Haymarket Area Real Estate & Community News
Haymarket Homeowner HaymarketHomeowner.com Published by Bryan Garcia Garcia Real Estate Group Principal Broker EXIT Heritage Realty
Fall/Holiday 2019 Haymarket Real Estate Trends Year-to-Date 2019 Garcia Real Estate Group Featured Properties Community: Fall into The Holidays Haymarket Area Holiday Happenings 2019 Homeowner Improvement & Service Directory 2019 Tips from the Team: Hidden Dangers in Your Home Around Town: Town of Haymarket News Good to Know: Real or Fake? Christmas Tree Comparison Haymarket Neighborhood Real Estate Stats YTD 2019
The
EXIT Heritage Realty Haymarket, VA garciarealestategrp.com 703-753-9100
Fall/Holiday 2019
3 Real Estate Market Predictions for 2020
H
ere we are, close to the end of the year with the holidays upon us. Before we know it, 2020 will be here and with it, a new Spring real estate cycle. What can we expect from the real estate market next year? Here are some of my predictions:
uncertainty with the trade war and slowing global growth continues. The Fed seems to be on the defensive trying to protect the U.S. economy against those threats. With this kind of uncertainty, I believe that rates will remain low well into the new year.
1. A Shift in Housing Demands As more millennials become parents of school-age kids, and urban areas continue to rise in real estate prices, there’s a push toward the suburbs and with it, suburban locations are evolving. Haymarket has always been family-oriented, but we will start to see more development in favor of a growing demand for walkability, green features, common space, diversity of dining, and transit access. On the flip side, baby boomers are now looking for new housing options, including active lifestyle living and downsizing. Options for seniors looking for post-retirement lifestyle will continue to emerge. Carter’s Mill, a Del Webb Community in construction just down the road from Walmart, is one example.
3. Home Sales will Remain Low In recent years, housing prices have risen faster than wages in much of the country. Many cities, like Seattle and Boston, are in the midst of a full-blown affordability crisis. During the first three quarters of 2019, the Average Sold Price in Haymarket was $545,944, increasing 4.06% over last year. This is good news for home owners and sellers. However, at these prices, even a modest dip in interest rates won’t make a big difference to first-time homebuyers who are struggling to come up with an increasing down payment. Sold Homes in Haymarket were down -3.87% YTD compared to last year. Entry-level homes are selling fast. Because of the low inventories of these homes, they are in demand and with demand comes price growth. With decreased inventory in lower priced homes, and affordability issues in higher priced homes, overall home sales will remain low.
2. Mortgage Interest Rates will Remain Low In late October, The Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the third time this year, as FEATURED PROPERTIES
COMMUNITY
AROUND TOWN
The Average Sold Price in Haymarket from 1/2019 through 9/2019 increased by
+4.06%
compared to the same period in 2018.
Introducing the Garcia Real Estate Group! Selling a home can be a long and involved process. A good RealtorŽ is involved every step of the way – from helping clients get ready to sell, to marketing their home, to contract negotiations, to closing day and beyond. A RealtorŽ wears many hats. That’s why I've assembled a team of real estate professionals with specific areas of expertise. This will give my clients the best possible service from start to finish. The goal of The Garcia Real Estate Group is to provide excellent communication, superior service, a smooth transaction and satisfied clients in the end. Meet our Team at: garciarealestategrp.com/about
The
REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS
Year-to-Date 2019 Market Trends
W
e now have the real estate data for the first three quarters of 2019 (ending September 30th). As I mentioned in my cover story, you will notice that Sold Home Prices are still rising. However, this will likely slow down by the end of the year and into 2020. With the growing demand for more affordable housing, continued escalation of home prices may not sustain.
Haymarket VA
YTD 2019
YTD 2018
% Change
Average Sold Price
$545,944
$524,643
+4.06%
Median Sold Price
$512,000
$510,000
+0.39%
447
465
-3.87%
Homes Sold Average Days on the Market
39
32
+21.88%
$401,032
$386,320
+3.81%
168
169
-0.59%
$633,204
$603,618
+4.90%
279
296
-5.74%
Prince William County YTD 2019
YTD 2018
% Change
Average Sold Price
$409,151
$392,542
+4.66%
Median Sold Price
$382,000
$365,000
+4.66%
5,952
5,710
+4.24%
31
27
+14.81%
$318,077
$304,493
+4.46%
Average Sold Price - Attached Homes Attached Homes Sold Average Sold Price - Detached Homes Detached Homes Sold
Average Days on the Market Average Sold Price - Attached Homes Attached Homes Sold
What is my home worth? Call Bryan Garcia for a Free Customized Home Valuation.
