Real Estate Information Archive

Moving is in the top 5 of the 10 Most Stressful Life Events. Divorce ranks in the top five as well.   Put those two together and you have a meltdown in the making.  If you and your spouse own a home together and you are divorcing, you are going to have to figure out what you’re going to do about the house.  This can be challenging under the most amicable of situations, and can be devastating when there is bitterness and fighting.

Since your home is likely the greatest asset that you share, selling it is often necessary when parting ways.  Sentimental value may entice one or the other of you to want to keep the home, but financial implications may keep you from doing so.  Understanding how divorce affects the sale of a home is crucial.  The emotional aspect of splitting up your family can sometimes impair your judgement, but making a poor decision regarding your home can have lasting ramifications, long after the divorce is finalized. 

Whether one spouse wants to buy out the other and keep the home or both want to sell and split the equity, selling a house while getting divorced is a rocky road that needs to be navigated intelligently.  When two people are willing to deal with each other in a peaceful, respectful way, it certainly makes the whole process easier. But often this is not the case in these situations.  Division of a home is not simple. 

When each spouse contributed to purchase the home - even if one paid more than the other - you are both going to want your fair share out of it.  Ideally, you will be able to work with an attorney or mediator to come to an agreement out of court, but if you can’t, a judge will decide for you.  This can be a very unpleasant experience for all parties involved.  If both your incomes were factored in the purchase of the house, chances are when you split that in half, neither of you can afford it on your own. If that is the case, the best solution is to sell the home and divide the assets.  There are also Tax Implications that should be considered when you are trying to decide if you should sell before you divorce or after.

Should one of you decide to stay in the home, there are a couple of different ways to make that happen.  First, if you have the financial means to do so, you can take over the mortgage by refinancing.  This means you must qualify for the loan and be able to make the monthly payments on your own.  Your ex-spouse will be completely out of the picture.  Another way is to continue co-owning the property.  Perhaps you have children and want to keep them in their home. While this is the least disruptive option, it is precarious and requires a lot of trust.  It would have to be a very civil and friendly divorce for this to work because both parties will be responsible for the mortgage and upkeep of the house.  The bottom line is that if you plan to stay in the home, you better be sure you can afford it.  It would be prudent to work out a  budget before you make the decision.

With all the financial and emotional issues that get wrapped up in the sale of a home during divorce, it’s crucial that you know what you want prior to meeting with a Realtor. It is best for you to meet with your attorneys for them to guide you through the process of deciding how to split the equity. Once you’ve done that, seek out an experienced Realtor with exceptional communication skills who will gently guide you through the process with as little stress as possible.

If you’re thinking about selling or buying a home in the New River Valley area, contact professional, experienced Realtor Desi Sowers and let her assist you with all your real estate needs. Give her a call today at 540-320-1328!

Photo Credit: huffingtonpost.com

The Dublin Lions Club presents the 2018 Pulaski County Flea Market on Saturday, September 22, 2018 and Sunday, September 23, 2018 at the New River Valley Fairgrounds in Dublin, VA.

The Pulaski County Flea Market is celebrating 44 years! Check out over 800 vendors with crafts, antiques and tons of delicious food including the famous Lion Dog at the semi-annual Pulaski County Flea Market.

Information and photo provided by the Dublin Lions Club

Mountain views in a peaceful country setting await the lucky buyer of this Belspring cottage. Neat, clean and move in ready with fresh paint, new carpet, trendy light fixtures plus many additional improvements. Nestled on fenced acre lot with a covered front porch setting the scene for relaxing everyday living. Inviting living room with big window views is the perfect place to entertain. The kitchen flows easily into the living area and offers a French door refrigerator, electric range, dishwasher, an abundance of cabinet space plus a serving bar. Comfortable main level living with a master suite, bedroom two, second bath and a laundry room. Additional large bedroom upstairs overlooks this picturesque setting. Keep your outdoor toys out of the elements with unfinished basement space, a garage and storage building. Convenient access to schools, shopping and dining. Pack your bags, this one is a winner and ready for you. View The Floor Plan

You don’t have to just visit; you can live here and enjoy Virginia’s growing economy and vacation-like lifestyle! With easy access to I-81 you can appreciate a prime example of why New River Valley VA is such a desired place to live and play.

