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Jacobson Realty and Home Staging (JRY) was established by Broker/Owner Belinda Jacobson-Loehle in April 2002. Belinda is a native Washingtonian who grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and has lived and worked in Gainesville, Virginia since 1995.

What’s best? Saltwater Versus Chlorine Pools

What’s best? Saltwater Versus Chlorine Pools

saltwater-versus-chlorine-poolsIf you’re looking to install a pool in your home (or you already have a pool and are looking to possibly convert it), you may be wondering if saltwater or chlorine is right for you.Each has its own merits and disadvantages. Check out the comparison and see which one may be best for you!

 
Saltwater Pools
 
Pros
  • Healthier – While saltwater pools do indeed have some chlorine in them, they have much lower levels of chlorine than traditional pools and are easier on your skin, hair and eyes. You can avoid itchy skin, red eyes and discolored hair by having a saltwater pool. Also, because this pool requires fewer chemicals, your exposure to potential toxins during routine maintenance will be greatly reduced.
  • Easier to maintain – After you add salt to your water, the filtration system does most of the work of maintaining the chemical levels in your pool. Make sure you keep your filtration system running smoothly and you won’t have to worry about constantly balancing the pH of your pool or adding various chemicals. Cleaning your pool is only required once a year when you will drain the pool, change the filters, scrub surfaces and inspect the chlorine generator.
  • Less expensive to maintain – Because the only chemical you’re adding is salt (unless an issue arises), you should be able to save lots of money on chlorine and other chemicals, which tend to be pricy. Subsequently, you don’t have to be concerned about finding a safe place to safely store chemicals.
 
Cons
  • More expensive to install – The upfront cost of installing a saltwater pool is greater than installing a chlorine pool because the pool’s filtration system is more complex. The system actually generates small amounts of chlorine that, in conjunction with the salt in the water, kill bacteria, viruses and algae.
  • There is still a cost associated with maintenance – Though the maintenance is less with this type of pool, it can be costly and take a lot of time and labor for the annual draining, cleaning and refilling of your pool.
 
Chlorine Pools
 
Pros
  • Less expensive to install – The upfront cost for installing a chlorine pool is less than installing the filtration system for a saltwater pool. If you’re on a tighter budget right now, this may be a better option for you.
  • Doesn’t need to be drained annually – One of the major cons of a saltwater pool can be the cost and labor associated with draining your pool annually. Chlorine pools require more daily maintenance but don’t have the same annual cleaning process of a saltwater pool.
 
Cons
  • More expensive to maintain – Though you do save some money by not refilling your pool annually, pool chemicals needed to maintain proper chemical levels in your pool tend to be costly and safe storage of these chemicals is required. Over time, maintenance of the pool will cost you more than it would with a saltwater pool.
  • Not as healthy – Chlorine levels in this type of pool are much higher and tend to irritate eyes and skin and can discolor hair and swimsuits. If you’re sensitive to chemicals, this type of pool may not be the best option for you.

If you are installing a pool and still are not sure which type to get, consult a few different pool companies, do a cost comparison and think of the future. And be sure to consult a realtor if you don’t plan on living in your home very long, because a pool changes a home’s value. For questions about this or any other real estate related issue, contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’re in tune with you!

Jacobson Realty and Home Staging (JRY) was established by Broker/Owner Belinda Jacobson-Loehle in April 2002. Belinda is a native Washingtonian who grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and has lived and worked in Gainesville, Virginia since 1995. She has been a licensed broker since 1989. 

The JRY mission is to provide professional advice and analysis, maintain clear and consistent communication, and serve clients with respect. The home buying and selling process can be an exciting and stressful experience. Our goal is to make it smooth, educational, enjoyable, quick, and as financially beneficial as possible. 

The desire of JRY is to exceed your expectations to find the home you love or sell the house you have for a deal that is right for you!

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Landscaping Ideas to Add Value to Your Home Now or Later

Landscaping Ideas to Add Value to Your Home Now or Later

You can give your home a facelift, improve your curb appeal

Whether you are planning to move soon or not, you can give your home a facelift, improve your curb appeal and increase your home’s worth by sprucing up your landscaping.

