Helena Talbot’s blog – Getting Your Landscaping Ready For The Fall

It's that time of year again when you must start preparing your landscaping for the fall.  There are several annual maintenance chores that need to be performed about six to eight weeks before the first hard freeze if you want your home to look as beautiful in the spring as it does now.  Here are a few tips to help get you started.

1.  Purchase your winter grass, Fescue and winter rye are the preferred grasses for most homeowners.  However, you shouldn't plant your winter grass until the temperatures will consistently remain below 80 degrees.  

2.  You'ill need to apply a slow release fertilizer to your lawn.  This will help your lawn look better once spring rolls around. 

3.  You will also need to apply a pre-emergent treatment to your lawn to help prevent those tough to get rid of weeds in the spring.  

4.  Additionally, you should also apply a post emergent treatment to your lawn towards the end of the year for an extra layer of protection against those pesky spring weeds.  

5.  It's a good idea to educate yourself about the different types of herbicides on the market before you begin applying anything to your lawn.  There are some herbicides that only treat particular types of weeds and they won't hurt your lawn in the process.  However, there are other types of herbicides that will kill anything and everything in their path.  Therefore, if you want to just kill the weeds and preserve your grass, you will need to read the bottle carefully before treating your lawn.  If you need some assistance, don't hesitate to talk to someone at your local home improvement store for advice.  

6.  Trim and thin out your trees and the underbrush of all your bushes.  Keeping your trees and bushes trimmed and clean will help to keep them to continue growing strong and healthy, as well as, help them resist disease.

7.  While you're getting your lawn ready for the winter, you may want to take a few minutes to check the exterior of your house.  Look for holes and cracks that need to be patched in order to keep out any unwanted critters.  

We hope you have found this information helpful.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, contact your realtor for a complementary comparative market analysis of your neighborhood and a list of available homes in the location of your choice.  Your realtor would be more than happy to assist you every step of the way.  

I specialize 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 – 11 Ways to Move on a Budget

Whether you are planning an out-of-state move, or even moving across town, the costs associated with moving your possessions from one location to another can be a significant burden, especially given today’s economy. If you are planning on moving during the busy summer season, the following tips from Two Men and a Truck will help you save both time and money. 

1. Pack all items into boxes and tape all boxes closed with packing tape. Do not use duct, Scotch or masking tapes.

2. Label all boxes by room and contents to save time when movers unload them from the truck into your new home.

3. To reduce load time, as you pack your boxes, take them to the garage or to a common area on the main floor. 

4. Disassemble and reassemble items such as beds, cribs, entertainment units, etc., yourself.

5. Make sure all electronics are disconnected and wires are removed or taped tightly to the item.

6. Be prepared for the movers. Packing or disassembling items while the movers are present will increase load time and costs.

7. Move all miscellaneous unboxed items such as lamps, pictures, toys, yard tools, etc., yourself.

8. Disconnect washers/dryers/refrigerators and other large appliances to save time.

9. Reserve ample parking for the moving trucks, as long walks add to the load and unload time.

10. Make sure there is a clear walkway for the movers to get to and from the truck.

11. Be at the new location on the day of the move so movers know where to place furniture and other items.

I specialize 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 Reasons to Reduce Your Home Price

While the market is on the rebound, if you’re selling, you know that numbers matter when it comes to price. But how do you know if your price is too high? And when should you reduce?

Many real estate professionals believe that if the price is right, your home will sell, even in a down market. However, the keyword here is “right.” Below are five signs that may mean you need to reduce your asking price:

1. You’re drawing few viewers. Your house has been on the market for a while, but you haven’t had many buyers check it out.

2. You have viewers, but no offers. In opposition to No. 1, you’ve had a handful of buyers look, but no offers have been made.

3. Your home has been on the market longer than comparable homes. Make sure your home is priced comparably.

4. You can’t make upgrades. If you’re on a deadline (moving for a new job?) and you don’t have time to make upgrades—like an updated kitchen or a new roof—you may want to lower your price to entice buyers who know they will have to make those changes themselves.

5. The competition has changed. Keep up-to-date with your local market. Keep an eye on comparable homes, and check out newly added listings. Just because your home was priced comparably two months ago doesn’t mean it is still comparable today.

