PAM DENT

Jump into Greener Pastures


434-960-0161
[email protected]

Beginner’s Guide to Basic Horse Care

Beginner’s Guide to Basic Horse Care

You finally found the horse farm of your dreams among the many Charlottesville horse farms you had to choose from. You’ve got your eyes on the horses you’ll get and the equipment you’ll need. Now that you’re ready to build the home of your dreams, it’s time to stock up on horse care knowledge. It can be overwhelming at first for beginners so here are a few things that will help you ease into basic horse care.

Beginner’s Guide to Basic Horse Care - Charlottesville Horse Farms Tips

Regular exercise

Just like any other living creature, your horses will need regular exercise. Allow them to graze every day. Let them move around freely. Make sure you also have the necessary shade they’ll need during the day in case it gets too hot for them while they’re grazing. Horses have limited movement inside their stalls. Keep them healthy by allowing them to exercise regularly. Also, it is very important to have safe horse appropriate fencing in good repair.

Keeping your surroundings horse-friendly

Charlottesville golf homes are kept in mint condition for the best golfing experience all the time. The same should apply to your horse farm. Survey every corner of your farm especially parts where horses graze, walk around and stay. It is important that you’re confident that there are no hazards to your horses within your property. You want to make sure that the trees surrounding your farm are safe for your horses. Avoid red maple trees because these have toxins that could affect horses’ blood cells. Oak trees are also hazardous because they contain tannins that could cause abdominal pain to your horses.

Manure Management

Manure will definitely pile up in your Charlottesville horse farm if you do not have a good management system. You may find a farmer who will have good use for it such as fertilizer. Devise a system that will allow easy disposal of manure and avoid manure piling up on your property and harboring flies. Many farm owners will purchase a manure spreader and spread the manure on the fields, thus providing a natural fertilizer.

Cleanliness of stable and stalls

Aside from cleaning manure, you need to clean the stable and stalls everyday. This will help keep your horses healthy and happy.

Veterinary care

Nothing beats expert care of course. Make sure that you have a go-to veterinarian in case your horses get sick. Your veterinarian can also help in guiding you with proper horse nutrition, as well as a regular program of vaccinations and worming.

Owning a horse farm in Charlottesville VA, there’s a lot more to learn about caring for horses. You’ll be an expert in no time! To help you feel more confident about caring for your horses, visit www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com today for more information.

Call me, Pam Dent today at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Top 3 Architectural Styles for Your Next Charlottesville VA Home

Top 3 Architectural Styles for Your Next Charlottesville VA Home

Charlottesville is a town where the past and present make a great combination. The evidence is in the mixture of traditional and contemporary styles of the homes that you can find here.

You have to come and see the place for yourself and experience the breathtaking view of these architectural masterpieces.

Top 3 Architectural Styles for Your Next Charlottesville VA Home

Homes in Charlottesville are made of different materials, infused with different styles and techniques unique to each architect and designer.

Many have been around for years, carrying with them a rich history that is a common characteristic of many Charlottesville homes.

Discover in the list below some of the top architectural styles you may want to consider for your next home.

  1. Colonial

    The most common home style that you will find in Charlottesville and Central Virginia is colonial.The area is steeped in tradition and history which sets the stage for a colonial style home.

    Many of these homes are brick and two story. Some of the larger historic homes will have large front porches with white columns.

  2. Craftsman

    One of the most popular style in newer homes is the craftsman style. These homes may be either one level or two story. You will often see stone and other natural materials used as accents particularly on the exterior.

    The inside trim details such as the crown molding is of a very simple design. These homes give a very clean, elegant appearance.

  3. Farmhouse

    Charlottesville horse farms are among the most common type of property in town.

    Charlottesville offers everything a horse farm can ever want and need in order to thrive such as vast pastures and great weather. These farmhouses often have chimneys and gable roof.

    These homes are also never short on space. They often come with generous spaces in the backyard enough to take care of horses and other farm animals.

    The two story design and welcoming front porch are distinguishing features and each home has its own unique addition to the traditional porch such as swing-type seats and potted plants.

It’s definitely a splendid experience walking through the streets of homes for sale in Charlottesville VA. There’s an abundance of unique, cozy and beautiful homes in town and a lively community.

For more information and inspiration on different architectural home styles in Charlottesville, visit this website today www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com.