Call 703-517-2574 or Text GARCIA to 85377 for my contact information.
Even though Sold Homes were up in Haymarket for the month of September, they were down for overall year to date – an indicator that this trend may continue. We are also seeing a slow down in how quickly homes are selling, the Average Days on Market increased throughout the region. If you are thinking of selling, contact Bryan Garcia to learn about our exclusive home selling and marketing strategy.
Year-to-Date 2019 (January 1st to September 30th)
Homes Sold
HaymarketHomeowner.com
2,622
2,476
+5.90%
$480,919
$459,954
+4.56%
3,329
3,234
+2.94%
Sept. 2019
Sept. 2018
% Change
Average Sold Price
$539,317
$534,332
+0.93%
Median Sold Price
$518,500
$472,000
+9.85%
Homes Sold
46
42
+9.52%
Average Days on the Market
50
23
+117.39%
$403,915
$390,743
+3.37%
13
15
-13.33%
$592,658
$614,104
-4.49%
33
27
+22.22%
Average Sold Price - Detached Homes Detached Homes Sold
September 2019 Haymarket VA
Average Sold Price - Attached Homes Attached Homes Sold Average Sold Price - Detached Homes Detached Homes Sold
Market Watch Source: RBI Real Estate Business Intelligence
FEATURED PROPERTIES Simply Stunning
The
5 bedroom Colonial in exclusive Paddocks of Dowden Downs of Haymarket offers luxury, land and tranquil lifestyle. Set on 10 acres of landscaped and maintained land with horses welcome, this tastefully-appointed, 3 finished level home features many extras. 14360 Dowden Downs Drive ~ $799,000
15030 Washington Street, Haymarket, VA Commercial Property ~ $775,000
13713 Laurianne Terrace, Bristow, VA ~ $775,000 Very well-maintained 5 bed, 3.5 bath Colonial with 3 finished levels, a second kitchen and screened-in porch.
RECENTLY SOLD 12605 Crabtree Falls Drive, Bristow SOLD FOR $762,500 - 9/3/2019 (Under contract in less than ONE week)
13017 Bathgate Way, Bristow SOLD FOR $355,000 - 10/3/2019 (Under contract in less than 2 weeks)
5336 Daybreak Lane, Woodbridge SOLD FOR $525,000 - 10/23/2019 (Under contract in less than 2 weeks)
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Fall into the Holidays
Virginia National Ballet: The Nutcracker Friday, November 29th 2 PM and 6:30 PM performances Hylton Performing Arts Center Manassas, VA
Treat yourself to an annual local favorite: Virginia National Ballet’s full-length, traditional and sumptuous production of The Nutcracker. Featuring gorgeous scenery, costumes, and choreography, the audience will delight in world-class
professional, international dancers accompanied by the local students of Virginia National Ballet School. VNB is led by Artistic Director Rafik Hegab, 2019 Winner of the Seefeldt Award for Outstanding Individual Artist. Visit virginianationalballet.org for more details and ticket prices.
Holidays at Merrifield Merrifield Garden Center, Gainesville, VA Gather up your girlfriends for Ladies Night on Thursday, November 21st from 6 to 9 PM. Be sure to get there early, this event is popular! Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine tastings while listening to live music in this holiday wonderland. Other events at Merrifield include the annual Holiday Open House that runs the weekend after Thanksgiving all day, each day and features live music and festive treats for the whole family. On November 30th, Santa Claus is coming to town! Visit Merrifield for several jolly ol' Santa opportunities including The North Pole Post Office open through
December 22nd. Stop by with the kids to write and drop off their letters to Santa. At select times, Santa will be on location taking wish lists and snapshots. Check the website for times. On Saturday, December 14th at 10 AM, Paws with Claus is your change to get your four-legged fur baby in for a holiday photo with Santa. Finally, Hot Chocolate with Santa is a ticketed event on select days and times. Sip hot chocolate, eat Christmas cookies and listen to stories told by the big man himself! For times and dates, visit merrifieldgardencenter.com
Sky Meadows Holiday Open House Saturday, November 30th 11 AM to 4 PM Sky Meadows State Park, Delaplane, VA Sky Meadows' Historic Area, which features the mid-19th century Mount Bleak House and other historic structures, comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of the holidays. Visit each of the houses and
COMMUNITY
Bryan Garcia, The Garcia Real Estate Group | 703-517-2574
discover how the people who called Sky Meadows "home" celebrated the holidays from 1843 to 1943. The Area will be filled with the aroma of tasty holiday treats cooking over the hearth in the Log Cabin, costumed interpreters telling stories of holidays past, and sounds of the season in Mount Bleak House. Children and families can also stop by to visit Santa and have photos taken for a donation to the Friends of Sky Meadows. Visit dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks for more information.