Here are some ideas that can boost your curb appeal and add value to your home.

· Refresh your landscaping. For little to no money, you can spruce up your yard with a small budget and a little sweat equity. You can add pops of color with annuals, perennials or flowering seasonal shrubs. Add fresh mulch to your flower beds and make sure your grass is green and full, edged and free of weeds. Trim your trees and shrubs and make sure you can always see your house! If you can’t get out to do this work yourself, you can hire a high school or college student to do a full yard cleanup and plant some flowering annuals.

· Don’t go overboard. While your prize rosebush may be the envy of fellow gardeners, it might be viewed as a hassle by those who don’t share your passion for gardening. Stick to plantings that are native to the area and easy to maintain. Also, don’t plant an overwhelming amount of plants or too large of a variety – that can make your lawn look cramped or busy. Keep landscaping simple and inviting. And as I always say, “ If you can’t see it (the house), you can’t sell it!”.

· Invest in an outdoor irrigation system. If you have more money to devote to home improvement and want a bigger return on investment, consider installing an underground lawn sprinkler system. With hot, parched summers, this is a sure way to keep your lawn, plants and trees looking healthy and vibrant throughout the summer selling season.

· Call a professional landscaper – If your selling horizon is greater than a year and your budget is flexible, you may want to contact a professional landscaper who can turn your vision into a reality and make recommendations for which plants and landscaping elements would accentuate your home’s best features and camouflage any flaws, gaps or tough growing areas.

· Enhance your landscaping with pavers or bricks. A paved area can add value to your home and doesn’t require a green thumb. You can save money on pavers or bricks by purchasing leftovers online or by searching for the next holiday sale at your local home improvement store. This is a fairly simple DIY project, or you can keep your hands clean and hire a professional to install them.

· Add a shade sail. Make your new paved area more functional and attractive by adding a shade sail. This is another simple DIY project that requires installing 3 timber posts and a shade sail kit. Easy and doable!

· Add solar landscape lighting. – Buyers want to know how their future home will look at night and during the daytime. Consider energy efficient landscape lighting from a home improvement store to add the ambiance you need to set the stage for evening visitors. This is another DIY project that is well worth the time and money spent to sell your home now or later!

· Add potted plants. Save yourself the headache of weeding large areas by adding potted plants and flowers to your front entrance. You can incorporate welcoming bursts of color to your landscape for a relatively low cost.

· Plant trees. Trees can add value to your home for years to come. People enjoy the shade and beauty trees add to the property. They also help with erosion by sucking up storm water. Do your research about the right type of tree for your property based on the sun’s orientation and how close to the house you should plant it. You don’t want to plant too close, as the tree could pose a danger with broken or falling limbs.

We know that landscaping requires investing time, money and effort. The return homeowners get from simple landscaping, though, makes the investment well worth it. If you have questions about your home’s worth or curb appeal, contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’d be happy to get the answers you need to make good decisions and provide referrals to make you feel confident in your decision.

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VHDA Financing for First-Time Homebuyers: A Well Kept Secret

VHDA Financing for First-Time Homebuyers: A Well Kept Secret

If you’re looking for a home loan in Virginia

If you’re looking for a home loan in Virginia, going through the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) may be a good option. The organization is a not-for-profit that helps mostly first-time homebuyers obtain affordable mortgages. They may even be able to assist you with a down payment on your first home through a grant. Learn more about their financing opportunities and grant programs to see if they might be a good alternative for your home purchase.

VHDA’s Down Payment Assistance Grant

If you’re a first-time homebuyer and you qualify for this program, you may receive a percentage of your new home’s purchase price to help with the down payment. If you qualify, you do not have to pay the money back. When you receive this grant, you are eligible for a Mortgage Credit Certificate, which is a dollar-for-dollar credit against your federal income tax liability. It is important to keep in mind that there is a limited amount of grant money offered each year by the VHDA, so the sooner you contact a lender to determine if you qualify, the greater your chances to receive it!

