Real Estate Showcase - September 2023

Real Estate

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Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Two Local Photographers Found Success In Focusing On Real Estate

By HARLEIGH CUPP Daily News-Record

It’s been said time and time again that a picture’s worth a thousand words, and according to two local photographers, that statement couldn’t ring more true when talking about buying and selling real estate.

Bessie Black Photography and Swartz Company — owned by Ashley and Ryan Swartz — have been part of the professional real estate photography game since the game made its way to the Shenandoah Valley nearly 15 years ago. While each continue to be leaders in the industry today, neither of them started out by shooting buildings or properties at all.

Rockingham County native Bessie Black remembered taking her first interest in photography while taking a

yearbook class her senior year of high school. She took a few classes at Blue Ridge Community College, but she wanted more and decided to switch gears toward earning an associates degree from a photography school.

“At that point,” Black said, “I was already photographing a lot but wanted to go for me, so I would be more confident in myself and skills. This was before the internet was full of any information you could want.” Black graduated from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale in Florida and in 2000, she opened her own small business as a portrait and wedding photographer.

A few years later, Ryan — who also has roots in Rockingham County — and Ashley Swartz had a problem. The husband and wife team needed to get high quality images to market the furniture being made by their family business

Virginia Craftsman, but sourcing local photographers at the time was both difficult and costly. Learning and practicing the photography skills themselves was the most logical solution.

In an effort to make their investment pay off, Ryan and Ashley Swartz began dabbling in the portrait and wedding

full

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1241 Victorian Village Dr., Harrisonburg

Beacon Hill Subdivision - 3 bedroom, 3 ½ Bath Townhouse with

finished basement. Upstairs has 2 master suites. Hardwood floors on main, nice level backyard. $280,000 #639709

Harper St., Weyers Cave 4/5 bedroom, 3 full bath home in Harshbarger Subdivision. 2,170 sq. ft plus attached garage. Large sunroom & spacious back yard. $329,900 #645808

67 Dahlia Road, Ruckersville Lakefront, just renovated in Twin Lakes Subdivision, remodeled with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, full basement. $330,000 #645097

3 Chestnut Court, Palmyra Charming two story in beautiful Lake Monticello Subdivision. Walking distance to lake and beach. 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. $329,999 #642917

225 Maple Ave., Timberville 3 bedrooms, full, partially finished basement. Fenced backyard, kitchen and bath remodeled in last few years. Hardwood, pellet stove, newer roof. $249,000 #645473

37 Jefferson Street, Verona 3 bedroom, 1 ½ bath 2 story renovated home. Great location just minutes from shopping and I-81. Spacious backyard. $230,000 #645253

279 Whetstone Draft Rd, Mt Solon 15 Acres of privacy and space for family to work and play. Mostly open land, wet weather spring. 2 Story farmhouse, several outbuildings. $420,000 #643681

Harleigh Cupp / DN-R

Bessie Black and Ashley Swartz stand in front of a client’s historic fixer-upper. See

CLUES DOWN

14. Witness

15.

17.

19.

20.

CLUES ACROSS

1. Outsourcing (abbr.)

4. Post

8. German city on edge of Black Forest

10. “__, but goodie”

11. Spiced stew

12. Passionately

13. Monetary units

15. Group of living organisms

16. Organic compound derived from ammonia

17. High honors

18. 5-year-olds’ classes

21. Swiss river

22. Old woman

23. Cash machine

24. A way to soak

25. Hair product

26. Deride

27. “The Blonde Bombshell”

34. Cause to become insane

35. Bluish greens

36. Supported with money

37. Type of equation

38. Court officials

39. Indian god

40. Rids

41. Leak slowly through

42. Units of ionizing radiation

43. Midway between south and southeast

25.

26.

27.

1. Native of Slovakia

2. Deli meat

3. Fibrous substance in fungi

4. Cutting

5. Vedder and Van Halen

6. Horror comic novelist

7. Rulers of Tunis

9. Shaped like a circle

10. Make a pig of oneself

12. Aphorism

Single Lens Reflex

Freshwater North American fish

Nautical ropes

Leg (slang)

23. Pokes holes in

24. Moved quickly on foot

Fix-it shops

Type of bread

Repaired

photography business too. They founded Swartz Company in 2008 as an architectural and commercial photography firm when the real estate photography market first opened and it wasn’t long before they nailed down a contract with Kline May Realty.

“Initially,” Ashley Swartz remarked, “one of the coolest things we learned and got to see was the way so many different people lived. It was like getting to travel without having to travel.”

