Helena Talbot’s blog - Do You Need A Realtor A Buyers Agent Or Both

Buying a new home is exciting.  But it is not something that you do every day.  So  learning everything there is to know is difficult if not impossible.  The good news is - you don't have to.  All you need to do is to hire a realtor.  Sounds easy enough.  But wait . . . there are a few things you will need to know before you hire a realtor to help you through the buying process.  

Here is what you need to know about hiring a realtor.  Do you need a realtor,  a buyer's agent  or both?

Not all real estate agents work only for their buyers.   For example:  say you meet a realtor and allow them to show you a few houses and during that time you have given the realtor your price limit and other information about your situation.  You then make an offer on a home  that is $10,000 less than the asking price.  The seller asks your realtor how much they think you are willing to spend.  What do you think that realtor will tell the seller?  

Well, you probably think that "your" realtor will not tell the seller anything because they are your realtor and they are supposed to be in your court right?  Wrong!  Unless, you have signed a Buyers Agreement with your realtor.  If you don't then your realtor is most likely acting as a sub agent to the listing broker who represents the seller.  

A sub listing agent is obligated to the seller to disclose any information that you have given them.  That means they are obligated to give the seller any information they feel might help them get the sale.  So if you make an offer that is lower than what the seller is asking and you have already told your realtor that you have more money and that you would be willing to make a higher offer if necessary; then your realtor is obligated to give that information to the seller.  So  more than likely your offer will not be accepted and you will end up having to make a higher offer if you want that home.  

The bottom line is - if you hire a realtor to represent you - you must get a signed Buyers Agreement.  Otherwise, you may end up paying more than you should have for your new home.   A Buyers Agreement is also an agreement between you and your realtor  that you will not work with any other agent for a designated period of time.  Usually 90 days.  Additionally, this ensures your realtor that you will not buy from anyone else including an FSBO (for sale by owner). 

A good rule of thumb is to never say anything to anyone unless you would be willing to have that information repeated to the seller.  Discretion is always a good policy.

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 - How To Recognize A Home That Will Hold Its Resale Value

Buyers who are looking for a new home are often very excited.  It is that excitement that can sometimes cloud their judgment when it comes to buying a home that will retain its resale value.  So what can you do to make sure that your excitement does not overcome your good judgment and common sense?  

Here are some things to keep in mind when you are trying to buy a home that will retain its resale value.

1.  Location, location, location!  Is this home on a busy street or does it have some other undesirable factor about it?  If so, make sure the price is adjusted accordingly.

2.  Consider all defects that are not correctable.  Things like location, traffic, floor plan etc. Then make sure the selling price reflects these non -correctable items.  Remember, you may have to sell this home with these same defects in the future.  So you don't want to be left holding the bag.

3.  Does this home suit your long term needs.  If so and you plan on living in the house for a very long time, then resale value may not be as big of a determining factor for you.

4.  Don't be bullied.  If you are looking in a hot market, don't overlook the issues that could cause you to lose money if you have to sell in a future market downturn.

5.  Look for a home that has a broad appeal.  A home that is suitable for most people.  One that has a good floor plan and amenities that the majority of people are looking for is important.

6.  Think about the size and the space.  Is this home going to be very expensive to maintain due to its home or yard?  Are there any other factors that could influence someone's decision to buy.

7.  It is best to buy a home that is in good condition -one that someone clearly took the time to maintain over the years.  Routine maintenance is a huge factor when it comes to future repairs. 

8.  Convenience - how convenient is this home to schools, banks, day care centers, shopping, gas and restaurants.

9.  Look for an easy commute - is this home located in an area where the major thoroughfares are easily accessible.  Is there a bus line nearby etc.

10.  Find a home that has a good resale value and not one that is just a good deal.

Talk to your realtor about buying a home that has a good resale value and they will be able to help keep you on the right track.  Resale value should be one of the major deciding factors when buying a home.  Remember, most people do not live in the same house their entire lives.  So plan accordingly!

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 - Don’t Lose The Sale

You are ready to move and have found the perfect home for you and your family.  The only thing left to do is to sell your current home.  Sounds simple right?  Well, it can be, but there are several things that you may be doing that are making your buyers run for the door.

Here are a few surefire ways to lose the sale 
Keep reading so you don't make these common mistakes

• Make sure you are not at home while your buyer is viewing your house.  Don't take this personally.  A buyer will not feel comfortable with you around because they cannot envision themselves living in your home - they will see you living in your home.   The buyer will not be comfortable opening the drawers and closets.  Additionally, your buyer will not feel comfortable talking about what they would like to change about your home in fear of offending you.  The buyer doesn't need you lurking around hanging on to their every word.  Give them the space they need to fall in love with your house.

