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How Much Money Should I Save To Buy A Charlottesville VA House?

As a prospective homeowner, it is likely that you already have a dream home in mind. You may already have a checklist of all the features that you need the house to have. The more elaborate your checklist, the more expensive your dream home will be.

If you want to buy a home in Charlottesville, VA, you might be wondering how much you’ll need to save up. It all depends on you, and the type of home that you’re looking at buying. There are quite a few things that could make the house you want to buy expensive. The more expensive it is, the more you will need to save.

This article will explain the cost of the average home in Charlottesville, VA and how much you might need to save to buy one.


Charlottesville Country Homes

What Are Property Values Like in Charlottesville, VA?

For those looking to buy a home in this city, they have to know how much they’d be likely to spend. The median price for a home is about $355,000. Of course, there will also be plenty of homes below and above this price. 

For instance, over 50% of homes available in Charlottesville cost between $250,000 and $500,000. As prices go higher or lower than that range, the number of available homes decreases. But even if you are looking for seven figure homes, you will find a good selection in Charlottesville.

Top Real Estate Agents in Charlottesville, VA

You’ll also find many three-bedroom homes here, followed by two-bedroom houses. If you need even more space, then four-bedroom houses make up 16% of homes in the city.

Since the year 2000, homes in this city have appreciated 134.5%. This is about 4% every year, on average. This is something to consider for those who are planning to buy a home for investment purposes. Over the last ten years alone, the appreciation rate has been about 40%. This is in the top 30% in the nation.

Speaking of investments, you may want to buy a home as a rental property. Charlottesville, VA, is a great location to consider if that is the case. The average rent goes for about $1,700 every month, and about 60% of residents are renters.


Top Real Estate Agents in Charlottesville, VA

How Much Money Should I Save to Buy a Home in Charlottesville, VA?

If you have the cash to buy a home, it is always best to do it outright. This is not an option for most people, which is why they turn to their banks to finance the sale. By getting a mortgage, most people can become homeowners.

You will always need to pay a down payment on the house, even with a mortgage. The percentage of the total house price for the down payment varies. Many people use 20% as a rule of thumb. It can be lower than this, but it is unlikely to be higher. This makes it a good benchmark to use. If the house you decide to buy costs $500,000, you will have to have $100,000 saved up.

To always be on the safe side, ensure you have 20% of the total put aside. If you manage to get a smaller percentage on your down payment, that’s a definite bonus. You can put this extra cash to use if needed, especially if you might need to make some repairs.


Horse Farms for Sale in Central VA

What Factors Can Make a Home More Expensive in Charlottesville, VA?

When looking for a home in Charlottesville, VA, some things can make a house more expensive. You should have these in mind and keep your wallet at the ready. Especially if you want a five-bedroom estate or something like that!

Just because you can afford a house that large doesn’t mean that it is a good idea. Look at your monthly income and make sure that the mortgage won’t take too much of a hit on that. You are going to be paying it off for decades. You should go for a mortgage that is comfortable and won’t leave a serious dent each month.

Charlottesville Country Homes

Here are the factors which increase the value of a home:

  1. The size. This might be the most important consideration when looking for a home. The square footage of the property has a large effect on how much it will cost. This doesn’t refer to the house alone, but the entire lot. There are homes in Charlottesville, VA, that belong to golf communities or have farm space. All that extra land is sure to drive up the listing price. If this is what you want, make sure that you prepare for it. Homes like these are beautiful!
  2. The neighborhood. Charlottesville, VA, is a city and there are many neighborhoods within it. These areas can differ quite a bit and this can show on the average price for homes. Ivy is one of the more expensive neighborhoods in Charlottesville. In fact, it is one of the more expensive neighborhoods in the country. The median price for a home here is $790,000. This shows how important it is to select a neighborhood wisely.
  3. The year of construction. Simply put, the newer a home, the more expensive it is likely to be. The reason for this is rather straightforward. A lot of things in the house will be less likely to break down! Some of the most important parts of a home are the most expensive to fix. This includes the plumbing, wiring, and roof. If any of these get damaged, it will cost a lot of money to fix. A newer house is a sort of guarantee that these parts of the structure will last longer. Buying an older house for cheaper saves you some money you might need for fixes.

A higher down payment can help a buyer avoid the cost of mortgage insurance but it is usually necessary to put 20% down. pic.twitter.com/OaHgS7tOOR

— Pam Dent – REALTOR® (@pamdent) January 14, 2021

To summarize everything, you should aim for a house which you can afford comfortably. The amount of usable space, the area, and how old the house is, affect the price.

Whatever the price might be, have 20% of it on the ready. This will help avoid any disappointments you might encounter. Nobody wants to miss out on the house of their dreams.

