Northern Virginia Real Estate Guide and Blog

Prince William Forest Park When You Are Told To "Take A Hike"

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:35:41 -0600

Arthur has spent many hours camping with both Boy Scouts and Rotary youth groups. He really does more there than "just take a hike"

Via Art Kruschka - Fairfax Prince William Stafford County VA Real Estate Service (First Virginia Realty Management):

The 15,000 acres of this national park is truly a forest and it also has

21 miles of bicycle accessible roads. Twelve of them are paved and 9 miles are gravel fire roads. Mountain bikes are needed for the fire roads.

37 miles of hiking trails - a variety of skill levels and lengths are available

Additionally, camping is a major park attraction. You can rent a cabin or pitch a tent and ride your bike or hike through the forest for several days. It is an economical way to enjoy several days" in the outside" and not spend a fortune on hotel or travel expense.

My wife and I have camped in the "Forest" with Boy Scouts, Rotary Youth Leadership, Presyterian Church Groups and family camping. We are extremely fortunate to have this national park in Prince William County.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience as real estate brokers in Northern Virginia. If you want a home to relax in after a workout at Prince William Forest Park, we invite you to try our

NO REGISTRATION PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Wordless Wednesday - All I Need Now Are The Lights

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:33:38 -0600

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

and contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Wordless Wednesday - Global Warming Is Turning Northern Virginia Tropical

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 06:18:35 -0600

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

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They've Known Their Mother Longer Than They've Known You

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:55:03 -0600

Over our 33 year career my husband and I have assisted countless first time buyers (singles or couples) make that all important first step to home ownership. We have even developed our own First Time Buyer's Guide that we review with them during their initial visit with us

As many of you know

they very frequently will call one or more family members (not necessarily Mom) to solicit their opinion on a property they like or
request the family member come to town to view the property or
if they are local, ask the family member to accompany them on the home search

I regularly hear newer agents complain about the intrusion on their professional capability

As a seasoned veteran of many first time home buyer real estate campaigns I suggest you reconsider your position. The first time home buyer

is, to say the least, somewhat apprehensive even though they want to purchase their first home. A family member can be their safe harbor
may be unsure of you even though you may have come well recommended from any number of sources - you have never been their nurturing influence.
may be relying on financial assistance from a family member and want to be certain they are spending the funds wisely

Whatever their reason, it is important to recall your first home purchase (if there was one) and empathize with the first time home buyer. If a first time buyer soliciting help from a relative disturbs you then you have some surprises coming later in your career that will really "rattle your cage."

You will be a much better REALTOR® and be better able to help your client meet their objective if you accept the fact that the first time home buyer usually comes with a built-in support mechanism - it's called family and sometimes "Mom".

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

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Sixty Eight Years Ago Today

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:26:38 -0600

"Yesterday, December 7, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan", from President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's address to a Joint Session of Congress on 12/8/1941

My husband, Arthur, was one of the few people in this forum who were alive at the time - he was 16 years old.

Ten months later he enlisted in the USMC and spent four years in the South Pacific and China. There is never a year that he doesn't pause on Pearl Harbor Day to pray for those who gave their lives for us in WWII and that none of us ever forget the effect that treacherous act had on the lives of so many American families including the Japanese Americans who were held in detention camps.

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

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They Were Built To Last In 1747

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:25:19 -0600

Rippon Lodge is thought to be the oldest colonial home in Prince William County and no longer a private residence. It certainly is among the oldest in Northern Virginia

It was built about 1747 by Richard Black-burn of Ripon, an old cathedral town in England. Colonel Thomas Blackburn, his son, was a contemporary and fought with George Washington. In that period the families of Mount Vernon and Rippon were on very intimate terms. George Washington even made reference in his diary to overnight stays at Rippon Lodge with Mrs. Washington

Its' ownership changed over the years, but was last owned by Admiral Richard Blackburn Black, another descendant of the Blackbiurn family, who was noted for his exploration of the North Pole with Admiral Byrd. The lodge was passed to Admiral Black's daughter in 1989. She later sold the property to Prince William County in 2000.

