Lake Anna VA Real Estate Specialist - Kathleen Elim

Mommy, What is This Stuff?

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 14:53:20 -0600

Caught some pictures of the pups experiencing their first snow. The decided right away that it tasted good which made it hard to get any pictures of their faces. Actually Rocky kept his back end towards the camera most of the time so I only got a couple of shots of him and several more of Lindy.

Here's pretty Lindy getting a good look.

I love Lindy's curly tail.

Rocky's one face shot. He's mixing his usual diet of pebbles with something new, a little snow.

Rocky needs equal time so here's his back shot.

It really does not look as though Lake Anna is going to receive that much snow this time but it is fun to be at home, watching football (good for The College of William and Mary...they won their playoff game 24-3), and enjoying the warmth inside while looking out at the lake through the snowflakes.

Holiday Events in the Lake Anna Area

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:53:39 -0600

Now is the time to find out what activities are planned in our area for the upcoming holidays. These are just a few. Others will be mentioned in future posts. See how many you can fit in your schedule.

Louisa is Ready to Start Celebrating

Louisa's Christmas parade, with an expected 40 floats, will start at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, December 5. The parade will begin at the corner of Patrick Henry Drive and Cutler Road turning left on Main Street to Fredericksubrg Ave. and then back to the fairgrounds.

There will be approximately 45 vendors including First Fruit Ministry which will be conducting a raffle/food drive to benefit the Community Cupboard. Every two cans of food donated will entitle the donor to one ticker for a drawing to be held at 4:00 p.m. Entrants must be present to win the prizes which include a number of items donated by local business. This is a wonderful opportunity to spread some holiday cheer by donating to a very worthy cause.

St. Jude Catholic Church is having its Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 5th between 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. There will be crafts and a bake sale, pictures with Santa, and a silent auction. St. Jude is located on routes 22/33 between Mineral and Louisa.

Hanover County

Tomorrow morning there will be an open house and guided tours at St. John's Church in Richmond, where Patrick Henry made his history-changing "give me liberty or give me death" speech.

Historic Hanover Tavern, where Henry once tended bar as a young man, will have an open house and holiday craft fair from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. tomorrow.

At noon re-enactors will dramatize Henry's famous "Parson's Cause" speech during a free performance at the historic Hanover Courthouse across the street from Hanover Tavern.

Scotchtown, Henry's home when he was Virginia's first governor, will have a Christmas open house with colonial dancers and musicians from 7:30-9:30 tomorrow night. All events are free admission except for the Open House at Scotchtown, which cost $5.

Santa breakfasts at firehouses begin Sat. December 5th

A number of Hanover County Fire Departments have Breakfasts with Santa each December. Beaverdam VFD kicks off this local holiday tradition tomorrow. Breakfast will be served from 8-10 a.m. and kids can have their pictures taken with Santa. The Beaverdam Fire Station is located at 16150 Trainham Road in the village; call 449-6345 for more information.

Next Saturday, December 12th, the fire departments of Ashland, Chickahominy and Hanover Courthouse will have their own Santa Breakfast events.

Spotsylvania County

It's time for Spotsylvania's annual Holiday Parade. The parade begins at Spotsylvania Middle School and continues to R.E. Lee Elementary. You'll get to see bands, floats, high school Jr. ROTC, mules, children's groups, horses, alpaces, and best of all...Santa. It starts at 2:00 p.m. so be sure to get there in time.

Fredericksburg City

Be sure to plan for the Fredericksburg Jaycees Christmas Parade downtown along Caroline and Princess Anne streets beginning at 5:30 p.m., Saturday, December 5th. There will be an apprearance by the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

An Early Christmas Gift from Active Rain

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:43:58 -0600

An early Christmas gift from Active Rain arrived today. Well, perhaps it would be more accurate to say through the goodness of Active Rain I have received a gift (aka referral) from Gene and Renee Jantzen, fellow members.

My phone rang, saw a number I was not familiar with, and answered to find Sheri Salley on the line. Sheri is administrator for the Jantzen Team outside Austin, TX. Within the first sentence or two she mentioned Active Rain. What sweet words.

Yes, it was like hearing the name of a friend.

Of course I was interested in a referral for Lake Anna. That's my home turf. I love showing people homes or land around the lake. It's fun to see their reaction which is almost always surprise that the lake is as large as it is and that we have such a nice variety of homes.

