Articles Tagged "buying a home"

If your kitchen is due for a makeover, it's important to know that a kitchen update doesn't need to be costly or time-consuming to be effective. Our real estate agents suggest these simple tricks to update your kitchen. 

Click Here to Read More...

If you've dreamed of growing your own food or raising livestock, purchasing farmland can help you turn your dream into a reality. Our real estate agents know that purchasing farmland is a little different than purchasing a more conventional piece of property. Here's what you need to keep in mind when buying farmland. 

Click Here to Read More...

As an independent real estate firm, our goal is to provide the best possible service to you and provide comprehensive assistance in achieving your real estate goals. This is true whether you're moving to a Virginia/West Virginia community from across town or across the world. One of the ways that we provide that level of service is through our affiliation with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE), a worldwide network of top independent real estate brokerages.

Click Here to Read More...

If you envision yourself owning a home that stands out from other properties or boasts design details that are rare in modern properties, a historic home is a terrific option to consider.

There are a few things our real estate agents want buyers to know when considering historic homes to help them confirm that the property is right for their lifestyle and property needs. Here's what you need to know. 

Click Here to Read More...

If you recently bought a home with a detached garage, you basically have a whole extra building on your property. While you could use the detached garage to house your vehicle, there are plenty of more creative ways to take advantage of the space. Our real estate agents have seen homeowners using their detached garages in all sorts of unique ways over the years. Today, we have a few suggestions to share with you.

Click Here to Read More...

So many of the beautiful Rockingham County homes for sale have impressive entryways. Often, this is one of the features that captivates potential buyers. However, if your entryway is cold and sterile, it can have the opposite effect - detracting from your home's overall appeal. 

Click Here to Read More...

A combination of low-interest rates, limited nationwide inventory, and pent-up demand has made this year's real estate market one of the hottest in history. In a competitive seller's market, buyers often lose some negotiating leverage and are forced to enter into bidding wars.  

However, if you're looking for a home in today's real estate market, all hope isn't lost. The key to finding the right home for the right price is a combination of patience, dedication, and working with an experienced real estate agent. 

Click Here to Read More...

Have you spent 2020 working from home? If you're like many of us, remote working may be your new nine-to-five. Whether you're browsing our Harrisonburg homes for sale or planning on staying put in your current house, you may be considering ways to turn bedrooms or other areas into a functional working space. Here are a few home office decorating tips from our real estate agents.

Click Here to Read More...

When you enter a kitchen, one of the pieces that immediately draws your attention is the backsplash. The look and tone of your backsplash can instantly change the appearance of your whole kitchen.

Our real estate agents know that a kitchen with a backsplash complementing the rest of the decor appeals to a variety of potential buyers. Here are some tips to follow when choosing your kitchen backsplash. 

Click Here to Read More...

Ready to buy a house? Now is a great time to get started!

It's an exciting time to get involved in West Virginia real estate, and our team is here to help you do it. Our real estate agents have been getting calls from an increasing number of eager homebuyers throughout the states we serve.

Many buyers are ready and raring to go when it comes to looking at the best Virginia homes for sale, but they may have other concerns about how they will chart a course to closing day. One of the biggest worries we hear about from buyers has to do with credit.

Click Here to Read More...

Getting denied for a mortgage loan may put a temporary halt to your dream of buying a house, but it doesn't have to be permanent. When you find out why your loan application was denied, you can correct any issues and reapply. Here are five common reasons your loan application can be denied as well as suggestions from our REALTORS® on how to fix them:

1. Check your credit score.
   Your credit score is based on your credit history and is supposed to represent your creditworthiness. If you've failed to make payments or have made them late, you may have a credit score that's too low to qualify for a mortgage loan.
   
   What to do: Check your credit reports to make sure they don't contain any errors, and if they do, work with the credit reporting agency to correct them. If you've been denied a mortgage loan because of accurate information, start making all your bill and loan payments on time, every time. Also, you can check with a different lender.
   
   

   Click Here to Read More...

Moving to a new state is a great way to begin a new chapter of your life while experiencing the diversity our country has to offer. Our REALTORS® understand that many homeowners dream of one day moving to another state but aren't sure what steps to take first. With years of experience helping homeowners relocate across state lines, we've put together this helpful guide with steps to buy a home in a different state without hassle.

1. Organize & Prepare
   At very least you're buying a home which is a milestone purchase. At very most, you're conducting two substantial real estate transactions — buying a new home and selling your current home. The first step is to get organized and prepare to invest your time and energy into successfully closing on both transactions.
   
   

   Click Here to Read More...

Buying a house can be challenging. If you are looking for Harrisonburg homes for sale, the perfect home is not likely to just magically appear. In almost all home purchases, those buyers who find their dream home remain firmly in the driver's seat throughout the entire house-hunting process.