Although previously owned by famous military families the home is no longer available to be purchased by the public. However, Prince William County is home to many modern day miltary personnel, because of its' ease of transportation to

The Pentagon
Washington, DC
Fort Belvoir
MCB Quantico

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

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Beyond The Entrance to Northern Virginia Military Bases

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:21:51 -0600

I realize active duty military personnel with orders to one of the Northern Virginia military installations visit the "dot mil" sites long before they arrive in the area. They are very familiar with what services are available and where they are located at the various instsllations.

What is not provided by the DOD sites is an online directory of life beyond the guard post. Over the past 33 years as real estate brokers my husband and I have served hundreds of transferees (military and civilian) who relocated to Northern Virginia. That experience has enabled us to develop an online resource directory that includes more than 100 links to

Every county and city government site in the area as well as
Public records sites for every jurisdiction
Public School Sytem sites and a school evaluator site
Schedules for every bus, train, subway and ride share in Northern Virginia
Area colleges and universities
Real estate sales statistics for every jurisdiction
Museums, sports events, theatres, children's sites, etc

Northern Virginia Area Relocation Directory

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Northern Virginia. We invite you to try our

No Registration Northern Virginia Home Finder

and then contact Karen and Art at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area

Military banners used in this post were copied from military base sites

Interactive Maps for Virginia, Northern Virginia and Home Search Site

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:19:31 -0600

When you visit Virginia you become very aware "Virginia Is For Lovers" is the trademark motto of the Virginia Tourism Corporation. One "very cool" section of their site is the

INTERACTIVE MAP OF VIRGINIA

The toolbar at the top of the map has links titled

Welcome To Virginia
Places to Stay
Things To Do
Get Outside
Attractions
Events

You can hover over any area of the map, click on it and you will be redirected to a sectional map with the same information for that section of Virginia. For example

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

The tourism map is an excellent resource for visitors. Once you are here you may decide to stay and call Virginia home. You most certainly will need an experienced resource to assist you in a home search. Well, you landed at the the right place.

The Kruschka Team has been full time Northern Virginia Realtors® for more than 3 decades. We invite you to visit our newest site. It enables you to conduct a definitive home search. You can save your search criteria and receive an email alert when homes that match that criteria come on the market

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME SEARCH

Just like the Virginia Map you can search by

Area and Zip Code
Price (Minimum and Maximum)
Number of Bedrooms
Number of Bathrooms
Type Property

Potomac Club, Woodbridge VA - Real Estate Report as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:16:26 -0600

Potomac Club is a new community in Eastern Prince William County. The entire community features condominium ownership regardless of the style and type home

Potomac Club Condominium
Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	17	33
Average List Price	300,535	266,061	-11%
Average Sales Price	301,838	267,568	-11%
Seller Contribution	-14,727	-7,544	-48%
Net Sales Price	287,111	260,014	-9%

As of 12/7/2009/2009

The Link Below Is Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Potomac Club
Condominium Homes
Click Here

There are two important features about Potomac Club. The first is the focus on a 12 million dollar clubhouse. It has an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, pool tables, plasma television, conference room and work center. Meeting and entertainment facilities are avaiable for homeowners to reserve for private functions.

Second is proximity to public transportation. The VDOT commuter lot at Horner Road is less than 15 minutes from Potomac Club. There is bus service to the Springfield Metro as well as direct bus service to the Pentagon and Washington, DC

For those who prefer rail service the VRE Rippon Station is approximately 15 minutes from Potomac Club with service to L'Enfant Plaza and Union Station.

Restaurants, neighborhood type shopping, Potomac Mills and the new Wegman's supermarket are all within or less than 15 minutes. It is approximately 20 minutes to MCB Quantico.

As can be seen in the photos below, Potomac Club Condominium is still under construction.

To see any Potomac Club homes (new or resale) contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-562-1532. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Hunter's Ridge, Manassas VA - Home Prices Increase over 2008 as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:09:46 -0600

Hunter's Ridge is a community of large homes on 1+ acre lots located west of Hoadly Road along the Prince William County Parkway. Hunter's Ridge homes are on both sides of the Parkway and are approximately 11 years old.

