Get in on the conversation about New Communities in Hampton Roads

February 04, 2010 - Anyone looking to buy, move-up or refinance, MUST do it before the spring
of 2010. Interest rates are at an all time low. Once the government stops
purchasing mortgage-backed securities (the reason rates are where they
currently are), rates will rise. History tells us that once they start to rise
they will do so quickly and dramatically.
Mortgage Rates Rise

December 21, 2009 - Click below to see how many homebuyers are actually searching the internet before purchasing their new home.
Internet vs Newspaper

December 04, 2009 - “The data tell us this is one of the best times in recent decades to purchase a home.” Click here to see what else the market is saying.

Market Watch Ad

November 12, 2009 - The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has extended the tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence. The tax credit now applies to sales occurring on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010. However, in cases where a binding sales contract is signed by April 30, 2010, a home purchase completed by June 30, 2010 will qualify. It also authorized a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified repeat home buyers. For more information please contact the William E. Wood & Associates, New Homes Division Office at (757)318-3803. Information derived from http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

November 04, 2009 - Find out what the secret is to getting your home sold fast...faster then all the other homes on the market in your neighborhood.

BusinessWeek_MoneyMag

wzhomes: November 07, 2009 - we saw strong 1st quarter sales in 2009 - 7 solds/closings. the 2nd and 3rd brought sales for the other builders as their spec homes finally came online (40+ homes). heritage park will remain the number one subdivision in the state for several reasons - some of which: the builders are the areas best and well financed to supply the market with demand with or w/o commercial lending - and with continued construction comes consumer confidence in the subdivision. look for the same demand in december and 1st quarter of 2010!

September 02, 2009 - It’s a buyer’s market! Don’t procrastinate if you need a new home in the Hampton Roads area! The deals are only going to last as long as there is a large inventory of standing new homes. Supply and demand are an important factor in the new homes market. If you are waiting for the housing market to hit bottom before you buy, the time is now. The inventory of new homes in Hampton Roads is decreasing rapidly. With the large military presence in the Hampton Roads, the demand for housing is huge.
Military families are constantly relocating and growing in this thriving area.
If you are looking for an affordable and centrally located new home in Hampton Roads, Lifestyle Homes has 3 communities to choose from in Chesapeake.
Mayberry Meadows has the last 3 new homes available, starting in the $360’s. These homes are located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the Grassfield school district. They range from 2300 to over 2700 square feet and have 4-5 bedrooms.
The Winston Trace community is comprised of 37 large new home sites with a minimum of 1/3 acre. This elegant community is located off of Great Bridge Blvd. and is close to interstate I-64 and Route 168. There is only 1 standing home that is move-in ready in this beautiful Great Bridge community. This particular home is located on the community lake and has 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. Move in now for $364,900! Lifestyle Homes has an array of new home plans to choose from and can be modified to your specifications and built on the any of these available home sites. Build time ranges from 5 to 6 months. Choose your home site today.
The third community, Marsh Pointe Estates, is located in the Deep Creek borrow of Chesapeake and has 3 large home sites currently available. The quiet Marsh Pointe Estates community is bordered by beautiful wetlands and has a community playground and picnic area for the family to enjoy.
To view the many home plans that Lifestyle Homes has to offer, visit www.lifestylehomesva.com.

July 27, 2009 - Sandy Creek: Searching for a peaceful existence in this hectic world? Look no farther than Sandy Creek located in stunning Southampton County! Built by Towne Development Corporation, Sandy Creek offers unsurpassed value for the homeowner desiring a spacious, quality built home at an affordable price. Where else in Hampton Roads can you find a beautiful new home on 1-3 acres with prices starting at $199,900? Sandy Creek is not part of a property owners association, so there are no additional monthly fees. With a variety of home styles and an enticing community landscape, Sandy Creek is Southampton County's fastest growing new homes community!
Sandy Creek offers a country atmosphere coupled with the convenience of the amenities available in hereby Franklin, Virginia. Abundant shopping, schools, hospitals and major highways are all mere minutes away. Many of our residents work at the shipyards, military bases, hospitals and schools. Typical commutes range from 20 minutes to an hour, but are well worth the time! For incredible home prices coupled with lower taxes equal hundreds of dollars in monthly savings over other Hampton Roads communities!
Customers who visit and purchase a Sandy Creek home are looking for a new way of life. They don't envision themselves in the midst of a traditional subdivision where there is not a tree in sight and the neighbor's home hovers ten feet away. They know the rolling hills and tree lined horizon will lift their spirits after a long day at work or school. Sandy Creek homeowners understand that sometimes the simple things in life are what makes life worth living.

