A Place in American History: Lancaster County Virginia

Lancaster County Virginia was established in 1651, and was originally part of Northumberland and York Counties. The County is bordered on one side by the mouth of the Rappahannock River and on the other by the Chesapeake Bay. Captain John Smith journeyed to Lancaster County by boat in the early 1600s and landed there to replenish supplies. The County has many historic estates, waterfront estates, farms, and farmettes, some which date to the Colonial or Civil War era.

Famous Americans from Lancaster County, Virginia

Mary Ball Washington was born in Lancaster County, Virginia. She was born eight miles from the site of the present day Mary Ball Washington Museum in Lancaster, Virginia. The mother of our country later resided in New Kent County, Virginia, and then with the father of our country, George Washington, at Mount Vernon.

Waterfront Estates, Country Estates, and Historic Property, in Lancaster County

For the discriminating homebuyer, with some nostalgia for the past and a yearning for a quieter, simpler life, Lancaster County offers a wide variety of homes for purchase. The home buyer interested in country estates, historic property, farms and farmettes will find Lancaster County is a great place to look. Waterfront homes and/or homes in waterfront communities are beginning to be developed in Lancaster County. Some of these waterfront properties offer docks with deepwater access nearby. Some waterfront communities provide marinas and dry boat docking within the community.

Seafood Restaurants in Lancaster County, Virginia

There are a wide selection of locally owned restaurants in Kilmarnock, Virginia. Cap'n Reds Seafood Market, Rappahannock Seafood Market, Rose's Crab House and Raw Bar, the Dockside Restaurant, and Kelley's Seafood are all excellent choices for the catch of the season. In nearby Irvington, Abbott Brothers, Kellum W. Ellery, and The Tides are great seafood restaurants with fresh local catches.

Historical Landmarks in Lancaster County

Mary Ball Washington Museum was named for the mother of George Washington born in Lancaster Co. Extensive library and genealogical research material dating to 1651.Tour the historic buildings, view exhibits, participate in educational programs and trace family histories. The five building complex includes the Old Jail (1820), Clerk's Office (c. 1797), Lancaster House and Stuart Blakemore Bldg (c.1900). Located in the Lancaster Courthouse Historic District. Fun and educational exhibits are on display covering 350 years of history in Lancaster County. Located across the street from Lancaster Tavern. Christ Church, an Episcopal Church in Lancaster, was first built in 1670. It was redesigned in detailed brickwork and opened in 1735.

Lancaster County Marinas

The avid boater will find many excellent choices for marinas in the areas of Weems and Irvington, and Lacaster. Carter's Cove Marina is in Weems, and they offer a "well protected, deepwater marina with full length finger piers." The brand new boathouse has sewage pump outs for each slip. The Tides Marinas in Irvington is located on Carters Creek, about 9 miles from the Inter Coastal Waterway. The Tides won Best of the Bay by Chesapeake Magazine. In Lancaster, Virginia, sailboaters will find the Yankee Point Sailboat Marina a perfect place to stop and relax with a beverage, do some laundry, use the swimming pool, or relax.

Lancaster County Wineries

White Fences Vineyard and Winery in Irvington Virginia is the place where locals and visitors celebrate the Irvington Stomp each year at harvest time. White Fences Vineyard has a tasting room and a gift shop and is open every day except Tuesday and Wednesday, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Lancaster County Outdoor Activities

Lancaster County is a flat piece of land surrounded by water on two sides. With the Rappahannock River to the south and west and the Chesapeake Bay to the East, the County offers rural charm near the Bay. Cycling has been popular in the county since the invention of the bicycle, and this remains so even today. Boating, fishing, golf, and hiking are popular activities as well.

Belle Isle State Park

Belle Isle State Park was purchased by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation in 1992. It was purchased by John Bertrand, a Hugenot, in 1692 and was operated as a plantations throughout the 19th Century. Belle Isle State Park just opened 30 new campsites, with electric hookups, in 2007. The Park is situated close to Litwalton and Nuttsville and can be accessed by the free ferry stop by taking 354 or 622. The overnight facilities include the Bel Air Mansion and the Bel Air Guest House.