Gum Drop Square & Parade Weekends beginning November 30th John Barton Payne Building Old Town Warrenton, VA Experience the splendor and tradition of Christmas in Old Town Warrenton with the award-winning Gum Drop Square and Santa’s Secret Shop. Santa will be on hand for photo ops and wish list orders! Children can shop for family gifts, with the help of happy elves, at the workshop. Main Street will be closed to traffic on Fridays during Gum Drop Square where Old Town merchants will be hosting entertainment, musicians and more! Don’t miss the magical Main Street Christmas Parade on Friday, December 6th. Twinkling lights, fire trucks, pups in costume, trumpets and drums playing the sounds of the holiday, and elves with candy will all fill the streets ending in a firework display. Visit fauquier.com for more info.
Haymarket Christmas & Holiday Celebration Saturday, December 7th 3 PM to 6 PM Town Hall, Downtown Haymarket Join friends and neighbors to celebrate the holidays in the charm and splendor of our small town. Enjoy hot cocoa and cider as you roast marshmallows over the bon fire. There will be a free cookie decorating station for the children, musical performances and holiday carols. Don’t
miss Santa and Mrs. Claus as they ride through town! The Haymarket Museum will stay open all day with a Christmas Craft Market, and the tree will be lit at dusk. Bring your family, friends and pets too!
Trainride to Union Station Manassas Train Station, Old Town Manassas, VA Bypass the holiday traffic and take a round-trip train ride from Manassas into DC’s Union Station – a self-contained holiday oasis decorated for the season. The kids will love it! Shop at the boutiques and treat yourself to lunch at one of the many eateries. Be sure to get a glimpse of the holiday model train display and the Norwegian Christmas tree. There are 8:35 AM departures daily and 10:20 AM on weekdays. Check the amtrak.com website for more details.
ZooLights at the National Zoo November 23rd to January 1st The National Zoo, DC Indulge your wild side with an after-hours visit to the National Zoo during ZooLights (pictured above), which illuminates the zoo with more than 500,000 environmentallyfriendly LEDs, animated light installations, live music and more. Bid good cheer to various animals on display.
If hearty craft brews would make your incandescent wonderland complete, mark your calendar for BrewLights, a ticketed microbrew and craft beer event, on Friday, November 29th from 6 to 9 PM. Guests can enjoy beer tastings from dozens of breweries and sample complimentary snacks, all under the bright lights. Proceeds support the critical work of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute – including species preservation and animal care.
Bull Run Festival of Lights November 22nd to January 5th Bull Run Regional Park Centreville, VA If you haven’t experienced this local holiday event yet, give it a whirl. If you have, it’s a family favorite and annual tradition worth repeating. Drive through 2.5 miles of enchanting holiday displays with more than 40,000 animated lights set to music. After viewing the lights, visit the Winter Wonderland Holiday Village that includes amusement rides, an ice skating rink, entertainment, shopping, food and more. Avoid the crowds and long wait and take advantage of the Monday through Thursday discounted price. Visit BullRunFestivalofLights.com for hours, prices and to download the special coupon.
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concert. A beloved tradition at the Center, the uplifting evening includes treasured classics like Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride”, “A Christmas Festival,” and a rousing carol sing-a-long. Maestro Anthony Maiello leads Northern Virginia’s very own pops orchestra (pictured below) and special guest artists in a cherished holiday celebration. Visit hyltoncenter.org for ticket information.
Hylton Planetarium Laser Shows 14051 Spriggs Road Woodbridge, VA
Christmas in Middleburg December 6th and 7th Downtown Middleburg, VA Rain or shine, Middleburg is the perfect setting for evoking the Christmas spirit beginning Friday at 5 p.m. with the annual tree lighting and carols. The festivities continue all day Saturday with a Christmas parade, shopping, more caroling, great eats and the famous Middleburg Hunt Review. Features include a craft fair, Santa’s Workshop, Soup and Ham Biscuit Lunch and more. Afterwards, experience
a Middleburg evening in one of the quaint bistros, cafes, pubs, and restaurants joining in the Spirits of Middleburg. Visit christmasinmiddleburg.com for all the details and schedule.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops Saturday, December 13th at 8 PM Hylton Performing Arts Center, Manassas Just hear those sleigh bells jinglin’ as the American Festival Pops Orchestra ushers in the season with its annual holiday
The planetarium at Hylton High School in Woodbridge serves as a field trip experience for schools in Prince William County, but it is also open to the public on select Fridays during the year for a variety of musical and space-themed Laser Shows. During the weekend months in December, the family-friendly featured shows include Laser Holidays, Star of Bethlehem and The Alien Who Stole Christmas. Tickets are $10 each, are CASH ONLY and can only be purchased at the school. There are several showings per day but seating is limited so get your tickets in advance or plan to arrive early. Visit hyltonplanetarium.com for more details.
