Williamsburg Virginia Real Estate News & Listings Presented By Liz Moore and Associates

6 things you have to do to sell your Williamsburg, VA home!

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 03:00:00 GMT

Trying to sell your home in Williamsburg, VA? Well.... the old saying is true: It’s a beauty contest and a price war you have to win BOTH.

Yes, it is more difficult to sell today. Impossible? No way. As a seller you do have to do your ‘homework’ (no pun intended) in order to accomplish the ‘sold’ sign being placed in your front yard. I closed over 40 sales in 2011 so I can say with some degree of experience what you need to do as a homeowner to sell your home. My top 6 things are here and are really in the order that they need to be done- although you have to do ALL 6 to succeed.

1. PRICE is king. When pricing, try to see your home through the eyes of your potential buyer. Look first at the SOLD properties in your neighborhood and the price that they sold for. Try to find the sold listings on the Internet and look at the features in the home and how the house showed to buyers as they trolled Realtor.com or another real estate website. Look second at what is active on the market and then price competitively. SOLD prices equal REALITY. The LIST prices are ‘what we hope to get’. Proper positioning is the key to a successful sale. Price too high and your home will truly just sit. Chances are if you are not seeing showings then you are priced too high.

2. Declutter and depersonalize.I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to declutter and depersonalize your home. Buyers cannot see past your ‘stuff’. If you have closets that are overflowing then your buyer will think that if your clothes don’t fit in your closet then neither will their things fit in the closet. Most of the time we have too much furniture- see if there are pieces that can leave a room so that the room will look better. Remember, buyers only know what they see. If they see a house that has too much ‘stuff’ in it then it will appear that the rooms are too small. (It doesn't hurt to already have a few boxes packed as well!). Take down ALL personal photos. You want the buyer to be able to see the home as potentially their home not still as your home. And, while your children are beautiful, do you want the buyer to remember what your kids look like or do you want them to see the features of your home and remember those?

3. Keep it clean! Follow up with a good and a constant good cleaning. Q-TIP clean! (Yes, really!)

4. Update as much as you can.A brand new and neutral comforter on a bed as well as fresh paint will work wonders. If you can do more- like adding granite countertops- do so. Consult with your Realtor about things that you can do that will add value to your home. Not every update will be worth the money and you may not get back all of your investment. Some updates have to be done in order to compete with the active listings and you may not get your money back dollar for dollar- but you will get your home sold. For example, most buyers see wallpaper as ‘work’ and will walk away thinking that there is possibly work to do in the house.

5. Make your home available to show. The easier that your home is to show the more likely that it WILL show. Think of this aspect of selling as you would any odds for winning- the more your home is shown the more likely that you will find your buyer. The less you are shown the less opportunity to sell. Don't have unreasonable conditions like only allowing your home to be shown at certain times of the day.

6. Have the home READY to show! Turn on all lights in the house. Have the house clean and smelling good. No unmade beds, no dishes in the sink and no trash in the house. Put away personal hygiene items like mouthwash, tooth brushes etc. Open the blinds and let the sun shine in so that your home will sparkle!

Remember, the first step is to get the buyers in the door! This is accomplished through proper pricing and making it easy to see your home. Price too high and you won’t see showings. The second step is to have a ‘wow’ factor once the prospective buyer enters your home. Declutter, clean, and have a ‘neutral’ palate.

The final step is to have some patience with the market. It will take a little longer to sell than it has in the past, however, do the 6 items above and you will move to the SOLD category this spring!

Please call me today and I will be happy to review your home to move it to the SOLD category in 2012. Please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at Deelyn@lizmoore.com .

6299 St. Johns Wood, Wililamsburg 23188

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:01:31 GMT

This delightful and well maintained home is located on a cul-de-sac lot, in sought after Villages of Westminster. The home features an open floor plan including a spacious kitchen with bay window, which flows directly into the Great Room which houses a dual sided gas fireplace. Adjacent to the Great Room, is the light-filled sunroom overlooking the private yard, backing to greenspace. The lovely Master Bedroom suite has tray ceilings, and a beautiful en-suite bath. This home offers easy one level living, with a bonus room over the garage for family fun, entertaining, or a home theatre. You do not want to miss this home! To schedule a showing, please contact Deelyn Neilson at 757-503-1999.

