This weekend, May 19-20,  promises to be very exciting as the Colonial Williamsburg  Fife and Drum Corps hosts a "Drummers Call'.  Head  to Colonial Williamsburg and you will be entertained with Fifes and Drum Corps from across the country and Canada performing 'authentic field music from the American Revolution'.  There will be performances and demonstrations throughout the day. In the evening, a special performance, The Grand March and Review, will  follow the "Salute to the Nation" program. This will include evening torch-lit Tattoos from  Duke of Gloucester and the Palace Green and ending at the Capitol building.  Truly extraordinary and free entertainment!   For more information, head to the Colonial Williamsburg website. 

Below is a fall Junior Corps Fife and Drum march.  (Yes,  a vested interested from the blog writer! Mitch Neilson is center back wearing blue!)

When you live in Williamsburg, VA, you'll never run out of things to do.  From enjoying the beauty of the natural world, to our historic sites, to the thrill of a roller coaster at Busch gardens, there is something for everyone. This weekend forecast is a perfect 76 degrees with a very low chance of rain.  Why not take advantage of the gorgeous weather by enjoying the great outdoors?

Friday, May 18th 2012:

• ​​Get ready for all the great stuff to do this weekend  ​by participating in Williamsburg's "Bike to Work Day". Bike, walk, carpool, or take the bus to work and  the City of Williamsburg will buy you lunch! Luncheon is held at the Williamsburg Community Building, 401 N. Boundary St. Hurry and RSVP to BikeWalk@williamsburgva.gov! 
• Got Friday off? Get on the green with 6th Walter B. Dutton Memorial Golf Tournament ​​​hosted by the James City Ruritan club. The tournament is held on the beautiful sloping hills of Stonehouse golf course in Toano, VA and starts at 11am. $50 for members and $70 for non-members. Call 757-566-9747 or 757-345-5535 for more information.

Saturday, May 19 2012: 

• Do a little shopping at the ​Williamsburg Farmer's Market ​​​from 8am to 12 noon on Duke of Gloucester Street. Get fresh produce, gourmet fish and meats, flowers and vegetable plants and scads of other goodies from local vendors.
• For lunch, ride out to the Chickohominy River Park between 10am and 4pm for the Family Fun Fest. Food, fun and entertainment for all ages! Parking $3. Call 757-259-4200 for more information.
• ​Then stop by the Smokin’ Hot Barbecue Fest ​at Walsingham Academy, 1100 Jamestown Rd, held from 2-7pm.
• ​Later than evening, grab a canoe down at York River State park for "Canoeing with the Stars" at 7:30. Stay until midnight locating constellations with Virginia Peninsula Astronomy Stargazers. Canoe rentals are $13. Call  757-566-3036 for more information.

Sunday, May 20 2012: 

• ​Stay inside just long enough for a worship service of your choice.
• Have brunch at Opus 9 Steakhouse in Newtown, enjoying the sounds of jazz with the Chris Brydge Duo from 11am-2pm. For reservations call (757) 645-4779.
• Hang out at Busch Gardens and see Kirk Franklin, inspirational vocalist, live at the Glory in the Gardens concert series at 7pm.

There’s always stuff to do in Virginia, especially in Historic Williamsburg!  If you love the Williamsburg area, browse homes for sale in Williamsburg VA or contact me at deelyn@lizmoore.com . Together we can find the perfect place for you!

Not every "improvement" will actually increase the value of your home.  In some cases, you can spend thousands of dollars only to find out no buyer shares your taste or your idea of the perfect home.  Take a look at these five types of home improvements to avoid.