Call me today, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

4 Essential Pieces of Equipment You Should Have on Your Charlottesville VA Horse Farm

4 Essential Pieces of Equipment You Should Have on Your Charlottesville VA Horse Farm

Managing and maintaining a horse farm is not an easy task, however, it is something that every horse owner should incorporate into their daily routine to keep their horses in tip-top shape. Getting all the help you need to maintain your Charlottesville VA horse farm is certainly beneficial; and this starts by having the right equipment around.

4 Essential Pieces of Equipment You Should Have on Your Charlottesville VA Horse Farm

Here are some essential pieces of equipment that you’ll need to have in your farm.

The right vehicle

Transportation for your horses is one of the first things that you should think about. The number of horses you will move and the distance you will generally travel will determine the kind of truck and trailer you need to buy. Trailers can range in size from a two horse tag along trailer to a 5 horse head to head gooseneck to a tractor trailer. While a two horse can be pulled easily by a Subarban or a ¾ ton pick up truck, bigger trailers would mean getting a truck with higher towing capacity—something that you should discuss with your car dealership.

Stall fans

You want to make sure that your horses get the best level of comfort in your horse farm in Charlottesville VA and ventilation is important. Stalls can get a little bit warm and stuffy, so installing stall fans will keep a steady flow of air into and out of the stable. The right kind of stall fan should be installed in your barn. Simple house fans or box fans do not have their motors sealed and can be permeated by dust. This can cause the motor to malfunction which may lead to a fire. You should always use commercial-grade fans wherever possible. Exhaust fans in the loft or peak will help keep the barn comfortable in the summer months.

Handcarts

Yet another basic tool is the handcart. This load carrying equipment is very easy to use, convenient to store, and requires almost no amount of maintenance (except for washing it on occasion). The market is filled with amazing options. Many are designed so that they can be moved easily even on uneven ground. All you need to do is find the one with a size that is enough to transport all the materials you move to and fro on the farm.

Manure Spreader

In taking good care of the entire horse farm, it is important not to forget about the soil. Keeping the soil healthy is also a part of keeping your Charlottesville VA equestrian property in its best condition. A fantastic idea to contribute to the health of the soil is the use of a manure spreader. Since manure is a great source of fertilizer for crop production, its proper management can be used to cultivate feeds for your horses. And of course you will need the proper size tractor to pull your manure spreader and mow the fields.

Having a well-maintained horse farm will ensure that your horses are in their best condition―and having the right equipment around is the first step. For more information on horse farms and other equestrian properties for sale in Central Virginia, please visit, www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com.

Call me, Pam Dent, today at (434) 960-0161. I have the professional and expert knowledge of the local housing market in Charlottesville including equestrian properties, golf communities, and other homes for sale across Central Virginia. It is my pleasure to guide you through the exciting journey toward finding the home of your dreams.

Welcome Fall with these Fun Events in Charlottesville VA

Welcome Fall with these Fun Events in Charlottesville VA

Half a year has gone by and there are still plenty of things to do near homes for sale in Charlottesville VA. Aside from the fall season, everyone is also gearing up for the end of the year. To make 2015 even more memorable, here are a few other things you could add to your list of fun and exciting activities this fall:

Welcome Fall with these Fun Events in Charlottesville VA

Charlottesville Fall Classic – Half and 10K Marathons

Brought to you by the Bad to the Bone Endurance Sports team, Charlottesville welcomes all runners to experience one of the best running trail and road-running events in the country near Charlottesville horse farms. The fall season brings about the perfect conditions while the path to the finish line gives runners the challenge that will test their limits. Happening on the 11th of October, both the half and 10K marathons will start and end in Downtown Charlottesville. What are you waiting for? Sign up and start training. Get chance to get fit while enjoying the breathtaking views of Charlottesville.

BRHBA Parade of Homes

It’s your chance to see the best of Charlottesville golf homes! During the first 2 weekends of October, the Blue Ridge Home Builders Association (BRHBA) welcomes the public to the many wonderful newly constructed homes in town. Through the leadership of the BRHBA, a solid industry and network for builders and developers has been established to help in the growth of real estate in the area. Marvel at the sight of different Charlottesville homes. This is also a great opportunity to get inspiration in planning and building your own home. You’ll also be delighted to see what local builders have to offer as they exhibit their masterpieces.

Antique Car Show

The month of October in Charlottesville won’t be complete without a weekend trip to the Wild Wolf Brewing Company. Every Sunday, an antique car show awaits you! Soak up some sun while appreciating a display of classic cars and enjoying a selection of fantastic food.

There are so many fun events and happening surrounding homes for sale in Charlottesville VA. For more ideas and inspirations, visit this website today www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com.

