FACTS ABOUT OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM - 06/30/10 12:32 PM
 
Happy Canada Day tomorrow  Oh Canadians, and those that love them. Check out Vanessa Lindsay's post on the history of the Canadian national anthem.  What is Canada Day? .....Check it out.
We have the pleasure of having many friends and clients from Canada...both the French version of Canadian and the English....both delightful!
 
Via Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay):
Did you know that the original music for our Canadian national anthem was composed by Calixa Lavallée, in 1880? Did you also know, that the original French text, was written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier, when translated, went like this?
 O Canada! Our fathers' … (3 comments)

Why do most For Sale By Owners FSBO Fail? - 06/30/10 11:15 AM
 
Can you sell your property yourself? Of course. Is it very challenging? Yes. Also since in most areas over 90% of the homes are sold by agents, the commission is already included in the historic home prices. For example, when I was an investor and was buying from an owner I always knocked the offer price down by what I knew he was not paying in commission. Why should I reward the homeowner when the other homes he is valued against have been boosted over the years because the vast majority have built in commision in the valuations?
Negotiating with … (3 comments)

Homes sold in Hunters Square Reston Va 20191. Reston Town houses for sale - 06/30/10 09:47 AM
Homes Sold in Hunters Square Reston Va 20191
 

 
Sally: I will probably be selling my house in Reston's Hunters Square neighborhood in the months ahead. It is such a convenient and pretty little enclave of town homes that I hate to leave it, but it looks like I will be relocating to Huntsville AL soon.  I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold here the last 18 months? I want to see what is happening with sales trend in the neighborhood.
 
 
 
Also, before you do that could … (0 comments)

Land With Water Frontage In Maine For Sale, Everyone Wants Something With Water. - 06/30/10 08:05 AM
It's over the hump day and a good time to take an electronic vacation to Houlton Maine.
Check out Andy's posts and pictures and enjoy the area he represents.
Via Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY):
Land in Maine is cheap, low cost but when you add a waterfront element, the price goes up depending on the size of the ME lake, river, pond, ocean or whatever the property borders.
Remember that many ME  land properties are near those same lakes, streams, etc and that there are 6000 lakes along in Maine to enjoy.
Any … (2 comments)

Behind in your mortgage payments? Free resources to check out. - 06/29/10 02:39 PM
Behind in your Mortgage Payments? Free Resources to Check out.
 
If you  are behind in your mortgage payments or are anticipating the inability to pay, here are some tips and resources to help you buy time, renogotiate or avoid foreclosure.
Rule #1: CALL THE MORTGAGE COMPANY...do not wait until you are really far behind.
You may qualify for programs that may fix your situation. Yes, talking to your mortgage company is like chewing glass no matter how much their recordings say they love you...but hey that is the ball game and they have the ball....however this game has rules, referees and … (2 comments)

Homes for Sale in Stonehurst, Fairfax VA 22031. All brick town houses just off Lee Highway. - 06/29/10 01:25 PM
Homes for Sale in Stonehurst, Fairfax VA 22031. Brick town houses.

 
 
 
Sally: I may want to sell my town house in Stonehurst in the months ahead. It is an awesome community, but it looks like I will be relocating to Huntsville AL soon.  I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold here the last 12 months? I want to see what is happening with sales trend in the neighborhood.
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what homes are currently for sale in Stonehurst as … (0 comments)

What Makes A Good Buyer's Agent?? - 06/29/10 10:51 AM
 
Barbara-Jo has captured the essence of what a good buyer's agent does. As a buyer,there is no reason to settle for less than thorough representation, from someone who is looking out for YOUR interests not the seller's. This is the approach that PROFESSIONAL agents take.
Do not accept folks who are trying to get away with doing nothing. Good agents stay with you all the way,,,from beginning to end of settlement and beyond. Why wouldn't they? Don't they want your future business and your referrals?
 
Via Barbara-Jo's Beach Blog - Clearwater & Pinellas County Florida Real Estate (Charles Rutenberg … (3 comments)

Homes for Sale in Emerald Chase, Herndon VA 20171. - 06/29/10 10:00 AM
 

Sam: I will probably be selling my house in Emerald Chase in the months ahead. It is an awesome community, but it looks like I will be relocating to Huntsville AL soon.  I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold here the last 18 months? I want to see what is happening with sales trend in the neighborhood.
 
 
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what homes are currently for sale in Emerald Chase as well as those that are under contract?
  
