Haymarket Homeowner Spring 2016

Im pr H N o o Di vem me EW! re e ow cto nt n ry & er 20 Se 16 rvi ce

UPSCALE LIVING IN HAYMARKET & GAINESVILLE

Haymarket Homeowner HaymarketHomeowner.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

g Market Watch: Year-to-Date Trends

Haymarket Area Featured Properties Farm to Table: Haymarket Area Farmers Markets Tips & Advice: Time to Mulch Community Spotlight: Gainesville Student to Bike Across the Country Ask Bryan: Buying a Second Home in Virginia and Beyond Market Watch: February 2016 Published by

BRYAN GARCIA

"Haymarket Real Estate Guy" Associate Broker

EXIT Heritage Realty Haymarket, VA www.EXITgarcia.com 703-517-2574

Real Estate & Community News from Bryan Garcia, "Haymarket Real Estate Guy" 703-517-2574

Spring 2016

Election Year and the Real Estate Market

D

oes anyone remember the last few months of 1999? Despite a healthy economy at the time, there was that fear of the “Y2K Bug” that put many consumers on pause with major decisions and spending until after the new year. Then the New Year's Eve ball dropped, nothing happened and life resumed.

Some may wonder, with the uncertainty of a political election year, if the housing market—home prices and home sales—is affected. I did some research into the past four election cycles and concluded that there is no solid evidence to suggest that there is any direct correlation.

I looked at patterns for home prices and sales surrounding 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012 in the Mid-Atlantic region (see charts below). I compared data for the year before, the year of and the year after an election. The numbers are all over the place but there is one semi-consistent pattern. With the exception

Homes Sold

of 2008/2009, there is generally an improvement in both the election year and the year after the election over that of the prior year.

Even though this is good news, I still believe it is not enough data to connect the two entirely. There are so many factors that contribute to the real estate market—interest rates, economic conditions, supply and demand, mortgage accessibility, location, etc. To look at just home prices and sales in one region would be an inaccurate assessment—especially considering that there was a housing boom, a recession and recovery during these years. Furthermore, prices and activity generally increase year to year anyway.

The best way to look at the “health” of a real estate market is to look at economic confidence. In a robust economy, people tend to be optimistic, which helps consumer confidence and spending. In an economy characterized by high unemployment and stagnant wages, confidence declines.

(Continued on next page.)

Median Sold Price

(Change from Previous Year)

(Change from Previous Year)

Election Year

Year After

Election Year

Year After

2000 2004 2008 2012

2001 2005 2009 2013

2000 2004 2008 2012

2001 2005 2009 2013

+6.6% +10.9% -12.8% +7.3%

FEATURED HOMES

+12.2% +.22% +9.9% +11.2%

COMMUNITY

+2.6% +21.7% -14.4% +8.1%

+9.5% +22.3% -10.7% +7.2%

TIPS & ADVICE

g

1

Average Days on the Market in Haymarket increased by

+23.6%

in 2016 so far compared to January and February 2015.

It rose from 89 to 110 days.

1

House Hunters Haymarket

MARKET WATCH

Market Watch

W

e only have two months of the year so far to look at—January and February—but things seem to be off to a good start! I mentioned in my cover story that the election year probably doesn't have any affect on the real estate market, but if there is any connection, so far it's positive.

Home Sales of detached homes in both Haymarket and Gainesville increased

Sold Homes Haymarket Gainesville

If you are looking to buy a home in a specific neighborhood or school district visit www.EXITGarcia.com and set your search criteria in the filters on the left.

Haymarket Gainesville

g

over this time last year, as did the Average Sold Price. Note that Days on the Market have also increased. I have been saying this for a while ... homes ARE selling, at good prices, they are just taking longer.

One other point to mention is that New Listings are mostly down so far this year. If that is a sign of hesitation in an election year, it may be a good for sellers as there may be less competition.

YEAR TO DATE - JANUARY & FEBRUARY (single-family, detached homes only)

Did you know that you can search all the MLS listings for homes for sale in Northern Virginia by SUBDIVISION or HIGH SCHOOL?

Market Watch Source: RBI Real Estate Business Intelligence

HaymarketHomeowner.com

2016 32 40

2015 19 33

Difference +68.4% +21.2%

$549,354 $507,568

2015 $522,827 $493,517

Difference +5.07% +2.85%

2016 126 144

2015 124 155

Difference +1.6% -7.1%

2016 110 82

2015 89 67

Difference +23.6% +22.3%

Average Sold Price 2016

New Listings (all home types) Haymarket Gainesville

Days on the Market (all home types) Haymarket Gainesville

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Election Year (continued from page 1) In real estate, this can vary from region to region. We often hear stories about the “hottest real estate markets” in the country. Well, those areas are supported by new job creation and higher wages.