April 10, 2009 - Monarch Walk, a new construction, 55 and better condominium community located in Chesapeake is now selling! Pricing starts at $199,000 and floor plans range in space from 1,200 square foot ranch-style homes to 2,500 square foot two-story models that have master bedrooms available on the first floor. Monarch Walk is a gated, twin-home community. Each of the sixty-four units has a garage and is also equipped with amenities that meet the accessible design standards of the Adults with Disabilities Act such as wide doorways, adult-height counters, and lever door handles. All units are outfitted with a security system. We are located in Portsmouth, Virginia. Come by and visit today or call (757) 897-1698.

March 23, 2009 - Dreaming of a Southern Living Home in Virginia Beach? With headlines stating “Opportunity Knocks for Home Buyers”, now may be the best time to open up to the idea of living in your new dream home.

Sadler Building Corporation has been selected as the exclusive member of the Southern Living Custom Builder Program for Virginia Beach, Virginia. Sadler Building Corporation is currently offering new homes in the Heritage Park Subdivision of Virginia Beach with prices in the low 500’s.

Don’t see a floor plan that works for you? Why not look through Southern Living’s plan gallery and find one that will become your dream home?

Every builder that is endorsed as a Southern Living Custom Builder must build with superior quality and seek to give great attention to detail. To be selected, a building company must go through a series of reviews such as their reputation among local consumers and tradesmen. Further, certified Southern Living Custom Builders must demonstrate financial strength based upon a credit review with suppliers and lending institutions.

Ed Sadler, president of Sadler Building Corporation passed the review with ease. As a well established professional builder in Hampton Roads, Southern Living had no problem credentialing Ed once they spoke with the craftsmen working to construct Sadler’s fine homes as well as finding past homeowners who would have no other builder construct a home for their family.

Our recent economic corrections have caused home values to soar, particularly in the newly constructed homes in neighborhoods such as Heritage Park. Many savvy buyers have recognized the quality constructed home they can purchase and such families will be calling their Sadler Building Corporation house in Heritage Park “home”. These buyers have taken advantage of low interest rates and incredible value while working with a long time financially sound builder.

To learn more about Sadler Building Corporation visit their website at: http://www.sadlerhomes.com. To schedule your private showing of our model home, please contact Carol Lake at (757) 343-0265 or Michele Fredericks at (757) 286-1697. There really is no place like home! Let’s start building yours!

Meet the builder! Ed Sadler will be at Heritage Park on Sunday, March 29th from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.! The model is at 1973 Champion Circle, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.

March 11, 2009 - If you’re looking for a new home, now is the time to get the best buys in town. William E. Wood & Associates and I are pleased to represent Jack and Margaret Schoch, award winning builders who participate in the Hampton Roads Homearama show year after year. They are known for their quality workmanship in all of the homes they build no matter the price range. We currently have quick delivery homes for sale in Heritage Park off of Sandbridge Road in Virginia Beach as well as Vance Level and Greystone in Chesapeake. Our price range from $459,900 for a 2500 sq. ft. ranch with 3 car garage on up to $789,900 for our 5300 sq. ft. Greenwich in Heritage Park. The latter has 6 bedrooms, 2 media rooms, 5 full baths, 3 car garage and located on a culdesac with a hardwood preserve behind the .48 acre lot. WHAT A DEAL! (square footages and lot size are approximate).

Please ignore all of the negativity you hear on the news. Interest rates are the best they’ve been in years. If you have a house to sell, you may not get the same amount you may have gotten three years ago, however, you will get a FABULOUS deal on one of our homes since the builders have downsized our pricing structure. Not only have they readjusted our prices, they also entertain housing trades. We have done several this year to accommodate our buyers’ needs. Please call for details.

