CHARLOTTESVILLE SOLUTIONS http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com Charlottesville Real Estate Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:07:06 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 noCharlottesville Real Estate Charlottesville Real Estate 2011 Market Report http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/T6J6TuYTQ10/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/charlottesville-real-estate-2011-market-report-from-caar/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:09:52 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/?p=12842 Our Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors has just released the latest report showing stats for sales in our area, Year ending 2011.

This is the best report format we have seen in quite sometime from CAAR and it shows great details that we talk about all year. Remember to discuss specific market conditions with your Realtor.

Charlottesville Area 4th Quarter 2011 Highlights:

  • Median sales price for the region is down 0.4% over last quarter and 3.6% from the Q4‐2010 to $240,000
  • New listings were down 20.3% from the same period last year.
  • Homes took an average 9 days longer to sell compared to Q4‐2010 with average Days on Market(DOM) of 161.
  • Pending sales rose 19.3% over same time 2010 from 456 in Q4 2010 to 544 in Q4 2011.
  • The median sales price for 4th

Quarter sales year‐over‐year declined  3.75% from $249,000 to $240,000.

Charlottesville Area 2011 Year‐End Highlights:

  • Top three areas for sales in 2011 were Albemarle, Charlottesville, and Fluvanna counties.
  • The most affordable areas in our market were Greene, Louisa, and Fluvanna counties.
  • Overall sales were down a nominal 1.5% from 2010, though up slightly from 2009 levels.
  • Active inventory to close 2011 is down 7% from year‐end 2010.
  • Days on Market stable since 2010, half of homes sold in 86 days or less in 2011 and average DOM was 149 in 2011.
  • Median Sales price for 2011 of $245,000 was down 3.9% from year‐end 2010.

2011 Market Overview – Home Sales for 2011

There were 2,300 homes sold in the Charlottesville area in 2011, which was down 1.5% (‐36 sales) from 2010. Albemarle (+2.7%) and Charlottesville (+5.3%) showed an increase in sales for the year. All other areas were down from last year: Fluvanna (‐15.1%), Louisa (‐12.0%), Nelson (‐6.1%), and Green (‐3.3%).

Sales of detached homes in the area were down 1.4% from 2010 to 1,733. This is 3.8% higher than the 1,669 detached homes sold in 2009. There were 567 attached homes (condos and townhomes) sold in 2011, 1.4% lower than 2010 and 13.0% off the 5‐year average levels.

Foreclosed property sales were up 10.4% to 328 compared to 297 sales in 2010.  Foreclosures represented a 14.3% share of all sales in 2011, up from a 12.7% share last year. Short sales nearly doubled year‐over‐year, from 76 sales in 2010 to 112 in 2011. Fortunately in the interest of pricing stabilization, short sale transactions only represented 3.3% of the market while traditional sales, or those transactions not involving a foreclosure or short sale, accounted for 80.9% of MLS sales.

Days on Market (DOM)

The length of time a property is on the market before sale is very much affected by the amount of supply compared to demand, and real estate professionals understand the critical role pricing plays. While the market has varied throughout the past several years, the average days on market (DOM) prior to sale has remained relatively stable the past two years, increasing only one day from the 2010 average to 148 days.

Half of the homes sold in 2011 were on the market for 86 days or less, up slightly from the 82 median DOM of 2010. Attached homes sold an average 10 days faster than detached homes, with a DOM of 140 in 2011.

Home Prices

Home prices declined somewhat in 2011, with the amount of the decline varying from significant to nominal depending upon the county. The median prices listed below are the middle of the market of properties that sold, indicating what buyers were willing/able to pay. Overall, the $245,000 median home price (including attached homes) represented a 3.9% decrease compared to last year. The areas with higher sales volume like Fluvanna (‐2.5%), Albemarle (‐4.0%), and Charlottesville (‐6.1%) saw more moderate decreases, while the remaining counties experienced slightly higher pricing drops:  Greene (‐8.6%), Nelson (‐13.5%), and Louisa (‐15.6%).

The median price for detached homes in Greater Charlottesville fell 3.6% from 2010 to $270,000 while the median price for attached homes was down 10.1 %  year‐over‐year to $191,000. Foreclosed listings had a median price of $130,000, or half the $265,000 median for traditional property sales. The traditional sale median price was down only 2.8% from 2010 and actually represents an increase of 1.2% from the 2009 level.  The $211,000 median price for short sales represents a 9.0% year‐over‐year increase.

Caar Year End 2011

# of Views : 547]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/charlottesville-real-estate-2011-market-report-from-caar/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/charlottesville-real-estate-2011-market-report-from-caar/ 2012 Charlottesville Real Estate Assessments http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/oslwg8Vcgr8/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/2012-charlottesville-real-estate-assessments/#comments Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:55:39 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/?p=12788 2012 Charlottesville Tax Assessment2012 Charlottesville Real Estate Assessments will be release by the end of January. At least this is what Albemarle County told me when I called to get a specific date. There are 2 areas that have the greatest impact on Assessments in our area. The city of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, where Charlottesville is located.

2012 Charlottesville Real Estate Assessment

The City of Charlottesville says that the released assessments are “an estimate of fair market value as of January 1 each year, based on property sales for the previous calendar year” Here is the Charlottesville City Assessor website.

2012 Albemarle County Real Estate Assessment

Albemarle County, who I called a few days ago, states that  “The County of Albemarle appraises real estate every year based on fair market value as provided by the Virginia State Code”.

They go on to say that “The appraisal staff in conducting their field appraisal work considers adjacent property sales, condition of property, zoning stipulations, and other miscellaneous factors that could be an influence on the market value of the property”  Here is the Albemarle County Real Estate Tax Website.

Charlottesville Home Prices

Charlottesville Market Reports show that sales are slightly increasing year over year, however Median Sales Prices are down in the City of Charlottesville and up slightly in Albemarle County.

There are a lot of factors that are included to get Median prices from our MLS so your actually numbers may not follow these trends. I suspect that 2012 Real Estate Assessments will be, for the most part, flat to slightly down from 2011.