The unemployment rate in Prince William County (as of December, 2015) is 3.5%. That’s a drop from 4.2% in 2014 and 4.8% in 2013 and lower than the national average. Wages in our local counties are also above the national average. The health of our local economy is good,

and the real estate market is predicted to improve this year.

Having said that, there are legislative policies that can affect the housing market directly. Policies related to regulation and mortgage accessibility, labor costs for new construction (immigration debate), and tax incentives to name a few.

The bottom line: fear of the unknown is a legitimate factor, but the actual election year is more about campaigns and promises than it is actual policy and real change.

HAYMARKET AREA HOMES FOR SALE

Bryan Garcia, EXIT Heritage Realty | 703-517-2574

FEATURED PROPERTIES

8116 Willingboro Court Gainesville, VA

2803 Lookout Road Haymarket, VA

6720 Jefferson Street Haymarket, VA

4 Bed, 2.5 Baths | .20 Acres | 3,186 SF

3 Bed, 3 Full Baths | 5+ Acres | 2,898 SF

3 Bed, 2 Full Baths | .63 Acres | 2,240 SF

Charming Colonial in gated Lake Manassas on premium, cul-de-sac lot that backs to woods & golf course * Meticulously maintained by original owner * Semi-custom Winchester model with many upgrades * Lots of hardwoods * Family room with custom-built stone fireplace * Private study * Master suite with huge walk-in closet * Full, walk-up basement ready to finish.

Custom-built, cedar home on Bull Run Mountain with spectacular views * 3 finished levels * 2 story family room with wood-burning, stone fireplace and wall of windows * Kitchen with granite counters and lots of storage * Bedroom and bath on each level * Formal dining room and living room * Huge master suite with separate sitting room.

Adorable farmhouse in downtown Haymarket is loaded with charm & character * Huge detached garage with recreation room above * Lovingly maintained by owner * Finished hardwoods * New carpet on 2nd floor * Fresh paint throughout * Darling retro kitchen & vintage tile bathrooms * Sunny family room with wood-burning fireplace * New windows.

Text to: 85377 Message: M481617

Text to: 85377 Message: M542055

$574,900

Text to: 85377 Message: M542056

$449,900

R DE ACT N U NTR CO

R DE ACT UNNTR CO

$475,000

ST JU OLD S

208 River Oak Drive Bentonville, VA

14983 Keavy Place Haymarket, VA

194 Moonstone Drive Warrenton, VA

4 Bed, 2.5 Baths | 4.17 Acres | 2,253 SF

4 Bed, 2.5 Baths | .23 Acres | 2,209 SF

4 Bed, 3.5 Baths | 3,400 SF

Custom-built mountain retreat with amazing views of mountains and river is ideal year-round or second/vacation home * Huge wraparound screened-in porch * Exceptional details throughout * Kitchen with granite & stainless * 2 gas stoves * Main level master suite & laundry * Large shed with electricity * Gated community near boating & hiking.

Very well-maintained Colonial on cul-de-sac lot near downtown Haymarket * Large yard that backs to wooded area * Rich cherry hardwood floors on entire main level * Gourmet kitchen with cherry cabinets, stainless appliances, granite and double oven * Master suite with his and her walk-in closets * Large, unfinished walk-up basement plumbed for bath.

Spacious, 3 finished level townhouse near downtown Warrenton * Large, combined living and dining room with central gas fireplace and cathedral ceilings * Nice, eatin kitchen with granite countertops and lots of storage * Main level master suite * Large loft and extra craft room or study * Huge, finished walk-out recreation room with full bedroom and full bath.

Text to: 85377 Message: M542055

Text to: 85377 Message: M549364

(Selling Price)

$379,000

$423,000

$356,000

COMMUNITY

HaymarketHomeowner.com

Back by popular demand

is our list of 2016 Haymarket Area Farmers Markets. Save this guide to remind you to visit one of these markets to not only support the local economy and small businesses, but to bring fresh, organic ingredients to your table.

You may not realize it, but you’ll find much more than vegetables and fruits at these markets; there are homemade breads and pastries, meats, eggs, flowers, honey, herbs and other plants. In the Haymarket area, there are several markets open throughout the week—Tuesday through Sunday—so there’s no excuse not to stop by and pick up some home-grown and home-made goods.