One of our preferred loan officers is Monarch Mortgage who works with David Hinds 757.739.5019. Monarch is locally owned and operated and offers competitive pricing. There are several lending options available including 10/1 Fixed Rate for 10 years – 5.375% amortized - 30 years – 1 Point and 1 Loan Origination Fee – 20% down based on sales and 5/1 Fixed Rate for 5 years – 4.875% amortized – amortized 30 years – 1 Point and l Loan Origination Fee – 20% down based on sales price (Rates and Terms are subject to change on a daily basis).
These are the lowest rates in years so if you’re ready to move up, do it now.

We firmly believe the housing market is on the upswing and will improve in the near future. After all we sell the AMERICAN DREAM. Remember the term – If you snooze, you lose. Come on out and look at our inventory at Heritage Park , Vance Level and Greystone. We also have a resale home available in South Shore Estates – 2129 Bierce Drive - $459,900. This is a trade for some wonderful folks who bought in Heritage Park. Let us help you!

We look forward to selling you your AMERICAN DREAM.

March 03, 2009 - Visit Heritage Park and see what Cohen Homes has to offer…choose your “dream home” with your “dream price”! Do not make the mistake of falling in love with only the price fall in love with the home…a Cohen custom home.

Why Buy at Heritage Park…the New “Hilltop” of Virginia Beach?
•Heritage Park is surrounded by new, thriving areas—superior shopping, great beaches, and an immense selection of dining.
•Heritage Park benefits from the prominent Kellam School District including the new Three Oaks Elementary and Princess Anne Middle.
•In the Heritage Park subdivision, you can enjoy open green areas, water ponds and family-friendly neighborhood.

Why Buy Now?

•Interest rates are at a 37 year low.
•As the new home inventory declines, demand will rise and so will prices.
•It will cost less to build now rather than later—the housing demand in Virginia Beach is actually growing.

Why Buy with Cohen Homes?

•Cohen Homes is noted for keen attention to detail and comfortable design elements to fit “your” lifestyle.
•Ken Cohen’s 40 years of home-building experience will bring a comfort to your custom-home decision.
•Ken is an award winning builder and has taken numerous awards for his nine
Homearama entries!
•Interested in the benefits of an “EarthCraft” or “Geen” home? Cohen Homes can/will tailor “Green” features to your liking.

February 17, 2009 - Rose Garden Estates is a beautiful enclave of 30 estates nestled among shady trees in the heart of Chesapeake, VA. A brand new community of craftsman style homes built energy efficient with exceptional quality, attention to detail and the charm of times past.
There isn’t a more convenient location in all of Hampton Roads! Minutes from bustling Greenbrier mall and all of its many amenities, minutes from the interstate, intercoastal waterway and a plethora of new shopping centers and fine establishments. Convenience doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a peaceful, tranquil lifestyle and high quality of living. Chesapeake has great schools, many open areas, parks and an abundance of recreational activities for individuals and families to enjoy. Many people prefer to live in Chesapeake, where they’re purchasing power is greater and the commute to many other cities is short.
Rose Garden Estates is certain to be one of the most successful communities due to its location, quality construction and design and its affordable pricing.
Tascera Development wants you to feel confident when purchasing one of their homes. They offer an HW 2-10 warranty, not offered by many builders.
There are 5 extraordinary floor plans to select from. One level living with a bonus room over the garage and two story plans are offered with 3- 5 bedrooms ranging in 1,929 to 2,929 square feet. Some plans give you a master bedroom on the first floor. Our prices start in the low $300’s including your lot!
Some of the outstanding standard features include 9ft ceilings, beautiful hardwood floors in the entry foyer and formal dining room, natural gas heat, structured wiring, tray ceilings in the master suite and dining room, garden tubs, raised vanities, 42” kitchen cabinets, upgraded appliance package, 30 year architectural shingle roof and 1-2 car garages!
Closing cost assistance is offered when using one of our preferred lenders!
On new builds the build time is 4-5 months. We currently have a completed Willowcreek model ready to move in today! Our Willowcreek plan features 2330 sq. ft. of one level living with a bonus room or 4th bedroom over the 2 car garage.
Call me today to see this lovely home or to view any of our plans and specs. You may also go to www.rosegardenva.com.
Tascera Development is also building the same plans down in Elizabeth City. For further information go to www.creeksidefarmsnc.com
If you need help relocating or selling your current home I can assist you. Please give me a call or send me an email. I am looking forward to hearing from you and helping you with all of your real estate needs.