COMMUNITY
Bryan Garcia, The Garcia Real Estate Group | 703-517-2574
Merry Old Town in Manassas
Visit Annapolis, MD
Visit National Harbor
Various dates in December Historic Downtown Manassas, VA
November 18th through January 1st
Through January 1st
With twinkling lights and magical waterfront events, Annapolis is an ideal place to soak up the holiday spirit. Consistently ranked one of the best cities in America to visit during the holiday season, Annapolis offers a handful of events during the month of December including: Lights on the Bay, Candlelight Stroll, Chocolate Binge Festival, Jolly “Sleigh Ride” Cruises, Yacht Club Lights Parade, and the European Christmas Market. Go to visitannapolis. com for all the details.
National Harbor, the expansive waterfront development near D.C., hosts a season of holiday events for the whole family including a nightly light show, live entertainment, photos with Santa and new this year, an ice skating ring and Reindeer Rush Ice Tubing (pictured below). Be sure to check out the spectacular holiday decorations at the Gaylord National Resort. The decor includes a 65-foot tall Christmas tree made of synthetic “candy” glass, sparkling icicles lighting up the 20-story atrium, a miniature Potomac Express Train Village, Santa’s sleigh and a carousel ride. Book a room at the Gaylord or stay at one of several other nearby hotels.
Friday, December 6th kicks off the holiday festivities with Santa Lights Manassas, also known as the Tree Lighting. The evening begins with holiday musical performances with Santa arriving at the Manassas Depot on the VRE train shortly after 6 p.m. Families can enjoy free wagon rides to get into the holiday spirit. The Harris Pavilion Ice Rink will be open for business as well as the downtown shops and restaurants. December 6th will also be the 3rd Annual Jolly Ol’ Confections – a First Friday tasting event of Santa’s sweet treats! Visit multiple participating shops in Historic Downtown Manassas between 6 and 9 PM. to enjoy unlimited samples of desserts created by local restaurants. Dessert Taster Passes may be purchased at any participating merchant for $10 cash. You will receive a taster pass and voting ballot. Treats are while supplies last. The 74th Annual Greater Manassas Christmas Parade hits Main Street Saturday, December 7th beginning at 10 AM. This parade has been a fixture in the community for 73 years and has become one of the largest holiday parades in Northern Virginia! Over 100 units includes marching bands, floats, high-flying balloons, and more! On Saturday, December 14th there will be VRE Santa Train Rides. The rides will leave from the Manassas Train Station at 9 AM, 10:30 AM., 12 PM. and 1:30 PM. Tickets must be purchased in advance beginning on Monday, November 18th at 9 AM. Visit the VRE website for additional information at vrespecialevents.org. Other Manassas happenings during Merry Old Town include a Gingerbread House Contest, Carriage Rides (Sunday, December 8th, 15th and 22nd) and ice skating at the Harris Pavilion. Go to visitmanassas.org for all the details.
Visit Gettysburg, PA The historic town of Gettysburg offers a wide range of attractions and a variety of special events throughout the holiday season including concerts, open houses, special holiday displays and decorations, and a New Year’s Eve celebration with a firework finale. Stay in one of Gettysburg's quaint Bed and Breakfasts, enjoy a weekend of shopping and dining, or just take a walk through the downtown district taking in the charm of the historic town. Catch the Holiday Film Festival on December 7th at the Majestic Theater. Or, head to nearby Liberty Mountain Resort for some skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing.
HOMEOWNER IMPROVEMENT & SERVICE DIRECTORY
2019
Email BryanGarcia@ExitHeritage.com to be included in this directory.