The maximum grant the VHDA offers is 3 to 3.5 percent of the purchase price required for the eligible VHDA loan. There are income limits which you must not exceed in order to receive this grant. There are also only certain VHDA loan programs which qualify for down payment assistance. To learn more about this program, it’s best to contact a lender.

Education for Homebuyers 

VHDA offers free education to help you understand the kinds of loans that are available. They will walk you through the home buying process from start to finish and show you how to stay on track once you’re in your home. You can take the class in person or online.

Eligibility for VHDA Financing

In order to qualify you must:

· Demonstrate creditworthiness

· Be a first-time homebuyer, which means that you have not had ownership in any residence in the past 3 years, unless you are purchasing in an Area of Economic Opportunity

· Intend to occupy the property (not use it as a rental property)

· Show stable income and funds for your down payment and closing costs

· Complete the VHDA’s course on Homeownership Education

· Meet the sales price limits and income guidelines

· Purchase a home on a lot no larger than 2 acres

Home Loans Offered Through VHDA

There are several different loan programs available through VHDA. All have slightly different criteria, and not all are eligible for down payment assistance, so be sure to check with your lender to see which loan is right for your situation. Here’s an overview of loan programs that are available.

· Conventional fixed – This 30-year, fixed-rate program offers you low fixed monthly payments. Conventional private mortgage insurance allows you to finance up to 97 percent of the sales price.

· FHA – This is another 30-year, fixed-rate program that requires a low down payment and is fairly easy to qualify for. It’s FHA-insured and has liberal credit qualifying.

· VA – This 30-year, fixed-rate program requires no down payment (for eligible Veterans) and offers low fixed monthly payments. It’s VA-guaranteed and has a low, fixed interest rate.

· RHS – A fourth 30-year, fixed-rate program is government insured and offers low, fixed monthly payments. This loan requires no down payment in approved rural areas.

· FHA Plus – This loan program allows you to finance your home 100 percent with two mortgages, one for the FHA-insured first mortgage and the second to fund a down payment and closing costs. Both loans are low 30-year fixed-rate.

Even with great programs, the VHDA is still one of the best kept secrets around. But the secret is out, and now you know you have another option for financing that home you’ve been dreaming of. For more information, visit www.vhda.com. To start searching for your home, contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’ll help get you set for the next chapter in your life!

Jacobson Realty and Home Staging (JRY) was established by Broker/Owner Belinda Jacobson-Loehle in April 2002. Belinda is a native Washingtonian who grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and has lived and worked in Gainesville, Virginia since 1995. She has been a licensed broker since 1989. 

The JRY mission is to provide professional advice and analysis, maintain clear and consistent communication, and serve clients with respect. The home buying and selling process can be an exciting and stressful experience. Our goal is to make it smooth, educational, enjoyable, quick, and as financially beneficial as possible. 

The desire of JRY is to exceed your expectations to find the home you love or sell the house you have for a deal that is right for you!

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New homebuyer? Here’s what you need to know!

New homebuyer? Here’s what you need to know!

When you are buying a home, especially for the first time,

When you are buying a home, especially for the first time, there are some things you need to keep in mind, not just about the house and property itself, but about the roads, community and more. It’s a lot to keep track of, especially during all the excitement! Staying informed and level headed, though, will help you purchase a home you will be happy in for many years. Use this handy list of do’s and don’ts to help you make a decision on whether or not a home you are considering buying is right for you.

Know the house

· Understand the condition of the property before you buy it. Don’t purchase without a home inspection.

· Consider purchasing a home warranty. Not only can it save you money, it can give you peace of mind.

· When buying a fixer upper or a home that needs updating, estimate your costs before you sign on the dotted line. You want to prevent any overwhelming surprises and budget nightmares.

· If you buy a house with an in-ground basement, be certain to have a professional radon test.

Know the land

· If the land behind you is undeveloped, know who owns it. Don’t assume that it will stay undeveloped.

· Don’t purchase in a flood plain without flood plain insurance, even if it’s a 100-year-old flood plain. You just never know.

· Don’t purchase next to a water tank/tower – you will never be able to landscape high enough to cover the view!