The most recent referral I had through Active Rain was from Lenn Harley and that resulted in my helping a young couple and their little boy find a second home on the water at Lake Louisa, a small lake near Lake Anna.

Just remember, all you boys and girls, if you are good Santa may send you a referral through Active Rain. It may come before Christmas like mine did or it may be a little late but if you play by the Active Rain guidelines and participate it will happen to you.

Right now I had better get back to work in case Santa has any more gifts for me.

Merry Christmas and many thanks to Active Rain and its members!

For more information on the wonders of Active Rain you might enjoy:

What's Better than a Referral Form from Active Rain?

What's Better than a Referral Form from Active Rain, Part II?

Seller Agency is a Fraud...(But Only Sometimes)

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:01:16 -0600

Seller agency is a fraud...(but only sometimes). Having just read the post, Buyer Agency is a Fraud...(Sometimes) by Maya Paveza, I must agree that this has happened to me also.

Now the other side of that coin is the agent "posing" as the seller's agent. Perhaps you have met a few of them throughout your real estate career.

Here are some of the comments I have heard as a buyer's agent:

Bring an offer, my client is getting desperate.

The listing is about to expire and I need something out it.

The sellers have a contract on another place with a kick/out so they need to get this sold now.

The house is in terrible shape but once we get the seller's to sign off on an offer I can then talk them into getting all the repairs done.

We have it listed for $XXX,XXX but I'm telling you the seller will take $ZZZ,ZZZ.

My seller has lost his job and will not be able to make the payments much longer.

My clients' daughter's husband left her and they want to move closer to help take care of the grandchildren.

They'll really take a lot less than the asking price.

Hey, there's always a lot of wiggle room. Just have your folks make an offer.

I can't help it if my sellers are unreasonable about the list price but I'm sure if you bring a contract they'll see the light.

We all know that if an owner authorizes their listing agent to share this information with other agents it is absolutely OK to do that. However, my concern is with those that have never had this conversation with their clients.

There are agents, whether representing the seller or the buyer, that only see $$$$$ signs. Unfortunately, I have seen it on both sides.

I certainly realize that this is a business and that we earn our living by helping folks buy and sell real estate.

To me real estate is a SALES and a SERVICE profession. The service we provide is as important as the ultimate sale that hopefully ensues.

The great thing is that, by far, most of the agents I have had interactions with since I've been in real estate (1986) have done a very good job of representing and protecting their clients' interests.

Understanding that protecting your client's interest protects yours as well will make you successful and trusted as a REALTOR.

Stars & Stripes

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:26:15 -0600

This was such a unique flag that I could not resist taking a photo of it and sharing it with all of you. It may not be a little short on stars but I believe it is long on love. The same can be said of the stripes. What counts is not the number of either but the sentiment. This flag was made by one of the lower classes at Matoaka Elementary School in Williamsburg, VA to honor our service men and women, both those serving and those retired.

A Wonderful Way to Honor Our Veterans and Active Duty

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:02:32 -0600

Today, as we did last Veterans Day, we celebrated at Matoaka Elementary School in Williamsburg, VA. Our granddaughter, Autumn, is a student there and each year they honor the veterans in their lives. Col. Jim Bleecker, along with about 75 other veterans, was in attendance for the program and for the luncheon.

Autumn and Grandpa Jim (also celebrating his 80th birthday)

The Fifth Grade put on the following program

This is America

The Pledge of Allegiance

The Star-Spangled Banner

American Tears

Armed Forces Medley

The Lights of Freedom

It is wonderful to see the children and the staff at Matoaka Elementary recognize the many active duty and retired veterans that make up their families. It is important that we be reminded that without the sacrifice so many have made and continue to make, we would not have the freedoms we treasure.

A Lake Anna Beauty for $270,000

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:30:23 -0600

Kathleen Elim | RE/MAX Edge | lakeanna.kate@gmail.com | 540-226-1964

238 Oak Haven Drive, Mineral, VA

Gorgeous hardwood floors, Great Room, first floor master bedroom, freshly painted interior, deep front porch & large deck, and secluded back yard.