With that in mind, you can increase your chances of finding and buying the perfect home for you and your family by following some of the same steps other successful buyers have used.

1. Lay the Groundwork.
   Ideally, six to 12 months before you begin your home search, you should run your credit report. Review the report carefully and check for any inconsistencies so that you can clear up the errors. If you find that you owe some debts, get these paid off immediately. You want to approach your mortgage lender with a credit score that is as high as possible.
   
   

   Click Here to Read More...

Do the words "mortgage application" send a chill up and down your spine? It's an understandable reaction, considering the financial and emotional investment that goes into the purchase of a home in Augusta County.

Fortunately, applying for a mortgage doesn't have to be so stress-inducing. Preparation is the key, as our real estate agents share their top tips that pave the way to a streamlined mortgage application process.

Click Here to Read More...

Hunting is a West Virginia tradition that stretches back centuries to the time before our state was settled, and continues proudly to this day. It's a bonding opportunity for families, a sporting opportunity for competitors, and a key driver of the state's economy, generating nearly $270 million in revenue for West Virginia. Finding the right hunting property is easier when you start your search in West Virginia, because this is one of the best places in the country for deer hunters to call home. Our REALTORS® have all the details on why West Virginia is the place to be for hunters.

Click Here to Read More...

It's hard to size up a home at first glance, and even harder to judge an entire neighborhood, but both are important. If you're searching for a home, it's important to remember that your new home isn't just a house; it's a street, a neighborhood, and an entire city. So how do you know that your new neighborhood is the right one?

That's a question that our REALTORS® get asked a lot with many different answers. When you're planning on buying a house, these are the things to look for in the surrounding neighborhood:

Click Here to Read More...

Setting the Record Straight About Buying a Home 

Purchasing a home can be an overwhelming process--especially for first-time home buyers. There are a number of factors to consider when you're looking for the right home for you and your family. One of the first things to think about is finding the best financing to match your lifestyle and financial status.

While family and friends may offer well-meaning advice, it's always best to consult a real estate professional to set the record straight when you're buying a home.

When you're ready to start your home search, our real estate agents are here to help. In the meantime, here are five home-buying myths you should stop believing today.

Click Here to Read More...

Obtaining approval for a home loan is one of the most important things that you'll do in the process of buying a house – and for many people it's one of the most intimidating. Even if your financial picture is in great shape for obtaining a mortgage, it's not always easy to know where to start, what steps to take, and who you can turn to for advice. Here is a review of what it takes to qualify for a mortgage.

Click Here to Read More...

If you've been house hunting for any amount of time, there's a good chance you're all too familiar with the process. You find a few homes, meet the agents, and shake some hands. The conversation moves on to the type of homes you like, the type of neighborhood you're looking for, and maybe even making preliminary plans to visit an open house.

But before things get too far, you get the question that every experienced real estate agent asks of new clients: Are you pre-approved for a mortgage?

For some home buyers, the question comes as a shock. Aren't you supposed to be the one evaluating which real estate agent you want to work with? As it turns out, there are some very good reasons that your real estate agent asks about pre-approval.

Click Here to Read More...

Buying a House? Get Answers to These Home Buying Questions

It's exciting to attend an open house. The possibility of finding the home you have been looking for is enough to get your heart pumping. In your enthusiasm, it's easy to forget to ask some important questions that will help you determine whether the home you are looking at will fit your family's needs and financial objectives. When it comes to buying a house, the following are five questions you should remember to ask the next time you attend an open house:

1.  Why are the Sellers Moving?

Maybe they got a job offer, or possibly decided it was time to move closer to family. These are great reasons to move. However, if they're moving because they can't handle the noise coming from the neighbor's parties, or the airplanes flying overhead, these are things you want to know about when you are buying a house.

Click Here to Read More...

10 Features Home Buyers Want In a Home

What are today's home buyers looking for in a home? If you're selling a house, you might be thinking ... That's a good question!  Homes differ and features span a variety of tastes and needs.  However, there are some aspects the majority of home buyers appreciate.  We've listened to what our clients have told us.  Here is our list of ten features home buyers want in a home.

1.  Laundry Room

Laundry rooms have become a coveted space. Filled with cabinets for organization and Energy Star-rated washers and dryers, these rooms are convenient and helpful. According to home experts, counter space, a utility sink, and ample storage are key components for the laundry room. When creating yours, make sure each step of the laundry process is represented in the space.

2.  Garage Storage

Reality home shows have shown the benefits of having excellent storage systems. An area that's often overlooked is the garage. Creating spaces to put tools, outdoor equipment, and other odds and ends helps leave room for cars. According to a few surveys floating around the internet, around 1 in 4 people have too much clutter to park in their garage.