FINANCE & LEGAL
HOME INSPECTION
MOVING & STORAGE
Movement Mortgage
Matt Lloyd Pillar to Post
Able Moving & Storage
7725 Research Blvd, Suite #180 10550 Linden Lake Plaza Suite 300 Manassas, VA 20109 Stacey Barowich, Market Leader NMLS# 195048 Phone: (703) 629-6678 Email: Stacey.Barowich@movement.com www.movement.com/lo/Stacey-Barowich/
FLOORING Kemper Carpet & Flooring 7937 Stonewall Shops Square Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 571-222-4838 www.kempercarpet.com
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Air-Right Energy Design Inc. 12167 Livingston Road Manassas, VA 20109 Phone: 703-530-0166 Contact: Rick Graham, Owner www.air-right.com
5501 Merchants View Square, Suite 701 Haymarket, VA 20169 Phone: 703-520-1440 Contact: Matt Lloyd, Owner/Principal Inspector www.pillartopost.com/mattlloyd
8050 Wellingford Drive Manassas, VA 20155 Phone: 703-898-8182 Contact: Shawn Neal, Account Manager Email: sneal@ablemoving.com www.ablemoving.com
Macon Piercy & Son's Inc.
Ace Moving & Storage Inc.
Warrenton, VA Phone: 540-435-7903 Contact: Macon Piercy III, Owner/Inspector
14205 John Marshall Highway Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 703-707-9400 Contact: Melissa Cote, Move Coordinator www.acemoversinc.com
HOME SELLING CONSULTATIONS
REMODELS & ADDITIONS
Garcia Real Estate Group 15030 Washington Street Haymarket, VA, 20169 Phone: 571-753-9100 (Office) Phone: 703-517-2574 (Cell) Contact: Bryan Garcia, Principal Broker Garcia Real Estate Group Email: bryangarcia@exitheritage.com www.exitheritage.com www.garciarealestategrp.com
On the Level Contractors 14720 Flint Lee Road Chantilly, VA 20151 Phone: 571-375-1700 (Office) Phone: 571-233-4820 (Cell) Contact: Georgia Psihas, Owner/President Email: sales@onthelevel.contractors www.onthelevel.contractors
LANDSCAPE & GARDEN Gateway Home & Garden Center 4208 Lee Highway, Warrenton, VA 20187 Phone: 554-341-4006 Contact: Ryan Anderson www.gatewayhomeandgardencenter.com
Please note: While these businesses are recommended by Bryan Garcia, they are paid advertisers in this publication.
Ah, the smell of fresh pine needles.
Find everything you need for your yard, garden and patio at Gateway Home & Garden Center * Trees & shrubs * Annuals & perennials * Soils and mulches * Turf care, tools and hardscapes
We’re at the yellow house at Route 29 South and Vint Hill Road.
15% O
All Plant Materials with promo code: HaymarketHomeowner Not good with any other oers or prior purchases. (Expires: 3/1/19)
540-341-4006 www.GatewayHomeandGardenCenter.com 4208 Lee Hwy, Warrenton, VA 20187
What can you expect when you sell your house with The Garcia Real Estate Group? • No obligation consultation • FREE Competitive Market Analysis • FREE detailed Home Preparation Recommendations List • Simple staging before photography • Professional photography and 3D tour (most listings) • State-of-the-art marketing • Featured listing in this newsletter • Constant communication with dedicated Seller's Agent
Call us. 703-517-2574
The
Here to help life go right 
ÂŽ
Haymarket residents can count on neighbor, Aaron Mormann for his dedication and service. Aaron and his team can customize an insurance plan for every individual family need.
Call your local State Farm Insurance Agent. Call Aaron.
HOME
AUTO
HEALTH
LIFE
Aaron Mormann 540-364-2293
BUSINESS (and more)
8358 W. Main Street Marshall, VA 20115 aaron.mormann.rnmg@statefarm.com www.aaronmormann.com
TIPS FROM THE TEAM
HaymarketHomeowner.com
A
s a homeowner, especially of an older house, there is a good chance that you will come across toxic problems that shouldn't be ignored. Health problems that can arise from certain bacteria, mold, lead, and others can be serious, so it is imperative that you combat these issues before they get worse. Many homes in Haymarket are newer, meaning built after 1990, so problems like lead and asbestos may not be of concern. However, some of these others can affect ANY home. Here are some of hidden dangers and how to treat them.
Lead Many homes built before 1978 have leadbased paint. Lead poisoning can have serious health effects on you and your family, and should be addressed. If you think your home has lead-based paint, take precautions to either contain it or remove it. To contain it, keep painted areas in good condition to prevent deterioration, avoid exposure when remodeling, and be sure to wash children’s hands, bottles, and toys often. Never try to remove lead yourself. You can tell if there is lead paint in your house by arranging an inspection with Envirotex of Manassas or other local inspector.