Charlottesville Real Estate Tax Rates

Our real estate tax rates are based on Assessments:

  • City of Charlottesville is $.95 per $100 of Assessed value.
  • Albemarle County is $.742 per $100 of Assessed value.
Keep in mind that the reason for Tax Assessments is to create a base to generate revenue for the area the home are located in as well as funding for schools.

Charlottesville Home Buyer

Many Charlottesville Buyers look to Assessments as a means of valuing a home and in many cases this can be a mistake. Using them as a guide can make sense, but since the data is generated at a point in time prior to the January release the information is not timely enough.

Getting a current Market Analyses of a home from your Charlottesville Agent will give you a better idea of a homes true value.

# of Views : 434]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/2012-charlottesville-real-estate-assessments/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/2012-charlottesville-real-estate-assessments/ New Owner for Keswick Hall http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/eFZswFLvvnA/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/new-owner-for-keswick-hall/#comments Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:11:57 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/?p=12690 Keswick Hall, a luxury hotel and Country Club located in Albemarle county,  will soon have a new owner, according to news stories released today.

Keswick Hall at Keswick Estate

Keswick Hall is currently owned by Orient Express Hotels, which is based in the United Kingdom and owns other high-end resort spots around the world as well as the Orient Express Train System.

CCA Industries, the holding company for the business interests of William Goodwin, Jr., a well known figure in the Richmond area, will reportedly be the new owner as of  the end of the month.

Goodwin is also the owner of other luxury properties including The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond and golf resorts at Kiawah Island, South Carolina and Hilton Head.

NBC 29 reported that an email was sent to the members of the Keswick Club, “Orient-Express Hotels LTD., the owners of Keswick Hall, Keswick Club and Keswick Estate, has entered into a sale and purchase agreement to sell the property to an undisclosed buyer.”

A Daily Progress Article confirmed with Orient-Express that Keswick Hall  has been sold, but the company declined to release the name of the buyer.

Example of Homes in Keswick Estate presented by Charlottesville Solutions.

# of Views : 615]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/new-owner-for-keswick-hall/feed/ 9 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2012/01/new-owner-for-keswick-hall/ Understanding Charlottesville Real Estate http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/XCyBJI5ZW48/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/understanding-charlottesville-real-estate/#comments Tue, 27 Dec 2011 22:31:38 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=11677 Understanding Charlottesville Real Estate, Buying a Home in Charlottesville Virginia, Charlottesville Home StylesIt is funny to me that so many people are discussing Charlottesville Real Estate like it is something special. I think all areas are special or at least unique.

The truth is that to fully understand Charlottesville Real Estate, you must have something to compare it to. Since I am from California, I often compare it to that area of the country. But I am thinking on a larger scale after my recent trip.

Comparing Charlottesville Homes

First of all the homes from one area of our country to another are totally different. Different climates require different building materials just to handle temperatures, not to mention moisture. Each area also has a unique style of homes. As an example, think of Arizona and how the homes would be different from homes on the East Coast.

Viewing Charlottesville Homes

When I am viewing Charlottesville homes I often have tunnel vision. Let me explain. We have a certain home style in our area that have that East Coast Charm. When I talk to people in Colorado, Texas or Florida I sometimes forget that they are not used to seeing our typical style of homes. My eyes opened a little wider after our Christmas trip.

Albemarle Real Estate, Understanding Charlottesville Real Estate, Buying a Home in Charlottesville Virginia

The Trip

We drove from Virginia to Louisiana for Christmas this year and one of the benefits of the trip was that I was able to see many different styles of homes in various states. In Tennessee we say some log homes that would flabbergast Davy Crockett.

In Georgia and Mississippi we saw homes typical of the old South. Think of Gone with the Wind. In Louisiana we saw a lot of ranch style brick homes and a wide range of farm houses. And this is just a few different states so imagine the diversity of home styles we have in our entire country.

Understanding Charlottesville Real Estate

While there are many different Charlottesville Home Styles to choose from, many people do not see the same styles they are accustomed to living in when relocating from other states. So Charlottesville home buyers need to learn about our home styles and let go of their preconceived notions of what homes need to look like.

# of Views : 638]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/understanding-charlottesville-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/understanding-charlottesville-real-estate/ Selling A Charlottesville Home Is Easy http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/5Td40V52nok/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/selling-a-charlottesville-home-is-easy/#comments Sat, 17 Dec 2011 01:58:18 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=11564 Selling a home in Charlottesville VASelling a Charlottesville Home is easy, at least that is what some people say. All you have to do is put a For Sale sign in the yard and 30 days later you are at the closing table. Ya Right :)

Lets look at the choices that sellers have:

Charlottesville For Sale By Owner

I still see some owners trying to sell a home without a Charlottesville Agent. Some people are placing their most valuable asset for sale without a professional. Well this is usually a disaster. Most people do not have the time, resources, skills or technical capability to fully advertise a property as a FSBO.  Also, sellers often have unrealistic expectations of the market value of their home.

Most home owners will buy and sell one or two homes in their lifetime.  This does not compare with the experience of a qualified Charlottesville Listing Agent. 

Charlottesville Broker

Charlottesville Discount Broker

People are selling a very valuable item, their home, and they want to use a discount service?
The agent will do some of the work like add the listing to the MLS and put a sign in the yard. But you may be the one dealing with setting the price, showings, open houses and even negotiation on any offers.Lets compare this to a different type of service. If you need to go to the dentist to have our teeth cleaned, would you use a discount service? They might just hand you a tooth brush and floss and tell you to get to work. This may sound silly, but it is similar to the discount broker approach.

Hiring a Qualified Charlottesville Agent

This is the next step, find a qualified Charlottesville Realtor who is experienced in not just listing homes, but Selling Charlottesville Homes. This is not always easy but worth the effort. One of the best ways to find an agent is using personal referrals. But do not stop there. Next check their results, their online presence and their sales process.

