Real estate seems to have been a fickle friend to some of us recently. At one time it was something you could rely on to increase your bottom line and secure your future. Then, suddenly, it wasn’t! Well guess what – NOW is the time to reconsider how you feel about real property as an investment opportunity or as a new home.
You have already heard the advice of real estate professionals, the media and market prognosticators outlining all the signs of the “positive housing market”. Some will feel it is a desperate push to revitalize home sales and get you in before it really bottoms out. Others will realize we don’t know where the bottom is until it’s passed. The signs are here, and the market is moving again. Stand on the side line or get into the game, it’s your choice; but if you are considering a move, what are you waiting for?
You can take advantage of affordable prices resulting from a down market, or use unprecedented incentives being offered in new construction to get the deal of a lifetime. Creative ideas such as buyer-protection warranties provide additional confidence to act now. Besides, historically low interest rates, government programs and first time buyer tax credits will end before you know it. Just remember, as someone once said, “Opportunities are never lost; someone will always take the one you miss!” Ask your qualified real estate professional for more information.
John VanderSyde is an Associate Broker with Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company, and is also a Licensed Architect. You can learn more about John and Ann by visiting www.InSydeHomes.com or by calling (804) 282-7300
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Long & Foster Press Release - "Buy Confident" Program
April 9, 2009
BUY CONFIDENT WITH LONG & FOSTER®Announcing Long & Foster’s Job Loss Protection Program
Chantilly, VA — Long & Foster® Real Estate, Inc., the largest privately held residential real estate company in the U.S., announced today the implementation of a job loss protection program for homebuyers as an extension of their ongoing Buy Confident™ campaign.
“Although this is a great time to buy residential real estate for many, there’s still a lot to consider,” advises Mary K. Weddle, executive vice president of The Long & Foster® Companies, “In this uncertain market, be sure to have a good agent who can help you to fully assess your situation. Long & Foster is proud to be one of the first real estate companies to offer job loss protection to help buyers and sellers make real estate decisions with a greater degree of confidence.”
Many potential homebuyers are concerned about what might happen if they were to lose their job. Long & Foster’s new Job Loss Protection program, part of the service called HELP (Homeowner Education and Loan Protection) from the Rainy Day Foundation, will help to ease the worry. It’s paid for by the seller.
The Job Loss Protection portion of HELP will assist buyers who purchase a Long & Foster listing covered by Job Loss Protection in the event of an involuntary job loss within the first 24 months of the loan. The policy covers mortgage payments up to $1,800 per month for up to 6 months. HELP also offers six months of phone counseling and monthly educational e-newsletters. Job Loss Protection is an important and timely service that gives sellers a way to differentiate their property and give buyers the confidence to purchase.
The coverage is underwritten by Virginia Surety Company, Inc. that has an A-Excellent ranking by A.M. Best. Please see a Long & Foster agent for additional details. To locate an agent, visit longandfoster.com.
Long & Foster® Real Estate, Inc. is the largest privately held residential real estate company in the United States. The company is part of The Long & Foster® Companies, which also includes Prosperity Mortgage® Company; Long & Foster Insurance Agency, Inc.; and Long & Foster Settlement Services. Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. represents more than 13,000 agents in seven Mid-Atlantic states, plus the District of Columbia. The company sold more than $26.4 billion worth of homes and 76,714 properties in 2008. The Long & Foster Companies 2008 combined sales for the year were in excess of $48.9 billion.
John VanderSyde is an Associate Broker with Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
BUY CONFIDENT WITH LONG & FOSTER®Announcing Long & Foster’s Job Loss Protection Program
Chantilly, VA — Long & Foster® Real Estate, Inc., the largest privately held residential real estate company in the U.S., announced today the implementation of a job loss protection program for homebuyers as an extension of their ongoing Buy Confident™ campaign.
“Although this is a great time to buy residential real estate for many, there’s still a lot to consider,” advises Mary K. Weddle, executive vice president of The Long & Foster® Companies, “In this uncertain market, be sure to have a good agent who can help you to fully assess your situation. Long & Foster is proud to be one of the first real estate companies to offer job loss protection to help buyers and sellers make real estate decisions with a greater degree of confidence.”
Many potential homebuyers are concerned about what might happen if they were to lose their job. Long & Foster’s new Job Loss Protection program, part of the service called HELP (Homeowner Education and Loan Protection) from the Rainy Day Foundation, will help to ease the worry. It’s paid for by the seller.