3.  Natural Light

The more research that's done, the more people are seeing the perks of natural lighting. Many older homes were built compartmentalized with small, ill-placed windows. Buyers love the airy openness of rooms with large windows, well-done skylights, and expansive doors that let the light in.

4.  Heated Floors

They say once you've had heated floors you'll never go back. Gone are the winter mornings you have to swing out of bed and place your feet on ice-cold flooring. You don't have to invest in radiant heating throughout the whole house. Bathrooms are usually good enough for the average buyer.


5.  Kitchen Eating Areas

Most families would rather walk a short distance to get dinner on the table. While dining rooms are a pleasant space to have if you entertain a lot, most people prefer to eat in the kitchen. A nicely done breakfast nook appeals to most buyers.

6.  Landscaping and Hardscaping

The outdoor area doesn't have to be fancy, but a well-thought-out garden design with designated use areas are popular. If it's easy-care, it will be more attractive. Think of the outdoor area as an extension of the home. It's an additional living space people want to use.

7.  Bathroom Linen Closet

It's helpful when towels, toiletries, and various paper goods are easily accessible. Bathroom linen closets are back on buyers' radars.

8.  Green Features

As an environmentally-friendly nation, efficiency is a hot topic for many buyers. They look for Energy Star appliances, double-pane windows, and anything else that maximizes the efficiency of their home.

9.  Exhaust Fans in the Bathroom

This may seem like a no-brainer, but what people are looking for are exhaust fans that do their job well. If there are dated fans (or worse, no fans) that increase the risk of excess moisture and mold-producing conditions in the bathroom, it's a definite turn-off for savvy consumers.

10.  Smart Home Features

As a tech-obsessed culture, Smart Homes are becoming as desirable as Smart Phones. Some unique smart features that appeal to the masses are the Learning Thermostat, wired homes, automated lighting systems, and security systems controlled by your phone.

What features do you want in your next home?  If you're in the market to buy a house in 2016, contact Old Dominion Realty for real estate help and advice.

Gypsy Hill Park Aglow Through December

Start your family's holiday season with a visit to the 10^th Annual Celebration of Holiday Lights at Staunton's Gypsy Hill Park.  Gypsy Hill Park will be filled with twinkling Christmas lights and more than 50 brightly colored holiday scenes even Clark Griswold would be proud of.

Join the expected thousands of Staunton residents and visitors as they tour Gypsy Hill Park's 214 acres to view the holiday displays created by individuals, families, organizations, local businesses and churches in and around the Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County area. This year's celebration takes place from Monday, November 23, 2015 through Friday, January 1, 2016 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. each evening. This is a free event, open to the public.

Old Dominion Realty's participation in the 2015 event is a "command performance" having taken part in previous years.  The Old Dominion Realty Team designed and created our holiday scene entitled, "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Special thanks to Debbie Fauber, Maria Ralston, Natalie Campbell, Krista Fields, Cathy Ward and their families who acted as Santa's helpers in organizing our presentation.

Remembering Your Loved Ones at Gypsy Hill Park

In celebration of loved one, a Veteran or "just because" you can place a lighted deer in Gypsy Hill Park's Field of Deer. During the 2014 Celebration of Lights, 124 deer were displayed by the pool at Gypsy Hill Park. 

Honoring the Military

See rows of sparkling, spiral Christmas trees placed to honor those in our military. Thelma Newman, chairperson and founder of the Celebration of Holiday Lights, invited anyone interested to bring their trees to the park to be placed in honor of someone currently serving or a veteran. 

Caroling, Cookies and Cocoa

On Saturday, December 19 be ready to "FA-LA-LA" from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Caroling in the Park.  Enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies from Staunton's Subway on North Augusta Street, complimentary photos with Santa from Queen City Photography, an outside community fire at the Gypsy Hill Park bandstand and singing by the Staunton Choral Society and Harrisonburg Harmonizers.

Free Wagon Rides

New to 2015, Staunton Parks and Recreation Department will be providing free wagon rides around Gypsy Hill Park during the afternoon of the Caroling in the Park event on December 19 for guests and visitors.

Joining the Staunton Community

Organized by a group of Staunton's community citizens, the Celebration of Holiday Lights combines the local beauty of Gypsy Hill Park with a time of the year when friends and families typically come together.  Staunton has a growing reputation as a tourist destination and the event is another way to bring people to the city and show the true community spirit of its locals. 

If living in an active, close-knit community is what you're looking for, contact the team of experienced REALTORS® at Old Dominion Realty to start your search for homes in Staunton, VA.

Planning for a Job Relocation.

