Fairfax County VA Home Search Website Blog

Fairfax County, Virginia real estate advice for Sellers everywhere!  Apply common sense curb appeal when you’re trying to sell your Fairfax County VA homes for sale.  Turn on the TV, radio, or computer and you’re practically saturated in ideas on how to prepare your home for sale to the highest bidder.

Curb Appeal: It’s Elementary, My Dear Watson

Sometimes the simplest (and cheapest) solutions are right under our nose.  Sure, renovations, additions, upgrades and updates are great—and should not be overlooked.  But common sense says a Fairfax County home needs maintenance if it is to be sellable.

You need to start thinking about basic things you should be doing to maintain the home, particularly the exterior.

Increasingly Discerning Buyers in Today’s Real Estate Market

The Fairfax County, Virginia real estate market right now is a challenging one for sellers—hence, all the more reason why every little detail matters!  Buyers know they are in a strong marketing position and literally won’t put up with any rubbish when window shopping for homes.

Remember that before a potential buyer even considers an in-home showing, they want curb appeal—and not just any curb appeal, mind you. The discerning home buyer of today wants everything “just so.” 

Here’s what Buyers look for in a Home’s Exterior:

• Precision lawn care is Key—that means weekly mowing and edging in the warm months and snow or ice removal in the cold months.  The perfect model home features mowing done in precise straight lines resulting in a very symmetrical, uniform look.  Don’t forget to trim around the driveway, stones, garden, trees, and especially at the sidewalk.
• No junk lying Around: Pack rats, you know who you are!  Put things in storage!  Don’t have old cars up on jacks or bikes and toys strewn everywhere!
• Beautify: Pick up leaves, weeds, branches and other debris; plant beautiful flowers (you can even buy pre-bloomed flowers and replant)
• Splash o’ Color: Paint the house, garage, and shutters in neutral, updated colors 
• Fix and Re-Finish: wooden decks or porch railings should be in tip-top shape 

 Shoot for Showroom Shine

Just imagine that you are trying to win a contest for “best looking home” in the Fairfax County area. Think model-home quality.  Keeping your home clean is very important.  If your time is limited you may wish to hire a local cleaning company to do the work for you.

You’ve got a Friend!

Thinking of putting your Fairfax County, Virginia home or condo on the real estate market?  To help you get the most out of your valuable Fairfax County VA homes for sale, request my FREE Seller’s Book or CD today! 

You can reach me by phone at 703-909-3939 or email Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com now!  I can help you with more tips and advice on selling your home or condo.  

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
709-909-3939

It’s time!  Out of all the Fairfax County VA homes for sale, you’ve found the perfect one for you and your family.  Your home has been in escrow and your loan is approved.  Now you’re ready to think about and prepare for your big moving day.

Some important considerations before you move:

• How soon will you be moving to Fairfax County?
• Will you be taking your furniture or disposing of it before the move?
• How will you transport furniture and belongings?
• Will you hire a moving company? 
• Or will you rent a moving van such as UHaul, and drive it to Fairfax County yourself?

Obviously, there is packing to do.  Whether you are renting or purchasing your current home, effort must be made to leave it clean and in good condition.

Don’t get overwhelmed and procrastinate until the last minute. On the other extreme, don’t try to get it all done in one weekend and exhaust yourself either.

Moving Prep Tips

• Schedule: Be sure and schedule your mover and if you’re moving yourself, schedule a moving van well in advance.
• What’s moving: You’ll need to decide what you’re going to take with you and what you’ll sell or donate to charity.
• Make a List: Before you get started, devise an organized plan of action.  Make sure you get it down on paper so it is removed from your weary mind!
• Enlist Help: Delegate as many tasks as possible.  Involve the whole family. Have each one write down the jobs they will be required to do.
• Time-management: Decide how much time should be spent daily to get ready for this move.
• Make it fun: Set up rewards for jobs well done. Preparing to relocate can become an exciting adventure rather than a nerve-racking job!
• Utilize Your Support System: Call a friend or family member outside your household for encouragement when things get crazy.
• Relax, relax, relax! 

