Richmond Virginia Real Estate Market Updates 2009

Real Estate Agents Hang in There

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:42:11 -0500

Inspirational Women in Business
For all women in the real estate business this year
By internet research from Wanda Fears

In Difficult Times Many Famous Women Found Strength:

Women in business continue to be the shining light in the current market. According to the Center for Women's Business Research, female entrepreneurs generate $2.3 trillion to the American economy and employ more than 18 million people. There are many examples of women in business success stories but we did not have to dig deep to find the truly inspirational female business leaders. The following women in business have overcome great odds and serve as a beacon for all those to follow. Each of these examples provides varying degrees of hardship and success. Some, like former Washington Post CEO, Katherine Graham, had no idea of the ability in her until tragedy struck. Others, like Oprah Winfrey have the spark of greatness within them. As William Shakespeare stated, "Be not afraid of greatness; some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them."

Inspirational Women in Business Katherine Graham, CEO Washington Post: Graham's rise to publishing leadership was something "thrust upon" her. Following her husband's death from suicide depression, Katherine had chosen to fill her husband's shoes as the Post's publisher. Katherine had no idea of the greatness ahead of her but as stated in her autobiography "Personal History", "What I essentially did was to put one foot in front of the other, shut my eyes, and step off the edge". That courage led her to become the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Katherine's success can be summed up by her words, "To love what you do and feel that it matters — how could anything be more fun?"

Ruth Handler, Founder of Mattel & Barbie Creator: California female entrepreneur, Ruth Handler transformed her belief of girls playing with paper dolls, to dolls with breasts being vital to the child's self-esteem. That belief led to the icon everyone knows as Barbie. From a garage in 1945, Mattel grew to become a Fortune 500 company. Ruth's understanding of self-image continued later in life when she developed the "Nearly Me" breast prosthesis following a mastectomy. Disliked by feminists, Handler's ability to stick to her vision shows the trait required by all small business owners.

Oprah Winfrey, Chairman Harpo, Inc.: The first African-American woman to become a billionaire, Oprah overcame her own trials and tribulations stemming from child abuse. Oprah began her television career at seventeen and her star was lit when she turned around the failing "AM Chicago" show. Oprah's business and career success can be attributed to her passion to help others. Oprah clearly states her corporate mission for The Oprah Winfrey Show "...is to use television to transform people's lives, to make viewers see themselves differently and to bring happiness and a sense of fulfillment into every home." These women represent a small sampling of many great women in business influential. The one common thread among the stories of success is success does not come easy. Success goes hand in hand with hardship and challenges. Never lose sight of your small business struggles...they are a requirement to great things.

Reading material.

• Mary Kay Ash Quotes - Mary Kay Ash Biography - Business woman and founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics. • Sarah Beeny Quotes - Real Estate developer and British television presenter of Property Ladder in the UK. • Rhonda Byrne Quotes - Australian author of The Secret book and DVD, which talks about the law of attraction. • Chin Ning Chu Quotes - Chinese born business consultant and author of "The Asian Mind Game" • Hillary Clinton Quotes - Hillary Clinton Biography - New York senator and wife of the former President of the United States of America, Bill Clinton. • Wendi Deng Quotes - Chinese born American business woman and wife of the media mogul Rupert Murdoch. • Julia Gillard Quotes - Popular female politician of the Australian Labor Party. • Melinda Gates Quotes - Melinda Gates Biography - Cofounder of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and wife of the richest man in the world. • Louise Hay Quotes - Louise Hay Biography - American spiritual author and founder of Hay House publishing company. • Janet Holmes a Court Quotes - One of Australia's richest women and respected businesswoman of the Heytesbury company. • Jackie Huggins Quotes - Australian Aboriginal human rights activist and respected leader. • Kathy Ireland Quotes - Former fashion model and now successful entrepreneur. • Angelina Jolie Quotes - Angelina Jolie Biography - All Angelina Jolie - Famous actress, model, and humanitarian from the United States. • Helen Keller Quotes - Helen Keller Biography - Famous American author and inspirational activist that was both blind and deaf. • Holly Madison Biography - Playboy bunny and young girlfriend of the media mogul Hugh Hefner. • Angela Merkel Quotes - Famous German politcian and first ever woman Chancellor of Germany. • Michelle Obama Quotes - Michelle Obama Biography - Wife of the African American politician of the Democratic party Barack Obama. • Suze Orman Quotes - Suze Orman Biography - Personal Finance author, Certified Financial Planner and Media Personality. • Sarah Palin Quotes - Sarah Palin Biography - All Sarah Palin - Female politician, governor of Alaska, and Republican party VP nominee in 2008. • Gina Rinehart Quotes - Australian business woman and first female billionaire. • Anita Roddick Quotes - Anita Roddick Biography - British entrepreneur, environmentalist and Body Shop Founder. • J.K. Rowling Quotes - JK Rowling Biography - Famous billionaire British writer of the Harry Potter series of books. • Martha Stewart Quotes - Martha Stewart Biography - Entrepreneur, Media personality and billionaire Lifestyle guide. • Ivana Trump Quotes - Former wife of the New York businessman Donald Trump. • Ivanka Trump Quotes - Ivanka Trump Biography - Daughter of the billionaire real estate developer Donald Trump. • Suzie Welch Quotes - Wife of the former GE CEO Jack Welch (Suzie Wetlaufer).

