Tuesday, May 31, 2011

The Kindness of a Stranger - I LOVE Richmonders!

The Kindness of a Stranger - I LOVE Richmonders!

Yesterday started off full of promise. I took a day off work to celebrate Memorial Day with my favorite Vet, my husband, and my two kids. We had a lot to accomplish during the day in preparation for a small BBQ that evening. Amazingly, we were all up, dressed, and ready to go by 10am. (Not easy in this house!)

After I finished buckling the kids into their car seats, I went to turn on the car to get the air conditioning on full blast. (We have been having some scorchers in Richmond as of late!) The minute I put the key in and turned it, my car started for a second and then...Nothing. Hubby evaluated the situation and with the help of a fellow neighbor (kindness number 1) we were jumped and heading off to run our errands.

As we went places, we left the car running to make sure the battery was charging. After about 2 hours we decided it would be safe to turn off the car and head in to Target. Once we finished shopping, we headed out to the car and....Nothing! There we were stuck at Target in the humid Richmond heat with no alternative but to call a tow truck. As I turned to head back into the store with the kids to call a tower, I yelled to my husband what I was doing. In that moment a woman turned around and threw her keys to my husband and said "here you go. I have to run into the store, but go ahead and try to jump your car with mine. I will be right back." (kindness number 2)

My husband and I stood there. Stunned. Did this stranger really just throw us keys to her SUV and walk into the store? Yes. Yes she did. My husband started to go after her and say he couldn't do that, but I stopped him and said to get jumping! Sure enough, we were able to get the car started and we waited for her to return. I offered to buy her coffee, but she declined and said she was happy to help. She went on her merry way and we went to Napa to get a battery!

Once we were at Napa, we were treated with even more Southern Hospitality as cashiers helped my husband install the new battery on site. (kindness number 3) It wasn't in their job description to do it, but it was in their hearts.

I was very proud to call Richmond home and Richmonders friends yesterday. Now, to pay it forward. Not sure if I will just toss someone my keys (seriously, that took GUTS), but I will be on the look out for an opportunity to give back. To all those who helped us on our little journey yesterday, I have one word: Karma. May you all experience the goodness you deserve!

Thinking about making Richmond your next home? Contact me, your Richmond Realtor, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!

To begin your Richmond Home Search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

All Gave Some, Some Gave All

All Gave Some, Some Gave All


As the eve of Memorial Day comes to a close, I am sitting on the couch relaxing. I spent the day doing a little real estate work (okay, touring new communities...one of the fun benefits to my job!), cleaning, grocery shopping, and preparing for our little Memorial Day "party" taking place tomorrow with our neighbors. It was an exhausting day and one I am glad is over!

However, as I sit here and think about the holiday we are about to celebrate, I am struck by what the day, Memorial Day, really means - acknowledging and remembering those who gave the ultimate price for OUR FREEDOM. In other words, STRANGERS DIED...for US! It is remarkable when you REALLY think about. You hear stories in the news about people jumping in front of a car to save another and you think (at least I do), "would I have been able to do that?" And yet, these service men and woman, over a million of them, make that choice for us Every Single Day. Can you wrap your head around that? It's amazing!

So, as I sit here complaining about how tired I am from doing my job (to which I am blessed), from cleaning (to which I am fortunate to have a roof over my head), from grocery shopping (having my pick of fresh fruits and veggies all in the comfort of an air conditioned store), and from preparing for a party (to which I am ALIVE and kicking and able-bodied to do)...I am humbled.

To those that died, THANK YOU. To those families who lost a dad, a mom, a brother, a sister, THANK YOU. And, to those who have served and are presently serving, THANK YOU.

Wishing you all a happy, and SAFE, Memorial Day!

Friday, May 27, 2011

Which Oprah Farewell Guest is Coming to Richmond?

Which Oprah Farewell Guest is Coming to Richmond?
As I watched the two-day spectacular that was in honor of Oprah’s 25 seasons on television, I marveled at the caliber of some of her surprise guests. There was Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Maria Shriver, Usher, Tom Cruise, Queen Latifah, and the list goes on and on and on! One of my favorite guests from this show is making his way to the Richmond Coliseum on Tuesday, June 14th at 7:30PM. Tickets are still available and range in price from $66 to $76, with student tickets available for just $25.
Who IS this mystery guest? The one and only Josh Groban! Okay, okay. So he isn’t as flashy as say the Black Eyed Peas, but Josh Groban doesn’t need all of those flashing lights and fireworks...no, he relies on that golden voice that many of us first discovered on an episode of Ally McBeal!
So, order your tickets and mark your calendars for a night you are sure to remember. Hey, if it is good enough for Oprah, it is good enough for Richmond!
Excited by all the opportunities that the Richmond area brings and ready to make a move? Then contact me, your Richmond Realtor, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!
To begin your Richmond Home Search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Henrico County Homes for Sale with a Basement

Henrico County Homes for Sale with a Basement


Wow! Today is a HOT one here in the RVA! The thermometer is tipping over 90 and the humidity is almost unbearable! I just tried to take my kids on a nice after dinner walk, but we returned home after only 7 minutes...even the dog wanted to come home early!