Radon The National Radon Program Services reports that one in fifteen homes nationwide may have elevated radon levels that need to be lowered. Radon is an odorless gas that could be present in any geographic location and is typically found in basements or lower levels. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Most homes are tested during inspection and mitigated if there is an issue. However, older homes or homes that have been lived in for a while, could have traces above normal.
Asbestos
HIDDEN DANGERS IN YOUR HOME The good news is that virtually any home can be fixed, though it requires more than just sealing cracks in the foundation. There are several mitigation techniques that should be done by state or nationally qualified contractors in order to ensure success. Luckily, these processes are not too invasive or expensive, and a radon inspector or home contractor will be able to help you by providing tips on how to keep your home safe from radon in the future.
Mold Mold is common in homes, especially in humid environments or in rooms where there is moisture, like bathrooms. It can affect the respiratory system and some people can be highly sensitive to it. Mold comes into the home through open doors or windows, vents, and heating or air conditioning units. It grows well in wallpaper, ceiling tiles, or carpet. If mold is growing in your home, you need to both remove the mold and fix the problem by addressing the moisture issue (possibly a leaky roof, window, or high humidity levels). Some mold can be removed with household cleaning products, but make sure you wear protective eyewear and a respirator during removal. However, if you suspect hidden mold in walls or under carpet, you can have a mold inspection done. Visit rapidmoldremoval.net for a local inspector.
Homes built before 1980 have the potential of asbestos hiding in cement, floor tiles, popcorn ceiling, insulation, walls, and pipes. It shouldn’t pose a big problem if left untouched, but if you are doing home renovations on an older home, be careful when removing walls or flooring and be aware of the potential of toxic airborne fibres in the process. The best way to deal with asbestos in your home is to know its location and be cautious. In order to know for sure, you can send samples to a lab to test for asbestos or call a professional in like Envirotex of Manassas.
Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that occurs through the incomplete combustion of fuels. It is incredibly dangerous if it goes unnoticed, as the gas can cause flu-like symptoms and even death if it is consumed in too high a quantity. Luckily, installing a carbon monoxide detector is easy; it will alert you at any presence of CO in your house. Make sure you have a CO detector and check it regularly to make sure it is working.
Bacteria Household bacteria are common, and can take many forms in different parts of your house. A common area for bacteria to live is in the kitchen, especially in sponges, dish rags or the sink. Bacteria grow where there is moisture, so other unsuspecting places include toothbrush holders, refrigerator door, toilet seats and plants. Homes with pets can also be more susceptible. To combat harmful bacteria, including salmonella, keeping these areas clean and cleaning often is the safest bet. If you are thinking of selling your home, it’s best to address these issues before it ever gets to inspection.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Bryan Garcia, The Garcia Real Estate Group | 703-517-2574
Preparing for a Home Loan: The Do's and Don'ts
I
nterest rates are still at an all time low. If you are thinking about refinancing your home for a lower rate, or to tapping into equity for home improvement, now is a good time. If you are thinking of selling your home and moving up in size and price, you will need to be prepared for your next mortgage. Don't wait until the last minute to get your finances in order. We asked Stacy Barowitz of Movement Mortgage to give our readers some tips for successfully getting your next mortgage approved. Here are her top 10 tips:
Don’t apply for new credit of any kind including car loans.
Don't co-sign a loan for a child in college or other family member.
Do keep all existing credit card accounts open.
Do provide any documentation for satisfied judgements or paid tax liens.
Don’t max out or overcharge existing credit cards. Do keep your employment within the same company or field of work. Don’t consolidate debt to one or two credit cards. Do pay off collections, judgments or tax liens reported with the past year.
Do stay current on payments for all existing monthly obligations. Do be prepared to pay off collections if required by underwriting or the loan program guidelines. Call Stacey Barowich before making any financial decisions or changes to your normal financial routine. She’s there to guide you through the process.
OVER THE RIVER THROUGH THE WOODS TO GRANDMOTHER’S HOUSE WE GO The holidays are coming up, which means lots of family gatherings – in your home. If you’re looking to expand into a new home just in time for the holidays, or to refinance your home to gain extra room in your budget for the holidays, I’m the loan officer that may be able to help you do just that. Ready to see your options and what you’re eligible for? Call me today to get your holiday’s home financing needs taken care of!