• Keep your home in tip top shape.  Showing a messy home is a surefire deal breaker.  The buyer may see your messy home and assume that you have not taken care of the routine home maintenance either.   When we say clean - we do not mean stuff everything in the closet - the buyer will be looking there also.  We know your busy and with kids and pets it's hard to keep your house spotless for possibly months at a time.  So talk to your family and have a plan to keep everything as neat and orderly as possible.

• Do not overprice your home thinking that you can lower the price later.  It is a buyers' market right now.  Your buyer has a multitude of homes to choose from and if you overprice your home, potential buyers will not even stop to consider yours, they will be onto the next one that they don't have to work so hard to get.  Talk with your realtor to go over fair market values for your area before deciding on a price.  You don't want to lose out on a serious buyer just because of a few pricing mis-conceptions. 

Any good real estate agent will be able to help you and guide you through the entire sales process from start to finish.  So take advantage of their knowledge and the tools they have available to them to help you sell your home quickly.   

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 - Should I Buy A Home If Interest Rates Rise?

You may ask this question and get ten different answers.    Just because the interest rates have risen does not necessarily mean it is not the right time to buy.  If you hold off, this mistake could cost you thousands.  

 So how do you know when it's ok to buy a home if you know the interest rates are rising?  Well, that is a good question and here are some facts to help you sort through it all.

1.  Consider specialty loan options 

• Hybrid mortgages - this is a mortgage loan that will offer a very low rate for a fixed amount of time, usually 5-7 years, then the loan will revert to an adjustable rate mortgage.  This sounds a bit risky; however, if you are not planning on staying in your current home for more than five years, this is a fantastic option for you

• An ARM  loan with an option that would allow it to be converted to a fixed rate loan when at the borrowers discretion

• An interest only loan - this is a loan that requires you to make payments to the interest only for a set number of years, then it converts to an amortized loan with interest and principal payments each month

2.  Talk to a tax advisor - before you do anything, make sure you talk to your tax advisor about whether or not one of these types of loans is right for you.  

3.  Ask for a Buy Down - this is a fee paid at closing to get a lower interest rate.  Sometimes a motivated seller will be willing to paying some if not all of the buy down just to get the deal.  

4.  Ask the seller to pay some or all of the closing costs.  Quite frequently the seller's closing costs are used as a write off by the buyer.  (Check with your tax advisor before doing this)

5.  Lower prices mean lower loan amounts so don't let higher interest rates chase you off.  With some skillful negotiating your realtor can help you secure an unbelievable deal  saving you loads of money.  So a high interest rate does not have to mean more money.  

Remember, many people drop out of the home buying market when the interest rates go up, but as you can see this could be a very costly mistake.  Some of the best mortgage loans come about when the lenders are competing for your business and when sellers are realizing that there are more homes for sale than there are buyers.  

So talk with your realtor and come up with a game plan to help you find your dream home.  Don't let rising interest rates stop you, use it to your advantage!

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 Best Ways To Get A Short Sale Approved

How many times have you heard someone claiming to be a short sale "specialist" and then tell you the best way to negotiate a short sale was to use a loss mitigation specialist?  Then they will tell you that they use specialized spreadsheets, secret language and inside information etc, etc all to help get you approved.  Well guess what?  It's all hogwash!  

The real experts will not feed you all of that rubbish.   A short sale expert will know that there are several essential things that need to be done to effectively get a short sale approved and that there is never immediate acceptance.  Any short sale expert will have the experience to know what the challenges are and exactly what to expect.  Additionally, a short sale expert will know what tried and true techniques to use to get the job done. 

Here are some tips and tricks to getting your short sale approved.

• Think like a lender - how much is this going to cost them, how can they collect that debt, how can they avoid long term debt
• Follow up - after submitting each short sale package, call the loss mitigator that it was assigned to to make sure they got it
• Continual follow up - lenders are very busy with foreclosure so it is very important that you call every four days or so.  Make sure you are being personable so that you don't come across as someone they will try to avoid; however, you need to be persistent to help keep things moving
• Who owns the loan – Fannie, Freddie, FHA, VA etc, each has their own acceptable percentage value of your property
• Make your offer - then very nicely ask your loss mitagator to order a new interior BPO asap
• Get a title report - to make sure there are no surprises that you didn't know about
• Talk to the loss mitigator - try to find out what value the BPO appraiser turned in.  You may not be able to get them to give you this information but it is definitely worth a try
• Appraised value - 90% is what you should expect to pay 
• Counteroffer - if you cannot get the value that the BPO appraiser submitted, make sure you ask for a counteroffer
• Submit your counteroffers - attach proof with your counteroffers to validate your claims.  You can use the MLS listing to show days on the market, cost of repairs needed, the comps that have a low value and any negative press your area has received.  All of these will act as proof to support your lower offer
• Cash - your loss mitagator will already know this but it doesn't hurt to remind them that you can close more quickly with cash

Remember, lenders don't like to do short sales; however, it is not the worst thing in their book.  So you need to take charge and make an offer they can't refuse.   Show them that you are prepared and that you know what you are doing.  Be as polite and courteous as you can possibly be.  This is the best way to get what you want.