Lancaster County Proximity to Major Cities

Lancaster County is only one and one half hours from the Washington D.C. metro area, making it the perfect place to retire, relocate, or purchase a second home. The County is also only one hour from Richmond and Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg, all urban areas offering international airports, fine dining, culture, and recreation.

Lancaster County Public Schools

Lancaster County Public Schools consist of Lancaster High School, Lancaster Middle School, and Lancaster Primary School. The County also provides residents specialized schools: Lancaster Alternative School and the Chesapeake Bay Governor's School.

Lancaster County Private Schools

Chesapeake Academy in Irvington, Virginia provides a private school education for children grades one through eight. This coed school is non-sectarian, and has approximately 122 students enrolled.

Community Colleges

Rappahannock Community College serves Lancaster County with a campus across the Rappahannock River in Glenns, Virginia, and another just north of the County in Warsaw, Virginia. Full or part time college students working on a Bachelor's degree can easily commute to the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia and Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia.

Contemporary Lancaster County on the Chesapeake Bay

There are approximately 12,000 residents in Lancaster County, and the county is situated on 133 miles of land and 98 miles of water. Life in Contemporary Lancaster County Virginia is changing slowly. Between 2000 and 2004 there was a 4% increase in population. Gradually more people are retiring, relocating, or purchasing a second home in this scenic niche of Virginia. Because Lancaster County is close to the Chesapeake Bay, there are numerous waterfront properties available. The gradual development of Belle Isle State Park, the former site of a plantation, also makes Lancaster County appealing to new residents.

Please let me know how I may assist you in finding a waterfront estate, waterfront property, a farm, historic home, or country estate in Lancaster County, Virginia. Call 757-288-4685 to speak to me directly or email vonmor1@cox.net.

www.estatesinvirginia.com

Have You Gone Through a Bankruptcy, Foreclosure or Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure? How Long Until You Can Purchase a Home?

Many people have gone through complex financial situations during the recession. Having an affordable place to live is a primary need. Even if you have lost a home in foreclosure or bankruptcy or surrendered a home to a creditor with a deed in lieu of foreclosure - you and your loved ones still need an affordable place to live.  

Renting a home may seem like the only option for those who have lost one.  With mortgage interest rates ranging from 3-4%, on paper, purchasing a home may be less expensive than renting one but mortgages are only available to those with good credit. The problem is that many people who have suffered financial crises such as the loss of a job or income and are in recovery, may have an adequate enough income to qualify for a mortgage – but there is a dark shadow over their past. This prevents them from even approaching a REALTOR or mortgage professional.  

There is no reason to avoid purchasing a home because of the deeds of the past.  Instead, be informed about current mortgage guidelines.  Read this article and see if enough time has passed to put you in the clear to qualify for a mortgage.  Also, see a credit counselor to better understand the issues at hand and how they can be resolved.

Each specific financial event noted here usually involves some sort of waiting period before another mortgage can be obtained. Kevin Onizuk, Mortgage Loan Originator and Branch Manager of the Westar Mortgage Williamsburg office, offers his expertise.  Says Onizuk, “While laws vary from state to state, mortgage guidelines are set by individual mortgage programs. These include: Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Veteran’s Association (VA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and conventional loans by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.”  In the past, mortgage brokerages were numerous.  A majority of mortgages today are written by direct mortgage lenders, big banks and credit unions. Though mortgage products are less numerous, the basic rules of mortgage lending remain very much the same.  

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

In general, for most mortgage programs, there is a four-year waiting period to qualify for a new mortgage, from the date of discharge.   In extenuating circumstances, some mortgage programs will only require a two-year waiting period.  For example, if the Chapter 7 was filed due to too much credit card debt or divorce, the waiting period will remain four years in most instances.  However, if the Chapter 7 was filed because of something out of your control, such as job loss, injury or cut in pay, a mortgage loan officer will consider this carefully and may ask for exceptions.  

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

A Chapter 13 Bankruptcy is more complex than a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.   “It could take 3-5 years to complete the repayment program attached to a Chapter 13,” says Onizuk.  Most mortgage programs will want to see the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy completely discharged. For a Chapter 13, mortgage loan officers are required to use the date the petition for Chapter 13 bankruptcy was filed.  A Chapter 13 must be completely discharged for the borrower to qualify for most mortgage programs, though not all programs apply this rule.  The waiting periods are two to four years, based upon individual circumstances.  The primary difference between a Chapter 7 and a Chapter 13 as far as mortgage applications is the loan originator looks at the filing date, not the discharge date.  