Call me today, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Top 5 Kitchen Trends for Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Top 5 Kitchen Trends for Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

There is a variety styles of homes for sale in Charlottesville VA. Many homeowners enjoy decorating and personalizing every part of their home.

A particular part of the house that gets immediate attention is the kitchen. Since this is where meals are prepared, the kitchen has the ability to bring families and friends together.

Top 5 Kitchen Trends for Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

If you want to make some improvements to your kitchen, here are some of the latest kitchen trends:

Innovative storage and functionality

You will be amazed at how storage design and functionality has been transformed today. Designs are now more creative, more contemporary and most of all more efficient. The aesthetic aspect of innovative storage nowadays comes with well-thought out designs that feature ease of use.

Automation

Technology has also definitely made its way into Charlottesville horse farms. Automation is  finding ways to make daily tasks even simpler, which in turn saves time and energy. Automated soap dispensers, faucets and light fixtures are examples of these time and energy saving devices. The future of automation is very promising; the possibilities in the kitchen are limitless.

Fixtures that stand out

Today, the kitchen is not only seen as a place where food is cooked but it is a place where one can relax and spend time with family. It is a place to explore hobbies in cooking or maybe baking. One way to make your kitchen stand out is to use bold fixtures. Along with the birth of new and creative storage solutions, fixtures have developed into designs that are unusual in size and shape but still serve their purpose well.

Gray

If Charlottesville golf homes are surrounded by the color green,  kitchen trends today are choosing the color gray to decorate contemporary kitchens. Many of these kitchens would have the owners’ choice of gray primarily on the walls and on countertops. The rest of the kitchen would follow the same theme coordinating the appliances, fixtures and kitchen tools.

Contrasting colors

Aside from the color gray, contrasting colors have also become very popular in kitchens. One of the most popular combinations would be black and white. This kind of trend really makes the kitchen stand out. It also keeps the kitchen’s design very simple yet sophisticated.

These are just some of the top kitchen trends today. There are more trends out there that might suit your taste. Get more ideas for homes for sale in Charlottesville VA at this website www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com.

Call me, Pam Dent today at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Top Summer Activities for Kids Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Top Summer Activities for Kids Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA


Children playing under the sun among the many beautiful Charlottesville VA homes for sale means only one thing – summer vacation is in session. For most children, summer is the best season of all because this is the time of the year they get to take time off from school and just have fun. Summer is also the perfect season for different kinds of activities. This is the time of year when they get to learn about different things through activities they prefer more instead of simply learning in a classroom. This town has a lot of these activities to offer to the community. There’s always something exciting and interesting to do.

Top Summer Activities for Kids Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Putt-Putt Place: Miniature Golf

Charlottesville golf homes are very much popular in this part of the state. Huge golf courses might be too overwhelming for the young and curious. Summer promises a number of beautiful and sunny days. These would be the best days to be out playing at the Putt-Putt Place. This is a miniature golf course that caters even to very young ones. Children would definitely love to come and play here while learning a few essential skills in the sport of golf.

Virginia Discovery Museum

The Virginia Discovery Museum is a wonderful place for children to get creative and imaginative. This museum was the 2014 Charlottesville Family Favorite Award Winner for being such a spectacular place for children and their parents to explore the world. The museum offers hands on exhibits that really engage the children. They’ll be exposed to enjoyable exhibits on arts and science. It’s also a great place for them to start learning more about history and culture. The variety of activities that the children can enjoy here include a toy bakery, farm produce and a car creating station.

Charlottesville/Albemarle 4-H Program

This is a town that is known for equestrian pursuits and thus the place where you’ll find the loveliest Charlottesville horse farms. In allowing children to fully experience life in their area, the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service has developed the “Charlottesville/Albermarle 4-H Program.” Through their program, they are able to widen children’s perspective and enrich their lives through meaningful projects, camping, workshops and programs. Some of the Central Virginia 4-H clubs are focused on equestrian activities and offer the opportunity for children to learn about all aspects of horses while having fun with their peers.

There is still plenty of time. For more information on what’s going on around homes for sale in Charlottesville VA, visit this site: www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com. You’ll be glad to see relevant information about children’s summer activities too.

Looking to purchase a horse farm? Check out my Buyer’s Checklist for more info!

Call me today, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Top Places for Your Events Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Top Places for Your Events Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA


Looking for a place near homes for sale in Charlottesville VA to host your next event? No need to look further because the city is proud of its wide selection of venues for different kinds of events. We have listed for you 3 of the top choices in the city. Find out about the unique histories behind these venues and various factors that contribute to their top placing.