Sharon Ryan, Realtor
William E. Wood and Associates
New Homes Division
Site Manager for Rose Garden Estates
Licensed in Virginia and Florida
757-478-0118
sharonryan@williamewood.com

February 13, 2009 - Have you been looking for a community with large home sites, convenient to shopping and entertainment, open space between homes and a builder who is flexible on changing our house plans or letting you choose your own? Well, look no further. Executive Homes in Victoria Park in Virginia Beach has all the above and then some!

Victoria Park is nestled in the historic courthouse district in Virginia Beach just west on North Landing Road in the sought after “23456” zip code. The community rests on 66 acres with 32 acres of open space comprising of walking trails, park benches, 3 lakes and covered picnic tables with barbeque grills. Each home site is a minimum of 18,000 sq ft giving each home a spacious yard and privacy from the adjoining neighbors. With distinctive design features, Victoria Park offers a mixture of exterior finishes including stone, brick and hardie plank. This gives each home an unique flair not found in other communities.

Executive Homes was founded by Betty Ridgeway in 1986. She attributes its success to the team of subcontractors that have been working with her since the start of her business. Everyone takes pride in their workmanship and it shows.
Executive Homes philosophy is to build a home as if we were going to live in it ourselves. With an attention to detail, quality materials, and fine home design, each home built by Executive Homes is unique in its own way. With an array of house plans to choose from, Executive Homes offers each buyer the opportunity to make it “their own”. Some feel craftsmanship no longer exists, however a tour through our homes will show otherwise.
Betty was an associate broker in the real estate sales business, working closely with buyers and builders for several years. She decided to branch out on her own to become one of the few women builders in the Tidewater area. Mark Neumann, a custom framing contractor with 25 years of experience, came on board in the late 1990’s. Their partnership and diversity have also been instrumental in Executive homes continued success and growth as one of Hampton Roads premier builders.
Come experience what Executive homes has to offer in Victoria Park. Our model home is open daily from 1-4 pm or by appointment. To view some of the plans Executive homes has in our portfolio, visit www.executivehomescorp.net. For additional information or to schedule a private showing, please contact Kathy Nelms at 757-639-2764 or knelms@williamewood.com.

January 30, 2009 - On the Today show this morning, real estate correspondent, Barbara Corcoran, presented a segment on “Ten Real Estate Myths Busted” which spoke to some of the issues Buyers may face when going to buy a home. Go to http://www.msbnc.com and then click on the “Today Show” and play the video…it is great! It is designed to speak directly to the consumer who may be in search of a new home.

January 12, 2009 - LOCATION!!! LOCATION!!! LOCATION!!! has always been the #1 reason to purchase a home in a certain neighborhood. Well, Heritage Park is that location!! It is the #1 selling neighborhood in Virginia Beach. This is proven by the number of building permits issued by the City, and the number of new residents moving in monthly. The South East section of Virginia Beach has been growing leaps and bounds. New shopping centers with high volume stores, restaurants, medical facilities, and the best rated schools are some of the reasons families are moving to this new area to live. Other attractions are the very popular Sandbridge Beach, and top golf courses that are very close by. There is also the open country feeling surrounding Heritage Park. Taking a ride in the country on the weekend is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the daily work week. You can even stop at the local vegetable stands and purchase home grown vegetables and fruit another good healthy reason the choose Heritage Park.

When entering Heritage Park, you get the feeling of privacy and spaciousness because the homes are located well off Sandbridge Road with green area and water features at the entrance and throughout the neighborhood. You will also get a very warm feeling when you see children out playing, couples strolling their babies or walking their dog.

The custom builders that have made Heritage Park a very desirable and attractive place to call home have worked very hard to make each house unique therefore, no home is the same. And, they are all represented by William E. Wood & Associates, "The Best in the Business".

I am personally proud to represent WZ Homes in Heritage Park. We offer quality new home construction with a list of standard features that most people would consider upgrades. We provide the service of a project coordinator to assist our clients through every step of the building process. Our builder, Erik Zimmerman, and our superintendent are at the building site every day supervising and are always available to meet with our Clients. Our promise is to provide a professional, quality building experience so you can enjoy your new home.

WZ Homes currently has three exceptional inventory homes ready for occupancy. They range in price from $600,000 to $750,000. One of these homes even has an in-law suite. We will also build your plan. If you are looking for a new home in this area, Heritage Park is the place to be!! Please visit us at WZ Homes.com or stop by our model on Champion Circle.