Talk to your realtor, they have been working with short sales for many, many years and they will be your best possible support throughout this entire process.  So team up with someone that has the experience and know how to get the job done and done quickly!

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 - How To Recognize A Home That Will Hold Its Resale Value

Buyers who are looking for a new home are often very excited.  It is that excitement that can sometimes cloud their judgment when it comes to buying a home that will retain its resale value.  So what can you do to make sure that your excitement does not overcome your good judgment and common sense?  

Here are some things to keep in mind when you are trying to buy a home that will retain its resale value.

1.  Location, location, location!  Is this home on a busy street or does it have some other undesirable factor about it?  If so, make sure the price is adjusted accordingly.

2.  Consider all defects that are not correctable.  Things like location, traffic, floor plan etc. Then make sure the selling price reflects these non -correctable items.  Remember, you may have to sell this home with these same defects in the future.  So you don't want to be left holding the bag.

3.  Does this home suit your long term needs.  If so and you plan on living in the house for a very long time, then resale value may not be as big of a determining factor for you.

4.  Don't be bullied.  If you are looking in a hot market, don't overlook the issues that could cause you to lose money if you have to sell in a future market downturn.

5.  Look for a home that has a broad appeal.  A home that is suitable for most people.  One that has a good floor plan and amenities that the majority of people are looking for is important.

6.  Think about the size and the space.  Is this home going to be very expensive to maintain due to its home or yard?  Are there any other factors that could influence someone's decision to buy.

7.  It is best to buy a home that is in good condition -one that someone clearly took the time to maintain over the years.  Routine maintenance is a huge factor when it comes to future repairs. 

8.  Convenience - how convenient is this home to schools, banks, day care centers, shopping, gas and restaurants.

9.  Look for an easy commute - is this home located in an area where the major thoroughfares are easily accessible.  Is there a bus line nearby etc.

10.  Find a home that has a good resale value and not one that is just a good deal.

Talk to your realtor about buying a home that has a good resale value and they will be able to help keep you on the right track.  Resale value should be one of the major deciding factors when buying a home. Remember, most people do not live in the same house their entire lives.  So plan accordingly!

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 - How to Clean Your Way to a Healthier Home

You’ve probably noticed the increasing number of natural cleaning products appearing on supermarket shelves these days. Such products are not only better for the environment, but safer for all those living under your roof as they are virtually free of toxic chemicals. According to consumer service-review website, Angie's List, there is an increase in both consumers seeking out eco-friendly cleaning companies and in professional cleaning companies that offer “green" options.

"Spraying potentially toxic chemical-based cleaners into the air, pouring them down the sink or dumping them in landfills has a negative effect on both our health and our environment," says Angie's List founder Angie Hicks. "Your home no longer needs to smell like bleach or other chemicals to be considered clean. There are plenty of all-natural cleaning products that do an equally effective job, are easy on your pocketbook and are better for you and your family's health and for Mother Earth."

Many professional housecleaners are relying on biodegradable, non-toxic cleaners like baking soda, white distilled vinegar and some essential oils with disinfectant qualities (lemon, tea tree oil and eucalyptus, for example) to clean and disinfect. Distilled vinegar will kill nearly all bacteria with which it comes into contact, while baking soda is great for scrubbing out stains and even freshening up carpets and sink drains.

Some cleaning companies make a concerted effort to find other ways to further reduce their environmental impact, like cleaning and reusing towels and rags instead of using and throwing away power towels or sponges. 

"As awareness for eco-friendly cleaning increases, many cleaning companies are turning exclusively to non-toxic products or are willing to supply them at a customer's request," Hicks explains. "Homeowners interested in hiring an eco-friendly housecleaner should still do their research before they hire and ask what products the housecleaner plans to use. Also check that the housecleaner is licensed, insured and bonded. That protects the company and the homeowner in the event an employee is injured on the job or damages property."

Consumers interested in purchasing eco-friendly cleaning products should always read the ingredient list to determine what the product is really made from. Many over-the-counter cleaning products are touted by the manufacturer as being green but still contain chemicals. 

"It's never too late to go green when you clean," Hicks adds. "Box up all those chemicals you no longer want and take them to a local hazardous waste center. Replace them with all-natural cleaning products or by using an eco-friendly cleaning service. Your home will still smell and look great."

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.