Why Green Homes Matters

Once again, I am thrilled to welcome back guest blogger Andrew Hill, with Reilly Realtors in Austin Texas! Today Andrew explains how wrong Kermit really was: it IS easy being GREEN!

 Why Green Homes Matters

By Andrew Hill @ www.AustinHomeListings.com

 Have you noticed the green trend that’s been happening lately? Whether it’s from the smallest of things, like your reusable shopping bag to investing in a green car or solar energy, it’s easy to see that the green movement has swept the country, including the Richmond Real Estate market. While we might speculate all day on why this has occurred, I think a more valuable use of our time would be to decide what to do with this new cultural element. After all, the once space age concept of using all sorts of new green products is no longer such a foreign idea. Even the concept of retrofitting or build a green home is no longer a novelty- but is in fact, a reality.

Before you think to yourself “Aren’t green homes very expensive?” or “Will I have to live in a house made of recycled soda bottles?” let’s get a few things straight.

1.      Going green doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of ways to go green that will actually save you money. Furthermore, because there is not an official standard to determine whether a home is “green” or not, you can make as many or as few retrofits as you like.

2.      Going green doesn’t have to be a complete alteration of your lifestyle. Many people who switch to green home retrofits can enjoy life the way they are used to, with the added benefit of being healthier and conserving the planet.

So what are some great ways to start green retrofitting your Richmondhome? Based on your budget and enthusiasm, you’ll find that there is quite a large threshold for what you can do.

For baby steps, why not try replacing your old incandescent bulbs with CFLs? In addition to using significantly less energy than older incandescent lighting, CFLs also have a considerably longer lifespan. Want another inexpensive solution? Switching your faucets and showerheads to low flow alternatives is another option. Thanks to marvelous engineering, many of these modern adapters can deliver the same pressure you’re accustomed to while reducing your overall water consumption.

So what if you’re really excited about going green? In this case, you should consider buying Energy Star appliances. These government certified products guarantee a reduction in energy used, thus contributing to a greener planet. Another great option is opting for solar powered appliances when able. For example, many homes can now cool their homes and/or heat their pools via solar panels mounted either on their roofs or even in extra yard space.

The point is, creating a Richmond green home shouldn’t be intimidating or overwhelming. It’s actually a great way to save money and invest in the planet. But remember, this is a very short list of all of your green home options. To find out more about going green or fantastic Richmond real estate service in general, be sure to contact your Richmond Real Estate Agent, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, today!

Richmond Real Estate Market Update

Richmond Real Estate Market Update

Average List Price	$198,482
Average SOLD Price	$189,801
Average Days on Market	70
Sold Price per Sqft	$95.63
Total Number Homes Sold	856

Areas: 10, 20, 30, 50, 60 – January 1, 2012 to June 21, 2012
*All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Compared to same time last year, 2011:

Average List Price	$207,619
Average SOLD Price	$195,830
Average Days on Market	75
Sold Price per Sqft	$95.10
Total Number of Homes Sold	859

Areas: 10, 20, 30, 50, 60 – January 1, 2011-June 21, 2011
*All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

What does this mean? Richmond home sellers are receiving approximately 95% of their list price, which is equal to where is was last year in the Richmond Real Estate market. Home values may have dropped slightly, but so have days on market.

Remember, real estate is local, down to not just the general area, but specific neighborhoods as well. This information does not include areas such as Henrico County, Chesterfield County, Goochland County, etc. If you would like to know the statistics for your area, I would be happy to provide you with that information! Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller WilliamsRealty Richmond West, and let me light your way to home sweet home!

Richmond Authors: Jennifer Erin Valent

Richmond Authors: Jennifer Erin Valent

About a year ago I was given a book called "Fireflies in December" written by local Richmond, Virginia author Jennifer Erin Valent. That book stayed in my husband's car for literally a year. Those that know me understand that I LOVE to read. However, I rarely get the luxury of time to sit down with a good book. So, about once a year on our vacation I will cram in as many books as I possibly can and then wait another 365 days until I can get my fix again!

