Helena Talbot's blog - Avoid These Costly Central Air Mistakes

Air conditioning is almost a necessity for homes in very warm climates – but considering that the cost for running the unit amounts to almost 70 percent of your summer electric bill, it’s wise to avoid the costly mistakes that can lead to excessive outlay.

If a new air conditioning unit is in your future, take these tips from professional installers to help reduce usage and trim costs to a minimum:
• Buy the right size – An oversized unit will not cool any faster, but will run far less efficiently. A too-small unit will not properly cool the space. Don’t guess. Consult with a professional to determine the proper size needed for your home.
• Place it properly – A unit placed on the southwest side of the house will almost always work too hard. Install the air conditioner in a shady spot on the east or north side of the house, where there is less direct sunlight.
• Don’t surround it with plants – Sure, the unit is not pretty, but trying to hide it behind shrubs or other plants will hinder ventilation, clog condenser coils, and make the unit run less efficiently.
• Use a programmable thermostat – Despite rumors to the contrary, it cheaper and more efficient than letting the unit run all day.
• Be careful about closing off unused rooms – Closing the vents and doors of unused rooms can decrease the efficiency of central air conditioning. Consult an expert before you do.
• Use ceiling fans wisely – The air conditioner should be used in tandem with ceiling fans. Make sure the fan Is switched to push air downward (typically counter-clockwise.) The downward airflow creates a ‘wind chill effect,’ which makes you feel cooler.
• Don’t ignore maintenance - Clean or replace filters every two months – more frequently if there is a lot of dust or pet hair in your home. Check and clean the evaporator coil once a year. Run a stiff wire through the drain channels regularly – and check the window seals each year to be sure the cool air is not leaking out.

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 include Leesburg, 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 Foreclosed Home? Top Problem Areas to Look Out For

Today's real estate landscape offers some great buys for savvy real estate consumers, especially when it comes to foreclosure properties. Unfortunately, even though there are already a large number of foreclosures on the market, analysts are predicting that yet another wave of distressed properties will crop up in the coming months.

As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I've consulted with many clients seeking to capitalize on a foreclosure purchase. I always advise them, however, to weigh the pros and cons. While a foreclosure could represent your best chance to get a great deal, make sure you educate yourself about the potential pitfalls of purchasing a distressed property in advance - and what correcting those pitfalls might cost. In most cases, it's not so much about what damage occurred but rather the source of the damage and how long before the problem was addressed.

Here are the top 10 signs that may indicate trouble in a foreclosed home:

1. Unheated house in winter months. If the home has been properly winterized, there's no need for heat. But if the home has not been properly winterized, pipes will burst and cause water damage.
2. Missing sinks, toilets and other fixtures. Make sure they've been properly removed and not ripped from walls and floors.
3. Peeling, bubbling and discolored paint; swelling in walls or ceilings (especially around kitchens and bathrooms), or a musty odor all indicate water damage and, potentially, the presence of moisture and mold.
4. Fungus growth inside cabinets, behind drawers and built-ins. Fungus could mean that there has been water damage. Since water falls down, look for the source above the mold.
5. Blocked drains or pipes will cause future problems and may have already created sewage backups.
6. Black cobwebs, greasy gray residue on walls and/or a strong oily odor. This could point to potential soot damage or a malfunctioning furnace.
7. An older home with extensive renovations. Check with the city for pulled permits in order to get remolding details. If asbestos is present and has been disturbed, be sure it's been remediated by a certified specialist.
8. Excessive painting of every nook, cranny, door and floor may mean that the seller is covering up mold.
9. Discolored subflooring. From the basement, check the subflooring above for stains and small holes, both caused by mold.
10. Air quality. The air quality within a home tells a lot about the home's condition. Be sure to include air and surface testing in your home inspection. It's a few hundred dollars well spent.

There are indeed many great opportunities in today's market, but proper education and preparation are essential to making the right investment.

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 include Leesburg, 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 - Ten Trees That Should Never Be Planted In Your Yard

If you are planning on doing some tree planting, you need to think long term.   You need to think about height, width and how extensive the root system of the trees you like will be.  Many people just run out and buy something that they think they are going to like without ever considering what that tree is going to be like in a few years. Therefore, they have created a nightmare for themselves.  Don't let this be you!
Here are ten trees that you should never plant in your yard.

1.  Silver Maple.  It is a very big, fast growing tree with a shallow root system that will work its way into your sewer system.  Not to mention that it will put cracks in your sidewalks and driveway.

