Old Dominion News

National Attention! Many new visitors are amazed at the beauty of our communities. Sometimes we take things for granted and are not aware of all the Valley has to offer. Did you know that Southern Living named the Shenandoah Valley as “one of the prettiest and most progressive areas in the South?” Travel and Leisure magazine named Staunton as one of “Americas Greatest Main Streets.” The Smithsonian Magazine ranked Staunton number 10 out of 20 of the best small towns in America!

Waynesboro, known for “Its Hospitality in the Valley”, is another charming town in the Valley. A favorite destination for fishing, the South River runs through the downtown, one of only two urban fisheries in the State!

Both of these towns are situated between the scenic Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, offering 500 miles of trails, canoeing, rafting, cycling, mountain biking, fishing, skiing and golf. It is no wonder that our real estate market has seen an increase in activity and sales, even throughout the winter months.

Once In a Decade Opportunity! Values in the Valley are exceptional with our once in a decade prices and historically low interest rates. Future inventory will only come from owners and as we edge our way out of the economic downturn, supply and demand will dictate that prices will increase.

LIFE IS GOOD IN THE VALLEY…

Sixteen years ago the “Starlight” fund was created by a few local realtors who wanted to help a family in need. Today this fund has expanded throughout our entire service area. The fund goes toward buying coats and toys for children at Christmas time to providing assistance to the elderly and helping families who have emergency situations arise.

Every year we hold fund raising events with the entire proceeds going to the fund. Area lenders, inspectors and many others in the community also help support our non-profit organization. If you know of a family in need or a local business who would like to help, please contact us. Also, please feel free to make a tax deductible donation to “Starlight”.

How fortunate we are to live in the Shenandoah Valley where we have an unparalleled opportunity to create

wonderful memories with our family and friends.

FREE PROPERTY EVALUTION:Here at Old Dominion Realty, our reputation and knowledge of the community allows us to help you achieve your real estate goals. We welcome the opportunity to provide you with a complimentary market analysis of your property and current market conditions of your community, thus helping you to make an intelligent, informed decision whether to list your property for sale.

HELPING FAMILIES IN NEED:

Being a home owner is more than just having a roof over your head. There are other, substantial, benefits that are important for families, communities and the country as a whole.

Higher Academic Achievement: Several studies show that there is a direct link between

home ownership and education achievement. *See chart.

More Cohesive Communities: Homeowners spend more money to improve their

home and are more engaged in enhancing their community leading to nicer neighborhoods and strong communities.

Better Connected Families: Homeowners are more active and connected when it

comes to volunteering at schools, becoming a coach or troop leader or helping with other school aged activities. Throw in in simple things like family game night and your home becomes a more connected, happier family.

THE BENEFITS OF HOME OWNERSHIP:

Improved Health and Safety: Homeowners are happier and healthier than non-

owners. In fact, one study found that people who recently became home owners reported higher life satisfaction, higher self-esteem and higher perceived control over their lives.

Stronger Economy: Being a home owner

also has a positive economic impact in your neighborhood, your town and your city.

Home ownership creates jobs like remodeling, landscaping, furniture and appliances, home improvement and the list goes on and on.

In fact, each home

purchase generates as much as $60,000 of economic activity in the local and surrounding area!

An excerpt from the “National Association of Realtors”

Are You Receiving a Tax Refund This Year?Tax refunds are a good opportunity to enhance your property’s value, whether doing

something as simple as painting and adding to your homes curb appeal to remodeling a kitchen or building an addition.

If you are renting, it could be a good opportunity to use the refund to help you with a down payment on a home. Home interest and property taxes are income tax deductions

and with today’s prices and interest rates, buying a home might just be a better investment!

For a professional, friendly realtor, please check out our reviews at www.gatewaytothevalley.com

For a professional, friendly realtor, please check out our reviews at www.gatewaytothevalley.com For a professional, friendly realtor, please check out our reviews at www.gatewaytothevalley.com

HOT STATS

Provided by: Greater Augusta Association of Realtors

Year End Summary:January 1, 2012 – December 31, 2012

Total Sales: $168,856,926.00

Average Sell Price: $170,735.00

Average List Price: $179,651.00

Total Number Homes Sold: 989

WHY IS NOW A GOOD TIME TO BUY A HOME? High area rental rates, historically low interest rates, along with available inventory, makes now an excellent time to buy.

WHERE DO I START? Choose a Real Estate Agent who is experienced and can assist you through every step; from lender recommenda-tions to closing details.

WHY SHOULD I PUT MY HOME ON THE MARKET NOW? Early spring is the best time to put your home on the market. Statistics show that activity is the greatest during the spring market.

AS A SELLER HOW DO I PREPARE MY HOME FOR A SHOWING? In preparation and to make your home stand out, make sure it is thoroughly clean and neat, de-cluttered and with no over-powering scents. Also, be sure that all medications, jewelry, family pictures, and personal papers are out of sight. You want the Buyer to be able to easily visualize themselves in your home.

ASK THE PRO

It Makes a Difference Who You Choose to Market Your Home…

Once you have decided to sell your home, finding a real estate agent is the next step. Your property may be the most

valuable thing you own so it is important to find an agent you can trust. Choose an agent who can walk you through the process from beginning to end. Ask for a marketing

plan and be sure the agent shows you all comparable sales, pending sales and active sales. A good realtor will know how

to help you price your home to attract buyers. Choose an agent who can help you with other services, such as referrals to home inspectors and real estate attorneys. Don’t be afraid

to ask for a list of past clients. A good agent will take the time to listen to your needs and answer any questions you may have. If you are thinking about selling your home, call

me for a free evaluation of your property.

(This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed for sale)

Over 35 years of combined sales experience!

LIFE IS GOOD IN THE VALLEY!

www.gatewaytothevalley.com

1750 Jefferson Highway Fishersville, VA 22939

gatewaytothevalley@gmail.com

Carolyn Spicuzza (540) 256-7669Billy Baker (540) 294-4444