’t fight me on this. I want to sell your home and I want it to appeal to a lot of buyers. I want you to be the best priced, best looking house out there...

So please, I beg you, let the sponge painting go...it is in fact no longer your home, but soon to be someone else’s.

Victory Lakes Residents-It's all about the Pricing-TIME TO GET REAL!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:29:36 -0600

I did some research today on Victory Lakes, a neighborhood I am very familiar with (I happen to live there), to get an idea of what is going on with my neighborhood market. I was not surprised by the results. The pricing is all over the map, which seems to be the norm these days.

People can we please get real here?!!!! This is not 2005 and you can not expect 2005 prices. The market has changed and if you are going to sell your home in 2007 (soon to be 2008) then you need to price your home for THIS market, not the market from 2 years ago. I know as Sellers, we would all like our homes to sell for 2005 prices, but the reality is they won’t. There is absolutely no way around this fact.

Let’s put yourself in the Buyer’s Shoes. If you were on the buying side in today’s market, what would you pay for a home today? The inflated prices of 2005 or the more realistic prices of 2007...think about it...the Informed Buyers* are.

Let me give you an example of how this plays out for the average Informed Buyer out there looking for a place to call home in Bristow, VA. They want at least 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. They are qualified for about $475,000 and hope this will get them a nice single family home in a great community.

Victory Lakes sounds interesting to them. They have read up on the community and found out that it has a great pool area with 6 swim lanes, a separate play pool including water features, and a gated kiddie pool for the younger residents. These educated Buyers have heard about the Victory Lakes Piranha Swim Team that won it’s division this last summer and all the resident volunteers and swimmers that made it possible. They desire to be a part of a community that offers an On-Site Activities Director who coordinates and plans various activities for the Residents to partake. From Yoga to Basketball Camp, there is something for everyone who calls Victory Lakes home. The Informed Buyers look forward to taking their dogs to the enclosed Dog Park beautifully situated along one of the “lakes”, near the tennis courts, tot lot, and the fabulous Clubhouse...

So this is the community they have been looking for, but what will $475,000 get them in Victory Lakes? Well, actually several very nice possibilities. But here in lies the “get real” pricing of 2007. (Sellers of Victory Lakes- PLEASE PAY ATTENTION!) I want to show you what these informed buyers would have found:

Choice A- 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome that “Must Sell Quickly” with 2160 finished sq. feet on three levels, no additional pictures, but they do have hardwood floors and a one car garage.

(Selling Quickly usually means priced to sell?)

Choice B- 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath Single Family Home on about 1/4 Acre with three levels of 3397 finished square feet, granite counters, cherry cabinets..oh and they have hardwood floors and a TWO car garage.

Call me Crazy, but if I was the Informed Buyer and I had decided that the Victory Lakes Community in Bristow was going to be my next place of residence and I had these choices at hand that meet my general criteria, I’m pretty sure I would pick Choice B...it just makes sense.

And when the Informed Buyer’s Agent researches this neighborhood, they will discover that the majority of single family homes are listed for over $500,000, therefore making Choice B even more attractive. It’s no wonder that currently Choice B is under contract and Choice A has been taken off the market (no sale).

So my fellow Residents of Victory Lakes, let’s Get Real. What you would like your property to sell for, may not be what the Informed Buyers will realistically pay. If you don’t have to sell right now, then it may be wise to wait. But if you do need to sell then please choose an agent carefully who will be truthful with you about the market and price your home accordingly.

Do you want to sell your house or just list it?

If you are ready to sell, please give me a call. If you are just looking to list and see what happens, then call me when you are ready to get real. If you need an Informed Buyer's Agent, I am happy to help.

Chelle Gassan, Weichert, Realtors- 571-330-6164

(*Informed Buyer- is an active Buyer currently looking for properties with a Buyer’s Agent (Realtor) who knows and has access to all the very latest information and data for that Buyer’s home search. )

Please don't call me about this Listing, unless you are SERIOUS.

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 18:11:58 -0600

Stop, don’t look, and please don’t call me about this property anymore.

I know it is a great price and a beautiful lot, but I have had enough calls on this one and I really don’t want anymore. Yes, it is my job as the listing agent to sell and market this property to prospective buyers, but I am beginning to think that no Serious Buyers exist. If you’re not going to be serious about my listing, then please don’t call me.

Serious Buyers should not be afraid of steep inclines, trees and hard work. (We are talking about the top of a mountain here). The Serious Buyer who calls me should be ready for a tedious and long process. This Buyer should know what it takes or be willing to learn about developing raw land in Prince William County. If you are going to call me, please know that what ever home you have dreamed of building is possible on this land. But you have to be ready to put some sweat equity into the process. You have to do the leg work and you have to make it happen.

So are you serious, yet?

I have often thought about what the Serious Buyer can do with this property. To take advantage of the views that extend all the way to Tyson’s Corner and the Arlington Skyline, I imagine the Serious Buyer would want picture windows like one of these:

I imagine a big deck for enjoying the views on a crisp fall day with a book and a cup of hot chocolate with friends and family:

I imagine the Serious Buyer would stop at the Giant Shopping center in Dominion Valley to pick up groceries and maybe grab a cup of coffee from the Daily Grind for the 15 minute drive home.

At the base of Bull Run Mountain, the Serious Buyer would take in the rolling hills of the local farms, and catch a glimpse of the glorious new Estate homes that have begun to dot this area outside of Haymarket.