My family recently took a trip the Outer Banks in North Carolina (let me brag a second...we made it in just FOUR hours to Corolla!) for an entire week and I had "Fireflies in December" in hand and ready to depart into a world far from my own. And I have to say, from the minute I read the first chapter, I was hooked!

The book is about a thirteen year old girl, Jessilyn, growing up in the South during a time that I can hardly fathom. In a time where color mattered and cowards hid beneath robes and hats. In a time when a young "not-yet-a-woman" should know her place and her boundaries. Although the book has some very heavy moments that will haunt you and leave you asking "what would I do?" it also is a stunning portrayal of that first moment when we think we may be falling in love.

When I got to the final chapter, in just two days mind you, I was left feeling a little sad. Sad that it had ended. It is rare when I find a book that leaves me wanting more, just as The Help did. I happened to Tweet about how much I enjoyed this book and I was thrilled when the author, Jennifer Valent, Tweeted back to let me know there was not only a sequel to "Fireflies in December" but that in fact it was a trilogy of sorts.As it turns out, Jennifer Erin Valent couldn't let go of Jessilyn anymore than I could. I was thrilled!

So today I made a pit stop to our local Henrico County Library in Glen Allen and checked out the second book in the series, "Cottonwood Whispers." This time, however, I have no intention of waiting a full year to read it. I can't. I have to know what happens next! So, in between house showings, PTA meetings, and kid wrangling, I will be carving out a small slice of time each day to get lost for just a little while. Who's with me?!

Ready to enter into the world of Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate? Then contact me, Shannon Milligan, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West and let me light your way to home sweet home!

Richmond Entertainment for Kids: Regal Theatre Movie Express

Richmond Entertainment for Kids: Summer Movie Express

Once again, Regal Cinemas, United Artists, and the Edwards Theatres are coming to the rescue of desperate moms, dads, and sitters alike with affordable movie entertainment with their Summer Movie Express series! Select G and PG movies will be offered every Tuesday and Wednesday, beginning June 19th and running through August 15th at 10am for just $1 per person! (A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Will Rogers Institute!) Local participating Richmond Theatre's include:

*Southpark Mall Stadium 20
*Virginia Center Stadium 20
*Commonwealth Center Stadium 20 & IM
*Westchester Commons Stadium 16
*Short Pump Stadium 14

Seating is limited, so be sure to get there early to secure your seat!

For more information, including movie titles, please visit: Regal Entertainment Group

Ready for your private screening of the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico, and let me light your way to home sweet home!

Richmond Real Estate: Ikea House?

Richmond Real Estate: Ikea House?

Hey Richmonders! Did you know that Ikea and Ideabox are teaming up together to sell "modular, pre-fab, fully furnished homes?" I sure as heck didn't until I read the June/July 2012 Commonwealth Magazine by the Virginia Association of Realtors.

According to the article, the Activ Home will be approximately 745sqft and will be going GREEN with Energy Star appliances, energy saving toilets, and the latest in modern materials. In addition, the home will boast Abstrakt cabinets, Tundra Maple flooring, and Pax wardrobes! Oh, and the price? Under $100K!

As mentioned in the story, the concept of the "catalog home" isn't new and one only needs to look back at the "Sears Modern Homes" as an example. And, it was even noted that Thomas Edison himself tried his hand in this market with "pour-in-place concrete homes." I know, I thought the same thing -"Huh!"

So Richmond, what do you think of this new Ikea Activ Home? Is this something you would be interested in? Personally, it wouldn't fit the needs of my family of four humans plus 2 dogs and one cat. However, I think the concept is pretty fascinating and I can't wait to see what happens in the future in terms of sales.

The Activ Home not for you but thinking of buying a home in Richmond or its surrounding areas? Contact me, Shannon Milligan, at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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 visit: Home Sweet Henrico

Richmond Real Estate: Why Own a Home?

Richmond Real Estate: Why Own a Home?