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $270,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	2,240
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	1.35 acres
HOA/Maint	$42 per month

DESCRIPTION

LAKE ANNA water access home in The Waters at Lake Anna. LOOKS NEW. Interior freshly painted with 3BR, Den, 2+ BA, (1st floor Master BR, breakfast room, beautiful hardwood and ceramic floors, open Great Room, and well-equipped kitchen with plenty of cabinets, floor to ceiling pantry, and Cornerstone counters. Huge front porch & deeded boat slip. Two car garage & paved driveway. LARGE 20 x 16 DECK. Community amenities: swimming pool, tennis courts, club house, and soccer field = A GREAT BUY.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

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

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse	- Swimming pool(s)	- Tennis court(s)
- Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- 20 x 16 foot deck

- 8' deep front porch

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Porch	Great Room
Dining Room	Kitchen
Master Bedroom	Deck

Contact info:

Kathleen Elim

RE/MAX Edge

lakeanna.kate@gmail.com

540-226-1964

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 3, 2009, 4:24pm PST

Blogging to Enhance Relationships with Clients, Prospects and My Community

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:55:46 -0500

There are a number of ways that I have used my blog to enhance relationships with clients, prospects, and my community. By e-mailing them posts that I have written about activities, businesses, and other topics related to Lake Anna they are able to continually learn more about the place they love, or hopefully, will grow to love.

One of my favorite things to do is to take pictures throughout the year and to share them. As many of our property owners are second home owners they may not get to Lake Anna every season. By taking pictures showing Lake Anna after a snowfall (which does not happen often) and writing about it they get to see the lake from a different perspective. The same at this time of year. In case my former clients were not able to be here during the peak fall foliage I am able to share that with them.

When I have written a post that deals with one of the local businesses I often email that as well, both to my former and current clients. This helps them get a better idea of what is offered here in the event they are looking for a place to eat or a place to shop. E-mails with links to the post and hard copies are given to the business owners as well.

New clients and prospects are encouraged to read my blog and I specify some of the posts that they might find informative and others that present a pictorial guide to Lake Anna and the surrounding areas. Posts are written describing plans for new development such as Cutalong, a proposed golf community on the shores of Lake Anna, as that is always of interest to residents and prospective lake owners.

Folks like to know about the different organizations, for instance the Lake Anna Busines Partnership and the Lake Anna Kayak Club, that have been formed. By sharing posts that deal with these, they have a better idea of what is offered.

Not everyone that inquires about Lake Anna knows exactly where it is and what else is in the vicinity. One of the posts that answered these questions, Where is Lake Anna? is part of what is forwarded to those wanting to know more about the location.

Sometimes I write about things that catch my eye such as an array of unique mail boxes. By noting the address of the homes I have then been able to get the names of the owners and mail the post as well as information on my blog.

Writing posts has opened up my eyes even more to the beauty of Lake Anna and I love sharing that with others. I know that it has provided new business for me and, I sincerely hope that it has provided a better sense of Lake Anna to its readers. I make sure that all of my marketing materials contain the address, that includes among other things my business card (on the back), my e-mail signature, all flyers, mailings, and advertisements.

,Autumn at Lake Anna,Virginia

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:42:51 -0500

Autumn at Lake Anna, Virginia is a delightful time...just like every other season!

Come see for yourself.

The view from the dyke three bridge which separates the two sides of Lake Anna. This photo was taken looking towards the private side. No matter which side of the lake you see, it is beautiful. This is a scene that is replicated over and over again from one end of lake to the other.

Dyke three is one of the favorite fishing spots for anglers with or without a boat. If you have not tried your hand at fishing here give it a try. You may be very happy with the results.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Think You Know It All? Think You Know ANYTHING? Think Again. REBAR Camp Redefines Learning.

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:06:06 -0500

The REBAR Camp, recently held in Northern Virginia, was highly successful from all accounts. Fortunately for those of us that did not attend, several attendees have posted about what they learned there. I'm re-blogging one of them but suggest you search for others as they are very informative also.

Via Laura Rubinchuk - The LJR Group - Your Northern Virginia and D.C. Realtor (Keller Williams Realty):

Have you ever been in a room with over 100 people who were DYING to share every ounce of information and knowledge they have with YOU? Who put a pause on their own learning to bring you up to speed with what they’ve already learned and have proven are successful techniques? If not, you’ve clearly never been to REBAR Camp.