The Job Loss Protection portion of HELP will assist buyers who purchase a Long & Foster listing covered by Job Loss Protection in the event of an involuntary job loss within the first 24 months of the loan. The policy covers mortgage payments up to $1,800 per month for up to 6 months. HELP also offers six months of phone counseling and monthly educational e-newsletters. Job Loss Protection is an important and timely service that gives sellers a way to differentiate their property and give buyers the confidence to purchase.
The coverage is underwritten by Virginia Surety Company, Inc. that has an A-Excellent ranking by A.M. Best. Please see a Long & Foster agent for additional details. To locate an agent, visit longandfoster.com.
Long & Foster® Real Estate, Inc. is the largest privately held residential real estate company in the United States. The company is part of The Long & Foster® Companies, which also includes Prosperity Mortgage® Company; Long & Foster Insurance Agency, Inc.; and Long & Foster Settlement Services. Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. represents more than 13,000 agents in seven Mid-Atlantic states, plus the District of Columbia. The company sold more than $26.4 billion worth of homes and 76,714 properties in 2008. The Long & Foster Companies 2008 combined sales for the year were in excess of $48.9 billion.
John VanderSyde is an Associate Broker with Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
First Impressions – Your House & Your Yard
In real estate, like most things in life, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. Remember that first date in high school? Or perhaps like me you’d just as soon forget about it! Well, trust me; a lot of folks out there feel the same way about YOUR house the moment they drive up to it. Unlike that first date, however, they will simply turn around and get the heck out of there as quickly as possible. If that happens, there will be NO second date!
It may be true if you put lipstick on a pig, it’s still just a pig. But I believe a house is a little different – for the most part anyway. It seems to me (as my managing broker likes to say) that “for every doghouse there is a dog”, but some lipstick goes a long way toward getting them to sniff around it, especially if you want to sell quickly for the highest and best price.
I constantly tell sellers that, according to statistics, the greatest “bang for your buck” is in landscaping and the yard. Every year, house trends show the money you put into your yard has the greatest dollar for dollar return on your investment. The first thing you need to do is get the purchaser inside. If they see a manicured yard and a well maintained exterior, they have a tendency to be more forgiving with the interior space that may not meet all their needs.
So, start by getting someone involved in sprucing up the yard. There are a ton of eager landscapers and yard-upkeep companies that can come in and bang out some improvements in no time at all. Have a plan and commit to making it shine; really make a difference. Get a couple of bids, and you’ll be surprised how reasonable it is. Not to mention the fact that you don’t have to lift a finger.
I know men & women who like to putter in the yard, but this in not the time. Get professional assistance that will make a quick and immediate difference in your home’s curb appeal. You won’t regret coming home after a day at the office to find a finished product. Your house will look markedly different, and will appeal more to purchasers looking at other homes that haven’t been touched.
You’ve heard it a million times, but this is the first step to making a strong “first impression” about your property. Otherwise, forget about a second date!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
It may be true if you put lipstick on a pig, it’s still just a pig. But I believe a house is a little different – for the most part anyway. It seems to me (as my managing broker likes to say) that “for every doghouse there is a dog”, but some lipstick goes a long way toward getting them to sniff around it, especially if you want to sell quickly for the highest and best price.
I constantly tell sellers that, according to statistics, the greatest “bang for your buck” is in landscaping and the yard. Every year, house trends show the money you put into your yard has the greatest dollar for dollar return on your investment. The first thing you need to do is get the purchaser inside. If they see a manicured yard and a well maintained exterior, they have a tendency to be more forgiving with the interior space that may not meet all their needs.
So, start by getting someone involved in sprucing up the yard. There are a ton of eager landscapers and yard-upkeep companies that can come in and bang out some improvements in no time at all. Have a plan and commit to making it shine; really make a difference. Get a couple of bids, and you’ll be surprised how reasonable it is. Not to mention the fact that you don’t have to lift a finger.
I know men & women who like to putter in the yard, but this in not the time. Get professional assistance that will make a quick and immediate difference in your home’s curb appeal. You won’t regret coming home after a day at the office to find a finished product. Your house will look markedly different, and will appeal more to purchasers looking at other homes that haven’t been touched.
You’ve heard it a million times, but this is the first step to making a strong “first impression” about your property. Otherwise, forget about a second date!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Inviting Signs of Hospitality
The following came from a real estate agent friend of mine. I’m not sure of the actual source, but I like it enough to want to share it.
Often called the Colonial symbol of hospitality, the pineapple was once considered the most exotic of all tropical fruits that a seafaring captain could bring back home from his voyage to the islands of the West Indies. It is said that in New England a returning mariner would spear a pineapple on his front gate, thus announcing to friends and neighbors his return from the sea, and that all were welcomed to visit. Often friends would be invited over to sample a pineapple treat, which was seen as the warmest of welcomes. As a result, the pineapple has been an enduring symbol of hospitality ever since this tradition was established.