Everyone has different reasons on why they enter into home ownership - as varied as diamonds. So, when I read a recent National Housing Survey from Fannie Mae, I found it interesting all the different responses people gave as to why they wanted their slice of the American Dream. Below are the results of the survey published in the June/July 2012 issue of Commonwealth Magazine by the Virginia Association of Realtors:

#1. "It means having a good place to raise children and provide them with a good education." Over 80% said it was a major reason.

#2. "You have a physical structure where you and your family feel safe." 79%

#3. "It allows you to have more space for your family." 74%

#4. "It gives you control over what to do with your living space." 70%

#5. "Paying rent is not a good investment," 61%

Other factors, but not as much weight on importance:

#6. "Building up wealth that can be passed along to my family." 56%

#7. "It is a good retirement investment." 53%

#8. "It allows you to select a community where people share your values." 53%

Other notable statements: tax benefits, the ability to borrow against the home, and "it motivates you to become a better citizen."

This article had me reflect back on why my family wanted to enter into home ownership. The biggest reason for my husband? "Equity" (What else would you expect from a financial guy?!) The biggest reason for me? Comfort. Even Dorothy says it "there is no place like home" and she is right. For me, there is no place else on earth I feel more at ease and welcomed than in the serenity of the place where I build memories with loved ones.

Why have you bought a home? Why do you WANT to buy a home? It's a great question to ask yourself!

Thinking of buying a home in Richmond or the surrounding areas? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, today and let me light your way to home sweet home!

To begin your Richmond home search, please visit: Home Search Richmond VA

Richmond.com Uncorked 2012 Event

Richmond.com Uncorked 2012 Event

Who is ready to get Uncorked and sample some of the best wine and food the RVA has to offer? I know I am! The popular Richmond.com Uncorked event will be held on June 16th, 2012 from 11am until 5pm at the Virginia Historical Society in the stunning Museum District!

Tickets are available in advance for $12 and are $15 at the gate. Included in your admission is wine sampling and even a souvenir glass! Don't drink but don't want to miss out on the other fun like the live music and great local artists? Designated driver tickets will be sold at the gate for just $5!

So set aside a day for some fabulous fun, Richmond style!

For more information on the event, please visit: Richmond.com

Loving all that Richmond Virginia has to offer? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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 home search, please visit: Home Search Richmond VA

Ryan Homes Fox Creek in Chesterfield June Savings

Ryan Homes Fox Creek in Chesterfield June Savings

Wow! Have you heard about the tremendous savings Ryan Homes is offering in their beautiful Fox Creek community located in gorgeous Chesterfield? Right now Ryan Homes is offering over $30K in incentives, including:

*Morning Room

*Gourmet Island

*Granite Countertops & Sink

*Stainless Steel Appliances

*Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator

*Kitchen Recess Light Package

*Ceramic Tile Kitchen Wall Backsplash

*Hardwood Kitchen

*Hardwood Morning Room

*42” Andover Raised Panel Maple Cabinets

Truly an amazing bundle! This offer ends June 25^th, so contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, TODAY to take advantage of this fabulous deal!

Remember, if you would like the benefit of a Richmond Realtor representing you in a new construction transaction, you must contact me prior to visiting the new construction sales site.

*Prior sales are excluded. Prices, financing, and other offers subject to change without notice. Options may vary by model.

Richmond Real Estate: What Should I Bring to Closing?

Richmond Real Estate: What Should I Bring to Closing?

You've done the work. You've jumped through your hoops. The prize at the end of the race is in sight. So, what do you need to bring to close on your new, or old, Richmond home? According to Title Alliance of Richmond, you should bring the following documents with you for closing:

The Buyer:

*Photo identification for all parties involved in the transaction.

*A cashier's check or a certified check for any balances due at settlement. (Bank wiring arrangements can be made several days prior to settlement)

*Proof of fire insurance and policy payment receipt

The Seller:

*Photo identification for all parties involved in the transaction.