2.  Quaking Aspen.  This is a very nice looking tree with its white bark and attractive leaves.  However, this tree has a root system like none other.  It continually sprouts many, many suckers that try to turn into new trees.  This is a never ending battle and nothing is going to stop it.

3.  Hybrid Poplar.  This is a fast growing tree that will look great in your yard - for a while.  The hybrid poplars are very susceptible to disease and don't have a very long life span - 15 years if they make it that long.

4.  Willow.  Everyone loves a willow.  But no matter how beloved  the willow tree is, it has a very aggressive, water-hungry root system that will take over your drain fields, sewer lines,  your irrigation and anything else that gets in its way.

5.  Eucalyptus.  People love this tree because it can grow up to ten feet in a year.  But this tree can be dangerous because it drops heavy, resin filled branches.  Not to mention the maintenance nightmare you have just created because its bark peels off annually and will have to be cleaned up.

6.  Bradford Pear.  A favorite for many people due to its proportionate shape and its beautiful spring blossoms.  However, this tree, when at its maturity, is prone to splitting and cracking and those blossoms that everyone loves don't exactly smell "good".

7.  Mountain Cedar.  If you are prone to allergies, you already know that the mountain cedar releases tremendous amounts of pollen throughout the cooler months.  This will cause a severe allergic reaction to anyone within miles of this tree.

8.  Black Walnut.  This tree, while beautiful, makes a huge mess!  You will have to add cleaning up walnuts to your fall chores.  In addition, this tree secretes growth inhibiting toxins that will kill anything that is planted near it.

9.  Leyland Cypress.  Most people love this tree because it is fast growing, evergreen and it will create a nice privacy barrier for their house.  However, they require continual trimming and upkeep if you want them to remain healthy.  Additionally, once mature, they can be easily uprooted by a storm and their interiors harbor masses of dried twigs that can create a real fire hazard - so much so that some communities will not allow their homeowners to plant them.

10.  Mulberry.  Last but not least this tree releases massive amounts of pollen, messy fruit and is so dense that nothing will grow underneath it.

I hope you have found this article helpful.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, please call your realtor and they will provide you with everything you need to get you through the entire process seamlessly.

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 include Leesburg, 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 Flu Proof Your Home Like An Expert

Do you know what time it is?  Yep, it's that time of year again.  The time of year when many of us and our families are running to the doctor, missing work and missing out on just about everything else.  Until we get well that it.  But wouldn't it be nice if we could just skip all of that and stay well from the get go?  It sure would!  So let's talk about a few things that can help you stay well throughout the entire flu season.  Yes, I realize that you probably know most of these things - but sometimes we just need some little reminders.

Here are some things you can do to help you and your family flu proof your home like an expert.

1.  Wash your hands frequently.  Frequently being the key word here.  Have you ever seen any of those news clips that show you how many germs are on the items we touch daily?  Yuk!  So wash your hands vigorously using hot water and get a good lather going.  Don't forget in between your fingers, under your fingernails and your fingertips.   And whatever you do - use paper towels not hand towels because hand towels just pass along more germs.

2.  Line your trash cans with plastic bags so you don't have to touch germs when you empty the trash.

3.  Periodically clean your door handles, cabinet handles, refrigerator, mircrowave and faucet handles with rubbing alcohol.

4.  Make sure you sanitize your TV remotes and any other hand held devices you have.

5.  Open your doors and windows from time to time to let some fresh air in instead of breathing the same old stale, germ filled air.

6.  Wash your sheets at least once a week in the hottest water you have and make sure you add some bleach to it as well.  You may need to wash the bed sheets more often if the person that uses that bed has been sick.

7.  Use hand sanitizer frequently.  Especially if you work in an environment where you deal with a lot of people and do a lot of hand shaking.   It is also a good idea to carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you and use it before you begin eating while at a restaurant.

8.  Last but not least - get a flu shot.  You have probably been hearing it all over the news and from your doctor.  Getting a flu shot is the absolute best way to prevent getting the flu.

I hope you have found this article helpful.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, call your realtor to get 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.

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 include Leesburg, 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.

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 include Leesburg, 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 - Ten Trees That Should Never Be Planted In Your Yard

If you are planning on doing some tree planting, you need to think long term.   You need to think about height, width and how extensive the root system of the trees you like will be.  Many people just run out and buy something that they think they are going to like without ever considering what that tree is going to be like in a few years. Therefore, they have created a nightmare for themselves.  Don't let this be you!
Here are ten trees that you should never plant in your yard.