• Meg Whitman Quotes - Meg Whitman Biography - Former CEO of the online auction website eBay. • Oprah Winfrey Quotes - Oprah Winfrey Quotes 2 - Oprah Winfrey Biography - Female Billionaire Talk Show Host and Actress.

Wanda Fears ABR CRS GRI Realtor,Long and Foster www.wandafears.com wanda@wandafears.com www.facebook.com/wandafears 804-909-2777

Green Building is Here to Stay.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:25:42 -0500

Some buzz words... Local, recycled, long lasting, low impact, low voc emissions.

Check out the U.S. Green Building Council for new updates.

We will see more engineered floor joists, stronger, straighter,more stable, with more design choices.

Composite boards will also be used more. The parks system is actually using these boards to wind through low grounds for walking paths. Much better than salt treated.

Flooring, look for new bamboo prefinished with almost indestructible coatings.Linoleum is also back but not your mother's old style, but new high grade long lasting.

Look for milk paints low VOC paints, water based polyurethane, and stains. Or use of just tung oil on woodwork or floors.

There is more usage of of sisal or hemp rugs, especially room rugs that can be rolled up and cleaned, and reused.

Insulation can now be cotton batting, rock wool, soy based and sticky cellulose. Look into other alternatives that are more efficient.

Newer HVAC geothermal is a little more costly up front, about 12,000 vs 8000 for heat pump; but saves 75% of heating bills and last twice as long as a heat pump. and no noise to deal with. Average saving is about 2000 or more a year on average home. A worthwhile investment.

And don't forget tank less hot water heaters. Why do you want to heat water all day versus just when you need it.

By 2012 they will be phasing out incandescent bulbs. Try fluorescent. Why? They last 10 times as long, and save much energy. LED's are also becoming available. Improvements are being made to these products all the time.

Foundations are changing, manyare concrete being poured into molds.

Check out these products and be sure to make sure the installer is familiar with the products he is installing. Check references and if there are LEED's certified.

I hope some of this information is helpful to the average home owner re modeler, as well as to anyone considering building.

yours Wanda Fears,

Realtor,Long and Foster, Richmond, Va.

www.wandafears.com

wanda@wandafears.com

804-909-2777

www.facebook.com/wandafears

Virginia Commonwealth University/A Great Investment in Real Estate for Parents.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:41:46 -0500

Richmond Virginia has some great investment options for parents right now in the area around Virginia Commonwealth University, the Bio Tech park, and Medical college of Virginia.

Some job changes and companies relocating have put some reasonable priced properties on the market and parents are scooping them up.

it makes sense if student is going to be here for 4-6 years depending on the major.

And with the 8000 tax credit for first time home buyers (put you child's name on property), the savvy parents can get down payment and closing cost back.

There are some stressed sellers who need to sell; they have already relocated to another city.

Several developers are building 600 + more apartments around VCU in the next year, so there is demand; but rent is wasted money.

Purchasing is a good investment. Rent out two Bedrooms to other students and keep one for your student.

Make him or her the manager and pay them a small sum to manage and write off their spending money on taxes. Talk to your accountant.

Richmond is a great college town. Cultural events go on almost every weekend.

There is the Asian festival, the Greek Festival, the Indian Pow Wows in King William, the Armenian food festival, the Folk Music festival, and tons of out door free music concerts.

Hurry just one month left for 8000 tax credit for first time home buyers, can put your student on loan and cosign. Investment VS Rent. Plus nowadays mortgages are cheaper than rent.

See

www.venturerichmond.com

Face Book@ http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736643159&ref=name

Call 804 909-2777

email: wanda@wandafears.com

web www.wandafears.com

Voice Pad available from Wanda Fears at Long and Foster in Richmond Va.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:24:45 -0500

From: Wanda Fears ABR CRS GRI, Realtor, Long and Foster

Subject: Long and Foster Richmond Va. welcomes Voice Pad

Hello

Our company, Long and Foster, just went live on Voice Pad .

The system can be used immediately to identify "ACTIVE" homes listed in the MLS. This is very exciting and will be a helpful tool. Since we just went live, I am just starting to learn all its benefits.

You can use this system to look up any "ACTIVE" listing that has a street address that is listed in MLS. Anytime, Anywhere 24/7.

