By Marilyn Pribus – When buying or selling real estate, the first thing to know is that not every agent is a REALTOR®, although most are. A person must pass a written test before they become state licensed and may legally act as a real estate agent. States have their own licensing standards. A REALTOR®, […]

By Celeste M. Smucker – Some major trends in today’s  real estate market reflect the preferences of its two most active groups of buyers, Boomers and Millennials.  Surprisingly many of the same floor plans and amenities are attractive to both suggesting that their appeal is universal encompassing lifestyle preferences that are good for now as […]

By Ken Wilson – “Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river” – Creedence Clearwater Revival Rivers we have aplenty in Central Virginia, and spring through fall is prime time for boating, canoeing, tubing and paddling of all sorts. Let’s take a look at two local rivers and some popular ways to enjoy them. The James Formed […]

By Celeste M. Smucker – Home buyers love Madison County for its beautiful scenery and its multitude of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and fishing.  Just north of Greene County, it attracts those who value privacy at a reasonable cost, along with access to the employment, shopping, educational, recreational and cultural benefits of Charlottesville. […]

By Celeste M. Smucker – While perhaps best known for its spectacular scenery, Madison County also attracts tourists coming for special events like the upcoming Hops Festival, or passing through on their way to Charlottesville and points south who decide to stop for a meal or enjoy a night in one of the county’s gracious […]

By Ken Wilson – “If you close your eyes and say, ‘What would Charlottesville-Albemarle be like if UVA were somewhere else?’, muses Timothy Hulbert, President of the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce, “I don’t think anybody can tell you.” He can say that again. The University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson’s dream, is now ranked second […]

By Marilyn Pribus – Statistics and reports reveal a definite move toward people building and buying smaller homes than a decade ago. “I think the trend really started with the recession,” declares REALTOR® Greg Slater, an associate broker with Nest Realty in Charlottesville. “Everyone started looking at building projects more closely.” According to the U. […]

By Celeste M. Smucker – Mountain views, gorgeous lakes, and  year-round vacation lifestyles all draw people to our area whether for jobs, retirement, or just  get away from urban life.  Some pass through on their way elsewhere, others come for specific events like the Wintergreen Summer Music Festival or the Montpelier Races.  Still others come […]

By Marilyn Pribus – What’s the best thing about Habitat for Humanity? “My children have a place,” declares Sheron Sinclair, a Habitat homeowner for more than two years. Habitat for Humanity® of Greater Charlottesville is all about having a place. In more than 25 years of homebuilding, this remarkable effort has constructed more than 170 […]