Before you make any of these steps, you need to find the house of your dreams. If Charlottesville, VA, is your destination, Pam Dent, Realtor®, is the one. She’ll find you the best options to fit your needs. Call her at 434-960-0161 to get started now!

Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville VA Homes, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville real estate, Pam Dent Best Real Estate Agent in Charlottesville VA, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Charlottesville Horse Farms | Market Report for February 2018

Horse Farm for Sale in Charlottesville VA

Your own country getaway and horse farm is waiting!

If you’ve been longing for a peaceful and tranquil life in the country where you can enjoy the company of your horses, then you should come and see the desirable city of Charlottesville VA.

This charming town is situated within the upper Piedmont Plateau, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and at the headwaters of the Rivanna River. It is approximately 100 miles southwest of Washington D.C. and 70 miles northwest of Richmond, Virginia.

It was established as a town in 1762 by the Virginia General Assembly and was incorporated as an independent city in 1888.

Residents and tourists alike love Charlottesville because of its rich cultural, natural, and artistic history showcased in a selection of first-rate museums, galleries, wineries, shops, and parks dispersed throughout the area. The city was also home to Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe.

Some of the historic attractions include Monticello, the Grounds of the University of Virginia, Ash Lawn-Highland, Historic Court Square, and Michie Tavern, ca. 1784. There are tours, special events, and educational programs aimed at maintaining the vibrant spirit of the past.

 

What makes Charlottesville horse farms so desirable?

Charlottesville is home to the most beautiful houses, peaceful farmlands, horse properties, and estates in the country. There are also many rivers and lakes that provide the perfect setting for aquatic pursuits, such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing.

The city of Charlottesville boasts of a rich equestrian history, dating back to colonial times. It’s no surprise then that equestrian buyers from all over the world are drawn to this town.

With plenty of grass in the area, horses can graze in open pastures. They are free to run and live with enough space to get adequate exercise.

This town provides opportunities to attend horse shows year round within a short drive of Charlottesville. You’ll also find hundreds of miles of beautiful, scenic trails, designed specifically for horseback riding. James River State Park, nestled in the foothills of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, has 20 miles of many different types of riding trails.

Charlottesville VA Horse Farms for Sale

Are you thinking of expanding your investment portfolio?

If you love horses and would like to own a countryside escape, the equestrian properties in Charlottesville are what you are looking for.

You’ll definitely find well-planned properties on the market that have everything that a horse farm buyer could ask for.

Market Report for February 2018

There are currently 161 Charlottesville and Albemarle County Virginia farms for sale. The prices range from $325,000 to $19,780,000. Spaces vary from as much as 20 to 870 acres.

 

Horse Farms for Sale in Charlottesville VA

  • 161 Horse Farms for Sale – 161 Traditional Sales
  • 0 Short Sale
  • 0 Bank-Owned/REO Property

 

The median listing price of these horse farms is $ 1,695,000.

Click here for the current list of horse farms for sale in Charlottesville.

Call me, Pam Dent, at 434-960-0161. With my extensive knowledge of the Charlottesville area and the real estate market, I can help you find the best equestrian property that suits your lifestyle.

In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view CHARLOTTESVILLE HORSE FARMS | MARKET REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2018 on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/lue0IrZPS9I.

Filed Under: Blog, Central Virginia Horse Farm for Sale, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Horse Farms for Sale, Farms and Estates, Horse Farms for Sale in Charlottesville VA, Market Reports, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville Equestrian Estates, Charlottesville equestrian properties, Charlottesville horse farms, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

😁How to Make Buying a Home a Less Stressful Experience

From saving a down payment to applying for a mortgage to competing with other home buyers, buying a home can turn you into a ball of stress without you even knowing. Since buying a home involves a series of small steps that eventually lead to homeownership, it can be very stressful and challenging.

The good news, however, is that you can make the process go much more smoothly if you understand each step and prepare for the process before you jump into the boat. Before we talk about beating the stress of buying a new Charlottesville VA home, let’s talk about the hardest parts of buying a home so you can prepare yourself for them.

Golf Course Homes for Sale in Charlottesville

  1. Saving for the down payment

Most homebuyers cite this as the single biggest obstacle to owning a home in the U.S. The savings rate in the country is so dismal that majority of Americans find it hard to save enough to make a down payment on their dream home.

While saving money is not easy especially if we are talking about thousands of dollars, it is possible. To prepare for this part, set up a budget that includes a regular line item for your expected down payment, and give yourself as many months or years as you believe it will take. By the time you’ve saved enough, you are finally ready to purchase your dream home.

  1. Finding a buyer for your current home

While this only applies to homebuyers who are living in their current homes, this is also one of the hardest parts of buying a new home. This is primarily because it requires you to be involved in two real estate transactions at the same time. Imagine how hard it already is to purchase a home, and then adding a second—and sometimes an even tougher—transaction into the mix.