For example, call the Long and Foster Voice Pad line 215-337-4308 toll free.
Put in house number of house sitting in front of. It will prompt you as to the street and you will hear a description of choices.

It will then send a listing brochure to your email once registered. Any listing from any agent is available to you, in the privacy of your home. Then email me if you interested in seeing on of them.

Email me to register you for this free service.

wanda@wandafears.com (your name , email and Phone number)

Let me know what you think.

Keep this number handy so you can use it at anytime!!!!!!!!!!!!!Voice Pad line 215-337-4308

I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Email me today!!!!!

Wanda Fears ,ABR CRS GRI, Long and Foster
804 909-2777
www.wandafears.com
wanda@wandafears.com
If you know someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please pass their information on to me, and I will take care of the rest.

Many thanks.
Wanda Fears

Great for First time home buyers, VCU/MCV Parents, Sellers,buyers

Listen to your Agent

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:39:35 -0500

Listen to your agent

Dear Mr. and Ms. Seller,

There are NO easy sales these days. I do not pick the listings. I merely enter some search parameters looking mostly for price, size, age, etc. and MLS picks the homes. I am getting the competition. I do the best I can, with the information I gather. I study the data closely and adjust the comps. Even the last two months can change things.

You may have had your home appraised, but I know the market.
I also know the advertising marketing needed to sell your home. This is not an amateur market. You need a career agent with much Real Estate education, like a CRS (like a masters) designation.

No matter which agent you eventually hire; have the faith in them. They are trying to do a job. They work for you. Trust them. Note: Real estate agents are no. 5 in the most stressful jobs today. Please be appreciative of their efforts. Lay people have no idea what goes on in the average day of a real estate agent.

Clients that second-guess a good agent, and I mean one with credentials and education; will lose most of the time. The agent usually loses too (a lot of advertising $ spent and the potential commissions). Remember we work for free until it sells. How long would most people work for free with out the promise of being paid. The average listing can take 4 months now to sell. Many never sell because sellers do not believe that the market will not give them more than what their property is truly worth.

As a Seller, you obviously enjoy researching and trying to determine property values; and you know a lot. There is so much information on the Internet today, but you do not do this everyday.

My livelihood depends on making sales. I cannot afford to spend 500-2000 dollars on a listing and then the seller is not prepared to listen.

That has happened several times this past year. I always think that if I give them enough data, and they get no contract, then they will listen. Wrong.

Condition, price and location determine the possibility of a sale.

There is no trend of agents listing at a lower price. I recently heard that from a potential seller. Most agents are listing at what the market dictates. If they were listing low, we would be moving more houses instead of an inventory of 9000 (Richmond Va.) listings on the market taking an average of 120-180 days to sell.

If by chance we could come to an agreement, and if you still decide to list at the higher price than I tell you; I will require an upfront advertising budget of 300. When and if the property sells, that upfront fee would be rebated off the commission. I cannot afford to advertise an overly priced property. You will then need to adjust your price every 30 days, to keep it on the market.

Often the seller may never drop the price or worse yet, pull it off the market. This is not an exact science. The price we decide to list for, may be right on or wrong. It is only a guesstimate. The market does not care what you, the seller, needs as profit to buy your next dream home.

Agents and buyers look now at tax assessment and what you paid for your home; it is a matter of public record. You are not the only one with access to lots of data. Buyers too, have access to much data.

Go check out open houses and see what the homes near you are priced at. What do you get for that price? Do not go look at houses to buy but houses like your property. This is your best avenue right now.

I hope this helps you Mr. and Mrs. Seller. Your agent is working hard to sell your home.

Remember when interviewing an agent, the above information may come in handy.

Many agents will list at the higher price, basically buying the listing; but if it does not sell, you both loose.

www.wandafears.com 804-909-2777 email wanda@wandafears.com

End of Year 2008 Housing Report for Richmond Virginia. 2009 is already better.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:51:59 -0500

Dear Client,

I hope you are viewing your market snap shot of homes values in you area. It is always nice to keep up with the market. I hope you and family still are enjoying your home.

Here is another report on the Richmond Market in general. Your financial planners keep you abreast of your investments. I am also trying to keep you abreast of one of your largest investments.

Call me if you have any questions and please recommend me to friends and co-workers looking for a good Realtor.

A CRS designated Realtor is like having a masters in real estate. Since the market slow down, I have taken the opportunity to further my education.

I stay on top of the market and the influence of the Internet in today's market for sellers and buyers. It's a great time to buy and sell a house. Even if one does not get what their neighbors got last year, their buying power is so much stronger this year.