Remember you are going to be working with this Charlottesville Agent over a period of time. You can set this time frame in your listing agreement but you will have to have excellent communication between you and your agent. This is critical. So be sure you choose someone you feel comfortable working with.

Selling your Charlottesville Home is an important decision. So using a professional is just good common sense.

# of Views : 701]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/selling-a-charlottesville-home-is-easy/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/selling-a-charlottesville-home-is-easy/ Use a local Charlottesville Buyers Agent http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/gaZne02zavc/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/use-a-local-buyers-agent/#comments Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:23:42 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=11331 When looking to buy a home in Charlottesville, or any area for that matter, logic dictates that you use a highly skilled local Charlottesville buyers agent. However, I see so many people go against this logic. So lets look at why.

A Local Charlottesville Buyers Agent Knows The Market

This just makes good sense. Most Buyers Agents specialize in a particular location. We know the Charlottesville Real Estate market because we are passionate about local real estate.

If I were to consider buying a home in Fairfax County, I would find a qualified buyers agent in that area. They know the market, they know the schools and they know the price points of neighborhoods.

Even though I know my market and I am a Charlottesville real estate broker, this does not qualify me to represent a buyer 3 or 4 counties away.

Charlottesville Buyers Agent, Charlottesville Realtor, Charlottesville Real Estate

Lets Look At Local Numbers

Pulling data today, Dec 12, 2011. From our local mls CAAR  There were 349 transactions for 2011 Year to date that used an agent outside the area. This is a total of over $84,000,000 eighty four million dollars in transactions.

I am a numbers guy and my wife says I look at to many numbers, but lets play a little numbers game.

Lets say that a qualified Charlottesville buyers agent represented these transactions and conservatively saved the buyers 5% on these deals.
That is a savings of 4.2 million dollars!

Now I looked at Wikipedia Buyers Agent and they say that a buyers agent will save around 2% vs my example above. That is still a savings of $1,680,000. But I can tell you that I am being conservative at 5%, at least with my buyers in our area. Most Buyers Agents specialize in a particular location.

Aunt Mary Is An Agent In The State

This is critical. If you are using Uncle Ralph or Aunt Mary because they are agents and family members, you are making a critical mistake. Ask them to help you find a local Charlottesville VA Buyers agent in the area where you are looking that works for buyers.

They will likely get a referral fee and this is fine, but it will save you time, frustration and money in the long run.

Finding A Local Charlottesville Buyers Agent

Agent Handshake

Referrals are best. Ask friends, co-workers and agents for a local buyers agent. I see a lot of agents get designations that say they are buyers agents (I did it when I first started in real estate too).

To get these designations, an agent takes a class or two and pays annual dues to be able to “advertise” that they are a Charlottesville buyers agent. It is best to find an agent that actually represents buyers and not one that just says they do.

A True Charlottesville Buyers Agent

A true Charlottesville buyers agent will not try to sell you a home. They represent “you” not a listing or any one home. They will help you find the perfect home for you. If you find that the agent you are working with is trying to sell you their listing(s) then you need to have a serious discussion with them about buyer representation.

 

# of Views : 797]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/use-a-local-buyers-agent/feed/ 4 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/use-a-local-buyers-agent/ Happy Clients Happy Home Happy Holidays http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/9VYzCidnC5I/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/happy-clients-happy-home-happy-holidays/#comments Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:16:37 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=11191 Sharing the Holidays

I am always so pleased to hear from clients and see that they are happy with their new homes. The smiles on these faces just brightens my day!

This is one of the nicest Christmas gifts I can receive.

Enjoy the season and Merry Christmas!

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(another get together to discuss Real Estate in Charlottesville)

Tis the season, and some of the crew at Charlottesville Solutions got together today to share a little holiday cheer and discuss a great year just past and another even greater year coming in 2012.

We love to get together, share a meal and talk about better ways to serve our clients.
As a new company opening our doors this time last year, we can look back and see the growth our company has experienced over the year (even in a not so great market) and it is a good time to think about what we want to do in the new year to help our clients even more.
We want every person we work with to feel that they have had the best possible outcome and that they can continue count on us anytime.
Happy Holidays from Solutions!
# of Views : 635]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/solutions-december-meeting/feed/ 7 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/solutions-december-meeting/ Christmas Tree Head http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/dyCRw-XjsGM/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/christmas-tree-head-2/#comments Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:10:43 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2010/11/christmas-tree-head-2/ Charlottesville Christmas Tree

I just could non resist posting this photo. I do not know where it came from as a family member emailed it to me. It just makes me laugh and I hope you enjoy it too.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Note: It is that time of year again and I do have a habit of saying Merry Christmas. In saying so I am expressing my freedom of speech and also hope that you will do the same no matter what your religious beliefs are. I hope that you and your familys enjoy the holidays as much as we do!

# of Views : 1205]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/christmas-tree-head-2/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/christmas-tree-head-2/ Glasshouse Winey http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/m880ttAMBZ4/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/glasshouse-winey/#comments Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:46:36 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=10680  

Glass House Winery

Have you every been looking for the perfect place to take friends or family while they are visiting you in Charlottesville?

Sometime a glass of wine with good friends is the best way to reconnect, relax and enjoy the season. Take a short drive to Free Union and visit Glass House Winey. There you will enjoy fine wines, wonderful views, live music and even a “tropical” setting.

The owners, friends and clients of mine, have turned this 21 acre property into a unique retreat, just a few minutes from Charlottesville.

# of Views : 523]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/glasshouse-winey/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/glasshouse-winey/ Charlottesville Land and a single tree http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/W_J-CxUv81U/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/12/charlottesville-land-and-a-single-tree/#comments Thu, 01 Dec 2011 23:34:44 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=9998 Charlottesville Land
Charlottesville PhotoIt is hard to look at Charlottesville without thinking about the Charlottesville Land in the area.

We have an area that has wonderful views and four seasons. When we look at land, we sometime forget to see the beauty in just one tree. This tree was photographed by a good friend and it reminds me of just how magnificent the land is in the Charlottesville area.