Congratulations!  You found your dream job.  What you didn't expect was to leave your home and to relocate to an entirely new city.  Whether your move is across the state, country or even the globe, it brings a number of challenges beyond simply changing your street address. Learning about a new community, tackling a new culture, and moving a long distance is stressful. Here are tips from the Relocation Services Team at Old Dominion Realty to make the transition easier.

1. Check Out Your New Hometown
   Careful planning and research will make your move easier.  When you find you are moving, surf the Web to research communities near your new employer.  Learn about the area's economy and housing market.  Your new job may come with a higher salary; however, if the local economy is more expensive than the one you're leaving, you may not find yourself as far ahead as you think.
   
   
2. Make Preview Trips
   Although in today's digital society it is possible to make a cross-country move entirely online, it is wise to make a few visits to the area before you move. That's the best way to learn facts like where the best schools are located, when rush hour is the worst, and how far the nearest restaurants, shopping areas, and other local things to do are located from your potential new home.
   
   
3. Find a REALTOR® in Your New Hometown
   When you begin to search for a home in your new community, find a REALTOR® with a reputation as a local expert in the community. Your real estate agent should be knowledge about local housing values as well as be able to provide helpful insights about nearby amenities such as schools and churches.
   
   Your REALTOR® can be a tremendous asset when relocating. Old Dominion Realty has helped many clients make the move to Harrisonburg and its surrounding areas.  Our Relocation Services extend beyond those moving to the Virginia real estate area. As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, we can connect you with quality real estate companies across the globe to make the relocation process easier for you.
   
   
4. Research Mortgage Lenders
   Your REALTOR® can provide you with a list of mortgage lenders with whom they have done previous business.  Comparison shop for the best interest rates and closing costs.  Remember that the cheapest rates do not equate to the best service. A reputation of great service coupled with a stress-free closing can save you time and money in the long run.  Old Dominion Realty has teamed up with VBS Mortgage  to offer you the best of real estate and home mortgage services.
   
   
   
   
5. Downsize Before You Move
   Moving companies charge by weight, so downsizing will make your move less costly. You can sell items before you move and purchase new items when you arrive that fit your new home perfectly. Since you already have to pack and sort, take the time to get rid of items you are no longer using or no longer need.
   
   
   
   
6. Change Your Address
   Let all of your accounts know your new address as soon as you do, so you will not miss any bills. Consider setting up automatic payments for the months you will be focused on moving so you are not adding late fees to the already high costs of moving. Also, inform the post office of your new address so that your mail will get forwarded.
   
   

7. Get Help from a Relocation Expert 
   Contact Linda Goodson, Old Dominion Realty's Relocation Services Director, to learn how Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Old Dominion Realty will make your relocation easier.

Everything you wanted to know about the digital house hunt, but were afraid to ask.

Remember when all it took to sell a house was an ad in the Sunday classifieds?  That's okay--I don't either.  Back then, home buyers depended only on their real estate agents to lead the way to find a home.

Fast forward to 2015 and discover over 90 percent of house hunters search for their "dream homes" on the Internet.  In today's digitally driven marketplace, real estate and technology go hand in hand.  Technology has improved the way business is done for both customers and real estate agents. 

Real estate customers are web savvy.  They use specific online tools during different phases of the home buying process.  Information such as property listings, prices, neighborhoods, demographics, real estate agent reviews and mortgage rates are available with one click of a mouse.  The use of mobile devices—whether smartphones or tablets--is steadily increasing as we search for the American dream.  2014 trend research shows that mobile traffic will soon rise above 50 percent for some real estate brokers.

How does all of this impact the way Old Dominion Realty serves our customers? 

As real estate professionals, we understand selling real estate is as much about the people as the properties.  Because of our customers' growing demands for information, Old Dominion Realty has provided them with specialized and enhanced services. The use of innovative technologies has allowed us to help buyers find homes; sellers list houses; and real estate transactions to be closed quickly and easily.

1. Online Property Search.  Our OldDominionRealty.com website puts property listings within easy reach of customers.  Our auto-complete feature gives customers faster results when inputting city and state, county, subdivision, MLS# or zip code.
2. Real Estate Videos. Old Dominion Realty's real estate agents spotlight property listings through high-quality, professionally created, online videos.  If a picture is worth a thousand words, then our property videos tell home buyers the entire story before they walk through the front door of a home.
   
   
3. Real Estate on the Go. Mobile devices like smartphone and tablets put real estate in customers' hands 24/7.   Customers can access property listing information, driving directions to listings and contact our real estate agents from their mobile devices.  Our real estate agents gain increased accessibility to their customers.
   
