Tag Archives: Haymarket VA

In the Hot Summer, We All Scream for Ice Cream!

In the Hot Summer, We All Scream for Ice Cream!

It’s summer, and in Northern Virginia, that means it’s H-O-T outside. The good news is there’s no shortage of ice cream places in Gainesville/Haymarket/Bristow to go to cool off! Here are some of my favorites. Continue reading

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Hiking Day Trips

Hiking Day Trips

The greatest part of living in the Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow area is being so close to picturesque mountain hikes. We are no more than an hour or two away from some amazing hiking trails where you can unplug, relax, commune with nature and catch sight of Virginia’s native wildlife and plants. Here are some of our favorite hiking day trips. Continue reading

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Great Care in Your Neighborhood – Novant Hospital in Haymarket

Great Care in Your Neighborhood – Novant Hospital in Haymarket

Novant Hospital in Haymarket offers many specialties, offering you access to world-class doctors and surgeons without having to commute to D.C. or Richmond. Take a look at some of the specialized services that you can expect from this Northern Virginia-based hospital. Continue reading

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How to Buy a Historic Home in Virginia

How to Buy a Historic Home in Virginia

One of the great things about Northern VirginiaOne of the great things about Northern Virginia and specifically Manassas, Haymarket, and Bristow is that all of these towns have rich histories, particularly from the Civil War era. If history interests you and you love architecture from days gone by, and if you go in with a clear understanding of the related expenses, a historic home may be for you.
The National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register were established in 1966 and are managed by the National Park Service and the Department of Historic Resources, respectively. Virginia has approximately 3,000 registered historic properties. You can visit the state and national registers online to learn more about these properties, updates, and educational programs.

Here are some tips for buying a historic home:

  • First, you need to understand whether you are buying a historic home that is registered in the National Register of Historic Places or buying a home that is in a historic district but not in the registry yet. Each scenario has different tax credits and benefits, which you should discuss with your CPA before signing a sale contract.
  • Once you have identified the property, have a home inspection contingency in the sale contract as a condition of the sale before closing. Choose an inspector who specializes in older homes and hire a structural engineer to fully assess the repairs and restoration.
  • Older homes can contain asbestos, radon, and lead paint, so make sure your sales contract allows for additional tests, and know that all results pass safety and health standards.
  • Know your budget for purchasing and renovating your home up front so you can choose the right home. Armed with the information from your home inspections, get price estimates from contractors to see how much the repairs and improvements will cost.
  • There are local and state laws that govern the rehabilitation of historic buildings. Be very familiar with these laws to make sure you’re able to fulfill your obligation to properly remodel the property.
  • Understand that the goal of renovating a historic home is to preserve the original structure as much as possible, so certain renovations are off limits.
  • Check out the last year’s utility bills if the property is functional. It may cost you a pretty penny to heat and cool an older home, so learn the facts before you purchase.
  • Get an estimate on homeowner’s insurance. Make sure you can get replacement cost coverage to receive the highest protection.
  • Check the tax rate for the historic district you’re shopping in. Sometimes there is a special tax associated with living in that area.
  • Virginia has a program that offers special tax credits to certified historic structures, so choosing a historic home may have some attractive financial benefits. Ask your realtor for a CPA referral if you don’t already have one.

Historic homes are not for everyone, but if you feel passionate about purchasing an older home that has a classic American look and feel, we can help you find just the right home, as well as help with your homework. At Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, we know the historic areas and the market. Let us help you find the home of your dreams! Contact us today.

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Free and Cheap Family Entertainment in Haymarket, Gainesville and Manassas, Virginia

Free and Cheap Family Entertainment in Haymarket, Gainesville and Manassas, Virginia