Remember the old saying “stop and smell the roses”? I think that we should add to that and say “stop and see a tree”.

Enjoy Charlottesville!

 

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Write a good Bio

Seems like this is a no brainer but I am amazed at how many people have little or no Bio on Google.
Why spend so much time without having a good Bio, makes no sense to me.
Engage
Google+ is very social and you have the opportunity to engage with “specific” circles of friends and contacts. Very powerful if used properly.
Humor
Have a sense of humor. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
# of Views : 548]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/top-3-google-tips-for-real-estate-business/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/top-3-google-tips-for-real-estate-business/ HAPPY THANKSGIVING! http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/hZgNLOy0csw/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/happy-thanksgiving-2/#comments Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:22:51 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=9551 Happy Thanksgiving to all

From your friends at Charlottesville Solutions

# of Views : 470]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/happy-thanksgiving-2/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/happy-thanksgiving-2/ My Charlottesville Home is not listed? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/dodR_1q5ZE4/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/my-charlottesville-home-is-not-listed/#comments Wed, 23 Nov 2011 23:57:00 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=9540 Hitchcock photo

Why my home is not listed in Charlottesville

This story is so important that I decided to repost it as I have recently seen the same issue again in the Charlottesville Real Estate Market

Charlottesville Listing Appointment

A while ago I went on a listing appointment. Long story Short… the seller decided to use another agent (her mom’s recommendation). No problem…
Well I later got an email from the seller that said:

Hi Charles I have to admit I still use your site because I just love the feature (and I’ve pointed a couple of other people at it as well) but I noticed just now that my house isn’t listed on there.  Do you pull data automatically from MLS, or is it a manual upload? Just curious since it’s such a great tool. Thanks!

I had to look into this and it goes back to Broker Reciprocity in Virginia. The listing agent/broker that the seller decided to use does not belong to IDX. Since this is a sensitive subject I had to respond to her with a very basic message:

Hello Seller… I talked to our support staff at our local MLS and all data is updated daily. Each Broker/Agent can choose to have their listings included or excluded in this data feed. You may want to check with your listing agent as to their policy regarding MLS Data.

The truth is that if a Broker/Agent is not using IDX they are doing a dis-service to their seller (In my opinion)…
NOTE TO SELLERS: Ask your listing agent if they belong to IDX, after all the goal is to get your home SOLD!

Switching Charlottesville Agents

Update to the story: After the agent had it listed for 6 months the sellers decided it was time to reconsider my associate and I for the listing. We did in fact re-list it and sold it in 58 days. The area that the home was in was a little difficult but with proper exposure, the home did sell…
# of Views : 360]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/my-charlottesville-home-is-not-listed/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/my-charlottesville-home-is-not-listed/ Start your engines! http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/0p5d9ccskCw/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/start-your-engines/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 22:07:24 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/blog/?p=9504

Charlottesville Race Fans

Charlottesville Real Estate

When searching for a home, you have to just get started!

When looking at homes in Charlottesville most buyers want a deal. Well there are certainly some deals out there but there are also homes that are priced fairly in the Charlottesville real estate market.

When you are considering a home, you also want to consider the current market. Both in Virginia and in the United States. Things have a way of looking bleak just before a major turn and timing may be perfect.
Consider current interest rates when looking at Charlottesville homes. Rates will certainly go up the future and this means the cost of homes go up even if the prices remain flat.

So I hear that many families are looking for Charlottesville homes that are fairly priced. Yes it is true and it all starts with the desire to learn more about the area.

When you are ready to start your search, let as know as we are here to help.
# of Views : 372]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/start-your-engines/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/start-your-engines/ Today in Charlottesville http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/3W6HGkOFobA/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/today-in-charlottesville-2/#comments Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:57:29 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/today-in-charlottesville-2/ Charlottesville SPCAToday is one of those days where there is a light rain and a bit of mist in the air. One thing about the weather in Charlottesville is that if you do not like, wait an hour or so as it will change. Having this kind of variety makes for a wonderful experience everyday and today is no different. When I went out this morning I just assumed that there was not enough rain to worry about.

 
Fast forward a couple hours and I got caught in it!
 
You know it is kinda fun to have a little change in the weather.
Tomorrow they are calling for clear skies, but you never know.

# of Views : 530]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/today-in-charlottesville-2/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/today-in-charlottesville-2/ Ivy Creek Natural Area – from Solutions http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/PS2hL--1UXA/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/ivy-creek-natural-area-from-solutions/#comments Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:01 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/ivy-creek-natural-area-from-charlottesville-real-estate-solutions/ Ivy Creek Natural AreaThe Fall colors are amazing and the trails are a nice hike (no bikes). We love Charlottesville

# of Views : 305]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/ivy-creek-natural-area-from-solutions/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/ivy-creek-natural-area-from-solutions/ Real Estate Scam? – you have been warned http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/767h36w5o2Q/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/real-estate-scam-you-have-been-warned/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:54:14 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/?p=9496 I recently got this email:

Scam Alert

Hi there,

I am interested in viewing one of your properties, could you please call me on my foreign mobile +882 135 502 99 to setup a time. As I am travelling at the moment I am unable to pickup emails regularly so please call.

