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Charlottesville, VA Real Estate News

By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
The Home Buyers Scouting Report--it takes the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors (CAAR) MLS--and allows the average consumer the ability to do so much more than just look at listings--it's like the local MLS on Steroids!The Home Buyers Scouting Report gives you:     * Every listing posted by EVERY Realtor and real estate agency     * up-dates in real time so you get the most up-to-date content     * a password protected, non-public web site with no pop ups! You must apply in order to get your own personal user name and password--but of course there is no cost or obligation.     * the ability to map locations of schools, stores, restaurants, and other points of interest in relation to the new home you've found for you and your family.     * the ability to compare the home you w...
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By Valorie Ford
(Bright Vision Mortgage)
Home owners and prospective buyers, you may have notice that mortgage rates have gotten better in the last couple of weeks as the stock market has tumbled.  Remember it is all about JOBS. The number of jobs being created in the country came in very low for November/December.  The job number is one of the most important economic numbers that is reported each month by the government and job growth is also very important to the housing market.Goldman Sachs recently came out and said they think we are going into a recession and that the Federal Reserve will cut their key rate to 2.5% by the fourth quarter of 2008.   2.5%!!!  WOW!Goldman Sachs is one of the most reputable companies in financial services and their record of accomplishment is unmatched. I have a couple of loan options currentl...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
Most growing cities see a problem with crime growing with the higher number of people moving into the area.  Thankfully Charlottesville, along with the University of Va and Albemarle county saw a decrease for the year of 2007.The University area saw the largest decrease with a 23% drop in overall crime.  The City of Charlottesville reports a 12% decrease for the year followed by Albemarle with a 2.3% decrease.  The City itself saw a total of 3 murders last year which is the same as 2006.  The City and Albemarle police were able to catch a serial rapist who had been accused of numerous rapes though out the central Va area for over 10 years.  Albemarle was able to catch several burglars this past year helping the property crime rate to drop. Overall this is great news to all the citizens ...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
Have you ever said to yourself, one day I want to go up in one of those hot air  balloons?  Well it's just another wonderful option here in Charlottesville, VA.   Now think about it, if you're coming here to see the sites, this is a way to see everything.Bear Balloon Corporation has been providing tours of Charlottesville since 1981.  If you are afraid of heights, you will feel comforted to know that over 15,000 people have made the trip successfully.  You too can see Charlottesville from a birds eye view.  This is a great gift for that person who has everything or willing to try anything.  Bear Balloon Corp. offers gift certificates.Reservations are recommended in advance of your planned event.  Cool air is required for flights so weather is a factor.  Most flights are made at sunrise ...
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
2007 Year-End Market ReportThe Speed Limit of Real EstateBy Dave Phillips, CEO Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS® If you've ever driven on Interstate 95, you may have noticed that traffic often moves much faster than the posted limit. You are almost forced to go along with the flow of cars zooming at 75 to 80 miles per hour. Then, just when you are getting used to speed-reading the road signs, the traffic slows back down to 65 for some unknown reason. Suddenly, you feel as though you are going in slow motion, even though you are still moving at a good clip. That same feeling is what we all felt from the local real estate market in 2007.By historic standards, 2007 will go down as the 4th-best year for real estate sales in our area. That is not a "slow market," but it sure felt...
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
The other day one of my clients asked where I go to get model rocketry supplies.  I guess he knew that Jen and I had reached an accord where I gave up my dream of getting my private airplane flight license if she agreed to let me throw away a large chunk of my income on amassing an armada of radio controlled planes, helicopters, and Estes rockets.I love toys.  I guess I'm a boy at heart.Without hesitation I turned him onto HobbyTown USA in The Seminole Shopping Plaza off of 29.  There I knew Mike or Dave would take care of him.  They would listen to his level of interest and match him with the best "toy" for him.  And, they would give him the best advice both before and after the sale.  I knew from first hand experience that when you go into Hobbytown, crushed bird in your hand, tears o...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
James Monroe was our fifth President of the United States from 1817 until 1825.  In 1793, Monroe purchased Ash Lawn-Highland to be close to his friend Thomas Jefferson.  Today the home is owned and operated by The College of William and Mary.  Located minutes (2.5 miles) from the Jefferson home of Monticello off of Route 795 is Ash Lawn-Highland.  Now a 535 acre working plantation with tours focused on Monroe's day.  Tour the home that has been furnished in elegance for it's day.  Peacocks roam the landscape.  Visit the chicken and sheep in the livestock area and watch craft demonstrations.  Outbuildings have been restored to reflect their appearance in the 19th century.  Stop by the shop for unique gifts and keepsakes.  Today, Ash Lawn-Highland also serves as a conference area, hosts p...