Top Places for Your Events Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

John Paul Jones Arena

The University of Virginia is definitely at the top among the numerous institutions that Charlottesville is proud of. Aside from the quality education that the university upholds, it is a famous place because of its history as well as all of its facilities. One of these would be the John Paul Jones Arena. Paul Tudor Jones II is a 1976 graduate of the school who committed $35 million for the establishment of the arena that is now the home of the University of Virginia’s both men and women’s basketball teams. Named after his father who is also a graduate of the university and loved basketball very much, this arena has served not only basketball games but also banquets, concerts and various events. The arena can hold up to 200 vendors and also around 600 people for a reception. The event Services Department is the best at what it does in making every event memorable and amazing.

 

Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyard

Another venue you cannot miss around Charlottesville golf homes is the Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyard. It’s a fantastic venue if you’re looking for a place with an amazing food, wine bar and view. The interiors are spacious and cozy. There is a rustic feel to the ambiance which gives the venue even more character. The best part about his venue is its surroundings. There’s nothing like the breathtaking view that the Pippin Hill Farm can offer. They also offer an excellent selection of wine and food perfect for any occasion.

 

Boar’s Head Inn

Charlottesville horse farms would definitely be among the many factors that draw people to this part of the country. In addition to the rich history of the town, the well-known University of Virginia and basically being a wonderful place to live along the east coast, Charlottesville is a city that is loved by many. If you’re looking for a setting that will make your event even more memorable, Charlottesville is also very proud to have The Boar’s Head Inn among its many options. This is a 573-acre resort that features 175 rooms, Four-Diamond dining, a luxury spa, well-equipped sports club, tennis, squash and championship golf. The inn itself has a lot to offer that will contribute to making your event one of a kind. The Boar’s Head offers spaces as well as a conference center that can be rented for weddings, gatherings, family reunions, retreats and seminars. They provide complete service including planners, support staff and kitchen staff for all their events. An added perk is how this place is surrounded by other fantastic places to visit such as the Blue Ridge Mountains, Monticello and numerous breweries and wineries.

 

Can’t wait to get started on planning your event near homes for sale in Charlottesville VA? You’ll be delighted to find out more information about these places and everything else about Charlottesville. Visit this website, www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com, for more information.

 

Call me today, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Top 4 Swimming Destinations Near Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Top 4 Swimming Destinations Near Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Summer near homes for sale in Charlottesville VA would never be complete without having a trip to the perfect swimming destination. Well known for its magnificent horse farms, wineries and golf homes, this town is also home to a number of amazing swimming areas. If you love swimming during the summer, you will definitely love these places found around Charlottesville.

Top 4 Swimming Destinations Near Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Chris Greene Lake Park

If there’s one lake locals in Charlottesville would recommend for a swimming destination, Chris Greene Lake would definitely be on top of the list. Chris Greene Lake Park is a 120-acre park that has 62 acres of water. Locals rave about the pleasant drive they always have on their way to Chris Greene. If you’re not in the mood for a swim, you could definitely bring along a book and a mat for a relaxing afternoon at the park area. The natural waters and cool temperature of the lake is perfect for anyone who would love a leisurely swim in the middle of a warm summer day.

Blue Hole

Have you ever been to a watering hole you’ll never forget? The Blue Hole is one of the places you won’t regret visiting when in Charlottesville over the summer. All it takes is a nice hike along the Moormans River trail to get to this hidden gem. It’s one of the most refreshing waters you’ll ever experience. Just being in the middle of the Blue Hole would make you appreciate the beauty of nature. Many often visit the Blue Hole for a peaceful and calming swim. The small waterfalls found here add to the beauty of the place.

James River

Living in Charlottesville golf homes is a great way for health-conscious people to stay in shape through outdoor activities. For those who want to experience additional exciting outdoor activities, Charlottesville has James River. A refreshing way to spend warm summer days is tubing through the flowing waters of James River. The water of this river flows through the Blue Ridge Mountains, a fantastic destination for hiking. The light rapids along the James River is just perfect for tubing. This historic river in Charlottesville can really take you on an adventurous ride. There are plenty of options when it comes to water activities in James River. You can enjoy canoeing and rafting here if tubing is not on your list. Kayaking is another well-loved activity. Guests are also welcome to stay and enjoy camping overnight.

