Fairfax County VA Home Search Website Blog

May 5, 2008

Communicating with Your Buyer’s Agent when Purchasing Alexandria VA Homes for Sale

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:55 am

When you are considering purchasing a condo or Alexandria VA homes for sale, selecting the right buyer agent is important.  You’ll be spending quite a bit of time with a real estate agent and good communication is the key ingredient to a successful client/agent relationship.  Having a REALTOR® who will listen to your concerns and needs as well as communicate effectively is a “must” for a successful real estate transaction. 

So how can you determine if the buyer’s agent you are considering hiring is going to be communicative or be a “silent” partner?  Here are some initial questions to ask when meeting with an agent to find out if the person is right for you:

  • Will the agent take the time to find out what type of home you’re looking for; what community you want to live in; the price range that fits your budget; and what amenities you would like to have?
  • What is the time frame the agent will inform you of new listings which meet your criteria?
  • Will the agent suggest you get pre-approved for a mortgage loan?
  • Does the agent have an assistant or another REALTOR® who can help you if your agent is unavailable?
  • How quickly will the agent or assistant return emails and/or phone calls?
  • Does the agent coordinate well with all parties including other agents?
  • Will the REALTOR® provide you with some helpful advice about financing and selecting a mortgage lender? 
  • How often will the REALTOR® give you a status report on the progress of your purchase?

All of these items are crucial to the successful communication between a buyer and their agent.  Good REALTORS® should be able to answer all of the above questions to your satisfaction.  And they should listen to you when discussing what you’re looking for in a real estate transaction.

Finding an experienced and knowledgeable Alexandria VA homes for sale REALTOR® can take time, but it’s worth the effort!  An agent must not only communicate well with you, but also with other agents.  One who listens and acts as your ally, is a true asset!

If you’re considering making an Alexandria VA homes for sale purchase and would like to talk with a buyer’s agent who is a great communicator and is driven to get you results, I’d love to speak with you.  I won’t stop until we find the perfect property for you!  Contact me now!  Or call me at 703-909-3939.  I look forward to hearing from you.

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

April 24, 2008

Moving to your Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale You Just Purchased

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Relocation — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:23 am

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

April 21, 2008

Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale - Is Buying Points to Lower Your Interest Rate a Good Idea?

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:10 am

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

April 17, 2008

Relocating: Finding Alexandria VA Homes for Sale

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Relocation — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 10:13 am

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

April 10, 2008

Purchase Homes and Condos in Arlington VA and Enjoy an Exciting Lifestyle!

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Relocation — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 8:24 am

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 Comments (0)

April 7, 2008

Mortgage Minder: Purchasing Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale

Filed under: Buyers, Financing, Real Estate — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:51 am

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

April 3, 2008

Adding Vintage Charm: Installing Wainscoting to your Condos in Arlington VA

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Sellers — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:23 am

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

March 31, 2008

Advantages of Newly Constructed Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Relocation — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 7:48 am

Are you considering purchasing the home of your dreams in Fairfax County, VA?  A new construction home may be just what you’re looking for, although it might be somewhat frustrating to go through the motions of having to choose from the many Fairfax County VA homes for sale. 

Even with an excellent and qualified Fairfax County VA real estate agent, going to showing after showing can be downright exhausting for you and your family—not to mention time-consuming.

What if there was a way to get exactly what you wanted even from the existing Fairfax County VA homes for sale currently on the market?  Good news: there is!

The road to the perfect Fairfax County VA home for you and your family lies in a little nugget we like to call new construction!

Benefits of a Newly Constructed Fairfax County VA Home

  • No hidden problems: New builds lack flaws, blemishes, patchy fix-up jobs and other ticking time bombs found in older homes (due to wear and tear over time)
  • Updated construction: They contain the latest materials and utilize modern building techniques
  • Kitchen and bath: These crucial rooms always feature today’s cutting edge designs and fixtures
  • Modern Look and Feel: Overall layout and design are updated throughout, without the extra cost associated with sellers who have invested time and money in renovations
  • Customizability: Many builders are flexible enough to add a room or move a wall
  • Newer neighborhood:  New construction homes are usually built in brand new subdivisions
  • Designed for interaction:  New construction homes are more open and accessible to family members for healty interaction
  • Home warranty:  Most builders provide at least a 1 year home warranty 

The Sky Is the Limit

Another effect of a truly new home is the impact on your well-being each day.  Whether it’s the smell of fresh wood or the thrill of having your home designed just the way you want it, a new home can be just the ticket! 

Think about how nice it feels to test drive a new vehicle you’ve been considering.  Imagine, all these years you may have limited yourself to pre-owned homes.  What if you did that with your vehicle purchases?  How restricting would that feel?  Very!