The right price can fluctuate, and both you and your agent need to stay on top of your local market to make sure your home is still in the right range. However, be wary of dropping your price too often.

Buyers may wonder if something is wrong with the house, or try and push your price even lower. Ideally, you want one price reduction. If you need to make more, consider pulling your home off the market for a few weeks and then putting it back on at a lower price

I specialize 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 - Smart Lighting Choices for Inside and Out

No matter how great a room looks during the day, the right lighting makes all the difference at night. Effective lighting can even bring the not-so-favorite areas of your home to life, whether it’s indoors or out. The right type of lighting can make a difference not only in mood and atmosphere, but in efficiency and cost as well.

The U.S. Department of Energy offers the following guide to lighting options. Consider these options before remodeling an interior room or updating an outdoor area:

• Incandescent bulbs – The most common type of home lighting, incandescent bulbs light instantly, provide good light and color rendition, and may be dimmed as desired. Although they are the least expensive to buy, their short life and low efficacy compared to other lights may make them more expensive in the long run.

• Fluorescents – These bulbs use 25% to 35% of the energy used by incandescents and last about ten times longer. Improvements in technology have eliminated the flicker and noise associated with old fluorescents, delivering color temperature and color rendition comparable to incandescents. This lighting is great for kitchens and workrooms.

• Compact fluorescent lights (CFL) – These curly looking bulbs produce the same light as incandescents at just 20% of the power. They are a great choice for your lamps in most living areas.

• Halogen lights – Burning brighter and hotter than incandescent bulbs, halogen lights produce brilliant white light and have a longer service life. But they are more expensive and their hotter temperature could be hazardous in certain areas.

• High intensity discharge lights – These provide the highest efficacy and longest service life of any lighting type, and can save 75% to 90% of lighting energy when they replace incandescent bulbs. Because they take a few minutes to produce light when first turned on, they are best for areas where they stay on for hours at a time.

• Outdoor solar lighting – These lights are easy to install, are virtually maintenance free, and provide totally free electricity. Using solar cells, they convert sunlight into electricity, which is stored for use at night.

I specialize 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 an Appraisal Can Help Sell Your Home

While it’s standard practice for real estate professionals to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help price your home correctly for sale, you may also want to discuss with your agent the possibility of investing in an appraisal before you put your home on the market. 

Appraisals have long been a part of the transaction process for home buyers, however, pre-sale appraisals for home sellers have risen in popularity as a way to help confirm that your home is listed at the best possible price. 

A home appraiser will compare the condition of your house in relation to the comparable properties and will give you a reasonably good idea where your house fits in relation to recently sold properties. 

An appraisal can range in length from two pages to more than 100 and will include details about the house, a description of the neighborhood and side-by-side comparisons of similar properties. 

The appraisal report will also contain an evaluation of the area’s real estate market, notations of major problems with the property that will affect its value, and an estimate of the expected time it will take to sell the property. This also gives you a chance to correct problems before officially putting your house on the market—a sure-fire way to ensure a quicker sale.

Choosing the right appraiser is critical, however—whether you are selling or buying a home. Work with your agent to select an appraiser who understands the nuances of your particular neighborhood, as prices can vary significantly based on school district and street location.

The Appraisal Institute offers the following tips for consumers, providing important guidance for homeowners and buyers seeking to ensure their sales are completed in a timely manner:

• Make sure a qualified appraiser is hired (such as a designated SRA, SRPA or MAI member of the Appraisal Institute). The lowest priced appraiser does not necessarily equate with the most qualified.
• Accompany the appraiser during the inspection of the property, if possible. The more active of a participant you are in the process, the more you will understand it and be able to catch any errors.
• Request a copy of the appraisal report. Federal law requires that you receive a copy of the appraisal within 30 days.
• Appeal the appraisal if appropriate. Market conditions do change, especially in these economic times. If you feel that new information may change the appraisal, be sure to contact them.
• Have your agent ask the lender to order a second appraisal by a qualified and designated appraiser.
• File legitimate complaints with appropriate state board or professional appraisal organizations.

Remember, one doesn’t need to agree with the outcome of an appraisal. A home appraisal, no matter how scientific, still ends up being the opinion of the appraiser and, to some degree, a judgment call. However, the appraisal, when combined with your agent’s expertise on market conditions, will be a powerful way to determine the very best price for your home.