On days like these I am very grateful that we have a Richmond home with a basement! Now, ours isn't finished (yet...that's a distant future project) but it does provide a nice, COOL place for us to retreat to...a place where the kids can ride their bikes indoor, play with some toys, or just escape this humid Richmond weather!

If this is the kind of option you would like in your next Richmond area home, you are in luck! Although basements are not the norm around here, there are some great homes on the market with this luxury! Below you will find some stats on current homes with basements in Henrico County:

Henrico County Homes for Sale with a Basement

Active Listings with a Basement
235
Average List Price
$407,688
Average Days on Market
92
Highest Priced Listing
$2,799,000
Lowest Priced Listing
$34,900

*Information from the Central Virginia Multiple List Service. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. As of 5/23/2011
As you can see, there are 235 Henrico County homes for sale with a basement currently listed with the highest listing price at $2,799,000 and the lowest listed price at $34,900...Something for every budget!
If you would like to tour some of these Henrico County homes for sale with a basements, I would be happy to be your guide! Contact your Glen Allen Realtor, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, today and let me light your way to Home Sweet Home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!
To begin your Richmond Home Search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

So We Are Still Here

So We Are Still Here

Yesterday was in interesting one. There was a lot of chatter going on about the Rapture, and then later in the evening, the lack there of. It got me to thinking about some things and I wanted to share some of my random thoughts:

1) I wonder how many babies will be born in, say, about 9 months from now? Enough said.
2) For those who believed the Rapture was going to happen yesterday and quit their jobs or gave away their life savings, where do they go from here? Will they keep their faith? Will they abandon their prior beliefs?
3) For those who don't believe in the Rapture, where do they go from here? Will yesterday's lack of events serve as their proof?
4) Life is short...no matter what you believe. ALL of our days are numbered.
5) Live life to the fullest and with PURPOSE every single day.

The Rapture didn't happen yesterday. For those who believe, it will happen someday and no man shall be able to predict the day or hour. For those who don't believe, their life shall go on like it did yesterday and the days before. BUT, no matter what you believe or don't believe, this much is true: None of us are guaranteed tomorrow.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

So, How is YOUR New Year's Resolution Going?

So, How is YOUR New Year's Resolution Going?


As every new year comes around, I try and think about the things I would like to improve or do differently in my life. New Year's provides the perfect opportunity for a clean slate. This past New Year's I decide to make just ONE resolution so that I could focus on it and give myself better odds of sticking to it.

So, what is my resolution? To not turn down ANY invitation unless I absolutely can not make it for legitimate reasons. (For example: sickness, prior commitments) Now, to some of you that might not seem like a hard thing to accomplish. But, for me, it is a challenge. You see, I am VERY social and I often joke that I could talk to a tree...and that's true. BUT, I am also a homebody who would prefer to snuggle up on the couch with a warm blanket, some rich ice cream, and a decadent television show. (Housewives of anywhere, The Good Wife, and 20/20 are some of my favorites.)

Thus far into the year, I must say I am pretty proud of myself for sticking with my resolution. Being open to try new things has enriched my life. I have met new people and, in general, have a new appreciation for things. So far I have met an old college room-mate for ice cream (okay, that one wasn't too hard since it involved something yummy, lol), went to a home jewelry party, meet a new friend for wine, attended a community celebration, walked in the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Walk, had various play dates with other mothers, gone to lunch with those who started off as strangers and have ended up friends, traveled to Virginia Beach, attended a mom's night out event, become the social committee chair for my HOA, and the list goes on and on and on. My calendar for the summer months is starting to fill-up with great new adventures...and, surprisingly, I can't wait!

Why is this resolution important to me? Well, it serves two purposes. First, it allows me to network and expand my business...something anyone in a sales related industry can appreciate. Secondly, and most importantly, it has created a great source of new friends...something that isn't as easy to come by as you get older. I used to sit around with my husband and say, "why don't we have many friends and why don't we get invited to things." Well, now the answer is clear as day: because it takes EFFORT! Sure, in the beginning of any relationship you are certain to get invites to things, but the more you turn down those offers, the faster those invites dwindle!