Kind regards,

Liz Casey
———
Mobile: +882 135 502 99
Email: lizcasey@zapak.com

~~~~~~~~~~

I can tell you it was very suspicious to me so I goggled the name and then I goggled the email address and nothing really interesting came up…

So I tried something different. I googled part of the message:

“I am interested in viewing one of your properties, could you please call me on my foreign mobile”

which brought up a site where someone with the exact same message was questioning it back in Aug 2007

See: http://www.city-data.com/forum/renting/692960-scam-not.html

When you are selling Real Estate, you have to watch those crazy emails, people are pulling all kinds of things these days….

 

# of Views : 256]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/real-estate-scam-you-have-been-warned/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/real-estate-scam-you-have-been-warned/ Open House at 1604 Bruce Ave, Charlottesville VA http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/ZXhKvkMVagk/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/open-house-at-1604-bruce-ave-charlottesville-va/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:25:11 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/open-house-at-1604-bruce-ave-charlottesville-va/ Solutions Open House

CLICK PHOTO

Click for Information on 1604 Bruce Ave

Sorry this Home is Under Contract

# of Views : 539]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/open-house-at-1604-bruce-ave-charlottesville-va/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/open-house-at-1604-bruce-ave-charlottesville-va/ 1604 Bruce Ave – a Charlottesville Home to see today! http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/H6M3YWUJ2Ps/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/1604-bruce-ave-a-charlottesville-home-to-see-today/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:12:47 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/1604-bruce-ave-a-charlottesville-home-to-see-today/ Days on Market: 3 | Original Price: $339,000
Bed: 4 | Bath: 3.0 | Built: 1955 | Acres: 0.34
MLS: 493863
Finished Sqft: 1,958 | Unfinished Sqft: 166

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, NOV. 20, 1:30-4 PM – VENABLE ELEM. Freshly painted & updated, 1950s one level 4 BR/2.5 BA ranch w/ partially finished w/o bsmt. Handsome 1/3 acre corner lot in popular city neighborhood – walking distance of Greenleaf & McIntire Parks, UVA & Barracks Road Shopping Center. Hardwood floors, W/B fireplace in LR, good closet space. Over-sized screened porch & back deck overlooking mostly level yard. Paved driveway. Terrace-level entrance perfect for separate home office.

SOLD

# of Views : 293]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/1604-bruce-ave-a-charlottesville-home-to-see-today/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/1604-bruce-ave-a-charlottesville-home-to-see-today/ Charlottesville Homes and Multiple offers http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/JCfGkLsPC5I/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/charlottesville-homes-and-multiple-offers/#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:06:17 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/charlottesville-homes-and-multiple-offers/ I was recently asked about multiple offers that seem to be going on in the Charlottesville area. Over the last few weeks I have seen or

been involved in several multiple offer Real Estate deals.

I think the answer(s), at least for Charlottesville area, are simple….

BUYERS: Are taking advantage of low rates and lower priced homes (getting off the fence).

SELLERS: The ones that are serious, are getting their homes in the best shape possible (I just had a listing go under contract and we did not even have time to add it to the MLS, more on this later) and the sellers are now pricing their homes competitively!

It is as simple as that!

Great to see our market taking off again, let me know if you have any questions?

# of Views : 377]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/charlottesville-homes-and-multiple-offers/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/charlottesville-homes-and-multiple-offers/ POLITICS – Humor http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/V2VTCI3KVDI/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/politics-humor-3/#comments Sun, 13 Nov 2011 22:39:58 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/politics-humor-3/ This is just too funny not to share :-)

 

I stumbled on this definition of the word POLI-TICS and I had to add to it a little…

There are 2 parts to the word

The first part derived from the word : POLY a Greek prefix meaning “many”

The second part : TICS - “Bloodsuckers” that attach themselves to warm blooded mammals…

NOTE: The above is all in fun and no political parties were injured in the research into this word.
I am Charles McDonald and I approve this message!

# of Views : 592]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/politics-humor-3/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/politics-humor-3/ The listing agent did not tell me that http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/21vGJHR7WtU/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-listing-agent-did-not-tell-me-that/#comments Sun, 13 Nov 2011 22:07:38 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/i-was-looking-at-charlottesville-real-estate-and-the-listing-agent-did-not-tell-me/ This is a recent comment from a client and the reason is…

The listing agent represents the best interests of the seller (not you)…

Think about this for a minute. Virginia is a caveat emptor state (buyer beware) and that is just a fact.
Having proper representation is critical for buyers in any market and especially in our area.
This is why Charlottesville Solutions offers buyer representation, it just makes good sense.

I see deals all the time where a buyer is not informed of critical information. A listing agent does not have to tell you about an area, surrounding properties or even if you are near our old county dump. Buying real estate can be a difficult situation, don’t be left out on a limb.

So if you are relocating and looking for Charlottesville Homes, get proper buyer representation, you and your family deserve it.

# of Views : 400]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-listing-agent-did-not-tell-me-that/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-listing-agent-did-not-tell-me-that/ UVA Duke game http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/NoiLNJTHxy4/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/uva-duke-game/#comments Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:00:01 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/uva-duke-game/

# of Views : 635]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/uva-duke-game/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/uva-duke-game/ At UVA game http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/teo-gfoqqHM/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/at-uva-game/#comments Sat, 12 Nov 2011 21:59:58 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/at-uva-game/

# of Views : 181]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/at-uva-game/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/at-uva-game/ Stuck in Traffic in Charlottesville http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/IyI2rYfbBy0/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/stuck-in-traffic-in-charlottesville/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:49:35 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/stuck-in-traffic-in-charlottesville/ I just wanted to share my stressful day when I was stuck in traffic – see photo

Some days are just rough :)
# of Views : 279]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/stuck-in-traffic-in-charlottesville/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/stuck-in-traffic-in-charlottesville/ Discussing the walk through-Charlottesville Real Estate http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/_0faNk-euw8/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/discussing-the-walk-through-charlottesville-real-estate/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:21:45 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/discussing-the-walk-through-with-charlottesville-real-estate-solutions/ An important part of the process of buying a home is the walk though (just before closing).

When we do a walk-though there are a few things we want to focus on:

1. Are all the repairs completed and documented?
2. Is the home in “Broom Swept” condition? (a term used in Virginia)