1. Bright Paint and Wall Paper: Although fresh paint is always welcome, your favorite shade of periwinkle isn’t.  Wall paper should be avoided—not only is it expensive to buy and install, it is difficult to remove.  Buyers will only think of the money and time they’ll have to spend to change it. Only repaint your home with neutral tones like beiges, grays, and whites. These offer a fresh look without broadcasting your personalized taste.  
2. Putting in a pool:  They cost $10,000 and up to install, they require constant maintenance, and they are a safety hazard.  Although a private swimming pool may be one of your dreams, future buyers may view it as an “attractive nuisance.”  Similarly, buying a hot tub is no investment and you’ll never recoup the cost of the unit when you sell your house.
3. Luxury Priced Fixtures:  Although you may appreciate the craftsmanship of a hand carved recycled oak door with polished bronze handles, other folks just see a door.  Spending thousands of dollars on practical items when a much cheaper, good quality fixture would have served the same purpose is not a good investment.  Save your money for features that buyers will notice.
4. Whirlpool Bathtub:  Having a long soak in a big tub may sound relaxing, but most people just don’t have the time.  Many of the attractive features of whirlpools are actually outweighed by the noise of the motor, the amount of water it takes to fill, and the specialized care required in maintenance and upkeep.  Buyers usually look at whirlpools as something that they won’t use, but they’ll have to clean.  Instead of installing a whirlpool tub, consider using the space for a large walk-in shower, double vanity, or water closet.
5. A New Addition: The cost of labor and materials won’t pay you back dollar for dollar in a resell.  An addition which doesn’t blend into the house may actually turn off buyers, since the home itself will not be esthetically pleasing.  Beware of the popular garage conversion—although you may need extra room, you could be eliminating potential buyers who are looking for a garage. A poorly done garage remodel only leaves you with an odd extra room that doesn’t serve a purpose.

The Bray Dining Room: Delicious food with Old South elegance.  Offering delicious dishes like the Chesapeake Crab Louie Salad, Traditional Shrimp and Grits, and Picatta Style Pork Loin, in addition to many other entrees on the Bray Dining Room Bruch Menu. The Bray Dining Room is found in the gorgeous Kingsmill resort in Williamsburg VA. Call 800-832-5665 for reservations and directions.  

The Blue Talon Bistro: Found in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, you can start your morning with a leisurely walk down Duke of Gloucester Street before a leisurely brunch. Boasting serious comfort food, the Blue Talon Brunch Menu features classics with a twist. Try the mac n'cheese on penne pasta, homemade meatloaf with crushed potatoes and poached egg and Hollandaise sauce, or the cheese and fruit plate. Call 757-476-2583 for reservations and directions.

Opus 9: Located in the planned community of Newtown in Williamsburg VA, Opus 9 Sunday Brunch offers a scrumptious buffet for a fixed rate to the sounds of live entertainment.  Kids under three eat free in this family friendly atmosphere. Call 757-645-4779 for reservations and directions.

Second Street Grill: An American bistro, the Second Street Grill is found just a hop and a skip outside of Colonial Williamsburg. Gourmet selections are available through the regular brunch menu or gluten-free brunch menu. Call 757-220-2286 for reservations and directions.

4801 Glencoe Way in Villages of Westminster offers the best in easy and low maintenance living. There are 2 very spacious first floor bedrooms with 2 nicely sized baths and a 'flex'  room over the garage that offers endless possibilities as an additional guest bedroom or home office or media room. 

Columned entries into the dining room and living room or home office add architectural detail. The spacious kitchen is open to the family room that also offers a gas fireplace. Don't miss the adjacent screened in porch and open deck.

Offered today at $250,000! Please call  Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com to schedule a showing or to get more information on 4801 Glencoe Way in Villages of Westminster in Williamsburg, VA. 

Come celebrate the natural beauty of Williamsburg, VA during one or both of two upcoming Earth Day fairs. Fun and educational for the whole family, these events are free and open to the public. 

Friday, April 20th 2012: 20th Annual Historic Triangle Earth Day Fair from noon to 2:00 PM at 2007 Legacy Hall at New Town, 4301 New Town Ave, Williamsburg, VA. There will be giveaways--including free reusable totes--and shredding services provided by Shred-It. Activities include tips on living green, from shopping to composting and information on green careers. TFC Recycling will be collecting used items such as cell phones, plastic shopping bags, and printer toner cartridges. 

Saturday, April 21 2012: City of Williamsburg Earth Day Celebration from 10:00am  to 2:00 at Waller Mill Park. This family friendly event includes vendors and demonstrations, activities for children, food, and live animals!  Plastic bags, tennis shoes, and cell phones will be collected for recycling.

Discover the deliciously varied talents of Williamsburg's finest chefs with Festival of Taste on the James! Featuring a specialty martini bar and wines, a live auction, and music from the Original Rhondels, the casual dinner takes place on April 27, 2012 at 6:30pm on Jamestown Island.  Tickets are $75 per person and proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels. 