Haymarket Thursday Afternoon Market The Farm at Broad Run 16015 John Marshall Hwy, Broad Run Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

May 5th to October 27th The Haymarket Thursday Afternoon Market will be returning for it's second year to The Farm at Broad Run, just two

Haymarket Farmers Market 14600 Washington Street, Haymarket Front of the QBE Building Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

End of April through October

TO

miles west of Haymarket on Route 55. In addition to the fresh, local produce, crafts, and products, the market boasts two prepared food vendors. The vendors are Dancing Cow, who raises her own pork and grills the meat right in front of you for her delicious pork sandwiches, and Black Fig Pizza who makes gourmet pizzas on site in their brick oven, sourcing what they can locally. Enjoy your food at the beautiful pavilion on the grounds.

Participate in various activities throughout the season which include kids' scavenger hunts, live music and more.

There is a new location this year! The Haymarket Farmers Market will now be held in front of the QBE Building, which is the old Pace West School. The Haymarket Farmers Market has become a go-to weekend event for local shoppers during the warmer months of the year. It features Virginia-grown products only and offers a bountiful selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, meats and other local products.

The Haymarket Farmers Market is run by the Town of Haymarket and vendors are welcome to participate by contacting the Town Hall at www.townofhaymarket.org.

Green Maple Market 7172 Lineweaver Road, Vint Hill Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Green Maple Market is a farm fresh, local foods market located in the old barn complex in Vint Hill, Virginia. Fairly new to the area, they sell local fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs, cheese, local honey, baked goods, fresh roasted coffee beans and other local artisanal products.

"We are passionate about healthy, wholesome food and our goal is to source the freshest, all natural, earthfriendly food we can find locally for our family, friends and community," says owner Katherine Fuerst Holster. Visit www.greenmaplemarket.com for more information.

Photo to left: Warrenton Farmers Market

COMMUNITY Warrenton Farmers Market Fauquier Hospital near Bistro Restaurant Wednesdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

May 4th through October 26th 5th & Lee Street, Warrenton Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

April 16th through November 19th There are two weekly farmers markets held in Warrenton, one at the hospital on Wednesdays and one in Old Town on Saturdays. Several local vendors come out to sell their produce which includes bedding plants, cut flowers, fruit, vegetables, herbs, meats, eggs, baked goods, condiments, crafts and other locally grown or produced agricultural products.

80% of products at these markets must come from vendors farm and 20% may be supplemented from other Virginia farmers.

You know it’s local!

Bryan Garcia, EXIT Heritage Realty | 703-517-2574

DID YOU KNOW? Facts about GMOs and why buying organic is a smart choice Note: This information is provided by the Non-GMO Project—a non-profit organization committed to preserving and building the non-GMO food supply, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices.

GMOs (or “genetically modified organisms”) are living organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering, or GE. This relatively new science creates unstable combinations of plant, animal, bacteria and viral genes that do not occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods.

Virtually all commercial GMOs are engineered to withstand direct application of herbicide and/or to produce an insecticide. Despite biotech industry promises, none of the GMO traits currently on the market offer increased yield, drought tolerance, enhanced nutrition, or any other consumer benefit.

Meanwhile, a growing body of evidence connects GMOs with health problems, environmental damage and violation of farmers’ and consumers’ rights.

For consumers, it can be difficult to stay up-to-date on food ingredients that are at-risk of being genetically modified, as the list of at-risk agricultural ingredients is frequently changing. As part of the Non-GMO Project’s commitment to informed consumer choice, they work diligently to maintain an accurate list of risk ingredients.

For more information about GMOs and a list of Non-GMO Verified products visit nongmoproject.org or look for the label above on products you use.

Smart Markets Farmers Market Piney Branch Elementary School, Bristow Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

(May to December) Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

(January to April) Smart Markets operates guaranteed producer-only farmers markets throughout Northern Virginia. They have a reputation for high-quality vendors which include a wide variety of locally-grown produce and an interesting mix of locally-made food products. Open year round, the winter market in Bristow offers meats of all kinds including fresh chicken, beef, pork, veal, lamb, goat and rabbit; fresh country eggs from Holly Brook Farm; apples, apple cider and some winter vegetables from Tyson Farms; wonderful breads and pastries from Great Harvest Bread Company; authentic hummus and baklava from Janie Hakim (Sweet Nuna) and delicious candies, cupcakes and more. The summer market is expanding with even more local products!

