We all want our homes to look appealing to make visitors take a second look; but where do you spend your money to increase value And look good And stand out?
1.An updated kitchen. Kitchens are critical because people want lots of workspace to cook and socialize. Buyers look for solid surface counters, updated appliances and high-quality flooring, such as wood, laminate, tile or stone. It also doesn't hurt if it opens onto another room; families are looking for openness to communicate. It won't hurt if you have a picturesque window or several windows to allow light in. Will it sell faster, Yes!
2.Natural materials. People are looking for ceramic tile, hardwood floors, and granite. In floor coverings -- especially bathrooms or kitchens -- look for ceramic tile or wood rather than linoleum, which can become worn and tear. In the rest of the house choose wood or laminate products over wall-to-wall carpeting.
3.Curb appeal. First impressions are everything. There is nothing better than pulling up to a home with a manicured lawn and a splash of color. A house that appears tidy and well-cared-for will sell more quickly and for more money. A good first appearance can add as much as 10 percent to the value of the home.
4.Basement. A finished basement adds more value simply because of the space. People love the fact that they can "go somewhere and hide" or have that man-cave; and many parents love a place where teenagers can be in another part of the home, not seen or heard!
5.Lots of storage. Nothing beats an oversized garage, some attic space and plenty of closets. If you have a two-car garage you are in the forefront for "SOLD"; do you have extra space for those things we all have -- bicycles, lawn mower, snow blower and just extra junk? No matter if you're single or married, Space is important.
Now on the flip side, contrary to what many people believe there are things that can alter your property value;
* A pool. Pools in most parts of the country don't automatically raise the value of your home; It's constant upkeep, they get cracks, when the equipment goes down it's expensive to replace and the liability is high
* Outdated appliances or systems. Who wants an electrical system or plumbing system incapable of handling modern conveniences?
* Stale or overly personal decor. Sure, red is a hot wall color right now but a complete red room? It won't appeal to everyone. Most home sellers will change the colors to something muted but then you have those who want to remain purple and electric green for the sake of individual design.
I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont
Saturday, September 10, 2011
The Biggest Mortgage Blunders That Can Derail Your Game Plan
So you want a mortgage loan but you don’t have a plan? One of the first blunders that are damaging to everyone is not thinking about your future plans. The things you do today could have a great impact on acquiring a mortgage loan next year or even 5 years down the road. Here is a list of some common mortgage blunders that could derail your game plan.
1.Co-signing On Someone Else's Loan
You could become a great friend or even a hero to someone by doing this. Before you do, ask yourself. Are you willing to assume that liability? Are you willing to forego getting your own home to co-sign? Those could be the ramifications.
2.Making Late Payments
Late payments tell a story to the next creditor; will you pay their loan on time? It’s very difficult to qualify for the best terms and rates if you have late payments. It may even keep you from qualifying at all. It might seem unnecessary to say, but always pay on time and when you can’t, call to ask for extra time.
3.Over Using Credit Cards
Yes credit cards are convenient, but if the balances are not kept low or paid off it may make getting the best rates and terms on your loan more difficult. And if you’re thinking about applying for a loan soon, do not take on new debt. Whenever you apply for new credit, you're seen as a greater credit risk, at least initially. If you happen to apply for a credit card or auto loan around the same time you apply for a mortgage, your credit score might get dinged enough to kill your eligibility or bump up your interest rate.
4.Underestimating Your Total Housing Payment
A mortgage payment consists of principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (The PITI). A common mistake made by prospective home buyers is not factoring in the property taxes, HOA fees and insurance premium into the overall mortgage budget.
5.Not Shopping Around
Just because you're pre-approved with one bank doesn't mean you need to obtain financing from them. Be sure to shop around with multiple banks and lenders and even consider a mortgage broker. A broker can shop your rate with a number of banks concurrently and find you the lowest rate with the best terms. Comparison shop just like you would for anything else you buy.
6.Choosing a Lender Based on Their Low Rate
Your mortgage rate is an important factor with your loan. Remember that it is only one of several factors. You also need to keep in mind the APR and the fees.