Steve: … (0 comments)

A Lesson On Windows - This Is Instructive! - 06/28/10 07:28 PM
Want to know about windows? Check out this informative post by Jay Markanich of nearby Bristow VA. He is an outstanding writer and makes home inspection issues plain.
If you are not following him,,,you should.
Via Jay Markanich (Jay Markanich Real Estate Inspections, LLC):
Here is everything you need to know about efficient windows.  When you buy a new house, or replace your windows, you want to know about two things -
1.  Do they have high, moderate or low solar gain, and,
2.  What is the U-factor?  From this you can calculate the U-value.
New, efficient windows are designed for different climates.  … (3 comments)

Servicers get Ranked on Short Sales! - 06/28/10 05:34 PM
If you are interested in pursuing a short sale as either a distressed homeowner or a prospective purchaser please check out the following info from Deutsche Bank. If you are trying to for stall foreclosure by doing a short sale, these numbers mean that you will most likely be foreclosed upon before your bank gets around to approving your short sale request. If you are a buyer...well you better be looking for an investment or be on a month to month lease because the likely hood of your getting a home via the short sale method is a crap shoot. People … (4 comments)

Homes for sale in Bradley Farm and Bradley Acres, Herndon 20171 - 06/28/10 03:02 PM
Homes for sale in Bradley Farm and Bradley Acres
Janet: Do I live in Bradley Acres or Bradley Farm. Steve: Well Janet, the sign at the entrance to your community says Bradley Farm. You have a Bradley Farm Home Owners Association and a Bradley Farm Swim team. However, the LEGAL name on your real estate tax record says Bradley Acres and when real estate agents put your home on the internet MLS, you enter as Bradley Acres....soooo you actually live in both. By either name it is a great place to live. Sam: I may want to sell my house in … (0 comments)

What are these bushes with whopping huge blue flowers? - 06/27/10 09:03 AM
These bushes are in bloom everywhere in Northern Virginia at the moment. What are they? Big clusters of bluish purple multi floral type blossoms.
 

 
 

 

… (7 comments)

Homes for Sale in Whisperwood, Reston vA. 20191. June 2010 report - 06/25/10 03:07 PM
Homes for Sale in Whisperwood, Reston VA. 20191. June 2010 report
 

 
Sam: I may want to put my house in Whisperwood on the market in a couple months.  I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold here the last 3 months? I want to see what is happening with sales trend in the neighborhood.
 
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what homes are currently for sale in Whisperwood as well as those that are under contract?
 
 
 
  

 
Steve: … (2 comments)

IF YOU'RE GOING TO CALL YOUSELF A "BUYER'S AGENT" YOU MUST WALK THE WALK AND TALK THE TALK. - 06/25/10 11:44 AM
 
Home buyers READ THIS POST. Real buyer's agents take care of ALL parts of your transaction from beginning to end. Pretend, annoying real estate  "hobbiests" are not what you want. Work with an agent who does as much as possible, not the least amount they can get away with.
If you REALLY want to know what I think on this topic read my comment on the original  excellent post by Lenn Harley.
 
 
Via Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate:
* * * *   WARNING!!  HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK * * * *
IF YOU'RE … (2 comments)

A Great Resource For Home Stagers, Real Estate Agents, Flippers & Remodelers - 06/25/10 07:35 AM
Van Dyke's Restorers.  New hardware for old pieces, missing or compatible replacements for lighting...California stager Michelle shares a great wholesale resource with you. Years ago as a re finisher and restoring hobbyist, I used Van Dykes frequently.
They are a staple resource for the restoration shops in Northern Virginia. Check them out.
Via Michelle Minch Home Staging Los Angeles & Pasadena, CA (Moving Mountains Design Home Staging, Pasadena, CA):
If you are a home stager, real estate agent, remodeler or flipper, and you don't know about Van Dyke's Restorers you should.
Its available as a print catalog or an online catalog here.
… (2 comments)

Homes for Sale in Fox Mill Estates, Herndon, VA. 20171 June 2010 report - 06/24/10 07:03 PM
 Homes for Sale in Fox Mill Estates, Herndon, VA. 20171 June 2010 report
 
Sam: Is it true that the commuter bus lot is right in front of Fox Mill Estates and that it can take me to the West Falls Church Metro faster than if I lived closer, like in Vienna and drove to the Vienna metro, parked and THEN got on the Orange Line?
Steve: Yes it is true.
Sam: Wow, I should consider buying there!
Steve: Yes  Sam, you should.
Tanya: I may want to put my house in Fox Mill Estates on the market in a couple … (0 comments)

I'm Not Buying Your House - I'm Your Listing Agent - 06/24/10 06:21 PM
Ah folks listen to Josette,
Your home will sell slightly above, at or below the MARKET PRICE FOR HOMES OF YOUR TYPE based on condition. Prospective listing agents who give you a big number with no FACTs from ACTUAL SOLD comparables.... are LEADING you on just to get the listing.
When your property doesn't get any quality traffic or offers (oh surprise) we need to drop the price! Do not engage in wishful thinking. What homes have sold for recently is WHAT YOURS will sell for based on condition...not $50k more.
Charlatan agents!
Via Bethesda Real Estate ~ Bethesda Homes for Sale … (0 comments)

Cedar Cove. Contemporary Town Houses in Reston VA. 20191 - 06/24/10 05:25 PM
Cedar Cove. Contemporary Town Houses in Reston VA 20191
 
Sam: I may want to put my house in Cedar Cove in Reston on the market in a couple months.
 I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold here in the last year? I want to see what is happening with sales trend in the neighborhood.
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what homes are currently for sale in Cedar Cove as well as those that are under contract?
  