As summer winds down, we want to soak up every last ray of sunshineAs summer winds down, we want to soak up every last ray of sunshine before it’s time to break out the winter coats and boots again. There are plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to take advantage of in the Manassas, Gainesville and Haymarket areas. Here is a list of upcoming free events for you to enjoy while the weather is still warm enough to bask in the sunshine.
  • The Winery at La Grange – When is a winery more than a winery? When it holds free concerts on the lawn! Throughout August, enjoy the lovely, vineyard views, hear a variety of performers and bask in an afternoon or evening of relaxation, all at the Winery at La Grange in Haymarket, VA. On certain days, there are even food trucks and vendors. Take some time out for yourself. You earned it!
  • Virginia Gateway – Saturdays at 7 a.m. for the entire month of August, there is free sunrise yoga. This class is open level, so if you’re just trying out yoga or deepening your established practice, they have what you need here. Virginia Gateway also offers a free Little Tots day through August, when the kids gather to play in the fountain and have fun activities. Regal offers $1 kids’ movies throughout the summer. The money goes to charity.
  • Harris Pavilion – The Pavilion offers concerts galore throughout the summer and beyond. There are many restaurants within walking distance, or you can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the eclectic offerings of local musicians. This is the perfect summer activity for parents to introduce their kids to local music in a family-friendly venue, with reasonable decibel levels and at a good time of day for kids to enjoy music without being too tuckered out. The Pavilion also holds a Friday Night Family Movie, the First Baptist Church of Manassas Community Festival and a Sunday ice cream social.
Want some other ideas? Lowe’s offers a free Build and Grow program for kids. Home Depotoffers free workshops for kids. The Prince William County library system offers free entertainment and events.
Here at Jacobson Realty and Home Staging, we pride ourselves on keeping up to date on community happenings. What’s more, we participate in them! If you would like more information on our area and the wonderful things that await you when you decide to make this place your home, contact us. We’d be happy to tell you all about this place we call home, too.

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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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Best Golf Course Picks in Gainesville and Haymarket, Virginia

Best Golf Course Picks in Gainesville and Haymarket, Virginia

your choice of challenging, 18-hole courses

Imagine having your choice of challenging, 18-hole courses all within a short drive (pun unintended) of your home. Or imagine having a course in your own back yard! If you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for lessons, you can find the right course in this area to fit your needs. Here are some of my best golf course picks, both public and private, you can enjoy in Gainesville and Haymarket, Virginia.

Evergreen Country Club – This club is one of the best keep secrets in Northern Virginia! Although it is a private membership club, you should find someone or some way to play this course. It is truly a golfer’s dream. The course was built to be a golf course and has only a scattering of houses near it. Located in Haymarket along the foothills of Bull Run Mountain, the natural beauty of the mountains with wide fairways and centuries old hardwood trees, along with the wildlife, is just amazing. This is my favorite golf course in the area and is most spectacular in autumn. Whether you are a competitive golfer or a weekend recreational golfer, you will enjoy Evergreen’s country club’s hospitality and picturesque views on and off the course.

Stonewall Golf Club at Lake Manassas – If you’re looking to play 18 holes at a public, championship course, look no further. This Gainesville course, designed by Tom Jackson, is a top choice for golfers who like consistent course conditions, beautiful landscaping and outstanding views of Lake Manassas. There are many long drive opportunities from the back tee boxes and some kneel knocking blind drives from the forward tees. Golf fees are not inexpensive, but this course is worth the spurge. The 19th hole at the lovely Brass Cannon restaurant and patio conclude your experience, with a fine meal. Locker rooms are available to freshen up for dining.

Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club – Designed by Arthur Hill, the layout of this course, located in Gainesville, VA, is not simple because it weaves in and out of environmentally protected areas. Again, bring extra golf balls. Although this is a private golf club, outside memberships are available. The clubhouse and staff provide that traditional experience that many people associate with golf. The staff is pleasant and supportive of your needs. When an open club event is available, I recommend spending the money to enjoy all aspects of this club.

Bull Run Golf Club – This public course in Haymarket, located at the base of the Bull Run Mountains, is worth a visit and a round of play! Here again, the course harmonizes with its natural landscape – so many trees and creeks are undisturbed. It’s a fun course even when your shot is in trouble. The final few finishing holes from all tee boxes are challenging, so pace yourself in order to finish strong! Golf prices are reasonable, and the clubhouse and pro shop offer a nice, casual experience.

Virginia Oaks Golf Club – Known for its bent grass tees, fairways and greens, this 18-hole course offers a challenging day of golf. Located in Gainesville, VA, this golf course is designed by P.B. Dye with very reasonable golf fees. Fairways are narrow, but the scenic backdrop of Lake Manassas helps keep you calm as you find yourself in and out of the fairway. Bring plenty of extra balls! The recently renovated clubhouse, back patio and pro shop provide a comfortable casual dining experience inside and out.

With all that’s available, it’s no wonder golf aficionados are moving to Western PWC so that they can experience top notch golf in their own back yards. If you’re interested in experiencing one of our golf courses yourself, give Jacobson Realty and Home Staging a call at (703) 338-9678 or email us. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Active Adult Communities in Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, and Surrounding Area of Virginia

Active Adult Communities in Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, and Surrounding Area of Virginia

55 is the new 45

You may have heard that 55 is the new 45. Builders are keeping this youthful spirit in mind when designing their active adult communities. These communities aren’t a place where you just play shuffleboard and grab the early bird special at 4. They are planned with active adults in mind. These builders realize that people are retiring later (and often are still commuting to jobs) and want engaging amenities conveniently located close to home. There are many communities in the Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow areas that cater to the next generation of (soon-to-be) retirees. Check out these beautiful communities:

· Heritage Hunt in Gainesville – If you love to golf, this Lennar community is for you. Built around a championship 18-hole golf course, you can roll out of bed in the morning and tee off practically in your backyard, or find easy access to RT 66 for commuters. This gated community also brings you luxurious, country club living with dozens of amenities. Between them, three clubhouses offer a grand ballroom, activity rooms, a golf pro shop, fine dining, billiards and much more. This community offers maintenance-free living with accessible floor plans. You can choose from a luxury elevator condominium, low-maintenance duplex, villas, or a main-level living single-family home. If you love nature, you can enjoy the long walking paths throughout the community and absorb the scenic views of the Bull Run Mountain!

· Regency at Dominion Valley in Haymarket – Another golfer’s paradise, this Toll Brother’s community also boasts a terrific executive golf course and provides access to the standard Dominion Valley golf course. This upscale community also has condominium, attached and detached homes, so you can find the space that truly suits you. There are plenty of community activities. To stay fit and active, they have indoor and outdoor pools as well as a fitness center with an aerobics studio, a yoga room and a spin class. If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are many parks and on-site trails to explore. And you won’t have to worry about maintaining your yard here. They offer lawn and exterior care and snow removal as a few of the many community perks.

· Dunbarton in Bristow – Part of the larger Braemar community built by Brookfield Homes, this gated community has almost 500 single-family and attached home residences. It boasts many recreational activities and resort-style amenities, like a 21,000 square foot clubhouse, a library, a billiards parlor, a ballroom, an indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness center. Close to D.C., this is a great location if you have to commute to the city for work. It’s also close enough to the countryside, mountains and fabulous golf courses to be an ideal spot for retirement.

· NEW – Regency at Catharpin Creek in nearby Catharpin – This 125- acre active adult community by Toll Brothers is currently under construction. Infrastructure should be completed by the fall, with the possibility of pre-sales starting at that time. It will have the same Toll Brothers quality of construction and include a gated entrance, clubhouse, pools and walking trails, but it will not have a golf course. Phase one has been approved by Prince William County for 79 single-family units.

Jacobson Realty and Home Staging knows this area well and has worked with home sellers and home buyers in different phases of life. You can rest easy knowing that when you work with us, you are getting expert advice from professionals who live in the area and know the communities. If you or someone you know would like more information on communities in Gainesville, Haymarket, Bristow or surrounding areas of Virginia, we’re here. Give us a call or send us an email. We’d be happy to guide you to your next home purchase.

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Find Medical Care at Its Best in Gainesville and Haymarket, VA

Find Medical Care at Its Best in Gainesville and Haymarket, VA

Health is everything

Health is everything. And good medical care is crucial. People in the Gainesville and Haymarket, VA areas are fortunate to have access to high quality healthcare in their own backyards. These facilities provide emergency services, general medical services, maternity care, surgery, cancer services and much more. You can count on top notch medical care with superb medical staff using cutting-edge technology in a clean and friendly environment at these two centers:

Novant Haymarket Medical Center

This facility offers a variety of medical services using cutting-edge technology. Some of the services they offer include:

· Breast care – They have a dedicated breast care center to screen for and treat breast cancer. You will have a team of medical professionals to help you navigate every step of your treatment.

· Emergency services – In an emergency, you want to know you’re getting the best possible care in the shortest amount of time. Novant stands behind their wait times and publishes them online, so you can check before you leave for the hospital.

· Heart and vascular – This medical center has won awards for their heart and vascular services. You can count on your team of highly-skilled doctors, cardiovascular technologists and nurses if you need these services.

· Orthopedics – From injuries to chronic pain, the orthopedic specialists at Novant can help you. Some of their services include total joint replacement for knees, hip, elbows and shoulders, sports medicine procedures, tendon and nerve repair and specialized hand, wrist and elbow surgery.

· Pain management – You don’t have to live with chronic pain when you can receive pain management services from the team of experts here.

· Pediatric services – Take comfort in knowing your children will also receive the highest quality of medical care from one of their pediatricians, family medicine doctors or pediatric subspecialists. For babies who require extra medical care, they have a fully-equipped, level 1 nursery with board-certified neonatologists and NICU-experienced nurses.

· Stroke and neurosciences – Receive treatment for many different conditions that can affect your brain and nervous system, including stroke.

· Women’s health – Girls and women can get the best quality care from a variety of specialists. A few services they offer include cancer diagnosis and treatment, bone health, high-risk pregnancy, maternity services, menopause, stroke, uterine fibroids, breast health, uterine artery embolization, vein health and more.