Yours Wanda

Wanda Fears, Realtor ABR CRS GRI
Long and Foster
cell: 804-909-2777

www.wandafears.com
e-mail:wanda@wandafears.com

Central Virginia Area Housing Market 2008

•
Virginia and the Central Virginia region have fared much better than the U.S. thus far, and are expected to do so going forward.
•
The Central Virginia region ended 2008 with overall home sales down 23%, but average home prices down just 3%.
•
The number of pending sales at the end of 2008, while down from 2007, was not down by as much as sales, indicating a potential for improvement in the first quarter of 2009.
•
As of the end of the third quarter, the U.S. foreclosure rate was 1.84% of housing units, and in Richmond metro it was 1.03%. Of the 100 largest metro areas, Richmond metro ranked 73rd in foreclosures.
Central Virginia Housing Market Trends - Fourth Quarter
•
Fourth quarter 2008 sales were down 33% in the CVR MLS compared with the fourth quarter of 2007.
o
In the Richmond Metro Area, sales were down 21%. In the Tri Cities area, sales were down 31%.
•
Prices were down by much less than sales in the fourth quarter. Across the CVR MLS, the average sold price was $246,637, down 8% from the fourth quarter of 2007.
o
Prices were down 14% in the Richmond Metro Area and down 5% in the somewhat lower-priced Tri Cities Area.

•
In 2008, over 11,200 homes were sold in the CVR MLS, with more than 80% of home sales occurring in the Richmond Metro Area.
•
Overall home sales in 2008 were down 23% compared to 2007. Home sales were down fairly uniformly across the region.

•
The average price of a home sold in the CVR MLS in 2008 was $264,467; down just 3% from the 2007 average price of $273,032.
•
Prices were down 3% in both the Richmond Metro and Tri Cities Areas. Some local markets experienced flat prices or even slight increases in 2008.
•
Nearly three-quarters of homes sold in the CVR MLS had a sold price below $300,000. Only 7% of homes in the CVR MLS sold for $500,000 or more.

Sellers Agents ,Seeking out the Echo Boomers the Next Buyers of Your Home.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:22:01 -0600

"Selling your home to the next Generation of Buyers"

In case you have not heard Echo Boomers are the kids of the baby boomers. They way out number the baby boomer generation, and they are the new home buyers over the next few years. There is a projected housing shortage in 2011 because of their demand. They want 24/7 info. social networking, lots of information and most of it anonymously

if you are selling your home, it is important to hire and agent to seek these buyers out. Your want to hire an Internet savvy agent with lots of credentials, like ABR( Accredited Buyers Rep), CRS ( Only 4% of real estate agents have this coveted designation,Certified Residential Specialist), and GRI ( Graduate of the Real Estate institute.

Today's seller should want their listings on Zillow, Craig's List, and 30+ other major sites. The seller's agent must go where the echo boomers go for information and to get the listings sold.

As a seller, you may think that you do not need help putting your listing on these web sites.

A professional agent that does this as a full time career agent is the best source of where to, and what to, put on these sites.

Seek out a CRS Designated Agent today, a listing agent that has taken the social networking and technology courses in the last 2 years;

One that is keeping up with our challenging and changing times.

As a seller you will be glad you did.

These are not amateur times we are in.

Go to www.804property.com
Free market reports about on your home’s value

24/7 Marketing?

This means that I market your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. What the consumer wants today is information quickly, easily, honestly and without the traditional hassles. Successful marketing hinges on this exact concept and this is exactly what my 24/7 marketing plan offers.

Why Use 24/7 Marketing?

The traditional Realtor ® guards information as secret and privileged. Ever tried to find out the information you want on an advertised home? Frustrating, isn’t it?

I take a different approach. My 24/7 marketing plan is designed to offer the consumer all of the information they need easily and at their convenience without all the hassles.

And How, Exactly, is This All Achieved?

My pledge to you, as my client, is to get the highest price for your home, the most favorable terms, in the least amount of time and with the least inconvenience to you. Even in good real estate markets, the competition is tough. My job is to market your home to get it sold. My Pro-Active Marketing Plan includes, but is not limited to, the following:

My Marketing Plan

•   First, I analyze the recent sales and current listings within your geographical area and conduct a detailed inspection of your home. I use this information to determine your home’s fair market value as well as for marketing purposes. The market analysis enables me to develop a target market for your home, that, together with the right price, will generate the optimal number of prospects.
•   A Long and Foster sign with my name on it will be promptly placed on your property, if possible. I will be marketing your home in a number of ways and the strong Long and Foster sign attracts prospective buyers. My name and contact information appears on the sign to ensure that interested callers will be directed straight to me, the agent who knows more about your home than anyone.
•   I promote your home 24 hours a day to the entire real estate industry and the world through the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). With MLS entry, your home will be exposed to thousands of agents and their buyers immediately.
•   I will take multiple photographs of your home and/or arrange for a virtual tour to be used in both color brochures and other advertising. My attractive, colorful advertising materials are very professional and promote the best features of your property.
•   An open house for local real estate agents will be scheduled as soon as practicable. This is an outstanding opportunity to provide your home with early exposure to salespeople who are working with today’s buyers.
•   I promote your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through my explosive Internet marketing plan. Hundreds of people visit my website and e-mail me with requests for more information regarding listings and local area real estate. In addition, your home will be marketed on the top real estate websites in the country.
•   I email home information to prospective buyers. My interactive website offers 24/7 access to information on any homes for sale. Buyers are automatically updated daily via email if they desire. This innovative tool is invaluable for marketing my listings.
•   Unlike many agents, I always give complete details to prospective buyers who inquire about your property. That includes price, street address, bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage and whatever else the prospect might want to know.
•   In addition, I use the reverse prospect search feature on the Multiple Listing Service. This allows me to match your property with the vast resource of buyers in the system and proactively notify other agents even before they have the new listing information.
•   In short, you will enjoy a wide spectrum of full media advertising opportunities. Your home will enjoy the full impact of my broad, professional coverage, including: display advertising, national and international advertising in magazines and web sites, Internet advertising (every day, 24 hours a day, until it’s SOLD!), target marketing, brochure boxes, yard signs, brochures, open houses, agent-to-agent advertising, and more. My Pro-Active Marketing Plan is designed to encourage prospects to call me.

If you can have 24/7 MARKETING, why settle for anything less?

Wanda Fears, ABR GRI CRS Realtor Long and Foster Richmond Va.
wanda@wandafears.com Call 804-909-2777

A Challenging Year in Real Estate( Richmond Va.) But Still Much To Be Thankful For in This Country

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:06:16 -0500

This is an update on your market in Richmond Va, and comments on the market in general.

Granted it has been a trying year, but Richmond has not fared badly. Average prices in the area are from 250-280 with many better than average deals out there. There is plenty of good inventory at premium prices as sellers are offering reasonable negotiations. Every month we list and every month we sell homes.

National Association of Realtors reports home sales in August were up 3.1 percent over July. We are selling 5 million plus homes a year. The median existing home price was 212,400. Down 7.1 % from last year. Even Florida and California are selling again. Builders are letting inventory drain off. That is good news for exiting home sales. This should help bring supply and demand back in to balance.

Interest rates remain in the 6's. My interest rate 15 years ago was 7.25. Yes, you need a down payment now. No more 100 % loans. But we have found that people need to invest in their homes. They will have a financial loss, if they don't pay the mortgage. And yes, people can no longer use their house as checking accounts. One buys a car with a car loan, one buys furniture by saving, and one pays off credit cards as soon as possible. Since when is it okay to use your home as a bank. It's like putting a lien on your home, each time you write an equity line check.

Investments mean just that. You put a down payment on a property. You upgrade where its needed, and you make repairs when it's needed. You live in it for 5-7 years, you sell it for a good price, and you make a profit. Then you reinvest with more money down the second time. Third time. Fourth time.

Let's all get back to the American dream of responsible home ownership. If you have friends or family who still rent and seek to improve their net worth; Encourage them to save and invest in America. Own a Home . Don't let politicians,wall street or nay-Sayers discourage them from doing what Americans have always done.

It is firmly believed that April 2008 marked the bottom of the US housing market. Many of these mortgage companies have been holding on to bad debt with their head in the sand, hoping it would go away. That is why you are hearing so much about it now. The bottoming is happening right now. The mortgage companies are now acting more responsible. The housing bust is now 3 years old. Housing prices peaked in July 2005.

The boom made housing un-affordable for many American families,especially first time home buyers. These first time home buyers are needed to keep the market viable. As a result it now takes 19% of income of the average home buyer, and 31% of the first time home buyers monthly income to purchase a home. These were the levels of income needed in the 1990s and early 2000s for a home purchase. With prices dropping 10-15 % in the last three years,homes are back to being affordable.

Most home owners will now see a a slow increase in value, as buyers come back into the market. More home sales and smaller price declines means fewer homeowners will be upside down. They will thus have less incentive to walk away and opt for foreclosure. When there is this stabilization of values, there will be a huge impact on economy. Perceptions will change.

Yours Wanda Fears, Realtor ABR GRI CRS

"one of 4% of CRS designated agents in the country"

Please email or call me if you have questions about our market.

"We can work it out together" 804-909-2777 Wanda@wandafears.com

www.wandafears.com

Sellers: Beware of the Cost of Deferred Maintence

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:35:03 -0500

Buyers expect a home to be in good shape. Replacing the roof and painting, replacing the HVAC are not value added in a buyers market. They are expected!

If a seller neglects their home, and decides to sell; they will be hard pressed to recoup these costs in a higher sales price.