Moving to a new home is a big job, but a rewarding one.  Once you’ve moved to your new residence you can start your new life, begin your new job and make new friends and acquaintances. 

Not ready to move quite yet?  If you’re in the market for Fairfax County VA homes for sale, and you need a highly motivated Fairfax County Virginia REALTOR®, I’d love to speak with you! 

I love nothing better than the trill of working with clients to help them find the perfect home with the amenities they long for.  I’ll help weed out what you won’t be interested in, so we can concentrate on the urban communities and Fairfax County VA homes for sale that will be right for you.

So, give me a call today at 703-909-3939 and we’ll get started searching for your next home.  Or drop me a quick email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com now!

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939

Home buyers often have the option of buying points to decrease the interest rate of their mortgage.  Although the appeal of having a lower interest rate sounds like a smart move, you need to make sure that you weigh all the factors before you decide to spring for the discount points.

Generally, the cost of a point is equal to 1% of your loan.  For example, buying a point for a $200,000 loan would cost $2,000.

The purchase of a point typically buys down the interest rate by 0.125%.  In other words, if your interest rate is 6.5%, this rate would be lowered to 6.375% after the purchase of one point.

The most important factor to consider is how long you plan on staying in the house.  If you plan on living in the house for five years, buying points probably does not make sense.

If you plan on staying in the house for the life of the loan, buying a point for a lower interest rate may save you money in the long run.

In order to calculate the potential savings of buying points, find a good online mortgage calculator and do the math for both the actual interest rate and the rate after buying points.  Don’t forget to factor in the money that you spend on the points.  You might be surprised at the difference, often it may not be enough to warrant the expense of buying the points.

One other factor to consider is that if you do buy down your interest rate, the money that you spend is tax deductible in the year that you purchase the property.

It’s important whnowen deciding whether or not to buy points to check the math from every angle.  This may be a great way to save some money – or you may find that it’s not worth the trouble or money after all.

Ready to purchase one of the Fairfax County VA homes for sale?  If so, please request my FREE Seller Book or CD at no obligation to you, now! You can learn the selling process from beginning to a successful end. 

Just contact me now!  Or call me direct at 703-909-3939 or drop me an email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com for more information about selling your home at the best price. 

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939

Relocating to another city or state can be more of a challenge than just moving across town. This is certainly true when you’re considering purchasing Alexandria VA condos or Alexandria VA homes for sale. 

So, before you decide to relocate to the Alexandria, Virginia area, ask yourself these questions:

• Are you planning to rent or purchase?
• Are you open to a single-family residence or condo living?
• Will you require an Alexandria Virginia real estate agent? 
• Do you know the local neighborhood communities in Alexandria?
• Are you aware of the distinct differences between communities?
• Do you have information about the Alexandria school system?

The Alexandria VA homes for sale choices can seem overwhelming at best.  There are many different types of homes and condos available in Alexandria.  Additionally, you’ll find various price ranges and urban communities to live in.  And each urban community has something unique to its own neighborhood.  Learn more about Alexandria, Virginia!

Here I Come To Save the Day!

There is much to consider before you are able to relocate to Alexandria, Virginia.  You’ll need to find an expert Alexandria, Virginia real estate agent that knows the area well.  Help is available to manage this life transition and make the way smoother for you.  That’s why I’m here! 

Once we’ve discussed your home or condo needs, you will feel a great sense of relief.  I’ll help you find the best neighborhood and property that fits your requirements and financial budget.  And I’ll help you negotiate the best deal!  Give me a call at 703-909-3939 or email Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com and let me do the stressing for you.

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939

When it comes to putting in a swimming pool, one thing to consider is whether or not this is a wise investment for you. In the real estate world of what-ifs and ever-threatening to burst bubbles, this is a no-brainer. If you’re thinking of selling your home soon, then do not invest in a pool for your Fairfax County VA homes for sale.

