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Fairfax County, VA Real Estate News

By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
The housing market in Northern Virginia is piping hot -- so hot in fact that more and more people are doing fixer-uppers again. Come with me in Centreville and explore one of the fixer-uppers that we have going on!As we walk in, we see a chance to make some big changes. The main living area needs work, with old floors and a few signs of use. But the kitchen looks good, with strong cabinets and a practical layout. There's a bit of mold in some spots, but with a thorough clean-up, it could look brand new.Upstairs, the potential of this place really shines through. The bedrooms are spacious, giving plenty of space to relax and make your own. The new windows bring in lots of natural light, making the rooms feel bright and welcoming. While some parts might need a touch-up with paint and smal...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
If you've been following the news, you've probably heard about the recent bombshell dropped by NAR (National Association of Realtors) with the lawsuit settlement. It's been the talk of the town, and understandably, there's a lot of uncertainty about what it all means.As a veteran realtor, I've been closely following this lawsuit for the past year or so, and I want to share some insights with you. In Virginia, we've been preparing for potential changes in how listing agreements are drafted and how compensations are paid. The key thing to remember is that in real estate, everything is negotiable.By July, we expect to have more clarity on the situation. Change can be daunting, but it's something we all need to adapt to. This settlement will impact not just realtors, but also consumers, buy...
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By Dana Hollish Hill, REALTOR * Broker * Coach
(Hollish Hill Group, JPAR Stellar Living)
How Could You Not Love Black Friday?I'm a Jersey Girl at heart and there was nothing better than East Coast Black Friday back in the 80's, 90s and early 2000's. The Hollish women saw Black Friday as a sport and with our 6-foot+ wing spans, we could hold our own no matter how crowded it was on Black Friday.I have cherished memories of those days, including: - $100 off all boots for 1-hour only from 5AM-6AM requiring us to fend off other  buyers to get the styles and sizes we wanted. Boy, could we box out the competition!- Taking our receipts to get free DVD recorders for every $75 spent in the store. Each man in the family received a DVD player that year.- My sister opening a store credit card to get extra all-day savings and deciding to buy every single person in our family a winter coa...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
2024 Conforming & FHA Loan Limits  This week, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) both announced new 2024 loan limits, which affect FHA and conforming loans. This means your buyers will have more flexibility, and possibly lower rates when financing a higher-priced home. Find New Conforming Loan Limits The FHFA provides a free look-up tool that you can share with your prospects. The interactive map allows the user to hover over a county or county equivalent to see applicable 2024 conventional loan limits in that area.  Find New FHA Loan Limits You can find the 2024 FHA loan limits on their maximum mortgage limits page. Both of these are great tools to bookmark! If you have any questions about these changes, I'm glad to help. Reach out t...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
🏡 Embrace the Adventure of Homeownership, Even in the Face of Rising Interest Rates! 🏡✨Hey fellow first-time homeowners! 🎉🔑 We've got some fantastic news to share—YOU are now part of the homeowners' club, and that's a big deal! 🏠✨Now, we know some of you might be thinking about those rising interest rates, but here's the scoop: even in this dynamic market, there's no better time to celebrate your homeownership dreams! 🥳🌟Here's why NOW is a great time:1️⃣ Lock in Your Future: Sure, interest rates might be on the rise, but locking in a mortgage now secures a stable financial future. Over time, you'll likely build equity and come out ahead despite the current rates.2️⃣ Realize Your Goals: Don't let a fluctuating market deter you from achieving your homeownership goals. Owning your own spac...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
As we approach Thanksgiving, it's a moment to pause and reflect on what truly matters. At First Heritage Mortgage, we're reminded of the immense gratitude we have for our community. This Thanksgiving, let's embrace the warmth of family, the joy of friends, and the comfort of home.In the spirit of giving, we extend our heartfelt thanks to you, our valued clients and partners. Your trust and support are the cornerstones of our success. As a Senior Loan Officer, I, Lisa Perry, am especially thankful for the opportunity to help you achieve your homeownership dreams.This season, let's cherish these moments of togetherness and give back in our own ways. Whether it's sharing a meal, lending a helping hand, or simply expressing gratitude, every act of kindness makes a difference.Happy Thanksgiv...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Just another closed listing! Welcome to Home Chronicles, where I showcase the recent properties closed, pending, coming soon, and active listings in the Northern Virginia, by yours truly. This time, we'll take a look at one of the townhouse we recently closed on Discovery Square in Herndon, VA.CLOSED: 3079 Alan Shepard St, Herndon, VANestled in a prime location and surrounded by convenience, this luxurious 4-level townhome is the epitome of elegance and style. One of the standout features of this home is the exquisite wood flooring that graces all four levels. The moment you walk through the door, you'll feel the warm embrace of this inviting space, making you feel right at home.Home DetailsThe main level is a versatile haven, offering a mudroom for easy storage and organization. Additi...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
You already know that lenders review your finances when you apply for a mortgage. That’s why you submit the loan application, providing a complete picture of your financial situation. This allows the lender to assess the risk of the loan, making sure that you can reliably make the monthly mortgage payments.It gets a little more complicated when you dig into all the things your lender has to review, many of them required based on the type of loan program you’re using to finance your home.One calculation that pops up in many loan programs’ requirements is a threshold for the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. We will explain what the LTV ratio measures, why it’s important, and how it can impact your loan and monthly payments. to-value ratio is an assessment of how much money you’re borrowing comp...