 
 

 
 
Steve: Happy to … (0 comments)

Selling a house in this market? Ewwwwww are you kidding me? - 06/24/10 12:59 PM
 
Great post from Stanley Barsch. The DC suburban housing inventory has shrunk and prices have stabilized and are headed up. Do not fret over not selling in 2005....really who knew?
Move up buys are great now and Stan's tips on getting your property sold quickly are right on the money.
 
Via Stanley Barsch, REALTOR® 240.882.8512 (Long & Foster Realtors):
Why in the world wouldn't you want to sell in this market?
This is absolutely the most fantastic time to sell and buy a new home!  Lets look at it from a Birdseye view, statistics are out for the month of … (6 comments)

21 Designer Tips that Sell Houses from Voila Design - 06/24/10 11:48 AM
I am writing a post about getting your home ready for market. Well, I can now say a lot less and refer folks to this post! Good stuff here.
Via Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Owner - RE/MAX Access):
1) An easy way to spruce up your home after spring-cleaning is to refresh your accents! By spending around $50 (or more if you like!) you can give your space a whole new look, switching out accent pillows, vases, and accessories. Try having one color scheme for winter, and another for summer!
2) Tape is your friend! For a … (0 comments)

Franklin Farm homes for sale, Oak Hill/Herndon VA 20171. June 24, home sales - 06/24/10 10:46 AM
 
Franklin Farm homes for sale, Oak Hill/Herndon VA 20171. June 24, home sales.




 
 
Thanks for dropping in! Our goal is to keep you up to date on what is happening in the Franklin Farm real estate market and to tell you a bit about this fine neighborhood.
 
 
 
 
 
The Homes for Sale in Franklin Farm report, shows active listings as of 6/24/10,  as well as those currently under contract: Franklin Farm Homes for Sale.

 
 


  The following report shows those single family homes that … (0 comments)

Buying Maine Land, To Build A Second Home, A Vacation Property On For Recreation. - 06/24/10 10:05 AM
Need some Maine vacation land? Follow Maine land man Andy Mooers. You can learn a lot about land, farms, camps, commercial and residences by reading his posts. He provides a great escape from the suburban grind.
Via Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY):
Land in Maine for sale, lots of options, price ranges, locations to consider as you ponder a purchase of ME real estate. My advice is due to the lower, spaced out property of Maine, don't worry about owning hundreds and hundreds of acres thinking you need a lot to feel seclusion, privacy. Alaska … (0 comments)

Homes for Sale in Mosby Woods, Fairfax VA. June 2010 report - 06/23/10 01:14 PM
 
 Homes for Sale in Mosby Woods, Fairfax VA 22033 June 2010 report
 


 
 
Dave: I just came across this post you wrote about Mosby Woods in Fairfax...great photos by the way. I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold in Mosby Woods in the last 6 months? 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what single family homes are currently for sale in Mosby Woods as well as those that are under contract?
 
… (0 comments)

Homes for Sale in Countryside, Sterling, Loudoun County VA . June 2010 - 06/23/10 09:09 AM
Homes for Sale in Countryside, Sterling, Loudoun County VA . June 2010.
 
 
Dave: I just came across this post you wrote about Countryside in Sterling.
I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show homes that have sold in Countryside in the last 3 months? 
 
 
 
 
 
Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what single family homes are currently for sale in Countryside as well as those that are under contract?
 
 

 
 
 
 
Steve: Happy to do so Dave. This report shows single family … (2 comments)

Town Houses for Sale in Reston. Should I Buy or Rent? - 06/22/10 03:24 PM

Town houses for Sale in Reston. Should I Buy or Rent?  
 
Sue: My family is planning a move to the Reston area from Chicago in August so that my husband can take a position at a firm off Route 28 near Dulles. Can you lay out our housing  options for purchasing in the $350k and $400k range? Town houses with at least 3+ beds, 2+ baths?
We may not be there long, so we are thinking about getting a less expensive place if he may be transferred again quickly. If we can be there a number of years … (0 comments)

Penderbrook Homes for sale in Fairfax 22033. June 2010 homes report - 06/22/10 02:53 PM
 
Penderbrook Homes for sale in Fairfax 22033.  June 2010 homes report.
 