Most experts agree that homeowners do not get their money back when selling a home with a pool. Although an in-ground pool may increase the market value of a home by 15-25%, this is nothing compared to, say, a new garage, which increases the market value by 75-100%.

So when do you take the plunge and invest in a pool?

Ask yourself these important questions:

1. How long am I staying in the home? If you expect to live in the home for quite some time, your return on investment may be 100% — if you consider your own personal enjoyment a satisfactory return.
2. How much maintenance can I handle? Pool technology has come along way. Depending on the price you are willing to pay, automated water analysis and chemical dispensers make maintaining your pool a lot easier. However, there are skimmer baskets to clean, tiles to scrub, and the deck to hose down….
3. How much can I spend? In-ground pool prices range from $10,000-$40,000 dollars, but you also need to consider the cost of extra utilities such as electricity and water.
4.  What are Fairfax County code requirements for a pool? Insure you can meet these requirements before adding a pool.
5. Finding an Installer. How can I find a reputable custom pool, spa or hot tub installer in the Fairfax County area?
6.  Types of pools. What different types of pools are available to choose from?

If you decide to dive in – congratulations  – now get to work hunting for the ideal builder and let the digging begin!

Are you ready to add your home to the list of Fairfax County VA homes for sale? Need some advice on what to do to put your home or condo in tip-top shape to sell? Give me a call at 703-909-3939 or drop me an email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com today!

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com  
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com  
703-909-3939

Arlington, Virginia is a really exciting place to work, live and raise a family.  Homeowners of homes and condos in Arlington VA are fortunate to live in charming urban villages that are just a short commute into Washington, D.C. and the surrounding areas.  You’ll fall in love with Arlington’s top schools, easy access to great shopping, cultural events, activities galore, wonderful parks, top restaurants and a lively nightlife.   

Business is booming in Arlington where so many large corporations have their headquarters.  If you’re a government contractor or wish to work for a private sector contracting firm, there are myriads of businesses to choose from.  The U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Pentagon are also located here. 

Urban Villages in Arlington County
If you’re thinking about relocating to Arlington County, there are many charming urban villages that provide owners of homes and condos in Arlington VA a peaceful, relaxing lifestyle away from the busy bustle of Washington D.C., yet close enough to enjoy all that the area has to offer.  Search for homes or condos in Arlington VA now!

You can find homes and condos in Arlington VA in these urban Arlington County Villages:

• Ballstone
• Clarendon
• Columbia Pike
• Court House
• Crystal City
• Lee Highway
• Pentagon City
• Rosslyn
• Virginia Square
• Westover

In 2006 CnnMoney.com ranked Arlington, Virginia as one of the “Most Educated Places to Live.”     Arlington has some of the top rated schools in the country and the county spends about half of their revenue on education.  Learn more about the Arlington Public School System.

Transportation
Getting around is easy, you can leave your car at home if you choose because Arlington has one of the best public transportation systems in the country.   Just hop on the local Arlington Transit System (ART) or the Orange, Blue and Yellow lines of the Washington Metro.

If you need to commute by air, Arlington is home to the Ronald Regan Washington National Airport.  For those people who would rather drive, there are many easily accessible freeways and highways in and out of Arlington and the greater Washington D.C. area.

Homes and Condos in Arlington VA
If you own homes or condos in Arlington VA you’ll fall in love with the laid-back lifestyle in your urban village while enjoying the excitement of Washington D.C., and all it has to offer residents.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home or condo in any of Arlington’s urban villages, you’ve come to the right place.  I would love to talk with you about purchasing homes or condos in Arlington VA and your needs and priorities.  I’ll help you find the best deal and negotiate the best price and terms.  Contact me today!  

Do you need introduced to the exciting Arlington, Virginia area?  Give me a call today at 703-909-3939.  Or drop me an email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com now!