If you struggle with a certain aspect or life challenge, I encourage you to confront it and work through it. When you start to emerge on the other side, it is an AMAZING view!

So, How is YOUR New Year's Resolution Going?

Shannon Milligan, Glen Allen Reatlor at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, is lighting your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate and the surrounding Richmond Real Estate market. To begin your Richmond area home search, please click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Henrico County Homes for Sale with a Swimming Pool

Henrico County Homes with a Swimming Pool


Today is a gorgeous day in Richmond. The last few days have left many of us feeling water logged, but days like today make you quickly forget! After spending a little time in the great outdoors this morning, I got to thinking about summer and that naturally led me to swimming.

My husband and I recently built a new home and have been working hard on putting in the finishing touches like a deck, swing set, and backyard fence. (My guy does GREAT work, so email me if you want his info.) We are now discussing what our next project will be and the idea of a swimming pool came up. As much as I love the IDEA of having a pool and all the fun that brings, I just don't think the maintenance is for me. After some more discussion, we decided to put that decision off for the distant future.

But, if having a pool is what you WANT in your next home, have no fear! I recently ran a report on homes in Henrico County with a pool. Check out the chart below:

Henrico County Homes for Sale with a Swimming Pool

Active Listings with a Pool
69
Average List Price
$484,554
Average Days on Market
97
Highest Priced Listing
$2,799,000
Lowest Priced Listing
$152,500

*Information from the Central Virginia Multiple List Service. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. As of 5/18/2011
As you can see, there are 69 Henrico County homes for sale with a swimming pool in many different price ranges. The lowest priced home for sale with a pool is $152,500 and the highest is in the high $2 million dollar range. So, something for nearly ever budget!
Want more details on these Henrico County homes for sale with a swimming pool? Want details on other Richmond homes for sale with a pool? Contact me, Shannon Milligan, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market.
To begin your Richmond area home search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Richmond Area Staycations

Richmond Area Staycations

The end of the Richmond school year is closing in on us and has plenty of people thinking about those far too important vacation plans. But, as we continue to recover from the economic slow down, many are trying to find alternatives to pricey destinations. And, that leads to the STAYCATION!
If you are lucky enough to live in the Richmond area, you have abundant choices for some fabulous quick trips. Below you will find some of my favorites for a Richmond Staycation:
Kings Dominion – This awesome amusement park is located just 20 miles north of Richmond in Doswell, Virginia. There is something for everyone here such as thrill rides for the adults, Planet Snoopy for the kids, and even WaterWorks water park that is INCLUDED with park admission! Currently, you can purchase the value season passes for just $80 per person.
Busch Gardens – Here is another fantastic theme park located in Williamsburg, Virginia only 55 miles from Richmond. Enjoy the 2011 Live Concert Series with guests such as Colbie Caillat, Miranda Cosgrove, Pat Benatar, and Neil Sedaka! In addition, explore the Animal Encounters, Sesame Street Forest of Fun, and don’t forget the amazing new Mach Tower!
Great Wolf Lodge – Ready to get wet? Then this is your kind of place! This magnificent indoor waterpark can be found in historical Williamsburg, Virginia, which is less than an hour away from Richmond. With over 500,000 gallons of “swirling, sloshing sliding water” you are bound to have a great time! Try out the 8 slides, 5 pools, giant water fort, and so much more! (Minimum of one night stay)
Lake Anna – Looking for a little peace and quiet? Look no further! Lake Anna, the “second largest fresh-water inland lake in Virginia, with over 250 miles of shoreline and some 13,000 surface acres of water,” is only an hour away from your Richmond home! Rent a boat and relax on the water, bring your fishing gear and cast off into the sunset, or participate in some wonderful water sports. No matter what you do, enjoy the beauty of nature all around you!
Colonial Williamsburg – Are you a history buff? You will be in heaven here! Explore this historical area with over “301 acres including 88 original 18th-century structures.” Visit practicing tradesmen such as an Apothecary, Basketmaker, Blacksmith, Cabinetmaker, and the Milliner where you can see 18th-century fashions in the making!
These are just a FEW of the things you can do near Richmond to take a break from it all while being close to home. In addition, don’t forget to check out the James River, take in a ballgame with the Flying Squirrels, and attend one of Richmond’s many museums such as: The Richmond Art Museum, The Virginia Museum of Fine Art, The Richmond Museum of History, the Science Museum of Richmond, the Edgar Allen Poe Museum, and the list goes on and on and on!
Rethinking where you live and want to explore your options in the Henrico County Real Estate or the surrounding Richmond Real Estate market? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home!