New builds open up a whole world of choices, not only in finding a perfectly up-to-date home, but also in having your dream home made to order—every detail contoured specially to the whims and desires of you and your family.

Finding Your Dream Home

Now that you’re ready to find out what your choices are in terms of Fairfax County VA homes for sale including new builds, call me today at 703-909-3939 or write me a quick note at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com.  It will be my pleasure to walk you through the plethora of options, and develop the perfect short list of Fairfax County VA homes for you and your family to choose from.

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

March 24, 2008

Great Place to Live – Fairfax County Virginia Where You can find Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate, Relocation — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 9:04 am

Fairfax County, Virginia, is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family.  Being within the greater Washington area, there are a multitude of opportunities for new businesses.  Fairfax County has thousands of energized companies that include numerous technology companies and federal government contracting companies.  If you’re considering relocating to the area and you are looking for Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale, consider Fairfax County.

Here are just a few of the benefits of living in Fairfax County:

  • Wonderful selection of Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale 
  • Outstanding Fairfax County Public Schools
  • Robust economy
  • Prosperous community with a average 2007 household income of $100,318
  • Well educated neighbors
  • Miles of walking and biking trails
  • Myriad of cultural activities and fine arts to visit
  • Close to National Monuments
  • Shopping galore
  • Easy access to major highways

In 2007 Fairfax County, Virginia, reclaimed its former position as the richest county in America.  And Fairfax Station, which is one of the communities in Fairfax County, was ranked by CNNMoney.com as one of the “Best Places to Retire.”   

Yes, life in Fairfax County, Virginia, is good! 

Whether you’re looking for that special restaurant for a romantic dinner for two, tickets to the theatre, superb shopping, affordable or upscale Fairfax County VA homes for sale, you’ll find it all in Fairfax County.

Home Buyers
If you’re thinking about purchasing Fairfax County VA homes for sale, I’d love to talk with you.  I can show you great values for your real estate dollars and get you in the best neighborhood for your family.  Give me a call at 703-909-3939 or email Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com today!

Home Sellers
If you have Fairfax County real estate you would like to sell, I’ll provide you with a FREE Market Evaluation of your home’s worth.  Just call me at 703-909-3939 now!

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

March 13, 2008

Home Inspections: Fairfax County, VA, Homes for Sale - Know When to Say No

Filed under: Buyers, Real Estate — Northern Virginia Real Estate Agent @ 11:20 am

Several years ago, there was a couple I knew who were in the market to buy Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale.  They looked unsuccessfully until one day their REALTOR® took them to see a home they instantly fell in love with.  So much so, they refused to take note of the numerous needed repairs which popped up on their inspection report.  One year and many thousands of dollars later, the couple’s dream house had turned into a nightmare, causing them to put the house back on the market, take a serious loss, and almost file bankruptcy.

We’ve all heard stories like the one above.  People fall in love with houses all the time and decide to look beyond the obvious problems and take a chance.  Unfortunately, those chances usually don’t turn out in the buyer’s favor, many times leaving homeowners wishing they had just said no.

So when do you turn down an otherwise spectacular home? 

  • Structural Damage
    No house is going to have a perfectly clean inspection report.  That’s to be expected.  However, there are things which can come up on an inspection report that spell trouble.  Big trouble!  Structural problems such as a cracked foundation are expensive to repair and can lead to sinking walls and buckling floors.  They can also greatly reduce what you’re able to resell a house for.  Think long and hard about making a purchase which involves a lot of costly repairs.
  • Wood Destroying Insects
    Depending on where you live, wood destroying insects such as termites might be par for the course.  What isn’t par for the course (along with being quite costly) is repairing extensive damage done to homes by wood destroying insects.  If an insect problem has gone on for a long period of time without anything being done, Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale can have numerous problems such as structural damage.  Think twice before purchasing a home with extensive insect damage.
  • Poor Grading
    Yards generally slop in a fashion which carries water away from a house.  If, however, your inspection report shows your yard’s grading to be prone to carry water toward your home and you live in an area with heavy rainfall, you should find out the cost of having your yard regarded by a professional.  If the cost is high, you might consider passing on the house.

 When looking for a home, try to use your head more than your heart.  The home you love may seem perfect but a home inspection might uncover some serious flaws.  Talk to your REALTOR® about your home inspection report and find out what items are low cost repairs and what items are deal breakers. Even if a seller is willing to “fix” a major problem, if the long term chance is that the problem will reoccur or negative residual effects are possible, it might be best to say “next”.

It’s important to have a real estate agent you can trust!  If you are thinking of purchasing Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale and would like to talk with an expert, give me a call today at 703-909-3939 or email Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com now.  As your REALTOR®, you can count on me to point out any potential problems with a property we’re looking at as well as the good points.

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

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