Downsizing your home can be a loaded decision. We spend so much of our lives upgrading our careers, cars and homes that downsizing can feel counterintuitive. Moving to a smaller home can be really beneficial for some families, especially families who have raised their children and are ready to live as empty nesters. Here are five things to think about before you consider downsizing. Continue reading
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You don’t have to travel to Napa Valley to sample high-quality wines. Enjoy Virginia’s award-winning wineries right in your own backyard. Home to more than 300 wineries, Virginia offers both visitors and locals a unique wine-tasting experience. Kick back, relax and sip with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, tastings held in historic manors or ghost hauntings told by a roaring fire. Living in wine country gives homeowners one more reason to love spending time locally.
Want to check out the local wine scene? Here are a few in Virginia’s Wine Country: Continue reading
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Washington D.C.’s history and culture may be immersed in politics but if you drive 40 miles west you’ll find yourself in the heart of Virginia’s horse country. Virginia’s love of horses and hunting began long before Secretariat won the Triple Crown or the wild ponies of Chincoteague became famous. Historians believe that the American Quarter Horse line began when Virginia colonists bred English bloodlines with native horses to improve their speed. Horses were the backbone of the first Virginia colonies, plowing fields, transportation and hunting game. While the role of horses has changed significantly in Virginia over the years, they continue to be celebrated in Virginia’s Horse Country’s various events. Continue reading
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We’re not going to argue. It’s been a wicked hot summer. Tired of hitting the local pools? Why not grab your swimsuit and take a short road trip to one of these great swimming holes in Virginia and Maryland. The fresh air, wide open spaces and beautiful scenery are sure to help keep you cool in the hot days of summer.
Here are a few watering holes for staying cool this summer. Continue reading
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There are typical costs that are associated with selling a home in Prince William County – everything from administrative fees and taxes to real estate commission. One closing cost item that sellers tend to have questions about is the Congestion Relief Fee (also known as the Grantor’s Tax). Sellers want to know “What is the Congestion Relief Fee?”, “How is it calculated?” and “Does it impact me?” Let’s take a look into each question. Continue reading
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Principal broker, associate broke and managing broker, and a real estate salesperson – what’s the difference between these agents? For many homebuyers, figuring out the various roles and responsibilities for these real estate job titles can be confusing. People tend to use the terms interchangeably, however, each role requires specific classes, tests and licenses, and continuing education requirements. Let’s discuss the roles and responsibilities of each. Continue reading
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The American flag is more than just a piece of cloth; it is one of the most important symbols of the United States. It represents our past, our present and our future and stands for honor, courage and freedom. Thus, the American flag should be treated with the highest respect. When lowered, the flag is traditionally folded into the shape of a tri-cornered hat, emblematic of the hats worn by colonial soldiers during the American Revolutionary War. Continue reading
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As you plan your family’s summer adventures in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., don’t forget to take advantage of the many free things you can do. You can plan plenty of fun and interesting outings that won’t take a bite out of your wallet – everything from hiking historic battlefields and viewing our nation’s most revered monuments to relaxing and listening to accomplished musicians in a waterfront park. Here are some of my favorite things to do in the Washington metro area during the summertime. Continue reading
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During the home buying process, roles like those of the realtor and home inspector are easily understood. Other roles, like the role of the title company, may be puzzling. It’s important to understand the critical role that the title company plays in the purchase of your new home, as it protects you from legal disputes over the property. If you are purchasing a home in Northern Virginia you have the right to use a title company or a real estate attorney to close and process your transaction. With most residential transactions in Northern Virginia, a title company is used. Here are some key points to know about your title company. Continue reading
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Current housing trends have both families and singles moving away from densely populated cities in a search for better housing opportunities. Locations like Fauquier County, VA have experienced consistent population growth over the past 10 years as millennials and families relocate there for a bigger return on their investment. Despite that, the County remains primarily rural. Continue reading
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