Middleburg Community Farmers Market 300 W. Washington Street on 200-400 Stonewall Avenue, Middleburg Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

May 7th to October 29th Held in the lot behind the Middleburg Community Center, the Middleburg Community Farmers Market is sponsored by the Town of Middleburg and provides local agriculturalists with a retail outlet for their products. The market also provides the citizens of the area with an opportunity to purchase fresh quality products from the folks who produce them. You’ll find seasonal vegetables, fresh chicken, baked goods, grass fed beef, lamb, eggs, herbs, Betty’s Chips & Salsa, flowers, honey, jams, and much more (photo on right). It’s well worth the short ride to the quaint town of Middleburg to visit this market of homegrown goodies.

Photo: Middleburg Community Farmers Market

COMMUNITY City of Manassas Farmers Markets Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

April 7th through November 3rd Harris Pavilion, Manassas Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

April 9th through November 19th Lot B, Manassas Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

June 7th through August 30th Harris Pavilion, Manassas Voted one of the best farmers markets in the area by Prince William Living magazine, the City of Manassas Farmers Market is one of the oldest in Northern Virginia. They pride themselves on the wonderful producers, loyal customers and warm community and offer a wide variety

HaymarketHomeowner.com of local products including produce, meats, plants, herbs, baked goods and so much more! This Market participates in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (S.N.A.P.) (Harris Pavilion is on the corner of Center and West Street and Lot B is on the corner of West and Prince William Streets across from the Train Depot.)

Archwood Green Barns Farmers Market Route 245 & I-66 at Exit 31, The Plains Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 24th to November 13th Serving Prince William and Fauquier Counties since 1998, the Archwood Green Barns Farmers Market occupies the main

barn on the grounds of a restored horse farm located right off I-66 in The Plains. Shop the produceronly market for hand-made and home-grown products that include baked goods, fruits, vegetables, canned goods, honey, beef, rabbit, eggs, bedding plants and more. Just a short ride from Haymarket, plan to stay for lunch and relax in this scenic location. The market offers hot, freshly-prepared BBQ, brick oven pizza and fresh pork sandwiches from Dancing Cow Farm.

SEASONAL FARM PICKS Burnside Farms

4905 James Madison Highway, Haymarket 2570 Logmill Road, Haymarket 2617 B Logmill Road, Haymarket This local farm has been growing flowers, plants and vegetables in the Haymarket area for three generations—offering something fresh-picked for every season!

Burnside prides itself on it’s chemical-free farming practices that follow guidelines for organic, sustainable production.

Located on three farms, Burnside is in the midst of it’s Festival of Spring.

Festival of Spring - Pick your own bouquets of Daffodils and Tulips.

Summer of Sunflowers - Pick your own Sunflowers from over 25 varieties in July.

Fall Market - Huge selection of pumpkins, fall plants, apples, cider, corn stalks and the Burnside Barnyard.

Winter - Fresh cut Virginia-grown Christmas trees and other fresh pine greenery.

Stop by or visit www.burnsidefarms.com for full schedule, locations and more information.

Buckland Farm Market

4484 Lee Highway, New Baltimore Open Year Round Create better quality meals with organically grown food from Buckland Farm Market located a few miles from Gainesville on Route 29. Shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, eggs, baked goods, jams and honey from both of their working farms as well as other local farms. An on-site bakery fills the air with delicious aromas from their freshly baked pies, cakes and breads. Along with seasonal flowers, herbs and country decór,

you’ll find something special for your table year round.

Visit www.bucklandfarmmarket.com for hours and seasonal offerings.

Photo at top: Tulips at Burnside Farms Photo above: Produce at Buckland Farm Market

NEW!

HOMEOWNER IMPROVEMENT & SERVICE DIRECTORY

Email BryanGarcia@ExitHeritageRealty.com to be included in this directory.

FENCING Beitzell Fence Company

4665 Sudley Road Catharpin, VA 20143 Phone: 571-754-0011 Email: beitzellfence@aol.com www.beitzellfence.com

FINANCE & LEGAL EverBank

12150 Monument Drive, Suite 300 Fairfax, VA 22033 Curtis Scott, Home Lending Sales Manager Phone: 571-332-6575 Email: curtis.scott@everbank.com www.everbank.com/cscott

New Penn Financial

15100 Washington Street Haymarket, VA 20169 Jackson Farr Phone: 571-359-4465 www.newpennfinancial.com/jfarr Anita Kane Phone: 571-486-7550 www.newpennfinancial.com/akane

FLOORING Kemper Carpet & Flooring 7937 Stonewall Shops Square Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 571-222-4838 www.kempercarpet.com

Please note: While these businesses are recommended

by Bryan Garcia, they are paid advertisers in this publication.