Hunter’s Ridge
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	5	4
Average List Price	515,360	510,790,12525	-1%
Average Sales Price	488,130	497,250	+2%
Seller Contribution	-7,840	-7,125	-9%
Net Sales Price	480,290	490,125	+2%

As of 12/7/2009

The Link Below Is Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Hunter’s Ridge
Homes
Click Here

Commuting

It's approximately 15 minutes to Lake Ridge for commuter buses to the Pentagon and Washington, DC
Slug Lines (ride share) are also available in Lake Ridge at the Tackett's Mill shopping Center
Obviously, being located on the Prince William County Parkway facilitates travel westerly to Manassas and in an easterly direction to I-95
MCB Quantico is within 30 minutes

Schools

Signal Hill Elementary
Benton Middle School
Osbourn Park High School
Chinn Regional Library is approximately 10 minutes away

Community

Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 10 minutes
Lake Ridge Park, Marina and 9 Hole Golf Course is approximately 15 minutes from Hunter's Ridge
There is a bike/jogging path along the Prince William County Parkway from Woodbridge to Manassas
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with indoor pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting rooms is within 10 minutes
The two closest shopping centers are the Shops at County Center (minutes) on Hoadly Road and The Glen (10 minutes) at the intersection of Old Bridge Road and the Prince William County Parkway

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Prince William County area. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Ashland, Manassas VA - Homes For Sale and Real Estate Report as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:08:50 -0600

Ashland is a lovely community of 880 homes (detached homes and town homes) just east of Minnieville Road with two entrances on Dumfries Road (Route 234). It's approximately three miles to I-95.

Ashland
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	23	24
Average List Price	449,167	416,498	-7%
Average Sales Price	434,587	410,184	-6%
Seller Contribution	-9,372	-7,627	-19%
Net Sales Price	425,215	402,557	-5%

As of 12/7/2009/2009

Ashland
Town Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	4	1
Average List Price	254,700	190,000	NA
Average Sales Price	250,750	160,000	NA
Seller Contribution	5,563	0	NA
Net Sales Price	245,187	160,000	NA

As of 12/7/2009

The Links Below Are Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Ashland
Detached Homes
Click Here

To View Available
Ashland
Town Homes
Click Here

Commuting

Short trip to the commuter parking lot at Route 234 and US 1 to board the express commuter bus to the PENTAGON and WASHINGTON, DC
The same parking lot is home to a SLUG LINE with rideshare opportunities to both the Pentagon and Washington, DC locations
Approximately 15 minutes to MCB Quantico
I-66 is approximately than 20 minutes to the west

Schools

Ashland Elementary is in the subdivision
Benton Middle School is approximately 10 minutes
Forest Park High is less than 10 minutes

Ashland Community Advantages

Clubhouse with pool and tennis
Shopping at two nearby locations, Lake Montclair Center and Fortuna Village Center
Immaculately maintained community
Well planned with many different home elevations to avoid the "cookie cutter" look
Underground utilities
Sidewalks
Planned activities
LEESYLVANIA STATE PARK with boat launch to the Potomac River, summer boat storage and picnic facilities is approximately 20 minutes from Ashland.
PRINCE WILLIAM FOREST PARK 15,000 acre National Park with 37 miles of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin rental, camping and fishing is approximately 15 minutes from Ashland

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Prince William County area. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Winding Creek, Woodbridge, VA - Home Prices Equal 2008 as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:08:02 -0600

There are 400 homes in Winding Creek. It has two entrances on Minnieville Road and is approximately 5 miles west of I-95. Its' central location in eastern Prince William County makes it an ideal location for ease of commuting throughout Northern Virginia.