There are many factors to consider when applying for a mortgage. Take your time and seek the best advice possible from both your realtor and loan officer.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Are You Ready To Buy A Foreclosure?
Buying a foreclosure can become a dream bargain or a money pit but how do you really know you’re getting a good deal? Before buying any foreclosed property you should always have the property inspected. Keep in mind; the potential financial rewards of buying a foreclosure don't come without their share of hard work and headaches.
You’re probably going to encounter some difficulties with a foreclosure, but if you’re prepared and know what you’re about to deal with you’ll be in a better position to conquer with ease.
Common Problems with the Property
In most cases you’ll find the house is often poorly maintained - after all, if the owner can't make the payments, he or she is likely falling behind on paying for regular upkeep as well.
In addition, some people who are forced into foreclosure are embittered by their situations and take out their frustrations on their home before the bank repossesses. This often involves removing appliances and fixtures, and sometimes even outright vandalism.
After the homeowners leave, foreclosures sit abandoned for a long while, often inviting criminal activity and more damage to the home.
Compounded Problems
Are there any leaks that seem like an easy fix? Well a small leak under the kitchen sink or in the roof can lead to a mold problem and significant water damage. With no one around to take care of those small problems, they become big problems and as time goes by, they become disasters.
Foreclosed properties are notoriously dirty because of the time the home remained empty and dusty. When the place is locked up with no air circulating for months, built-up dirt can cause the entire home to smell.
Depending on the climate where the home is located, the lawn and landscaping has probably become totally dead and extremely overgrown; this can lead to snakes and rodents, whom love to live in overgrown brush.
The bottom line is there is always money to be made with foreclosures. But you must look at the fundamentals first to see if it’s worth your time; remember what I said about the hard work and headaches? This is a given but for those buyers with clear objectives and goals, the rewards are paved in dollars and cents.
I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP YOUR CREDIT REPORT SCORE HIGH
Were you aware that your credit report score is what will either make you or break you when you apply for a loan or credit card? And this is just a plain fact. The fact is the majority of companies that give credit use it to determine if you get your loan or not.
These tips contained in this article will give you a good idea of how your credit score can work for you or against you.
When you are first starting out in the world of credit it can be a Catch 22 for you. If you have no credit history your credit score will be low. Therefore when you first apply for a loan the chances are you may be turned down.
However, there is a way to build up your credit score. Once you have gainful employment you can go to a consumer store and purchase a low dollar ticket item of several hundred dollars. Your monthly terms will be low but take the time to make your payments on time over 6 to 8 months.
By doing so this will factor into your credit report score when you go back to apply for a larger dollar amount on credit. Once you show you have been on the job and made your payments on time your overall credit report score will move up.
What can cause your credit score to go down?
1. Debt To Income Ratio
This means you have obligated yourself to pay back a high amount of your salary to monthly obligations. Let's say your monthly income is $2000 and your monthly pay out is $1700 in obligated debt. Your debt percentage is 70% of your income. Not a good idea!
2. Slow Payments
Once your payment becomes 30 days late it is reported to the credit bureau. Even one late payment will lower your score.
Where this really becomes a threat to your credit score is when you don't catch up the payment. The only way you can do that is to pay the late one and the very next one on time.
If you don't do this the 30 day late payment will increase in number and each time it shows late it lowers your score.
3. Repossessions and Foreclosures
If you have a car, furniture or any other item foreclosed on this will go on your credit report for 7 years. It will continue to keep your score lower because of them.
This list could go on and on, but let's look how you can keep your score up.
It is important for you make your payments on time. A continuous record of on time payments will continue to drive your score up. The longer you have a good record the higher your credit report score will be.
The higher your score, the more likely the chances of you being able to buy a good home, a high priced car and other toys on credit. However, just because you have the ability to do so does not mean it's a good idea to rush out there and do so.
To be straight forward about it there are many things which factor into your credit score being high or low. However, when you apply common sense to your credit worthiness you have an excellent chance of keep your credit report score high.
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 Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Are You Sure You Want To Do A Debt Loan Consolidation?
Do you have more than $10,000 in unsecured credit card debt? Perhaps you also have more than $ 30,000 to $50,000 in secured debt such as cars, boats, recreational vehicle to name just a few. On top of that you have your mortgage payment and student loans. Are you thinking it's time to do a debt consolidation loan? This article will give you some ideas which may help you make your decision.