Know the roads

· Know how your roads are maintained – by the county, community or you.

· If your property backs to a road, make sure there is adequate screening, and check sound levels during high traffic times.

· Don’t purchase a house at the top of a “T” intersection – you will always have headlights shining in on your entrance.

· Don’t buy at a stop sign unless you are prepared to watch cars come and go all day long.

Know the neighborhood

· Don’t purchase next to a fire station unless you are prepared to hear sirens at all hours of the night.

· If you purchase near a golf course, don’t purchase in the line of golf ball fire! Know the golf course layout – window replacement is expensive. Golf course lots located at the tee or green are safe and most desirable.

Know the community

· When purchasing in a community with an HOA, know the rules. Review the HOA documents to understand the restrictions before you move in.

· When purchasing in a community without an HOA, examine the community and how it is cared for. What you see if what you get. Your only recourse will be the county rules and regulations if there is an issue.

· When buying a townhouse, check the availability of visitor parking. Is it convenient and plentiful?

· Learn about activities, amenities and events in the community. Will these fit your lifestyle?

· Learn about the schools, public services, crime rates and other aspects of the community that will affect your quality of life.

At Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, we are familiar with the local homes, communities, neighborhoods and area. We are not just Realtors – we are residents. If you would like expert advice on where to purchase your home and how to hone in on the ones that would be perfect for you and your family, contact us. We’d be happy to help.

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3 Good Questions to Ask When Buying Your New Home

3 Good Questions to Ask When Buying Your New Home

When you’re searching for your first home or maybe your dream home
When you’re searching for your first home or maybe your dream home — there’s so much information out there that it can make your head spin. In the information age, there are so many do-it-yourself real estate options, you can spend hours and hours researching homes. But is the information floating around the web accurate? It’s important to ask the right questions or you may end up wandering around cyberspace aimlessly or bouncing from open house to open house with no guidance. Here are a few key questions that can help you in your home search.
How do I find the best realtor to help me purchase my first home or my dream home?
Find an expert in the area you are searching. An area expert will have all the information on the best neighborhoods, school zones, communities with amenities, local shopping, restaurants, attractions and more. Chances are everybody knows a realtor, but family and friends may not be the best choice. Credentials and experience matter, and purchasing a home is a business decision, so don’t feel bad if you don’t go with a friend or family member who might not be the right fit for your transaction.
Can I rely on real estate portals like Zillow, Trulia or Homes.com for information?
While these websites might whet your appetite for house hunting, not all the information shown is accurate. These are syndicated and re-syndicated third-party providers. The information is gathered from the MLS but is not always updated correctly. These websites are in the business of gathering quantities of listings information, not necessarily quality. The information may even be very old. When you’re dealing with old information, the estimates and “zestimates” are often not reliable. It’s great to have access to all this information, but what good is it if you’re showing up to listings that are no longer active? This is where having a local real estate expert comes in handy. Your agent has direct access to the most current local information. Get to your dream house before the balloons on the open house sign are even inflated with up-to-the-minute accurate information from your agent.
Will I find a local expert at open houses?
Yes, but realtors at open houses will be representing the seller. Just like you wouldn’t go to traffic court and ask the prosecutor to defend you, you shouldn’t expect the selling agent to look out for your best interests. The agent showing the open house is required to provide truthful information, but that agent does not represent you and is not vested in getting you the price you need. You really need someone on your side of the table to negotiate a good deal. Being represented byyour own real estate expert is always your best bet.
Jacobson Realty and Home Staging has the latest information on area homes and expert, local realtor familiar with the area. You to see some current listings right now:
After viewing the listings, when you are ready, call (703) 753-0125 or emailBelinda@JacobsonRealty1.com.