Executive chefs include:

• Le Yaca's Daniel Abid
• The Trellis/Blue Talon Bistro's Dave Everett
• Todd Jurich from Todd Jurich's Bistro
• Fat Canary's Thomas Power
• Acacia's Dale Reitzer
• Waypoint Seafood and Grill's Hans Schadler
• Blow Toad's Jimmy Sneed

For more information, contact Meals on Wheels Festival of Taste (757) 229-9250 or Festivaloftaste@verizon.net .

105 Seven Oaks in Ford's Colony has a NEW PRICE. Elegance and pure luxury meet at this exquisite five bedroom, four and two half bathroom Georgian home with 254 feet of golf and water frontage. The gourmet kitchen features custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, double sink, center island with prep sink, and stainless steel appliances. Storage abounds in the kitchen's walk in pantry which includes additional counter space.

The master suite is a secluded haven offering his and her bathrooms, oversized window seat with storage, and dressing closet with floating drawers.  Two additional bedrooms are found upstairs, and the remaining two bedrooms are at the lower level. With a huge living space continuing out to the patio, wet bar, and workshop, the lower level is sure to meet every need. The patio at 105 Seven Oaks overlooks the lake, where gorgeous sunsets and beautiful evenings reign. Upstairs, the deck overlooks the golf course and lake, offering additional outdoor entertaining space.

Ford's Colony, Williamsburg VA is ideally located near the center of the city.  Close to HWY 199 and I-64, commuting to Fort Eustis is only 30 minutes and Langley AFB only 45 minutes. Ford's Colony offers world class amenities including three championship golf courses--designed by Dan Maples--marina, exquisite clubhouse with over 50 clubs, tennis courts, walking trails, and playground and picnic area.  To read more, visit my Ford's Colony community page.

Now listed at $925,000 105 Seven Oaks is truly a remarkable value. Please revisit this property--you won't be disappointed!

To schedule your showing of 105 Seven Oaks, please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com

     The Junior Women's Club of Williamsburg, VA is hosting the 49th Annual Art on the Square Exhibit on April 29th, 2012 from 10 AM to 5 PM on Merchants Square. Featuring over 160 artists and craftsmen, this showcase offers a variety of media, from needlepoint to watercolors to jewelry. Art on the Square takes place on the Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg, VA. This event is free and open to the public. Parking is available at multiple lots or at the Prince George Parking Garage (hourly rates apply). Want to avoid the hassle of traffic and parking? Take Williamsburg Area Public Transport. Click here for a list of bus routes and times for Williamsburg, VA.

Make plans to attend the Ford's Colony Spring Tour of Homes on Sunday March 26 from 11-5  and take the opportunity to tour many beautiful homes that are for sale in Ford's Colony. You never know- this may be the day that you find the home of your dreams! For more information, please contact Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email deelyn@lizmoore.com. 

Directions: Take 199 to Longhill Rd. Proceed about 2 miles down Longhill Rd. (you will pass Lafayette High School). Turn left onto Ford's Colony Dr. Drive down Ford's Colony Dr. for a little over 1/2 a mile and veer to the right at the traffic circle. The Country Club will be on your right. 

The answer of how often you can expect your real estate taxes to be re-assessed depends on whether or not you live in the "City of Williamsburg", James City County (those home always also have a Williamsburg address) or York County (could be a "Williamsburg"  mailing address or a "Yorktown" mailing address).

If you live in James City County, property tax assessments are done biennially on even numbered years. The tax rate has remained constant for many years at .77 cents per $100 of tax assessed value. For specific information on James City County tax assessments, please click here.

York County residents are also assessed on a biennial basis on even numbered years. The tax rate for York County residents is .66 cents per $100 of assessed value. Click here to see the process for York County tax assessments. To look up a specific property's tax assessment in York County please go here.

If you are a resident of the City of Williamsburg, your assessments are done every year. At the end of October of every year, the city has completed their review of assessments and posts them. Click here to see the exact process for the City of Williamsburg's tax assessment process.  The tax assessments for 2012 are certainly available at the City of Williamsburg's website. You can go here for current tax evaluations for the city.  The tax rate for the City of Williamsburg is .54 cents per $100 of tax assessed value.

The larger issue as you look at purchasing or selling  a property in any of these localities is truly to determine how much does the tax assessment means? The most important fact that I cannot emphasize enough is that the MARKET VALUE of any home is NOT the tax assessed value. Given the time frames for how often any one property is assessed, there is no way that in a fluctuating economy and fluctuating real estate market that the market value can be the tax assessed value (a given and fixed number.) Truly, the best way to determine what you should pay for a home or conversely what value you should use to list your home is to have a current market analysis done by the Realtor that is working for you.

