Helena Talbot's blog - Do You Know Why Your House Is Not Selling

If your house has been on the market for any length of time and is not selling, you are probably wondering what you have done wrong.  What's wrong with your house.  Why is it not selling.   Don't worry, this happens sometimes but with the help of your realtor it can be done.

Here are a few things to consider if your house is not selling and what you can do about it.

1.  Price.  Yep, that is usually the first thing people think and they very well might be right.  Remember your house is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it no matter what you think your house is worth or how many upgrades you have made.   You will need to work with your realtor in researching the current market in your area.  Then and only then will you be able to determine the fair market value of your home even if it is not what you think it should be.   A big mistake many people make when choosing a realtor is picking the one that "says" they can get you a higher price for your home than the market commands.  Do your homework and be prepared to make an educated decision when choosing your realtor.

2.  Don't base your selling price on your needs.  What you "need" to make on your house does not mean anything to a potential buyer.  So set your price based on the facts - the fair market value for your area.

3.  Keep your emotions out of it.  If you are basing your price according to what your neighbor sold theirs for a few years ago because you "think" your house is better.  Then stop right there.  This is going to get you nowhere.  Markets change and many sellers view their homes in a whole different light than someone that is impartial.  So don't base your price on your emotional attachment to your house.

4.  Don't be greedy.   If the fair market value of your home is $300,000 and you want to try to get $350,000 for it, this will come back to haunt you later when your house sits on the market for a year with no takers.  Now potential buyers will think there is something wrong with your house because it is not selling.

5.  Price is not always the issue.  If a buyer see's imperfections  such as an unkempt lawn or a broken fence etc., you will continually receive low ball offers.  So if you have any obvious imperfections, go ahead and fix them before you put your house on the market.

6.  If location or noise issues are the problem, then you and your realtor will need to come up with ways to overcome those buyer objections before they occur.  Maybe the price justifies the issue or perhaps you can "throw in" something to sweeten the deal such as paying closing costs etc.

7.  Is your house clean?  Make sure your house is clean inside and out otherwise you may find yourself sitting on your house for a very long time.

8.  Are you making it difficult for your buyers to see your property?  It is in your best interest to allow a lockbox to be put on your house.  If you only allow buyers to come by on an appointment only basis this will also reduce your chances of a quick sale.  Talk to your realtor about these things.  Most agents are more than willing to give you a courtesy call before showing your home to allow you just enough time to pick up and make arrangements to be out of the house.

9.  Make sure you are not present during a showing.  Most buyers are very uncomfortable touring your home while you are there.  Furthermore, it makes it more difficult for them to picture themselves living there while you are in the home.

10.  Sometimes the reasons are beyond your control.  Such as a new home development being built in your area or maybe you received some bad advice from your agent.  This is the time you will need to step back and reassess the situation.  What can you do to overcome the obstacle.   Do you need to sweeten the deal or perhaps you should postpone moving.  Or perhaps you need to replace your current agent with someone that has a little more experience.

There are many reasons that your house may not be selling.  Talk with your realtor about reassessing your current market strategies and together you can come up with some viable options.   Just remember, eventually your house will sell.  Follow your realtors advice and they will do everything in their power to get you the best possible offer.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - 5 Factors That Effect Your Credit Score

Your credit score is one factor that will control a big portion of your life.  That little three digit number that can cost you money or save you money.  Needless to say,  it is very important that you understand what factors go into how the credit bureaus decide what your credit score will be.

There are three main credit reporting agencies:  TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax.  Your credit score is a reflection of your debt and payment history.

Here are five things that will affect your credit score.

1.  A variety of credit.  Creditors want to see that you have a history of different types of credit.  Such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages.

2.  How much debt you have.   The more debt you have the more of a risk you are to a lender.  Therefore, always try to pay down or pay off your debt to make yourself less of a risk to a lender.  This will make it easier for them to approve your loan and offer you a lower interest rate.

3.  What is your payment history.  It is very important that you pay all of your bills on time.  This means everything from your utility bills to your credit cards.  Everything!  Late payments will lower your credit score.

4.  How old is your current credit.  Whatever you do - do not open any new lines of credit, no matter how small they are, if you are getting ready to start looking for a home.  If you do, this tells a lender that you may be spending too much, too fast and they will lower your credit score and will more than likely give you a higher interest rate.

5.  How long have you had credit.  Age matters when it comes to credit.  Younger buyers are at a disadvantage because their credit history is shorter.  The longer your credit history is the better.  This gives the lender a better idea of how you handle your money and your debt and whether or not you historically pay your bills on time.