 
Click here for the January 2011 Penderbrook report
 
Diane: Are you familiar with homes for sale in Penderbrook Steve?
Our family is relocating to Fairfax County VA and we really want to purchase a home that surrounds a golf course yet is convenient to everything.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Steve: Diane Penderbrook is great...you should definitely read all the info in this  post...but if you just want to know what the real estate value and activity is, follow the links below for the … (2 comments)

Home for Sale in Chantilly Highlands. 2902 MOTHER WELL CT. Coming Soon! - 06/21/10 03:35 PM
Home for Sale in Chantilly Highlands. 2902 MOTHER WELL CT. Coming Soon!
 
 
 
If you are looking for a 4 bedroom 2.5 bath, brick front colonial with 3 finished levels, deck, patio, AND an awesome  screened porch within the Chantilly High School district, your wait is almost over.
 
 
 
Jan and Steve Bachman of RE/MAX Gateway present:
2902 MOTHER WELL CT HERNDON, VA 20171 in Chantilly Highlands.
This beautiful home will be offered for sale in the mid $600k range beginning next week. Watch this space for  a full photo tour of this perfectly maintained and neutrally decorated … (0 comments)

Homes for Sale in Century Oak Fairfax VA . June 2010 community report - 06/21/10 01:04 PM
Homes for Sale in Century Oak Fairfax VA . June 2010 report and Community Info.  

 
Brian: I came across this post you wrote about Century Oak...great photos by the way. I was wondering if you could post a monthly report that will show Century Oak homes for sale as well as sales activity there for the last six months? Also, before you do that could you post a link to show me what homes are for sale in Century Oak as well as those that are under contract?
 
 
 
Steve: Happy to do so Brian. This report shows … (0 comments)

Reston Virginia Schools. The Reston and Fairfax County School System - 06/20/10 09:03 AM
Reston Virginia Schools. The Reston and Fairfax County School System
Schools in Reston Virginia
    Diane: We are planning to move to the Reston Virginia area. What can you tell us about the schools there?
    Steve: Reston is located in Fairfax County Virginia. The resources at your disposal for evaluating your child's education options are extensive and thorough.
This post will give you the addresses of the school web sites that our clients have found most helpful . Click here for the main page for the Fairfax County school system
Diane: How do I know which … (2 comments)

A Father’s Day Tribute to my Dad, Paul T. Weisser - 06/20/10 08:44 AM
 
I am thankful to have had great parents. This day came upon me before I could think of something to write about my Dad.
The shortest tribute I can give and the most meaningful to me is.... I always knew he loved me.
Richard Weisser writes about his Dad below.
 
 
Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:
My father was truly a man of his time. He was a WWII veteran that married after the war, moved to the suburbs, and raised a family of ten kids as the sole provider.
For many of those years, dad worked … (7 comments)

Parc Reston. Condos for Sale in Parc Reston. Close to Reston Town Center! - 06/20/10 08:35 AM
Parc Reston. Condos for Sale in Parc Reston. Close to Reston town Center!

 One and two bedroom condos within walking distance of Reston Town Center
 

Sam: I have been looking for 1 and 2 bedroom condos within walking distance of Reston Town Center. I have looked at several properties inside Reston Town Center's boundaries and they were a bit more than I am prepared to pay. I am looking for the best of both worlds of course.... convenience and affordability.
Parc Reston across Reston Parkway from town center caught my eye, could you post homes for sale in … (0 comments)

Fannie Mae's "Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternative" (HAFA) is Effective 8/1/2010 - 06/20/10 07:19 AM
If you are working short sales....and enduring the frustration, help may be on the way.
What is the toughest part of a short sale? Getting the bank to approve it! In this post Gen Mundt does a great job of recapping the HAFA program, whose goal is to streamline this togh process.
Via Gene Mundt (Chicago Bancorp):
    
    Effective on August 1, 2010, Fannie Mae will be offering a new program "Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA), that is focused on helping those in Pre-Foreclosure status and Short-Sales.
     I see some pre-emptive moves taking place from Fannie Mae within this program, … (0 comments)

What is a short sale? Should I attempt to buy one? - 06/19/10 09:53 AM
 
What is a short sale? Should I attempt to buy one?
Jim: What does it mean when I see the words “short sale” or “3rd party approval required” in the remarks section of the listings you've  sent me?
 
Steve: Jim this is a long post about short sales. A  short sale is the attempt by the home owner to sell the home for less than he owes on his mortgage. Unfortunately, short sales have become a common occurrence in the last 3 years as prices have fallen from their peak in 2005/2006. 
For example: in many areas a home that sold … (6 comments)

Flip That House ! Tips that will sell your investment faster and at a higher price. - 06/19/10 09:34 AM
Want to  be a flipper? .....Buy run down property,  fix it up and try to sell at a profit?
Jan and I help investors in Northern Virginia with this process. It requires experience and patience on your part. This post by the Somers, truly captures what you need to be prepared for if you want to play in this sandbox.
Via Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Owner - RE/MAX Access):
Flip That House ! Philadelphia Style ! Tips that will sell your investment faster and at a higher price. We help a lot of investors Buy, Rehab and … (1 comments)

Tips On Organizing Closets When Selling Your Home - 06/19/10 08:48 AM
 
The challenge of moving combined with keeping your property in showing condition while selling can be overwhelming. Follow Donna's tips to try and stay sane and organized.
 