One of the most stressful events in your life and your family's life is finding yourself buried in debt. Recent studies have shown that more than 60% of divorces filed are caused by a crippling debt situation. In many of the cases the stress has led to domestic violence or worse.
Because of these financial problems many marriage councilors have referring their clients to professional financial debt consolidation councilors. Hopefully, by doing so those couples will have a cooling off period before the final decision is made on a divorce.
One of the things a professional debt councilor will do is compile a complete analysis on every bit of your financial obligations. Your responsibility will be to ensure you provide them with every single detail about the money you owe. There is a good chance they will even want a complete breakdown of every penny you spend and where.
Don't be surprised when your councilor keeps digging and digging until they have every scrap of information they can drag from you. Once your debt loan consolidation councilor has that, they will then do a calculation of the total debt with interest. Finally they will compare what your total repayment will be; verses a consolidation loan of all the money you owe.
In certain cases after the full evaluation of your debt problems your advisor may determine that a consolidation loan won’t do you any good. This involves taking into consideration your ability to repay all your debts, plus the accumulated interest.
This being the case your councilor may well recommend bankruptcy in lieu of loan consolidation.
However, in the event they feel you are candidates for a complete consolidation of your cash obligations, that that is when the real work starts. Either you or your councilor will contact all of your debtors to determine what the pay off amount and how long they are going to allow to you to pay it off. By doing this you will know to the penny how much of a loan you will need.
Don't be surprised if the credit card companies offer to lower your interest rate. It’s much better for them if you don’t repay the bill in full. It also will give you a bit of an opportunity, to be able to keep the credit card, at a much lower interest rate.
If you should decide to work with the credit card companies, in lieu of consolidating your money problems, you need to do your due diligence. Make certain you have the deal they offer you in writing and you know precisely what it means. If not you could be in worse trouble than when you started.
As you can see there is much to be considered before you make the final decision about how you are going to solve your current money obligations. A debt loan consolidation may take care of it now, but what happens down the road if you haven’t learned how to control your debt responsibly.
I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont
Master-Planned Communities For Active Adults-Not Your Typical Subdivision Anymore
Retirement living is changing drastically – these days you're more likely to see residents zooming by on motorized golf carts and jogging that 3rd mile, than chugging along in a push wheelchair. This is not your grandmother’s retirement community.
Many of these master planned retirement communities are age-restricted and often located near metropolitan areas or nearby suburbs. The minimum age is typically 55, with one member of the household qualifying. Some communities restrict ownership to those who are age 62 and older, and all occupants must be at least 62. Many are gated and private.
Living in Style - Amenities
How do you know if you're in a Master-Planned Community or simply a typical subdivision? Generally, they are distinguished by the tremendous number of amenities and conveniences;
• Club House
• 18-Hole Golf Courses
• Libraries
• Fitness Centers
• Swimming Pools and Spas
• Arts & Crafts Centers
• Billiards and Card Rooms
• Tennis Courts
• Basketball Courts
• Continuing Education Classrooms
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• High-Tech Media Centers
• Banquet and Ballrooms
The list is endless; it’s like an on-going vacation that never ends.
So why would you move out of a perfectly comfortable home that has served you well and into a retirement community filled with strangers? Just think of all the benefits waiting for you.
• Single-story living.
One level means those facing troubled knees or aching bones aren't forced to climb stairs.
• Birds of a feather.
Your neighbors are unlikely to be screaming teenagers on skateboards; they are people just like you.
• Little or no yard maintenance.
The homeowner association mows lawns, waters gardens, trims trees, sweeps walks and, in areas where it's needed, provides snow and ice removal.
• Resort living.
Fun-filled activities are located within walking distance or an easy commute. All fees are included.
• Mix work with play.
Many of today's seniors are not ready to live a life of 100% leisure and want to continue working or perhaps start a new career. Homes in retirement communities generally include an office, den or separate workspace.
It's also all the intangibles like human services, religious diversity, community spirit, healthcare and lifelong learning that are the cornerstones of these master planned retirement communities.
