Officiating a client/friend’s wedding tomorrow, rehearsal tonight complete with dinner and bonfire at the vineyard! Think I’m ready, gonna’ run through it once, today.

Gotta’ practice the trombone, first–getting ready for concert tomorrow at Martin Luther King Center–right during football…wife’s pretty pissy about THAT! Pats are playing Tennessee @ 1 PM

Gonna’ re-live my high school years and go to the Muscle Car Show at Jim Price Cheverolet, this morning. Yes, it’s my dream to own a convertible 1971 454 SS Chevelle, blue with white racing stripes, white top, white interior…boys will be boys

PLEASE: check out my new and improved web site devoted to the neighborhood I love: Forest Lakes, in Charlottesville, VA
http://ping.fm/H8mhV
Let me know what you think, please!

2 hours before we’re scheduled to close, buyers back out because they want to buy through their soon-to-be organized corporate identity! So…BACK ON MARKET:
http://ping.fm/UORJo

Listening to the Red Sox and Angels game, 1 to 1 8th inning, but do I care enough to be staying up this late? Got it thru i-Tunes.

Nope, different conference and division–I’m a born and raised, die-hard Pats fan! They won a good game against Baltimore, yesterday. Had to listen on the radio ’cause I wasn’t near a TV.

Can’t wait for Monday Night Football, tonight! Hope game lives up to all the hype–Green Bay playing Favre and the Vikings in Minnesota.

Off to do my OPEN HOUSE @ The Belmont Village Luxury Condos 1-4:00 PM–gonna’ miss the Patriots playing Atlanta–the things we give up for the love of our career!

No, no, the bank had given everyone an opportunity to present their Highest and Best, but 2 buyers decided to leave their offers as they were–and they were NOT the best offers by a long shot–yet these are the same 2 contracts who e-mail and call me every day telling me how serious they are and how badly they want the property??

Got 3 more listings coming on: 4 bed, 3.5 bath ranch on 4 acres with 2 car attached garage, finished basement. A 1 bed, 1 bath 925 sq ft condo in Pantops. And a luxury condo in Penn Park (Riverrun) for $236,500 coming October 5th.

I don’t know, even the Mrs and I considered this place–almost 5,000 sq ft, 6+ acres, built in 2006 for $800,000, and in excellent condition–I really thought we would’ve had 12 to 20 offers as it represented THE best deal I’ve seen in 20 years. But had many people casually tell me “we’ll just wait, see what happens, we’re in no hurry…”

Interest rates are incredibly low. The $8000 tax credit is a huge amount of money, and it’s going away in a month and a half. And prices have dropped significantly. Yet, I still see buyers like this guy, who say they’re in no hurry, just waiting…

I don’t get it.

Had a guy call me about the Langhorne foreclosure, yesterday, who had called a month before on same property. I told him property now long gone with 6 offers, bank taking best, which was cash, no contingencies. He was upset, said he was a serious buyer, wanted to see it. But back when he had told me he was going to wait, he wasn’t in any hurry. He was bargain hunting…

Boy, do I really look forward to my morning coffee!

Got 4 offers on 8339 Langhorne foreclosure! What a steal for the buyer. Built in 2006 for almost $800,000, going under contract just under $400,000!! But don’t understand why we didn’t have 12 contracts? What a fantastic time to buy!!

3 BPO’s this morning! 1 new single family foreclosure, 1 condo foreclosure, and a gorgeous newly reconstructed townhome in Penn Park! Busy, busy, BUSY! More details, soon!

Oh My Lord!
Tom Brady for President!
Did you watch that game? My heart is still in my throat!
Amazing! What a way to start the Monday Night Season.
Pats Win!! 24-23

Taking time this morning to manage my FB page. WOW! Organizing friends lists, making a new business page, posting new pics. This could be a full-time job!

I’m off to go deliver a closed file to the office. Then, I have to bike some of our trails here in Forest Lakes, with my camera, to document if they’re ready to pave, and then approve. And pretty chilly this morning!

I think I finally figured out that my backlinks needed to be named what I wanted search engines to catalog. I always thought it was the blog title.

Whoa! I didn’t say I was going (back) to the doctor AND doing a closing, today. Went to the doctor LAST week–you know, to find out I had a urinary tract infection–OUCH! Today I’m doing a closing. Sorry for the mix up and thanks for all the concern!

Closed on solar home, last Thursday. Boy, was FHA tough! Made both parties sign additional papers day AFTER closing! But we got ‘er done! Question: will my 51 Woodlake foreclosure EVER close? Bank is dragging their collective feet…

Driving to Winchester, VA to do a closing for Wells Fargo while Karla @ CloSure Title is on vacation.