2016

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING INTERIOR DESIGN & HOME STAGING Air-Right Energy Design Inc. 12167 Livingston Road Manassas, VA 20155 Phone: 703-530-0166 Contact: Rick Graham, Owner www.air-right.com

Bridgett Wilson Designs

Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 703-477-0899 Contact: Bridgett Wilson, Principal/Owner www.bwilsondesigns.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPPLIES LANDSCAPE & GARDEN Benjamin Moore Paint 7466 Limestone Drive Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 571-222-7900 www.viennapaint.biz

HOME INSPECTION Macon Piercy & Son's Inc. Warrenton, VA Phone: 540-435-7903 Contact: Macon Piercy III, Owner/Inspector

Matt Lloyd Pillar to Post

5501 Merchants View Square, Suite 701 Haymarket, VA 20169 Phone: 703-520-1440 Contact: Matt Lloyd, Owner/Principal Inspector www.pillartopost.com/mattlloyd

HOME VALUE Bryan Garcia | EXIT Heritage Realty Free Competitive Market Analysis 15030 Washington Street Haymarket, VA 20169 Phone: 703-517-2574 Email: BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com www.novahousevalue.net

Gateway Home & Garden Center

4208 Lee Highway, Warrenton, VA 20187 Phone: 554-341-4006 Contact: Ryan Anderson www.lumberjake.com

MOVING & STORAGE Able Moving & Storage

8050 Wellingford Drive Manassas, VA 20155 Phone: 703-898-8182 Contact: Shawn Neal, Account Manager Email: sneal@ablemoving.com www.ablemoving.com

Ace Moving & Storage Inc.

14205 John Marshall Highway Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 703-707-9400 Contact: Melissa Cote, Move Coordinator www.acemoversinc.com

REMODELS & ADDITIONS On the Level Contractors

14720 Flint Lee Road Chantilly, VA 20151 Phone: 571-375-1700 (Office) Phone: 571-233-4820 (Cell) Contact: Georgia Psihas, Owner/President Email: sales@onthelevel.contractors www.onthelevel.contractors

TIPS & ADVICE

Time to Mulch

S

pring has arrived and so has the yard work. That means for many of us, it’s time to mulch. Besides giving your beds a clean, well-maintained appearance, mulch actually serves many other beneficial purposes. It insulates and protects roots from cold snaps and heat waves. It keeps the soil moist and reduces evaporation so you don’t have to water as much. It shades out weeds from sunlight to discourage growth. And, it protects trees by keeping mowers and trimmers at a safe distance.

But, there are different kinds of mulch—some are better than others and some better suited for different purposes.

How do you know what kind to buy? Here a few things to consider when buying mulch:

Choose mulch for its purpose A medium-textured mulch such as shredded hardwood will work in most places. But, big chunks, such pine bark nuggets will last longer for a permanent layer around trees. If you are digging through them in perennial beds, use something finer. For vegetable beds, use something fluffy and easily decomposed such as straw.

Non-organic covers such as gravel or recycled rubber tires will last longer and cover the ground but won’t improve the soil.

HaymarketHomeowner.com

Choose the right color There are generally three colors to choose from in yard mulch: red, brown and black.

Red mulch is often used in commercial settings but can look nice in some residential applications.

It’s vibrant color provides a good contrast to light plants and also works well against light stone buildings. Because this mulch is stained, pay attention to walks and driveways, it can stain light concrete.

Brown mulch is the most common and adds a nice touch to any lawn or garden. It compliments all shades of green. However, it tends to lose its color after just one season. Black mulch is known for it’s long lasting color. But, since black attracts and retains sunlight it should not be used in areas with delicate plants.

Consider the color of your house when choosing mulch. For example, a red brick house clashes with a red-hued mulch.

Organic untreated or treated?

Treated mulches can consist of added pre-emerging herbicides, to prevent weed growth. Less commonly, mulches are made from recycled wood that was pressure treated, which can leave behind harmful residues.

The concern with untreated, organic mulch is that it might provide an attraction to termites—especially if you are mounding bark mulch near untreated wood structures

or against the foundation or siding of your house. Therefore, you should always keep a 6-inch barrier of stone or another inorganic material between your house and untreated mulch. Also, if you are trying to maintain an organic garden, you should not use treated wood.

To avoid this, look for a seal of compliance from the Mulch and Soil Council or visit www.mulchandsoilcouncil.org for more information.

Bag or bulk?