There’s a community that exists in the real estate world that you should be a part of. It’s a family of people who have a different way of thinking, of communicating, of existing, and of growing a business. We’re like-minded. We like information fast, like our consumers. We crave new relationships, like our clients. We respond quickly when made fun of in a tweet (@DerekMassey…Go Yankees!).

As a Gen-Y-er, people often assume I innately know how to use any kind of technology – whether it’s teaching them to turn on the computer or using social media for their real estate business. Well, let me tell you…while you can stalk me all day long on:

Tuesday proved to me that I’ve only scratched the surface of the infinite possibilities out there, and that I better get back to work!

Heather Elias & Danilo Bogdanovic both are active agents and bloggers in Loudoun County, Virginia. But they do it their own ways. They’re both successful…for being exactly who they are, using their own voices to tell their own stories.

Jennifer Klaussen, Frank Llosa, and I are all agents and bloggers in Arlington County, Virginia. But guess what? We all have VERY different ways of talking about our local real estate market (and the kicker is that I live 1 block from Frank!).

Daniel Rothamel, The Real Estate Zebra, has taken personal branding and reinvented the concept. Who would have thought an animal could be so quickly associated with a real estate agent (or his lil’ gal baking in the oven). From the Zebra’s blog you get an idea of what he’ll be like if you call him up and say “I want to buy a house.” He is in person, who he appears to be online.

Why does this work? Because we’re all individuals, with different backgrounds, different experiences, different voices. We’re all different people. We have different things to say. So as a result, we attract different types of clients. And that’s ok!!!

The point of social media is to cultivate and enhance relationships, take your cyber friends and make them In-Real-Life friends, face to face. Build your network of fellow agents, attorneys, lenders, inspectors, etc. and bring that to the table when you meet new clients. Draw from their experiences to make YOU better.

#REBCDC was a full day of meeting cyber friends, who are actually people! People who are willing to teach you everything they know, to help make you better.

Some Takeaways:

For those of you who think Twitter is the equivalent of Acid Wash Jeans, cool now, but fading fast…you don’t get it (BTW- acid wash jeans were a fad I was never a part of, hello…I was born in 1984, by the time they were no longer cool, I was just learning how to dress myself). It’s a new way to share information quickly, engage in conversation, enhance relationships, and learn. If you’re not learning and growing, you’re dying, right?

Facebook is Google for stalkers. Meet a new agent you admire? Friend them. Stalk them. (Meet a rich/tall/dark/handsome man and want to know if he’s single? Friend him too. #justsayin…I digress.) But guess what? The person who gets your name from a friend, or finds you online, or sees your sign post in a yard – they’re going to want to know more about you too, without feeling pressured by yet another sales-y real estate agent.

Posterous is your life in pictures. Ever have one of those “I wish someone was here to see this” moments? Now all of your 1,000 followers and readers can be, with a simple email. This was one of my “to-do” items thanks to Derek Massey.

Pay it forward. Whether it’s helping to raise $1,000 for DC Central Kitchen, or teaching someone a profitable tip you just learned, helping someone else reach their goals will help you in the end. Ziglar said “I believe you can get everything in life you want, if you will just help enough people get what they want.”

And with that…I wish ALL of the sponsors (especially @TechChix for organizing), teachers, and friends I made at REBAR Camp DC the very best. A big THANK YOU!

To Assist You in Planning Your Life...

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:40:32 -0500

To assist you in planning your life . . .

I love you!

Raga Elim
Chief Adviser, Public Policy
and Head of the Washington, DC Office
Rio Tinto

This is from an e-mail I just received from one of my sons. These are the "little" things that make my life so rich and happy.

Raga sent me the upcoming schedule for his daughter's field hockey team and this is the message. Allegra is an eighth grader on the varsity field hockey team at her school. He knows how much we love to attend as many of our grandchildren's activities as we possible can.

This is day number one as a varsity player. When Allegra saw us on the sidelines she gave us a big grin. Believe me, we were as happy as she was and wouldn't have missed it for the world.

There are many material things that we can give our children and our grandchildren. Even more important than that is what we give of ourselves, love and time.

Real estate is a profession that calls on us to sometimes work seven days a week and 16 hours a day. Yet it is also a field that provides us flexibility.

Fortunately there are so many tools that we have at our disposal that enable us to work from many places other than our offices. Having the ability to receive calls, e-mails, and text messages while standing on the sidelines (that's where I usually am so I can click away on my camera) makes it less stressful. Clients and prospects are just a cell phone away.