Another reason why this is can be very challenging is that most of the time, even a strong market is not enough to sell a home. Many prospective buyers do not always qualify for financing and as a home seller, you will encounter one or more false starts on offers before you get your home sold.

There is also the challenge of having one of these two transactions dependent on another. More often than not, the sale of a previous home is required for the mortgage of a new home. If there is any detail on the sale of your current home that looks a bit odd or uncertain, then that will most likely cause your home buying transaction to fail.

If you want to overcome this obstacle, come up with an effective strategy that will help you sell your current home first before you buy a new one. While that may not be easy, that will increase the chances of your home buying process turning out successful.

  1. Improving your credit

Even though the conditions in the housing market continue to improve, mortgage lenders are still cautious about borrower credit. If you are planning to buy a home and want to make sure that you are able to participate in the widest number of mortgage programs, then the first thing you need to do is to get your credit score up to at least the 700 level.

If you have recently had an impaired credit, improving your credit may be a challenge. This also rings true if you are carrying too much debt.

To prepare for this part of the home buying process, take time to give your credit a boost. Bring it where it needs to be so you can easily apply for a mortgage when it’s time to buy a home. You may want to get a free copy of your credit report as soon as now so you can take a look at the negative information it may reveal. As soon as you see it, take the necessary action.

  1. Choosing the right home in the right neighborhood

This is also one of the biggest challenges when buying a home. Often, prospective homebuyers find the home of their dreams in a neighborhood that goes beyond their price range. Most of the time, what they do is compromise.

Charlottesville Horse Farms

If you do not want to compromise, then find a home that suits your needs and taste and is located in the right neighborhood at the same time. For instance, having school-aged children may push you to sacrifice finding a dream home in favor of moving into an area where there are good schools. On the other hand, having no children at all may push you to prioritize the house more than the neighborhood.

  1. Preventing yourself from overbuying

In every real estate transaction, emotion always has a way of taking over you when you begin your search for your dream home. As a homebuyer, you have the tendency to fall in love with the property and end up paying too much for it in the process.

You may also tend to buy a house just because you like the way the furniture is arranged in it, even when it is not really the type of home that you need. Once you develop an emotional attachment to a home, it’s a short walk to paying more for that home than it’s actually worth. To keep that from happening, make sure that your emotions are always at bay when purchasing the right home for you and your family.

Before you begin your shopping decide on the amount of house you can afford and stick to that. Make sure that you also make decisions based on available facts, not because of your emotions.

Purchasing a home is just plain stressful.

Buying a home is a complicated process that involves strong emotion. In fact, experts agree that moving to a new home is among the top three most stressful events in life- next to death and divorce.

Whether it’s your first time or not, some aspects of buying a home are simply beyond your control.

However, there are some things that can help make your experience less stressful. In this article, I’ve included three of the best ways in which you can beat the stress of buying a new Charlottesville VA home and enjoy the experience.

Home for Sale in Charlottesville VA

1. Get your finances in order

Before you even think about hitting open houses, the first thing you need to do is to get your finances in order. A few months before you start your home search, order your free credit report from the three big credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com.

Examine your credit report carefully because lenders will use them to determine whether they’ll lend to you and at what rate. If you see any mistakes, have it corrected as soon as possible. You’ll need a score of a least 620 to get a mortgage while the best rates require a score of 740 or higher.

With a financial investment this big, the earlier you start getting your financial ducks in a row, the better.

2. Understand the home buying process

In the home buying process, knowledge is power. Don’t be afraid to ask questions until you understand. It’s essential that you keep yourself informed on the different steps involved in purchasing a home in Charlottesville VA. Doing so will help you manage your expectations.

There’s’ always a measure of anxiety when buying a new home. That’s perfectly normal, but you must not forget that it is also supposed to an exciting time. To make it a less stressful experience you have to prepare. Take time to educate yourself and do some legwork.  

Having an experienced and reliable real estate agent can also be an invaluable resource for you at a time like this. Your agent will keep you in the loop and let you know what’s happening at all time.

3. Partner with Pam Dent

Any real estate agent can help you browse home listings and set up showings for you. However, you will benefit more from working with an experienced real estate professional who has built connections and know-how over the years.

That would be me. I’ve been through the house buying process with many clients many times and I will help you through this one. As your agent, I will point out the pros and cons of homes, making sure you have noticed any red flags and generally making the home buying a positive, successful experience for you. I am familiar with the tools of the trade—from online listing sites to all the paperwork it takes to simply make an offer on a home.

Call me, Pam Dent, at 434-960-0161. My ultimate goal is to make your home buying experience as easy and stress-free as possible. With me on your side, you can take a step back and enjoy the process responsibly.

Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville, Charlottesville home, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville real estate, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

An Insider’s Guide to Buying A Charlottesville Country Property

Are you considering buying a “main home” or a “second home”?

Buying country property is a dream for many people.

With the constantly increasing cost of homes in the city or suburbs, moving to the countryside is ideal. Just imagine having a big house on a vast parcel of land where you can enjoy fresh air every day, raise pets, grow a garden, and your kids can play and run freely.

If you are not fully committed to living in the countryside just yet, having a country retreat as your vacation home is also a wonderful arrangement. Many people buy rural properties as their second home, though some of them actually don’t have a first home yet.

Your vacation home is a great place to spend the weekend, the summers, the holidays, and for when you just want to get away and leave all the stress behind.

Come and experience the unique charm of Charlottesville!

Charlottesville in VA is one of the best places to buy a country home. If you haven’t fully decided, watch this video and you’ll see why.

(Click this link if you can’t watch the video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ0mLZE1doQ)

Downtown Charlottesville is fun, vibrant and dynamic. It is a great shopping district with a lot of restaurants and boutiques to choose from. It is a city but it has a small-town feel, which is why many people love it.

If you love being outdoors, Charlottesville is perfect. Depending on the season, you can go hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, skiing, snow-tubing and more. You’ll never run out of activities here.

How to buy a country property in Charlottesville

When it’s time to buy an acreage in the countryside, you might feel overwhelmed by all the choices and decisions you’ll have to make. Let me help you make it easier.

Here’s a step-by-step process to help you take it one day at a time.

 

Step 1. Conduct preliminary research.

As soon as you decide to buy a property, start visiting websites that offer estates, farms and ranches in Charlottesville’s countryside.

Your goal is to see what real estate you like, and have an idea of the price range. Take note of specific listings that catch your interest, and see how they are positioned  in the market. Also, note if those properties experienced any price changes.

This is also the time to determine how you intend to use the land and if your favorites will have the necessary features. When you decide to buy a country property in Charlottesville, you already have a general idea of why you want it and what you want to do with it.

 

Step 2. Know how much you can afford.

Knowing your budget easily streamlines the country homes available to you.  The expression, “Don’t bite off more than you can chew” fits this situation.

The first question you want to ask yourself when it comes to your purchase ability is, “How will I pay for this property?”

Will it be a cash purchase? Or will you opt for bank financing?

When you have substantial savings, you may want to make it a cash purchase. This will allow more room for negotiation, and it makes the whole buying process easier.

 

Step 3. Get Prequalified and Preapproved.

Knowing your possible budget range based from your own computations, and knowing how much you actually qualify for are two different things.

Before you buy the country property that you’ve been checking online every night, you first need to know how much you can actually spend, and the best way to find out is to be pre-qualified.

Getting a pre qualification allows you to know what loan program is best suited for you. It also gives you an idea of how much you can borrow.  Securing a pre qualification will prove beneficial in the other steps of the buying process, like in budget preparation.

Once you know how much you can secure for the financing, get pre-approved.

A pre-qualification is helpful, but a pre-approval is more valuable because it tells the seller that a lender has checked your credit, verified your papers and has approved a loan amount for a particular time period.

Getting a pre-approval has many advantages:

1. It makes the home selection process easy for your agent. When agents know the price range you have been approved for, it is easier for your agent to know which properties to show you.

This is a better solution that your agent showing you properties way over your price range. You could fall in love with a country farm you cannot afford. After that, the lower price point properties just don’t have the same appeal to you.

Don’t set yourself up for disappointment.

2. Sellers are more likely to take your offer seriously when you have been pre-approved.

3. It lessens stress knowing you have already been approved by the lender. It gives you assurance that the buying process will be smoother.

 

Step 4. Hire the right real estate agent.

There are real estate agents, and there’s the right real estate agent.

When you are looking for a home in Charlottesville’s lovely countryside, you need someone who is not just a residential real estate agent. You want someone who specializes in selling country properties, farms, and ranches, and that would be me, Pam Dent.

My knowledge of the area, of the ranches, of Charlottesville’s land itself came many years before I was even actively involved in real estate.  I grew up exploring the countryside on the back of a horse.

I raised my kids in Charlottesville’s countryside. I know what you need to look for when purchasing land, being a long time owner myself.

My skills as a real estate agent allow me to guide you through the home buying process, aid you during the negotiation, provide assistance for all the paperwork, and share with you information about anything you’d like to know as a countryside home owner in Charlottesville.

With my skills, experience and professionalism, our home buying process will be less challenging and stressful.

 

Step 5. Find the acreage you like and make an offer.

This is the most exciting part! This is the part you usually see on TV, the part where buyers visit different properties, checking out the features and amenities, seeing if the farms offer what they need.