   
4. Rave Reviews. Old Dominion Realty's online customer reviews allow new customers to read comments about our real estate agents past transactions and interactions with other clients.
5. New Listing Emails.  We've taken our "seek and find" functionality one step further by allowing customers to create accounts that will automatically send new listing emails from virtually the minute they are enter our system.
6. Dotloop and E-signatures.  No more waiting for a signed contract.  Dotloop is a digital transaction system that links people, paperwork, and tasks so work can be completed quickly and easily.

As the real estate industry continues to advance with the help of technology, Old Dominion Realty's goal is to give our clients the best possible online experience.  By providing customers with the information they want when they need it, we are bringing our agents closer to their clients. However, the digital house hunt is only part of the story.  Home buyers still rely on their real estate agents to marry their online and real worlds. 

Contact Old Dominion Realty to buy and sell houses in the Virginia real estate and West Virginia real estate markets.

Three Rockingham High Schools Recognized Nationally

Whether you are moving your family across the country or across town, one of the biggest decisions you may need to make is which school system is the best for your children.  If you are relocating to Virginia, here's a report from U.S. News & World Report that might make your choice easier.

U.S. News & World Report recently released its 2015 rankings for Best High Schools in the Nation and Virginia's Rockingham County Public Schools made the list.

Over 21,000 public high schools across all 50 states and in the District of Columbia were considered in the rankings.  High schools were awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze medals based on state proficiency assessment tests in math and reading for all students and how the degree to which schools prepared college bound students.

Three Rockingham County High Schools received recognition.

1. Turner Ashby High School – was recognized nationally with a Silver Medal placing 47th overall in Virginia (out of 327 high schools) and 2253 overall in the country (out of 19,753 high schools).   Turner Ashby High School has achieved recognition in U.S. News and World Reportrankings in 2007, 2008, 2014, and 2015.
2. Broadway High School – was recognized nationally with a Bronze Medal.
3. East Rockingham High School - was recognized nationally a Bronze Medal.
   
   

Key principles used in the review to "make the list" included:

1. How well high schools served their students well (both those headed for college and those opting for a different path).
2. The school produces measurable academic outcomes to show it is successfully educating its student body across a broad range of indicators.

U.S. News & World Report worked with RTI International to create a three-step process in ranking the schools. Schools were evaluated by determining:

1. Whether each school's students performed better than expected for students in their state.
2. After schools passed the first step, step two assessed whether disadvantaged students (i.e., black, Hispanic and low-income outperformed disadvantaged students in the state.)
3. Schools advancing to the third step of the process became eligible for national judging based where how well their students were prepared for college using Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate test data.

Congratulations to Rockingham County Public Schools from the real estate team at Old Dominion Realty.

Contact Old Dominion Realty to buy and sell homes across Virginia and West Virginia.

Shenandoah Valley Draws Local Attraction

The unparalleled beauty of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley attracts thousands each year.  From rolling hills and mountain vistas to stunning wildflower meadows, the landscape throughout the Shenandoah National Park System offers sights that simply should not be missed.  Include a drive along the area's picturesque Skyline Drive at the top of your list of things to do  Virginia list this summer.

Not Your Typical Sunday Drive

Skyline Drive stretches for 105-miles through the Shenandoah National Park.  A drive along the Skyline evokes a different time, when life moved at a slower pace, and people commonly took drives for sheer pleasure.  Families trying to decide what to do in Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, should consider a cruise down the park's only public road.  Running north and south through the park, Skyline Drive travels along a crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering unique views of the park and the surrounding region. 

Explore Nature's Beauty

Animal lovers need to look no further for things to do in Virginia.  Skyline Drive is frequently visited by the park's wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk.  The Shenandoah National Park is home to one of the country's largest populations of black bears.  In addition to bears, use Skyline Drive's vantage points to spot white-tailed deer, raccoons, red and gray fox, river otters, woodchucks and over 200 species of birds.

Bring Your Camera 

For photographers and artists, the Shenandoah Valley's  natural beauty brings new inspiration. Scattered along the drive are 75 scenic overlooks  providing plenty of photo opportunities for residents and visitors alike.  Of course, you do not need to be a professional artist to find inspiration along this drive.  Skyline Drive varies greatly in width as it curves along the mountains, offering varied and stunning views.

Go For A Hike 

Along Skyline Drive, you will find plenty of opportunities to get out of the car and stretch your legs.  Hiking often tops the list of what to do in Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley National Park for many nature and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.  The Appalachian Trail, one of the East Coast's most famed and challenging hiking trails, runs parallel to Skyline Drive.  Overall, you have access to more than 500 miles of hiking trails from various points along the drive. Additionally, horseback riding and cycling are allowed along the Skyline. 