Working on getting the word out to investors–great time to buy! The numbers on some properties around Charlottesville are starting to work!

Just put stuffed pork chops and potatoes in the oven. Supposed to have baked asparagus with them. Hope it’s all done before I have to leave for my Forest Lakes Board Meeting, tonight @ 6 PM

Check out my latest BLOG about The Power of the Real Estate Career To Teach and Guide: http://ping.fm/L7xC3

WOW! You guys didn’t tell me this Myelogram was such a heavy duty test. I went into it thinking it would be like any other MRI/Cat scan, etc. But rather it was much more. They actually puncture the fluid filled sacs in your spinal column and inject dye…

Finished posting Forest Lakes Market Up-Date onto http://ping.fm/rqJ5e Please, go take a look see, won’t you?

Going into Martha Jefferson hospital for a myelogram this morning (a diagnostic test of the spine, spinal chord, and nerve roots). Then a CAT scan. Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

I do most of the cooking for the household–a type of therapy for my ADHDDHAD or whatever it’s called–didn’t have those labels back when I was a boy! Given my druthers I’d be in my (dreams) 1971 454 SS Cheverolet convertible with the top down cruising the roads of this here US of A with my wife of 20+ years and 2 daughters.

Interests: Talking and “doing” real estate–love it! I play trombone (in the Charlottesville Municipal Band). I love NFL football and am a Pats fan from birth. I love to run and exercise 3-4 X week. I build and fly R/C airplanes and rockets. I have a boat in the Chesapeake. I enjoy fishing of all types–don’t do any fly fishing, though. I’m on our HOA Board in Forest Lakes.

I believe we’re all spiritual beings. We have a connection. It’s our job to try and find it and plug into eachother.
The only time I will schedule a business activity over a family one is if I’ve checked with the fam first.
I usually don’t work Sundays, again, only if I’ve OK’ed it with the family first.

O.K., I said I’d start. I’m gonna’ inter-mix business and professional since they are so intricately meshed together.
First, my philosophy: God, Family, Business. In that order.

Yes, Julia! By making sure we’re not just networking but that we’re trying to make a connection!
And that presents a challenge via typing–lost are the little nuances and subtleties of a smile or wink. Emoticons are cute, but not the same.

I’ll start by telling you about myself. Maybe who I am and what I ‘m about will strike a familiar and harmonious chord with some of you and we can begin to network for greater possibilities. What do you say?

I believe it requires the same level of familiarity that usually comes from face-to-face meetings, past working relationships, or colleague/friend referrals.
Can that deeper level of comfort and professional appreciation be developed through social media to the point that we can develop the trust necessary to refer our clients to one another?

So, the question is, how can we help each other gain a percentage % of that out-of-state business through referrals using social media?

Sources say that every one of us knows 1-2 people who are moving this year. And statistically, a % of those people will be relocating out of the area. So…

Feel free to contact me off-line: Fulton@kw.com

Oh, I’m sorry, I assumed because of your question that you were a Realtor, too. O.K. what line of work ARE you in? Do you use social mediums for your work, too?

No, not even a gold watch–9 years of blood, sweat, and tears with Remax, and nothing but memories. What company are you with, Katherine?

It’s NOT just about the money and splits, I know, but that monthly profit share is REAL nice. I’m not sure if other real estate companies around you are making profit, right now, let alone sharing it with their agents–but my Charlottesville KW is!

I’ve had 3 separate points in my real estate where I’ve “researched” available options. The first time I went with Remax. The 2nd and 3rd times both with Keller Williams.

Before that I was a Realtor with Remax for 9 years.

Hi Katherine–good stuff–funny! I’m WITH Keller Williams, I’m not THE Keller Williams. And yes, I owned a Keller Williams real estate FRANCHISE. Keller Williams corporate is out of Austin, Texas, and is currently the 3rd largest real estate company in the world! I am now a real estate AGENT with Keller Williams in Charlottesville, Virginia.

OPEN HOUSE–Today, 12 Noon to 4 PM

http://ping.fm/VGADW

Come by and say hello!

Like to see in the news resale numbers jumped–finally. I’ve been surprised that more buyers haven’t been jumping at the opportunities low interest rates, price drops, and tax incentives have presented. Boy, if I could buy right now…

Finishing Beginning 3rd Quarter Market Analysis Mailbox Stuffer–allows me an overview of the overall trends, too.

I’m working with some really great Realtors this year! Kay Robinson with Montague Miller, you’re a doll. Thanks Kay! And now Patti Lillard, also with Montague Miller–you’re AWESOME, Patti! Thanks for selling my townhome foreclosure!

Appraisal was a little worrisome because again, you wanted someone who understood the concept of passive solar and wouldn’t go in there and say “Hey! There ain’t no heatah in hee-ahh…” and what would they pull for comps?