This is also a really difficult part. This is what the decision of where you’ll be living and what type of real estate you’ll be buying heavily relies on. This is the part you have to get right because it will affect your future drastically.

Start by looking at the homes in your price range. Bring your “Needs and Wants” list and take note which farms or ranches fit your list.

Since this step is crucial, let me share with you my top considerations if you are buying a country home. Carefully read the different factors you must make note of. Knowing these considerations can make a huge difference in the selection process.

Top considerations for buying a country property

  • Location. When you are buying a city or suburban real estate property, you want a home that’s in a safe neighborhood, close to school and other amenities, easy commute to work, etc.  The same things factor in when you are looking for a Charlottesville country home.

Here are a few questions you should be asking yourself :

 

  • How close (or far) do you want to be to shopping, hospitals, and many other amenities?  
  • Should there be a water feature close to the property?
  • Is there access to electricity, water, cable and other utilities?  There will usually be electricity but country farms  will have well and septic.  There will rarely be cable but often dsl is available.
  • What’s the road condition?
  • Do you want a place y that’s easily accessible from the main road, or one that’s miles off from the main road?
  • What’s the productivity of the soil type in the area?

 

Also, know why the home is being sold. Learn its history.  Drive around the area of the acreage  you are considering to purchase and see what the neighbors are like.

Get a feel of the area and decide if you can live in that setting. Visit more than once, on different times of the day, to see if your first impression of the farm still holds, and if you still like it.

  • Type of country property. Think of your definition of country living and know the type of property you intend to purchase.  For some buyers, country living means a home with country views, easy  access to water, electricity and other utilities, and neighbors a couple of minutes away.  For others it means being surrounded by extensive land, with its own wells, a reserve power generator, and where the nearest neighbors are a 10 to 15 minute drive away.

What will you do with the land? Do you plan to raise livestock? Are you going to use it as a horse farm or as an agricultural land? Will you hunt?  Or do you just want a get away?

  • Property size. The size of farm you will purchase depends on what you are going to use it for. It also depends on your purchasing power.

If you plan to use the property as a vacation home, how many acres do you need to secure privacy and retreat? If you’re going to start a Charlottesville horse farm, how many acres is a good start-up size? If you intend to use it for outdoor and recreational activities like hunting, how many acres would be sufficient?

  • Zoning and property restrictions. Zoning rules vary on different types of property.  Generally, farms with 20 acres or more are agricultural lands, which allows all types of animals and livestock. If you intend to hunt in your land, you need sufficient acreage in a rural location, and it should  neighbor with lands that also have large acreage, but remember that you will only be able to hunt on neighboring properties with permission.

Find out building codes, zoning and restrictions. Can you build a chicken coop on the property? How about a ranch? How about a pond?

Check with the seller and the municipality for any existing easements in the area.

Know if the property is part of a conservation area or under conservation easement.

  • Neighbors. You may think that being out in the vast countryside, you’ll have little chance to see your neighbors so it doesn’t really matter what kind you have.

However, you have to remember that neighbors are a great help especially if you have questions about how to develop the acreage. They have extensive knowledge of the land and the weather. They know what to do during emergencies.

Significant research goes into finding the right property.

Take your time in deciding which Central Virginia real estate   to buy.

Once you’ve chosen “the one”, work with your real estate agent and negotiate an offer based on the comparables in the area.

In your offer, include any contingencies, like home inspections, well and septic tests, building and safety code requirement for the house, etc. You have to be specific in writing any requests and repairs to be included in the sale.

Determine the amount of “earnest money” you’ll be putting in.

When both parties are in agreement regarding the terms, you can then put your name on the Purchase and Sale Agreement form.

 

Step 6. Get a home inspection and a land survey

You have to know what you’re buying.

A home inspection is conducted so you’ll know everything that’s going on in the property, from the condition of the house, to the plumbing, the structural strength,  and of course, the deal breakers.  You may also want to have an environmental study (think home inspection for the land).

A land survey will tell you the exactly where the property line is. You’ll know where your farm begins and ends through this survey.  

These surveys and inspections should be clearly stated as contingencies when you make an offer.

 

Step 7. Secure your loan.

This is the part where you choose the lender. Before you decide, shop around for mortgages with the lowest interest rates and best programs.

Choose the mortgage where you’ll be financially comfortable.   Be aware that many mortgage companies do not lend on farms and land.  Your Realtor will be able to give you a list of lenders who can assist you with this type of property.

 

Step 8. Get a property appraisal.

Your lender will want to ensure it is paying the right market value of the Charlottesville acreage.

A professional appraiser will be hired to check the farm’s value.

 

Step 9. Prepare the necessary paperwork and finalize the deal.