Via Donna Schoby, Ready, Set, Stage! Fayetteville, AR (Home Stager, Serving Northwest Arkansas):
Tips On Organizing Closets When Selling Your Home
 
•· Empty the entire closet. Decide where each item goes:
1. Keep
2. Donate
3. Throw away
4.  Pack away to be moved
You can pack away seasonal clothing and items not needed while your home is on the market.
 
•· Thoroughly clean the closet:
1.   Vacuum
2.   Clean baseboards
3.   Wipe down shelves
4.   Make sure lighting … (6 comments)

Why Get Pre-approved for a Charlotte NC Home Loan? - 06/19/10 08:24 AM
Northern Virginia home buyers. The following post is perfectly suited for our environment as well. Debe's reasoning should be the blue print for your thought process.
Via Debe Maxwell, CRS - Charlotte NC MLS - Charlotte NC Neighborhoods (Helen Adams Realty):
Why Get Pre-approved for a Charlotte NC Home Loan? There are a few things you can do to make the process of buying a new Charlotte NC home easier and faster.  Getting pre-approved for financing is one of them.  Here are four advantages of loan pre-approval:
REALTORS® Take You Seriously
When you walk into an agent’s office or meet an agent … (0 comments)

Chantilly Highlands Homes for Sale. June 17, 2010 Home Sales Report - 06/17/10 02:29 PM
 
 
Chantilly Highlands Homes for Sale, Herndon/Oak Hill VA 20171. June 17, 2010 Home Sales Report  
Sam: From everything I have heard Chantilly Highlands is a place I should consider when buying my next home.. Can you tell me more about it?
If you would please post those Chantilly Highlands homes that are currently on the market as well as those under contract?
Just so I can track values, could you also report on those Chantilly Highlands Homes that  have SOLD in the last three months?
 
Steve: Happy to do Sam. Chantilly Highlands is a community of single … (0 comments)

Soils In Maine, The Land, ME Farm You Buy Is All The Same Right? - 06/17/10 10:30 AM
Time for your weekly Maine Vacation with Andrew Mooer. If you are a real estate agent in the suburbs...check this out. Selling in the country is a whole 'nother ballgame. Andrew sells land, homes, farms, cabins, stores etc.
Via Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY):
Like people soils are different and Maine farms have lots of soil profiles to consider, study when buying, purchasing ME land, acreage. On first glance some ME land with cat tails, reeds, dead trees and standing water are easy to detect.
Like a two year old strapped in to a back … (0 comments)

Can you show me homes in Penderbrook? And how do those lock boxes work? - 06/16/10 04:29 PM
Can you show me homes in Penderbrook, Fairfax?  Oh and and how do those lock boxes work?

This is a SentriLock Realtor’s lock box
 
How Do Realtors Get INTO HOUSES?
(How stuff works in Realtorland)
Tammy: My husband and I have been driving around  Penderbrook trying to get a feel for the neighborhood for our future move. We can see all kinds of lock boxes hanging on the doors of the homes for sale and were wondering how they work. Can you tell me?
Steve Bachman: There are basically two types of lock boxes…combination and electronic that are … (2 comments)

How long will it take to sell my house? - 06/16/10 09:16 AM
How Long will it Take to Sell My House? 
 

 
 
Dave: How long will it take to sell my house? Also, as a prospective home seller, what is the significance of the length of time my property is on the market?
 
 
 
  Steve: Dave, that is THE QUESTION isn't it? There are three main factors that determine the speed of sale:the price, the condition, and the location of your property. This blog post just skirts around those  issues :-) . It is mostly about the interplay that "Days on Market" has with pricing and your net … (39 comments)

Can I get Reupholstery work done near Herndon or Reston? Draperies too. - 06/16/10 07:30 AM
Reupholstery and Drapery Work Room near Reston and Herndon  Reupholstery and window treatments in Reston and Herndon
 
 
John: I need to get a sofa recovered and my draperies were installed in 1989. Do you know any good place near Reston and Herndon that can do reupholstery and custom window treatments? Steve: John, you should check out  The Upholstery Shop in downtown Herndon. It is located on Elden street in the heart of old town  across the street from the Ice House restaurant and next to Jimmy's Old Town Tavern.
They have a huge fabric selection in stock at great … (0 comments)

Franklin Glen, Fairfax VA 22033. Franklin Glen Community tour w/music - 06/15/10 09:24 PM
Franklin Glen Fairfax, VA  Community Tour
Sam: I've heard that Franklin Glen is a super convenient yet aesthetic place to live. Could you post some pictures of the types of homes that are available, photos of the amenities like pool, playground and shopping? Oh and what are the schools that serve Franklin Glen and are the nearby?
 
