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

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

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

You might think that a Fairfax County VA Homes for Sale garage door is a garage door is a garage door, but you’d be wrong. 

There are so many different types and styles of garage doors available on the market today, the choices are almost overwhelming.  It’s important to note, however, that even a lower end new garage door can add as much as 4% to the overall value of your home.  And the added curb appeal that this simple update can offer is huge.

So, what kind of garage doors are available?  You name it.  If your home, for example, is built to resemble a Tuscan villa, there are beautiful custom made wooden garage doors to choose.  The right manufacturer can help you design garage doors that have a rustic appeal and look like they just came out of an Italian carpenter’s shop.

If it is classic cottage charm you’re after, consider white vintage-looking doors with a row of grilled windows that look like they’ve been taken off an old-fashioned carriage house.  These types of doors look great on a variety of home styles from bungalows to mansions and are more popular in today’s homes.

Of course, if you choose to mount custom-made wood doors, keep in mind the maintenance involved.  Wood requires restaining and repainting, while a stainless steel or aluminum door requires much less maintenance, and can often be easier on your wallet.

Whether you are building a home or just want to spruce up your old one, your options in garage doors and garage door hardware are practically limitless.  For every home and every budget, an updated or custom made garage door can add instant curb appeal and value to your home.

Are you considering updating your current home in preparation for selling it?  In today’s real estate market it’s more important than ever to have your home in tip-top-shape.  Adding new garage doors is a minor investment, but one that can pay off handsomely for you.  If you have questions or would like some free advice on preparing your Fairfax County VA homes for sale, I’d love to talk with you.  Call me at 703-909-3939 or email me at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com.    

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

Letting an army of people swarm your house on an otherwise relaxing Sunday afternoon may sound like a nightmare, but don’t worry – it’s just an open house.  Often a well-planned, well-timed Fairfax County VA homes for sale open house is just what you need to get a contract into your hands, so take a deep breath and get ready!

Here are a few Dos and Don’ts as you prepare for your open house:

• DO remove your pets.  Leave animals with a friend or in a kennel until the open house is over – and don’t forget to address lingering pet odors.
• DON’T stick around.  Do not plan on being present during your open house.  Let your experienced, professional REALTOR® do the talking for you.
• DO let the sun shine in!  Open windows and drapes before the open house – this will give your home an airy feeling and often make rooms feel larger to prospective buyers.
• DO turn on interior lights.  Go through every room in your home and make sure there are plenty of lights on – this makes the home show better and look more appealing to buyers.
• DON’T air your dirty laundry.  Hang fresh towels in the bathroom, toss the damp kitchen sponge, and stow any dirty laundry in the washing machine. Seeing dirty laundry in a home has a psychological effect on buyers – plus, it’s gross!
• DO follow the advice of real estate experts who suggest a vase of fresh flowers and/or a bowl of fresh fruit left out as you prepare for open house.  The presence of these items also has a psychological effect on buyers – only this time it’s a good one.
• Do bake some cookies if you have time before the showing, and leave them out on a counter.  This will make your house smell like home to potential buyers!

Good luck as you prepare for your open house.  Remember, the invasion will be quick and painless and hopefully will result in a fantastic offer.

If you would like to have an experienced Fairfax County VA REALTOR® sell your home, please give me a call now at 703-909-3939.  Been looking at Fairfax County VA homes for sale online?  If you’re ready to look at some homes or condos now, or you haven’t found the RIGHT home yet, please email me at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com or call me at 703-909-3939 today so we can get started in finding the home of your dreams!

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

Although there is an expense to hiring one of the Alexandria VA REALTORS® to sell Alexandria VA homes for sale, you may find that it is well worth the cost.  Perhaps you have friends or relatives who have been trying to influence you to sell your Alexandria VA home on your own.

Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of selling your Alexandria, VA, home with the help of an Alexandria VA REALTOR® versus doing it by yourself.

Financial Investment

Usually your Alexandria VA REALTOR® will charge a certain percentage of the sale price of your Alexandria VA home. In order to feel that you haven’t lost money on the sale, you might have to increase the sale price of your home.

Which method seems most advantageous when you consider finances?