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By Holly Weatherwax, A Great Real Estate Experience
( Associate Broker, Momentum Realty)
It is my experience that people are often ready to sell their home when they are sick and tired of taking care of it. The endless maintenance and upkeep is usually what pushes them to contact me and begin the process of getting their home on the market.Given how often I see this scenario, I though it might be helpful to provide some tips for you to consider BEFORE you get to this point. Clean out. Clean out. Clean out. The more space you have, the more stuff you will accumulate. Start the process of getting rid of the things that you no longer use or, in the words of Marie Kondo, which no longer bring you joy. Clean out often. Pick a space weekly (or monthly) and spend a little time cleaning it out. Schedule regular donation pickups so that you know it will leave the house shortly. Join...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
This week's midweek market report is here, with a focus on the Northern Virginia housing market encompassing Fairfax, Loudon, and Prince William counties. Instead of reiterating the low inventory and hot market situation, we'll discuss the key differences observed between the 2022 and 2023 housing markets.Interest Rates: In 2022, we experienced historic low interest rates below 4%. Although 2023 began on a higher note, interest rates have come down to around 6.5-7% depending on factors like down payment, credit scores, and other variables.Buyer Pool: The 2022 market had a large pool of buyers, including renters transitioning to homeowners, first-time buyers, downsizing homeowners, and investors. However, 2023 has seen a significant reduction in the buyer pool due to high interest rates ...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Looking for your dream home? You need not look any further than 13109 Bradley Farm Dr in Herndon, VA! This exquisite single-family home is presently on the market, and you don't want to miss the chance to view it in person.The house has undergone meticulous updates that cover everything from HVAC to flooring, guaranteeing that you'll move into a completely move-in-ready space. You'll adore the home's sun-filled layout, which features a living and dining room combination, a cozy family room with a fireplace, and a remodeled kitchen that's a chef's dream come true. With granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast room with a bay window, this area is the ideal spot to whip up a meal or host guests.The upper level of the home is equally stunning, with a magnificent prim...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
As you begin your homebuying journey, your first concern is probably, “How am I going to finance my house?”If you’ve missed a couple of credit card payments and your credit score is still recovering, or you once filed for bankruptcy, there are still loan options that will allow you to achieve your goal of homeownership.While your credit history does impact which loan programs, you’ll be likely to qualify for, past issues on your credit report don’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to qualify for a loan.I will help you assess your personal financial situation and find the best loan option for you. One of those options might be a non-conforming loan.We will dive into learning what a non-conforming loan is, how they work, and whether one may be the best fit for you. What is a Non-Co...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
The very first step in buying a home is making the decision that you’re ready to buy.  The next step after that is determining how much you can afford and what your financing options are.Getting pre-approved by a lender will help you accomplish both of those. It will also help set you apart from other potential buyers, showing a seller that you’re serious about buying and have the ability to get approved for a loan on the home.Now that you know you need to get pre-approved, you’re probably still left with some questions. What does pre-approval entail? How long does the process take? We will explain all the basics of getting pre-approved for a mortgage below. What Does Mortgage Pre-Approval Mean?You could guess that mortgage pre-approval means just that – you are pre-approved for a home ...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Attention all buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia! Are you in the market for a luxury single-family home? Look no further! Christopher Companies has just announced the much-anticipated release of their new luxury single family homes located just across from Frying Pan Farm Park and in close proximity to the Silver Line Metro.These homes offer a variety of floorplans, ranging from 3400 sq ft to 6200 sq ft, providing options for families of all sizes. While the price ranges have not been officially released, as an almost 2 decades local Fairfax county real estate Realtor  I can guesstimate they will likely start at $1.5 million and above.In addition to the luxurious amenities and convenient location, these homes are also in close proximity to top-rated Fairfax school district  Floris ...