Please do contact Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email deelyn@lizmoore.comif you would like to have a market analysis done for your home or if you are considering a purchase in Williamsburg, VA.

Looking for the perfect home in Ford's Colony? 139 Alwoodley in St. Andrew's Village is it- the perfect sized home at 2757 square feet, 3 bedrooms 2 1/2 baths and now priced to sell at a remarkable $386,500!! Modeled after the George Pitt home on Duke of Gloucester Street in Colonial Williamsburg, this charming home will not disappoint.

139 Alwoodley has been impeccably maintained and offers a wonderful floor plan. The kitchen offers granite countertops, custom cabinetry and opens to  an inviting keeping room. The family room and first floor master bedroom both  open to wonderful 3 season porch. 

Upstairs, there are 2 very spacious bedrooms, full bath, a ‘flex’ room that is currently used as an exercise room as well as tons of attic space and heated and cooled storage.

Additional features: New roof, newer furnace & heat pump, heated & cooled storage, an automatic gas Kohler generator as well as a small fenced side yard. This home Great value-over 50K under tax assessment!

Also: The home is handicapped accessible with wider doors in the master bedroom and master bath ,wider hallways, grab bars  and a  “ramp able” 3 steps in the garage.  The work has all been done-including new roof with warranty, newer 16 seer HVAC and 14 SEER heat pump. Also- Bryant energy recovery ventilator. Truly, energy efficiency combined with gorgeous living!

Please call or email Deelyn at deelyn@lizmoore.com or 757.503.1999 to schedule your personal tour of 139 Alwoodley in Ford's Colony!.

Looking to be within walking distance to Colonial Williamsburg? Live in Port Anne where the charm of walking to Colonial Williamsburg meets elegant and relaxed living! Located within the city limits and exactly ONE MILE to the center of Duke of Gloucester Street,  this delightful Ron Curtis home will not disappoint. Featuring the perfect first floor living with an elegant and spacious living room (or library area) and dining room, as well as a family room with masonry fireplace that is adjacent to the kitchen. The kitchen has just been updated with gorgeous granite countertops, tile back-splash and stainless appliances. There is a gorgeous wall of full windows that overlook a sea of green trees as well as privacy. The screened porch offers additional outdoor living space and is located just off of the family room and kitchen.

Don't miss the first floor master bedroom that is spacious and offers a huge walk-in closet. There is a spacious master bath that features separate vanities.

Upstairs, guests will truly enjoy 2 bedrooms, both complete with en-suite baths. There is also a walk-in storage area that makes this home complete!

The location cannot be beat on this home. Truly "City of Williamsburg" living at it's finest!

Click here for more information on 6 Bertier Ct in Port Anne in the City of Williamsburg.

Please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com for more information.

Where can you find the best, fastest rides, mixed with some creepy, spooky fun?  Busch Garden's Howl O Scream ofcourse!

It is that time of year again - and Busch Gardens has added new shows, and "scare zones" that are sure to delight your inner goblin!

Click Here to get more information of tickets! 

Saturday, October 8th, 8am-3pm

Location: High Street - 1430 Richmond Road

Over 70 vendors featuring antiques and arts and crafts...rain or shine!

Free admission and parking.

Saturday: October 8, 11am-3pm

Sunday, October 9: 11am-3pm

Click here for more information!

This home, located in popular Wellington neighborhood, has just had a price reduction...now offered at $309,000. 

This move in ready home sits on a quiet street, and is light, bright and spacious!  The home features a plethora of upgrades, including: tray ceilings, vaulted ceilings, tile in bathrooms, and columns. This is truly a must see! 

Click Here to find out more details about this home.

If you would like to schedule a personal tour of this home, contact Deelyn Neilson at 757-503-1999, or email: deelynneilson@lizmoore.com.

An Occasion for the Arts is this weekend!

Saturday, October 1 - 10am - 5pm

Sunday, October 2 - 10am - 5pm

Over 170 juried artists, four performance stages, youth art exhibits...a fabulous event for everyone! Click Here for more specifics!

Where? Chickahominy Riverfront Park

When? Saturday - 10am - 8pm

            Sunday - 11am - 5pm

Come out and enjoy a day of family fun!

Click here for more information!