Desi Sowers has distinguished herself as a leader in the New River Valley real estate market. Desi assists buyers looking for New River Valley real estate for sale and aggressively markets New River Valley homes for sale.

Desi brings with her a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a New River Valley home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why her clients benefit from her unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, focused on the Future – Desi Sowers will help make the most of your New River Valley real estate experience. Give her a call today, 540-320-1328, and discover the difference she can make during your family's move.

Football season is here and for some that means party time!  Gathering with friends and family to watch your favorite team will be all the more fun with these game-day party tips!

GUEST LIST: Make sure to invite people well in advance so that you know how many to plan for.  If you are a die-hard football fan, you may want to consider only inviting other die-hard fans, but if you are just using the game as an excuse to have a party, invite anyone and everyone you enjoy socializing with. The more the merrier!  You also might want to make it an adult only affair. A day of watching tv and eating junk food might not be the best idea for little ones, especially if there isn’t a lot of space for them to run around and burn off energy. 

PARTY LOCATION: If you live in a tiny apartment with one small couch, you are going to want to either limit how many people you invite to just a few or you might want to totally steer clear of hosting a party at your home.  The optimal setting for a football watching party is a large room with lots of seating and a casual atmosphere.  Oh…and don’t forget…a BIG television!

WHAT TO SERVE: Now, for the most important aspect of a game day party…THE FOOD!  Creating a game day menu is one time when you can be a junk food junkie and feel good about it!  Think finger foods that are easily consumed while sitting on a couch watching the game. You can’t go wrong with chips, dips and nachos, but if you want something a little more substantial, great options are wings, ribs and chili.  You want to stick with foods that can be prepared ahead of time and served up easily so that you don’t have to miss any of the game.  Have some SWEETS on hand for dessert. They should be portable and easy to eat - like cake pops, cupcakes and brownies.  If you really want to impress your guests, make some Football Shaped Food.  Whether you keep it simple, or go all out in terms of presentation, just make sure you have enough for everyone!

USE TEAM COLORS FOR YOUR THEME: Make things festive by adding decorations in your favorite team’s colors.  Think streamers, paper plates, napkins, and cups. Decorating can be the difference between a gathering and a true PARTY!

If you love to host parties and relish the idea of going all out, then go for it!  But if you just want to kick back with people to watch the game, keep it simple and don’t stress.  Most importantly, enjoy the time spent with friends and family!

If you’re thinking about selling or buying a home in the New River Valley area, contact professional, experienced Realtor Desi Sowers and let her assist you with all your real estate needs. Give her a call today at 540-320-1328!

Photo Credit: factorybuilderstores.com

Come out to the Blacksburg library Saturday, September 15^th from 11am-12pm to Read with “Pip”.  Parents, reserve a 10 minute reading slot for your child to practice reading aloud to a certified therapy bird, "Pip" and its handler, Elisabeth.

Photo and information provided by Montgomery-Floyd Regional Library

New River Valley VA Real Estate For Sale
7361 Dent Drive, Radford, VA  24141

Nestled on a picturesque 1.1 acre lot sits this classic Dutch colonial that has been lovingly maintained and with just a little TLC could be exactly what you have been dreaming of! Three bedrooms including a main floor master, 2.5 baths, spacious rooms, tons of natural light, wood moldings and casings, extra storage and an array of classic touches highlight this Deerwood Forest all brick home. A crackling fireplace and French doors to the new Trex deck set the scene for comfortable family gatherings in this spacious living room. Flowing to the eat in kitchen where a bay window, breakfast bar, newer appliances and an abundance of cabinet space make meal prep a breeze. A large laundry room with sink and cabinetry will help you stay organized, while a built-in desk make this office a delightful space to work from home. Escape to the calming allure of the first-floor master bedroom with multiple closets and a private bathroom. Parquet floors highlight the two additional bedrooms on the second level, plus a shared full bath and lots of closet space. Still want more? Add additional living space to match your family’s needs by finishing the full basement, already plumbed for a bath. The peace and quiet of this beautiful backyard surrounded by mature trees will help you escape the busyness of the day. An attached 2 car garage provides plenty of vehicle storage, plus a single car garage under gives you plenty of room for hobbies, tools and toys. Offering so many quality features, 7361 Dent Drive is move in ready, but lets you add your own special touches and cosmetic updates along the way!

You don’t have to just visit; you can live here and enjoy Virginia’s growing economy and vacation-like lifestyle! With easy access to I-81 you can appreciate a prime example of why New River Valley VA is such a desired place to live and play.

Desi Sowers has distinguished herself as a leader in the New River Valley real estate market. Desi assists buyers looking for New River Valley real estate for sale and aggressively markets New River Valley homes for sale.

Desi brings with her a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a New River Valley home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why her clients benefit from her unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Desi Sowers will help make the most of your New River Valley real estate experience. Give her a call today, 540-320-1328, and discover the difference she can make during your family's move.

With autumn approaching, many of us are ready for cooler temperatures, pumpkin spice everything, and the majestic colors of fall foliage.  Living in the New River Valley means that you are lucky enough to be in a prime location to enjoy the bold, colorful display that others drive for hours to experience.  Peak fall color for the Blue Ridge Mountains usually occurs between mid-October and early-November, and while you may be able to walk right out your front door to see it, there are some spots that are known for being the best places to go to see the colors.  Check out this list and make plans for a fall foliage excursion today!

Cahas Knob Overlook - Blue Ridge Parkway - Milepost 139

At an elevation of 3,013 feet, Cahas Knob Overlook provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley and mountains, including Cahas Mountain.  Bring a blanket and picnic basket for a lovely day on the plateau and green space.

Carvins Cove - If you want to stay active while reveling in the reds, golds, and oranges of the fall season, then Carvins Cove is the perfect place for you. This 12,700 acre natural reserve provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and boating.

Mabry Mill - Blue Ridge Parkway - Milepost 176.1

Long regarded as one of the most iconic spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this scenic area is beautiful year ‘round, but especially in the fall. It’s the perfect place to take photos of fall colors and while you’re there don’t miss out on the yummy buckwheat pancakes at their onsite restaurant.

Roanoke Mountain - Blue Ridge Parkway - Milepost 120.4

If you don’t have time to venture too far from the city, the four-mile loop at Roanoke Mountain off the Blue Ridge Parkway is a wonderful option.  You will still experience wonderful views even though you are only a few miles from the city.  Want to take a short hike? Try the Summit Trail and delight in some spectacular perspectives.

Roaring Run Trail - Enjoy an easy hike while taking in the fall colors at the Roaring Run Trail.  While you’re there, stop to see one of the most historic spots in the region - The Roaring Run Furnace.  This 19^th century iron furnace is on the National Register of Historic Places. Savor the beauty of cascading water along the trail, including the beautiful Roaring Run Falls.

Whether you step right outside your door or take a weekend excursion, the New River Valley is the perfect place to revel in the gorgeous blanket of fall colors!

If you’re thinking about selling or buying a home in the New River Valley area, contact professional, experienced Realtor Desi Sowers and let her assist you with all your real estate needs. Give her a call today at 540-320-1328!

Photo Credit: patch.com

You don’t have to just visit; you can live here and enjoy Virginia’s growing economy and vacation-like lifestyle! With easy access to I-81 you can appreciate a prime example of why New River Valley VA is such a desired place to live and play. Desi Sowers has distinguished herself as a leader in the New River Valley real estate market. Desi assists buyers looking for New River Valley real estate for sale and aggressively markets New River Valley homes for sale. Desi brings with her a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a New River Valley home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why her clients benefit from her unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, focused on the Future – Desi Sowers will help make the most of your New River Valley real estate experience. Give her a call today, 540-320-1328, and discover the difference she can make during your family's move.

Blacksburg United Methodist Church presents their 2018 Back-to-School Block Party on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at the Blacksburg UMC playground.

Families with kids in 5th grade or younger are invited to celebrate Back to School with us at a neighborhood Block Party. Have fun and make new friends as you enjoy the giant inflatable obstacle course, cupcake walk, face painting, games, crafts, and prizes!

This event is free and open to the community. No RSVP, just stop by. 

Photo and information provided by Blacksburg UMC