Winding Creek
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	15	11
Average List Price	356,920	336,364	-6%
Average Sales Price	339,233	337,955	0%
Seller Contribution	-6,207	-6,364	+3%
Net Sales Price	333,026	331,591	0%

As of 12/7/2009

The Link Below Is Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Winding Creek
Detached Homes
Click Here

Community Advantages

Pool and tennis club
Large usable lots
Underground utilities
Sidewalks
Wide streets
Fortuna Village Shopping Center is approximately 10 minutes. Lake Montclair Center and Staples Mill Center are approximately 5 minutes
Well maintained homes
Numerous home styles to prevent the "cookie cutter" look
Planned community activities

Commuting Options

Commuter buses to the PENTAGON, WASHINGTON, DC and the WASHINGTON NAVY YARD/BOLLING AFB are located at Dale Boulevard and Minnieville Road (Approximately 10 minutes)
Bus service to the FRANCONIA-SPRINGFIELD METRO is available at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
SLUG LINES can be found at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
MCB QUANTICO is approximately 15 minutes from Winding Creek

Schools and Libraries

Ashland Elementary
Benton Middle
Hylton High
Dale City Neighborhood Library is located in the Center Plaza Shopping Center
Chinn Regional Library less than 20 minutes

Recreation

Dale City Rec Center located on Minnieville Road with year round pool, fitness center and other recreational activities including an outdoor baseball batting cage.
Water Works Waterpark is located on Dale Boulevard in Dale City
Prince William Indoor Ice Rink is also located on Dale Boulevard
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is approximately 20 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 20 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 25 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 20 minutes
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 15 minutes

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Dale City/Woodbridge area. Contact Karen and Art at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

The Oaklands, Manassas VA - Real Estate Report as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:07:13 -0600

Entrance to The Oaklands is on Hoadly Road about halfway between The Prince William County Parkway and Dale Boulevard. The homes are approximately 6 years old

The Oaklands
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	15	6
Average List Price	295,823	272,958	-8%
Average Sales Price	289,080	279,000	-3%
Seller Contribution	-6,716	-9,079	+35%
Net Sales Price	282,364	269,921	-4%

As of 12/7/2009

The Links Below Are Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
The Oaklands
Detached Homes
Click Here

To Search For All Available
Woodbridge
Homes
Click Here

Commuting

Commuter buses to the PENTAGON, WASHINGTON, DC and the WASHINGTON NAVY YARD/BOLLING AFB are located at the Lindendale Road Commuter Lot (Approximately 10 minutes)
Bus service to the FRANCONIA-SPRINGFIELD METRO is available at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
SLUG LINES can be found at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
MCB QUANTICO is approximately 20 minutes from The Oaklands
Both the Prince William Parkway and Dumfries Road (Route 234) are each less than 10 minutes from The Oaklands.

Schools and Library

Marshall Elementary
Benton Middle
Osbourn Park High
See Prince William County Schools for more detailed information
Chinn Regional Library less than 10 minutes

Community Features

One and two car models on 7,000 square foot lots.
Three or four bedrooms homes with anywhere from 2 to 3.5 baths.
Sidewalks on both sides of the street
Concrete driveways.

Shopping

Between two neighborhood shopping centers, Hoadly Road Marketplace and The Shops at County Center
Ten minutes or less to Mapledale Plaza on Dale Boulevard

Recreation

Water Works Waterpark is located on Dale Boulevard
Prince William Indoor Ice Rink is also located on Dale Boulevard
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is less than 30 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 20 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 15 minutes
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 10 to 15 minutes

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Prince William County area. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.

Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Brooke Farm, Woodbridge VA - Real Estate Report as of 12/7/2009

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:06:07 -0600

Brooke Farm is a community of 100 six year old homes in one of the most convenient locations in Prince William County. As you exit the subdivision and turn right on Minnieville Road you are at the Tackett's Mill Commuter Parking Lot at Minnieville and Old Bridge Roads.

Brooke Farm
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	9	6
Average List Price	429,189	348,350	-19%
Average Sales Price	396,300	342,000	-14%
Seller Contribution	-6,145	-5,108	-17%
Net Sales Price	390,155	336,892	-14%

As of 12/7/2009

The Link Below Is Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Brooke Farm
Detached Homes
Click Here

No Registration
Northern Virginia
Home Finder

Commuting (This is where Brooke Farm really shines)

Tacketts Mill Commuter Parking Lot is less than 5 minutes
Commuter buse from Tacketts Mill operate to the PENTAGON and WASHINGTON, DC
SLUG LINES are also available at the Tacketts Mill Lot
About 10 to 15 minutes to the VIRGINIA RAILWAY EXPRESS WOODBRIDGE STATION
MCB QUANTICO is approximately20 minutes south against the traffic flow on I-95
Fort Belvoir is approximately a 25 minute drive during rush hour