Also, home was TALL–3 + stories, with lots of windows, so getting up on roof was an issue. Has well and septic, central wood stove, so only utility bill was an average $30/mo for electric.

I felt it was important to find an inspector who had some kind of background with passive solar homes–either in construction or design. All 3 I contacted met that criteria.

Closing on my first solar home today @ 4 PM keep your fingers crossed.

No, Mrs. says I would’ been labeled ADHD if they had that label back when I was a kid! I never coulda’ worked from home before–now, because I’m older? I can. But still have to deal with distractions! e.g. my 12 year old wants me to drive her to meet giggly friends at a restaurant right now…

Just got my first trombone gig–playing for a church Anniversary celebration–getting paid to play! Good to get back into playing, again. Municipal Band starts up again September 1st.

Yeah, thanks Jim, I guess I am kinda’ boring–I stopped smoking and drinking years ago. Found it wasn’t nearly as hard as losing weight! ‘Cause ya’ gotta’ eat! And at my age it all goes straight to my stomach!

Do not confuse motion and progress. A rocking horse keeps moving but does not make any progress.
—Alfred A. Montapert

What A Steal–just listed Foreclosure. Priced HALF of what it was built new for 3 years ago! South part of Albemarle County, Virginia. McMansion on 6+ acres. Gorgeous. Phone’s already ringing off the hook!

Got back from vacation Sunday. Was a mixed bag. Lots of pain after gruelling hike up Mt Moosilauke in NH. Let down going back to our old haunts in Maine–realized things don’t always change for the better. Nice to see family en route.

Wow !!
Didn’t mean to worry you all!
I don’t believe in surgery because once a pickle, never a cucumber again.
And I believe THIS doctor feels surgery is a last resort, too!

Doc says my spine’s all messed.
Oh well, back to the one thing that makes me whole again–Real Estate!

Calling it a day!
Have a great sleep with pleasant dreams of success!

My site: http://ping.fm/2veJj is really getting a lot of attention, lately. Please, go take a look and give me some feedback!

Just posted a new Foreclosure that offers instant equity! Listed @ $130,000 and most recent solds in complex have sold for $160-190,000!

Where’s the LOVE? 2000+ friends in my downline and only 6 responded to my request for feedback on http://ping.fm/RCulr OR http://ping.fm/zosZs OR http://ping.fm/KGLTB ???
Come on, take 2 minutes and click thru for me!

FEEDBACK REQUEST
Please, can you take a moment and review

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on May 17, 2009 at 11:14 pm

Re-built the web sites I erased! Please GoTo: http://ping.fm/PrEx3 and http://ping.fm/dAD6Y and

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on May 16, 2009 at 6:19 pm

Coming soon:
http://ping.fm/NeD8A

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In Uncategorized on May 16, 2009 at 6:18 pm

Sorry, no Open Houses, today!
Too wet, and graduations for UVA.

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In Uncategorized on May 3, 2009 at 7:48 pm

**OPEN HOUSE** in the rain!
Today, Sunday, May 3rd, 12 Noon to 4:00 PM
1823 Charles Ct, Hollymead Square Condos. Take any of 3 entrances off Rte 29 into Forest Lakes and just follow my signs!~See you there!

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on April 29, 2009 at 5:10 pm

Could you preview

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on April 26, 2009 at 6:17 pm

**OPEN HOUSE** 696 Deer Dr., Ruckersville–off 29 South, just past Sheetz and Food Lion. 12 Noon to 4:00 PM–come see me there!

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on April 15, 2009 at 8:45 pm

Market’s heating up! Preparing for a Saturday and Sunday OPEN HOUSE–2 different properties. See you there?

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on April 6, 2009 at 10:10 pm

Coming soon: a new and improved Unique Selling Proposition to garner new clients and serve them better with something THEY want!

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on March 16, 2009 at 10:46 pm

Social Networks UNITE! W-O-W ! Thank you, THANK YOU, T-H-A-N-K Y-O-U for all the happy birthday wishes. I am absolutely overwhelmed with how many of you said hello and wished me birthday happiness. Thank you. Now, it’s time. It’s time for us to make this social networking work for all of us in 2009!

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on February 22, 2009 at 8:20 pm

Writing a contract this morning–I know, it’s Sunday, I usually don’t work Sunday-but these clients are sweethearts and I don’t mind at all.

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on February 16, 2009 at 7:56 pm

Hello From Charlottesville, VA.

I’m doing a head count this morning. If you receive this, could you take a moment and “PING” me back. I want to know how many active fellow networkers I’m in Synch with.

Thank you!