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Studies show that it takes a buyer the first eight seconds upon entering the home to make a decision whether to buy the said home or not. First impression matters in the shift of the market. In this buyer-driven market, this means sellers would have to make an effort designing and decluttering the home one of the top priorities among other things.Finding the right agent who understands the local market and pricing the home right from day one are very important, too. These will give them the reason to view the home in the first place. Aside from that, the shorter daylight makes things a bit darker than usual, so make sure that the home is warm and lighted. With that said, being more flexible with the showing is important, too - you're on a timer for each day, so make sure to be at the ri...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
When you're applying for a mortgage, you want to find the lender that will give you the best deal. 🕵️‍ But how do you know what that is? Check out our article that breaks down the difference between APR and interest rates to help you make the most informed decision! To get to a proper comparison, you have to compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges, as the adage goes. So, to help you in that endeavor, we’re setting out to tackle the difference between APR and interest rate.What is an Interest Rate?The interest rate on your loan is the annual cost you’re paying to borrow money from your lender, shown as a percentage. It’s important to note that the interest rate doesn’t reflect any other fees, charges, or costs associated with your loan. What is APR?APR stands for annual percentag...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
JUST LISTED!📍Fairfax, VA🛏️ 3🚿 2/22,070 Sq. Ft.✔️ Remodeled kitchen✔️ Oversized bedrooms✔️ Walk out patio✔️ Large open recreation room✔️ Ample of storage space✔️ Convenient locationContact:📞 (703) 625-4949🌐 www.ritudesai.comFB: @ritudesai.realtorIG: @ritu_desai_realtorYouTube: www.youtube.com/c/RituDesai#newlisting #northernvirginia #forrent #leaselisting #ritudesai #samsonproperties #fairfaxva
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
If the score you received from different sites looks different from the one you are used to seeing, this may be normal. We recommend you check the following: Score model: There are many scoring models, and they may weigh certain information in your reports more heavily than other factors. For example, one scoring model may put more emphasis on total credit usage than others. Because there are varied scoring models, you'll likely have different scores from different providers. Credit report: A credit score is calculated using information from a particular credit report. Each of the nationwide credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian and Equifax) collects similar information, but lenders can choose to report to one, two or all three agencies. Because of this, the information in you...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
Inflation has been in the news and on the minds of just about everyone throughout the past year. Now there’s a new concern emerging – the possibility of a recession.For some, the term recession evokes concern. You may be questioning what this will mean for your finances and for the economy as a whole. For others, this might be your first time living through the possibility of a recession and you may not know what to expect.First, it’s important to understand exactly what a recession is and how it’s measured. With that perspective, we will also cover how it typically affects mortgage interest rates, and what it means for the overall housing market.What is an Economic Recession?Economists evaluate many parts of the economy when assessing whether or not we’re officially in a recession. The...
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By Lisa Perry - NMLS # 276329, Northern VA - VHDA, 100% Loans - Jumbo Loans
(FHA, VA, Jumbo, Downpayment Assistance, Conv.)
Real estate agents are an essential part of the home buying process. They know your local area, they have connections that can win you the house you love, and their negotiation skills will help you stay within your budget. Use these tips to help you choose an agent who will be your real estate superhero.There are many reasons why you should buy your home with a real estate agent. They know the ins and outs of the industry and your local market, they have connections that can win you the house you love, and their keen negotiation skills can help you stay in line with your budget.Although you may already be sold on the benefits real estate agents can bring to your home purchase, you might not know exactly where to start looking for one, much less what qualities you should be looking for.W...
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Fairfax County, VA Real Estate Professionals