January 09, 2009 - McQ Builders of Woodbridge Pointe wishes you a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Starting a New Year is always an exciting time! It is a time to reflect on the past and a time to look to the future. It’s also a great time to plan for a New Home. With mortgage rates low and housing prices more affordable, McQ Builders of Woodbridge Pointe is ready to assist you with your buying decision.

Our homes are located in the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Woodbridge Pointe offers convenience to schools, interstates, shopping and military bases.

There are a wide variety of floor plans and home sites priced from the $330’s, making Woodbridge Pointe affordable for many buyers. We offer homes with 4 to 6 bedrooms from 2,300 to 3,000 square feet. Our homes offer lovely amenities, and McQ Builders of Woodbridge Pointe believes customer satisfaction is the number one priority.

If you are looking for affordable, quality construction, stop by our model home, visit our website at http://mcqbuilders.com and take a tour to make an informed decision about your future investment.

Timing is everything! Location is Key! McQ Builders of Woodbridge Pointe understands this concept. For the best location, affordable prices and outstanding features visit us today we will be here to welcome you.

December 30, 2008 - Being an intimate size and neighborhood of only forty-nine select, single family homes in Portsmouth, Virginia, Kings Gate Crossing is an extremely popular new home community for today’s prospective buyer. Conveniently located within 1 ¾ miles of Interstate #264 at the Victory Boulevard exit, residents are in comfortable commuting distance to work anywhere in Portsmouth, Virginia or any of its surrounding sister cities of Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach. Potential buyers are impressed by the lushly landscaped entrance along Airline Boulevard that features dual, brick-columned entrance signs with gold lettering, bermed flowerbeds with mature trees and shrubs, as well as a combination of brick pillows and traditional fencing, designed to give this Portsmouth, Virginia community a charming and well-established atmosphere.

Each of the forty-nine homes within Kings Gate Crossing is located on one of its only three streets. Vehicular traffic is kept at a minimum making Kings Gate Crossing a safe neighborhood for children to play. There are sidewalks for pleasant walks throughout the community providing an easy stroll to the children’s playground area.

Home prices in Portsmouth, Virginia’s Kings Gate Crossing range from $245,000 to $285,000, for new 3 and 4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath and 3 ½ bath single-family homes with two car garages. There are a variety of beautiful floor plans, offering two story and ranch style homes that include various exterior design elevations from which to select. Buyers looking in Portsmouth, Virginia for a new single-family home with an open feeling and lots of natural light will appreciate the nine foot ceilings, abundant use of windows and “open wall space” between the living areas. Gas fireplaces with a traditional wooden mantle piece and a marble hearth and surround add warmth to the living areas. For the chef in the family, your kitchen is a pleasant culinary environment with upgraded 42’ cabinets providing abundant storage space, plenty of countertop workspace, stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar area, as well as a place for table and chairs nestled beside windows that overlook the backyard and the deck for outdoor entertaining. Bedrooms are nicely sized with plenty of closet space throughout. All master bedrooms offer lighted walk-in closets with lots of wall mounted space-saver shelving.

From the Kings Gate Crossing neighborhood, the new Victory Crossing retail center is an easy 1 ½ mile drive. This beautiful, well-planned Portsmouth shopping district features 48 businesses, including national and regional companies, such as Lowes Home Improvement Building Products, Farm Fresh Grocery Store, Dollar Tree Store, Ruby Tuesday’s Restaurant, Radio Shack Electronics, Bank of America, and many more clothing and home accessory stores.

If outdoor recreational activities are to your liking, Portsmouth, Virginia’s city park is only a twelve minute drive from Kings Gate Crossing. Residents love the convenience and the amenities that this 93 acre, newly renovated, family-oriented park has to offer. Open year round from dawn to dusk with free admission and parking, this Portsmouth, Virginia park offers a 3-pier boat ramp, sailboat launch area, a small watercraft beach, a 9-hole golf learning center with a 30-station lighted driving range and a natural putting course, state of the art playgrounds, lighted tennis courts, lovely gardens, shelters with picnic tables and grills, all with a magnificent Portsmouth, Virginia waterfront view.