Steve: Sam, no long bus rides here, Franklin Glen is served by close by  Lees Corner Elementary, Franklin Middle and Chantilly High schools.
 
The neighborhood tour of Franklin Glen homes and amenities is below. I shot most photos in High Def. so … (0 comments)

Homes for sale in Chantilly Highlands. Single family homes in 20171 - 06/15/10 11:34 AM

Looking for a single family home for sale in Chantilly Highands? Visit the neighborhood tour of this community within the Chantilly High School pyramid and the Oak Hill/Herndon 20171 zip code.
Sam: I have heard from friends, that Chantilly Highlands is a great neighborhood with a local elementary school right in it and all the amenities I need within walking or bike riding distance.
 
 
 

Can you tell me more abut it? My wife and I want to sell our town house in Arlington and get a single family home out near where I work in Herndon. 
… (4 comments)

Homes for Sale in Franklin Glen 22033. Homes in Chantilly High School district. - 06/14/10 04:24 PM
Homes for Sale in Franklin Glen, Fairfax VA. Proudly served by the Chantilly High School pyramid. Franklin Glen Community information and June 2010 sales report.
 
If you would like to view the current Homes for Sale in Franklin Glen report, without looking at the nice pictures and lyrical verbage below click:

Homes for Sale in Franklin Glen.
This report shows active listings as of 6/14/10.
 
To see the homes that have sold in Franklin Glen since the beginning of the year click Franklin Glen Home Sales.
 
Yes it is a pdf file, but it will show you the … (0 comments)

Reston single family homes for sale in zip code 20191. 3+ bedrooms 2+ baths - 06/14/10 09:30 AM
 Homes in Reston's 20191 for sale. 31 as of this morning. Quick link to view 4 inches down! Cara: I have started looking online for single family homes for sale in Reston's 20191 zip code. They must have at east 3 bedrooms and 2 or more full baths. I must say that I am sorely disappointed with the old data I have come across on the main public home search programs... 4 of the 5 homes that I wanted more info. on turned out to have been sold or put under contract days (sometimes weeks) ago. What do you recommend I … (2 comments)

Swimming for Special Needs Children: Fairfax County Programs - 06/11/10 12:11 PM
 
 

 
Diane: Do you think swimming or aquatic therapy is appropriate for my special needs kid?
Steve: Absolutely, positively without equivocation. The swimming community is the most supportive group of families we have come across in the 17 years that we have been involved with children's sports in Fairfax County. The Special needs volunteers are as you can imagine...outstanding human beings.
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
Your child does not need to be involved in competitive Special Olympics programs to physically and mentally benefit from aquatic training. For some reason, water has a special power, … (5 comments)

And we wonder why medical costs have gone up...Pt 2 - 06/11/10 12:01 PM
If you like to fish, are tired of city livin', wonder what life in the Minnesota countryside is like or just need a humorous interlude...visit William.
,
Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):
This is the last of these that I have. I have seen many others, but these were the high lights.  Enjoy and have a great weekend.
Little Johnny got into more than he could handle!
He could pant the ceiling if he only had one more pail.
  Can we say bungee cord.  I just hope this guy can bounce real good.
 I wonder what will … (6 comments)

Madison Alabama Homes For Sale Olde Cobblestone 35756 - 06/11/10 11:56 AM
If you need someone to refer to in Huntsville or Madison Alabama, check out Nick Pappas. If you are from the north, he speaks that as well..... being from Chicago.
Via Nick Pappas - Madison and Huntsville Alabama (Associate Broker e-Pro REMAX MADISON, ALABAMA):
Madison Alabama Homes For Sale Olde Cobblestone 35756

Home For Sale in Madison Alabama Olde cobblestone.  MLS#309189    $304,900  
For more information about this home for sale or other available homes please contact Nick at 256 230-5933 or try my Website.