Make the most of that flexibility and find a healthy balance between your work and your life.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Halloween.....Country Style

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:22:10 -0500

Out here, in the countryside around Lake Anna, the Halloween decorations may not be very plentiful but they sure are fun to see. I like the fact that people tend to use things they have around their place. Here are two examples, photos I took at one of the area farms.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Foggy Morning at Lake Anna,Virginia

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:57:09 -0500

One recent morning on my way to the Virginia Horse Center down in Lexington I crosed one of the bridges here at Lake Anna and noticed this house. Although the fog almost obscured the house and boat house I could not resist taking a photo. I'm not suggesting folks slow down on bridges unless there is very little traffic as we have out here. Even then I make sure no one is behind me or coming down the road.

This is precisely why my camera sits comfortably on the passenger's seat within easy reach of my itchy fingers. I am lost when it is not there.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Wordless Wednesday...Nothing Stops Them

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:31:33 -0500

One morning as I set out for Charlottesville, I passed Sturgeon's Creek Marina on the shores of Lake Anna. As I was driving by I glanced at the water (I always do) and noticed the fog and a couple of fishermen setting off. I turned around, pulled in, and saw that they were having a fishing tournament. Quite a number of boats were lined up ready to go. I took several shots and here is one of them.

Can you see them back there?

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Housing Credit Extension...Coming, Coming, or Gone

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:06:18 -0500

Senator Harry Reid, Majority Leader and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, a Montana Democrat, have proposed extending the credit of $8,000 until April when the credit would be reduced to $6,000, then in July to $4,000, and in October reduced to $2,000 for homes that close in each successive quarter, ending December 31, 2010.

At this point there is nothing in this proposal that would extend the credit to anyone other than first time buyers and those that have not owned a home in the past three years.

However, there are other proposals being considered that would extend the current credit and include those with a higher income (amount to be determined) and perhaps to move up buyers.

With the September drop in new home sales, attributed to the end of the current tax credit for first-time buyers, more attention is being focused on these proposals.

Information compiled from Reuters, Associated Press and other sources.

Photo courtesy of Microsoft Clip Art

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Wordless Wednesday...This Reminds Me of the State of Our Politics

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:47:05 -0500

This Reminds Me of the State of Our Politics

Equally Divided

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Fabric Hut & Gift Gallery

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:45:39 -0500

Although we live out in the country on Lake Anna we are close to the town of Louisa. Louisa is the county seat for Louisa County which borders on the lake. We may be far from shopping strips and outlet malls we are not without a very special spot to shop for a multitude of items.

Whether looking for fabric, threads and zippers, seasonal flags for the front of your house, a huge variety of collectibles, gift items galore such as a large assortment of picture frames, candles, toys, and even ties for that man in your life you will find them at the Fabric Hut & Gift Gallery in Louisa.

FABRIC HUT & GIFT GALLERY

203 E. Main Street

Louisa, Virginia 23093

(540) 967-1630

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Golden Sunset at Lake Anna, Virginia

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 21:14:42 -0500

I'm in love with sunsets. I cannot seem to get over the beauty of them. Although I have tons of pictures of the sun going down, I still take more. I delight in the fact that we see some truly gorgeous ones. The fact that the setting sun, and the wonderful hues it creates in the sky, are often reflected in the water. That doubles my pleasure.

If you love sunsets perhaps we can find a place for you here at Lake Anna where you can feast your eyes on many spectacular ones. I'll do all that I can to help you

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Focus Your ActiveRain Reading with Blogs Posted By Key

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 15:32:52 -0500

John Novak discover a neat way to search for blogs by four different methods using one or all. I thought that more of you might like to learn about this. It's great when one of our members discovers something that is helpful and shares it with all of us.

Via John Novak - Las Vegas and Henderson NV Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty The Marketplace):

One of the strengths of ActiveRain is the diversity of its membership. While real estate agents make up the bulk of the community, there are also loan officers, inspectors, appraisers, title reps, virtual assistants, home stagers and 21 other categories.

We used to be able to select posts from specific job categories, but that functionality has been 'misplaced' in various redesigns and site improvements. Tonight I stumbled upon a 'secret page' that can really help users target their reading -- Blogs Posted By Key.