Drive Safely 

Keep in mind, animals frequently dart into the road, so please adhere to the posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour.  A cruise along Skyline Drive is a ride meant to be savored; slow down, take your time and do not forget to stop and smell the wildflowers.   You are welcome to tow campers and trailers along Skyline Drive.  Just be prepared to shift into low gear. Make sure your trailer will clear Mary's Rock Tunnel, which features a 12'8" height limit.

Old Dominion Realty to Find Homes for sale in the Shenandoah Valley

Claim a piece of the Shenandoah Valley for yourself. Contact Old Dominion Realty to begin your home search today and discover the many, picturesque communities dotting the region. 

Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance Hosts Valley Fourth

Harrisonburg, VA celebrates the 4th of July in a "booming" fashion with lots of great food, great music, a parade, fireworks, and family fun.   Enjoy July 4 with family and friends at this year's Valley Fourth celebration hosted by the Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance organization.  From 8 a.m. until long after the fireworks end, you will find the city full of fun activities that celebrate its heritage and the history of the United States.

July 4 Schedule

The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with the Valley Fourth RUN.  This is the Shenandoah Valley's only chipped timing race where runners can choose not only their distance, but also the charity their proceeds will support.  You can run one mile all the way to 10K.  The race includes categories for children and adults.  To receive a race t-shirt, register by June 28.  Pre-registration pricing starts at $10 and must be completed by Thursday, July 2.

Enjoy great food throughout the day.  Various food vendors will offer their fare, but from 12 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., the Grillin' at the Pavilion BBQ cook-off will take place.  The smells wafting through the festival are sure to tantalize your taste buds and give you a taste of what Harrisonburg, VA cooking is all about.  For dinner, consider purchasing a People's Choice Sampling ticket, and sample the People's Choice team entries to vote for your favorite. Enjoy the Rocktown Bites! Food Tours if you're still hungry.

Adults can enjoy Beers N' Cheers from 4 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., with wine from Bluestone Vineyard, great food and an exclusively beer brand from Pale Fire Brewing Co. and Brothers Craft Brewing.

 
The evening ends at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks over downtown Harrisonburg, VA.  The best spot for viewing is the Farmer's Market Turner Pavilion.  Since the event draws thousands of Harrisonburg's family and friends, stake your claim to your spot early.

For the Kids

The Harrisonburg, VA Valley Fourth festival is a family-friendly celebration.  Throughout the day, several activities just for the kids will keep them entertained.  The fun starts with the kids enjoying the Valley Fourth RUN, followed by the "Dreamtime" puppet show at the Court Square Theatre. Then, take the time to enjoy the vendors and food booths before heading to the Explore More Discovery Museum with free admission from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Beginning at 4 p.m. and running until the late evening, Court Square will have a number of children's activities, including face painting, patriotic pooch competition, Touch a Truck with the fire department, a watermelon seed spitting competition, bounce houses and more.  You will not run out of things to do to keep the kids occupied while waiting for the fireworks. 

At 6 p.m., head to Main Street to watch the "Get Outdoors & Get Moving" parade.  Arrive early to get your spot.  The parade route is from the Rockingham County Administrative Building to the City Municipal Building.

Live Performances on July 4

Throughout the day as you wait for the evening to conclude with fireworks, you will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances from great local and international names. At Turner Pavilion from 4:30 p.m. until 6 p.m., The Band Concord will perform.  Love Canon takes the stage at 7 p.m.

Become a Harrisonburg VA Resident with Old Dominion Realty

Harrisonburg, VA comes together not only for the Valley Fourth celebration, but throughout the year.  Contact Old Dominion Realty to find Harrisonburg homes for sale.

Hire the right real estate agent to help.

If you are like most Americans, the decision to buy a house is the biggest financial transaction you'll ever make. Having proper representation is crucial so you don't get lost in a maze of listings, paperwork, regulations, and red tape. 

By hiring a real estate agent to represent you during the buying process, your agent is committed to working exclusively for you to negotiate the best terms and price for you in a financially responsible manner.  Working with a REALTOR® provides you with an extra layer of security as you buy your home.  And the best part is, the buyer agent's services are FREE. Many people think the buyer of a home has to pay a sales commission when actually only the seller pays the commission.

Guiding You Through the Home Buying Maze

Many home buyers begin their home search online. Although the Internet providers buyers with unprecedented access to available homes for sale, it is not a substitute for the experience and expertise of a local real estate agent. It only makes sense to enlist the help of a local real estate professional who knows the community in which you are interested.

A professional real estate agent takes a buyer's must-have and wish lists into consider to uncover the MLS home listings that meet your needs.  In addition, REALTORS® have access to listings that you cannot find with an internet search.