Mulch comes in bags, usually containing 2 or 3 cubic feet. Buying mulch in bags allows you to buy different kinds for different purposes and is easier to handle and disperse. However, it is much more expensive. Most bagged mulches from reputable landscaping and garden centers or home-improvement stores are likely to be clean and safe. However, be careful of cheap bags of mulch, like those sold at gas stations. They may contain shredded construction debris or other waste with toxic chemicals, metals or lead paint.

Mulch can be ordered in bulk from landscaping or garden centers to be delivered. It can vary in cost, so shop around. Bulk mulch is measured in cubic yards—a cubic yard is 27 cubic feet.

Plan ahead You don’t want to buy too much—it wastes money and tempts you to spread it too deep, which can obstruct water and air to roots.

To determine how much mulch you need, measure your beds. Then determine how deep you want the beds: 1 to 2 inches for perennial beds; 3 to 4 inches over tree root.

There’s a great mulch calculator at HomeDepot.com. Go to mulch-calculator. homedepot.com and key in either the length and width or square footage. You can add multiple areas. Then enter the material depth and calculate.

You don’t have to remove old mulch, spread a new layer on top so old and new reach the right depth.

Wholesale Nursery & Paver Liquidators Serving Residents and Contractors Products include:

$250 Off

A $1,500 purchase of Paver and Wall Products with promo code: HaymarketHomeowner

* Mulch * Grass Seed & Fertilizer * Sod * Soil * Straw & Netting * All types of Shrubs & Trees: Annuals, Azaleas, Maples, Holly, Dogwoods, Magnolia, Cherry ... * Concrete & Masonry Supplies * Pavers * Wall Block *Palletized Natural Stone * Bird Feeders & Seed & more ...

Hours: M-F: 7 am to 5 pm; Sat: 7 am to 12 pm (Spring hours begin in March)

Not good with any other offers or prior purchases.

(Expires: 6/30/16)

Fencing for a Lifetime

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(with Minimum Purchase)

540-341-4006 4208 Lee Highway Warrenton, VA 20187

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Now featuring the only carpet protection and warranty covering all pets, all accidents, all the time.

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Retailer & LogoShops Square, Gainesville, VA 7937Name Stonewall 123 Any Street 571-222-4838 • Kempercarpet.com Any town, GA 00000 website.com Hours 0:00 am to 0:00 pm

ASK BRYAN GARCIA

HaymarketHomeowner.com

Buying a Second Home in Virginia and Beyond

W

e live in the perfect state to own a second home for weekend getaways and vacations. Within the borders of Virginia there are miles of pristine ocean shoreline, crystal clear lakes, quaint and historic towns and villages and magnificent mountain landscapes.

Whether you're into boating, hiking, hunting and fishing, creating art, skiing or just escaping a hectic work week, there may be a way to purchase your dream getaway.

If you can manage it, a second home can have many advantages. Right now, interest rates are still historically low and while the real estate market is thriving in Northern Virginia, there are markets in the state, as well as bordering states, that are very favorable for buyers. A second home can be used for personal enjoyment, investment property or as a future retirement home.

The first thing to consider is whether your second home would be used as a second home/residence or investment/rental property.

Tax Relief. If a second home is for your enjoyment only, you can deduct the mortgage interest and real estate taxes. If you rent your home for LESS than 14 days of the year, you don't have to report that income and still get the deductions. So, if you rent your home for just two prime weeks, that income is tax-free cash.

Rental Property. A second home can provide some vacation time but if you limit YOUR use of the home personally for less than 14 days, it can be considered a business or rental property. With that status, you do have to report all rental income, however deductions like property management, utilities, maintenance and miscellaneous expenses can all be applied.

There is, however, a way to spend more time at your second home if it is considered rental property. If you spend time "maintaining" the property, those fixup days don't count as personal use. Many vacation homeowners use this time to enjoy their property while making minor updates and attending to maintenance.

Buying a second home as an investment is a also good option for a future retirement residence. A good property can pay for itself and appreciate over time.

Consult with a tax expert to fully understand these benefits, as well as balancing a home for both personal use and rental use.

Websites like Homeaway.com and airbnb.com make renting your home easier than ever. Go to one of these websites and see what kind of rent a vacation home in the area you're thinking about can yield.

How do I get started?

If you are thinking about a second home, call Bryan Garcia at 703-517-2574. He can point you in the right direction. He has an EXTENSIVE NETWORK of Realtors throughout Virginia and many contacts out of state. He can recommend a suitable lender, will pre-qualify a reputable Realtor and offer support for your transaction.

(This article is not intended as tax advice by Bryan Garcia. Consult your accountant or tax advisor to verify the benefits mentioned in this article.)