Schools and Library

Occoquan ES
Woodbridge MS
Woodbridge High
See Prince William County Public Schools for more detailed information
Chinn Regional Library less than 10 minutes
Lake Ridge Neighborhood Library across Minneville Road in the Fairfield Office Park

Community

Tacketts Mill Shopping Center less than 5 minutes on the other side of Minnieville Road
Underground Utilities
Large lots
Beautifully maintained community
Professional and doctor's offices in the Lake Ridge Executive Park at Minnieville and Old Bridge Roads

Recreation

Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 10 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is less than 30 minutes
There is a bicycle and jogging path along the Prince William Parkway
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 15 minutes

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Woodbridge area. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Speechless Sundays - This Senior Citizen Still Works 24/7

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:40:46 -0600

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

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Speechless Sundays - My Husband Thinks There Is A Resemblance

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 09:04:48 -0600

My great grandmother's framed portrait hangs in our home

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

Didn't You Get The Email? It's December in Virginia

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:07:53 -0600

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

Wordless Wednesday - A Grand American Classic (Circa 1747)

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 07:02:51 -0600

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

I Thought I'd Heard Everything In 33 Years As A Realtor

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:29:00 -0600

Once you've hit the 33 year mark you think you've heard everything - Wrong. Yesterday I was called to list a home for sale that had been on the market with another agent for "QST" (Quite Some Time).

Since I had the prior listing available to me it wasn't all that difficult to determine the reason the home hadn't sold was that it was overpriced by about $50,000.

The husband met me at the door and turned me over to the wife for the "grand tour". She explained they owned land in Florida, wanted to sell and build a retirement home. We were "getting along swimmingly". However, it was now time to meet with "mister" and discuss price and marketing strategy.

As usual I reviewed my marketing program first (to the sound of applause) and then attempted a discussion on price.

"Mister", as she called him, interrupted saying, "I know all that - here is the deal"

We want to raise the price by $50,000 to $725,000 (this in spite of the fact it had been overpriced by $50,000)
There will be tremendous growth due to the expansion of Fort Belvoir and Marine Corps Base Quantico over the next several years increasing demand.
Since the prior listing agent is a friend we will only sign a three month listing and re-list with her in the Spring

I had to call on all my Sunday School training as a little girl and business experience to refrain from voicing my true feelings.

I simply thanked them for the opportunity to meet with them, but assured them I was unable to meet those conditions and serve their interests. "Mister" walked me to the door and, luckily, I was in and out in 45 minutes. Add one more episode to my ongoing "training".

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

Photo Editing Can Be A Picnik

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:39:37 -0600

No, I didn't misspell it - I'm talking about Picnik.com. It is a fast and simple way to edit photos that are reasonably good to begin with.

It comes in two "flavors"

Free or
A premium version for $24.95 per year

The aberration below was put together to show you some of the features without having to include 7 or 8 photos. You can:

Lighten or darken a picture with "auto fix" or manually. The photo on the left was captured from a National Park Service site - it would be too dark if it was a room going on MLS - hence the lightened version on the right
You can enter captions in a variety of fonts in an unlimited number of colors and sizes
The photos were seperated by a black border - both the size and color can be changed. Actually, the border is optional
The black frame with red interior is also adjustable both as to size and color if you want a frame
Although it wasn't necessary in this case you can staighten or "flip" a photo
The collage comes in a variety of configurations or just simple rows and columns.

The premium version has many more "fun" features than I need as a real estate broker. Additionally, I use Adobe Photoshop Elements 7 for "industrial strength" editing.

I am sure there are numerous excellent photo editors that will be reported by other members, but this is the one I am "selling" and I hope it can work for you.

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The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County - try our

NORTHERN VIRGINIA HOME FINDER

Letters FROM The North Pole To Lake Ridge VA In 2009

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:23:32 -0600

To all Parents, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles of Lake Ridge. If you have a "believer" who would like to receive a letter from the North Pole this year the Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association is proud to repeat this popular program again for 2009. It is easy to participate - just fill out the form below and mail it to LRPRA. To assure delivery prior to Christmas your order must be received no later than December 9, 2009. The form below was reprinted from Lake Ridge Today.