Foreclosure/Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure

For either Foreclosure or Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure the waiting period to qualify for a new mortgage is typically three years.  There are some mortgage programs that may allow less than three years (such as the VA).  FHA also has a special program to prepare homebuyers to purchase after one year, but the applicant must show the foreclosure was due to the economic crisis and recession.  The loan officer will examine your income to determine if it dropped significantly then and has recovered since.  FHA loan recipients must first take a class on financial management, as a provision of the program.    

Debt Collections and Judgements

Collections and judgements may also keep individuals from qualifying for mortgages.  Very little credence is given to medical collection accounts, because these are often turned over before an individual even knows they are due.  Any individual judgement on record has to be satisfied (paid in full) or removed before closing, because it could potentially put the deed in jeopardy.  

Many people who have had serious financial issues during the recession simply assume they do not qualify for a mortgage.  Depending upon the situation and the time period that has elapsed they may actually be ready to obtain a mortgage.  “Many, loan officers will work with people who are still in waiting periods,” says Onizuk.  “A loan officer may not be able to approve a mortgage right away but at least he or she can see where the client is. If the home buyer needs to do any credit repair or improvement, a good loan officer will assist in working on these items.”  

If you want to purchase a home but are unsure if you will qualify, contact a local mortgage professional.  He or she can review your situation and see if you qualify.  “The rules change regularly,” says Onizuk, “so applicants may be more qualified than they think,” he added.  Make the move towards being a homeowner by obtaining some professional advice and direction on how to prepare to buy as quickly as possible.    

Home Styles and Features Appropriate for Aging in Place

By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, Associate Broker, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winning Agent

What is aging in place? Why is this phrase used so commonly now? The huge boost in the aging population, created by the baby boomers, is spurring a completely different discussion about aging and dying, then has been seen in generations. With a majority (75%) rejecting health care settings and even retirement communities -Boomers are indicating a majority preference for staying in the home and in their communities as they age. In the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries, single-family homes were kept in the family, and elders aged at home. The difference is now, we live in a mobile society, and children are often out-of-state pursing careers and taking care of families.

So, when a senior experiences the death of a partner, he or she will often opt to age in place. Aging in place means staying in the suburbs, or the rural or urban community where a senior has lived for decades. Yet making the choice to stay in the family home means renovations may be needed in order to keep living at home. Or, perhaps the family home needs to be sold and a newer, more appropriate property will be purchased as the perfect residence to age in place.

Homes designed so seniors can age in place are not just the wave of the future. They are here and now. As concepts about aging change, and life expectancy is lengthened by as much as 15-20 years, Boomers are finding they have to rethink their retirement. Building concepts and renovations of existing homes will continue to change and adapt to the growing senior population's needs.
The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies (HJCHS) has been looking closely at this shift in the housing needs for the Baby Boomer generation, also dubbed the ‘silver tsunami.' Jen Molinsk, a Housing Perspective Associate from the HJCHS, says, "Abilities may change over time. The definition hints at the dynamic nature of aging in place, rather than the absence of action and change regarding one's living environment." Needs often precipitates change. Anticipating problems with walking and walking up stairs while aging makes it necessary to live on the first floor or have elevator access to a residence.

Desirable Home and Community Features for Aging in Place

• Easy no-step entrance to a unit
• First floor living (or elevator access)
• Wider doorways and turnaround areas for wheelchair access
• Bathrooms with easy access to tub and shower and grab bars
• A range of housing types in close proximity to daily needs and public transportation

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has also studied aging in place communities. NAR research shows that transportation is a major issue, because seniors who no longer drive still need to get to the grocery store, the doctor and eat out. "By 2015, 15.5 million Americans 65 and older will live in communities where public transportation service is poor or non-existent," says the report, "Aging in Place, Stuck Without Options."