When choosing where you will retire, ask yourself, what type of life do I envision?
I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Qualifying For A Mortgage With Unconventional Income
Not everyone makes money the conventional way. Some people have sporadic sources of income but which sources of income will a lender use to qualify you for a mortgage?
Lenders will review all sources of income, but typically use only sources that are expected to continue on a steady basis.
They will distinguish between sporadic or occasional sources of income, and stable, regularly scheduled income. Borrowers can document supplemental sources of income by providing copies of bank statements showing deposits of amounts claimed, tax returns, and payroll/deposit stubs from employers.
There are special rules that apply to certain types of income, and these exceptions are reviewed case by case;
• Trust Income. If the trust is irrevocable and guarantees a payout for three years after closing, the income may be used. The borrower must provide a copy of the trust agreement and proof of two years of continuous payments.
• Social Security, disability and public assistance. This income must be verified as nontaxable. You’ll be required to provide documentation and tax returns. The borrower must also show proof that these payments are likely to continue.
• Unemployment income. Some lenders will allow this income to be used, if you can show you’re a seasonal worker. You’ll have to show that you have been receiving this type of income for the past two years. Proof is imperative, so you’ll have to show records of payments received.
• Notes receivable. If you hold a note and are collecting interest for a minimum of two years previous and will continue to collect this interest going forward, the interest may be added in as income. This doesn’t include a personal loan where your sister, for example, owes you $10,000 and pays you $100 per month.
• Rental income. You will have to show the lease that the tenant has signed as well as documented proof of the rental income, such as bank statements. Only 75% of rental income can be used towards qualifying a borrower for a mortgage.
The key factor for lenders to determine your income eligible for use in prequalifying you is continuity. Do you have continuous and reliable income that can be used to repay your mortgage? You can also include salary and/or wages from full and part time permanent jobs and employer paid bonuses that are paid on a predictable, periodic basis.
Those borrowers who are qualifying for a mortgage loan should pay special attention to the sources of income you use because it can help you understand how much you can really afford to pay for a home.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Is A Reverse Mortgage Right For You
Reverse mortgages are not always the best step for everyone, but when looking at the positives, the reverse mortgage is managing to come out ahead. There are other alternatives like a home equity loan or downsizing to a smaller residence with fewer expenses but for the older homeowner in pursuit of more cash, reverse mortgages can work great.
The Positives of a Reverse Mortgage
• One of the primary benefits of a reverse mortgage is that you can remain in your house. To lose your home, you would have to stop paying property taxes.
• The second major benefit is that you can have readily cash available on-hand when you need it.
• Today’s reverse mortgages are simpler and have limits on them. People applying for these types of mortgages must be given advice, so you’re not going in blind.
• A reverse mortgage can make life more comfortable for older people.
Are you the Perfect Candidate?
There are people that use money frivolously for luxuries and for those falling into this category, you should be cautious before taking out a reverse mortgage. Reverse mortgages are really for those who need to subsidize their retirement income.
Before approval, you are required to meet with a counselor to discuss reverse mortgages, how they work, your expectations and alternatives you may qualify for. But a good candidate doesn’t simply mean eligibility – is this type of mortgage right for you and your needs?
Take a look at this checklist;
 You and your spouse are 62 years of age or older
 The house is your principal residence
 You have lived in the house at least six months out of the year
 You have a lot of equity in your house
 You want to pay down debt
 You do not plan to move
 You are not receiving SSI or money from another government sponsored program
 You have considered the alternatives such as moving to a smaller, less expensive residence
 You understand that the time you have to change your mind is limited, more like 3-5 days
You probably already have an idea of what you could take care of with a reverse mortgage. Feel a sigh of relief, some breathing room for those overwhelmed with bills; but do you know what not to do with your money?
Great responsibility will befall you once you get a lump sum of money. While thinking of a more comfortable life, get some advice from a financial planner to see how to handle your money.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Going From Homeowner To Renter
During the past few years many well-intentioned homeowners have suffered the wrath of our housing crisis and unfortunately must become a renter. It’s probably been quite a while since you’ve searched for apartments, negotiated with landlords or signed a rental agreement. The single most dangerous mistake you can make is failing to get your rental terms on paper, before the move in.