An inflated price might discourage prospective buyers and prolong the sale of your home.  Financially, it seems a definite advantage to sell your home yourself. However, you have to consider the cost of advertising the sale of Alexandria VA homes for sale. 

How valuable is Your Time?

Consider how much time and effort must be invested in putting on Open Houses to sell your Alexandria VA home.   The time involved with advertising Open Houses alone will cost you many hours away from your career and family.  Contacting potential buyers to invite them to these Open Houses eats up more valuable hours.  And answering all of their questions when they do call you back! 

When you hire a qualified Alexandria VA REALTOR®, you do not have to sacrifice all those hours.  Instead, you can spend that time with family, working in your chosen career, or staging your current Alexandria VA home in anticipation of its sale.  Your Alexandria VA REALTOR® will take care of all the time-consuming details.

Definite advantage of hiring a Alexandria VA REALTOR®

Once someone makes an offer on your home, you meet with your Alexandria VA REALTOR® to discuss the offer and decide whether or not you will accept it.  Assuming you accept, your job is simply to sign papers and receive the proceeds from the sale of your home.  Without an agent, you are really on your own, totally confused and exhausted!

I would love to handle the sale of your Alexandria VA home.  I’ll take care of those time-consuming details and the advertising of your Alexandria VA homes for sale.  Contact me today at 703-909-3939 or Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com and let’s get that Alexandria, VA, house sold!

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

When you are in the process of buying a Fairfax County, VA homes for sale, you’ll need a home inspection.  However, the home inspection process can often be the cause of great stress, especially if you have your heart set on the home in question.
 
But when the home inspection report reveals defects (as many do), what do you do next?  How do you know what to expect the seller to repair?  What is minor and what is major? 

Keep these points in mind as you review your home inspection report and consider what to ask of your seller:

• If the home inspector has earmarked a feature of the house as needing “replacement in the future” but is in otherwise good working condition, the seller is not expected to replace or give an allowance for this replacement.  For example, if a 20-year roof is in year 18, you, as the buyer, should be prepared to pay to replace that roof when the time comes.
• If hidden defects are found, remember that they were “hidden”, not just from you, but from the seller as well.  Chances are you will have some negotiating power if the defects are major, but don’t assume that the sellers are being dishonest.
• Turn to your experienced real estate agent.  This part of the home buying process is where having a licensed professional on your side is invaluable.  Your REALTOR® will know which repairs to push for and which to ignore, and in most cases will able to negotiate a mutually agreeable solution.

Remember, while a home inspection report may reveal defects, unless you are buying a new home, you should expect some wear and tear.  But if the defects prove to be major, you’ll be glad to have an experienced REALTOR® on your side.

Are you ready to purchase a Fairfax County, VA homes for sale?  Or thinking of selling your current home?  If so, give me a call now 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

There’s no other time in your life when you’ll likely have to sign more paperwork than when you buy or sell a Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale – but one form in particular can protect a buyer and a seller as they work toward the closing date – the real estate disclosure statement. 

Although disclosure laws vary from state to state, in many states, sellers are required by law to complete a real estate transfer disclosure statement.

The disclosure form should tell potential buyers what is actually in the house.  For example, there would be a list of all appliances in the kitchen that will come with the house or condo, any appliances such as washer/dryer, water softener, etc. will be on this list. 

Also listed will be any safety features, from home alarm systems to smoke detectors.

The disclosure form might also indicate the presence of a TV antenna, satellite dish, garage, even an automatic garage door opener is listed if there is one.

Perhaps the most important section of the disclosure form lists the major operating systems and structural elements of the home.  Here you will find notation of any leaks in the roof, any known defects in the heating/cooling systems, any known structural damage – and what if anything has been done to repair these defects.

Of course, it’s imperative that you have a home inspection to verify the disclosure statement.  Remember, that if an inspector finds any deficiencies that are not listed on your disclosure, chances are these problems were hidden from the seller as well.

The real estate transfer disclosure statement is the first step to insure that a buyer knows what they are getting.  It is also a document that can protect a seller from any legal problems down the line, especially if the problem involves something that you disclosed on the form. 