On the weekend, I imagine, the Serious Buyer would make the 45 minute drive to Washington, DC and take in the sights, monuments and museums with family and friends. They might stop in Gainesville on the way home to grab a bite to eat at the new Virginia Gateway Center.

When the Serious Buyer returned home to his private drive at the top of the mountain he might find a welcoming entrance like this:

Oh, I wish I had a Serious Buyer.

I’ve had a lot of calls, but none of them are serious about taking advantage of this great opportunity. They all run away scared of the work involved in building their dream home on this beautiful property. So many people want something for nothing. And even though these 2.5 Acres of wooded, mountain property, located in Western Prince William County, are listed at the exceptional price of $90,000, nobody is serious. They want this to be an easy deal, but this is raw land. Your hard work and ingenuity will pay off someday in the form of views like this: (actual view below!)

Ahhh, I have the land for the Serious Buyers to build the home of their dreams, now if they would just call me!

If you are SERIOUS, please call Chelle Gassan at 571-330-6164.

(Side note: This property is actually 4 separate lots that total 2.5 Acres. They are currently listed individually, but the owner would prefer to sell them as one for this great price.) Please see listing at: http://homes.realtor.com/realestate/haymarket-va-20169-1089041846/

Private Cabin on Bull Run Mountain-only 35 miles from DC!

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:41:50 -0600

Chelle Gassan | Weichert, Realtors | 571-330-6164

2610 Kilgore Street, Haymarket, VA

Privacy and Location in this quaint Cabin on Bull Run Mountain, only 35 miles from Washington, DC.

3 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $385,000

Year Built	1987
Sq Footage	1,808
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.60 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Loaded with personality, this cozy cabin on Bull Run Mountain has the privacy you're looking for, but still convenient to all the DC Metro Area has to offer. Situated on over half an acre of mature hardwoods with three finished levels, three bedrooms and two full baths. The front deck offers a place to relax at the end of the day. Or better yet, unwind in the privacy of your own jacuzzi hot tub on the back deck.

If you are looking for a quiet, private retreat to call home...this is the place.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Basement
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Clubhouse

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Private Wooded Lot

Front and back decks

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Chelle Gassan

Weichert, Realtors

571-330-6164

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 20, 2007, 5:53am PST

When selling your Home, The Little Things Make a Difference

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 19:48:40 -0600

I go into so many homes these days that are nice, but they could be so much nicer if they just changed a few things.

As a Realtor and a professional Stager, I know that it takes more than just nice to catch a buyer's attention. You have to convey a feeling of warmth and beauty throughout your entire home.

For example: The bedroom below already had nice bedding, but lacked any warmth.

Nice Master Bedroom-BEFORE

Nicer Master Bedroom-AFTER.

Notice by adding a warm lamp, artwork, a mirror, and of course the tray of morning coffee, we have created a warm, inviting place to relax.

Which Bedroom would you rather spend time in? I'll take Bedroom #2 and so will today's choosy buyers.

Just something to keep in mind...it is the little things that make a difference!

Beautiful Colonial on over One Acre of Woods in Prince William County

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 19:02:18 -0600

Chelle Gassan | Weichert, Realtors | chelle@chellegassan.com | 571-330-6164

12605 Purcell Road, Manassas, VA

Privacy and Location in this fabulous Colonial with wrap around porch on over one acre of mature hardwoods. Conveniently located near I-95 and I-

5 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $540,000

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	3,842
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 2 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	1.12 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful colonial in a gorgeous, park like setting. Circular drive leading to an inviting wrap-around porch. Three finished levels with all hardwood floors and stairs. Beautifully updated kitchen has granite counters, ceramic tile backsplash, new lighting, stainless steel appliances, and walk-in pantry. Wood burning fireplace makes for a cozy family room. The Rec room features a wood burning stove and large custom bar with seating for eight. Possibility of a sixth bedroom, central vacuum, fenced back yard, no HOA...you have to see this one to believe it!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances
Basement	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Sauna

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

8-person Bar in Basement

Hardwood floors on all three levels

Central Vacuum

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Chelle Gassan

Weichert, Realtors

chelle@chellegassan.com

571-330-6164

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 14, 2007, 5:29am PST

I'm new to AR...loving it, but feeling Stupid

Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (RE/MAX Regency and Staged Homes VA) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:06:16 -0500

I am so excited to have found such a great resource for real estate professionals. I am almost in disbelief at how much info is shared across the country. So there are people just like me...with the same questions...problems...issues, etc.

But WOW there is so much info to be absorbed, along with new terms and techno babble that I just haven't mastered yet. So it does tend to make me feel a little stupid. Thankfully I found the Active Rain Newbies where I feel comfortable asking those "silly" questions that don't seem appropriate for the masses to hear:

1. What is a widget?

2. How do I post to Localism?

3. How do bloggers link to other blogs within their blogs?

4. Some bloggers have a lot of interesting stuff on the "right" of the screen with their pictures and info...what is all that and how do I get it?

5. What is del.ci.ous? (did I even spell that right?)

6. What is the Carnival of something, something?

7. How long before I stop feeling lost and that I just entered an amazing world where I want to be but don't belong?

Any help that new or old bloggers can provide would be much appreciated.

Oh and one last question...do die hard bloggers ever sleep? Because I am finding this to be a very addicting habit that may keep me up way past my bedtime.

Thanks for your help! Chelle- Realtor, Stager, and AR Newbie