I specialize 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 Pros And Cons Of Buying A Short Sale

Before we begin, let's define the term short sale.  What exactly is a short sale?  A short sale is when a seller attempts to sell their home for less than they owe.  The seller will then submit the offer to their lender. If the lender agrees to accept the negotiated offer,  this is now considered a short sale. 
Before buying a short sale, you will need to do enough due diligence to educate yourself on how a short sale works in an effort to determine if a short sale is right for you. 

The Pros And Cons Of Buying A Short Sale

Pros:
• A short sale will usually save you up to 10% below the current market value. 
• A buyer  has some disclosure protections on a short sale home.  When you buy a foreclosure, the bank will not provide you with a home disclosure report.  However, when you buy a short sale, you should receive a home disclosure report.
• A short sale is usually in better condition than a foreclosure.  Most foreclosures have been sitting vacant for six months or quite possibly for years.  A home that has been sitting vacant  will generally require more repairs due to the home being neglected for long periods of time. 

Cons:

• A short sale can take from 30 days to six months or more to complete the entire process depending on the issues that are involved with all of the participating parties.  Therefore, you will need to have the time and flexibility that is required when buying a short sale.
• Once your offer has been accepted by the seller, it will still have to be approved by the lender.
• Even if your offer was accepted, sometimes the seller may still be receiving other offers .
• If the seller didn't make an agreement with the lender to forgive the balance, the buyer could receive a deficiency judgment from the lender after the closing.
• If the lender does forgive the balance, the buyer could still be liable for the property tax  on the unpaid balance.

If you're thinking about buying a short sale home, consider using a realtor that has experience in dealing  with the short sale processes and one who knows what is required in order to buy a short sale.    Otherwise,  after many months of struggle, you may find yourself without the home you were trying to purchase.  Now you have to start the process all over again.  

Buying a short sale is not something you want to learn as you go.  So talk with your realtor about the pros and cons of buying a short sale.  He has  years of experience and will be a valuable resource in helping you decide if buying a short sale is right for you.

I specialize 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- Licensed in Virginia. 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 - What Not To Do When Selling Your Home

Now that it's time to sell your home, you're probably trying to make sure you get everything right.  You don't want to make any mistakes that could cost you a top dollar sale.  However, there are many common mistakes that sellers often make.  Not because they don't know any better, but because they truly believe they are right despite what their realtor is telling them.  Here are some of the most common seller mistakes that could easily be avoided.

1.  Don't overprice your house.  We know you have lived in and loved your house and you're probably emotionally attached to it on many different levels.  However, no matter how much you have put into the house or how many upgrades you have completed or how much you owe on it, your home is only worth what the market is willing to pay for it.  Even if yours is the best house on the block.  

2.  You must remove all clutter and all personal items.   Your buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in your home and they can't do that if they see your personal decor and your family pictures, etc. all around the house.  You need to keep it as neutral as possible.  Additionally, by keeping everything to a minimum, you will make your house appear bigger and cleaner.  So go ahead and pack up anything you aren't using and store it until you are ready to move.  You have to pack anyway and this is a great way to get a  jump on things.

3.  Be prepared for lowball offers.  Lower than asking price offers are inevitable.  You will receive lowball offers but don't get offended and whatever you do don't ignore them.  This is your chance to negotiate a better offer.  You can't blame the buyer.  Some sellers will accept a lowball offer if they are in a desperate situation.  But that doesn't mean you have to.   Just take some time and try to get the buyer up to a price that is agreeable to both of you.

4.  If something is broken - fix it.  And that means everything!  Never neglect to fix something that is broken no matter how small it is.  The minute your buyer sees something that needs to be repaired, they will begin to look for anything else that may be wrong with your house.  Additionally, it will cause them to wonder just how well you have maintained the house over the years.  Once the buyer is in this mindset, it's very difficult to change it back.

5.  Don't skimp on the marketing.  About 80% of homebuyers will start their home search on the internet. The internet offers them thousands of options from which to choose.  If you only have a few low quality pictures of your home and most every other ad has plenty of high quality pictures, as well as, virtual tours; which ads do you think they are going to click on?  Yep, that's right - the ones with the great pictures and virtual tours.  Talk to your realtor about how to get the most out of your advertising.