Fulton@kw.com

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on February 5, 2009 at 6:49 am

My office has moved to a new, much nicer building and location! I am now at:
Keller Williams Realty
1885 Seminole Trail, Suite 100
Charlottesville VA 22901

434-220-2228
Fulton@kw.com

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on February 2, 2009 at 7:45 pm

http://ping.fm/2mqeD

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on February 2, 2009 at 6:57 pm

Growing my business through internet inter-connectivity with YOU! Today, could you take a moment and critique my newest web-site, please? GoTo: http://ping.fm/2mqeD
and let me know what you think.
A thousand and one thanks!
Fulton

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on January 28, 2009 at 8:01 pm

No school again, today! Ice, sleet, freezing rain, and cold.

I’m busy getting my new web site http://ping.fm/2mqeD up and running.

Go check it out and let me know what you think. Go ahead, it’ll only take a few minutes.

A thousand and one thanks!

▶ Comment

In Uncategorized on January 27, 2009 at 10:01 pm

Hi!

Take a moment to check out http://ping.fm/2mqeD There you’ll find a list of this week’s best Home Buys in Charlottesville and surrounding counties.

This includes foreclosures, bank owned and short sales, FSBO’s (for sale by owner), and properties I think are a “great deal” because sellers have adjusted their prices or have drastically reduced their asking price due to the economy.

Call me @ 434-220-2228 or e-mail: Fulton@kw.com with comments or suggestions!

▶ Comment

Charlottesville Real Estate-Top 10 Home Buys In Charlottesville-2008

In central va, charlottesville, charlottesville homes, charlottesville va, real estate, va on October 17, 2008 at 5:46 pm

I know, I’m a little behind.  Here it is the middle of October and I haven’t given you my Top 10 Home Buys.  I’m sorry! Thank you for writing to remind me!  I’m on it.

Charlottesville real estate sales, while off from last year, still show activity:

July Closed Sales                 212
August Closed Sales             156
September Closed Sales       118

So without further delay, here are my Top 10 Home Buys for October in and around the city of Charlottesville, and Albemarle County, Virginia.

And remember that my 20% Buyer Rebate Offer is still in effect!

GoTo:  http://www.BuyerRebateOffer.com

1. Shepherds Ridge

Sometimes it IS just about the numbers.  And many of these homes are aggressively priced and offer good value if you just take numbers into account.  Most ALL of them have been on the market way too long and need a new family to help them feel like a home again. I’m sure sellers would gladly negotiate.

Take this house.  Gorgeous.  4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 5,339 sq ft, 3 fireplaces!, 8 years old, and in coveted Dunlora! At $675,00 and sellers ready to talk–well, TALK!  And with my Buyer Rebate = $4,050 back to you at closing!

2. North Pantops Dr.

3,870 square feet at a cost of $549,900 after sellers instituted a HUGE price drop.  AND, they just installed hardwood floors and granite counter tops!  5 bedrooms, 4 baths, and a finished basement.  Large screened porch and private decks with incredible views.  Seconds to I-64 and downtown.  Buyer Rebate = $3,299

3. Dellwood Rd.

This home gets included because of the pure value–if you can overlook that it’s a Tudor style colonial.  Trust me, it’s worth a look, pictures are NOT always the best thing to rely on.  My wife knows that because she hated our house by looking at the pictures the Realtor posted–she almost didn’t go see it.  She’s very glad she did.

Here’s a home with 3,100 square feet, 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths on an acre and a quarter. Bridge over a babbling brook, trees, expansive lawn, $469,900.

10 miles out in the country? Nope, in Northfields, a minute from the Fashion Square Mall!  Believe it. Take a look.  Seller says make an offer. Buyer Rebate = $2,820

4. Old Forge Rd.

Location.  This home is in an established neighborhood close to Barracks Rd shopping and UVA.  Brick style home with 3,092 sq ft @ $416,000.  Do the math.  That’s a low $135/sq ft for 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, hardwood floors, fireplaced living room, and a screened porch.  Buyer Rebate = $2,496

5. Huntington Rd.

3,268 square foot house in Northfields with master suite on 1st floor, 3 more bedrooms and bath upstairs, finished basement with full in-law apartment (or to host huge Football parties!), Italian tile counters and maple cabinets, built in 2002.

Nice big 1 acre yard, and complete with a 2 car garage.  THAT’S why it made the list! Buyer Rebate = $2,670

6. King William Dr.

And it came to pass that he exalted his servants and said unto them “Let there be massive kitchens in which people can entertain their friends and nourish their families” so he built THIS kitchen.  Just look at it.  That’s what it’s all about.  Standing around the kitchen picking at a pizza or sharing homemade ice cream sundaes on a hot summers eve.