Once the terms are set, and the property is appraised, you can use the result for renegotiating the terms if needed. Your agent will negotiate on your behalf.

To verify if the seller is the rightful owner of the home, your attorney or closing company will use the service of a title company to take care of all the paperwork.

 

Step 10.  Close the deal.

 

This is the easiest yet costliest part of the buying process. Review everything prior to the closing, going over the fine details, ensuring everything is to your liking before handing over the payment to the seller.

 

Congratulations! You’ve now reached the end of your country home buying journey. The final step is to move in to your new home.

 

Call me, Pam Dent, at 434-960-0161. I am your golf and equestrian property specialist here in Charlottesville. I am also a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, as well as being experienced in working with first time buyers. I have lived here in Central Virginia almost all my life and have a deep love for the countryside and its preservation. My long involvement with equestrian activities, along with my professionalism and in-depth knowledge of the area makes me uniquely suited to take care of all your real estate needs. You, my client, are my first priority, and I am dedicated to ensuring that your real estate experience goes smoothly. 

I look forward to hearing from you.

 

Filed Under: Blog, Central Virginia Horse Farm for Sale, Charlottesville, Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Horse Farms for Sale, Farms and Estates, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Real Estate Tagged With: Central Virginia, Central Virginia homes for sale, Central Virginia Real Estate, Charlottesville, Charlottesville country homes, Charlottesville country properties, Charlottesville real estate, Charlottesville Virginia horse farm, homes for sale in Charlottesville, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

🙌What to Expect When Buying a Home in Charlottesville VA

Purchasing a home is a big deal.

The whole process can be even more daunting if you’ve never bought a house before. It’s not as simple as picking out a house, having a seller accept your offer, signing your name on a couple of dotted lines, and getting the keys to the property.

Expect these things when buying a home in Charlottesville VA

Buying a house can be a lengthy and complicated process that involves a lot of steps. It’s a serious commitment. You have to prepare yourself financially, emotionally, and mentally.

 

Home ownership can be a smart long-term move, but you want to know what you’re getting into. Here are some things that you should expect when buying a home:

Expect rigorous financial checks

One of the things that you should expect when buying a home in Charlottesville VA is that you will undergo some serious financial checks. In order to decide whether or not to offer you a loan, loan officers will have to take a look at your financial standing.

Knowing your credit score is also important because it determines the rate and conditions you receive on a mortgage loan. If your credit score is high, lenders will see you as a low-risk investment and offer you a low rate on your loan with good conditions.

 

Expect to make a down payment

You have to be prepared to make a down payment if you’re set on purchasing a Charlottesville home for sale. A down payment is a type of payment made in cash during the onset of the purchase of a home.

Many home buyers pay down payments equal to 10% to 20% of the total value of the home, while the bank or other financial institution covers the remainder of the costs through a mortgage loan.

 

Expect that you and the seller aren’t the only people involved

When you decide to purchase a home, you’ll come in contact with several individuals, each playing a significant role in your purchase journey. This typically involves the following:

  • Mortgage Lender
  • Mortgage Banker
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Seller’s Agent
  • Home Inspector
  • Appraiser
  • Home Insurance Agent
  • Title Company or Settlement Agent/Attorney

 

Expect that you have to be patient

Being patient is one of the key elements you need to have in order to make sure you are making all the right decisions when buying a home.

Don’t get easily frustrated when you can’t find your dream home in the first few days or weeks. This is part of the process so you have to give it some time.  Once you have found the right home, you have to keep in mind that it is yet another part of the process to get to the closing of the purchase of your soon-to-be new home.  

 

Buying a home is an exciting time! Making the smart move of choosing the best real estate agent will ensure that your new home and community will meet your needs.

 

Let me be of service to you!

With my experience, I can help you find the best house, for the best price, that checks off the majority of the items on your checklist. I will help you navigate all the questions and explain the process, each step of the way.

Call me, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. Together, we can find the home that best suits you and your family!

 

Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville real estate, Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

🏠How Do You Know When You’re Ready to Buy a Home in Charlottesville VA?

Getting ready to buy your first house?

 

Purchasing a house is one of the largest financial decisions you will make in your life and homeownership remains to be a goal for many. In fact, it is usually referred to as the great American Dream.

Having your own home means you will have a place to call your own where you’ll be creating equity and building towards the future. You will also have the freedom to decorate your home without having to get approval from someone else.

 

Purchasing a Charlottesville VA Home

 

Of course, there are also serious responsibilities. For one, you’ll have to pay for all the maintenance. You have to be sure that you are ready to take on the duties associated with home ownership.

So how do you know when you’re ready to buy a home in Charlottesville VA?

 

Your finances are in order

Before buying a home, you have to know both the upfront and the ongoing money you’ll need. Are you financially ready? How much credit card debt do you have?