The differences between a Lease and Rental Agreement
Both leases and rental agreements are legally enforceable and they establish the terms of your tenancy. Both cover basic issues such as the amount of rent, security deposits and who can live in the rental unit. But the primary difference between the two types of agreements is the length of tenancy.
• Rental agreements establish a tenancy for a short period of time, usually one month. A month-to-month rental agreement automatically renews each month unless you or your landlord gives the other the proper amount of notice [typically 30 days] to end the agreement.
A landlord can change the terms of a rental agreement, for example, increase the rent with proper written notice.
• Leases obligate both the tenant and the landlord for a set period of time, usually a year. Your landlord can’t raise the rent or change other terms until the lease ends. Your landlord also cannot force you to move out unless you breach an important term of the lease such as failing to pay the rent, nuisance or other property laws. At the end of the lease you or your landlord may decline to renew the lease or simply negotiate to sign a new lease with the same or different terms.
Oral agreements and un-written understandings…
While an oral agreement is legal and enforceable, it’s difficult to prove and unwise to rely upon. People’s memory become unreliable, leading to who said what and it just turns into misunderstandings.
Which is Better - Lease or Rental Agreement?
A lease provides the tenant with more security than a month to month agreement. A lease is usually the better option for tenants who plan to stay put for the foreseeable future. However a month to month gives you flexibility, especially if you are not intending on staying for a full year. Also, if you are in a bad situation, but are forced to rent a place you’re not all that happy with, a month to month will allow you some place to live while you search for something better.
Helena Talbot – Principal Broker and Owner - Exit Realty Talbot and Company
44121 Harry Byrd Hwy, Suite 205, Ashburn, VA 20147
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.
“Thank you for helping us find our Beacon Hill home. You went beyond the call of duty with your email correspondence and helping us with our relocation search. We appreciated your help in negotiating the sale and the smooth closing.” Sincerely, Doug & Sharon
“You were easy to work with and made the selling of my home with its acreage a smooth process while obtaining the best possible price for me. In addition, you were very conscientious about finding me the best replacement home and coordinating both transactions. I would gladly recommend your service to any potential buyer or seller.” Regards, Jennifer.
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 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 Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont. Cell 703.727.9885 Office 703.574.3800
Foreclosure Survival Ideas
The one word that strikes pain and fear in homeowners is Foreclosure. But today, being threatened with foreclosure or even receiving formal notices from the bank doesn’t mean you’ll lose your home. You still have some options.
Negotiating with the Lender
Your best approach is to start negotiating with your lender as quickly as you can.
• You may be able to get temporary relief from having to make monthly payments (forbearance).
• A plan to make up for missed payments, at the end of your mortgage
Of course, there are many stories I’m sure you’ve heard where lenders won’t return phone calls or simply refuse to negotiate; however, it is always wise to start with this option since later down the road, you can bring this up as a defense to show they wouldn’t cooperate early on. You can negotiate directly with the lender or work through a non-profit housing counseling agency.
Filing for Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 – with this type of filing you are able to develop a plan for making your regular monthly payments and paying off the arrears. If the bankruptcy court approves your plan, you’ll have between three and five years to make your payments. Chapter 13 also reduces or eliminates your total debt load, making your mortgage more affordable. In many situations, you can eliminate a second or third mortgage and reduce your first primary mortgage to the market value and probably reduce the interest rate to just above the prime rates.
Chapter 7 – with this type of filing you are able to wipe out your unsecured debt like credit cards, personal loans, medical debt, judgments, etc. This will free up more of your funds so you can place the money towards your mortgage. Chapter 7 may not be appropriate for you; because of the equity, if any, in your home, a Chapter 7 filing could trigger the sale of the home.
Fight the Foreclosure in Court
If you can show that the lender or mortgage servicing party violated your state or federal rights, you may be able to derail the foreclosure, at least temporarily. An increasing number of courts are siding with the borrower when it comes to presenting documented evidence of ownership. Because of the way mortgages have been sold and resold, the evidence is either lost or procedurally inadequate, meaning, your paperwork was not completed correctly.