Virginia mountain retreat would make a wonderful second home 208 River Oak Drive, Bentonville, VA 4 Bed, 2.5 Baths | 4.17 Acres | 2,253 SF

$379,000 Just an hour west of Haymarket, this wonderful mountain retreat would make an ideal second home or weekend getaway.

Located in a gated community, with spectacular mountain and river views, it is close to boating and hiking. Enjoy the outdoors on the nicely landscaped grounds with a fire pit, or from the huge wraparound screened-in porch or covered porch.

Inside you'll find all the luxuries needed, with a gorgeous kitchen, main level master suite, two wood-burning stoves, cable and internet, exceptional details throughout and much more.

ASK BRYAN GARCIA

Bryan Garcia, EXIT Heritage Realty | 703-517-2574

How Much Did That House Down the Street Sell For? www.NOVAHouseValue.net

Homes that have just come on the market

Sold Price versus Listing Price

Homes that have just sold

Are you interested in what's happening with real estate and home sales in YOUR neighborhood? Get a free, current MARKET SNAPSHOT emailed to you as often as you like you with full details about all the homes for sale or recently sold, the prices they sold for and how long they were on the market.

3 Easy Ways to Get Your Report: 1. Email your request to: BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com

Email alerts for price changes Number of Days on the Market

Type subject 'Market Report' and include your name and address in the email, or 2. Text MARKET REPORT to 703-517-2574 Bryan will contact you for your neighborhood details, or 3. Go to www.NovaHouseValue.net to sign up

Happy Spring!

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All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions apply. New Penn Financial, 4000 Chemical Road, Suite 200, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. NMLS ID # 3013 (nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Equal Housing Lender. ©2016 New Penn Financial, LLC. All rights reserved.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

HaymarketHomeowner.com

Gainesville Student to Bike Across America From Sea to Shining Sea

L

ake Manassas resident, Jamie Shalvey, will be cycling over 4000 miles from the shores of Providence, RI to the shores of Seattle, WA this summer to bring awareness to the growing need for affordable housing.

Jamie, a 2012 Battlefield High School graduate and fourth year student at University of Virginia, will be joining about thirty other riders who have signed on with Bike & Build—a nonprofit organization that benefits affordable housing and empowers young adults for a lifetime of service and civic engagement. Bikers from all over the country, and world, participate in seven separate coast-to-coast routes for this cause.

The eleven-week ride includes ten or more Build Days with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding

Together in which the crew will spend a day at build sites doing drywall, painting, landscaping or any other project that will help to bring a family that much closer to an affordable home.

Along the route, the riders will stop to take in the sights and “camp out” each night at a designated host site which may be a school, church or community center. The Bike and Build group will offer presentations to the local community in an effort raise awareness for their cause.

The bike route starts with the challenging New England and Catskills

terrain into the “flat” farmland states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska. The Badlands, the Tetons and Yellowstone (South Dakota into Wyoming) follow, capped off by Montana. The final stretch takes a brief pass through Idaho into Washington and on to Seattle. The ride literally ends with a plunge into the ocean!

Since her second year at UVA, Jamie has been actively involved in a co-ed service fraternity—Alpha Phi Omega (APO)—a group that is committed to service every day of the week throughout the Charlottesville community. Her work with APO, as well as fellow members who have done this ride before, inspired Jamie to take the challenge on herself.

“I love Charlottesville, but I’ve seen in recent years the wealth disparities and high levels of poverty in the area. I’m very grateful to APO for allowing me to break the bubble the university can create and be a helping hand to the over 900 nonprofits working to make Charlottesville better,” says Jamie.

“Recently I’ve become more aware of the need for affordable housing in Charlottesville. Volunteering at Sunrise, the nation’s first mobile home park to be redeveloped without resident displacement, and other Habitat for Humanity related events has showed me the side of Charlottesville that I may not have been aware of otherwise,” Jamie adds.

Jamie will be training for her ride this spring as she prepares to graduate in May with a degree in English and Global Studies in Education. She will start her journey just a week after graduation and will begin applying to graduate Public Administration programs this fall with a focus on the nonprofit sector.

Donations are welcomed for this worthwhile cause. Help Jamie reach her goal of $4500 and be part of the movement for affordable housing. To learn more and make a tax-deductible contribution to this worthy cause visit:

bikeandbuild.org/rider/8696

When you’re ready to move, we’re ABLE to move you.

Able Moving & Storage, Inc. is a full service moving company specializing in residential and commercial moves. With over 50 trucks, 150 full time employees, and over 100,000 square feet of state-of-the-art warehouse facilities, Able can help you with any of your moving needs.