Mint Springs Valley Park

If you think Charlottesville horse farms are spacious, try spending a day at the Mint Springs Valley Park. This park has 504 land acres and 8 water acres that can be visited from 7 in the morning until dark. If you have a Virginia State Fishing License, you can definitely enjoy fishing for channel catfish, largemouth bass and sunfish. This is another natural setting that’s perfect for swimming. In addition to swimming, visitors also have access to a playground, a lake trail, hiking trails and picnic shelters.

Swimming is one of the many fun filled activities for you and your family to enjoy in Central Virginia. To know more about homes for sale in Charlottesville VA, please feel free to visit my website, www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com, for more information.

Call me, Pam Dent today at (434) 960-0161. I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate, local housing market, horse farms and golf communities that will guide you through the exciting and fulfilling journey of finding your dream home.

Great Summer Activities Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Great Summer Activities Around Homes for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Summer is slowly approaching and this season that brings activity and color around homes for sale in Charlottesville VA. This is the best time of the year to enjoy sports, especially for children since they are out of school. The lively town of Charlottesville is home to a number of sports activities that are loved and enjoyed not only by the children but by adults too. Summer also means a time for camp and children all over Charlottesville look forward to going to their camp of choice. Here are just a few of the numerous options to keep children busy this summer in Charlottesville:

Great summer activities around homes for sale in Charlottesville VA to enjoy - Pam Dent - Charlottesville VA Realtor

Soccer Organization Charlottesville Area

Otherwise known as SOCA, this organization provides children and adults the opportunity to learn more about soccer through comprehensive programs and trainings. This is an organization that prides itself in giving soccer enthusiasts in the area an amazing and unforgettable learning experience while making friends and building a community for the love of soccer along the way.

Boar’s Head Junior Golf Programs

Golf in this town is among the top favorites. Living in Charlottesville golf communities allows residents the ease of access to golf facilities where they can freely enjoy playing the sport. This is the best opportunity to get young golf enthusiasts started as well. Boar’s Head provides Junior Golf Programs that allow children to fully explore their potential in this sport while enjoying it at the same time. After completing a series of training, participants will be asked to join actual competitions in order to get a feel of the real deal as well.

The Kandi Comer Golf Academy at the Old Trail Golf Course also provides excellent instruction for young golfers.

North Garden Equestrian Center

What good would Charlottesville horse farms be if there were no opportunities to learn how to horseback ride? As early as six years old, children in town have the access to the best and safest facility that will teach them all about the basics of horseback riding. Through riding instructions and pointers along the way, participants would be able to learn and appreciate the art of horseback riding.

Triple C Camp

This organization is another fun and exciting option for children hoping to make the most out of their summer vacation. The Triple C Camp organizes their participants according to their year level and interests as well. This camp also allows parents to participate. Many of the activities they participate in involve outdoor sports like wall climbing, swimming and other activities that keep children energetic and excited. Parents who participate get to be involved in the growth of their children through the camp. They can also significantly contribute in fostering courage, curiosity, tradition in these children and exploration as the camp’s main mission.

Summertime is a great season to be in Charlottesville, so plan your move early. To find out more about this town and all the magnificent activities that await you, feel free to visit my website today at www.JumpIntoGreenerPastures.com.

Call me, Pam Dent today at (434) 960-0161. Or send me an e-mail at [email protected] I can assure you of the best quality service. I have the professional and expert knowledge on Charlottesville real estate and the local housing market that will guide you through the wonderful journey of finding your dream home.

Your Charlottesville Home and the Property Tax Deduction

Your Charlottesville Home and the Property Tax Deduction

Important Information to Verify with Your Lender

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If you have a mortgage with an escrow account to pay your property taxes and insurance for your Charlottesville home or Charlottesville horse farm, you expect the company servicing your loan to pay this year’s taxes during this year so that you can deduct them on your 2014 income tax return.  After all, your monthly payment includes 1/12 the annual amount so there will be money available for them to be paid on time.

IRS requires that expenses must actually be paid in the year that a deduction is to be taken.

The predicament occurs when you’ve made your payments but the mortgage company didn’t pay the taxing authority in the tax year they were due.  If they paid your 2014 taxes in January of 2015, they wouldn’t be deductible for you until you file your 2015 income tax return.

 

Verify with your lender after you make the December payment that they did indeed pay your property taxes.  The question for your lender’s customer service is: “Have you or will you pay the 2014 property taxes this year so I’m eligible to deduct them on my 2014 income tax return?” 

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Pam Dent
Phone: (434) 960-0161
Email: [email protected]
Gayle Harvey Real Estate Inc.
154 Hansen Rd. suite 102B
Charlottesville, VA 22911


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