As real estate photography became more popular across the Shenandoah Valley, the Swartz’s referred their good friend — Bessie Black Photography — into the business too, who was excited to jump at the amazing opportunity.

Black started photographing houses in the spring of 2013 for the Trobaugh Group and can still picture that first property on Portland Drive in Harrisonburg in the back of her mind.While she hasn’t kept a tally of the number of houses shot, Black estimates it to be well over 500 since she continues to photograph weddings, families and other portraits.

One of Black’s favorite proper-

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

ties to shoot, however, was a “homey” multi-million dollar construction in Penn Laird.

According to Black, “having professional photos for real estate listings these days is a pretty mandatory expectation. The photos are what is used to first introduce the home — either through web media or printed real estate books. Professional photography provides an accurate representation of the home for buyers to view prior to going in person to see the home and is a very important first impression.”

“Early in real estate photography — when it wasn’t really a professional norm in the Valley to have a professional photographer, people didn’t really know how to prepare their clients so we would see a lot of crazy stuff,” Ashley Swartz said.

Swartz Company shoots nearly 5,000

There is nothing wrong with a bit of selfindulgence, Aries. But you do not want to go overboard with your treats and other musthaves. Moderation is key in everything.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

You have a no-nonsense bearing that immediately has people drawing close to you and trusting you, Taurus. Put that out in full force as you try to win favor on the job this week.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, don’t let your quest for excitement pull you in too many different directions right now. You need to stick to one plan for a certain amount of time and see things through.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Everyone wants a piece of you right now, Cancer. It is equally flattering and exhausting. You’ll have to be choosy regarding where and with whom to dedicate your time.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Listen to the messages swirling around in your head right now, Leo. Your intuition has been on target so there is no reason to doubt yourself now. Keep moving forward.

properties each year — now working with a team of eight photographers — and Ashley Swartz added some insight into how the real estate photography industry has changed over time, saying that videography and drone footage became a staple rather than a luxury in 2020 when more clients were viewing houses and farms from home.

The need for short-term rental imagery has exploded in the Valley in recent years as well and Swartz Company transitioned from traveling throughout North Carolina shooting AirBnb listings to managing many of the vacation spots locally.

Black also provided a sneak peek into what her typical workflow as a real estate photographer looks like.

“When photographing a home,” Black explained, “it starts with the agents.”

HOROSCOPES

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, is a particular relationship getting too intense for you? It might be the time to ease up a bit and take a step back. Distance could provide the clarity you need.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you do not need to struggle if you simply call in a few favors. Reach out to your network of people and figure out how you can make things work.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, do not chase people down, simply wait for them to come to you with your natural magnetism. You don’t want to exert energy this week unnecessarily.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, rather than showing people all of your cards, hold some information close to the vest and maintain a bit of mystery. Others likely will be intrigued.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you may find that things are very profitable for you this week. If you are an entrepreneur, business will be solid. If you perhaps sell on the side, money will flow.

It’s the real estate agents who prepare homeowners with how to present the home in the best way by tidying up and removing distractions. When Black arrives on the scene, they do a quick scan of the house together to make sure it is ready for photos.

“I usually start with the exterior of the home,” Black said. “It’s important to get the best light and view of the front of the home and any scenic views since the front of the home is typically used as the first photo on the listing. After completion of photographing the interiors and exteriors, I will edit the images to straighten and do color correcting to all of the final digital photographs I deliver. Typical delivery of images is by the end of the next business day. The images are delivered in an online gallery that is easy and functional for the agents to view, share and download to [their device] then load to their online listings.”

To connect with Bessie Black Photography or Swartz Company, find them online at bessieblack.com and www. swartz.company.

Contact Harleigh Cupp at 540-5746279 or hcupp@dnronline.com

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, for quite some time you have been focusing on everyone but yourself. You have to change your ways if you can get the rest and healing that you need right now.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

There is no doubt that you’ve earned a few commendations, Pisces. But this week you need to accept congratulations without being boastful. Exhibit both humility and pride.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

SEPT. 24 Ben Platt, Actor (30)

SEPT. 25 Mark Hamill, Actor (72)

SEPT. 26 Serena Williams, Athlete (42)

SEPT. 27 Jenna Ortega, Actress (21)

SEPT. 28 Hilary Duff, Actress (36)

SEPT. 29 Kevin Durant, Athlete (35)

SEPT. 30 Ezra Miller, Actor (31)

Initially, one of the coolest things we learned and got to see was the way so many different people lived. It was like getting to travel without having to travel.

n Ashley Swartz, Swartz Company

5BR, 4BA, full studio apt., almost 5 acres. Views! $689,900 MLS#644896

Laurinda Peters & Associates/ Laurinda Peters 540-578-3476

Watch our Real Estate Showcase every Sunday morning at 7:30AM on WHSV!