There's no navigation link to this page; the address is http://activerain.com/blogs?posted_by_key.
Notice the four drop-down boxes for Category, Posted By, Sort by, and Posted within in this screenshot:

How can you use this page to your advantage? Suppose you're a lender looking for ideas on recent market reports. Choose category = Market Reports; posted by = Loan Officers; sort by = Date Posted; posted within = 1 week.

Maybe it's time to build your business and you're considering a virtual assistant. Select category = Tips and Advice; posted by = Virtual Assistants; sort by = Date posted; posted within = Anytime.

Just finished a day where two escrows cancelled, the buyer didn't show, and you accidentally ran over your iPhone? Maybe some humor from the AR Inspectors will help! Choose category = Off topic, humor, etc; posted by = Inspectors; sort by = Number of comments; posted within = Anytime.

A Special Request to the AR Team

These four drop-down boxes provide some powerful search functions. Is there a way to incorporate them in the main blogs page? I've highlighted two areas that could be moved (or removed) to make room for them.

AR readers: What do you think? Is this a feature that you find useful?

Big Sky Right Here in Fredericksburg, Virginia

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:29:45 -0500

One of the things that I like about going to the outdoor sporting events in the fall at Fredericksburg Academy, is the chance to watch my grandson play soccer and my granddaughter's field hockey team. It takes me back to the days when I watched my three children participate in a number of different sports. It was tough for me to miss a game. These days it is usually my grandchildren that I get to watch.

With my camera always handy, I have hundreds (maybe thousands) of photos showing one or another taking part in horse shows, swim meets, softball, soccer, basketball, or flag football. I also soak up the scenery. Yesterday while watching a soccer game I couldn't get over how pretty the trees looked and what fun the clouds seemed to be having as they traversed the sky. We had abundant clouds set against a beautiful blue sky which seemed to be saying to me, "Take my picture so you can enjoy me over and over again." I did and I will. I hope you do too.

Remember to keep your eyes open and soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Lake Anna Kayak Club

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:53:40 -0500

Make time in the next week or so, if at all possible, to check out the colorful trees along the shores of Lake Anna. One way you can do this is to join members of the Lake Anna Kayak Club at noon on Saturday, October 24th. They will be leaving from High Point Marina where you might still be able to rent a kayak at Lake Anna Outfitters, the headquarters for the club.

While it is free for club members, non-members only need to pay $6.00. Be sure to check to see if there are any kayaks available to rent and if there is any change in plans.

To join or for more information about the Lake Anna Kayak Club contact Chris McCotter at (540) 894-3540 or mcfish@gemlink.com.

Chris organized the club in May 2009. It has an open membership policy and a $30.00 membership fee for couples while singles pay $15.00. You can learn more about club activities at http://lakeannakayakclub.blogspot.com/

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Buddies...Wordless Wednesday

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:35:18 -0500

Buddies...Wordless Wednesday

Lindy & Rocky

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Stalk the Neighborhood

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:05:07 -0500

Stalk the neighborhood. That is the number one advice an HGTV show provided buyers in a program I watched this afternoon. How true.

Get a good look at the area where you are considering a purchase. Not only is it important that you are sold on the house, make sure you are sold on the location also. So here we go again with the advise REALTORS have been providing for years and years. It's all about location, location, location.

"Stalking" the neighborhood will give you an opportunity to see:

What age children live there if this important to you.
Is it a relatively quiet neighborhood?
Is it one that has restrictions that you feel that you can live with? Often it is after a contract is written and accepted that buyers receive the Property Owners Association's package which includes, among other things, rules and regulations you will be agreeing to abide with as long as they are in place. By driving around you can see for yourself if fences are allowed and what type, whether boats or rv type vehicles are allowed to be parked on the lot, are free-standing basketball hoops permitted, and the list goes on.
Are the homes maintained the way you plan to maintain yours?
What are the traffic conditions like?
Is there on street parking?
If you need mass transit, is it available within a reasonable distance?
Is you house you selected the most expensive one in the neighborhood? If so, you may feel like royalty but does it make financial sense?
What are the minuses and pluses in your eyes?

There are many other things that are to be considered. Make sure you take the time to do that. Hopefully you will be in that home in that neighborhood for some time. Make it the right decision all around.

Yes, "stalking" sounds scary but it sure is catchy and emphasizes the importance of not only knowing what you are buying but where you are buying.