How often are property taxes assessed in Williamsburg, James City and York County?

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:59:00 GMT

How often are properties in Williamsburg, VA re-assessed for tax purposes? This is a question that is frequently asked, especially in today's real estate climate as property values are, quite honestly, all over the board.

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.

Charming home on quiet street in Westray Downs!

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:30:46 GMT

If you are looking for a charming home, in a desired quiet neighborhood, then look no further. 3356 New Castle is located on a cul-de-sac in Westray Downs and offers a wonderful floor plan. Features include two family room areas as well as a huge finished lower level. The kitchen with pantry opens to the keeping room with masonry fireplace. Upstairs the spacious master bedroom offers two closets and en-suite bath. The expansive lower level area has a wet bar and is currently used as a game room. Relax on the screened porch, entertain on the deck, and play in the yard - this home has it all! Conveniently located just minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and a very easy commute to Fort Eustis or Langley!

Please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com to schedule your tour of this affordably priced home in Westray Downs.

St. Andrews Village in Ford's Colony NEW PRICE!

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

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!.

Ford's Colony is a beautiful gated and golf community that is centrally located in Williamsburg, Virginia. It is a popular community with about 5000 residents and nearly 2,500 homes. By the time the community is completely established there will be more than 7,000 residents living in 3,250 homes, condos and townhouses all encompassed on 3000 acres. The neighborhood is situated along winding roads that weave in and around three 18 hole championship golf courses all designed by Dan Maples. Other amenities include two Olympic-sized swimming pools (one with a zero depth entry) , a swim and tennis clubhouse, hard and clay tennis courts, a nature trail, play ground areas, biking and miles of walking paths.

New Price on Port Anne home- IN the CITY of Williamsburg!

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Fabulous new price on 6 Bertier Ct in Port Anne in the City of Williamsburg! Now priced to sell at $505,000. Offering the perfect size of 2492 square feet,there are 3 bedrooms and 3 full and 1 half bath.

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.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE! Piney Point home with beautiful spaces!

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:02:30 GMT

Welcome to 101 Cherry Point in Piney Point, Yorktown, VA. TAKE A LOOK INSIDE- you will love this inviting home offering beautiful rooms and tons of character on a quiet street in sought after Yorktown.

This truly unique home offers 3077 square feet 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and sitting on .86 of an acre! The living room offers a masonry fireplace and is open to the beautiful dining room. The updated kitchen features granite countertops and a built-in banquette table. The great room is truly the heart of this home with tons of space and includes a masonry fireplace, built-in bookcases and an area for a game table or additional informal dining. Just adjacent to the great room is a charming sunroom that is sure to please.

Upstairs, the expansive Master Bedroom offers plenty of space as well as en suite bath and dressing vanity. There are three additional bedrooms all offering hardwood floors. Don't miss the WALK-IN storage area as well!

The private backyard offers a patio and is the perfect spot for outdoor fun and entertaining.

This home also offers a one year home warranty.

To schedule your showing of this absolutely charming home, please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com.

warranty!

Tucked away Cape in Windsor Forest

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:07:51 GMT

Welcome to 112 Windsor Way in Williamsburg, VA. You will love this charming Cape-style home that offers your own private and serene oasis located in the heart of desirable Windsor Forest! Offering 1980 square feet, there are 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths.

The spacious Great Room offers a masonry fireplace as well as natural light. The adjacent family room features built-ins and a wall of windows that look out to the deck with pergola and beautiful gardens. Hardwood floors are featured throughout the first floor. The first floor master bedroom offers 2 closets as well as an en-suite master bath. There are also two additional spacious bedrooms upstairs.

Don't miss the built in storage area on the side of the house that is perfect for outdoor lawn equipment or for any additional storage needs.

Please call Deelyn at 757.503.1999 or email at deelyn@lizmoore.com to schedule an appointment to see this charming home.

Gorgeous home in Governor's Land

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 03:24:21 GMT

Expect to be impressed with custom quality craftsmanship, well appointed interiors and a superbly executed floor plan. Features include: stunning Great Room with Cherry built-ins and gorgeous arched doorways that lead to the sunroom, accented by Palladium windows. Spacious kitchen with Cherry cabinetry, granite, and ample storage in the pantry. First floor Master Bedroom, as well as three additional bedrooms upstairs. Lovely study with custom built-ins. Enjoy retreating to one of two covered porches, deck, or patio.