3. Is the home in the same condition as when we wrote the offer?
4. Did the sellers do any damage when moving out?

First time buyers of Charlottesville homes need to be aware of these simple steps

Sometimes this is a lot simpler said than done.

# of Views : 808]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/discussing-the-walk-through-charlottesville-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/discussing-the-walk-through-charlottesville-real-estate/ Looking for a fairly priced Charlottesville Home? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/UBeMdWzDl4c/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/looking-for-a-fairly-priced-charlottesville-home/#comments Tue, 08 Nov 2011 02:07:03 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/looking-for-a-fairly-priced-charlottesville-home/
When looking at homes in Charlottesville most buyers want a deal. Well there are certainly some deals out there but there are also homes that are priced fairly in the Charlottesville real estate market.

When you are considering a home, you also want to consider the current market. Both in Virginia and in the United States. Things have a way of looking bleak just before a major turn and timing may be perfect.

Consider current interest rates when looking at Charlottesville homes. Rates will certainly go up the future and this means the cost of homes go up even if the prices remain flat.

So I hear that many families are looking for Charlottesville homesthat are fairly priced. Yes it is true and it all starts with the desire to learn more about the area.

When you are ready to start your search, let as know as we are here to help.

# of Views : 288]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/looking-for-a-fairly-priced-charlottesville-home/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/looking-for-a-fairly-priced-charlottesville-home/ Cville real estate market update-11-2011 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/7ZAQSFC0u0w/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/cville-real-estate-market-update/#comments Sun, 06 Nov 2011 21:03:33 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/cville-real-estate-market-update/

We talk a lot about Statistics when it comes to real estate. Let’s look a little closer at Charlottesville Virginia Real Estate.

Have you heard about Charlottesville Virginia?

You deserve to have the quality of life that Charlottesville has to offer. We are a small town that has everything you want to enjoy life. Think about visiting soon…

Charlottesville Real Estate

 CLICK PHOTO

 Let’s Talk Charlottesville Real Estate

 We are very fortunate to live in such a wonderful area. We have four season, Blue Ridge Views and the University of Virginia! Sales are starting to pick up in Charlottesville and our year is moving along nicely!

  • In Charlottesville City we have SOLD 313 HOMES.
  • There are currently 265 HOMES on the market.  (274 last report)
  • Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 123 Days
  • Our Average selling price is $293,347

 

 

# of Views : 225]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/cville-real-estate-market-update/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/cville-real-estate-market-update/ Lake Monticello & Charlottesville Homes http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/JKCbLWk8tTI/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/lake-monticello-charlottesville-homes/#comments Sun, 06 Nov 2011 20:53:21 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/lake-monticello-charlottesville-homes/

 There are a lot of reasons to look at Lake Monticello.

Fluvanna County is located South East of Charlottesville. One of the main draws to Fluvanna is the Lake Monticello Area. Here you can get a home on a lake at a great price and the commute to Charlottesville is about 30 minutes on beautiful county roads!

 Lake Monticello Real Estate

 

 CLICK PHOTO

  The Real Estate market everywhere is constantly changing and Fluvanna County Virginia is too.

  • In Fluvanna we have SOLD 204 HOME this year.
  • There are currently 311 HOMES on the market.
  • Our average DOM (Days on the Market) is at 124
  • Our Average selling price is $225,421

Here is a chart of current trends in Fluvanna:

Come visit and tour our area anytime!

# of Views : 453]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/lake-monticello-charlottesville-homes/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/lake-monticello-charlottesville-homes/ The Hook Charlottesville’s weekly newspaper http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/-IrE_E7ZvVw/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-hook-charlottesvilles-weekly-newspaper/#comments Fri, 04 Nov 2011 23:54:11 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/the-hook-charlottesvilles-weekly-newspaper/ Looking for the latest from our local newspaper.
The Hook offers stories, Movies, Culture, Music and even Classified.

 

# of Views : 321]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-hook-charlottesvilles-weekly-newspaper/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/the-hook-charlottesvilles-weekly-newspaper/ Multi Family Charlottesville Homes http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/D2sI_jzRoOQ/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/multi-family-charlottesville-homes/#comments Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:23:23 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/11/multi-family-charlottesville-homes/ I just love to get questions from my clients and below is one that I wanted to share:

Charles, I often look at your site for investments in the Charlottesville area. Can you show me how to find Multi Family properties for sale?

This is simple…. follow this link for Multi Family Charlottesville Homes
If you have any other questions or suggestions, just drop me an email.
Best regards, Charles

 

# of Views : 280]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/multi-family-charlottesville-homes/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/11/multi-family-charlottesville-homes/ NGIC Real Estate and Hancock Farms http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/leMTBifhP8I/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/ngic-real-estate-and-hancock-farms/#comments Sat, 29 Oct 2011 18:36:14 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/ngic-real-estate-and-hancock-farms/ Located minutes to NGIC and DIA is Hancock Farms.

Visit the model or contact one of our agents for a personal tour.

The Seller is Represented by Charlottesville Solutions

# of Views : 281]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/ngic-real-estate-and-hancock-farms/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/ngic-real-estate-and-hancock-farms/ Charlottesville Historic Real Estate http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/0unH-aOEdOQ/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-historic-real-estate/#comments Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:02:40 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-historic-real-estate/ Charles how do you define Historic Charlottesville Homes on your website?
I love questions from my client and this is a good one. What I have done is setup searches based on homes built in 1940 or older. This picks up homes that are 71 years old in the Charlottesville VA area. The beauty of this Charlottesville home search is that you will see homes from the 1800′s and also homes from the early 1900′s so that you get a broad comparison of homes.

 

Let me know if you have any questions or any additional suggestions as I love to add new features for my clients.
# of Views : 272]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-historic-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-historic-real-estate/ Charlottesville Pumpkins http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/fVF0y1H5iH4/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-pumpkins/#comments Sun, 23 Oct 2011 12:05:40 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-pumpkins/


With the cool Fall weather in Virginia it is time to take a break from showing Charlottesville Real Estate and have some Family Fun. We love to carve pumpkins and this photo is just a sample.

Now we are not experts at carving but we have gotten better over the years.

Note: I  do most of the big knife carving and still have my 10 fingers.

Enjoy the season and most of all enjoy your family time