 

In Olde Cobblestone subdivision of Madison Alabama this Home for sale boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and a half … (3 comments)

My Suggestions For a New Real Estate Oath - 06/11/10 11:54 AM
If you do not keep your eye on J.Philip Faranda...you are missing out. He uses words like "non sequitor" which is very cool .....which I am going to use as soon as I possibly can.
He also writes lyrical prose when the muse descends which is pretty much a daily occurrence for him.
Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
Jonathan Washburn has written a very good oath for licensees to aspire to, and, being the mischievous imp that I am, I have a few modest suggestions of my own to "raise the bar." 
I will limit my voice mail greeting to 20 seconds … (7 comments)

When You Receive Information, Share It Forward To Others...It Strengthens Our Profession - 06/11/10 11:08 AM
If you do not follow Barbara Todaro..you should. She is organized, yet creative and she is happy to share what works for her. We are trying to improve our post card mailing agenda by looking at what she does. Check it out. Active Rain gives you the opportunity to learn from folks the world over.
Via Barbara Todaro (RE/MAX Executive Realty in Franklin, Ma):
We've all heard the old adage "what goes around, comes around" but how many of us really live by that saying.  The sales industry has a reputation of being a private, keep it to yourself, and don't share that … (4 comments)

Sometimes Your Maine Real Estate Video Has A Dog, Cow, Horse Leading The Frame Loops, The Editing. - 06/11/10 10:20 AM
Time to take a Maine vacation with the state's number one ambassador Andy Mooers. If you do not follow Andrew you should...he is creative, enthusiastic, informed, professional and fun. He has been using video to capture his beautiful state's magnificence for years.
Via Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY):
If you are a Maine real estate broker using real live full sensory video to market your properties, often animals help the movie, move. Animals in Maine can lead the progression. The shots kept. The ones on the editing floor revolve around a live character, a dog … (2 comments)

Town houses for sale near the Dunn Loring Metro. Homes on the Orange Line - 06/11/10 09:43 AM
I am interested in purchasing a town house on the Orange Line near the Dunn Loring Metro. What's out there? Heard of Dunn Loring Village?
 

Diane: I realize that much of this post discusses Vienna VA, but if you could just post the Active Homes for Sale in Dunn Loring Village as well as report on all the homes that have sold there in the last three months I would appreciate it.
 
 
 
 
 
Steve: Happy to be of service Diane click Homes for Sale in Dunn Loring Village. Once there, click the mls # to … (0 comments)

If It Walks Like A Duck... (The MLS Has Gone Quackers) - 06/11/10 08:39 AM
Ha :-) Always check your work! Spell check does not catch wording that you do not want associated with the thorough, detailed, professional image you are trying to project.
Via Gwen Banta (Sotheby's International Realty):
Usually I have to skip a week to gather enough material for my MLS blooper review, but this past week was especially rife with colorful errors and head-scratching misspellings.
I even caught a few in the L.A. Times and Homes and Land Magazine. It appears that some agents were dozing at their keyboards...or doing tequila shooters - you decide.
Here are my Picks of the Week:
Where's … (4 comments)

10 Home Staging Tips to Make Your Next Listing Look like a Model Home - 06/11/10 08:20 AM
 
Attention potential home sellers! Julea gives outstanding advice on how to prep and show your house. Her recommendations are affordable and she is not talking about the need to renovate in order to sell. Good stuff!
 
Via Julea Joseph, Interior Stylist (Reinventing Space):
What is it about Model homes that make them so appealing?  Is it the freshness of all new; is it the sassy paint colors, the perfectly placed furniture, art and accessories or the beautiful groomed backyard that makes you want to plop right down on that comfy club chair, or light the grill on the patio?  Well.... … (2 comments)

Don't let your kid grow up to swim like a sparrow that fell in syrup. - 06/09/10 06:46 PM
Don't fail your children. Be responsible. Make sure they can swim really cool looking. Tom: I have never been to a swim team practice and neither has my boy Marvin. What can I expect when he starts swimming with the Chantilly Highlands Dolphins? Steve the Answerman: First thing Tom, always have Marvin in his suit when he leaves the house whether you are going to a meet or practice. This will save you a lot of trouble. Nothing is more irritating than getting to an away meet and finding no suit in the swim bag. We once went to meet at … (4 comments)

Over My Head at the Loudoun County Courthouse Foreclosure Auctions - 06/08/10 02:57 PM
I was sitting on a bench at 8:30 this morning in front of the Loudoun County Courthouse in Leesburg Virginia.....waiting for the 9 am scheduled trustees sale of foreclosed property.

 
 
 
I took my camera with me because it is the prettiest courthouse setting of  the three we frequent. The posted photos are the views over my my head on this perfect spring morning.
( the turkey buzzard I photographed yesterday ...while previewing property we planned to bid on...kind of apropos huh?)
 
 
 

 
 
15 properties were on the docket...the bank took back 11 with … (8 comments)

Bank Owned Foreclosure properties for sale in Ashburn and Leesburg VA. REOs - 06/03/10 09:08 PM
Bank Owned Foreclosure properties for sale in Ashburn and Leesburg VA. REOs
 
 
 
 
 
If you have heard that bank owned foreclosed propeties are all disgusting handyman specials, check out some of these outstanding REOs (or Bank Owned Foreclosed properties) in Ashburn and Leesburg on the big purplelink an inch or so down.
Many of the homes in Ashburn and in Leesburg's newer communities on both sides of route 7 east of town were purchased at the height of the market in 2004-2006.
 