My husband and I have a unique perspective on Lake Ridge since we have

lived in Lake Ridge for 26 years
owned five properties in the community
raised our family here

Lake Ridge is one of the ten largest subdivisions in the United States.

38,000 residents
7,000 + residences
4,400 acres
1,200 acres of it are treed common ground
On the 2,100 acre Occoquan Reservoir

The Links Below Are Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Lake Ridge
Detached Homes
Click Here

To View Available
Lake Ridge
Town Homes
Click Here

COMMUTING

Express bus service to the Pentagon and Washington, DC is available within Lake Ridge and at the entrance to Lake Ridge in the VDOT Commuter Lot
Carpools usually meet at the VDOT Commuter Lot at the entrance to Lake Ridge - see Omnimatch for more specific details
Slugging (some erroneously call it hitching a ride which it is) is a result of the need to use HOV lanes on the I-95 as much as possible. Commuters form a line at a designated Slug Line Stop in Lake Ridge - the VDOT Commuter at the Lake Ridge entrance. For example, a driver will pull up headed for the Pentagon, but needs one more passenger to qualify for HOV-3. The first person in line going to the Pentagon will join the others in the car and away they go. It's free commuting for the slugger and gives the driver availability to HOV lanes on I-95 - win win!!
Train The Virginia Railway Express Woodbridge Station with rail service to Springfield, Crystal City and Union Station in Washington, DC is approximately a 20 minute drive from Lake Ridge in the morning rush hour. At Springfield you can switch to Metrorail that gives you access to the entire National Capital Area subway system.
Local buses run regulary throughout the Greater Woodbridge area as well as other areas of Prince William County. Lake Ridge is one of the communities served by Omnilink
MCB Quantico is less than 30 minutes by car
Fort Belvoir is approximately 30 minutes by car

SCHOOLS

One of the popular features about Lake Ridge is that all schools attended by Lake Ridge children are in Lake Ridge.
No elementary school is more than 5 or 6 minutes from the student's home
Antietam Elementary
Lake Ridge Elementary
Old Bridge Elementary
Rockledge Elementary
Springwoods Elementary
Lake Ridge Middle
Woodbridge Senior High School

LIBRARIES

Lake Ridge Neighborhood Library in the Fairfield Office Park
Chinn Regional Library less than 10 minutes

SHOPPING

Tacketts Mill located at the entrance to Lake Ridge was the first of the three centers. In addition to the normal complement of retail stores it includes commercial office space. It's here you'll find McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts and Baskin Robbins
Lake Ridge Commons at Old Bridge Road and Hedges Run Drive is about midway through Lake Ridge. It has our one and only Starbucks
Festival at Old Bridge is also on Old Bridge Road near the western end of Lake Ridge at Smoketown Road. It has the Lake Ridge US Post Office Annex

RECREATION

Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is in Lake Ridge
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 10 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is approximately 30 minutes
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is approximately 30 minutes
There is a bicycle and jogging path along the Prince William Parkway
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage, ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 15 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 10 minutes

LAKE RIDGE VIDEO There are photos of homes and interesting scenes of Lake Ridge

To Search For All Available
Northern Virginia
Homes
Click Here

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time real estate experience in the Lake Ridge area.

Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

The Prince William County VA School Population Is Increasing

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:14:31 -0600

In a recent article in the Washington Examiner it was noted that:

Prince William County schools are growing!!!

School enrollment in Prince William County for the 2009-2010 school year increased by almost 3,000 students - the largest one year jump in almost two decades.
The official student count of 76,656 is a 4.1% increase over 2008

The two primary factors are:

The resale of foreclosed properties
The demand for the affordable housing available in Prince William County

As a long time (26 years) resident I am encouraged by this news. Traditionally, population increases have a positive impact on housing values. That should make the purchase of a Prince William County home a sound investment.