My Lake Anna Neighborhood...Make it Yours Too

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 12:22:26 -0500

My Lake Anna Neighborhood...Make it Yours Too. Yes, that's possible. If you have been thinking about a move to the country and would also like to be near or on a lake, check out Lake Anna.

These are a few of the photos I took on my way home today. They were taken within a few miles of my home and some within a few hundred feet. This is what I see when I leave home. I love it. Even after seventeen years I never tire of see these sights. No matter how often I drive these roads I always see some things for the first time and others I have enjoyed over and over again.

I hope you enjoy these glimpses of my neighborhood and get an idea of why I love it.

Each time I pass this barn and stable on Partlow Road I notice how well maintained they are.

I liked the silouette affect.

A driveway along my ride home.

Fall is definitely here but the flowers are still blooming.

Muddy sheep...a reflection of recent rain.

Carrying a camera around at all times is a necessity. That way I get to share these impressions over and over again and I get to share them with all of you as well.

What is out there for you to see and photograph? If you are in the habit of carrying your camera with you you know the pleasure I get from mine. If you don't think about doing it. As a REALTOR this gives me a great way of showing others how wonderful this area is. As they say, a picture is worth a 1,000 words.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

CNBC.com Quoting Active Rain's Elizabeth Weintraub...Way to Go, Elizabeth

Kathleen "Kate" Elim LAKE ANNA, VA Real Estate (RE/MAX Edge) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:10:13 -0500

CNBC.com is not a web site that I have gone to that often, however, I did check it today. While on there I saw the title of an article, How to Move Your House in a Tough Market, which I thought might be interesting to read and it was.

Not so much for the content (although it was but once I started reading it I saw a familiar name. It was none other than Active Rains's Elizabeth Weintraub. Not only is Elizabeth a broker with Lyon's Real Estate in downtown Sacramento she is also a big contributor to Active Rain.

This is not the first time I have seen an Active Rain member's name. It's like seeing the name of an old friend in a place where you don't expect to see it. Mind you, I have never met any of these people but who needs to. We know them from seeing their pictures over and over again and reading their posts time and again.

When I saw Elizabeth's name it felt as though I had seen the name of a friend. That is what Active Rain has done for me.

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Welcome Aboard - photo by Kate Elim, Realtor, Lake Anna, VirginiaIf you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Contact Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.

Lake Anna VA Real Estate Specialist - Kathleen Elim

Mommy, What is This Stuff?

Holiday Events in the Lake Anna Area

Now is the time to find out what activities are planned in our area for the upcoming holidays. These are just a few. Others will be mentioned in future posts. See how many you can fit in your schedule.

Louisa is Ready to Start Celebrating

Hanover County

Santa breakfasts at firehouses begin Sat. December 5th

Spotsylvania County

Fredericksburg City

An Early Christmas Gift from Active Rain

Seller Agency is a Fraud...(But Only Sometimes)

Seller agency is a fraud...(but only sometimes). Having just read the post, Buyer Agency is a Fraud...(Sometimes) by Maya Paveza, I must agree that this has happened to me also.

Now the other side of that coin is the agent "posing" as the seller's agent. Perhaps you have met a few of them throughout your real estate career.

We all know that if an owner authorizes their listing agent to share this information with other agents it is absolutely OK to do that. However, my concern is with those that have never had this conversation with their clients.

There are agents, whether representing the seller or the buyer, that only see $$$$$ signs. Unfortunately, I have seen it on both sides.

I certainly realize that this is a business and that we earn our living by helping folks buy and sell real estate.

To me real estate is a SALES and a SERVICE profession. The service we provide is as important as the ultimate sale that hopefully ensues.

The great thing is that, by far, most of the agents I have had interactions with since I've been in real estate (1986) have done a very good job of representing and protecting their clients' interests.

Understanding that protecting your client's interest protects yours as well will make you successful and trusted as a REALTOR.

Stars & Stripes

A Wonderful Way to Honor Our Veterans and Active Duty

Autumn and Grandpa Jim (also celebrating his 80th birthday)

The Fifth Grade put on the following program

This is America

The Pledge of Allegiance

The Star-Spangled Banner

American Tears

Armed Forces Medley

The Lights of Freedom

It is wonderful to see the children and the staff at Matoaka Elementary recognize the many active duty and retired veterans that make up their families. It is important that we be reminded that without the sacrifice so many have made and continue to make, we would not have the freedoms we treasure.