Build your own family memories in this wonderful kitchen.  The home is priced at $550,000 with 3,823 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage, full finished basement, in Dunlora.  WOW!  They had me at the kitchen!  Buyer Rebate = $3,300

7. Bedford Hills, Earlysville

Is that a gorgeous backyard or what?  I could just sit and enjoy the coming spring forever.  And a great value per square foot with 3,792 and a price of $575,000 = $152 per sq ft.

Oh yeah, it’s got a pool!  3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car detached garage, home theater, and a beautiful pool.  You have to take this property in.  WOW!  Buyer Rebate = $3,450

8. Ambrose Way

OMG, 6,100 square feet, 6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, $699,500 built in 2002 ? “Honey!  Remember you said you wanted a large family?  Well, here’s the house…now let’s get crackin’!”

This list is all about value and MORE value!  Value in finding gorgeous homes with good location, low price per square foot, with the amenities you want, all in good condition.  More value by searching out sellers possibly more willing to talk, and even more value with my 20% Rebate Offer!

Gorgeous home. Great value.

9. Belle Vista Dr.

Because I always wanted to be a Mob Boss, and living in this swank, luxurious mountaintop stronghold, would be a great first step.

115 acres with absolutely gorgeous mountain vistas, in-ground pool with cascading waterfalls, a 7,000 square foot absolute stunner. Seller has drastically dropped the price to $3,850,000 and check this out, with my Buyer Rebate you’d get $23,000 back at closing–enough to buy a LOT of cement galoshes!

Sunken 8 person hot tub in the sunroom with views and a full bar.  “Honey!! Pinch me and put the Sopranos DVD in.”

10. Woodlands Rd.  My wife made me put this one on the list.  But actually we both love this house. 60 rooms, 17,000 square feet, 50 acres, pool, tennis court, reflecting pools, and…

dual staircase.  How cool is that? $9,950,000, close to UVA.  Talk about your show stopping dream home?

Oh come on, it’s got fountains?

“Yes President, right this way into our parlour…”

Oh, you’re curious about the Buyer Rebate?  You purchase this home using my services and receive $59,700 rebate at closing !

For more info, comments, questions, or to schedule a showing for any property listed for sale in Central Virginia, and to sign up to receive your 20% Buyer Rebate, call or e-mail me:

Fulton Gaylord–Assoc. Broker
Keller Williams Realty
434-220-2228 (leave a message)
Fulton@kw.com

http://www.CharlottesvilleHomeSellingTeam.com

THANK YOU !

“Licensed to Sell Real Estate in Virginia”

“Each Office Independently Owned and Operated”

▶ Comment

The Ruckersville, VA Master Plan? Ugly Is As Ugly Does!

In central va, charlottesville, charlottesville homes, charlottesville va, real estate, va on October 13, 2008 at 9:57 am

Ugly is as ugly does. Let’s discuss the commercial corridor of Rte 29 in Ruckersville, Greene County, VA, and its inclusion in Greene County’s Master Plan for sustainable growth.  Because somethin’ ain’t workin’.

Drive south down Rte 29 from Madison, and you come to a lighted intersection with Rte 33 east/west.  You just passed an area on your right leveled to make way for Lowe’s and Wal-Mart. On your left is a broken down old shack that, if it’s July, is joined by a carnival style hawking booth where fireworks are sold to unwitting bargain seekers.  Your eye wanders to two more rundown buildings with huge signs describing rare antique finds and books are to be found inside.  Scanning around more, you see a Burger King, a gas station, and an old music store in a little hovel. You consult your map and it pin points you in the middle of Ruckersville, Greene County, Virginia.  And you realize, Ruckersville is ugly.

Ruckersville is Capitalism at its worst.  No regard for community planning.  No greenery or any thought for aesthetics.  Nope, build the cheapest, the fastest, and capitalize on the location right on 29. Ruckersville needs the taxes generated by its commercial base to support a small population.  It delights in allowing a Lowe’s and a Super Wal-Mart to come in and level the area so that we can enjoy convenience at bargain prices. Ugly is as ugly does.

Now the road expansion of Rte 33 up to the mountains and Skyline Drive was done very nicely.  Greene County got THAT right. Of course it’s become a huge source of easy funds for the local coffers as the county and state have seen fit to police this section of road with at least 6 unmarked vehicles of various sizes and colors as well as a slew of state and local troopers.  Wow!  That’s tax dollars hard at work.  Do you think we could possibly cut back on over-policing this high crime corridor and perhaps put some of that money into subsidizing an after school program for kids whose parent perhaps can’t afford it?

How about requiring a higher level of site aesthetics for all new construction here on out, and any sites that either change hands, rebuild, tear down, or improve current buildings–require them all to invest X amount of dollars towards bringing property up to a pre-set, planned expectation, in exchange for a tax credit.