*A current mortgage payment statement

*All warranties on home equipment and appliances which will remain in the house

*Certifications of all inspections and requirements as stated in the Agreement of Sale

*Your keys, property identified

If you follow these simple instructions, you should have smooth sailing on closing on your Richmond home!

Ready to buy but haven't taken the first steps? Let's get started! Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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 visit: Home Search Richmond VA

Richmond's Broad Appetit 2012

Richmond's Broad Appetit 2012

It's that time of year again to let yourself go for one day and indulge in the culinary delights of some of Richmond's finest local restaurants! It all takes place on Sunday, June 3rd from 11am until 6pm at 100-300 E. Broad Street. Sampling is just $3 per plate and the event benefits our local Central Virginia Food Bank and Meals on Wheels.

In addition, you will be delighted to find a local farmers market, fabulous music, and special finds from many talented Richmond vendors!

For more information, such as who is going to be in attendance and other fun activities, please visit: Broad Appetit.

Want to expand your culinary skills with a new gourmet kitchen? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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, please visit: Richmond VA Homes for Sale.

Richmond Virginia Hottest Neighborhoods

Richmond Virginia Hottest Neighborhoods

So you are thinking about making the RVA your next home. Great choice! I am sure you have many questions, and one may be "what are some of the best neighborhoods in Richmond?" Well, according to the latest edition of Richmond Magazine, the following 12 communities are the Hottest Neighborhoods in Richmond and the surrounding areas:

1. Raintree, Henrico County
2. Brandermill, Chesterfield County
3. Woodland Heights, Richmond
4. Kings Charter, Hanover County
5. Museum District, Richmond
6. Twin Hickory, Henrico County
7. Founders Bridge, Chesterfield/Powhatan County
8. Hampton Gardens, Richmond
9. The Grove, Chesterfield County
10. Wellesley, Henrico County
11. Bryan Parkway, Henrico County
12. AshCreek, Hanover County

To find out more, including how these neighborhoods were selected, be sure to pick up your very own copy of the popular Richmond Magazine!

Didn't notice your community or the one you are considering on the list? No worries! There are many, MANY wonderful neighborhoods throughout our vast area and I would be happy to introduce you to some! Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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, please visit: Richmond Homes for Sale

Richmond Real Estate: Small Kitchen Remodels

Richmond Real Estate: Small Kitchen Remodels

You have probably heard this a thousand times from many Realtors: kitchens and baths sell homes. I know for my personal Richmond residence, the kitchen is the heart of our home. As a matter of fact, everytime we entertain not many venture past our kitchen!

If you are thinking about selling your Richmond home and your kitchen needs a little face lift, here are five low-cost make-overs buyers will eat-up according to Realtor Magazine:

1. Hardware: Switching out those old brass knobs or handles for something more modern can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your home without making your wallet too light.

2. Faucets: Changing out an outdated faucet can also give your home an instant feeling of being updated.

3. Lighting: Under cabinet lighting can make your kitchen look more dramatic and showcase special features without costing a fortune.

4. Organization: Make use of every inch of space and show buyers how the kitchen really functions. Think about adding baskets in the pantry, hanging a pot rack from the ceiling, or even simple drawer organizers.

5. Countertops: We all know that granite is all the rage, but if that is not in your budget the good news is you can freshen up your counters with beautiful laminate countertops that look very much like granite without the added cost.

With these few simple, low-cost tips, you will be putting your best foot forward when listing your home on the Richmond real estate market!

Ready to put your home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, today and let's get started!

Return on Investment for Remodeling Projects

Return on Investment for Remodeling Projects

In the new March/April edition of Realtor Magazine, the cost vs value for remodeling projects was featured and I believe it offers great insight for Richmond home owners thinking about tackling a new project. Below is what you may expect as your return on investment on certain renovations:

Project	Cost	Resale Value	% of Cost Recouped
Siding Replacement (Upscale, fiber-cement)	$13,461	$10,493	78%
Entry Door Replacement (Mid-Range, steel)	$1,238	$903	73%
Attic Bedroom Addition (Mid-Range)	$50,148	$36,346	72.5%
Kitchen: Minor Remodel	$19,588	$14,120	72.1%
Garage Door Replacement (Mid-Range)	$1,512	$1,087	71.9%
Garage Door Replacement (Upscale)	$2,994	$2,129	71.1%

For more information on other projects and to obtain a PDF for specific real estate markets, please visit: www.costvsvalue.com

Done the work and now ready to put your home in the Henrico County Real Estate or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, today!