Novant Health Cancer Center at Lake Manassas

This is another amazing facility our area offers. You can get a personalized, comprehensive cancer treatment plan here. The center is a free-standing, dedicated facility so you don’t have to navigate a large hospital campus to get to your appointments. Appointments are fast and easily accessible. The best weapon against cancer is early detection, so this center also offers cancer screening in addition to treatment. They offer imaging such as MRI, ultrasound, x-ray, nuclear medicine, mammography and CT. In addition, they offer biopsy, endoscopy, lab tests and staging. This center is nationally recognized by the American College of Radiology. They treat all major types of cancer.

As residents, we are not only proud of the medical services these facilities offer, we feel genuinely reassured knowing that we have preventative care as well as treatment available for most illnesses. It’s comforting to know that help is just a few miles away and that we have excellent medical professionals close by. If you would like more information on what else our area offers, contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’d be happy to show you why we call this place home.

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Super Shopping Destinations in Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, VA

Super Shopping Destinations in Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, VA

perfect outfit

Maybe you need to run out for the perfect outfit for that big job interview, supplies for your son’s last-minute science project or just a little retail therapy. From antiques and home décor to cruise attire or the next business suit, you can find just about anything you need in the many stores located Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, VA. Here are a few of our favorite shopping destinations in the area:

· Francesca’s – If you’re shopping for youthful trendy clothing and gifts, you can get the boutique experience at the Virginia Promenade in Gainesville. It’s hip, it’s fun, it’s trendy and it’s a place that you can get in and out of quickly because it just isn’t that big.

· White House Black Market – This Gainesville shop offers stylish contemporary daywear wear with classic lines for all ages. If personalized service is what you want, you can get it here.

· J. Crew and Loft – J. Crew is the newest boutique to open in Gainesville’s Virginia Promenade. It provides youthful sportswear and career choices for the gal who is transitioning to upscale career and daywear. Loft provide a similar quality and line of clothing.

· Chico’s – January through March is the perfect time of year to book a cruise and beat the winter chill. Chico’s has “all hands on deck” to help you get to your destination. The upscale ladies boutique on Atlas Walk in Gainesville has fabulous sportswear for vacation and business travel. Everything packs easily, and no ironing is required. Who can ask for more?

· Jo Bank – Let’s not forget the man who is moving up the cooperate ladder or simply wants to look good at the next social or golf event. Jo Bank in Gainesville has personalized service and quality merchandize that your peers will remember.

· The Very Thing for Her – This Gainesville upscale ladies and children’s consignment shop carries designer clothes, handbags and fine jewelry. If you’re looking for unique, vintage finds or upscale brands and low prices, this shop is the place to go.

· The Running Store – If you’re a seasoned marathoner or training for your first 5k, the shoes you wear will make a world of difference. This Gainesville store caters to all levels of runners (and walkers), offering gear you need to get fit and hit the pavement. They will assess your stride and find the perfect shoes for your next jog, race, or breast cancer walk!

· IT’SUGAR This unique shop is more than a candy store! Looking for sweet delights or novelty gifts? You can find both at IT’S SUGAR, and it’s located just down from the Regal Movie Theaters in Gainesville!

· Comics and Gaming – For the Dungeons & Dragons or Marvel lover in your life, you can find games, comics and collectibles in this Gainesville store. They have a “subscribe and save” program that offers 10 percent off comic titles when you reserve your copy at the store.

· Super Target – If you’re looking for new throw pillows or you need to pick up ingredients for dinner tonight, you can find just about anything you’re looking for (and maybe some things you weren’t looking for) at Gainesville’s Super Target.

· Details for the Home – This charming shop located in a historic home in Haymarket has all sorts of gifts, from trendy jewelry, to bags to decorative items for your home. And don’t miss the large Pandora jewelry collection on display. Give yourself time to wander around every nook and cranny.

· Needles in the Haymarket – If you love to knit or crochet, you’ll be in yarn heaven at this Haymarket shop. They have many varieties of quality yarn for you to use in your creations. If you want to brush up on your knitting or crocheting skills, they even offer classes and workshops.

· The White Elephant Antiques – If you love antiquing, this historical Bristow home turned antique shop is for you. This place is jam-packed with great finds, and you can put your money back into the community by supporting a local small business.

There are hosts of other stores in Gainesville, Haymarket and Bristow, of course. And what’s nice is, they are all so conveniently located. Plus, you don’t have to go to a mall to fulfill your shopping desires and needs. It’s all right here in your own back yard! If you would like more information, feel free to contact Jacobson Realty and Home Staging. We’d love to give you a tour of the area!

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