Objective Negotiations 

The negotiation process is often the most challenging step of the home buying process.  After searching for and making an offer on a new home, you're understandably emotionally attached to the property.

Lean on your real estate agent during the negotiation process. Having no personal attachment to the property and being hired to represent your best interests as the buyer makes your real estate agent the best person to handle negotiations. Additionally, your REALTOR® can recommend independent home inspectors to help you identify and understand necessary repairs.

Paperwork Processor 

Home buyers understand a simple fact: to buy a house, you will go through a mound of paperwork. Often, the paperwork involved in a sale, including the contract and counteroffers have a time limit attached. Your REALTOR® guides you through the paperwork process keeping track of deadlines and helping you understand the legalese involved in the process.

Regulation Navigator

Similar to taxes, the real estate market involves a series of complex, ever-changing regulations. Your REALTOR's career obligations require them stay up to date on all new, state-specific regulations. Your REALTOR® helps you navigate tricky regulations, ensuring you do not fall victim to hidden pitfalls. 

Finding a Buyer's Agent 

Look for an exclusive buyer's agent to guide you through the home buying maze.  Interview several real estate agents before beginning your home search.  Inquire about past sales, accessibility for showings, and experience in the neighborhoods in which you are interested.  Ask for referrals from friends, family and neighbors.

Contact the Real Estate Team at Old Dominion Realty

Are you in the market for a  home in Virginia or West Virginia? Contact Old Dominion Realty before you begin to buy a house. Old Dominion Realty's sales team possesses in-depth knowledge about the market, making them the ideal partners in the search for your home.

Happily Ever After in Charlottesville VA

Happy days are here again ... at least in Charlottesville, VA.  A study by the U.S. National Bureau of Economic Research named Charlottesville, VA as the country's happiest place to live. Known as the home of the University of Virginia, Charlottesville elevates what Americans expect from a typical college town. 

Happiness is in its History 

At the core of Charlottesville, VA's culture and history lies a simple promise: the right to pursue happiness. One of the country's most presidential towns, three presidents:  Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and James Madison, have called Charlottesville home. Thomas Jefferson's role as a Charlottesville resident is particularly important to the city's history.  Jefferson served as the third president of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence, and architect for his Charlottesville's home, Monticello, as well as the University of Virginia.

A Unique College Town 

The University of Virginia, designed by Jefferson, attracts many residents to Charlottesville, VA. Named by Time Magazine as one of America's Best College Towns, Charlottesville residents thrive here long after their college years. The town's vibrant downtown echoes the stately beauty of this southern college campus. From live music to top eateries, you'll find something to do no matter your interests. Chances are, you'll make a smart, new friend while exploring. Adding to its southern charm, Time Magazine ranks Charlottesville No. 1 in Intelligence and Number 24 in Friendliness. 

Get Lost in Charlottesville's Art 

Charlottesville, VA's Downtown Mall cements the area as a prime arts and entertainment destination. From its roots as the birthplace for the Dave Matthews Band to the big-name musical acts highlighting venue marquees, Charlottesville's live music scene will surely put a pep in your step. 

Music shares its spotlight with the town's artistic roots. Georgia O'Keefe rediscovered her love of painting at the University of Virginia. Discover your own love of the arts at the many art galleries and museums surrounding the town.
 

Your Favorite Eats 

If people come for the history, the University and the art, the food may just be the reason they stay. Wine Enthusiast names Charlottesville one of America's Top 5 Foodie Cities. Experience new restaurants and uncover your favorite eats. After all, what brings more happiness than sharing a plate of delicious food with family and friends? Throughout C-ville, you can dine on any number of dishes from traditional southern at the Pasture Q to inventive, farm-fresh, chef-created dishes at Brookville. 

Virginia is for Lovers ... and Wine

Grape roots run as deep as presidential history in Charlottesville, VA. A vision of Mr. Jefferson, the Monticello Wine Trail offers more than 30 wineries in a 30-mile radius, including labels by Dave Matthews and Donald Trump. Discover your bliss, and its perfect wine pairing. |

Experience Mountain Living in Charlottesville

In addition to the great food and wine, Charlottesville is surrounded by beautiful, breathtaking scenery. Need to clear your mind? Simply hop in the car for a Sunday drive. Surrounding Charlottesville lies quaint farmland, forests and the kind of countryside views that make you take a deep breath and relax. 

Old Dominion Realty for Homes in Charlottesville VA

With so much to offer its residents, it's no wonder Charlottesville is America's Happiest Place. Find a home in Charlottesville, VA  with the help of an Old Dominion Realty real estate agent. Contact Old Dominion Realty today to begin the search for your dream home. 

Buying vs. Building Your Home - Which is Right for You?