1.  Silver Maple.  It is a very big, fast growing tree with a shallow root system that will work its way into your sewer system.  Not to mention that it will put cracks in your sidewalks and driveway.

2.  Quaking Aspen.  This is a very nice looking tree with its white bark and attractive leaves.  However, this tree has a root system like none other.  It continually sprouts many, many suckers that try to turn into new trees.  This is a never ending battle and nothing is going to stop it.

3.  Hybrid Poplar.  This is a fast growing tree that will look great in your yard - for a while.  The hybrid poplars are very susceptible to disease and don't have a very long life span - 15 years if they make it that long.

4.  Willow.  Everyone loves a willow.  But no matter how beloved  the willow tree is, it has a very aggressive, water-hungry root system that will take over your drain fields, sewer lines,  your irrigation and anything else that gets in its way.

5.  Eucalyptus.  People love this tree because it can grow up to ten feet in a year.  But this tree can be dangerous because it drops heavy, resin filled branches.  Not to mention the maintenance nightmare you have just created because its bark peels off annually and will have to be cleaned up.

6.  Bradford Pear.  A favorite for many people due to its proportionate shape and its beautiful spring blossoms.  However, this tree, when at its maturity, is prone to splitting and cracking and those blossoms that everyone loves don't exactly smell "good".

7.  Mountain Cedar.  If you are prone to allergies, you already know that the mountain cedar releases tremendous amounts of pollen throughout the cooler months.  This will cause a severe allergic reaction to anyone within miles of this tree.

8.  Black Walnut.  This tree, while beautiful, makes a huge mess!  You will have to add cleaning up walnuts to your fall chores.  In addition, this tree secretes growth inhibiting toxins that will kill anything that is planted near it.

9.  Leyland Cypress.  Most people love this tree because it is fast growing, evergreen and it will create a nice privacy barrier for their house.  However, they require continual trimming and upkeep if you want them to remain healthy.  Additionally, once mature, they can be easily uprooted by a storm and their interiors harbor masses of dried twigs that can create a real fire hazard - so much so that some communities will not allow their homeowners to plant them.

10.  Mulberry.  Last but not least this tree releases massive amounts of pollen, messy fruit and is so dense that nothing will grow underneath it.

I hope you have found this article helpful.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, please call your realtor and they will provide you with everything you need to get you through the entire process seamlessly.

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 include Leesburg, 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 Flu Proof Your Home Like An Expert

Do you know what time it is?  Yep, it's that time of year again.  The time of year when many of us and our families are running to the doctor, missing work and missing out on just about everything else.  Until we get well that it.  But wouldn't it be nice if we could just skip all of that and stay well from the get go?  It sure would!  So let's talk about a few things that can help you stay well throughout the entire flu season.  Yes, I realize that you probably know most of these things - but sometimes we just need some little reminders.

Here are some things you can do to help you and your family flu proof your home like an expert.

1.  Wash your hands frequently.  Frequently being the key word here.  Have you ever seen any of those news clips that show you how many germs are on the items we touch daily?  Yuk!  So wash your hands vigorously using hot water and get a good lather going.  Don't forget in between your fingers, under your fingernails and your fingertips.   And whatever you do - use paper towels not hand towels because hand towels just pass along more germs.

2.  Line your trash cans with plastic bags so you don't have to touch germs when you empty the trash.

3.  Periodically clean your door handles, cabinet handles, refrigerator, mircrowave and faucet handles with rubbing alcohol.

4.  Make sure you sanitize your TV remotes and any other hand held devices you have.

5.  Open your doors and windows from time to time to let some fresh air in instead of breathing the same old stale, germ filled air.

6.  Wash your sheets at least once a week in the hottest water you have and make sure you add some bleach to it as well.  You may need to wash the bed sheets more often if the person that uses that bed has been sick.

7.  Use hand sanitizer frequently.  Especially if you work in an environment where you deal with a lot of people and do a lot of hand shaking.   It is also a good idea to carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you and use it before you begin eating while at a restaurant.

8.  Last but not least - get a flu shot.  You have probably been hearing it all over the news and from your doctor.  Getting a flu shot is the absolute best way to prevent getting the flu.

I hope you have found this article helpful.  If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, call your realtor to get 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.

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 include Leesburg, 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.