Communities Adapt to Residents Needs to Age in Place

Places like Arlington, Virginia and Cobb County, Georgia are actively correcting this lack of public transportation and successfully retaining a senior community. "We wanted to make the whole community senior friendly, rather than make them move to a separate development that is senior friendly," said Dana Johnson, of Cobb County. In Arlington, a solid infrastructure is in place, including wider sidewalks with sloping corners and more public transportation options just for seniors.

The types of housing I recommend to seniors include condominiums with elevators (or first floor) and townhomes. Also, if an aging person were presently located in a rural area, would his or her lifestyle benefit from a move closer in to doctors, family, friends and grocery store? Is the home they are living in too big to manage? Are there too many floors and too much yard space for upkeep? If so, selecting another home, more suitable for aging in place, will be the most likely option to take.
The Williamsburg, Virginia area has always been a retirement destination. Williamsburg, VA continues to be a retirement mecca because of a mild winter and a four seasons climate, and its convenient location in the Mid-Atlantic region. As Williamsburg seniors decide to age in place, and more retirees relocate into the area, builders are responding. They are constructing more first floor ranchers, cottages and single-family homes with a master bedroom on the first floor. Sometimes retirees will request a master on the first floor and one on the second floor, so there is room for a caregiver to live with them.


With the 65+ population set to double by 2030, and a large percentage of seniors stating they want to age in place, demand for appropriate housing will continue to grow. Learn more about housing that is perfect for aging in place in Williamsburg, Virginia, visit: http://www.voncannonrealestate.com.

Williamsburg Area Learning Tree (WALT) Seminar on Real Estate in Williamsburg: Is it a Seller's or Buyer's Market?

By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, Associate Broker, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winning Agent

(Williamsburg, Virginia) The topsy-turvy state of the real estate market is a challenge to buyers and sellers and REALTOR Elaine VonCannon will be addressing this in an upcoming presentation: "Riding the Rollercoaster: Is it a Seller 's Market or a Buyer 's Market in Williamsburg, Virginia?" VonCannon 's educational and informational seminar is open to the public and is sponsored by Williamsburg Area Learning Tree (WALT). It is scheduled for Wednesday October 8th from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Walsingham Academy on Jamestown Road, in Williamsburg Virginia. Cost is $15. Seating is limited. Participants may register and pay for the WALT class online to ensure a seat.

Jeff Hurd, a Loan Officer with Movement Mortgage in York County, Virginia will be present to speak briefly about current trends in mortgage lending and answer questions.

Elaine VonCannon is an award winning REALTOR. She is an author and a regular guest on the radio show "Ask the Expert" on WNBG 740 am in Williamsburg, Virginia, which also streams on the Web.

John Wilson, owner of the brokerage VonCannon works for, Coldwell Banker Traditions in Williamsburg, has assessed the local real estate market as follows: "Supply and demand dictates the market. The overall real estate market in Williamsburg, Virginia continues to struggle to get any appreciation and/or momentum. The homes on the market need to be turnkey, ready to go, and must be priced correctly. The sellers must be ready to beat the market with the condition of the home and be priced to compete. This is especially true for the upper end." There are still many distressed homes and foreclosed properties on the market, and coming onto the market regularly. This means that homeowners who want to list their property must make sure it is move in ready, because sellers have the option of buying bank owned 'fixer uppers.'

Elaine VonCannon also frequently presents information on the real estate market in the Williamsburg area with John Starke, a financial planner. VonCannon speaks at investment seminars Starke hosts. Her articles on real estate have been reprinted in national publications and she is recognized in the region as a reliable real estate expert, with her finger on the pulse of the market. VonCannon has been in the real estate profession for 15 years. To read more articles on the current market or view real estate listings in Williamsburg, visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com or email Elaine at voncannonrealestate@cox.net.