Stacey A. Barowich MARKET LEADER NMLS: 195048
direct: 703.629.6678 stacey.barowich@movement.com www.StaceyBTeam.com
12700 Black Forest Lane, Suite 315 Woodbridge, VA 22192 | DC-MLO195048, MD-18098, VA-MLO-3789VA, FL-LO53832 | Movement Mortgage, LLC supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 39179 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 877-314-1499. Movement Mortgage, LLC is licensed by D.C. # MLB39179, MD # 19094, VA # MC-5112, FL # MLD200 & MLD1360. Interest rates and products are subject to change without notice and may or may not be available at the time of loan commitment or lock-in. Borrowers must qualify at closing for all benefits. “Movement Mortgage” is a registered trademark of the Movement Mortgage, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. 8024 Calvin Hall Rd, Indian Land, SC 29707. CPID8232 | Approved as of 10/2019
AROUND TOWN
HaymarketHomeowner.com
Town of Haymarket News Tidbits
T
his year marked another successful Haymarket Day Parade and Festival. The weather was perfect and the streets were lined (photo at top right) with vendors and food trucks serving up all kinds of tasty treats. Thank you to all the volunteers and Town officials who make this annual event happen! Across from town hall, Haymarket Hotel Venture LLC plans to build a Hilton Garden Inn. The hotel is expected to be over 74,000 square feet on 2.3 acres of land and will have 129 parking spaces. The Hilton Garden Inn will be focused on not only bringing people to Haymarket, but in bringing the town’s people together on a daily basis through its restaurants, special events, meeting space and career opportunities. An artist rendering is pictured below. A new playground (pictured at right) has been added to the Haymarket Community Park and it is already getting plenty of use! The playground at the QBE property was removed last year due to structural issues and the absence did not go unnoticed to locals. With the work of the Town and the Planning Commission, a new playground was approved and constructed in October. A large footprint on the back side of the Park is filled with wood chips offering a safe and mud-free play zone. The
play equipment includes swings, 3 slides and a newfangled merri-go-round. The 2019 Town of Haymarket Collectible Ornament (pictured below) features one the oldest structures in Town, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. The Church was formerly the old District Courthouse, an Academy and survived the fires following the Civil War. To learn more about the structure, visit the Town website or purchase the ornament with the historic write-up included. Ornaments are available at the Town Hall, while supplies last. Each ornament is $20.00. All proceeds will go to the Haymarket Museum.
GOOD TO KNOW
The Garcia Real Estate Group | 703-517-2574
Real or Fake?
F
or those who celebrate Christmas, one of the traditional steps to prepare for the quickly approaching 25th is finding and decorating the perfect Christmas tree. But, each year, a debate has continued to grow: are real or fake trees better for our wallets and for the planet? Haymarket Homeowner breaks down the pros and cons.
Here's the Breakdown... COST Best Choice: Fake Tree Artificial Christmas trees are far more cost effective than real trees. While they may be more expensive up front, generally around $100 to $200 for a higher quality tree, the trees can be used for at least 5 to 7 years before noticeable wear and tear. Real trees, on the other hand, can run anywhere from $20 to over $200, a cost that becomes a yearly expense.
HAZARD Best Choice: Real Tree While many may think that a real tree poses a greater risk for a fire due to the wood and needles, as long as the tree is healthy and alive when purchased and maintained with water when in the home, the plastic of the fake trees can actually be a greater hazard. Especially from year to year, flammable dust accumulates on the plastic and chemical particles can break
down, creating increased risk. This is something to consider especially with pre-lit fake trees. Before initially purchasing one and before putting it up each year, be sure to check to make sure the tree has not been recalled, that all the lights and plugs look safely connected, and that all wires are covered.
CONVENIENCE Best Choice: FakeTree For the convenience factor, the artificial tree definitely takes the prize. Without having to deal with vacuuming up needles, watering the tree, and finding the perfect shape and strength, fake trees are the far more convenient option. Just haul it out from being buried below those just-putaway Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations each year and you’re good to go!