Information Herein Deemed Reliable but not Guaranteed

3BR, 2BA, full part. finished basement, multiple outbuildings/garages. 2.2 acres.

$419,900 MLS#643489

Doughty & Company/Lana Doughty 540-578-1851

3BR, 2BA, amazing views! Open floor plan, 3-car oversized garage, 4 acres.

$599,900 MLS#645385

Doughty & Company/Lana Doughty 540-578-1851

New construction! 4BR, 2.5BA, LVP flooring, open floor plan.

$429,000 MLS#645068

Julie Katykhin 916-712-5529

3BR, 2.5BA, extensive updates. Large back deck & invisible fencing.

$412,000 MLS#645496

Laurinda Peters & Associates/ Laurinda Peters 540-578-3476

New construction! 3BR, 2BA, open concept, LVP floors, views!

$355,000 MLS#645249

Doughty & Company/Lana Doughty 540-578-1851

UNDERCONTRACT

Endless possibilities! Investors, entrepreneurs, home buyers, or anyone with creativity for business. 3.58 total acres. $235,000 MLS#645471

Susan Conrad Melendez 540-560-4935

Duplex style townhome. 2 ensuite bed/baths. Half bath serves the main living area. Great Location!

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Laurinda Peters & Associates/Laurinda 540-578-3476

2266 Eversole Road, Rockingham

4185 Romney Court, Rockingham

5524 Cross Keys Rd., Mt. Crawford

7543 River Hill Ln., Weyers Cave

102 Melissa Court, Bridgewater

32 Overlook Lane, Mt. Sidney

509 Pointe Drive, Harrisonburg

12931 Blue Gray Trail, Brandywine

Tiffany Windows At Front Royal Church Still Sparkle More Than 100 Years Later

By ASHLEY MILLER For The Daily News-Record

FRONT ROYAL — As sunlight passes through the sanctuary windows of Front Royal United Methodist Church on Sunday mornings, greeting the congregation are the rich hues of more than 45 Louis Comfort Tiffany stained-glass windows, each one telling a story of faith and fellowship.

Sitting in the choir for most of her life, Billie Ruth Bowen, 98, had the perfect view of the stained-glass window depicting Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. The window, which faces south, shows Jesus praying while storm clouds gather in the distance and his disciples sleep. A bright light beams down from the heavens, illuminating Jesus.

“I often tried to feel how He might have felt, but I couldn’t,” Bowen said. “So, instead, I studied the window — its details, its story.”

Teri Moore recalled the first time she saw the windows. She was 6 years old.

“Maybe it was because I was 6 and small, but they seemed so large and beautiful to me,” Moore recalled.

The Methodist Church, sometimes known as the “big stone church” that sits on the corner of Main Street and Royal Avenue, has been the heart of Front Royal for 114 years. It opened for services on May 23, 1909, after the building cornerstone was laid in August 1905.

“When this church was built and these beautiful windows put in, I don’t think anyone would have ever guessed the money it would take to keep it up,” Moore said. “They built the church for $25,000, which was a lot of money at the time, took out a mortgage and paid it back in 10 years. When you look at some of the old deposit slips, and you see that people gave 17 cents, 21 cents or 22 cents — it’s just remarkable.”

The history of stained glass or decorative glass dates back to the Egyptians, when colorful glass was used to decorate small objects. In Europe, stained glass dates back to the 7th century and was used primarily in churches and monasteries.

Tiffany, an American artist, created his windows during an era when artists were taking their artistic passions to new heights. At the time, Tiffany created forms for molding thick rippled glass using power-

FAIR-HOUSING NOTICE

We are pledged to the le�er and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support adver�sing and marke�ng programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, na�onal origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

All real estate adver�sed herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to adver�se any preference, limita�on or discrimina�on because of race, color, religion, na�onal origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap, or inten�on to make any such reference, limita�on or discrimina�on.’ This newspaper will not knowingly accept adver�sing for real estate that violated the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings adver�sed in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.For the hearing-impaired, call (804) 367-9753.

E-mail fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov.

Web site: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

ful pastel colors. Unconcerned about profit, Tiffany simply wanted to create glass masterpieces, which he achieved internationally, both in churches and in homes.

“Stained glass is an old art form,” Moore said. “It started back before literacy was the norm. An artisan would craft a window that would tell a story of the Bible, usually a well-known story and would try to give that as a picture.”