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Jacobson Realty Partners with Kensington Vanguard National Land Services in Gainesville, VA

Jacobson Realty Partners with Kensington Vanguard National Land Services in Gainesville, VA

Jennifer McCarthy, Esq., Kensington Vanguard
Jennifer McCarthy, Esq., Kensington Vanguard

Closing is an important part of every real estate transaction, and a title company is part of that transaction. A good title company should:

· Understand the latest closing procedures

· Have an attorney in the office or on staff to answer questions and resolve title disputes

· Provide good customer care and communication, especially important with first-time homebuyers

· Be timely in the recordation of your transaction and the disposition of assets

When attention to detail counts, you want experience on your side. That is why Jacobson Realty has partnered with the best in the area, Kensington Vanguard National Land Service’s Gainesville branch.

Jennifer E. McCarthy, Esq. is the Vice President of the DC Metro Region for Kensington Vanguard National Land Services. A real estate attorney with 11 years of experience, Jenifer has partnered with Jacobson and is handling real estate titles and settlements to better cater to our clients’ needs.

The pairing made sense for everyone because of Jennifer’s vast knowledge of real estate law. She is an attorney who knows the full spectrum of title law. Her processor, Amy Warmack, has over 20 years of experience. Together, they provide excellent customer service, answering questions promptly to get transactions processed as soon as possible.

Jennifer McCarthy, Esq., Kensington Vanguard
Jacobson Realty and Home Staging clients post-closing on their new home

When you work with Jennifer, a typical transaction starts with a title search. She will then contact both the buyers and sellers to make sure all the loan documents are set. Amy coordinates the paperwork for the transaction, and Jennifer typically meets with clients upon settlement and makes herself available to resolve last minute issues.

A national company, Kensington Vanguard conducts settlements all across the country. Jennifer says her branch is very enmeshed in the Western Prince William County community. Jennifer is a member of the Virginia State Bar, the Prince William County Association of Realtors and the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association. Their branch is a member of the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce and the Haymarket Gainesville Business Association. They take part in local events and sponsor area fundraisers. Jennifer herself is a lifelong resident of Haymarket.

We are happy to offer this partnership so you get the smoothest possible real estate transaction with an experienced team, from searching for a home to signing the closing documents. Seasoned professionals make all the difference in your home buying and selling experience, and we want yours to be the best it can be!

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Why You Need a Dedicated (and Real) Realtor

Why You Need a Dedicated (and Real) Realtor

Buying a home is a major investment

Buying a home is a major investment, which is why it’s best left to the experts — dedicated, local realtors. Here are nine reasons why we feel Jacobson Realty and Home Staging is best positioned to help you buy, stage and sell:

· Personalized service – We have more time to devote to each client, a client who is an individual. We will get to know you, what you’re looking for, what you’re not looking for, what your financial situation is. All of these factors are important when you’re buying or selling a home.

· Home staging – Jacobson Realty and Home Staging offers free home staging services with experienced home stagers who take their time and assess your home’s appearance, see its potential and execute a beautifully staged home that will fetch the best offers.

· Motivation – We are invested in seeing you succeed. It’s not just about the money. It’s about our clients’ satisfaction, which is crucial when a home is being sold or purchased.

· Choice of agent – When you choose to work with us, you are putting your trust in us, and we take that seriously. We know there are other realtors out there, and we appreciate your confidence in us.

· Expertise – Our real estate agents have expertise in both the field and your location. Our realtors have plenty of community connections and insider advice on neighborhoods, schools, community activities and more.

· Flexibility – When you work with Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, you have someone who wants to make the deal work for you, someone who has the flexibility to be creative to get you into your dream home or sell your current home.

· Diversity – You are not a cookie cutter customer, so why would you benefit from a one-size-fits-all generic realty service? Experienced agents, who have more time to devote to you as an individual, can learn what you truly need and help you get there. That’s what we offer.

· Value – We have a wide range of homes we can help you bid on, more flexible financing options and advice on how to get the best price for your home. In the long run, that saves you money.

· Support – Buying or selling a home is listed as one of the official biggest life stressors. You don’t want to go through that stress with someone who does not have your best interest at heart. You want someone who can help bring you through transactions smoothly and get you where you need to be.

We encourage you to take a look at our website where you will find options tosearch for a home, get your home assessed, learn more about the community and read about tips and tricks that will help get you what you need. When you are ready, call us at (703) 753-0125 or email us at Belinda@JacobsonRealty1.com. We promise you will be pleased with the service you receive.

