Charlottesville Real Estate

UNDER CONTRACT!

1608 Greenleaf Lane

Charlottesville

Charming City Home is now under contract!

Are you considering a move?  Let me put my skill set to work for you.  Contact me today!

Tags: Charlottesville Homes, Charlottesville Real Estate

3 Lawn Chemicals Charlottesville Homeowners Should Know About

Are you the kind of homeowner who takes pride in your lawn? Then you already know how tenacious some insects, critters and weeds can be.

So just go to the lawn and garden section of your local hardware store and buy some chemical relief, right? Hold on a minute – there’s a better way.

Before you go shopping for poisons and weedkillers, vist  www.csrees.usda.gov. That’s where you’ll find your county’s extension office, and a list of recommended chemicals for your geographic area. The site will also tell you what kind of insects your yard could have, so you’ll know how to properly treat your problem.

Among the most widely recommended chemicals to control pests and weeds are:

• Talstar. Available in both granule and concentrate, Talstar is relatively easy to apply and treats a wide variety of pests for about 2-3 months after application, lasting longer than competitive chemicals like Dursban and Diazinon, according to www.pestcontrol.com. These pests include molecrickets, chinch bugs, and grubs which can invite problems like moles and mice. In granule form, Talstar is about as small as a grain of sand which allows the chemical to fall between blades of grass making it less likely to harm pets and children.

• Acephate 75. More for ant control, Acephate 75 works well on fire ants, harvester ants, and imported fire ants according to www.pestmall.com. Application in granule form is direct; you can pour the pellets on up to 108 mounds and treatment usually lasts an entire season. Also when mixed with water, you can use one pound of Acephate to cover an entire acre, not bad for less than $30.

• Drive 75. A change from pesticide to herbicide- Drive 75 is perfect for weeds and aggressive grasses, according to www.rosecare.com. This chemical takes care of a wide variety of problems including dandelion, crabgrass, and barnyardgrass while protecting highly favorable grasses like Bermuda. Though pricey, a pound can cost up to $160, this chemical will go a long way; 1.5 tablespoons will cover about 1000 feet.

With all chemicals, strictly follow the directions as listed on the container. Be sure to use adequate eyewear and protective clothing, and keep all chemicals safely away from children and pets.  Store surpluses in a safe location. Make sure your containers are sound, so that no leaks might contaminate your storage, garage, or any area of your home. For more information, visit www.pestproducts.com.

Tags: Charlottesville Homes

Selling Tips in a Buyer’s Market

A buyer’s market means it’s the seller’s turn to be flexible, especially with sale terms. Purchase price, closing dates, move-in dates, storage, appliances, window treatments, points and fees may all require a little negotiation. Whatever the terms, don’t let personal feelings stand in the way of a good deal.

The basics

In a buyer’s market, curb appeal, cleanliness, overall good condition and updates are especially crucial. Any little flaw should be taken care of before the first buyer drives up.

• Attend open houses in your neighborhood to see what “sell-ready” really looks like. If you’re shy, ask your Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate sales associate to walk you through a few sell-ready examples.
• Back home, start with the exterior to ensure you’re making a good first impression. Reseed or throw down some turf on lawn patches, change the lights in the lamppost, and if necessary, reset the walkway stone.
• Clean the interior beyond your standards. Even if they are impeccable, rent an industrial carpet cleaner or hire a professional cleaning service. Brighten the interior ambience with light fixture updates, as new lighting is one of the most inexpensive and noticeable improvements you can make prior to listing.
• Fix leaky faucets and make sure the water pressure is strong in both the kitchen and bathrooms.
• If necessary, a great way to improve the appearance of your home is to paint. Use only neutral colors that can easily lend themselves to different décor and styles of furniture.

Don’t reject low offers; negotiate

• Don’t dismiss lower-than-expected offers. Instead, consider buyer incentives that help you meet your asking price. Offer to pay the buyer’s closing costs, moving costs or loan origination fee. These can help the buyer with upfront costs. As well, you may consider offering a limited home warranty that covers HVAC systems and some appliances for a definitive period of time.
• Be careful of purchase offers that are contingent on the buyer selling their home first. Their home may be in a softer market than yours and you could be in for a long wait. Be sure that the purchase agreement includes a contingency-release clause. This way you’ll be able to sell if another buyer comes along.
• Work with your Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate agent to find creative solutions to make a deal come together. The purchase price is just part of the deal. Anything that makes your property stand apart from the competition will give it an edge in a buyer’s market.

Today’s Charlottesville Real Estate market has opportunities for YOU!  Considering a move in the greater Charlottesville area, contact Todd today!

Tags: Albemarle Homes, Charlottesville Homes, Charlottesville Homes for sale, Charlottesville market update, Charlottesville Real Estate, Charlottesville real estate market update

Just Listed in Springridge/Forest Lakes

Move in Ready Home in Springridge

$479,000

Great opportunity in the sought after Springridge Community in Forest Lakes. The spacious and open floor plan features a dramatic 2 story foyer, hardwood floors, over sized windows, upgraded trim package, GAS heat, 9 ft. ceilings, and large rooms. Private wooded rear yard. Complete property details, photos, and visual tour under Featured Real Estate.
Call me today for a tour!

Tags: Charlottesville Homes, Charlottesville Homes for sale, Forest Lakes, Homes in Forest Lakes

Just Listed, Forest Lakes

This home adjoins a large common area.

4 Bedrooms
2.5 Baths
2672 Finished Square Feet
832 Unfinshed Square Feet
Large Walk out terrace level
$419,000

Spacious colonial home with a backyard that adjoins lush and EXPANSIVE COMMON AREA. Natural light floods the open interior through large windows. 9 foot ceilings, hardwood floors, gas heating, 3 walk in closets, and master bedroom with attached sitting area make this home special. The kitchen has brand new stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Large deck w/ retractable awning. Large walk out terrace level with roughed in plumbing for future expansion. One Year Home Warranty is included. COMPLETE PROPERTY DETAILS, VISUAL TOUR, AND PHOTOS are located in Featured Real Estate. Contact me today for an appointment.

Tags: Charlottesville Homes, Charlottesville Real Estate, forest lakes homes, forest lakes homes for sale