Richmond Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

Richmond Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

The National Association of Letter Carriers “Stamp Out Hunger” is just around the corner, so get to collecting those non-perishable food items and have them placed by your mailbox on Saturday, May 12^th! This is the perfect time to clean out that pantry and make a huge difference in a fellow Richmonders life!

Home Sweet Henrico is proud to be participating in this event and will have our donation our bright and early!

If you find you need more space while cleaning out that pantry, contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, 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, please visit: Richmond Virginia Homes for Sale

On Any Given Richmond Day

On Any Given Richmond Day

While taking a stroll through the cobble stone road of Shockoe Slip in Richmondlast week, my family and I came upon two of our finest protecting our streets and giving us spectators a lovely sight to see with the gorgeous horses they were utilizing as transportation. Not only were the officers polite and approachable, they even gave us an opportunity to get up close and personal with their beautiful partners in crime!

If you have never ventured down to this area of Richmond, you surely are missing out! With summer just around the corner, I would definitely put this on your list of things to do!

Thinking of making Richmondhome? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West 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, please visit: HomeSearchRichmondVA

Richmond Restaurant Week – It’s BACK!

Richmond Restaurant Week – It’s BACK!

The event all Richmond foodies look for is back! Richmond Restaurant Week will take place Monday, April 23^rd and will run through Sunday, April 29^th. If you have been wanting to sink your teeth into some of the RVA’s finest food, then here is you chance at a great price! For $25.12 per person with $2.12 going to Feed More, Richmond’s local food bank, you can try out that place you have had your eye on!

Below are the participants for Richmond Restaurant Week:

3 Monkey’s Bar & Grill: 804-204-2525

Acacia Mid-Town: 804-562-0138

Amici Ristorante: 804-353-4700

Amour Wine Bistro: 804-353-4020

Amuse Restaurant: 804-340-1580

Avenue 805: 804-353-2505

Aziza’s on Main: 804-344-1523

Bacchus: 804-355-9919

Bistro 27: 804-780-0086

Bistro Bobette: 804-225-9116

Bonvenu: 804-342-1003

Charles City Tavern: 804-829-5004

Chez Foushee: 804-648-3225

Cous Cous: 804-358-0868

deLux: 804-353-2424

The Dining Room at the Berkley Hotel: 804-225-5105

Europa Italian Cafe & Tapas Bar: 804-643-0911

The Hard Shell: 804-643-2333

The Hard Shell at Bellgrade: 804-464-1476

Hanover Tavern: 804-537-5050

Helen’s: 804-358-4370

Hill Cafe: 804-648-0360

Hondos: 804-968-4323

Julep’s New Southern Cuisine: 804-377-3968

La Grotta: 804-644-2466

Lehja: 804-364-1111

Lulu’s Restaurant: 804-343-9771

Made in Asia: 804-739-8160

Mezzanine: 804-353-2186

Millie’s Diner: 804-643-5512

Rowlands Fine Dining: 804-257-9885

Sam Miller’s: 804-644-5465

Secco Wine Bar: 804-353-0670

Six Burner: 804-353-4060

Stronghill Dining Company: 804-359-0202

Tastebuds American Bistro: 804-261-6544

Tarrants Cafe: 804-225-0035

Tobacco Company: 804-782-9555

Water Grill: 804-353-3411

Zeus Gallery Cafe: 804-359-3219

Ready for a taste of the Henrico County Real Estate market or surrounding Richmond Real Estate market? Contact me, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, and let me light your way to home sweet home!

To begin your Richmond Home Search, please visit: HomeSearchRichmondVA