Buyers are looking for homes than have been maintained during ownership, and value those homes more than quickly fixed up homes for resale.

Many home repairs, if not made promptly, will cause other problems.

Leaky roof may cause the sheathing to be replaced, as well as mold and drywall issues.

Uncleaned and unmaintained gutters may case water to back up and ruin the wood trims around the house.

Plumbing leaks under the house again cause mold.

Not changing air filters cause the HVAC units to work harder and less efficiently and shorten life span.

Caulking in baths and under toilets,not kept up can cause replacement of bath flooring.

Fireplaces not cleaned can cause overheating and crack and are very expensive to repair.

Clean, clean, clean. Windows, baths, closets, kitchen, light fixtures, attic, yard, garage. Even clean older worn carpets. Put the brightest light bulbs the fixtures will allow in all sockets.

Why is it people are more aware of changing the oil in their car, than keeping up with maintenance of the biggest investment they own.

Sellers need to consider a pre-sale inspection and offer it to the buyers prior to a contract. Leave it in a note book on the table with the listing information. This easy access can put buyers at ease and more apt to write a contract if everything has been disclosed and repaired.

Leave the major renovations to the buyer, but offer them a solid and well kept home.

"Remember do unto others as you would have them do unto you." (Most sellers are buying a home too)

Wanda Fears ABR GRI CRS

Long and Foster Realtors

email:wanda@wandafears.com

www.wandafears.com

Richmond, Virginia

804-909-2777

Parental investment options for Students of VCU /MCV Richmond Va. Long and Foster

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:03:01 -0500

Homes prices in Richmond Virginia ,especially condos, are good buys right now. A 4 BR room house can house 4 students or better yet a condo may be just the thing. 2 or 3 students can live comfortably and have access to a kitchen and can study with out going to the library. Condos are being priced competitively around 125-225,000 near VCU.Houses are priced around 225-275,000.

Sellers are more reasonable and buyers have great interest rates and good inventory from which to choose. Builders are giving many upgrades and pricing nicely for a good return in a few years. The market is not going to stay down for long and your students still have to go to school ,as well as other students in the years behind them. So you have built in buyers or rental property for ever.

There is no time like the present to buy a home, second home, or possibly a condo for that College attendee. Ask about crunching the numbers and how they work for buying a condo or townhouse in a city of universities.

Your future graduate can save on room and board if you get the right property. Roommates can help pay the mortgage. Parents or students will often come out less in debt. The condo appreciation can cut the education debt of a student in 4-6 years.(i.e. medical students, law students, or graduate school).

For years foreign students parents have been buying condos for two or three brothers and sisters attending the same university. 600 a month per student is Lot better than 1200-1800 for the price of room and board.

The condos near Virginia Commonwealth University are very industrial,( less worry about damage,concrete counters bamboo wood floors and brick walls. This is what the kids want.They are near school and with in walking distance of the school hangouts. A bike is all they need, save on cars and car insurance.Parking is a real problem at the school and also has a cost. A good old fashion walk is healthier.

Condo pricing numbers work , usually saving the parent at least half of the housing cost of an average student.Apply those savings to education bills. Let other parents save too, and let them help pay your mortgage.

Many Universities only guarantee 1 year in dorms and they still are expensive. So Think about an investment in real estate, to offset you education costs.

Main street have always been less risky than Wall street.

Wanda Fears ABR CRS GRI

Long and Foster Realtors

www.wandafears.com

804 909-2777 ....cell

email Wanda@wandafears.com

How to Sell your Home in Richmond Va. or Anywhere Else

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Fri, 23 May 2008 07:49:31 -0500

What to Know if selling your home in Today's Market!

In today's market sellers must be prepared with information to help market their home to the best potential.

Know where buyers are looking and make you home as marketable as possible. Most of all hire a good Realtor.

Realtors get also 14-16% higher price for a property than a seller can themselves. So its better to high a professional who navigates the market everyday.

Through advertising, loan procurement, inspections, arms length negotiations, qualifying buyers, staging, and general recommendations; agents pay for themselves.

Where else can you hire a professional to work for you for 6 months with no promise of a paycheck and pay for all your advertising up front.

Agents take a big risk, but a seller can help by hiring and listening to that agent.

Also check the an agents designations ( those letters behind their name).

An agent who keeps up with the market and with education is a agent that values his or her career.

Did you know that only 4% of agents in country have a CRS designation. If you find an agent with a CRS, you have found a top producer, and one with basically a masters in real estate.

A GRI is a college degree in real estate, and a ABR is their specialty, specializing in buyers needs.