How about your credit score? Your credit score will indicate how creditworthy you are. If your credit score is terrible, it may not be a good time to purchase a house. On the other hand, if you have excellent credit, it will be easier for you to get a mortgage at a low-interest rate.

 

You have saved enough down payment

Saving up a down payment may seem like a daunting task. However, it can be done if you go about it the right way.

If you have already saved enough money for a down payment, it is a good indication that you’re ready to buy a home. However, you also have to take into consideration the other expenses like closing costs, insurance, taxes, and repairs and furnishings to turn the house into a livable home.

If you can afford a down payment that allows room for breathing after the purchase, you are well on your way to home ownership.

 

You are ready to settle down

Before buying any home, make sure you’ll want to stay in that location for at least the next three to five years. Remember that your home is a long-term investment.

On average, home prices, appreciate around three percent per year. If you were to buy and have to sell in less than two years you’d likely lose money because there’s a chance that the increased value won’t even cover the closing costs you paid to buy the house.

 

You have the maturity to own a home

While homeownership is a major accomplishment, it also involves a great deal of responsibility. While you were renting, your landlord takes care of everything. Your duty was to pay your rent on time and to keep your unit clean. However, it is entirely different when you own a home.

Are you ready to do the maintenance work necessary to keep your home in good shape? Are you prepared to make all of your mortgage payments on time every time?

If you’re committed to taking on these responsibilities and more, then you’re ready to purchase your own home!

 

Are you in the market for a home here Charlottesville VA? Let me help you!

Call me, Pam Dent at (434) 960-0161. With my expertise and experience, I can help turn your real property dreams into a reality.

 

Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Homes in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville, Charlottesville home, Charlottesville homes, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

SOLD! 425 Meade Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | Charlottesville VA Home For Sale

425 Meade Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22902 is a single family home built in 2011. This property was last sold for $330,000 in 2013 and currently has an estimated value of $374,500. The median sales price for the Martha Jefferson area is $359,000. The $374,500 estimated value is 4.03% greater than the median listing price of $360,000 for the Martha Jefferson area.

According to the Charlottesville public records, the property at 425 Meade Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22902 has approximately 2,009 square feet, 4 beds, 2 full and 1 half baths with a lot size of 5,009 square feet. Nearby schools include Burnley-Moran Elementary School, Buford Middle School and Charlottesville High School. Check this home for sale in Charlottesville VA.


SOLD! 425 Meade Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | Charlottesville VA Home for Sale
Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
$330,000
Single Family Home
Main Features
4 Bedrooms
2 Full Bathrooms
1 Half Bathroom
Interior: 2,009 sqft
Lot: 5,009 sqft
Year Built: 2011
Location
425 Meade Ave
Charlottesville, VA 22902
USA

Pam Dent - REALTOR® Pam Dent – REALTOR®

Gayle Harvey Real Estate, Inc.
(434) 960-0161
[email protected]
http://www.JumpintoGreenerPastures.com

      

Our recent listings

Historic Caleb Stone House for Sale | 67 Cameron St Columbia VA 23038 | $269,900 | Columbia, VA
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Price Reduced! 5639 Markwood Rd Earlysville VA 22936 | Home for Sale | $550,000 | Earlysville, VA

 

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Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville Golf Community Homes, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Horse Farms for Sale Tagged With: Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Real Estate Properties for Sale, homes for sale in Charlottesville, Homes in Charlottesville, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

SOLD! 1530 Birnam Dr Charlottesville, VA 22901

This fully updated Birnam Wood townhouse is perfect for the first time home-buyer or investor! The subdivision is just minutes from the new Shops at Stonefield, & less than 10 minutes from UVA’s Darden School of Business, the Law School, & 15 minutes to UVA Hospital. The home features 1,500 finished sqft & light-filled spaces. The main level includes a living room w/ fireplace, dining area, updated kitchen w/ white cabinets & ss appliances, a half bath, & an open staircase w/ two skylights. The home also includes a large MBR suite w/ a recently updated bathroom, a loft area perfect for a home office, & a 2nd bedroom w/a private balcony & attached bathroom. Relax in the quiet screened in porch that overlooks a wooded haven & community space.