Old Dominion Realty has been working with home buyers and home sellers since 1962. Many home buyers have opted to buy an existing home while others have decided to build a new one.

Both of these options have their own benefits and drawbacks, and making the choice is not always easy. As you weigh your options, here are some things to consider.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Home

Buying a home carries several benefits, including:

• Better Value - You can negotiate a price on the home, and you will almost always pay less for the same amount of square footage if you buy.
• Established Neighborhood - Buying a home means you have the chance to see the character of the neighborhood and the neighbors before you buy.
• Complete Landscaping - Established homes have mature landscaping.
• More Convenient - When you buy a home, you don't have to make as many decisions about the features of the home, and you can usually move in within two months.

Buying a home has its drawbacks as well. Some of these include:

• Fewer features in the home are brand new.
• Some items will need to be cleaned or replaced.
• The floor plan may be outdated and less open.
• The home may need renovation or remodeling to make it modern or in line with your needs.

Pros and Cons of Building a Home

Building a home is a second option to consider when pursuing home ownership. The benefits of building include:

• Everything is New - Everything in the home, from the carpeting to the light fixtures, is brand new.
• Energy Efficient - New materials and improved standards mean newly built homes are more energy efficient.
• Less Immediate Maintenance - You won't have to deal with immediate maintenance needs from an older structure.
• Comfortable New Communities - While the neighborhood may not be established, it likely does have modern amenities, like sidewalks and playgrounds, common in new subdivision.
• More Personalization - You can choose everything, from the color of the paint to the type of lighting fixtures, when you build.

Buying also has its drawbacks, which include:

• Higher potential cost, with hidden costs and surprises and additional fees for upgrades.
• Noise of construction of nearby houses after you move in.
• Longer time commitment, as building can take up to seven months on average.

Which Makes the Most Sense?

Neither option is a bad choice, so the truth is that you will have to decide for yourself whether buying or building makes sense in light of your goals, budget, and desires. So how can you decide? First, make a list of what is most important to you in a home, then compare your options in your price range. This will help you determine which option in your area is the best fit for your needs.

Whether you decide to buy an existing home or build a new home having a real estate agent on your side is important. Old Dominion Realty serves the people of Virginia and West Virginia, offering real estate services focused on the needs of buyers.

Old Dominion Realty has a history working with local many builders like Landmark Home Builders Inc., Milstead Construction, Valley Renovators, Inc., and W. Boutros and Co., Inc. Contact Old Dominion Realty for help determining if buying or building is the right for you.

Old Dominion Realty and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Work Together

Last year 36 million people moved in the US giving reasons such as employment changes, family reasons, and retirement.  Some moved just across town; others across the country or even the globe.

Linda Goodson, Old Dominion Realty's Relocation Director, explained in a recent ODR webinar that about ten years ago Old Dominion Realty found the need as a local real estate company to find companies outside of their local community to help their customers.  That is when Old Dominion Realty applied to join Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a collection of over 500 of the finest residential real estate firms around the world, producing more annual home sales than any other real estate network.   As a member of this network, Old Dominion Realty's customers can be connected with an expert REALTOR® anywhere in the world.

After a rather stringent interview process, Leading Real Estate Companies chose Old Dominion Realty to be a part of their affiliation.  Linda Goodson commented, "We are very proud to be a part of the Leading RE network.  Leading RE firms are located not only in the US, but across the world with affiliates selling more real estate than any of the larger brands. "

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports that approximately 90 percent home buyers searched online during their home buying process.  Old Dominion Realty and LeadingRE.com's affiliation is a logical match.

When local real estate customers interested in relocating come to Old Dominion Realty, an interview is performed to determine the buyer's wants and needs.  Old Dominion Realty enters the customer's information into LeadingRE.com to be matched with a Leading RE REALTOR® where they will be moving.

Real estate buyers can expect exceptional customer service from Leading RE members because they are required to have additional training, more designations, and be considered a top sales person in their markets.

Old Dominion Realty home sellers benefit from ODR's Leading RE affiliation because their properties are listed on LeadingRE.com receiving visibility both nationally and worldwide.

At Old Dominion Realty you can feel confident having more than 50 years' real estate experience behind you.  In business since 1962, Old Dominion Realty's focus has been on delivering top-notch customer service to its Virginia and West Virginia Real Estate customers.

For more information about Old Dominion Realty's Relocation Services or how Leading Real Estate Companies of the World can help you, contact Linda Goodson today.

Smooth Move: Making the Move Easy on Your Family

Moving with children is one of the hardest tasks that parents face. Kids are used to familiar people and places, and they may not be old enough to understand adult reasons for why a move needs to happen. Here are some helpful tips on talking to your children to make moving with your family a little easier.

Click Here to Read More...