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939

Finding the right mortgage to buy Fairfax County VA homes for sale can be confusing and stressful.  When preparing for what is most likely the biggest financial transaction of your life, you want to make sure you do it right.

One type of mortgage you may be considering is an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM).  With an ARM, your interest rate generally starts out lower for a set period of time and then is periodically adjusted.  It could be adjusted monthly, semi-annually, annually or adjusted in 3 or 5 years.  This rate adjustment leads to the possibility of your monthly mortgage payment going down (very good) or up (not good at all). 

Interest rates are made up of two important factors: 

1. Index (gauge of inflation) that the lender uses.  This index can go up or down with the general movement of interest rates. 
2. Margin (lender’s cost plus profit) this is added to the index to get a mortgage interest rate.

As the index goes up (inflation) your mortgage rate will go up accordingly.  However, today’s ARMs have pre-set maximum caps in place to protect borrowers.  These caps set the limit on not only upward movement, but also downward movement.   

An ARM may seem like a risky venture given the fluctuation of interest rates over the years, but if you are well informed, an ARM may be the right choice for Fairfax County VA homes for sale buyers.

When should you seriously consider an adjustable rate mortgage?

You aren’t planning on staying in your home for very long.  Interest rate adjustments for an ARM occur periodically based on the type of ARM you have.  For example, if you receive a 5 year ARM, the rate can be adjusted every five years.  If you plan on moving before the end of the adjustment period, this may be the loan for you.

You want a lower interest rate.  Most lenders offer lower interest rates initially for ARMs, which may make you eligible for a larger loan.
 
You are willing to take a risk.  Sometimes ARMs result in lower average interest rates over the life of the loan.  However, you need to be aware if interest rates go up, it could increase your overall mortgage payment.  Be sure to ask your lender what Index they use, how it’s behaved in the past and where you can find it published.

Although an adjustable rate mortgage may seem a bit like rolling the dice, a well-researched ARM with a reputable lender can sometimes save you money in the long run.

Today 15 and 30 year fixed mortgage interest rates are low.  Be sure and check on a fixed rate mortgage before you look at ARMs, since a fixed rate may be lower over the life of your loan.

Now that you have more information about available mortgage options, if you’re considering purchasing Fairfax County VA homes for sale, give me a call at 703-909-3939.  I’ll help you find your perfect home and help you obtain it for the best price and terms.  Drop me an email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com now!
  
Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939

If you’ve just purchased a new construction condo or home and want to add some eye-popping details, wainscoting might be the answer.  Wainscoting can add value and warmth to your home or condos in Arlington VA.

Few homes today are built with the same attention to detail as in the past.  Towering white walls and a lack of architectural details are the norm in most new construction – but this is a problem easily solved.

One simple way to evoke a classic look that adds richness and warmth is through the use of wainscoting.  This traditional (used regularly in the 18th and 19th centuries) paneled decorating element is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and can turn a boring wall into something extraordinary. 

When painted a contrasting color to the wall above, wainscoting can make a dramatic statement.  If painted a similar color as the wall it frames, the details of decorative molding and trim can make the space filled with subtle charm.

Wainscot works in many different decorating schemes.  For example, simple yet stylish paneled wainscoting in a dining room, installed at chair height, lends an Old World, sophisticated feel to the space, while beadboard wainscot paneling in a baby nursery, however, lends a cozy, cottage look to the room.

Better yet, the addition of wainscoting is something that can easily be tackled by an aspiring do-it-yourselfer. 

No matter what the age of your home or condos in Arlington VA, there is simply no reason to live without rich architectural details.  Obtainable on almost any budget, these simple additions to your home or condos in Arlington VA will add instant value and give you the best of both worlds – new construction that is chock full of traditional charm.

Need some advice on updating your home or condos in Arlington VA?  Ready to buy or sell condos in Arlington VA?  Give me a call at 703-909-3939 or email Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com today!

Steve Hawkins
Long and Foster REALTORS®
Springfield, Virginia
www.HomeSearchWebsite.com
Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com
703-909-3939