As a licensed and experienced REALTOR®, whether you’ve listed your home with me or purchasing a Fairfax County, VA homes for sale, I’ll answer any questions you might have about the seller disclosure form.  I’ll do my best to make sure all parties are protected.

Are you looking for Fairfax County, VA homes for sale?  I’d love to help you find the home of your dreams and help you get the best price and terms.  Call me now at 703-909-3939.

If you own Fairfax County, VA property, give me a call today at 703-909-3939 or email me at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com.  I’ll be happy to meet with you and develop a great marketing plan! 

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

Pricing a home properly can sometimes feel like a guessing game.  Determining what buyers are willing to pay, how much homes in your area are selling for and the overall state of the Fairfax County, VA homes for sale market, can make the process of coming up with that “magic number” a difficult task. 

Because 51% of homes sell in the first four weeks, it is important to price a home properly at the onset in order to avoid a price adjustment.  A knowledgeable agent will do extensive research on homes in the Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale area that are of comparable size and condition, that have recently sold or are on the market.  Based on what these numbers are, a good REALTOR® will then recommend a sales range for a seller to consider pricing his or her home so that a price adjustment will not (hopefully) be necessary. 

If, however, your Fairfax County, Virginia real estate agent has thoroughly marketed your home and you still have not received any offers, it may be time to consider a price adjustment.  Signs that it might be time to drop your listing price include:

• The market has shifted to a buyer’s market 
• Home has been on the market longer than four weeks
• Very few showings
• Negative feedback from potential buyers at showings

If a price adjustment has been made and there is still very little interest, another price adjustment may be in order.  Or, it may be market conditions, such as time of the year and a downturn in the local economy may have created a slow market.  If any of these are the case, your agent might suggest the option of taking your home off the market until conditions improve.

Are you considering putting your home on the market?  I’d love to talk with you about selling your home.  I’ll provide you with a current FREE Comparative Analysis Report of your home’s worth and other Fairfax County, VA homes for sale in your area.  I’ll help you determine the best price for your property so you can obtain the most net.  I will also give you tips on how to best “stage” your home to sell quickly.  Give me a call today at 703-909-3939 or send me an email at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com.  I look forward to speaking with you!

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

When preparing Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale, you need to adopt this mantra:  “I will spend as little money as possible… and get the most bang for my buck.”  You’ll find a little goes a long way when it comes to making a house shine in the eyes of prospective buyers. 

Below is a checklist of super-cheap fixes that can maximize the appeal of your Fairfax County VA homes for sale:

• Change out the hardware.  New kitchen and bathroom cabinet knobs or pulls are inexpensive and can instantly update a tired room.
• Keep it neutral.  Paint any out-of-the-ordinary colors a nice shade of neutral.  Again, this is just a small investment that can equal a BIG return.
• Control the waterworks.  Check under sinks and around faucets for evidence of leaks or parts that might need replaced.  Often minor repairs are necessary that can be handled easily by the homeowner.
• Keep it clean.  Your Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale needs to be spotless from top to bottom.  If you have a busy schedule this can sound like an impossible task.  If it is heavy duty cleaning you need, then consider hiring a professional cleaning service.  Often this is a very budget-friendly task that is well worth the money. 
• Make potential buyers want to come and stay.  Think of your Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale as a bed and breakfast (yes, you have to use your imagination here).  What would a guest expect to see?  Fresh, clean towels, nicely made beds, fragrant flowers and an immaculate bathroom.  You can leave the mints off the pillows though.

 Cheap fixes are what you are after when preparing your Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale – you want to walk away with as much money from the transaction as possible.  So use your imagination, whenever possible and… keep your pocketbook closed! 

Are you thinking of selling your Fairfax County, VA home?  I would love to provide you with a FREE market analysis of your current home’s worth and send you a helpful CD.   And, I’ll help you net the most $$$$ from the sale of your Fairfax County, VA, homes for sale.  Give me a call today at 703-909-3939 or, email me at Steve@HomeSearchWebsite.com. 

If you’re looking for a Fairfax County VA homes for sale to purchase, visit my website to see all my featured listings and much more.  Or give me a call at 703-909-3939 now! 

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