According to a group of congregants who researched the windows for the Garden Club Tour, the stained glass takes advantage of God’s light to add brilliance to the storyteller’s art.

Noting the wide use of symbolism used throughout the windows, Moore explained that the use of certain colors such as blue and white, as well as the number three played an important role in sharing the Christian message.

The window facing Royal Avenue is one that Eleanor Chadwell has spent quite some time studying, since she joined the congregation more than 57 years ago.

“You see the way he’s protecting the small [lamb] that’s lost his way,” she said. “He will carry us if we need him. And the others in the flock — they’re following close by.”

When viewing each window, it’s important to note that each is a stand-alone story rather than a series, Moore said.

The Madonna and Child window tells the story of the bond shared between mother and son, while clouds gather, a reminder of Jesus’ fate. In the archive room, a window with a lily symbolizes purity, while in the front of the sanctuary, the books in the Christ Child in the Temple window

suggest a scribe, teacher or founder of a religious order.

Evelyn Ricci, who joined the church in 1975, is often found admiring her favorite window in the nursery.

“This is art,” she said pointing at the beehive on the window. “These windows are art and they tell a story. When you go to Europe, that’s what you see — true stainedglass windows, like ours.”

The first 100 years of the church’s history resulted in wear and tear on the windows. Bowen said that there was broken glass, fractured lead lines and a loss of glazing, which gave the windows their sheen.

To last another 100 years, a church committee launched a restoration and preservation project in 2010. It was expensive, costing roughly $250,000. Sufficient funds were raised in three years, allowing the project to be completed by 2013. Each window was meticulously restored to its former glory by Stained Glass by Shenandoah to withstand another 10 or more decades.

Bowen noted the painstaking difficulty the project took as each window had to be disassembled piece-by-piece, cleared, repaired and then put back together, all while maintaining the integrity of each story told.

Forty-eight stained-glass windows shine down on congregants, although one is not like the others. A recent modern-day addition was added by a former minister, the Rev. Gary Heaton, who designed the colorful window that Moore said is her favorite among the collection.

“It’s stepping out of a boat, which is a euphemism that we use so often,” she said. “Sometimes you just have to step out of the boat and have faith.”

Rich Cooley / For The DN-R

Billie Ruth Bowen, 97, stands inside the sanctuary of Front Royal United Methodist Church surrounded by the Tiffany stained-glass windows.

SOLD

3375 Wellsleigh Place, Rockingham

An intrinsic commitment to detail has created this exquisite home! On over 2 tranquil acres sited away from the street for privacy, this offering will please the most discerning buyer. 7 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths. MLS #618993 $1,075,000

Mirandy Court, Bridgewater

This incredibly spacious, all-brick, 2-story home features a comfortable layout, cozy family room with a fireplace, bedrooms that are generous in size and a relaxing backyard that offers serenity and privacy. 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath. MLS# 643893 $529,000

Niswander Lane, Rockingham

INTRIGING CREATIVE CONCEPT post and beam contemporary. This custom built one owner home is absolutely one of a kind! 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths. MLS# 644225 $795,000

Wexford Street, Staunton

Welcome to this inviting and spacious home in Winnbrook Subdivision! This meticulously cared-for residence offers the ideal blend of convenience and tranquility.4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath. MLS#645542 $475,000

UNDER CONTRACT

3491 Seneca Road, Rockingham

Welcome to your dream home in the serene Lakewood Subdivision! This exquisite custom-built brick ranch offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. 7 bedrooms, 4 full baths. MLS#645099 $699,000

548 E. Wolfe Street, Harrisonburg

STEP BACK IN TIME! Welcome to this 1920’s charming Bungalow conveniently located in the city of Harrisonburg. This eclectically decorated gem boasts its own unique character, making it a one-of-a-kind home. 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths. MLS#: 644135 $353,900

556 E Wolfe Street, Harrisonburg

This 1938 brick home has stood the test of time, still attractive, still inviting, it has most recently been a rental property.4 bedrooms, 2 full baths. MLS# 645739 $310,000.

1786 Fadley Road, Weyers Cave

Welcome to this one owner, absolutely stunning custom built home, situated on 1.73 acres that offers the ultimate level of comfort and privacy! 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath. MLS# 643462 $695,000

UNDER CONTRACT SOLD

Central Avenue, Harrisonburg

SPACIOUS, CONVENIENT AND BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED! This one has been professionally cleaned and ready for you to move in. 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths. MLS#: 644823 $424,900

SOLD

Lot 6 Quicks Mill Rd, Verona

Stunning building lot, easy access to Staunton, and Interstate 81. Gently rolling topography, call your agent for more details. 2.29 acres MLS# 641355 $95,000.