ENVIRONMENTAL Best Choice: Real Tree The general argument for fake trees environmentally is that the trees can be used year after year, without needing to cut down new plants. However, it’s important to remember that Christmas happens annually – when ready trees are cut down, 1 to 3 new ones are planted! Buying a real tree rather than a fake tree does a number of things to help our environment: 1. The existence of Christmas tree farms allows for trees to take in harmful CO2 from the environment and convert it to
Oxygen, helping to clean the air we breathe while providing habitats for wildlife. 2. While the average lifespan of a fake tree is under 10 years, it will take over 500 years for the plastic to degrade in a landfill, alongside the release of harmful toxins like lead, arsenic, and petroleum. Due to the fusing of the plastic fibers of a fake tree to the metal frame, artificial trees cannot be recycled. 3. There are over 4,000 recycling programs for real Christmas trees in the U.S., and the organic material can either be reused or decomposed in a way that returns the nutrients to the earth in about six months. 4. Most real trees are grown at local farms within the U.S., creating a far smaller carbon footprint when considering the transportation cost of importing artificial trees produced in other countries. The emissions of planes and trucks can be cut out by buying a tree straight from your community, while also supporting local farmers and the local economy! Finally, for many, finding and buying a real Christmas tree is just as much of a tradition as decorating it. While an artificial tree may benefit your wallet, it may be a good investment in family and environment to buy a real tree this holiday season (plus, who doesn’t love that natural pine smell?) One favorite spot in Haymarket is Burnside Farms (which uses natural growing practices!).
COMMUNITY MARKET WATCH
HaymarketHomeowner.com
Haymarket Neighborhood Stats
H
ere is the real estate market data for the year to date (January 1st to September 30th) for many of our Haymarket subdivisions. I included the Town of Haymarket in this issue as well. You will see that there is a slow down in Sold Homes in the larger subdivisions, while
some of the smaller ones increased. The larger subdivisions are a better indicator as the volume of homes gives us more data. The Town of Haymarket had a good 3rd quarter, showing a substantial increase in Sold Price. This may be that with improvements coming, in-town living is in demand.
Contact The Garcia Real Estate Group and we'll provide a FREE, Customized Home Valuation. Call 703-517-2574 or Email BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com or visit garciarealestategrp.com/sellers and request one online in just 2 easy steps.
Download my MOBILE BUSINESS CARD!
Sold Homes - YTD (January 1 to September 30) Advertised Subdivision
Thinking About Selling?
YTD 2019 YDT 2018 3rd QTR 2019 3rd QTR 2018
Dominion Valley Country Club
112
Piedmont
73 86 28
125
41
38 27
Regency at DVCC
63
71
23
24
Bull Run Mountain
18
13
9
7
Villages of Piedmont
62
52
15
22
Westmarket
15 24
7
10
Evergreen Country Club
7
5
4
2
Town of Haymarket
21
28
7
10
It includes links to my email, phone, Facebook, Twitter, listings and more.
Text GARCIA to 85377
Average Sold Price - YTD (January 1 to September 30) Advertised Subdivision
YTD 2019 YTD 2018 3rd QTR 2019 3rd QTR 2018
Dominion Valley Country Club
$648,887 $599,293
Piedmont
$547,554 $586,792 $538,896
$621,548
Regency at DVCC
$537,074 $495,826
$497,275
$673,730 $529,208
$621,430
Bull Run Mountain
$381,475 $368,845
$351,320
$387,999
Villages of Piedmont
$468,733 $468,032
$466,690
$488,931
Westmarket
$463,826 $454,412 $458,571
$406,950
Evergreen Country Club
$635,889 $687,580
$744,000
$647,450
Town of Haymarket
$419,826 $410,036
$446,886
$380,560
Average Days on Market - YTD (January 1 to September 30) Advertised Subdivision
YTD 2019 YDT 2018 3rd QTR 2019 3rd QTR 2018
Dominion Valley Country Club
35
34
34
35
Piedmont
27 35 28
26
Regency at DVCC
47
39
34
45
Bull Run Mountain
22
22
18
27
Villages of Piedmont
26
19
27
19
Westmarket
20 17 37
21
Evergreen Country Club
56
43
62
13
Town of Haymarket
32
19
44
22
Haymarket Homeowner is published quarterly by Bryan Garcia, Principal Broker. It is printed and mailed to approximately 9,000 households in Haymarket, Virginia. Design and production by Shalvey Creative. For information about advertising or articles, contact BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com. Š Copyright 2019 Bryan Garcia | Exit Heritage Realty. This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for legal, financial or tax advice. Real estate market information is obtained from third party sources. Publisher is not liable for accuracy of any data or statistics. If your home is currently listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.
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FREE FALL/WINTER 2019
HOME STAGING Published by
BRYAN GARCIA Principal Broker EXIT Heritage Realty
CONSULTATION
703-517-2574 www.garciarealestategrp.com BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com
703-753-9100
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FREE HOME STAGING CONSULTATION The
For a limited time, we are offering a FREE Home Staging Consultation at no obligation. of The Garcia Real Estate Group at 703-517-2574 if you're ready EXIT HERITAGE REALTY to sell your home.
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