Selling your home doesn't have to be a chore.  Allow your realtor to guide you in the right direction.  Your realtor has the experience to sell your home quickly and to help get you the highest selling price possible. Therefore, take his advice and know that he is doing everything in your best interest. 

I specialize 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- Licensed in Virginia. 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 Pros And Cons Of Buying Your Next Home

To lease or to buy - that is the question.  This dilemma is a sticking point for many people.  But the truth is that there isn't a one size fits all answer.  Whether you should lease your next home or buy your next home can only be determined by making a list of pros and cons based on your family's current needs.  

Below are some of the pros and cons of buying your next home versus leasing your next home.  You can take these issues and add your own to the list as well.  These pros and cons will assist you in making the right decision.

Pros:

•You can claim your mortgage interest as a deduction on your taxes.
•With each mortgage payment, you will be building equity in your home.
•Mortgage interest rates are at an all time low.
•You can customize and change your home to suit your lifestyle.
•You may have a yard for you, your children and your pets to enjoy.
•You will have pride of ownership and will have something of your very own to call home.
•If you buy a home that is below market value, you could have a larger return on your investment in the long term.
•In most cases, owning your own home will offer you more privacy.
•Owing your own home will help you build your credit as long as your mortgage payments are being made on time.

Cons:

•You will have routine maintenance and repairs that will need to be performed.
•Buying a home is a serious financial commitment. You can't just break your lease and move out whenever you feel like it. You will have to take the time to sell your house before you can move.
•Not all homes increase in value. So you must weigh the risks before making a commitment.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will make in their lifetime and the decision to buy is one that shouldn't be taken lightly.  Do some research and take all the time you need in order to make an educated decision about whether to lease or to buy your next home.

Call your real estate agent and let him know that you're thinking about moving but haven't decided whether to lease or buy.  Your realtor will be a great resource in helping you make your final decision.  He will supply you with all the information you need in order to find the option that is best suited to your family's current needs.

I specialize 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- Licensed in Virginia. 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 - Six Questions You Must Ask Your Real Estate Agent

Finding the right real estate agent can mean the difference between a quick sale or not making a sale at all.  Therefore, it's imperative that you ask your potential real estate agent some qualifying questions before you make any type of commitment.   Below are a few questions you must ask if you want to find a reputable, qualified realtor to sell your home quickly and effectively.

1.  Do you have any references?  Always check the references of the person you're thinking about hiring.  If they aren't good, find another realtor.  Don't just settle for the first realtor that comes along, unless your research proves they are in fact the most qualified.

2.  What issues do you see with my home?  A seasoned realtor will be able to quickly spot the potential drawbacks of your home.  And an honest realtor will be willing to be upfront with you and discuss the drawbacks and how they would overcome them.  If a realtor doesn't point out any flaws, it could be they're inexperienced or they 're just trying to get the contract to sell your home.  You need to find a realtor who will be upfront and honest with you and one who can communicate effectively with you at all times.  

3.  How many clients do you have currently?  If you find a realtor that currently has 50 listings, his time may be spread too thin and he may not have enough time to spend marketing your home.  Additionally, if you find a realtor that has too few clients, it could be that he doesn't have many referrals.  Or it could be that he is new and inexperienced.  In either case, you will have to weigh the facts in order to decide if that person is right for you.  

4.  Will you provide me with a CMA (comparative market analysis?)  An experienced realtor will come to your first appointment with a CMA already pre-prepared for you.

5.  Is the area growing or declining?   A good realtor should be familiar with the area and its current trends.  In addition, a seasoned realtor should be able to spot the signs of a neighborhood that is in decline and offer some recommendations to you.  

6.  How will you market my home?  Your realtor should perform all the marketing tasks that it takes to sell your home quickly.  That includes listing your home on MLS and as other many internet sites as possible.  They should also have quality pictures and virtual tours taken.  And have printed color flyers and brochures available.  Additionally, they should perform as many open houses as necessary.  If your realtor tells you they don't do open houses, consider finding another realtor.  

Finding the right realtor to sell your home is one of the most important decisions you will need to make.  Hiring the wrong realtor could cost you thousands of dollars and the loss of potential buyers.   Therefore, you should take all the time you need to make an educated decision about who you want representing you and your home.  

I specialize 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- Licensed in Virginia. 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.