Real Estate Information Archive

Generation Y, better known as millennials are buying homes. In fact, per the National Association of Realtors’ 2017 study of generational housing trends, millennials (those born between 1980-2000) make up the largest portion of the buyer market at 34%. That being said, when selling your home, it would be wise to think about the wants and needs of millennials as potential buyers.  Here are 7 must-haves for selling a home to millennials:

• Updated kitchens and baths –  young homebuyers have been saving for a down payment and budgeted for mortgage payments, but they want move-in ready homes.  Updating kitchens and baths are expensive, so unless they are specifically looking for a fixer upper, they are going to want these rooms in particular to already be updated.
• Location, location, location - millennials are not only facing higher gas prices, but they are more environmentally conscious.  They are looking for homes in areas that have easy access to public transportation and a good walk score.
• Great Rooms – there was a time when a formal dining room was on every buyer’s wish list. But this generation of buyers prefers a great room with combined kitchen and living space.  And because of how younger homeowners entertain, they prefer an open floor plan for easier flow throughout the house.
• Home office – millennials make up a huge portion of our work force. Working from home has risen in popularity by 80% over the past ten years.  So, having a home office is definitely a must for most young buyers.  Even if you have a room staged as a bedroom, it would be prudent for your agent to point out that it could be used as a home office.
• Low maintenance – young buyers want low maintenance homes.  Things like wood floors and granite countertops appeal to them because they are both attractive and easy to take care of.  Smaller yards are their preference as well. They want to spend their free time relaxing or traveling, not doing yardwork and cleaning.
• Technology – this generation life without the internet and cell phones.  Good service is vital to them.  Many millennials don’t even use a landline.  You may not be able to control the strength of cell service at your home, but you can be sure that young buyers will be asking about it.
• Energy efficiency – With a growing interest in protecting the environment, younger buyers look to buy "green homes".  While energy efficiency is not the top reason to purchase a house, it can certainly be an advantage when dealing with millennial buyers.

If you are a millennial looking to buy a home in the New River Valley, let Desi Sowers help you find the perfect home to suit your needs and desires.  Call her today at (540) 320-1328!

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Welcome-to-the-New-River-Valley

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Help-for-First-Time-Homebuyers

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/To-Renovate-or-Not-to-Renovate-Should-You-Fix-Up-Your-Home-or-Sell-it-As-Is

Claytor Lake State Park presents Bike Your Park Day: Cruising Claytor on Saturday, September 30, 2017.

Explore Claytor Lake State Park on National Bike Your Park Day. The trails throughout Claytor Lake State Park are perfect for a nice bike ride. Some of these trails have paved areas, others are all dirt, but none are too tricky or steep to bike.

You can ride with a group, yourself, or join us for this guided bike ride along Claytor Lake Trail. The guided ride starts at 10 am at the Claytor Lake Trailhead located between Campgrounds B and C.

It's also National Public Lands Day so there will be no parking fee for park visitors.

Video provided by Adventure Cycling Association

Do you dream of living somewhere with majestic views, stunning sunsets and wide open spaces?  We have the home for you!  Welcome to 2221 Peakland Way in Christiansburg, VA.  Situated on an appealing 1.06-acre lot in the Heritage Place subdivision, this property leaves nothing to be desired. Luxurious living is the name of the game with 6,500 square feet of designer touches and upgrades that are sure to impress. Lush foliage and immaculate landscaping greet you as you pull into the blacktop driveway to the attached double garage. Stately columns, cut glass sidelights and transom provide an opulent aesthetic as you enter the house. Gleaming hardwood floors, octagonal tray ceilings and elegant moldings are just some of the features that will inspire you to make this your home.

The comfortably flowing, open floor plan will make entertaining guests a joy.  With their unique architectural designs, the formal living and dining areas will serve as lovely backdrops for dinner parties. For family time and more casual gatherings, enjoy the warm, spacious family room.  Cozy up to the fireplace and grab a book from the lovely surrounding built-in shelves.  The cook of the family won’t have to miss a thing because the gourmet kitchen is open to the family room. Sparkling granite counters, posh stainless-steel appliances, an abundance of cabinets and triple ovens make this kitchen a chef’s dream!  The adjacent, sun drenched breakfast nook includes large windows that will have you lingering over your morning coffee as you savor gorgeous views. Relaxation will come easy in the adjoining sunroom where natural light streaming through the numerous windows will make reading a pleasure, and sunset views a delight. 

Unwind at the end of the day in a sumptuous master suite.  Located on the main floor, it’s lavish tray ceiling and sitting area with bay windows create a private haven for peaceful rest.  Pamper yourself in the spa-like master bath with dual vanities, jetted tub and separate shower. Two additional bedrooms on the main floor are generously sized and include walk-in closets.  A second full bath and a convenient mudroom complete the main floor.

A loft upstairs is a wonderful spot for a man cave and includes access to a walk-in attic.

Still want more?  This house has it!  The lower level includes a massive in-law suite complete with its own sitting area, full bath with tremendous walk-in shower, and even a bright sun-nook with space for a table and chairs.  Imagine lively celebrations with family and friends in the enormous lower level great room with its alluring gas fireplace.  A second sunroom that affords awe-inspiring views is currently being utilized as an exercise room, but could be used in numerous other ways. The possibilities are endless!  An office that could also be used as another bedroom, a bonus rec room and an additional full bath complete this magnificent space.

Step right outside to the upper deck or the lower patio to breath in the fresh air and relish in the breathtaking scenery. A third garage on the back side of the house provides ample storage or can be used as a workshop. 

Life in the New River Valley will be all the sweeter when living in this special home.  You don’t want to miss out on this one!  Call Desi Sowers at (540) 320-1328 and make your appointment to see it today!