As a prospective homebuyer at Kings Gate Crossing you are only a 20 minute drive to the historic, quaint seaport of Portsmouth, Virginia. Here at “Olde Towne” you will find great old buildings with an ambience that cannot be compared. On High Street, the street front is wonderfully designed, featuring a very wide, walkable setting that is tree-lined with a variety of coffee shops, restaurants, unique shops and galleries.

Yes, the forty-nine home community of Kings Gate Crossing located in the city of Portsmouth, Virginia is appealing to many buyers looking for a well-built, affordable, single-family home in a real neighborhood setting. Kings Gate Crossing in Portsmouth is developed and built by Pace Construction and Development Company with over 35 years of homebuilding experience throughout the various cities of the Tidewater Area. As a locally owned and operated company, Pace Construction works diligently to build outstanding value into each home that the company builds. Through careful planning, quality materials, and fine craftsmanship each home at Kings Gate Crossing in Portsmouth, Virginia offers homebuyers the highest quality house for the dollar.

If you are seeking a home in the city of Portsmouth, Virginia, look no further than Kings Gate Crossing. Check out the homes in Kings Gate Crossing if you are considering a single-family home in an intimate community in Portsmouth, Virginia!

December 23, 2008 - Sandy Creek: Searching for a peaceful existence in this hectic world? Look no farther than Sandy Creek located in stunning Southampton County! Built by Towne Development Corporation, Sandy Creek offers unsurpassed value for the homeowner desiring a spacious, quality built home at an affordable price. Where else in Hampton Roads can you find a beautiful new home on 1-3 acres with prices starting at $199,900? Sandy Creek is not part of a property owners association, so there are no additional monthly fees. With a variety of home styles and an enticing community landscape, Sandy Creek is Southampton County's fastest growing new homes community!

Sandy Creek offers a country atmosphere coupled with the convenience of the amenities available in hereby Franklin, Virginia. Abundant shopping, schools, hospitals and major highways are all mere minutes away. Many of our residents work at the shipyards, military bases, hospitals and schools. Typical commutes range from 20 minutes to an hour, but are well worth the time! For incredible home prices coupled with lower taxes equal hundreds of dollars in monthly savings over other Hampton Roads communities!

Customers who visit and purchase a Sandy Creek home are looking for a new way of life. They don't envision themselves in the midst of a traditional subdivision where there is not a tree in sight and the neighbor's home hovers ten feet away. They know the rolling hills and tree lined horizon will lift their spirits after a long day at work or school. Sandy Creek homeowners understand that sometimes the simple things in life are what makes life worth living.

Sandy "Creekers" appreciate the closeness of small town living: Neighborly gestures of help when you least expect it. A stroll down Main St. window shopping with an ice cream cone in hand. Bluegrass bands at the local Dairy Queen. The county fair. Impeccable service at the corner hardware. An easy ride to the grocery store. Folks at the bank or the drugstore who actually know your name. Folks who truly care about the quality of service the quality of life.

At Sandy Creek, a storybook childhood awaits! Children can run and romp, ride bikes or fly a kite. They'll experience the quiet beauty of watching a doe and her babies in the local pastures and see the hawk on the wing. The night sky will amaze and entertain with the brilliance of stars. The occasional snowfall will delight children of all ages. Everyday brings a new source of inspiration.

From the moment I visited this new development, I knew I could understand and identify with the people who would call this "home". I could live here. For me, that says a lot. I am a country girl at heart, never more at home than surrounded by the beauty of a farming community. To have the opportunity to help guide the families of Sandy Creek in their search for their dream is truly an honor. And I think when they see the light in my eyes, the light that tells them I know and understand their goals and desires they know they have arrived at the right place - at the right time.

In closing, I will leave you with this thought:

The creative, inspirational author Martin Buxbaum said: "Home is where we tie one end of the thread of life."

And there is no better place to begin to weave this intricate tapestry we call "Life" than here at Sandy Creek.

December 23, 2008 - Heritage Park! The fastest growing community in Virginia Beach priced from $539,900. Let me tell you why. You know what they say home is where the heart is.

Real Estate…it has always been location, location, location. Heritage Park has location plus so much more to offer. Located in Southern Virginia Beach, Heritage Park offers to those who wish to move up to an all brick community, the feeling that you have arrived without the snob effect. This is truly where your neighbors are neighborly, the kids grow up together and where you will perhaps find your next best friend. Heritage Park offers nine quality custom builders, each with their unique floor plans to suit your family’s individual needs. There are no cookie cutter homes here! What more could you ask for? It is an array of opportunities that await you.