A Lake Anna Beauty for $270,000

Blogging to Enhance Relationships with Clients, Prospects and My Community

,Autumn at Lake Anna,Virginia

Autumn at Lake Anna, Virginia is a delightful time...just like every other season!

Come see for yourself.

The view from the dyke three bridge which separates the two sides of Lake Anna. This photo was taken looking towards the private side. No matter which side of the lake you see, it is beautiful. This is a scene that is replicated over and over again from one end of lake to the other.

Dyke three is one of the favorite fishing spots for anglers with or without a boat. If you have not tried your hand at fishing here give it a try. You may be very happy with the results.

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Think You Know It All? Think You Know ANYTHING? Think Again. REBAR Camp Redefines Learning.

To Assist You in Planning Your Life...

To assist you in planning your life . . . I love you! Raga ElimChief Adviser, Public Policy and Head of the Washington, DC OfficeRio Tinto

This is from an e-mail I just received from one of my sons. These are the "little" things that make my life so rich and happy.

Raga sent me the upcoming schedule for his daughter's field hockey team and this is the message. Allegra is an eighth grader on the varsity field hockey team at her school. He knows how much we love to attend as many of our grandchildren's activities as we possible can.

This is day number one as a varsity player. When Allegra saw us on the sidelines she gave us a big grin. Believe me, we were as happy as she was and wouldn't have missed it for the world.

There are many material things that we can give our children and our grandchildren. Even more important than that is what we give of ourselves, love and time.

Real estate is a profession that calls on us to sometimes work seven days a week and 16 hours a day. Yet it is also a field that provides us flexibility.

Make the most of that flexibility and find a healthy balance between your work and your life.

Halloween.....Country Style

Out here, in the countryside around Lake Anna, the Halloween decorations may not be very plentiful but they sure are fun to see. I like the fact that people tend to use things they have around their place. Here are two examples, photos I took at one of the area farms.

Foggy Morning at Lake Anna,Virginia

Wordless Wednesday...Nothing Stops Them

Housing Credit Extension...Coming, Coming, or Gone

At this point there is nothing in this proposal that would extend the credit to anyone other than first time buyers and those that have not owned a home in the past three years.

However, there are other proposals being considered that would extend the current credit and include those with a higher income (amount to be determined) and perhaps to move up buyers.

With the September drop in new home sales, attributed to the end of the current tax credit for first-time buyers, more attention is being focused on these proposals.

Wordless Wednesday...This Reminds Me of the State of Our Politics

This Reminds Me of the State of Our Politics

Equally Divided

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Fabric Hut & Gift Gallery

FABRIC HUT & GIFT GALLERY

203 E. Main Street

Louisa, Virginia 23093

(540) 967-1630

Golden Sunset at Lake Anna, Virginia

Focus Your ActiveRain Reading with Blogs Posted By Key

John Novak discover a neat way to search for blogs by four different methods using one or all. I thought that more of you might like to learn about this. It's great when one of our members discovers something that is helpful and shares it with all of us.

A Special Request to the AR Team

Big Sky Right Here in Fredericksburg, Virginia

Lake Anna Kayak Club

While it is free for club members, non-members only need to pay $6.00. Be sure to check to see if there are any kayaks available to rent and if there is any change in plans.

To join or for more information about the Lake Anna Kayak Club contact Chris McCotter at (540) 894-3540 or mcfish@gemlink.com.

Chris organized the club in May 2009. It has an open membership policy and a $30.00 membership fee for couples while singles pay $15.00. You can learn more about club activities at http://lakeannakayakclub.blogspot.com/

Buddies...Wordless Wednesday

Buddies...Wordless Wednesday

Lindy & Rocky

Stalk the Neighborhood

My Lake Anna Neighborhood...Make it Yours Too

CNBC.com Quoting Active Rain's Elizabeth Weintraub...Way to Go, Elizabeth

CNBC.com is not a web site that I have gone to that often, however, I did check it today. While on there I saw the title of an article, How to Move Your House in a Tough Market, which I thought might be interesting to read and it was.

To assist you in planning your life . . .

I love you!

Raga Elim
Chief Adviser, Public Policy
and Head of the Washington, DC Office
Rio Tinto