Williamsburg, VA's Busch Gardens "Howl O Scream" is Here!

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Ready to Get Your Scream On?

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!

Stately Custom Built Georgian in York County

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:17:32 GMT

Welcome to 201 Cherwell in Banbury Cross in York, County, Williamsburg VA!

You will love the convenience of this home that is in a great location in Banbury Cross offering easy access to I-64 and 199. Commutes to Fort Eustis, Langley, Newport News and even Richmond are made easy. Best of all, enjoy the LOW YORK COUNTY TAXESbut with a desirable Williamsburg address!

You will feel like you are in the country on a private and treed lot but can be anywhere in Williamsburg in minutes. Banbury Cross offers the best of ‘country’ private living combined with suburban convenience.

This beautiful quality, custom all brick home is situated on a quiet street and almost 2 acres of wooded privacy! This home offers 3731 square feet with 3 or 4 bedrooms, 2 full and one half bath.

The Great Room features a beamed ceiling with custom fireplace, wet bar and built-ins that opens to a beautiful sun room. The spacious living room features masonry fireplace. There is also a home office on the first floor as well as a wonderful laundry/utility room with tons of storage as well as a sink.

Enjoy relaxing in the spacious Master Bedroom with sitting area, third fireplace and private deck overlooking wooded and peaceful privacy. There are 3 additional bedrooms as well as "flex" room.

Outside, don't miss the beautiful patio as well as marvelous outdoor workshop complete with HVAC and power.

Please call me at 757.503.1999 or email me at deelynneilson@lizmoore.com to schedule your showing of this spectacular property.

Charming home in Queen's Lake

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 22:36:33 GMT

Nestled on a quiet street in the heart of Queen's Lake, this inviting home offers beautiful spaces and tons of character. The home features a Living Room, Family Room with fireplace that opens to the sunroom. The home offers a den as well as an updated kitchen with island and a cozy keeping room with fireplace. The master bedroom offers an adjacent home office with custom built-ins. Three additional bedrooms all offer hardwood floors and tons of charm. Enjoy the private and relaxing backyard. This home is a must see!

112 Royal Sydney, Ford's Colony in Williamsburg 23188

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 18:44:46 GMT

This is a beautiful and flat flag lot at the end of a cul-de-sac with privacy! Instant equity...this lot is listed $10,000 below assessed value! Choose your builder and plans, and get ready to build your dream home in one of the newest sections of Ford's Colony!

94 Highland, Ford's Colony in Williamsburg 23188

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 18:39:37 GMT

Absolutely spectacular lot - large and flat...one of the last available lots in the charming St. Andrews Village of Ford's Colony! Choose your own plans, or review the current ECC approved plans for a Cape Cod with a southern front porch and easy one level living. You wil love all that Saint Andrew's village has to offer!

Williamsburg's 10th Annual Antique Show and Flea Market!

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Williamsburg's 10th Annual Antique Show and Flea Market

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.

Williamsburg Residents: Plan to Attend This Weekend's Ford's Colony Open House Tour!

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:48:00 GMT

This weekend...Open House Tour in Ford's Colony!

Saturday: October 8, 11am-3pm

Sunday, October 9: 11am-3pm

Click here for more information!

Wellington Price Drop - 3975 Bournemouth Bend

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:00:00 GMT

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.

Williamsburg Residents: Make Plans to Attend AOFTA

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:26:00 GMT

It is one of the annual events in Williamsburg, that you do NOT want to miss!

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!

Williamsburg: James City County Annual Fair This Weekend!

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:26:00 GMT

The Annual James City County Fair is this Saturday and Sunday - September 24th and 25th!

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!

Williamsburg's New Town Welcomes: El Tapatio!

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:27:00 GMT

El Tapatio Mexican Grill and Bar is now Open in New Town - right next to New Town Cinemas!

Great Mexican food - and if you try it today for lunch - you can enjoy BUY ONE LUNCH ENTREE - GET ONE HALF PRICE (valid only thru today, September 15th!)

El Tapatio also runs a Sunday Kids Special - Kid's Meals $1 - with the purchase of an adult entree.

Hour of Operation: Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 11:30am-11pm, and Sunday 11:30am-9:30pm

Come out and enjoy all that New Town has to offer!