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Market Update for Glen Allen, Virginia

Market Update for Glen Allen, Virginia


Active Single Family Homes
301
Ave. List Price
$319,392
Ave. Days on Market
86


Pending Home Sales
158
Ave. List Price
$349,379
Ave. Days on Market
58


Total Listings
459
Ave. List Price
$329,714
Ave. Days on Market
76


*Information from Central Virginia Regional Multiple Listing Service. Information reliable but not guaranteed. May 15, 2011

Thinking about making sought-after Glen Allen your new home? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!

To begin your Glen Allen Home Search, please click here: Glen Allen Homes.


Friday, May 13, 2011

Virginia Home Sales Outlook for First Quarter 2011

Virginia Home Sales Outlook for First Quarter 2011
Virginia Quarterly Residential Sales
According to the Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR), Virginia Home Sales stabilized in the first quarter of 2011. "January and February home sales in 2011 exceed the same month the prior year (by 2.5 % and 3.5%).." and "first quarter 2011 home sales (16,547 units) showed a marginal improvement over first quarter 2010 (16,499 units).  The coming quarter will show if it can keep pace with the many closings in second quarter 2010 that were likely related to the federal home buyer tax credit."
In addition, VAR provided highlights of the first quarter, including:
  • First quarter 2011, with $4.4 billion of residential sales, has matched the starting pace of each of the past two years ($4.4 billion in 2009-Q1, $4.5 billion in 2010-Q1).
  • The Hampton Roads / Chesapeake Bay region showed the best performance in the state, with a 13% increase in home sales, over first quarter of 2010.
  • Despite turbulent times in housing markets across the country, the median sales price of homes in Virginia has only declined a total of 16% over the past three years. Most recently, since the first quarter of 2010, the median sales price has declined 6.7% to $210,000.
  • Foreclosures saw a 20.8% overall decline across the state and is a promising indicator that we may see a gradual improvement in the health of the overall housing market.
  • While the unemployment rate has increased 75% in Virginia over the past three years to 6.3%, it is currently down from 7.4% in March 2010.
By most accounts, this is encouraging news!

Thinking about putting your home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estatemarket and don't know where to begin? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and lets work together to get your home SOLD!

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Spielberg Brings "Lincoln" to Richmond; Lincoln Casting Call

Spielberg Brings "Lincoln" to Richmond; Lincoln Casting Call


The rumors are true! Academy Award Winning Director Steven Spielberg will be filming his next upcoming project, "Lincoln" in the Richmond and Petersburg area! Attached to the film are Academy Award Winners Daniel-Day Lewis as President Lincoln and Sally Field as Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd Lincoln. In addition, other possible names in negotiation with the film include: Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Spader, and Hal Holbrook just to name a few!

As if it isn't enough to be filming such a historical film here in Richmond, Virginia, Spielberg is also on the hunt for a LOCAL to play the part of Abraham Lincoln's son, Tad! Those boys interested in auditioning for the part should range in age from 9-11 and must email required information prior to the May 14th audition to: tadlincolncasting@gmail.com. Required info includes: a photo (snap shot is acceptable), resume in the body of the email (however no experience is necessary), age, height, area of residence, and your availability for the Lincoln casting call on Saturday, May 14th in Richmond, Virginia.

So, get your autograph books handy and keep your eye out for some of Hollywood's elite filming right here in Richmond this fall!

Ready to make some history of your own and be the star in your home buying journey? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!

To begin your home search, please click: Richmond Area Homes.

Monday, May 9, 2011

New Construction Luxury Townhome Immediate Delivery at The Villas at Hunton Park

New Construction Luxury Townhome Immediate Delivery at The Villas at Hunton Park

Want all the benefits of new construction without the wait time? Then this luxury, Ryan Homes townhome is for you! The Villas at Hunton Park proudly presents the Norwood model on homesite 7B for May delivery*. Just pack your boxes and move right into this 3 bedroom, 2 full bath & 2 half bath 3000sqft, Energy Star qualified, full brick front home with 2 car garage!  Features include a gourmet kitchen with 42” cherry cabinets, granite countertops, and GE Stainless steel appliances including double wall ovens, microwave, dishwasher, and gas cooktop...a cooks dream! Other finishing touches include gleaming hardwood floors throughout the entire 2nd floor, a roman shower in the owner’s bath, a 10X19 deck, and so much more!
Want us to sweeten the pot a little more? Then purchase this home by the end of May and take advantage of $5000 towards closing costs or $5000 towards options – the choice is yours!**
Proudly offered at $279,990!
Ready to tour your new, fabulous home? Then call Ryan Homes sales representative Aaron Van Dyke at 804-264-4060 or contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, today and let us light your way to home sweet home!
To begin your Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate home search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.
*Price only valid on specified home on specified homesite with specified community features and house standards as advertised  above.  **Purchaser must settle with NVR Mortgage to receive advertised closing costs. May not be transferred or combined with other incentives or discounts. See Sales Representative for details.
Prices and offers subject to change without notice. 05/2011


Saturday, May 7, 2011

Richmond's Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure - SUCCESS!