And don’t miss the Community Parade of Homes at Virginia Oaks on Sunday, May 31st, 1-4 p.m. Come see what VA Oaks has to offer! Visit the newly renovated clubhouse too! Open to all.

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Moving? Tips to Keep Your Pet Happy Too!

Moving? Tips to Keep Your Pet Happy Too!

pets, moving can be stressful
First came the house cleaning, de-cluttering, and staging. Then you found your dream home and put in a bid. Now it’s closing day and you’re all packed up and ready to go. The humans in the house are no doubt very excited today, but for pets, moving can be stressful. We put together some tips on how to make a smooth transition with your pets so that moving day is fun and exciting for everyone in the family.

· Have a first day kit for your animals. Just like you want to have your essentials easily accessible as soon as you get to your new home, you want to have the basics for pet care at your fingertips. Pack what you will need for the first few days in your new home in a separate box that goes with you in your vehicle (rather than being packed away in a moving truck or van) so that you don’t have to dig through 100 boxes to find dog food or cat treats.

· Have things set with your new vet. If you’re relocating to an unfamiliar area, you’ll want to go to your old vet and get copies of your pet’s medical records and make sure all prescription medications are filled. Your vet may be able to recommend a new vet wherever you are moving, so while you’re there, ask.

· Keep things calm for your animals on moving day. Ideally, kenneling your furry friends or having them stay with a friend is the best way to keep them out of the moving mayhem. With doors being left open to move boxes and furniture out of the house, it is easy for a dog or cat to slip out the front door, and the last thing you need is a search and rescue mission in the midst of a move. If you’re unable to find someone else to watch your pets, keep them in a quiet room away from the moving action until you have everything out of the house.

· Move your pets in your vehicle. Don’t place animal crates in the moving van or truck where it may be unsafe and uncomfortable for your pets. Instead, crate them (if possible) and let them ride with you.

· Get the house (somewhat) set up before bringing your pet to your new home. There will be a lot of change in one day for an animal, so giving your pets some familiarity by setting up the basics in even just a room or two will give them a sense of home.

· Don’t let your pets escape once you arrive. When you get to your new home, make sure your animals are secured either in a kennel or on a leash before opening the car doors so that they do not bolt off into unfamiliar territory. If you have a cat who is typically an outdoor cat, keep him/her inside the new house for a few days to adjust before allowing outdoor exploration.

At Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, we know pets are part of the family, and when a family member is unhappy, that can make moving day more difficult. By keeping your pets feeling safe and secure, the transition between the new and the old will be a lot smoother, and everyone will settle in a little more quickly. Let us help you make your next move a positive one in every way. Contact us to buy, stage or sell a home.

“Belinda, we can’t thank you enough for all the hard work you did and for putting up with us through the rough spots…service was excellent!” –A and M

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Mystery Solved: R versus r in “Realtor”

Mystery Solved: R versus r in “Realtor.”

What’s the difference between a realtor and a Realtor?

Many people have asked us, “What’s the difference between a realtor and a Realtor? Why the capital “R”?” Today, we’re here to solve that mystery and more.

A Realtor, pronounced “real-tor” (there is no “a” or “i” between the two syllables), with a capital R, is part of the National Association of Realtors and has committed to upholding the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of Realtors. This means you get the gold standard in ethical service from a Realtor, but you may not receive the same from a realtor. The gold standard is what you get from Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, where we are all Realtors.

What is the National Association of Realtors?

The National Association of Realtors is made up of over 1.1 million members from all aspects of real estate. This includes brokers, salespeople, counselors, appraisers, property managers and others from the commercial, industrial and residential real estate fields.

In order to be a Realtor, someone in the field has to join the Association and agree to abide by the strict Code of Ethics. Ongoing continuing education requirements in the Code of Ethics must also be completed in addition to state-mandated training. The Association provides a wealth of information and a facility for research, the exchange of information and professional development.

What is in The Code of Ethics?

Realtors have certain obligations to their clients and customers, to the public and to other Realtors as outlined in the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of Realtors.