SOLD! 1530 Birnam Dr Charlottesville, VA 22901
Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
$179,000
Single Family Home
Main Features
2 Bedrooms
2 Full Bathrooms
1 Half Bathroom
Interior: 1,500 sqft
Year Built: 1981
MLS #: 557451
Location
1530 Birnam Dr
Charlottesville, VA 22901
USA

Pam Dent - REALTOR® Pam Dent – REALTOR®

Gayle Harvey Real Estate, Inc.
(434) 960-0161
[email protected]
http://www.JumpintoGreenerPastures.com

      

Listed by: Pam Dent

Our recent listings

Luxury Home and Equestrian Estate for Sale in Virginia | 570 Wyndholm
SOLD! 4053 Free Union Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901
5639 Markwood Rd Earlysville VA 22936 | Home for Sale
5860 Emerald Ln Charlottesville VA 22903 | Charlottesville Horse Farm for Sale
14112 Spotswood Ridge Dr | Horse Farm For Sale

 

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Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Horse Farms for Sale, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Pam Dent Tagged With: Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Real Estate Properties for Sale, homes for sale in Charlottesville, Homes in Charlottesville, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

SOLD! 1134 Amber Ridge Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901

Wonderful home ideally positioned to provide feeling of privacy and wonderful view of the surrounding mountains. Minutes from Crozet and Ivy, I64 and a short drive to Charlottesville. Thoughtful landscaping and a fantastic back yard, complete with relaxing hammock tree, offer a great space to relax. Light-filled and open first floor plan. Spacious LR with welcoming window seat, large kitchen and dining area – all great for entertaining. First floor master suite features sitting area and walk-in closet. Upstairs features large BRs with good closets – one BR currently being used as master bedroom. Lots of storage. Back patio accessed from dining area. Fourth BR/bonus room offers potential for den and/or guest suite.


SOLD! 1134 Amber Ridge Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901
Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Contact us for pricing
Condominium
Main Features
4 Bedrooms
2 Full Bathrooms
1 Half Bathroom
Interior: 1,893 sqft
Lot: 8,364 sqft
Year Built: 1993
MLS #: 544388
Location
1134 Amber Ridge Rd
Charlottesville, VA 22901
USA

Pam Dent - REALTOR® Pam Dent – REALTOR®

Gayle Harvey Real Estate, Inc.
(434) 960-0161
[email protected]
http://www.JumpintoGreenerPastures.com

      

Listed by: Pam Dent

Our recent listings

Luxury Home and Equestrian Estate for Sale in Virginia | 570 Wyndholm
SOLD! 4053 Free Union Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901
5639 Markwood Rd Earlysville VA 22936 | Home for Sale
5860 Emerald Ln Charlottesville VA 22903 | Charlottesville Horse Farm for Sale
14112 Spotswood Ridge Dr | Horse Farm For Sale

 

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Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Pam Dent Tagged With: Charlottesville VA Condominiums, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Real Estate Properties for Sale, Condos for Sale in Charlottesville VA, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

SOLD! 1709 Arrow Wood Dr Charlottesville, VA 22902

Look no further! Single family home, excellent condition, superb location & at a price that can’t be beat! A dramatic cathedral ceiling, gas fireplace & laminate wood floors are found in the great room. There’s a 1st floor master suite with HUGE walk in closet and updated bathroom, and more laminate flooring. A new 5 burner gas range is featured in the kitchen, along with tons of cabinets, pantry & tile floors. Enormous sliding doors in the dining area lead to the awesome deck & back yard. Upstairs is a bedroom with 2 closets and palladium window, plus 3rd bedroom/loft overlooking the living room below. Fantastic fenced yard backs to woods and a creek. This home is located minutes to Downtown, UVA and I64, not to mention the new Wegmans. 


SOLD! 1709 Arrow Wood Dr Charlottesville, VA 22902
Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
$274,900
Single Family Home
Main Features
2 Bedrooms
2 Full Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 1,398 sqft
Lot: 0.29 acre(s)
Year Built: 1993
MLS #: 544352
Location
1709 Arrow Wood Dr
Charlottesville, VA 22902
USA

Pam Dent - REALTOR® Pam Dent – REALTOR®

Gayle Harvey Real Estate, Inc.
(434) 960-0161
[email protected]
http://www.JumpintoGreenerPastures.com
      Listed by: Pam Dent

Our recent listings

SOLD! 4053 Free Union Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901
5639 Markwood Rd Earlysville VA 22936 | Home for Sale
5860 Emerald Ln Charlottesville VA 22903 | Charlottesville Horse Farm for Sale
14112 Spotswood Ridge Dr | Horse Farm For Sale
Luxury Home and Equestrian Estate for Sale in Virginia | 570 Wyndholm

 

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Sold Listings and Properties

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Filed Under: Blog, Charlottesville Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Homes, Homes in Charlottesville VA, Real Estate Properties in Charlottesville VA Tagged With: Charlottesville VA Homes, Charlottesville VA Homes for Sale, Charlottesville VA Real Estate Properties for Sale, homes for sale in Charlottesville, Homes in Charlottesville, Pam Dent, Real Estate Properties for Sale in Charlottesville VA

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Contact Pam

Pam Dent
Phone: (434) 960-0161
Email: [email protected]
Gayle Harvey Real Estate Inc.
198 Spotnap Rd, #C-5,
Charlottesville, VA 22911


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