Richmond's Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure - SUCCESS!



Today was a gorgeous day here in the RVA and the weather was the perfect backdrop for Richmond's Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure! Thousands of walkers and runners of all ages joined forces on Brown's Island to stand together in the fight against breast cancer. It was an inspiring event and an emotional one as participants remembered those who have passed and celebrated those who have won the good fight.

As I was walking and talking to some new friends, it dawned on me just how powerful the walk really is. As I mentioned in a previous entry, I am fortunate not to know anyone who has been touched by breast cancer. So, why did I walk? Well, I did it for two main reasons: 1) because someday I am sure to know someone who HAS been affected by breast cancer and I want to be able to say I am making a difference and 2) because I can...because I have my health and am able to walk for those who wish for nothing more than to be able to do simple tasks with a clean bill of health.

To those volunteers who encouraged us walkers throughout, I applaud you. And to those survivors, I admire you!

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Best of Richmond

Best of Richmond

Planning a visit to Richmond and want to know some of the local favorites? No worries, we have you covered! Richmond.com recently printed "The Besties", the best local establishments voted on by readers. Check out the list below and start making your own list of places you want to hit up on your next visit:

Best Beer Selection: MEKONG
Runner-up: Capital Ale House

Best Burger: 821 Cafe
Runner-up: Carytown Burgers & Fries

Best Greasy Spoon: River City Diner
Runner-up: Perly's and Dot's Back Inn (tie)

Best Salad Bar: Strawberry Street Cafe
Runner-up: Whole Foods

Best BBQ: Q Barbecue
Runner-up: The Alamo

Hungry yet?! I know I am!

Made your visit and ready to make Richmond HOME? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, and let me light your way to home sweet home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market!

To begin your home search, please click: Richmond Area Homes.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

The Villas at Hunton Park – Immediate Delivery

The Villas at Hunton Park – Immediate Delivery

Your hunt is over! Come home to The Villas at Hunton Park with this brand new, immediate delivery Griffin model home by Ryan Homes! This two car, end-unit townhome boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, and 2,100 sqft of luxury living space. Let gleaming hardwood floors welcome you home after a long day and cook your meals in a gourmet kitchen complete with 42” Maple cabinets, dependable solid surface countertops, and a GE appliance package including a range, dishwasher, microwave, and washer and dryer! Looking to relax? You have options! Retreat to your great room and turn on the fabulous gas fireplace or head outside to your lovely new 10X16 aggregate patio...the choice is yours!
All of this, plus Energy Star qualified, at the affordable price of just $259,990*! PLUS, you may take advantage of the May incentives of either $5000 towards closing costs or $5000 towards options**!
What are you waiting for? Schedule your tour today by calling Ryan Homes Sales Representative Aaron Van Dyke at 804-264-4060 or me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty at 804-248-8207, and let us light your way to home sweet home!
To begin your Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate home search, click here: Richmond Area Homes.

Monday, May 2, 2011

I’m Selling My Richmond House. Should I Have a Home Warranty?

I’m Selling My Richmond House. Should I Have a Home Warranty?


This is a good question and one that I would say a resounding YES to! The moment your home hits the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market, you want to be sure you and your house are covered in the event of something happening.

Things break in a house. It is part of home ownership. Washers stop, dryers catch on fire, and HVAC units go on the fritz. But, with the right home warranty package, you can protect your investment and your wallet! I know the thought of spending, say, $500 on a house you will no longer live in may seem excessive, but when looking at the big picture, having a home warrantyis a small investment for some peace of mind. Think of it as a small insurance policy. If your HVAC unit should break while it is on the market or under contract, it could be a much bigger expense than $500!

To that end, I encourage all of my clients to invest in a good home warranty package. Not only does it protect you, but it also is attractive to a potential buyer who will take over the coverage after closing. There are many different home warranty companies with different levels of protection and I can help you select the right one for your situation.

Thinking about putting your home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estatemarket? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty, to get on your way to SOLD!

For more information on selling your Richmond home, please visit: Selling Richmond.