 
Values in these neighborhoods have fallen back as much as $300k … (0 comments)

Reston's great escape...without leaving town. The Walker Nature Center - 06/03/10 08:13 PM
Want a mid week escape in Reston? How about a few hours of doing something different with your kids? Check out the Walker Nature Center right on Glade Drive in Reston News, activities and updates to the following information can be found at Reston's Walker Nature Center. Walker Nature Education Center 11450 Glade Drive Reston, VA (703) 476-9689
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Hours of Operation:
Mon. & Wed. - Fridays 9 am - 5 pm Saturdays 10 am - 1 pm Sundays 1 pm - 4pm CLOSED to public on Tuesdays CLOSED to public on RA Holidays 
… (3 comments)

Colorado Springs: Government Tax Credit Program Extended for our Armed Forces Members - 06/03/10 06:49 PM
If you are moving from Northern Virginia to Colorado Springs, you will need a knowledgeable realtor to help you save time, money and a lot of headaches. Contact Nancy Murray before you go...she will be happy to be of service. If you are active duty military or who have friends who are, check out Nancy's blog post below about the Home Buyer's tax credit being extended for overseas military on extended duty.
Via Murray Knoll Partners (Keller Williams Clients Choice, Colorado Springs, CO):
Colorado Springs: Government Tax Credit Program Extended for our Armed Forces Members  Armed Forces members who are serving outside the … (0 comments)

Are you a buyer concerned with the slowness of your short sale purchase? - 06/03/10 06:38 PM
Thinking about buying a short sale in Northern Virginia? You will need great patience!
The blog post that follows is outstanding advice for those who enter into a short sale scenario. If the seller's short sale package is not complete, or one of the other issues arises that is mentioned...it is likely that you will not know nor be informed as to the status of your offer...banks can take months to even acknowledge the receipt of a short sale offer. If you need to purchase a property within a specific time period, short sales may not be the best way to … (3 comments)

Home sales in Greenbriar Fairfax, 22033 - 06/03/10 10:21 AM
Jill: Could you post a report showing what  homes have sold for in the Greenbriar neighborhood of Fairfax VA in the last three months? I want to see what kind of prices the properties are bringing. Oh, and show those properties that are under contract too. Steve: Jill,  we have posted them here: Homes for Sale In Greenbriar Fairfax VA Just click and you will be taken to a report that is known as a CMA or Competitive Market Analysis.This report shows in detail the homes that have sold in Greenbriar since March 1 of this year as well as those that are … (0 comments)

HUD foreclosed homes for sale In Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties - 06/02/10 10:18 AM
Interested in purchasing a foreclosed property in Fairfax, Prince William or Loudoun counties?
 One neglected purchase method is  bidding on homes that are owned by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Both investors and folks who want to live in the property are eligible to bid.
The best resource for how the process works is HUD itself. How to Buy Forclosed Property from HUD If you would like more information on this process or would like to discuss visiting some of these homes, please drop us a line. Our brokerage RE/MAX Gateway is a HUD registered and approved … (2 comments)

Bank Owned Foreclosure properties for sale in Herndon, Reston, Chantilly and Herndon VA. REOs - 06/01/10 10:09 AM
Foreclosured properties for sale in Herndon, Reston, Chantilly and Herndon VA. Bank owned REOs. We will be blogging about "things to consider" when purchasing a bank owner foreclosed property in the near future and attaching it to this planned weekly report. For now, to view those REOs or Bank Owned Foreclosed properties in Herndon, Reston, Sterling and Chantilly click: Fairfax and Loudoun County Foreclosures for Sale
(Once in the link, click on the mls # to expand the listing. Click on the camera or movie reel icon to see any pictures there might be. For more info. or to visit one … (2 comments)

Northern Virginia Homes for Sale: May 31 2010 housing inventory snapshot - 06/01/10 09:35 AM

 
 
 
 
Relocating to the  to the Northern Virginia area? The table below shows you what you can expect to find as far as average and median home prices for the various counties surrounding Washington DC. The closer the county is to the job centers or the nation's capitol, the higher the price.
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
The days on market reflects the average time it takes to get a home in that county's price bracket under contract. Properly priced homes in good condition in the inner counties are selling much faster than the … (0 comments)

 
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Steve and Jan Bachman--Northern Virginia Realtors

Herndon, VA

More about me…

RE/MAX Gateway, Reston, Herndon, Ashburn, Sterling, Fairfax

Address: 4090-B Lafayette Center Drive, Chantilly, VA, 20151

Office Phone: (703) 652-5782

Cell Phone: (703) 943-6592

Email Me

Find out what homes are for sale in Northern Virginia, what the real estate market is like and discover more about neighborhoods in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. You can also find us on Google + where we post photographs of Northern VA and the experience of living here. https://plus.google.com/105077527117694452632/about


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