Violations of federal lending rules and other federal and state laws regarding consumer transactions may provide protection against foreclosure.
It’s very important to contact a lawyer and if you cannot afford one, get in touch with legal aid to see if you are eligible for free legal representation.
Disclaimer: Do not construe this information to be legal advice; nothing in this article should be construed by you as a source of a legal relationship. This Legal Information is solely intended for general informational purposes only.
Helena Talbot – Principal Broker and Owner - Exit Realty Talbot and Company
44121 Harry Byrd Hwy, Suite 205, Ashburn, VA 20147
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.
“Thank you for helping us find our Beacon Hill home. You went beyond the call of duty with your email correspondence and helping us with our relocation search. We appreciated your help in negotiating the sale and the smooth closing.” Sincerely, Doug & Sharon
“You were easy to work with and made the selling of my home with its acreage a smooth process while obtaining the best possible price for me. In addition, you were very conscientious about finding me the best replacement home and coordinating both transactions. I would gladly recommend your service to any potential buyer or seller.” Regards, Jennifer.
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 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 Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William and Fairfax Counties. Some of our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Lucketts, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont. Cell 703.727.9885 Office 703.574.3800
Thursday, August 18, 2011
America's Best Places to Live 2011
Helena Talbot
Fax: 703-935-0309
Cell: 703-727-9885
Cell: 703-727-9885
With the current state of the economy — and the dispiriting sight of the nation's leaders endlessly battling about how to fix it — the phrase "small town" conjures up images of a happier time. When unemployment wasn't above 9%. When people didn't stress out about home values. When school budgets weren't under siege. Those were the days, right?
More at CNNMoney.com:  See the Full List of America's Best Places to Live |
The goal: Find the best combination of job opportunities, fiscal strength, top-notch schools, safe streets, good healthcare, cultural and outdoor activities, even nice weather. The result: MONEY's 100 Best Places to Live. The top 20 follow. (Demographic information provided by Onboard Informatics.)
1. Louisville, CO
 Courtesy: Brad Kemp/City of Louisville |
Population: 18,400
Unemployment: 6.3%This sunny, lively mountain town is safe (crime rates are among the lowest in Colorado) and easy to navigate. Lots of good jobs in tech, telecom, aerospace, clean energy, and health care can be found right in Louisville, and more are on their way. And there's world-class mountain biking, hiking, and skiing in the nearby Rockies. Real estate prices have barely budged since 2005, yet a typical three-bedroom house here still runs less than a comparable one in nearby Boulder. Its schools consistently rank among the top three academically in the Denver area. -Jessica Levine
2. Milton, MA
 Courtesy: City of Milton |
Population: 27,000
Unemployment: 6.6%
Milton is just minutes from the jobs and culture of Boston but feels in places like a country getaway. Tree-lined streets are dotted with historic homes. Single-family home prices have remained essentially unchanged since the market's peak in 2005. One major reason for this stability is the outstanding school system, which boasts six brand-new buildings and offers such rich opportunities as a French immersion program that begins in elementary school. The downside: high taxes. -Ismat Sarah Mangla
3. Solon, OH Courtesy: City of Solon |
Population: 23,300
Unemployment: 8.2%Solon is a small town with a large tax base: Major employers include Nestle, L'Oreal, and industrial equipment maker Swagelok. Solon punches above its weight in other areas too. Health care? The world-renowned Cleveland Clinic has a family health center here. Culture? Solon has its own philharmonic orchestra. Schools? Solon was the highest-achieving district in Ohio last year. And the student body is diverse: 11% of residents are black, 10% Asian. -Anne C. Lee
4. Leesburg, VA
 Courtesy: Pieter van Noordennen |
Population: 42,600
Unemployment: 4.1%Leesburg, which snuggles up to the Virginia-Maryland border, offers proximity to plenty of good jobs not just in government but also in defense contracting, consulting, and technology. True, commutes can be abysmal. But residents say that the tradeoff to live in this pretty town, which has seen more history than a Ken Burns film, is worth it. Many antebellum red-brick buildings still stand, now filled with restaurants and art galleries. On the negative side, there are some run-down neighborhoods. -Pieter van Noordennen
5. Papillion, NE
 Courtesy: City of Papillion |
Population: 18,900
Unemployment: 4.2%Nebraska, sexy? You'd better believe it. With agriculture booming, towns here are showing employment and housing-market strength that's the envy of the coasts.