Why not share this friendly tale the next time you visit a neighbor with a brass pineapple door-knocker and see what results!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Often called the Colonial symbol of hospitality, the pineapple was once considered the most exotic of all tropical fruits that a seafaring captain could bring back home from his voyage to the islands of the West Indies. It is said that in New England a returning mariner would spear a pineapple on his front gate, thus announcing to friends and neighbors his return from the sea, and that all were welcomed to visit. Often friends would be invited over to sample a pineapple treat, which was seen as the warmest of welcomes. As a result, the pineapple has been an enduring symbol of hospitality ever since this tradition was established.
Why not share this friendly tale the next time you visit a neighbor with a brass pineapple door-knocker and see what results!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Minimal Tool Box
Old-hand homeowners assemble tool kits by adding items over the course of time, purchasing tools as needed for particular projects. Over a period of years, before you know it, the origin of a workshop has developed.
Novice homeowners, though, need a place to start. The price and quality range for tools is huge. If you intend to do only a little yourself, spend a little. If you plan to do more, spend more. Not all home owners are created equal, so be realistic in the jobs you choose to tackle. Permits may be necessary, and it’s a good idea to check with a professional contractor and the local authorities when considering larger jobs.
I love my tools and am particular about what I choose to buy. I am also realistic when it comes to price. I have found that tools in the mid-to upper price range are better than satisfactory for most work I do. Good quality tools will last a lifetime, and you don’t want to skimp. Always invest in fewer, better tools if you’re on a budget. Nevertheless, here’s the least you should have for handling minor household tasks.
CLAW HAMMER & NAILS: at least 16 oz hammer and a basic assortment of nails from the hardware store will tackle most projects. A 22 oz framing hammer is not what you need to get started, but it sure feels good in your hand.
PLIERS & WRENCH: slip-joint and an adjustable will do just fine; the more versatile they are the better off you will be. A moderate size pipe wrench may eventually find its way into your tool box as well.
SCREW DRIVERS: slot (flat-head) & Phillips-head in various sizes, but you can start with just two. Utility sets for unique fasteners may be necessary, but you can wait until the project requiring them comes along. Also see Drills below.
DRILL(s): you’ll wonder how you ever survived without and electric drill. This is one of the most versatile tools you can get, so I recommend investing on a decent hand held. I like the ones with rechargeable batteries, but if you don’t use it enough a good electric will be your best bet. I would also invest in a small set of drill bits as well as flat and Phillips-head drivers.
SAW(s): buy as you go depending on the job you’re tackling – there are tons. Get something for yard work & pruning. Also get a versatile handsaw for small interior jobs. If you do any kind of trim work I would suggest purchasing a good miter-saw; this will tackle most projects with precision. A sill-saw is essential for bigger projects, and a jig-saw for smaller and more delicate tasks.
MISCELLANEOUS ESSENTIALS: A 1” wide measuring tape, step ladder, extension cords, two foot level, bolts & anchors, scissors, utility knife, putty knife, string, tape and anything else that might come in handy
If you just purchased a home, or if you are looking for a great first-time homeowner gift, there are some fairly good utility kits available from your favorite hardware store. They usually include all the essentials. If you know someone who is particular, a gift certificate works nicely too; but remember, I’ve known folks to loose the entire day looking at tools & equipment, aimlessly wondering the isles of the hardware store. Have a plan when you go and stick to it. Enjoy!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Novice homeowners, though, need a place to start. The price and quality range for tools is huge. If you intend to do only a little yourself, spend a little. If you plan to do more, spend more. Not all home owners are created equal, so be realistic in the jobs you choose to tackle. Permits may be necessary, and it’s a good idea to check with a professional contractor and the local authorities when considering larger jobs.
I love my tools and am particular about what I choose to buy. I am also realistic when it comes to price. I have found that tools in the mid-to upper price range are better than satisfactory for most work I do. Good quality tools will last a lifetime, and you don’t want to skimp. Always invest in fewer, better tools if you’re on a budget. Nevertheless, here’s the least you should have for handling minor household tasks.
CLAW HAMMER & NAILS: at least 16 oz hammer and a basic assortment of nails from the hardware store will tackle most projects. A 22 oz framing hammer is not what you need to get started, but it sure feels good in your hand.
PLIERS & WRENCH: slip-joint and an adjustable will do just fine; the more versatile they are the better off you will be. A moderate size pipe wrench may eventually find its way into your tool box as well.