# of Views : 389]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-pumpkins/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-pumpkins/ Solutions meeting-Charlottesville Real Estate http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/0nv4Ulxj7qo/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/solutions-meeting-charlottesville-real-estate/#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:27:58 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/solutions-meeting-regarding-charlottesville-real-estate/

Today we have a meeting with all the Agents at Solutions. We do not have regularly schedule meetings like a lot of firms do. We have meetings when there is a specific topic or issue that needs to be addressed.

Today’s meeting is about current market trends and a surprise topic that i am sure no other firm discusses.

I am off to Solutions!

# of Views : 428]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/solutions-meeting-charlottesville-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/solutions-meeting-charlottesville-real-estate/ CAAR 3rd Quarter Market Report 2011 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/vFNaPEMVsUw/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/caar-3rd-quarter-market-report/#comments Mon, 10 Oct 2011 21:42:49 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/?p=9285 Every quarter our local Realtor Association sends out the lastest numbers for the past Quarter.

If you read my blog, you see numbers a lot more often, however I wanted to share the report from CAAR with my readers.

Please remember that each area is unique and I always advise that you consult with your Real Estate Professional to understand these numbers and the local market.

 

CAAR 3rd Quarter Market Report

# of Views : 752]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/caar-3rd-quarter-market-report/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/caar-3rd-quarter-market-report/ Charlottesville Michie Tavern http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/rr69fW4QAdc/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-michie-tavern/#comments Mon, 10 Oct 2011 20:23:23 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-michie-tavern/

 

 

A Virginia Historic Landmark, Michie Tavern is a place to stop, visit and dine like they did a hundred years ago.
The food is authentic to the time and everyone is dressed in period clothes. This is a place for the entire family.

 

For more information visit: Michie Tavern Charlottesville

# of Views : 493]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-michie-tavern/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-michie-tavern/ Charlottesville Home Stats http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/LTMli-2Jr_Q/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-home-stats/#comments Sat, 08 Oct 2011 21:23:07 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-home-stats/ When looking at statistics it helps to look at MoM and YoY… This is Month over Month and Year over Year.So below you can see that the MoM is up and the YoY is down.  Hard to make a conclusion, but I would suggest we are in a sideways trend. What do you think?

# of Views : 355]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-home-stats/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-home-stats/ About Charlottesville Real Estate http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/Tss7gkdidT0/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/about-charlottesville-real-estate/#comments Fri, 07 Oct 2011 19:14:30 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/about-charlottesville-real-estate/ What makes Charlottesville Real Estate Solutions unique is that we are a technology driven company that specializes in Charlottesville Real Estate web based Solutions. We build and maintain our websites and get input from our clients to add features, like map search and “one-click just-listed” Charlottesville homes.

Working with buyers and sellers to solve the complexities of purchasing homes in the Charlottesville real estate and surrounding counties is what we do every day.
# of Views : 431]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/about-charlottesville-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/about-charlottesville-real-estate/ Charlottesville Whole Foods http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/lvfEUOHX-8s/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-whole-foods/#comments Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:18:43 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/?p=9280

Wow! Let me just say that again, Wow!

If you have been to the new Whole Food Store in Charlottesville, you know what I mean. Once in a while I get dragged into a trip to the grocery store with my wife where I stand around with my hands in my pockets looking bored but I can assure you that did not happen at Whole Foods.

My wife kept losing me in the store, it was kind of like a treasure hunt when you are a kid. Suffice to say we left the store with these things that were not on her list:
just baked cookies from the cookie bar,
fresh pasta and sauce from the pasta bar,
fresh hot pizza from, yes, the pizza bar,
a huge fresh made salad from the salad bar,
and a fresh, hot cup of coffee from the coffee bar!
Next time I take a break from Charlottesville Real Estate, you may find me at Whole Foods, don’t tell my wife
.

# of Views : 547]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-whole-foods/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-whole-foods/ Charlottesville Real Estate and Weather http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/aM9VLSOvuW8/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-and-weather/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:56:55 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-and-weather/ It is always nice to show Charlottesville Real Estate when we have Charlottesville Weather like this.
Take a look and you will see what I mean.

When you are out looking for homes on your own try using our Charlottesville Map Search

Do not forget to visit Monticello and the Downtown Mall. These are both must see locations.

# of Views : 381]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-and-weather/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-and-weather/ Charlottesville bird sighting http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/6nzjdoEvqfE/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-bird-sighting/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:11:51 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-bird-sighting/

I saw my first Red Headed Woodpecker in our yard today!
Gotta love the county living around Charlottesville

# of Views : 323]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-bird-sighting/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-bird-sighting/ Why Charlottesville is rated so highly http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/BeOrLBKvqOQ/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/why-charlottesville-is-rated-so-highly/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:21:39 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/why-charlottesville-is-rated-so-highly/ From my wife’s perspective…

Well, the answer to that question depends on who you are. Let me answer using my own family as an example.

For my husband, Charlottesville offers an environment which allows his small business to flourish and grow by being a small enough town to enjoy word of mouth advertising yet big enough to offer a wide range of opportunities.  As a stay at home mom, I can get everything done that needs doing in a very small radius, (the food, the clothes, the dry cleaning) and have time left oCharlottesvillever to do some of the things I want to do. For me that means gardening, which this area is absolutely fabulous for, great garden stores are around every corner, I’m in heaven. Also, lots of great opportunities for art, music, and theater.

Our kids (13 and 15) have had the best possible school experiences here in Albemarle County. From elementary, to middle and now high school our schools have proven to be of the highest quality, thanks to the great teachers and nurturing environment fostered throughout our school system. The University of Virginia, one of the best schools in the country, will be there when they are ready for the next step.