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. This Christiansburg VA home is just steps to shopping, nightlife, VA Tech and recreational activities.

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.

View the Tour

Having a cluttered house makes life more challenging than it has to be.  The emotional toll of clutter can be surprisingly draining.  Take these steps to declutter your house and before you know it you will start to experience the positive effects of a clutter-free life!

1. Stop the flow of stuff coming in. Some people have a rule that if you buy something, you must get rid of something. That is all fine and well if your house isn’t already cluttered.  But, if you have too much stuff you are going to need to get rid of things and NOT replace them with other things.
    
2. Declutter at least one item a day. You don’t have to do it all at once.  You likely feel overwhelmed by the thought of trying to declutter.  Take it one small step at a time.  Some days you might get a lot accomplished, others you may not. But try to declutter at least one item a day. 
    
3. Declutter the easy stuff first.  If there are things that you know are going to be difficult to part with, don’t start with them.  Start with the easiest things.  Ease your way into the process. 
    
4. Have a disposal plan in place. Do your research. Find out where you can donate or sell items.  After all, your trash might be someone else’s treasure. Websites like Freecycle and Ebay, as well as local thrift stores, are good disposal options.
    
5. Decide not to keep things out of guilt or obligation. If you love it, keep it. If you use it, keep it.  But if it is meaningless to you and simply taking up space, get rid of it!
    
6. Don’t be afraid to let go.  If you are hanging on to something because you might use it someday, don’t.  Be realistic.  If you haven’t used it in years, chances are you will never use it.  Let. It. Go.
    
7. Only declutter what is yours.  All family members should participate and go through their own belongings to decide what to keep and what to dispose of.
    
8. Do not waste your life on clutter! Clutter drains your energy.  It’s a physical manifestation of chaos that can often make you feel like you are not in control.  Take that first step and start enjoying life without clutter!

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Autumn-Home-Maintenance-Must-Do-List

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Lunch-Logistics-Organizing-Your-Kitchen-for-Back-to-School-Lunches

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Packing-it-Up-and-Moving-it-Out

The Aware Foundation presents a free Self-Defense Class on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Depot Park in Christiansburg, VA.  Come out and learn practical skills to help you defend yourself.

This is a free class and all are welcome. No pre-registration is required.

Note: Please wear comfortable clothing to participate.

The Aware Foundation promotes safety awareness for the missing and endangered, assists families in the location of and advocacy for the missing, endangered, and murdered or assaulted, works with law enforcement agencies and media outlets on missing person cases and educates students and communities on the dangers of predatory violence. 

Information and photo provided by Aware Foundation

Opportunity is knocking in this main level Radford VA home. Come on over and let yourself get swept away by the serene ambiance of the screened porch. Relish in the main level floor plan complete with beautiful hardwood floors, durable tile, ceiling fans, multi panel doors, central HVAC and big window views. Slip your shoes off and kick back in the soothing family room. Generously sized kitchen offers an abundance of cabinet and counter space, an appliance package, room to dine and double door access to the inviting screened porch. Three main level bedrooms including a master suite with private bath and a spa tub. Nice laundry room to help keep things tidy. One car garage plus ample parking. Beauty, Warmth and Value await the lucky buyer. Make your appointment today.  View Floorplan

You are ready to purchase your first house.  Your credit score is great.  You know you can afford a monthly mortgage payment based on your budget.  You are sure you will be approved for a mortgage loan.  But that down payment!  How the heck are you supposed to come up with 20%?  Don’t despair, because the truth is, you don’t need a 20% down payment to purchase a house!

Saving for a down payment on a house can seem overwhelming for many people.  Keep in mind that it can come from various sources.  Funds can come from bank accounts, stocks or mutual funds, an inheritance or a gift from a family member.  Some people will even use assets from their retirement portfolio.  Requirements regarding where the money comes from for your down payment depend on the loan type. Also, purchasing a primary residence usually requires a lower down payment than if you are purchasing a second home or buying an investment property.

The myth about down payments is that 20% is the norm. While that may have been true in the past, it’s not anymore.  The fact is that in 2016, the average down payment was just 11%, per the National Association of Realtors.  Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t even consider buying a home because they still think they need 20% down.  The NAR 2017 Aspiring Home Buyers Profile found that 39% of non-owners believed they needed more than 20% for a down payment, while 26% thought they needed to put down 15-20%.  Not true!

So now that you know you don’t have to have 20%, perhaps buying a home seems more within reach.  But there are still some things you should be aware of before taking that first step toward homeownership. Various factors are at play in determining if you should take on a mortgage with lower down payment.  For example, the less you put down, the larger your mortgage payment will be each month.  That is because you will have a larger loan amount, possibly a higher mortgage interest rate and the added cost of mortgage insurance.  So, while you don’t have to come up with more cash, your monthly costs go up.

Once you have educated yourself about the requirements, you can make informed decisions about your budget and how much you can afford.  Don’t let the 20% down payment myth stop you from pursuing your dream of home ownership! 

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Help-for-First-Time-Homebuyers

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/Buying-a-Home-is-a-Sound-Financial-Investment

http://www.desisowers.com/Blog/The-Top-Ten-Things-to-Look-for-When-House-Hunting

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be in the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets?  This Saturday September 16^th from 11AM-3PM you can have the opportunity to experience  life as a Cadet at Virginia Tech Corps Day. 

Among the planned activities are pull-up and push-up competition stations, drill practice featuring marching and singing cadences, tactical face painting, dress like a cadet and a chance to race through the Corps of Cadets obstacle course! For kids, there will also be a miniature O-Course.

The Grillfield Food Truck will also be on site for food purchases.

So come on out, bring your friends, and get to know the Corps of Cadets!

Information and photo from Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets