BlogCommunitiesEventsFallNeighborhoodsSeasonsTowns March 2, 2017

Fredericksburg First Fridays!

Come for the History, Stay for the Art

Everybody knows about Fredericksburg’s historical significance, but we’re also home to a burgeoning art scene with a myriad of art galleries, workshops and independent artists! We celebrate our vibrant artistic community on the first Friday of every month: galleries, restaurants, cafes, shops and even workout studios open their doors to showcase local artists. In the warmer months, it’s not uncommon to see musicians on the street and a friendly crowd enjoying refreshments as they traipse from business to business downtown. There’s even a free First Friday trolley from 6-9pm with stops near many of the galleries and convenient free parking lots! If you’re visiting Fredericksburg, the trolley runs through some of our City’s charming residential neighborhoods so you can get a feel for what it’s like to live here! 

Home is an Art Form

We’re especially excited about this First Friday because we’re hosting “Home is an Art Form,” a showcase of many local artists from LibertyTown Arts Workshop in our Downtown office at 520 William Street! We’ll also have renderings of the gorgeous to-be-built condos at 600 Amelia St on display, a specialty thyme-based cocktail courtesy of Sedona Taphouse and plenty of refreshments! It’s shaping up to a be a beautiful night out and we’re so happy to be participating in the First Friday tradition!

Some of the other notable First Friday exhibits are the terrarium workshop at Ponshop, the Route 66-themed photography exhibit at Brush Strokes Gallery, and the UMW Invitational Student Art Show across the street from us at LibertyTown Arts!

We’d love to see everyone out this Friday at our Home is an Art Form exhibit! We’re right next to Stop F on the trolley, so grab a free cocktail and some snacks while you peruse the art!

BlogWelcome February 17, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Karen Nutt

karen nutt

Meet Karen

Moving! It can be stressful, thrilling, a little sad and so exciting, all at the same time. I’ve experienced many types of moves in the last 25 years as a military spouse – from well-planned cross-country and international moves to buying a house in two days with minimal sleep or knowledge of the area. Fortunately, we had a wonderful Coldwell Banker agent to assist us with our two-day purchase and we were so happy to have him on our side. That was over 19 years ago and I still remember how he made us feel… at ease. He shared his knowledge of the home buying process and we valued his familiarity with the area and financing using VA loans. He also had a great sense of humor, which is always a bonus for me. There were a few challenges along the way but in the end, it was a piece of cake!
Though my family and I have lived in many places, we are so delighted to call Virginia our forever home. I am proud to be affiliated with the best real estate company in Virginia, Coldwell Banker Elite. With the latest in technology and marketing, numerous awards as well as a solid team of agents, my company truly stands out in the industry. As a Military Relocation Professional and a Senior Real Estate Specialist, I love working with clients in different stages of their lives. Some clients are first-time home buyers and some are looking to downsize since entering the “empty nest” phase of life. In addition to my training and experience, my goal is to make your move as stress-free as possible and to deliver the highest standard in service! Knowledge, experience and a true commitment to my clients is what I promise. Exceeding your expectations is what I strive for. I want your move to be a piece of cake, as well!
I consider many of my past clients to be friends and I love hearing from them and how moving has changed their lives. Some are having fantastic adventures abroad! Others are enjoying retirement.
Thanks for reading a little bit about me, now I want to know more about you and how I can help with your next move. Whether you’re in the very early stages of planning your move or if you have two days to find a house, I’m here with my entire company at Coldwell Banker Elite and together we can do it!

Karen Nutt

knutt@cbeva.com

703-774-5187

BlogDownsizingFirst-Time Home SellersMarket InformationSellersSelling Luxury HomesSelling Your Rental February 16, 2017

Selling Your Home? Think Like A Buyer!

First Impressions Matter

Curb appeal can make or break your home’s sale! So many sellers totally neglect the exterior which is the first thing the buyer sees when considering your home. Mow the lawn, sweep the porch, and touchup any scuffed trim. Consider adding some chic front porch decor (consult Pinterest for some ideas!) and repaint your front door to give your prospective buyers a pleasant surprise!

Neutralize the Situation

Take a cue from HGTV and stick with neutral tones when it comes to wall colors and decor choices. They might seem boring but there’s a reason “greige” and light neutrals have become so popular this year–they work in almost every room and make the space look and feel bigger. Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter and Palladian Blue as well as Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray and Silvermist are all beautiful neutrals that work in almost every room. Aside from color choices, you’ll want to minimize any unusual art, family pictures or bold home decor.

What Would I Want?

Put yourself in their shoes. Is there an old, stained carpet in one of the rooms? Would you rather have to replace it yourself before you can even move in or buy a turnkey home with a neutral-color carpet? Resist the urge to assume “they’ll want to change it so why bother?” They’ll pass on it if it’s too much work!

If you were considering paying top dollar for a home, how would you want it to look/smell/sound? You don’t have to constantly be baking cookies during showings,  just make sure the home smells pleasant, there’s flattering lighting and maybe some soft music playing to make the home more appealing.