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By Valorie L. Easter, Valorie Easter & Co, Charlottesville/Albemarle Rea
(eXp Realty)
2008 is going to bring a lot of big changes for America.  A new President will be elected come November.  The Fed will continue to cut rates.  The housing market will hopefully bottom out...  I predict big things for 2008!VALORIE'S 2008 PREDICTIONS*Based on what I have seen coming out regarding the real estate and mortgage market, I predict that the Presidency will step in and aid those struggling with adjustable ARMs.*Gas prices will continue to rise until they cease come Spring and start to fall.  This rise in gas prices as well as increased unemployment will prompt the Fed to further cut interest rates.*Federal Funds rate will drop to 7%*We will experience the lowest mortgage rates in years and mortgage brokers once again will see an influx of refinances* The housing market will bott...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
One of the best things about living here in Charlottesville, VA is the rich history of the area.  Thomas Jefferson, third president and author of the Declaration of Independence, called Monticello home. Monticello is the showcase for Thomas Jefferson's passion for architecture.  Monticello is open for tours to the public every day of the year except for Christmas.  Located just outside of Charlottesville on Route 53, Monticello is set for tours to show how Jefferson lived in his day. It is like taking a peaceful step back in time.  This is a must see when visiting the area.  The mountaintop scenic views are some of the most beautiful in the area.   Jefferson loved architecture and gardening and you can see this in the landscape.  Visit the Monticello Garden Shop and Museum Shop for uniq...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
A must visit in the Monticello area is Michie Tavern located just before Thomas Jefferson's Monticello on Route 53.  Michie Tavern was a travelers center providing food and lodging back in the 18th century.   Today, it is a historic site to visit for a trip back in time.The Ordinary is the dining room where you will be southern food attended by servers dressed for tavern time.  Try the famous Colonial Fried Chicken or Pork Barbecue for a meal you won't soon forget. Tour the tour of the original Tavern for a peek of past life.  Check out the ballroom and take part in the 18th century dances.  Also on site is the Virginia Wine Museum, The Clothier and Tavern Gift Shop.Best of all, my personal favorite is the General Store with the Meadow Run Grist Mill.  Old style shopping with two floors...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
One of the great things about Charlottesville is the rich history of the area.  You can visit the same places that Thomas Jefferson himself knew during his lifetime here. This week, some of the RE/MAX crew had the pleasure of lunch at the Boar's Head Inn at the Old Mill Room.  First of all, everything at Boar's Head is outstanding.  You dine in elegance with picture perfect views of the pond and grounds in the background.  A great selection of food, deserts to die for and everything was just delicious.  The biggest issue was deciding to choose. My favorite was the beef stew.  Make sure you check out the historic charm and wood work of the Inn while you are dining.Also at Boar's Head Inn is the Birdwood Golf Course complete with a Pro Shop and Birdwood Grill.  Birdwood is considered one ...
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By Karen Gentry>>Charlottesville, Virginia Real Estate Professional
(RE/MAX Excellence-Charlottesville VA)
Todays local newspaper, The Daily Progress, reported this years list of parade of lights in the Charlottesville area.  You can see the entire list on the DailyProgress.com.  As always the Belmont area and the neighborhoods around Park Street and Locust Avenue are great places to view the lights.  This is a wonderful tradition to share with your love ones.  Why not go for a drive this evening?Downtown Belmont Area
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By Rick Sergison, Durham Region Real Estate Blog
(EXP Realty of Canada Inc., Brokerage)
JANUARY 2008 BOARD OF SUPERVISOR MEETING DATESThe Albemarle Board of Supervisors will beholding its first regular day meeting of 2008 on Wednesday, January 9, 2008.Time : starting at 9:00 a.m. The Board's regular night meeting for January will be held on Wednesday, January 16, 2008Time : starting at 6:00 p.m. Both meetings will be held in the Lane Auditorium of the County Office Building. I strongly suggest that you consider attending these meeting if you want to stay informed on the way our area is run. I find out much more information at these meeting than by just reading the newspaper with a few highlights.It is great to see our government in action!Best regardsCharles
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
Pictures and a map of Forest Lakes Neighborhood December 17th, 2007Map of Forest Lakes:Aspenwood Neighborhood:Ashwood Blvd--Forest Lakes South:Entrance to Brandermill:Brandermill: Ashwood Blvd--Forest Lakes South  Entrance to Stratford Glen:Stratford Glen:Roundabout on Ashwood Blvd:Entrance to Willow Bend:Entrance to Kernwood:Entrance to Keiser Ridge:Pleasant Ridge:Creekview: Ashwood Blvd--going back west towards Rte 29 (Seminole Trail):Chimney Springs:Magnolia Bend:Magnolia Bend:Aswood Blvd going west:Ashwood Blvd going west:Kendalwood: English Oaks:Forest Lakes South Swim & Fitness Center:Thornridge:Teakwood:                    tshthyksduyk
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
I was born and raised in New Hampshire.  My wife, 2 daughters, 8 & 10, and myself moved down to Charlottesville (C'ville) last August.  WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT HERE!!  The scenery with its farms, rolling hills, and trees.  The weather--oh my G_d.  It was 70 degrees last December!  I know, it was a little unusual, but still beats the cold and snow up in New Hampshire!!  Anyway, I wanted to take a moment to fill you in on some "things" we discovered during our relocation.1.  We were interested in moving to Charlottesville.  We found out that "Charlottesville" means the city of Charlottesville--with the University, the Downtown Mall, and Rte 250 East and West transecting the northern part of the city, etc.  Charlottesville is located pretty centrally in Albemarle County.  So we actually live...
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
Did you know C'ville has one of the most active running clubs and running community in the country?  There is some kind of road or cross country race almost every week! Check out these resources:1.  The number of events the Charlottesville Track Club (CTC) sponsors is a major reason why Charlottesville was rated one of the top running communities in the country. Each year, the Charlottesville Track Club helps present over twenty-five races, including two events--the Women's 4 Miler and the Charlottesville Ten Mile Race -that attract runners from around the region. 2.  Charlottesville Running Company is the new passion of Gill and Francesca.  This innovative specialty running shop offers the best in shoes, apparel, gear, nutrition, wellness and advice for both runners and walkers.  Pleas...
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By Fulton Gaylord, Senior Realtor - Palm Harbor, Florida
(Keller Williams Realty)
Relocation information:Our girls participate in and LOVE the following organizations:Soccer league: Providing enjoyable, effective, quality soccer programs that develop participants' skills and encourage citizenship, SOCA is open to all youth and adults in Albemarle County.  C'ville SoccerYMCA basketball league: YMCA currently offers childcare, after school, summer camp, CYAC Swim team, basketball, flag football, lacrosse, soccer, cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, wrestling, adult aerobics, and First Aid & CPR.  For complete listings, see our respective program pages: YMCA Youth Sports Forest Lakes Swim Team: (Part of the Jefferson Swim League)  If you live in the greater Charlottesville, Virginia area and your children enjoy swimming, please consider joining one of our 16 great summer s...
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By Dave Shockley, Putting my clients needs first Roy Wheeler Realty
(Independent Contractor)
Charlottesville, Virginia Grand IlluminationIf you are planning to visit Charlottesville, Virginia over the Thanksgiving Holiday don't miss the "Grand Illumination".This Charlottesville tradition is scheduled for Friday, November 23rd.  Activities begin at 4:00pm with music.  Then around 5:15pm there will be Candlelit Caroling at the City Hall Plaza on the East End.At 6:00pm will be the Grand Illumination at Central Place.  Other activities will include face painting, ornament making, hot apple cider, chestnut roasting, snow for the kids and more.This is a great tradition that everyone can enjoy so bring the entire family.  Have a safe Thanksgiving.
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By Keith Neeley, RE/MAX New Horizons
(ReMax New Horizons)
This week is traditionally a rivalry weekend in college football.  Around these parts there are none bigger then Virginia Tech vs. Virginia.  Kick-off is set for noon in Charlottesville.  This year's outcome is for first place and a berth in the ACC championship game set for December 1 in Jacksonville.  Boston College awaits the winner.  The VT-UVA match-up has never meant so much.  Virginia has over-achieved this year and look to complete a story-book season.  Go Hoos.                                                                                            
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For those of you in Virginia or D.C. area who would like to attend, former UVA Defensive End and New England Patriot Chris Slade will appear on Friday, November 9th, at the Monticello Event and Conference Center at the first annual Hope Foundation Sports Banquet.  The event will benefit the Hope Community Center in Charlottesville, VA and is $250 per table or $35 for individual tickets. Dinner will be included as well as remarks from Chris - and a Drama, too. The Event is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. WHEN:  November 9, 2007  - from 7 - 9 p.m.WHY:  Celebrating Hope Community Center & Its Future (to provide programs such as teaching English to adults & children who are new to this country, after school homework & exercise for neighborhood children, & more) http://www.rosefellowship.org/work/hope...
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