Here is what buyers want:

• 98% of Internet buyers found the Internet to be the most useful source of information

• 74% of buyers drove by or viewed a home they found online

• 61% of buyers walked through a home first viewed online

• A buyer is nearly 5 times more likely to find the home they purchase on the Internet than in a

newspaper

• A buyer is 24 times more likely to find the home they purchase on the Internet than in a home book

or magazine

• Most important features when searching for homes online:

• 84% photos

• 81% detailed property information

• 60% virtual tours

• 43% interactive maps

• 37% neighborhood information

• 52% of all Internet buyers searched REALTOR.COM^® , more than any other real estate related site.

For a free market snapshot of your home in Richmond and surrounding area go

to www.804property.com

Then call a realtor

Now for things to do to sell:

Outside

Mow and water the lawn.
Trim trees and plant flowers.
Store all bikes, toys and equipment out of sight.
Paint or touch-up the outside of the house.
Put potted flowers in the front.

Inside

Get rid of unnecessary furniture.
Clean closets and clear off counter tops.
Scrub all tile floors.
Clean all carpets.
Clean all windows and mirrors.
Clean stains in all sinks and tubs.

Fix-It

Fix leaky faucets.
Replace missing door or cabinet handles.
Fix or replace broken appliances.
Replace broken tiles in bathroom or kitchen.
Paint if necessary.
Discuss major repairs with your Sales Associate.

Freshen Up

Stop smoking in the house.
Bath pets and clean out litter boxes.
Empty all trash, recycle bins, etc.
Dry-clean drapes and shampoo carpets.
Use baking soda boxes in smell-prone areas.
Place flowers, potpourri or air fresheners around the house.

wanda@wandafears.com or visit my web site at www.wandafears.com or call 804-9092777

Virginia Commonwealth University Condos for the Student Lifestyle 2009

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:55:07 -0500

Homes prices in Richmond Virginia ,especially condos, are good buys right now.

A 4 BR room house can house 4 students or better yet a condo may be just the thing. 2 or 3 students can live comfortably and have access to a kitchen and can study with out going to the library. Condos are being priced competitively around 175-225,000 near VCU;Houses 200-275,000.

Many Universities only guarantee 1 year in dorms and they still are expensive. So Think about an investment in real estate, to offset you education costs.

Main street have always been less risky than Wall street.

Wanda Fears ABR CRS GRI Long and Foster

www.wandafears.com

email wanda@wandafears.com

804 909-2777 cell

Special News report on Richmond Virginia area real estate for March 2009.Top Ten

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:04:53 -0500

Richmond, Virginia is in the top ten for places to have a business or a career. Our city has good job growth,many universities,reasonable real estate, and business costs. We have Museums,Arts,new shopping malls and the builders are still building. We also have great schools. There are rivers and parks that afford many outdoor activities.

This is the best market to by in 35 years. Mortgage rates are still low inventory is good.

The smartest people buy real estate when prices are low and sell when they are high. Take lessons from Trump and Buffet,according to Bernice Ross a national speaker and real estate coach.

Last month we had 9800 homes on the market with sales of 2548.

The avg sales price per area on a home 2200 - 2500 sft. was as follows:In March

54 avg sale for a home was 289,000 100-200000 331 units 56 dom and 98% of asking price

52 255,000 200-300000 354 units 75 dom and 97% of asking price

62 302,000 300-400000 136 units 79 dom and 96% of asking price

64 304,000 400-500000 65 units 75 dom and 96% of asking price

10 373,000 Listings 1-200000 2263 units (All areas)

22 379,000 2-300000 3061 units

32 310,000 3-400000 1713 units

34 395,000 4-500000 896 units

35 334,000

44 323,000 For more info on these areasPlease see website below.

This gives the buyers and sellers some averages to see and compare too. Please contact an agent and buy now.Wanda Fears ABR GRI CRS

Check out http://www.wandafears.com

804-909-2777

wanda@wandafears.com

News From Richmond City Government 113 million to spend and no new taxes.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 22:02:29 -0500

In the coming weeks, the sign pictured above will be popping up all across Richmond. It's all part of Mayor L. Douglas Wilder's "City of the Future" plan, which is generating more than $300 million for community improvements for City neighborhoods, parks, libraries, streets and sidewalks -- without requiring a single increase in taxes.

"This is truly a new day for the City of Richmond, as rarely does any community have the opportunity that now is before us," said the Mayor.

Approximately $113 million of City of the Future funding is already in the pipeline, being directed towards areas that will have the broadest benefit for the majority of Richmond's citizens. From neighborhood to neighborhood, the City of the Future plan will provide numerous improvements across the City.

The funding mechanism for the City of the Future plan is a byproduct of the experience, energy and innovation brought to the City Department of Finance by Harry Black, the City's Chief Financial Officer.

Never before has Richmond created a funding source for its projects without first issuing bonds or taxing its residents. The Mayor's City of the Future plan has changed that.

"We are in a very enviable position, as I am not aware of any other municipality in the United States that has a $300 million reserve with no tax increase," said the Mayor.