My mother-in-law, who moved here with us eleven years ago from a large city, has been amazed at how much better her quality of life is here in Charlottesville. With a lot of the medical needs that come with age, she feels that she receives superior medical care here from top notch doctors (who remembers her name when she visits them), and with the University of Virgina Hospital, and Martha Jefferson Hospital so nearby she feels very comfortable that all her healthcare needs will be met. She also enjoys the senior friendly aspect of Charlottesville, which offers lots of clubs and activities geared to seniors. The clean air here has helped her asthma and in general her lifestyle is healthy and relaxed.

There is always a great answer to that question,”What should we do this weekend”. I could make you a list, golf, skiing, and miles of pristine hiking trails. Driving the Blue Ridge Mountain to see the fall colors. Fairs and Festivals almost every weekend. Fridays after Five in downtown Charlottesville (music)! Farmers Markets spring to fall. Football Games, Go Hoos!  You get the idea.

Having said all this the answer to “Why Charlottesville” may be completely different for you, come visit and find your own answer!

# of Views : 452]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/why-charlottesville-is-rated-so-highly/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/why-charlottesville-is-rated-so-highly/ Charlottesville Real Estate Broker tells all http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/pAIT2y7Q1zA/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-broker-tells-all/#comments Tue, 04 Oct 2011 01:01:11 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-broker-tells-all/

Charlottesville Real Estate Broker tells all

Well maybe not all but I want to make my clients aware of why I started Charlottesville Real Estate Solutions. Many people know how I got into Real Estate after moving to the Charlottesville area 11 years ago. There is a lot about this subject on my website – Charlottesville Solutions

The reason that I started Charlottesville Solutions is actually very interesting. You see when I started in real estate I worked at a large brokerage and it was eye opening. A large brokerageis like a large ship, it moves slowly and deliberately, but it does take time.

I then went to a dynamic franchisereal estate firm in Charlottesville. This was very interesting to see some top agents that all operated independent from one another. It was like a lot of faster boats but all going in different directions.

This background prompted me to start Charlottesville Solutions. We are a boutique firm focused on using technology to solve the needs of our clients. Now I am not going into the details here, you can get some ideas from our websites. The main difference is that we are a fast boat that can turn on a dime!

Stay tuned…

# of Views : 433]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-broker-tells-all/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-broker-tells-all/ Charlottesville Real Estate increases performance http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/oOpgoygtYNI/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-increases-performance/#comments Sun, 02 Oct 2011 13:43:06 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-increases-performance/

Over the years I have added a lot of features to our websites. One think I have really wanted to do (actually just did not have enough time) is to upgrade our site to increase the performance. I have talked with a few clients who tell me that the increase in speed is very noticeable.To be honest, I was not fully aware of the lack of performance until I was shown it on a clients home computer. Let me know what you think?

CLICK PHOTO

# of Views : 357]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-increases-performance/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/10/charlottesville-real-estate-increases-performance/ Charlottesville Parade of Homes http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/uIYkNIAkYCs/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/charlottesville-parade-of-homes-3/#comments Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:15:57 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/09/charlottesville-parade-of-homes-3/ Charlottesvillle Parade of HOMES – Charlottesville, Virginia!

The 2011 Parade of Homes kicks off on Oct 1 & 2 and Oct 8 & 9 (12-5pm)Every year our local builders step up to the plate and show off their fine homes!

If you are in the market to buy a new home or just thinking about it, these two weekend are a must see. You can pick homes by price range, location or type of homes, whatever works for you.

To be brutally honest, my wife and I go to these tours to get remodeling ideas!

Learn from the best and see what our builders have been doing!

 

 

When you are ready to buy that perfect home, just give me a call and we can work out all the details.

Best regards from Charlottesville, Virginia

# of Views : 803]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/charlottesville-parade-of-homes-3/feed/ 2 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/charlottesville-parade-of-homes-3/ Why is Charlottesville Real Estate so popular? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/sQkbrLiuETQ/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/why-is-charlottesville-real-estate-so-popular/#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:50:34 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/09/why-is-charlottesville-real-estate-so-popular/ Charlottesville has always been popular but with the economy the way it is and the uncertainty over our national debt, the Charlottesville Real Estate market has become even more popular. People from other areas are looking for value and the quality of life that living in Charlottesville offers.
I have recent clients, interviewing at UVA and the Medical Center who are seeing that this area not only is desirable, but that we actually have job opportunities.

In these troubling times, it is nice to know that some places are holding their own!

 

# of Views : 307]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/why-is-charlottesville-real-estate-so-popular/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/why-is-charlottesville-real-estate-so-popular/ Solutions discussing new construction http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/bcfGCJ42eBM/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/solutions-discussing-new-construction/#comments Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:12:07 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/09/charlottesville-real-estate-discussing-new-construction/ Builders, What are you thinking?

Our Housing market never really seems to stop building. The demand for housing is and continues to be strong for the Charlottesville Real Estate Market.

Some of the smart builders and smart developers know this.

We are seeing smaller developments with hundreds of homes in the plans. New Homes in Albemarle County continue to be built. There is a lot of debate over where and how and why, but that is another story.

I want to go on record as saying to builders,

“stop building homes that do not have a First Floor Master!”

The baby boomers are at an average age of around 60 years old. I can tell you from experience that they do not even want to consider homes without a first floor master.

I am talking specifically about our Charlottesville Real Estate market, but I believe this is true in a lot of areas! There are some local builder’s putting in 3 story (yes 3 story) homes in town and they are killing themselves by not having a First Floor Master option…

My next home purchase will have a First Floor Master and that is the Trend!!!

This is my opinion and I am stinking sticking to it!!!

When Looking for the perfect home in Charlottesville with a First Floor Master, give me a call, I will be sure you see them all.

# of Views : 1007]]> http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/solutions-discussing-new-construction/feed/ 0 http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/solutions-discussing-new-construction/ Do I need a Custom Search for Charlottesville Homes? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCharlottesvilleBLOG/~3/QuLTwQ9L-pE/ http://www.charlottesvillerealestatesolutions.com/2011/09/do-i-need-a-custom-search-for-charlottesville-homes/#comments Sat, 24 Sep 2011 15:10:00 +0000 Charles McDonald http://www.mycharlottesvilleblog.com/2011/09/do-i-need-a-custom-search-for-charlottesville-homes/

We have found that so many people search for Charlottesville Real Estate in different ways.
Here is just an example of a few of our Custom Charlottesville Search links on the Charlottesville Solutions website!

Let us know if there is a search you would like us to add?
We love a challenge.

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