Stay Cool

Try to take a step back from all those long hours of painting or back-breaking afternoons tending your garden. Your home’s prospective buyer doesn’t know about any of that and won’t be calculating it into the price. Think about your home as cold and calculatingly as you can: What improvements actually add value? What could be seen as a detractor from the overall appeal of your home? Don’t be afraid to be ruthless when analyzing your home!

Trust Your Realtor

We deal with picky buyers and fickle market conditions every day.  We know what’s going to work and what needs to happen to sell your home for the most money. It’s easy to be misled by a Zestimate and assume that your house needs no improvement but if you really want to make money on your home, you’ll need to take a step back and view your house like a buyer! Trust that your Realtor has your best interests at heart and take their advice when it comes to staging and preparing your house for sale!

BlogWelcome February 13, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Alanda Brewer

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Meet Alanda

Purchasing my first home with my husband in Virginia ignited my interest in the real estate industry. My interest continued while I was a design specialist at Pottery Barn Kids. I discovered my calling when I got to meet new clients and help them create warm nurturing spaces for their families. After finishing my BAS in Human Relations degree at the University of Iowa I decided to take the leap and pursue a career as a certified home stager. My dream became reality when I launched my business Kallistos Designs LLC. The name Kallistos is Greek for “most beautiful” and symbolizes what I love about home staging: helping clients bring a dream of what they want in a space, and transforming it into beautiful reality. My dedication to detail and love of helping others see the potential of their biggest investment is what motivates me the most.
Through my work with home staging, I was able to partner with amazing people and saw my passion develop into something more. I began exploring the other side of reality and pursued expanding my expertise to become a Realtor.
When working with me you will get the complete package: The knowledge of home staging and design, dedicated customer service to listen to your needs, and the vision to help potential buyers and sellers visualize and connect with their new home. I truly am a one stop Realtor, and will do my best to turn your dreams into reality.
In my free time, I love to spend time with my two children, husband, and three dogs. Active in sports, I also participate and help with my kids travel teams. Lastly, my artistic vision is also expressed with my other venture: Alanda’s Hand Painted Decor. Hand crafted custom wood pieces and signs are shaped and created all by the lost art of free hand. This gives my pieces the unique personal touch you don’t find anywhere else. Grateful for an amazing group of friends and neighbors, I love to be apart of my community and giving back. No matter what endeavor I pursue it’s done with passion, caring, detail, and goes above and beyond the extra mile.

Alanda Brewer

abrewer@cbeva.com

808-255-9432

BlogWelcome February 13, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Cheryl Izzo

cheryl Rizzo

Meet Cheryl

I’m honored to be a realtor with Coldwell Banker Elite and excited at the idea of being able to help you buy or sell a home. Fredericksburg has been my home for almost 20 years. My children grew up here and we have enjoyed the rich history of the Fredericksburg region as we have watched it grow and provide everything we desire in a community. A home is important however, a community is an important component in the home-buying experience. If you are looking for a place to retire, Fredericksburg offers welcoming neighborhoods, easy to access medical care and a seasonal array of outdoor activities. A perfect fit for everyone in your family.

My family and I live in the historic district of Fredericksburg which showcases small town charm, vast history and captivating nature complete with a river. The Riverfest, outdoor concerts, theatre, local artisans, farmer markets and unique restaurants are all part of the allure of Fredericksburg.

Outside of work, I love to knit, read, bird watch, volunteer and roller skate. My street has the old-time flavor so, I’m able to do a lot of things right here at home on my big ole’ porch. Birds are abundant being so close to the river and we definitely have an impressive variety of birds to admire. I volunteer in the local medical clinic and homeless shelter as well as serve on medical mission trips to Central America. I love downhill skiing but, my lifelong passion is being a competitive figure skater. I travel all over the United States and have been living the dream with a team that I consider family.

When you are ready for your Fredericksburg experience, allow me to introduce you to this amazing area with Coldwell Banker!

Cheryl Izzo

540-287-7974

cizzo@cbeva.com

BlogElite NewsWelcome February 3, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Cameron Coleman

cameron coleman

Meet Cameron

Cameron Coleman is a Commercial Sales and Leasing Associate and holds a real estate license in Virginia and Maryland with Coldwell Banker Commercial Elite. Cameron recently graduated from Salisbury University, a Maryland University of National Distinction, and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and a minor in Finance.

Cameron spent the summer of 2013 at Coldwell Banker Commercial Elite as an intern shadowing the Vice President of the Commercial Division and working closely with many other Senior Sales Associates. During this time, he worked on several projects that included commercial investments, retail leasing, and medical office buildings.

Cameron is ambitious and will devote all his effort to ensure his clients’ success, happiness and well being in the pursuit of their commercial real estate needs.