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In June, energy company Black Hills Corp. moved its local headquarters — and 130 jobs — here. There are also excellent schools, a five-month-old AAA baseball stadium, a new retail and restaurant complex, and loads of green space. -Sarah Max
6. Hanover, NH
 Courtesy: Pieter van Noordennen |
Population: 8,600
Unemployment: 4.4%Dartmouth College, located in this hamlet near the White Mountains, gives Hanover an economic, social, and cultural advantage rare in towns so far from major urban centers. Unemployment in town is about half the statewide average (Dartmouth and its top-rated medical center provide over 12,000 jobs). Graduate programs spin out entrepreneurial start-ups in almost every industry. Housing — which ranges from century-old Victorians to new construction — isn't cheap, however. And students account for some fraternity-style rowdiness. -P.N.
7. Liberty, MO
 Courtesy: Vanessa Richardson |
Population: 29,100
Unemployment: 7.6%Known to tourists as the town where Jesse James' gang staged its first daytime bank robbery — and where Mormon prophet Joseph Smith languished in jail before fleeing west — Liberty today is a charming place with a quick commute to Kansas City's mix of jobs in telecom, engineering, and life sciences. The school district is consistently ranked as one of Missouri's best; student musicians play in a new state-of-the-art facility, and budding broadcast journalists have their own public-access channel. William Jewell College, with its lovely hilltop campus overlooking Liberty, lets residents take advantage of many cultural offerings. -Vanessa Richardson
8. Middleton, WI
 Courtesy: Ismat Sarah Mangla |
Population: 17,400
Unemployment: 5.1%Middleton is right next to state capitol Madison and boasts 17,000 jobs right in town (employers include pharmaceutical company PPD and Electronic Theater Controls, the world's biggest theater lighting company). Its walkable downtown has plenty of good restaurants, shops, and quirky attractions (National Mustard Museum, anyone?). Even its developments are cool: a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired mixed-use project thoughtfully blends homes and businesses. And Middleton offers residents lots of parks and trails — including a new free splash park. -I.M.
9. Mukilteo, WA
 Courtesy: Mukilteo Chamber of Commerce |
Population: 20,300
Unemployment: 8.2%As West Coast towns go, Mukilteo (pronounced MUCK-ill-TEE-oh) is in good economic shape. Bank-owned homes represent a small fraction of houses on the market, and area employers, including Boeing, are hiring again. It has affordable homes by Seattle standards, good schools, and a killer location right on Puget Sound. And the town is spending to beef up its attractions: A new 29,000-square-foot community center debuted in February, and historic Lighthouse Park recently got a makeover. -S.M.
10. Chanhassen, MN
 Courtesy: Bob Firth |
Population: 23,000
Unemployment: 5.5%Despite some 2011 budgetary brouhahas in the state of Minnesota, Chanhassen has plenty going for it — including good jobs right within its borders (manufacturing and technology company Emerson is based here), evening diversion (the Chanhassen Dinner Theater is the nation's oldest and largest), and nature galore (34 parks, 11 lakes, and the enormous Minnesota Landscape Arboretum). The town's new state-of-the-art high school has racked up some national awards in just its second year. -I.M.
11. Sharon, MA
 Courtesy: Town of Sharon |
Population: 17,500
Unemployment: 6.6%Halfway between Boston and Providence, R.I., Sharon was settled way back in 1673; a church in town has a bell made by Paul Revere.
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12. Farmington, UT
 Courtesy: Leigh Swain Isaacson/Farmington City |
Population: 18,300
Unemployment: 6.7%This friendly town near the Great Salt Lake lies 20 minutes from Salt Lake City's job and cultural opportunities. More Small Town USA than suburb, Farmington is safe and quiet. That's not to say it's no fun: in the center of town is Lagoon, a 125-year-old amusement park that attracts visitors from all over Utah. The town has a mix of expensive turn-of-the-century houses and more affordable homes; a typical three-bedroom ran around $180,000 in mid-2011. What's more, Farmington's taxes are low, yet the town is in excellent financial shape. -Angela Wu
13. Johnston, IA
 Courtesy: Sarah Max |
Population: 15,500
Unemployment: 6.0%Agriculture is booming, and so is this small town in farm country: It has doubled in population over the past decade. Seed company Pioneer Hi-Bred and Iowa Public Television are both headquartered here, and the Camp Dodge military base provides stability. Architecture buffs take note: there's a private residence designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in town. Des Moines is a commutable 14 miles away. And 10 miles north of here is Saylorville Lake, a popular summertime spot for boating and fishing. -N.D.
14. Arden Hills, MN
 Courtesy: City of Arden Hills |
Population: 9,600
Unemployment: 6.6%More people work than live in this town 10 miles from the Twin Cities. The families that do call Arden Hills home are attracted by a top-rated school district and a trail system that connects parks, playgrounds, and lakes. The town is known for its strict tree preservation laws, which means that even the newest subdivisions have so many mature trees that they seem like long-established neighborhoods. On the negative side, there's a Superfund site in the area — but the EPA estimates that the cleanup process is almost complete. -A.W.
15. Sammamish, WA
 Courtesy: City of Sammamish |
Population: 46,700
Unemployment: 7.9%If you're looking for the Pacific Northwest ideal — snow-capped mountains and scenic lakes — Sammamish might be for you. Puget Sound and ski resorts are both an hour from this affluent Seattle suburb. High-tech employers in the area include Boeing, Amazon, and Microsoft, which is headquartered just 15 minutes away. Incorporated just over a decade ago, Sammamish still doesn't have a real center where the community can gather. But local officials are working on a new downtown with retail, recreation, and town services. -A.W.
16. Acton, MA
 Courtesy: Mark Hald |
Population: 22,000
Unemployment: 6.0%Thought it's easily accessible to Boston by commuter rail, Acton feels very much like its own place.
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17. Montville, NJ
 Courtesy: Joshua Paul |
Population: 21,800
Unemployment: 7.0%This affluent town is in Morris County, home to many big employers. More than 50 Fortune 500 companies have headquarters, major facilities, or offices in the region, including AT&T, Pfizer, Honeywell, and Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals. True, Montville lacks a proper downtown. But its location — it's an hour away from New York City, the beaches of the Jersey shore, and the Mountain Creek Ski Resort — help to make up for that. -N.D.
18. Newcastle, WA
 Courtesy: City of Newcastle |
Population: 10,200
Unemployment: 7.9%The volunteer spirit is alive and well in this former coal-mining town 13 miles from Seattle. Despite serious budget cuts that threatened the city's summer 2011 events, local businesses and citizens offered time and cash to keep the community's concerts and fireworks afloat. There's a 350-acre golf course here, not to mention 12 parks; the 3,115-acre Cougar Mountain Wildland Park is right next door. Newcastle residents can jump on a trail in the city and end up in the "Issaquah Alps." Tech employers such as Microsoft are almost as easily accessible. -A.W.
19. Castle Rock, CO
 Courtesy: Town of Castle Rock |
Population: 37,200
Unemployment: 6.7%With roots in mining and railroads, this affluent town offers an updated taste of the Old West. It boasts an historic downtown area, 265 acres of parks, and 44 miles of trails. Douglas County Rodeo comes to town each summer, complete with a fair and parade. And there are bargains to be had at the nearby outlet mall. The local economy is improving too. A manufacturer for wind turbine parts recently moved to Castle Rock, and officials have earmarked an economic development assistance fund of $5 million to bring new businesses to town. -A.W.
20. Superior, CO
 Courtesy: Town of Superior |
Population: 12,900
Unemployment: 6.3%This former coal-mining town is a cyclist's dream. Superior's stunning mountain roads draw hundreds to the annual Morgul Classic bike race, and the town recently built a BMX bike park. Homes are more affordable here than in nearby Boulder, but residents have access to the same high-performing school district. Many of the city's well-educated and affluent residents work in the tech sector, at Denver-area employers such as Oracle. -A.W.
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