Please call us at 703-330-3772 for a “Free Written Estimate”, and be sure to mention Haymarket Homeowner.

Ask About Special Discounts & Services for BRYAN GARCIA Clients

Vienna Paint & Decorating Vienna, Barcroft, Fairfax, Herndon, Ashburn, Gainesville, Chantilly

“Quality Makes The Difference”

This Spring Freshen Up With Benjamin Moore’s

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Vienna Paint of Gainesville 7466 Limestone Drive Gainesville, VA 20155 571-222-7900

For Store Hours & Other Locations Visit Us Online at: www.ViennaPaint.biz

HOME SALES

HaymarketHomeowner.com

February 2016 Real Estate Sales Here are the February 2016 real estate sales results for ALL home types in Haymarket and Gainesville along with the percentage of change from last year during the month of February 2015:

February 2016

HAYMARKET

GAINESVILLE

Number of Properties Sold % Change from February 2015

25 +8.7%

39 +8.3%

Median Sold Price % Change from February 2015

$469,000 +11.4%

$382,500 +10.9%

DOM (Days on Market) % Change from February 2015

120 +21.2%

67 +9.8%

Community Watch New to this issue, I will be including the real estate market data for upscale subdivisions in Haymarket and Gainesville. In future issues, I will alternate larger communities with smaller ones, as well as active adult and luxury townhouse communities.

You will notice that the data shows exceptional differences between communities.

Keep in mind that there are fewer homes within a subdivision to collect data from, often with just a couple of sales, compared to that of a town or region. Also this is a year-to-date (YTD) report which, so far, is only two months.

Consistent in most neighborhoods right now is an increase of Days on the Market.

Other signs look good so as the spring moves on, hopefully the DOM will decrease.

Haymarket Homeowner UPSCALE LIVING IN HAYMARKET & GAINESVILLE

Haymarket Homeowner is published quarterly

by Bryan Garcia, Realtor®. It is printed and mailed to over 11,000 households in Haymarket and Gainesville, Virginia. Design and production by Shalvey Creative.

For information about advertising or articles, contact BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com. © Copyright 2016 Bryan Garcia | Exit Heritage Realty. This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for legal, financial or tax advice. Real estate market information is obtained from third party sources. Publisher is not liable for accuracy of any data or statistics.

If your home is currently listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.

Haymarket Subdivisions YEAR TO DATE (JANUARY & FEBRUARY)

DOMINION VALLEY

EVERGREEN

PIEDMONT

Number of Properties Sold % Change from 2015 YTD

10 +66.7%

2 +100%

9 +200%

Median Sold Price % Change from 2015 YTD

$588,675 +1.94%

$588,650 -18.24%

$529,990 +15.2%

DOM (Days on Market) % Change from 2015 YTD

162 +82%

115 -2.5%

151 +75.6%

Gainesville Subdivisions YEAR TO DATE (JANUARY & FEBRUARY)

LAKE MANASSAS

VIRGINIA OAKS

OAK VALLEY

Number of Properties Sold % Change from 2015 YTD

5 +150%

3 -25%

2 +100%

Median Sold Price % Change from 2015 YTD

$635,000 -26%

$435,000 +25.18%

$679,500 +.67%

DOM (Days on Market) % Change from 2015 YTD

232 +65.7%

104 +131%

117 -40.3%

Piedmont NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

Scan this QR Code to see ALL the homes for sale TODAY in Piedmont.

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INStIoDTEA:BLE

FARtMArea Farmers Markets

Haymarke

Haymarket Homeowner UPSCALE LIVING IN HAYMARKET & GAINESVILLE

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BRYAN GARCIA Associate Broker EXIT Heritage Realty www.EXITgarcia.com BryanGarcia@exitheritage.com

Real Estate & Community News from Bryan Garcia, "Haymarket Real Estate Guy" 703-517-2574

703-517-2574

EXIT HERITAGE REALTY

15030 Washington Street Haymarket, VA 20169 703-753-9100 Independently Owned and Operated

Visit us at: HaymarketHomeowner.com

WE DON’T JUST CLOSE LOANS,

WE OPEN DOORS

FIND A TAILORED MORTGAGE FOR YOU FROM EVERBANK.

Contact me to learn more

Call 571.332.6575 © 2014 EverBank. All rights reserved.

15ERM0025.08. EverBank NMLS ID: 399805.

Curtis Scott Home Lending Sales Manager curtis.scott@everbank.com everbank.com/cscott NMLS ID: 659506