Greene County officials reassure us that they DO have a plan. They could pull out a multi-page line by line plan and show us what tax revenue is generated, what it’s earmarked for, and their vision for the town going forward. But you know what? I can SEE the visible signs of their plan right before my very eyes, and I’m telling you, it’s ugly! The plan needs to be redone.

So, I think Ruckersville (Greene County) should take one year to develop a new Commercial Corridor Master Plan.  This plan would ensure that:

1. sustainable growth could continue well into the future, guaranteeing tax revenue to support a burgeoning community.

2. increase unique visitor stops by tourists as well as repeat visits from locals, thereby increasing business profits.

3. resources are appropriate for the needs of the community and being able to adjust accordingly (e.g. too many costly police monitoring a scenic by-way–is that the best use of our tax income?).

4. This plan would increase community pride—because we WANT to be proud of where we live.

5. empower citizens to dictate terms when negotiating with the Wal-Marts of the world, not the other way around, because their community now becomes the community of choice for businesses. Citizens don’t become slaves and answer to businesses beck and call just because the need for tax revenue to pay teachers, firefighters, and police is so desperate.

6. A plan like this would protect better against wild fluctuations in market values both for commercial AND residential interests

7. slow depreciation and erosion of values by requiring uniform property maintenance and construction standards that are clearly explained in the Master Plan.

8. build businesses with longevity and staying power. Bring in and support businesses that buy into the community’s vision for sustained development and health.

9. a master plan is equivalent to a business plan, and a community that has a plan that is fluid, all-encompassing, and pro-active has a better chance to attract matching state and federal funds as well as high bond ratings in order to raise capital.

–WE DON’T HAVE TO LIVE IN A DISPOSABLE SOCIETY–

We want our businesses to be community partners.  We don’t want them to be of the mind “here today, gone tomorrow”.

Communities too often sell their souls to the Devil just to turn a buck and get much needed tax revenue.  Too often towns and cities turn a blind eye to development regulation and zoning, and, as a result, poison our air and water and bulldoze any possibility for esthetically pleasing construction under the ground.

You see it all across America.  But you also see communities learning from their mistakes, you see communities able to change as the world changes.

So, is it too late for Ruckersville?

Green County doesn’t have the money to go develop a complicated new Master Plan.

And of course you have some who question whether one building is any uglier than the next? They don’t think the intersection area is that ugly.

And besides, many people would question how we can tell a business owner that he’s got to take from his profits to go gussy up his lot just so that he can fit in with some socialist Master Plan.  If a building IS ugly, it won’t attract any one, and it’ll go out of business soon enough–survival of the prettiest, right?

“We are what we are in Ruckersville”, they say. “ We’re at an intersection off Rte 29 in Greene County.  The American dream is all about taking opportunity and running with it.  Too bad for your weak business sense that has to have some government agency always come and make things right and equal for you, the less fortunate-BAH!”

“Keep it down there in Charlottesville with all them crunchy artsy-fartsy liberal wanna-bees.  We need to grow. We DON’T need someone who doesn’t understand business to tell us how to run ours!”

“And if you try, we’ll just go somewhere else.”

O.K. Alright. I understand. We all need to turn a buck. But hear this:

I had a commercial broker tell me the other day that if it gets too bad–or rather, WHEN it gets too built up and gross around here, he’ll just move.  He did it when it got bad down in Atlanta.  And before that, when he was in Jersey, too.

But this is my home.  I don’t WANT to pull up stakes and move.  I don’t want to live in a disposable community.

Can Capitalism and development go hand-in-hand with preservation of the heart and health of our community?

The one constant is the influx of more and more people into our area. More population pressure means eventually, limited space and resources, which causes a town’s infrastructure to suffer, which ultimately degrades our community.

That’s why planning is vital to the long term health of a community.

Planning means:

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>We must first identify citizen’s needs,

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>we qualify and quantify these needs, prioritizing them by popular vote,

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>we raise tax revenue to pay for these needs,

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>we solicit other possible funding sources—i.e. bonds, state and federal assistance,

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>our master vision for the community stretches far into the future, and protects our future generations,

<!–[if !supportLists]–>· <!–[endif]–>and, we must also look to repair what is by developing a retro-active quality standard to help us bring a larger measure of beautification to the intersection of 29 and 33, now.

The intersection of Rte 33 and Rte 29 is horrifically ugly. But you know, we CAN do something about it. And the first thing we can do is develop a Commercial Corridor Master Plan with input from our citizens and broadcast its winning vision across the region. If we don’t?  Then ugly is as ugly does.

 

 

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I’m a Realtor Who Had To Hire A Realtor…

In Uncategorized on August 27, 2008 at 9:05 am

I’m a Realtor.