The concept of the community of Heritage Park is simply amazing. It maintains spacious common ground areas that all residents may use and none of the homes back up to each other. Add to that, walking trails, lakeside views, outstanding schools and a formal entranceway. Heritage Park does maintain a Homeowners Association at a value of $35.00 monthly. If you have been out there looking for a new home, I am sure you have seen the HOA fees for $100 and up. For what?

Heritage Park is located less than five minutes from the quiet locals favorite beach of Sandbridge in Virginia Beach. It is also situated within five minutes of Red Mill Commons, an upscale selection of stores including the larger Office Max, Target, Home Depot, multiple banking and restaurants, etc. There are three major golf courses located within a ten-minute drive of your new home as well. The famous Virginia Beach boardwalk is nearby as well where there is a plethora of entertainment for you.

What do you want? That plus more? No Mortgage? I have avenues for you to investigate with me for your first six months to be free. If you have a home to sell, speak with me directly at (757) 472-4000. I have a full service staff and of course I am working with the “Best in the Business, William E. Wood & Assoc., Realtors.” I have been proud to be affiliated with William E. Wood & Assoc. since 1994. We are a relationship oriented real estate company whose motto is “we are here to serve you.”

For the last fourteen years, I have represented Gary Caruana of Caruana Homes. The quality of a well crafted home stands alone. Yet, Gary stands behind it. He leads you through the full warranty process that comes with each of his homes. His staff and team of craftsmen consists of individuals who have been with him for 20 to 30 years. Like a well-oiled machine, they continue to produce his specialty-the Caruana Ranch. Our homes start at 2,800 square feet, up to 4,200 square feet with some sixteen designs in house. Gary also offers elegant two stories with master bedrooms up or master bedrooms down. In the past we have produced for our clients master bedrooms up and down. Gary’s motto is “we build to your plans or our plans on your land or our land.” For individuals who like to create their own plan, we have an in-house architect that will meet with you at no charge. We also offer an interior decorator to help you with your color selections, which is all part of our incredible service package. Throughout the process, you will have direct communications with Gary and his staff that will afford you the clarity you seek in building your new home.

There are no unwanted surprises here. Let’s face it I have heard all the war stories where families were left unattended in the building process. Perhaps you have had that experience? If so, I understand. I ask that you understand this. YOU WILL NOT find that when building your new home with Gary Caruana. This will be the home that you will be proud of for years to come. Gary’s homes over the years have held the highest resale values in the communities he has built in since the 1970’s. How? Working with the same people over and over again, consistently, such as, framers, electricians, brick masons, trim carpenters, the 37 subcontractors it takes us to build a home. Gary has found the best and maintains them on his payroll.

It’s the whole ball of wax here! You want location, you want value, you want lifestyle, you want a return investment for your valued dollar – it’s all at Heritage Park in a home built by Gary Caruana. Location, location, location. For Caruana Homes that equals location, quality of craftsmanship and lifestyle. Visit our website at http://www.caruanahomes.com and take tours of our exciting floor plans.

Here’s where the heart is, where is yours?

November 20, 2008 - As we wind down 2008, we will certainly put this year down as one of the most challenging for the Hampton Roads real estate market. Like the rest of the nation, we have gone through a correction over the last couple of years and now are on our way to a recovery according to many economists “in the know”. The Hampton Roads real estate market has always had a certain amount of cushion due to the many strong economic factors necessary to maintain stability such as the strong military presence in our area, the related civil service and defense contracts that support the military, including our ports and related industries as well as our job growth and economic opportunity.

Unlike some other national markets, our market is relatively good. For example, the Hampton Roads real estate market was up both in units and sales in September and they increased compared to the same month last year. Overall the Hampton Roads real estate market inventory has been decreasing since August and the median sales price of $230,000 is just 2.5% lower than it was compared to 2007.

Even though the national mortgage banking crisis has caused some turmoil, the interest rates are around 6% and there is money available to lend. Given the choices of homes in the Hampton Roads real estate market, it is the right time to buy a house. The home you buy is the one sure asset you can find security in during such a complex economic time!