Their duties help ensure you as a client or customer are getting fair, honest and equal information at all times.

· Realtors cannot mislead an owner about the market value of a home to get their listing.

· Realtors are not allowed to mislead buyers about savings or benefits they can receive through their services.

· A Realtor can only represent both the buyer and seller in a transaction (or the landlord and the tenant) after all parties are fully informed and written consent is documented.

· A Realtor must submit offers and counter-offers objectively and quickly.

· A Realtor can only permit access to a property on the terms and conditions authorized by the owner or seller.

· Realtors must preserve and protect the confidential information of a client.

There are much more standards of practice listed in the Code of Ethics that Realtors must abide by, all of which stack up to a trustworthy and confident transaction for you.

Duties to the Public

A Realtor also has duties to the public. In the state of Virginia, they may not discriminate against race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status (a parent or guardian with children residing with them who are under the age of 18 years old), national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity. They also may not volunteer information about the racial, ethnic or religious composition of any neighborhood. They must be honest in all communications and not present misleading information to the public.

Duties to Other Real Estate Professionals

A Realtor has duties to other real estate professionals to keep a strong ethical backbone in the real estate community. Realtors cannot knowingly or recklessly make false or misleading statements orally, or in writing, about other real estate professionals, their businesses or business practices.

All of these rules and regulations that Realtors must follow help ensure the highest level of professionalism in the real estate business. As Realtors here at Jacobson Realty and Home Staging Company, Inc., we are committed to upholding the highest standard of ethics to give you service you can trust when buying or selling a home. Contact us today for more information.

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Farmers Markets in Haymarket, Gainesville, Bristow and Manassas, Virginia

Farmers Markets in Haymarket, Gainesville, Bristow and Manassas, Virginia

Warm weather is finally here!

Warm weather is finally here! With springtime renewal comes the return of many options for purchasing fresh, local produce, meats, honey and more from area farmers. When you purchase food from farmers markets, not only are you getting fresher, better-quality whole foods, but you’re putting money back into our communities by supporting local businesses. Here are some options for fresh food shopping in Haymarket, Gainesville, Bristow and Manassas, Virginia.

Haymarket Farmers Market – This market runs on Saturdays from April through October. You can purchase local fruits, veggies, fresh flowers, bedding plants and decorative items. The market is located in the Town Hall parking lot at 15000 Washington Street. All vendors sell only Virginia grown products, so you can rest assured your money is going back into the local community.

Haymarket Thursday Afternoon Market – Every Thursday from May through October, you can find this farmers market open from 2:30-6:30 p.m. They have tons of fresh produce, meats, honey, baked goods and more. The market is located at 16015 John Marshal Hwy in Broad Run, VA.

Gainesville Farmers Market – Every Thursday from 2 until 6 p.m., from May through September, you can shop this seasonal farmers market. It is located at 13550 Heathcote Blvd., Gainesville, VA.

Smart Market – Located in Bristow, VA, Smart Market is open year-round on Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They have a wide variety of local vendors who provide the community with fresh produce, meats, baked goods and more. Some of their vendors include Granted! Artisanal Bakery, Great Harvest Bread Company, Heritage Kettle Corn, Holly Brook Farm Meats and Dairy, Ignacio’s Produce, Little Green Farm, Real Country Sausage, Sweet Nuna, Tyson Farms and Orchards and Warhorse BBQ. This market is located at 8301 Linton Hall Rd., Bristow, VA.

City of Manassas Farmers Market – This farmers market was voted one of the best by Prince William Living Magazine. Starting in April, the farmers market is open on Thursdays in Harris Pavilion in Historic Downtown Manassas. Saturdays the market is located in parking lot B behind the Harris Pavilion from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Here at Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, we love our local farmers markets, not just for the health and economic benefits, but for the community aspect. When you go to a farmers market, you can meet the folks who actually produce your food. You get to talk to neighbors, as well as people you might not have met before. You get a sense of what is happening in the area. And of course, you get to enjoy the great outdoors with people who appreciate some of the things you do.

If you would like more information about our community, contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’d love to talk to you about this place we call home!

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