I’m a Realtor who lives in Virginia.

I’m a Realtor who lives in Virginia but (still) owns his ex-homestead in another state.

I’m a Realtor who had to hire a Realtor to sell my ex-homestead in another state.

I’m a very un-happy Virginia Realtor because I hired the worst Realtor this side of the Mississippi to sell my ex-homestead in another state.

I’m a very un-happy Virginia Realtor because I hired the wrong person to sell my ex-homestead far away in another state.  That was my fault.  I was a dummy. I know that because my wife reminded me of it daily.

BUT, I’m now a wiser Virginia Realtor because I (re) learned several key things when hiring a Realtor. And I am relaying them to you so that you’ll likewise be much the wiser and your wife won’t call you a dummy.

First, I learned perspective.  Going through the process of interviewing, hiring, and working with several Realtors as a consumer, was illuminating.  All I wanted was a weekly call from my Realtor.  A simple call.  No big woop.  Tell me if there were any showings, what the feedback was, and what marketing activity was done to promote my property.  Not a long call.  If there’s nothing to report I’m not gonna’ bite your head off.   Just call me and let’s talk.

But apparently follow-up and follow-thru are one of the most difficult things to do for the Realtors I dealt with.  

Next, I learned N E V E R hire a friend, a relative, or someone you feel OBLIGATED to work with.  Worst thing you can do.  Whomever you hire should earn the job like anyone else.  They should PROVE to you that they’re the best person for the job.  They should have global exposure through their internet presence and professional and social networking channels.  

They should be professional marketers who also happen to show homes occasionally.

The Realtor you hire should be accountable for the results they do or don’t produce.

The Realtor you hire should have a strong grasp of the local market, and armed with this knowledge, should be able to support very accurately the price opinion they determine is best for the sale of your home within the time frame you indicated would be ideal.

Your Realtor should be excited to be a Realtor and excited about the prospect of selling your home.

The Realtor you choose should be a full-time agent who derives their livelihood solely from the sale of real estate.  No part-timers.  Markets change and there’s too much to keep up with now-a-days for part-timers to be truly effective and provide the best service to you with the least liability.

Your Realtor shouldn’t always be yapping.  They should be able to hear YOU when you talk.

Your Realtor should look professional.  What’s with Realtors wearing jeans and a t-shirt?

Now, one clarification.  

Am I saying all Realtors are moronic, poorly dressed, deaf, unknowledgeable goons somehow related to you?  No.  But it IS too easy to get into real estate, and it’s too easy to get out.  That’s why in our Charlottesville market alone there are over 1100 people who hold real estate licenses. Out of those 1100 less than 200 of them did more than 7 transactions last year.  I don’t think the other 900 or so can really say they’re successful, professional, full-time, market sensitive Realtors on a mission to sell your home.

Anyway, that’s just my two cents worth.  I love the art of selling real estate. I’m proud to make my living as a Realtor.  And I’m grateful to have the tables turned so that I could see through the eyes of a consumer, giving me a special gift—the gift of perspective. 

I’m a Realtor in Virginia who had to hire a Realtor.

I’m a Realtor in Virginia who had to hire a Realtor—and that opportunity, and the lessons I learned from it, will help me understand the needs of my clients better, and that, I hope, will make me a better, more successful Realtor.

Thanks for reading!

Visit my web-site:  http://www.CharlottesvilleHomeSellingTeam.com

E-mail me: Fulton@kw.com

 

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Top 10 Best Home Buys In Charlottesville–July, 2008

In central va, charlottesville, charlottesville homes, charlottesville va, real estate, va on July 17, 2008 at 1:28 am

As a Realtor I am privy to a lot of proprietary information re: the condition of homes, seller circumstances that can affect value, along with visual inspections of homes I show to clients and customers.  As a result every month I compile and present my Top 10 Best Home Buys In Charlottesville.  Here then is my Top 10 list for the month of July.

Feel free to call or e-mail if you need further information on any of these listings or to schedule a showing.

Fulton Gaylord–Associate Brker
Keller Williams Realty
434-964-7474
Fulton@kw.com

http://www.CharlottesvilleHomeSellingTeam.com

1.)  Priced at $289,900, or $126 per sq ft, this home is a great buy.  It is convenient to everything being right off Rte 29 and near Rio Rd west.  Open Floor plan and chef’s kitchen overlooking deck & full fenced backyard. Hardwood & ceramic tile flrs, large master (2 BRs combined) plus 2nd BR & 2 full tiled BAs on main level, finished lower level is perfect as rec/game/media room AND has grandfathered 3rd BR. Lots of storage inside & out. Lisitnd advertises that purchasers will receive an 8 day 7 night Hawaiian Lodging accommodation upon closing!  Can I come too as your chaperone?