3768 Boundary Run Road, Gum Spring

This beautiful home sits on a 2.08 acre partially wooded lot on a cul-desac in Boundary Run subdivision. As you enter the home, light fills the open floor plan making it the perfect space to entertain guests. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. MLS#635667 $465,000

0 Tanners Court, Rockingham

Come build at Meadowbrook--on this beautiful lot with mountain views!!! Build your dream house only minutes from the city, & get that country feel but have easy access to interstate 81 and Harrisonburg. 0.68 acres. MLS #639285 $79,000

5677

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1706

2 Acres Charlottesville

Eastern Rockingham Massanutten

Looking for a little privacy? Take a look at this update ranch home on 2 acres. Beautiful mountain views, borders the Elementary school, nice location. Offering 3-bedrooms 2 baths, wonderful yard with mature trees, offered $265,900. Call or text 540-282-1589 Molly Billhimer, agent related to owner. Online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Affordable, beautiful townhome in Stonehenge. Featuring 3 bedrooms 2 baths, great location off of Rio Road. Large living room, cathedral ceilings, master suite on the first floor. Offered $285,000 Call or text Nick Whitelock at 540-383-9601. Online www. MassanuttenRealty.com

Perfect spot to call home! Take a look at this 3-bedroom 1 bath home on 1.13 acres! Clean and move in ready, freshly painted, large rooms. Unfinished basement ready to grow with you. $289,900. Call or text Dana Roach at 540-742-9581 online www. MassanuttenRealty.com

Your own treehouse in the mountains! Will make a wonderful primary home, great second home, vacation rental investment opportunity. Sleek modernized updated “cabin” stone throw to the Tubing Park and slopes, offering you the opportunity to live like you are on vacation 365 days a year. 2-bedrooms 2 baths, offered $339,000 Call or text Jeff Konstant. Online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Massanutten Hole #3 GrottoesMassanutten Village McGaheysville

Incredible opportunity to own Massanutten classic featured on the Mountain Greens Post card! Rustic design with vaulted ceilings, 4-bedrooms 3 baths, Greenview Hills location. Don’t miss the screened porch, once visited hard to leave! $369,900. Call or text Nick Whitelock at 540-383-9601. Online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Welcome home! Wonderful in-ground swimming pool, well maintained brick split level surrounded by mature trees and beautiful landscaping. Offering 3-bedrooms 2.5 baths, wonderful design and a great spot “to work from home”! Offered $399,000. Call or text Nick Whitelock at 540-383-9601 to view online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Take a look at this mountain contemporary featuring vaulted ceilings and a wonderful back porch. 3-bedrooms 2-baths, spacious attached 2-car carport. Will make a wonderful 1st, 2nd or vacation getaway for you.$399,000. Call or text Nick Whitelock 540-383-9601 or Chris 540-820-4492 online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Valley View says it all! Welcome home to your renovated farmhome on over 2 acres. Great location in McGaheysville, lots of updates including a new propane furnace and central air. Room for your animals and gardens, looking for someone who doesn’t want to be in a cookie cutter subdivision! $409,900. Call or text Nick Whitelock 540-383-9601. Online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Massanutten Village Massanutten VillageMassanutten Village Massanutten Village

Updated move in ready 3-bedroom 3 bath home featuring 2 master suites, all you need on one level with possible in law quarters on the lower level. Currently a vacation rental home, would make a wonderful primary residence too! $599,000. Call or text Gary Mitchell. Online www.MassanuttenRealty. com

Rustic Elegance in Greenview Hills, this 4-bedrom 3 bath beauty is ready for a new owner. Currently a vacation rental with a strong vacation rental history, would make a wonderful full time home too! Offered $625,000. Call or text Jeff Konstant. Online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Retro Classic Massanutten beauty! Fabulous location in Village Woods offering a view of the ski slopes, outwards through the kettle to the Blue Ridge. 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, room for additional bedrooms if needed! Opportunity to own a classic design, perfect spot to live, vacation or use as an rental investment. $479,900. Call or text Nick Whitelock 540-3839601 online www.MassanuttenRealty.com

Stones throw from the ski slopes, winter views and easy access! Take a look at this updated 5-bedroom 2 bath mountain home. Will make a great 1st, 2nd or vacation rental investment for you. $539,900. Call or text Ethan Smith 540-810-1131