Condo investments for Virginia Commwealth University or Medical College of Virginia

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:34:01 -0500

Perhaps you are a Student or real-estate savvy Parent investor.

Consider buying one of the hip new condos for your Student instead or dorms or Apartments .

Much better than paying someone else's mortgage or high dorm fees. Students are not promised dorms after the first year here. It is possible to actually sell at a profit after graduating and reduce your students loan amounts. And by co- signing; Parents are helping you to establish a residency for grad school and a future credit worthiness for your own mortgage.

Prices vary from 175 -300 and with one or two roommates the avg. cost is 650 a person. This is about half of the cost of a dorm and board at school.

If this is something you would like to discuss further; Please feel free to email or call me. I will be glad to crunch some numbers for you, as well as forward some pix and info on the units.

Wanda@wandafears.com

www.wandafears.com

804 909-2777 cell

Wanda Fears, ABR GRI CRS, Long and Foster, Richmond Va.

Satisfaction vs Frustration..Richmond,Virginia;For The 2008 Real Estate Buyer

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:53:41 -0600

Real estate is not a national market it is a regional market, and the Richmond,Virginia regional market is holding its own. Yes we have a higher inventory but over all our prices are up from 263,000 to 277,000 in Nov. and Dec.2007 Our list price to sale price was close to 97% both months. What a great way to end a year when most one of the media kept telling us our markets had tanked.

Our local experience is not that the market is bottoming out , it is adjusting to a great 7 year run. Yes the market is slower but the benefits to buyers and..... sellers.... (most of them are going to be buyers too) are excellent.

With increased inventory we have more selections, and no price war bidding.The buyer can take their time and get all the inspections they need to feel like they are purchasing a solid well maintained home. They can ask for and get repairs.

The buyer can find that great locations near work and shopping; or they can move closer to family. They can get that much needed larger home with the luxury kitchen and extra bath, or the rec-room they have always wanted for the children or grandchildren. The buyer can get good new construction with nice upgrades.

The 2008 buyer can find a good loan with low..... fixed..... interest rates. There are special programs for first time home buyers and teachers, policemen, and other civil servants that may allow them to live in their areas of service. Having a policeman in the neighborhood is always a good thing. Having a teacher next door can only improve a parents understanding of whats happening in their schools.

Lets not over look the benefits of a slower market to the agents. The average client is going to have a much more satisfying experience; there by remembering you in the transaction. This is much better than the "wham bam, thank you" transactions we have had in the past few years.

Real estate agents will feel less stressed and enjoy and get to know their clients better. Their home life will not be so taxed and they have more time to cultivate relationships with organizations, friends and neighbors.

Do not be left behind in 2008. The market will turn again. Buy low and sell high. It works in every type of investment. Homes are long term investments not short term.

Come on America wake up. Many people have financed their children's education, their retirements and increased their net wealth in markets like this.

Go buy a house this year, then call and thank a Realtor."

We have our fingers on the pulse of the market and we can help"

Wanda Fears, ABR GRI CRS wanda@wandafears.com www.wandafears.com

Definition of News in real estate the Market , Real Estate Wanda Fears Richmond, Va.

Wanda Fears, ABR CRS GRI (Long and Foster Real Estate, Richmond Virginia) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 22:11:47 -0600

Talked with someone today that reminded me that the definition of news is the reporting of the abnormal, not the normal. So as I see it the negative news that the real-estate industry has been receiving has been the abnormal behavior of the market not the normal. Normal people are making money on their real-estate investments and normal people are paying their mortgages. Most people are normal thus not newsworthy.

I have worked very hard this year to overcome the negativity and have succeeded in increasing my volume from last year. But I had to constantly read and listen to positive economic speakers. Those people are the ones who could give me the quotes I needed to tell clients everyday, why this is not a bad market. In Virginia, salaries are not going down, unemployment is low, and we have low interest rates still. I believe that markets do follow cycles but have seen nothing in our area to warrant the increase in inventory except negative news.

When the dot com market bombed.. many left and invested in real-estate. Those folks made high percentage gains. But the cycle has not run its course; like every other markets, it is merely doing what all markets do, adjusting.

Is it possible that the news is owned by the stock market and they want investment money back in their market. At least real-estate is tangible and does not rely on the whims of a few executive mistakes. Real- estate is not day trading, but the methodical developing of an investment portfolio. Buy low and sell high,and trade up. And if people keep waiting to buy, the market will rise again with out them; just as many waited to long to sell, knowing that their housing needs were changing.

Eventually this market will see leaps and bounds again. After all what is inflation but too many $ chasing too few goods. Isn't real-estate by its nature a limited commodity. Those folks that are buying now will certainly reap the benefits in the future. Patience.

Wanda Fears

wanda@wandafears.com

804-909-2777