SCREW DRIVERS: slot (flat-head) & Phillips-head in various sizes, but you can start with just two. Utility sets for unique fasteners may be necessary, but you can wait until the project requiring them comes along. Also see Drills below.
DRILL(s): you’ll wonder how you ever survived without and electric drill. This is one of the most versatile tools you can get, so I recommend investing on a decent hand held. I like the ones with rechargeable batteries, but if you don’t use it enough a good electric will be your best bet. I would also invest in a small set of drill bits as well as flat and Phillips-head drivers.
SAW(s): buy as you go depending on the job you’re tackling – there are tons. Get something for yard work & pruning. Also get a versatile handsaw for small interior jobs. If you do any kind of trim work I would suggest purchasing a good miter-saw; this will tackle most projects with precision. A sill-saw is essential for bigger projects, and a jig-saw for smaller and more delicate tasks.
MISCELLANEOUS ESSENTIALS: A 1” wide measuring tape, step ladder, extension cords, two foot level, bolts & anchors, scissors, utility knife, putty knife, string, tape and anything else that might come in handy
If you just purchased a home, or if you are looking for a great first-time homeowner gift, there are some fairly good utility kits available from your favorite hardware store. They usually include all the essentials. If you know someone who is particular, a gift certificate works nicely too; but remember, I’ve known folks to loose the entire day looking at tools & equipment, aimlessly wondering the isles of the hardware store. Have a plan when you go and stick to it. Enjoy!
For more insight, information and any questions on this and other important issues, please contact your most valued real estate professional, we are here to serve you!
Sources: John VanderSyde, Architect & Associate Broker, Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company
Monday, April 6, 2009
Richmond's Stonewall Court Neighborhood
Stonewall Court – A Brief History
At the declaration of World War II in 1941, the nation was put on alert for foreign invasion. Over the entire country, on the East and West Coasts, groups were formed for the safety and protection of people in all communities. Men and women were selected from each neighborhood to form a Civil Defense Patrol.
In the Court, it was decided a meeting place had to be found where the workers could hold gatherings and to store equipment. One of my former listings, the dwelling known as 345 Lexington Road, was chosen because it had a basement, and was one of the few places that could be entered from the outside without going through the house.
Shelves and racks were installed in the basement to hold the steel helmets, special flashlights, stretchers, splints, and other first-aid equipment needed in emergencies. Thick black shades covered all the windows and doors of homes on the Court.
When Sirens wailed in the night, Wardens reported immediately to pick up their helmets and lights. Streets were patrolled to insure that no light was visible from any building and to verify that everyone was off the street.
The wardens stayed at their posts until the “all clear” signal was given. Then they returned to headquarters to replace the equipment (and perhaps socialize).
World War II ended with a community drawn closely together by a common interest. It was decided by the group that they should remain together, meeting in the same place, but calling themselves the Stonewall Court Civic Association.
The purpose of the new association was to further the community interest in civic affairs and to encourage a friendly relationship between all families.
The people who have come to live in the Court continue to picked up the torch by carrying on the ideals and sprit of the Air Raid Wardens of 1941. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a close, caring community; it is one of many in the area I am happy to represent!
[Information provided through the Stonewall Court Civic Association]
At the declaration of World War II in 1941, the nation was put on alert for foreign invasion. Over the entire country, on the East and West Coasts, groups were formed for the safety and protection of people in all communities. Men and women were selected from each neighborhood to form a Civil Defense Patrol.
In the Court, it was decided a meeting place had to be found where the workers could hold gatherings and to store equipment. One of my former listings, the dwelling known as 345 Lexington Road, was chosen because it had a basement, and was one of the few places that could be entered from the outside without going through the house.
Shelves and racks were installed in the basement to hold the steel helmets, special flashlights, stretchers, splints, and other first-aid equipment needed in emergencies. Thick black shades covered all the windows and doors of homes on the Court.
When Sirens wailed in the night, Wardens reported immediately to pick up their helmets and lights. Streets were patrolled to insure that no light was visible from any building and to verify that everyone was off the street.
The wardens stayed at their posts until the “all clear” signal was given. Then they returned to headquarters to replace the equipment (and perhaps socialize).
World War II ended with a community drawn closely together by a common interest. It was decided by the group that they should remain together, meeting in the same place, but calling themselves the Stonewall Court Civic Association.
The purpose of the new association was to further the community interest in civic affairs and to encourage a friendly relationship between all families.
The people who have come to live in the Court continue to picked up the torch by carrying on the ideals and sprit of the Air Raid Wardens of 1941. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a close, caring community; it is one of many in the area I am happy to represent!
[Information provided through the Stonewall Court Civic Association]
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