***********************************************

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time real estate experience in Prince William County - try our

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY HOME FINDER

and contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Westridge, Woodbridge VA - Town Home Real Estate Report as of 11/30/2009

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:12:29 -0600

Westridge could easily have been named West Lake Ridge, but having its' own distinctive name sets it apart from Lake Ridge even though they are joined. Although consideably smaller than Lake Ridge it has

Wooded common areas
Treed lots
Community pool and tennis
Detached homes, town homes and condominiums

Westridge
Town Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	40	33
Average List Price	258,451	247,749	-4%
Average Sales Price	254,787	244,685	-4%
Seller Contribution	-6,237	-4,498	-28%
Net Sales Price	248,550	240,187	-3%

As of 11/30/2009

The Links Below Are Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Westridge
Detached Homes
Click Here

To View Available
Westridge
Town Homes
Click Here

COMMUTING

EXPRESS BUS SERVICE to the PENTAGON and WASHINGTON, DC is available at the Festival at Old Bridge shopping center in Lake Ridge - less than 10 minutes
CARPOOLS usuallyy meet at the VDOT Commuter Lot at the entrance to Lake Ridge - see OMNIMATCH for more specific details
SLUGGING (some erroneously call it hitching a ride which it is) is a result of the need to use HOV lanes on the I-95 as much as possible. Commuters form a line at a designated SLUG STOP in Lake Ridge - it is the VDOT Commuter at the Lake Ridge entrance. For example, a driver will pull up headed for the Pentagon, but needs one more passenger to qualify for HOV-3. The first person in line going to the Pentagon will join the others in the car and away they go. It's free commuting for the slugger and gives the driver availability to HOV lanes on I-95 - win win!!
RAILROAD The Virginia Railway Express WOODBRIDGE STATION with rail service to Springfield, Crystal City and Union Station in Washington, DC is approximately a 20 minute drive from The Glen in the morning rush hour. At Springfield you can switch to METRORAIL that gives you access to the entire National Capital Area subway system.
LOCAL BUS SERVICE Local buses run regularly throughout the Greater Woodbridge area as well as other areas of Prince William County. Lake Ridge is one of the communities served by OMNLINK
Fort Belvoir is approximately 30 minutes
MCB Quantico is approximately 30 minutes

SCHOOLS AND LIBRARY

Westridge Elementary - in the community
Woodbridge Middle - approximately 15 minutes
Woodbridge High - less than 10 minutes
Chinn Regional Library less than 5 minutes

SHOPPING - it doesn't get any better than this!!!

The Glen Shopping Center with Safeway, Panera Bread, CVS Pharmacy and numerous restaurants is approximately 5 minutes
Festival at Old Bridge is on Old Bridge Road near the western end of Lake Ridge at Smoketown Road. It has a US Post Office Annex and is less than 10 minutes.
Lake Ridge Commons at Old Bridge Road and Hedges Run Drive - less than 10 minutes

RECREATION

Pool,tennis and clubhouse in Westridge
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is less than 5 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is less than 30 minutes
There is a bicycle and jogging path along the Prince William Parkway.
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 10 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 15 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is less than 10 minutes

Comparable Communities
Lake Ridge
Montclair
Brittany

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Saratoga Hunt, Woodbridge VA - Real Estate Report as of 11/30/2009

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:11:33 -0600

Saratoga Hunt is a community of newer homes located on Minnieville just south Cardinal Drive. The homes were built by Richmond American and are sited on lots ranging from 1/4 acre to 1/2 acre. There are no new homes available in Saratoga Hunt.

Commuting Options

Commuter buses to the PENTAGON, WASHINGTON, DC and the WASHINGTON NAVY YARD/BOLLING AFB are located at Dale Boulevard and Minnieville Road (Approximately 10 minutes)
Bus service to the FRANCONIA-SPRINGFIELD METRO is available at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
SLUG LINES can be found at the Horner Road Commuter Parking Lot
MCB QUANTICO is approximately 15 minutes from Saratoga Hunt

Schools and Libraries

See the Prince William County School Locator to obtain specific information regarding the schools for a specific address in Saratoga Hunt
Dale City Neighborhood Library is located in the Center Plaza Shopping Center
Chinn Regional Library less than 20 minutes

Saratoga Hunt
Detached Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	29	16
Average List Price	453,048	409,400	-10%
Average Sales Price	437,873	407,719	-7%
Seller Contribution	-8,261	-7.055	-15%
Net Sales Price	429,612	400,664	-8%