CBE Spotsylvania

990 Bragg Rd Fredericksburg, VA 22407

540-785-3368

ccoleman@cbeva.com

BlogElite NewsWelcome February 3, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Shelley Johnson

shelley johnson

Meet Shelley

Growing up in a Real Estate family definitely made way for some interesting dinner table talk! From a young age, I felt as if I were part of many Real Estate transactions and negotiations. I acquired a first-hand education and a deep understanding of the field prior to any formal instruction. As a result, I eventually found my own way into the industry in 2005, after working in both banking and insurance. That prior experience provided a firm foundation that only enables me to serve my clients better.
I know that a home is one of the largest investments for most Americans. Whether buying or selling, that can sometimes lead to a little apprehension. However, with the right Realtor guiding you, the fear gives way to excitement and FUN! My approach begins with treating each client like my only client and carefully listening to their needs and goals. Then I put my skills, knowledge of the local market, and Coldwell Banker Elite’s cutting-edge technology to work for you. I’m always available to answer questions, concerns, and provide careful guidance to help you make the best real estate decisions. I have over a decade of expertise and feel blessed that my clients have not only been satisfied with my services, but thru the process have made memories and become lifelong friends. Although I am a professional Realtor, I really just see myself as the friend next door that has your back and truly looks out for your best interests by negotiating to save you the most money. I love the excitement, the challenges, and rewards of this business; and I find nothing more fulfilling than seeing my clients happy and achieving their dreams.
I am a member of the Fredericksburg Association of Realtors, Virginia Association of Realtors, as well as the National Association of Realtors.
I’ve been married for 25 years to my heroic husband Kurt, an Officer with Ft Belvoir Fire & Emergency Medical Services, US Army Base. I am the proud mother of 4 amazing individuals. My first-born daughter is a very brave Leukemia survivor and currently works at a local Law firm, my second daughter is serving in the US Army, and my two youngest teenagers, a son and daughter, are homeschooled and still finding their own way. All have contributed to my hidden grays, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Even motherhood has attributed to my success as a Realtor. The same basic principles apply …. selflessly helping at all hours of the day or night and sticking in there when things get tough. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my first grandchild, taking road trips with my family, and finding the best local attractions and restaurants. One of my favorites has been to visit Chip & Joanna Gaines, Magnolia Silos in Waco, Texas. But, really nothing compares to our own hometown of Fredericksburg, VA and I’d love to show you around!
If you’re looking for a friend and Professional to guide you through the process, call me at 540-379-1022. I’m looking forward to meeting and helping you with your Real Estate needs.

Your Realtor friend,

Shelley Johnson

CBE Spotsylvania

990 Bragg Rd Fredericksburg, VA 22407

BlogElite NewsWelcome February 3, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Lindsay Janney

lindsay janney

Meet Lindsay

After receiving a degree in Business Management in North Carolina, I studied abroad and worked in real estate in Edinburgh, Scotland. However, I returned to the Fredericksburg area where I was born and raised. I am enamored by this city’s history, charm and sense of community. Through my profession as a full time realtor, I hope to share this passion with others. Whether you are new to the area or just ready for a change, I am eager to help you on your journey to buy or sell your next home.

Lindsay Janney

ljanney@cbeva.com

540-907-2906

CBE Downtown Fredericksburg–520 William St Fredericksburg, VA 22401

BlogColdwell BankerWelcome February 3, 2017

Coldwell Banker Elite Welcomes Paul Janney

paul janney

Meet Paul

As a lifelong Fredericksburg resident, I have a wealth of knowledge about the area. After graduating from Virginia Tech in 2008, I started in the real estate industry in both the appraisal and brokerage side of the business. I continued solely into the brokerage side, gaining vast experience in both residential and commercial leasing and sales. I reside in downtown Fredericksburg with my beautiful family.

Paul Janney

(540) 809-5808

pjanney@cbeva.com

520 William St Fredericksburg, VA 22401

BlogColdwell BankerElite News February 3, 2017

Conor Breen Completes Realogy’s Leadership Program

conor leadership ascendWe are so proud of our Director of Business Development, Conor Breen, for completing the intensive 46-week Ascend: The Executive Leadership Experience program! The program is offered exclusively to Realogy Holdings Corp. brand-affiliated real estate brokerage owners to prepare the next generation of leadership to guide their businesses in the future. Conor and 38 other graduates participated in intense learning experiences to become successful future brokerage leaders by challenging them to significant growth in three core areas identified in the program’s mission statement: Leading Self. Leading Others. Leading Organizations.® The challenging Ascend curriculum combines onsite classroom sessions at Realogy’s headquarters location with online learning modules and culminates with individual case study presentations. The program engages Realogy senior leadership, real estate industry experts and current successful franchisees from all Realogy brands.

This year’s Ascend graduates, affiliated with Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, CENTURY 21®, Coldwell Banker®, ERA®, and Sotheby’s International Realty®, represent diverse market areas and company sizes from the United States and Canada. They join the 41 graduates of last year’s inaugural program in the Ascend Alumni Network, which offers structured events and continued opportunities to network. Mike Good, Realogy’s executive champion of the Ascend program commented, “Our Ascend graduates deserve praise for completing this program that will help them grow personally and professionally, while preparing them to lead their businesses to future success.”

In addition to being part of an experienced team of Realtors® dedicated to offering the most high-tech buying and selling experience to their clients, Conor is Dad to two beautiful boys as well as a dog owner, a Redskins fan, a proud CNU alumnus, a Youtuber, coffee drinker, Mad Men watcher, and Rugby player! Congratulations, Conor! We’re so proud of you!

conor