It is important that you check your credit reports throughout the year.   You will need to make sure that everything is accurate and that there is nothing there that does not belong.  
If there are issues with your credit report, this will give you some time to correct or improve things before you attempt to buy a house.

Talk to your realtor about what you can do to improve your credit score and exactly what you will need in order to qualify for a home loan.   Your realtor will be able to refer you to a reputable mortgage lender, thereby making the whole process much easier.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - How to Prevent Neighbors from Devaluing Your Home

Your troublesome neighbor may not just be a nuisance...but a drain on your property's value. According to the Appraisal Institute, a professional association of real estate appraisers, homeowners and potential homebuyers should be aware that problematic neighbors can significantly reduce nearby property values.

Less-than-stellar neighbors can include homeowners with annoying pets, unkempt yards, unpleasant odors, loud music, dangerous trees and limbs, or poorly maintained exteriors. A homeowner or prospective homebuyer should visit a street on several days at various times to learn more about what is happening in the neighborhood. A home’s proximity to a bad neighbor also can impact the rate of potential decline in value.

According to Appraisal Institute President Richard L. Borges II, MAI, SRA, external situations, such as living near a bad neighbor, can lower home values by more than 5 to 10 percent. Appraisers refer to this as external obsolescence, which is depreciation caused by external factors not on the property.

The Appraisal Institute suggests taking the following steps to help solve neighbor issues:

1. Speak with other neighbors. Get consensus when identifying issues, and approach the problematic neighbor together.

2. Look up original and updated subdivision restrictions. If talking to the neighbor doesn’t work, see if they’re violating any restrictions. If so, writing to the code office of the municipality and reporting the problem could spur an investigation into the nuisance. Depending on the offense, a call to the local health department also may be warranted.

3. Hire an attorney. If all else fails, the cost of an attorney likely will be less than the home’s potential loss in value.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - Buying A Second Home

Buying a second home - should you or shouldn't you - that is the question.  Well, buying a second home could very well be the absolute best thing you have ever done but you have to do it for the right reasons.  Let's talk about a few of the things you need to consider before making any quick decisions.

First you must ask yourself why you want to purchase a second home.  Is it to invest in your future?  Is it to use for a vacation home?  Are you doing it for an additional income?  The answer to these questions is critical so let's look at all of the facts.

If you are buying a second home as rental property to use as part of your retirement plan then you have made the right decision.  Buying a home forces you to make regular savings in the form of a mortgage payment each month and that is money in the bank when it comes to a retirement fund.

You must make sure,however, that you have enough money to cover the mortgage payments plus any additional expenses such as repairs, yearly taxes and insurance, if they are not a part of your mortgage payment, and anything else that may arise.  The good news is if you buy the right house at the right price, your rental property should always stay rented.

Another reason a second home as part of your retirement plan is a good idea is due to the fact that your investment money is subject to less income tax and the interest and taxes may be deductible.   So planning ahead could pay off in a big way.

Housing, for the most part, appreciates over time.  There are definitely ups and downs in the housing market but buying a home is a long term investment that can ride those tides very well.  A home is an inflation proof investment.

The experts have predicted that both fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages will probably remain in the single digits for the foreseeable future.  Therefore, financing a home with a nominal down payment should remain achievable for quite some time.

Buying a home is very exciting and can be a very profitable experience but your decision cannot be made lightly.  It is wise to give a lot of thought to why you want a second home, then make a financial plan and stick to it.

If you have some disposable income, then purchasing a vacation home may be just what you need to add a little spice to your life.  Then by all means, go ahead and find the perfect house, buy it and enjoy.

Whatever the reason you want or need a second home, please think about your reasons, make a plan and follow through.  It is also advisable to talk to a real estate agent about all of your options before diving in.  A real estate agent can help you make the best decisions and could potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - I Love Lamps: The Top 5 Table Lamp Trends

Decorating styles for 2013 have been big, dramatic, and full of rich, vibrant color. The idea is to be unique, grab attention and make a statement. Furniture design has seen lots of daring color so far, including primary colors in fabrics, Union Jack-themed couches and side tables, and dramatic tables with a steampunk, industrial loft look. 

Accessories and home accents are just as bold, with chic tones of silver, gold and tangerine tango, the designer color of the year. Not to be left out, a wide range of new designer lamp looks have followed, offering exciting new looks that will add a new brightness to your home decorating. Here are our top 5 table lamp trends for you to explore.

Big and Bold Bases
Lighting designers have gone big and bold with the lamp bases themselves. “The footprint of many lamps has gotten larger over the last couple of years,” says Lamps Plus blogger and designer Marcia Prentice. “The idea is to make the lighting a dramatic and sculptural focal point for the room.” On-trend looks include designs with a carved, antique appearance and organic-shaped bases that mimic forms found in nature. Elaborates Prentice, “To bring in an organic look, I love using big lamps that have a big wooden base or designs that have the look of driftwood or salvaged wood.”

Bright Colors
Fashion often leads the way in the exploiting new color trends. Runway inspired decor makes its presence felt in a range of brightly colored modern table lamps. Cool teal blue, more intense cobalt blue, bright and poppy tones of lavender, and glittering color treatments are all making a splash this year. And then there’s tangerine tango, the Pantone color of the year. “This is a really intense color, so a little goes a long way,” notes Prentice, “but it provides a wonderfully warm and intense blast to spice up bedrooms, seating areas and more.” 

Clear Glass and Mirrors
To balance out some of the other big and bold room elements, designers are turning to glass and mirrored lamps. Designer and blog writer Lesley Myrick says that “Glass table lamps offer a clear and pure form that provides sparkle without fighting with other colors or shapes in a room design. With glass lamps, you can see through the body to get a glimpse of the other things going on in the space. They don’t conflict with other things going on.” 

Mirrored table lamps offer more punch, reflecting textures and colors used throughout a room. “Mirrored lamps are really cool to use in smaller rooms or anywhere you want to add a little splash and dazzle,” says Myrick. Both the glass and mirror offer a taste of the hot Hollywood Luxe design look, a style that draws inspiration from classic Hollywood set design and home styles from the 1930s and 1940s. 

Metallic Table Lamps
It’s not just splashy colors and eye-catching glass that’s turning heads. Bold metallic tones of silver and gold are also being used. Observes Prentice, “Metal table lamps offer wonderful texture and glitter. They really make an impact in a room, especially when set against more organic elements or soft wall paint colors.” New designs are even bringing back an old favorite from, the brass table lamp. “Brass is a really appealing metallic tone for lamps,” says Prentice. “I love using them to give an extra layer of richness for a room.”

Custom DIY Looks
With the boom in DIY home projects and Etsy crafting, there’s also a big movement of customizing table lamps to create unique designs. Adding new trim or ribbons to a shade is one easy way to add a little personalization. “I’d also suggest looking at a new finial,” suggests Myrick. The lamp shade finial is the decorative top of the shade. These screw down onto the lamp spider to hold the shade in place. “You can find lots of really unique, inexpensive finials; there’s everything from cool abstract shapes to animals and more.”

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - Riding the Market Roller Coaster

The stock market’s drop in April, after the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed in March at its first new high since the Great Panic of 2008, has prompted a lot of conflicting predictions from analysts.

Some say it marks the end of an impressive bull market, while others say it’s just the beginning of a much larger rally. These predictions may or may not turn out to be correct -- and they leave the investor confused.

However, as with the downturn four years ago, there are smart financial moves everyone can make to potentially take advantage when and if the market rebounds.

Rebalance - Rebalancing is the process of correcting an asset allocation that has become over-weighted or under-weighted due to a market fluctuation. In layman’s terms, it is the process of bringing all your investments back into a predefined mix of equities and fixed income assets. This is an important part of creating an investment strategy. Your portfolio may be over-weighted in stocks during a market high. Rebalancing would force you to harvest some of the gains. When the market is down, rebalancing would force you to buy at reduced prices. Although there are no guarantees, buying low and selling high is a terrific investment strategy!

Donate Appreciated Securities – Anyone charitable minded may have a perfect opportunity to meet donation goals and double their tax savings using appreciated securities during a market high. Provided you have owned the security for at least a year, you can donate the asset and use the current market value as a deduction on your taxes. You also avoid paying capital gains tax on the asset if you had sold it. This could be a significant tax savings on stocks purchased during a market low.

Exercise Stock Options - Stock compensation is an important tool of corporations today in attracting and retaining key employees. Many executives find a significant portion of their compensation being paid in the form of stock options. A market high may be an excellent time to exercise some of your vested stock options if your company stock participated in the market rally. Stock options come in two forms: non-qualified stock options (NQSOs) and incentive stock options (ISOs). Both forms come with expiration dates and price targets, but they differ significantly in their tax treatment. Be sure to consult your tax adviser before taking action.

Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) strategy - Withdraw company stock from your 401(k) and, instead of rolling it into an IRA, transfer it to a taxable brokerage account. This strategy avoids paying ordinary income taxes (maximum rate 39.6 percent) on the stock's net unrealized appreciation and turns it into a capital gain (maximum rate of 20 percent). There are strict rules to follow so consult a financial adviser who is experienced with this transaction before proceeding.

Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 reinstated the ability to make a QCD through Dec. 31, 2013. A QCD allows individuals over age 70½ to directly transfer up to $100,000 from an IRA account to one or more charities. These transfers can be done using appreciated securities and are credited toward the IRA owner’s required minimum distribution for the year.

Stop Timing the Market – The Great Panic in 2008 and 2009 scared many investors out of stocks entirely. The past four years may have been a missed opportunity as these investors waited on the sidelines for the right time to get back in. You will never know when the stock market is going to go down or when it will recover. The good news is you don’t have to know. Devise a solid financial plan using an asset-allocation strategy that divides your money between a diversified equity portfolio and fixed income. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to take advantage of stock market volatility. The famous investor Peter Lynch said "Far more money has been lost by investors preparing for corrections, or trying to anticipate corrections, than has been lost in corrections themselves."

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - Housing Strategies for Seniors

People are living longer today. The century-long expansion in the world’s population that is 65 and older is the product of dramatic advances in medical science and healthy lifestyles. Currently, 13 percent of the U.S. population is 65 and older, up from 4 percent in 1900. As baby boomers turn 65 in higher and higher annual numbers, it is estimated that one in five Americans will be over age 65 and about 5 percent over 85. All this calls for growing care and services for the elderly population and pre-planning for lifestyles in the future.

The senior housing industry has been growing dramatically over the last 15 years as adult children look for smart solutions to their parents’ needs, whether physical or social. Alternatives for Seniors offers a number of things to consider when choosing lifestyle options for the older generation:

• Location. Keeping your parents close to home should not be the number one consideration. Although it is important that the community be convenient for family and friends to visit, being close to amenities they need and trust will make their senior living experience rewarding and more fulfilling.
• Type of community. Visiting to make sure the current residents have similar interests, backgrounds and values will allow for a more enriching life in the golden years. Many communities invite prospective residents to tour their community and enjoy lunch with the community, which is a wonderful way to ascertain if the culture is a fit. Many communities offer a weekend stay to experience more fully what the community has to offer.
• Staff. Is the staff appropriately dressed, personable and outgoing? Do the staff members treat each other in a professional manner? Does the staff call residents by name and interact warmly? The answers to these questions will determine quite a bit toward whether the community is right for your loved one.
• Medical needs. Does the community have on-site medical supervision? If not, is there an agency that is associated with the community that can help when needed?

Finding and choosing a housing option for an aging loved one can be a difficult process. Be sure to keep seniors' needs as your top priority in order to find a community that properly suits them.


Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - The Cheapest Ways To Get Rid Of Roaches

Do you have roaches?  Are you sure?  Roaches, especially if you have an infestation, generally come out at night.  So it is entirely possible to not know if you have roaches - especially if it is just a few of them.   Roaches are nasty. Then carry dysentery, then get into your food, your clothes - everything.  So it is important to do a little investigating to make sure that your home is free of roaches - especially at night.

You should do as much as you can to prevent roaches.  Here are a few ways you can do that:

•do not leave any standing water in your home - around your sinks and tubs etc.
•thoroughly clean everything, including any food and crumbs that are left by your stove, your floors, around your microwave and refrigerator
•clean your cabinets and drawers inside and out with soapy water
•always clean your dirty dishes, do not leave them on the countertops or in your sink

Your home can be spotless and you can still have roaches.  Here are a few ways that homeowners just like you have successfully gotten rid of roaches.

1.  Set traps.  Put them in dark locations like under your sinks and your refrigerator, behind your stove, in the back of your cabinets (just make sure that you keep them out of reach of your pets and children).  They will fill up quickly so you need to make sure and check them daily and replace as needed.

2.  Boric Acid.  This will paralyze and kill roaches.  Just mix boric acid with water and flour and put it in a jar at the back of your cabinet and in known roach hangouts (again keep away from children and pets).  The flour attracts the roaches and the boric acid will eat away at their exoskeleton and kill them.

3.  Bayer Advanced Home Pest Plus Germ Killer.  Some people swear by this stuff so it is worth giving it a try.  You can find this product at just about any home improvement store.

4.   Great Stuff Pest Control Expanding Foam Sealant.  This is a can of foam that you can apply to open spaces around your plumbing or any areas that a roach could gain entry to your home.  It will expand as you apply it and fill in the gaps and cracks to keep roaches out.

5.  ADVION Roach Gel Bait by Dupont.  This product gets the highest reviews from homeowners.  Depending on where you live, you may have to purchase it online.  But talk to your local pest control company, they may be able to sell you a reasonable supply for your particular needs.

I hope you have found this information helpful and can put it to good use.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, call your realtor and ask them for a list of available homes in your area.  Your realtor would be more than happy to help you through the entire buying and selling process from start to finish and will be there for you every step of the way.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - Rent or Buy? How to Make the Right Decision

With persistently low interest rates and desirable prices—even bargains in some locations—there are a lot of great reasons to buy a home in the current real estate market. However, deciding whether to buy or rent is a serious, often complicated decision, which should be weighed carefully.

A professional, experienced real estate agent can help guide you through a rent vs. buy analysis based on your particular circumstances. In the meantime, the American Bankers Association (ABA) suggests asking yourself the following critical questions when considering a home purchase:

1. How much can you afford to put down? Can you afford the monthly payment? A mortgage down payment of 5 - 20 percent of the selling price is typical, but can vary depending on the situation. The size of the down payment will impact the monthly cost. Assess your financial health, determine how large of a down payment you can afford and consider if you can then afford the monthly cost.
2. What other debt do you have? Consider all of your current and expected financial obligations and ensure you are able to make all the payments. Aim to keep total rent or mortgage payments plus other credit obligations less than 35 - 40 percent of your monthly income. If you can't keep payments below that, you may be better off renting for a while or searching for a more affordable home.
3. What is my credit score? Can I qualify for a good interest rate? A high credit score indicates strong creditworthiness, which qualifies you for better interest rates on a mortgage. Maxing out your credit lines and paying bills late will lower your credit score, and the impact of a credit score on interest rates can be significant. For instance, a borrower with a score of 760 could pay nearly 2 percentage points less in interest than someone with a score of 620. That equates to over $3,000 less in mortgage payments each year. If your credit score is low, you may want to delay buying a home and take steps to raise your score.
4. How much will taxes, monthly maintenance or other fees cost? Owning a home means you will have to pay real estate taxes and other costs like insurance and maintenance. However, owning a home can bring tax savings at the end of the year. Remember to factor in these costs and incentives. Renters have neither these costs nor tax advantages.
5. How many years will I stay here? Generally, the longer you plan to live someplace, the more it makes sense to buy. Over time, you can build equity in your house. For renters, there is no equity or investment value. Yet, renters have greater flexibility to move as they don't have to worry about finding new tenants.

If it turns out that it may be better to wait a bit before buying a home, keep in close contact with your real estate agent, who can help you make the move to homeownership as soon as possible.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

Helena Talbot's blog - 5 Great Tips to Close the Deal

In our market, competition for buyers is high and sometimes the seller may need to look at sweetening the pot, so to speak, to get the deal done.

As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, sellers often ask me what they can do to help make their home stand out among the sea of homes currently listed. The following are five creative ideas that I believe might just help close the deal.

1. Offer a Decorating Allowance
   There may be a buyer that likes your home but just has different decorating tastes. To seal the deal, offer a decorating allowance (for painting, new carpets or wallpaper). You can also offer cash at closing, or put money in escrow to reimburse decorating and remodeling expenses made within 90 days of closing, up to a maximum amount.
2. Do a Pre-Sale Inspection 
   This actually works for both the seller and the buyer. By having a whole house inspection done before listing the home, you get a chance to address any issues before prospects see the home. That means you increase the home's salability. Display the report during open houses and highlight the repairs that have already been addressed. It's like seeing the repair history when you buy a used car; it makes you feel better about making an offer because you know the car is in good shape and exactly what has been repaired in the past. By having the home inspected before listing it, people don't have to guess what kind of condition it is in -- they can see it in writing.
3. Offer a Home Warranty 
   A home warranty reassures the buyer that the property is in top condition and gives them comfort knowing that certain future repairs will be covered by insurance. Buyers fear that as soon as they buy the house, the dishwasher, dryer or stove will go on the fritz. A home warranty is an inexpensive way to offer peace of mind to the buyer.
4. Cover Closing Costs 
   Sometimes, it takes a little nudge to close the deal. You can offer to pay the buyer's half of the title and escrow fees or prepaid interest charges. Paying the points on the loan may also be a tax deduction for you. Many lenders may limit how much of the closing costs you can pay, but if the buyer is short on cash, offering to pay some closing costs can make a difference.
5. Offer Seller Financing 
   There are many ways to offer seller financing. Options include putting funds in escrow to cover several months of mortgage payments, buying down the mortgage rate or carrying a second mortgage to cover the down payment. It is wise not to offer seller financing unless you have consulted a real estate attorney and your real estate agent. Make sure the buyer has good credit. Although this is the least attractive option to the seller to get a deal closed, sometimes it takes creativity and going the extra mile to get your home sold.

Ispecialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  

For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.