2.)  500 Frays Mountain Rd in Earlysvile also comes in @ $289,900 = to only $114 sq ft!   All brick home situated on a lush, elevated, but level, 2 acre lot. Hardwood floors throughout first level. Spacious family room with wet bar and brick hearth fireplace, great for the family and entertaining. Large rear deck and stone patio area. Very private rear back yard – great for kids or pets. 400 and a 200 sq. ft. storage buildings.  Paved drive. Lots of parking. All very well maintained. Priced for quick sale – owner relocating.

3.)  4327 Chris Greene Lake Rd.  $299,999 with a price per sq ft of only $111  Near the entrance to the lovely Chris Greene Lake park, this cute 4 bedroom, 3 bath ranch has an updated kitchen, formal living room w/ woodstove, huge master bedroom suite w/ gas log fireplace, family room w/ stone fireplace, rec. room, workshop, like new hardwood floors, & ceramic tile bathrooms. Possible 5th BR in basement. Over 600 sqft of wrap-around deck overlooking the above ground pool. Complete with home security system.

4.)  2405 Barracks Rd @ $315,000 is a 2990 sq ft home with 6 bedrooms and 3 baths.  It is smack-dab in the middle of all the action.  1/2 mile to the main UVA campus, JPJ arena, Barracks Road shopping, Darden, and the School of Law.  City ameneties with county taxes! Almost 1/2 acre of land at at $105 per sq foot makes this a good deal.

5.)  2445 Redbud Lane.  Coming in @ $425,00 and 3724 sq ft, 4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths, this contemporary style home has one of the lowest per sq footage price of $114 ! Custom-built, impeccably-maintained, light-filled, and spacious this home is just minutes from C-ville. Open, flowing family/dining/kitchen area. Vaulted sunroom overlooks private backyard. Master bedroom has cathedral ceiling and large palladium window. Hardwood and ceramic tile floors through-out first level, lovely fireplaces (slate and stone.) Spacious shed. $3000 carpet allowance for basement (w/ acceptable offer.) NEW roof, NEW heatpumps, NEW water heater.

6.)  1072 Ramblewood Pl. $375,000, $113/sq foot !  Priced well below its tax assessment, sellers welcome lease/purchase with a qualified buyer. This choice 4 bd colonial in close-in, desirable Raintree has a host of recent renovations and improvements, including new front porch, hardiplank siding, tilt windows, roof, skylights, Trex deck, heat pump and 3rd bath in finished terrace level. Other highlights are the 1st floor study, vaulted ceilings in family room and master bedroom, wood floors and an elevated, private site with mature trees.

7.)  3027 Colonial Dr. 3760 sq ft for only $410,00 brings the cost per sq ft to only $109.  Solid built Builder’s Home has 5 possble. bedrooms and 4 full baths. Beautiful hardwood floors in the Living room, diningroom, in the Master bedroom and the other three bedrooms. Brick fireplace including fireplace insert in family room is off the huge eat-in kitchen. Kitchen has really nice oak  cabinets and a bay window. A 5th bedroom or other room with full bath is off the kitchen and away from from the other bedrooms. Screened in back porch off the kitchen and familyroom.

8.)  3503 Monacon Dr.  Location, location, location!  House features very large rooms,hardwood floors,built-in shelving,formal living & dining rooms, family room on main level could be additional bedroom, full bath on main level, large eat-in kitchen, rec room, sunroom overlooking private backyard with in-ground pool, large spacious bedrooms upstairs with hardwood floors, 2 zone heat pump recently replaced, roof replaced 8 years ago, house has been very well maintained. Seller offering one year Homebuyers Warranty.

9.)  320 Shepherds Ridge Circle. According to the listing Realtor, this is the BEST value in Dunlora!  5339 sq ft for $700,000 giving it a sq footage cost of only $131 ! Location, condition, price – the perfect combination! Private, yet close to everything!  The spacious two room first floor owner’s retreat opens to the private spa and deck. Lovely sunroom, spacious terrace level, lawn irrigation system, & lovely flowering trees. This “executive home” features exterior lawn maintance provided by the HOA. Immaculate condition inside & out.

10.)  Lake Monticello. Sitting alongside the 15th hole & 16th Tee lies this wonderful home, Bring your Golf bag. 5 Bedroom, 3 bath, large oversized rear deck, Great room w/ Frpl, wood flooring on main level, kitchen & ALL baths have tile, basemnt has carpet, huge kit w/ breakfast nook, master off kitchen, mud room off kitchen, full length deck overlooking backyard (and Golf Course!), oversized 2 Car garage w/ shelving, 2 Zone HVAC, ALL Appliances Convey, basement rec room, 2 storage rooms in basement, storage space galore!

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