As of 11/30/2009

Recreation

Dale City Rec Center located on Minnieville Road with year round pool, fitness center and other recreational activities including an outdoor baseball batting cage.
Water Works Waterpark is located on Dale Boulevard in Dale City
Prince William Indoor Ice Rink is also located on Dale Boulevard
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is approximately 20 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 20 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 25 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 20 minutes
Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 15 minutes

The Link Below Is Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
Saratoga Hunt
Detached Homes
Click Here

To Search For Available
Woodbridge Area
Homes
Click Here

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Saratoga Hunt and Woodbridge area. Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

The Glen, Woodbridge VA - Town Home Real Estate Report as of 11/30/2009

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:10:40 -0600

The Glen is a community of 290 town homes - some with and some without garages. The entrance at the junction of Old Bridge Road and the Prince William Parkway is an extremely convenient location for east/west travel in Prince William County. Additionally,they are close to a whole host of commuting, shopping and recreational opportunities

The Glen
Town Home Market Report

Homes Sold and Settled
Year-To-Date 2009 Vs. Total Year 2008

	2008	2009	+/- %
Number of Homes	17	16
Average List Price	270,292	242,188	-10%
Average Sales Price	260,679	241,132	-7%
Seller Contribution	-7,048	-6,623	-6%
Net Sales Price	253,631	234,509	-8%

As of 11/30/2009

The Links Below Are Always Connected To The Area Multiple Listing Service
The Listings Are Updated Every Hour

To View Available
The Glen
Town Homes
Click Here

To Search For All Available
Woodbridge
Homes
Click Here

COMMUTING

EXPRESS BUS SERVICE to the PENTAGON and WASHINGTON, DC is available at the Festival Shopping at Old Bridge shopping center in Lake Ridge - less than 10 minutes
CARPOOLS usually meet at the VDOT Commuter Lot at the entrance to Lake Ridge - see OMNIMATCH for more specific details
SLUGGING (some erroneously call it hitching a ride which it is) is a result of the need to use HOV lanes on the I-95 as much as possible. Commuters form a line at a designated SLUG STOP in Lake Ridge - it is the VDOT Commuter at the Lake Ridge entrance. For example, a driver will pull up headed for the Pentagon, but needs one more passenger to qualify for HOV-3. The first person in line going to the Pentagon will join the others in the car and away they go. It's free commuting for the slugger and gives the driver availability to HOV lanes on I-95 - win win!!
RAILROAD The Virginia Railway Express WOODBRIDGE STATION with rail service to Springfield, Crystal City and Union Station in Washington, DC is approximately a 20 minute drive from The Glen in the morning rush hour. At Springfield you can switch to METRORAIL that gives you access to the entire National Capital Area subway system.
LOCAL BUS SERVICE Local buses run regularly throughout the Greater Woodbridge area as well as other areas of Prince William County. Lake Ridge is one of the communities served by OMNLINK
CROSS COUNTY CONNECTOR between Woodbridge and the Manassas Mall stops at the entrance to The Glen
Fort Belvoir is approximately 30 minutes
MCB Quantico is approximately 30 minutes

SCHOOLS AND LIBRARY

Westridge Elementary - less than 10 minutes
Woodbridge Middle - approximately 15 minutes
Osbourn Park - approximately 20 minutes
Chinn Regional Library less than 5 minutes

SHOPPING - it doesn't get any better than this!!!

The Glen Shopping Center with Safeway, Panera Bread, CVS Pharmacy and numerous restaurants is part of the community
Festival at Old Bridge is on Old Bridge Road near the western end of Lake Ridge at Smoketown Road. It has a US Post Office Annex and is less than 10 minutes.
Lake Ridge Commons at Old Bridge Road and Hedges Run Drive - less than 10 minutes

RECREATION

Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is less than 5 minutes
Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is less than 30 minutes
Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is less than 30 minutes
There is a bicycle and jogging path along the Prince William Parkway.
Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is approximately 10 minutes
Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 15 minutes
Old Hickory Golf Club is less than 10 minutes

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in Prince William County.
Contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.