John VanderSyde's (jvandersyde) Blog

 It's been another busy week in Richmond real estate. I love the way this year seems to be moving toward a renewed interest in homes. In spite of some still rather unpleasant housing news, there is activity in the market that supports the fact that people will not sit on the fence forever. This i...

 The second week of the New Year in Richmond, Virginia shows continuing signs of housing market improvements. In general, activity is increasing; calls and appointments are picking up and there better than usual contract activity. Is this a temporary condition, a last ditch effort to take advanta...

 I have made it through the first week of the New Year. After last year it feels like some congratulations are in order? Well, not really, I suppose, because there is a lot of ground to cover in order to determine if the real estate business-plan we have developed for 2010 will be successful. In ...

 As you know, it was recently announced "the government expanded the first-time homebuyer tax credit through April 30th, 2010, and added a new homebuyer tax credit for existing homeowners who are interested in purchasing a new home. With mortgage rates still at historic lows, and plenty of afford...

 WHO KNOWS!   At this point reports regarding extending the government tax credit seem to be changing by the hour. On Monday reports stated it would under no circumstances be extended; by Thursday the media was a-buzz with a potential compromise that will extend the timeframe. The on-again/off-ag...

 Did you know that approximately 85% of people looking for homes use a REALTOR®? In spite of the fact that the majority of home buyers start their search on the internet, they still choose to work with a real estate professional once they are committed to a serious home search.  Realtors don't co...

 Statistics show that the spring months tend to be the best time to buy or sell a home in Richmond. After being cooped up all winter we are ready for change with the arrival of warm weather and fresh foliage. We are fortunate in Richmond to have a robust fall market as well. Once again, due in pa...

 In Richmond, Virginia, should we believe the news recently reporting that the real estate market is finally turning the corner? Notice I didn't say "improving". Nevertheless, media reports have been more forthcoming with increased frequency about where the housing market is these days, and that ...

I got a referral from a friend today. He works the commercial & development side of real estate so I felt comfortable with the lead he was providing. He did mention the caller had some quirks, but who doesn't? In any case, it was a listing opportunity, yea! I'm always grateful when I receive refe...

I knew a man who would advise buying as much home as you can possibly afford. His philosophy being, I believe, that you will grow into your investment. In other words, it will never be more affordable than it is today. Furthermore, as you succeed in life its affordability will continue to improve...