Active Baby Boomers (47-54) Interested in Purchasing Second Home While Older Boomers (55-64) Want to Downsize, Aging in Place

By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, Associate Broker, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winning Agent

Baby Boomers are about to explode in numbers into the retiring population, changing the face of aging in the United States. Active Baby Boomers are generally 47-54 and still in the workforce. Older Baby Boomers (56-64) are either retiring early or preparing for retirement. According to an article on Realtor.com, "The Boomer Effect" by author John Van Gieson, statistics forecast 10,000 Baby Boomers a day will retire in the next 20 years. This sets the stage for the doubling of the aging population in the decades to come. Because of the implosion this will create on the American economy and Social Security and Medicare, this aging Boomer population has been dubbed the 'silver tsunami.'
At the same time this population ages, life expectancy is extended for this group largely because of medical technology. This combination of factors sets the stage for a very particular group with specific housing needs pre and post retirement.
Though some Boomers may have lost property and jobs during the recession, many held onto their homes and kept equity in their homes. The financially secure Baby Boomers are ready to make a move or an investment. As the real estate market continues to repair from the great recession, some of these Boomers are considering a move now. This may involve downsizing from a large family home to a property with no exterior maintenance. Meanwhile, many Active Boomers, looking onward towards retirement, desire second homes and investment properties.

What geographic areas in the U.S. will the silver tsunami prefer?

Some Boomers may purchase property in Florida. But Florida will no longer be the mecca for retired homeowners, as it was for many years. Current trends indicate this generation of Boomers will tend to purchase properties in the Mid-South region in places like Virginia, the Carolinas and Tennessee.

Virginia Homes for Sale Desirable for Boomers

According to the U.S. Census, population across the state of Virginia grew 3.2% between 2010 and 2013. In my own geographic region, Williamsburg and James City County, population increased 5.2% during the same time period. Williamsburg, James City and York Counties have always been popular retirement locations, and as statistics indicate - this trend will continue. The historic triangle is a popular place in Virginia to purchase a home because the region is family oriented, rich in history, and has ample dining and entertainment opportunities, with easy access to larger urban areas such as Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk and Richmond.

Virginia Recommended for Retirement by Marketwatch.com

In 2013, a writer from Marketwatch.com, a savvy online financial publication, recommended locations across the Commonwealth of Virginia as ideal for retirement. Locations included: Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Roanoke, Winchester and Charlottesville. Virginia's low(er) property tax rates compared to Northeastern states, its central location in the Mid-South (making it convenient to Northern cities and states) and its mild climate with four seasons were cited as reasons for retiring here.

Current trends in purchasing real estate for the Baby Boomers: Aging in Place

The aging in place lifestyle is a desirable one for many, especially those who do not wish to end up in retirement communities, but would rather be in their own home while they age. For the Boomer who wants to age in place, selecting the right property will allow this person this choice, without moving. First floor dwellings with attached garages as well as no exterior maintenance of a property are some characteristics of a residence where one may easily age in place. Boomers are also looking for homes convenient to shopping, doctors, children and grandchildren.

How are Boomers' Housing Needs Defined?

Often a Boomer's housing needs close to or nearing retirement will shift. Many will require less space than the family home once provided, - perhaps considering a 1,000-2,000 square feet home rather than 3,000-4,000. Preference will be given to homes with easy entrance and exits on the first floor with none - or very few - steps.
For the Boomer wanting to purchase a second home intended as a retirement property for a full time residence at a later date, the same parameters may apply. A desirable location in a quiet area with low property taxes (maybe even out-of-state) will be the most likely impetus for a move for many Boomers.

As the Baby Boomers mature and become the 'silver tsunami,' expected lifespans are lengthening, too. So, if a Boomer retires at 60 or 65, he or she may enjoy another 15 to 20 years of independence, provided good health prevails. Choosing the right housing for retirement is an important decision that will potentially impact a Boomer for decades to come and should be thought out carefully. Rely on a professional REALTOR to help make the right choice in purchasing a home for retirement. Visit http://www.voncannnonrealestate.com for more information on homes for sale in Virginia.

First Time Homebuyers in Virginia Real Estate Market: Millennial Children Come of Age

By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, Associate Broker, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winning Agent

Millennial Children are the youth of America, now coming of age when it comes to owning their first home. Millennial buyers are between 18-34 and their financial lives are much different then their forbears. Challenges many have faced include: unemployment, high student loan debts and tight credit. So, for many Millennial Children, their ability to purchase and finance a home has been curbed in their twenties. But as they enter their thirties, Millennials are going to be an increasingly large group in the home buying market. In National Association of Realtors (NAR) "Field Guide to Millennial Home Buyers," updated in August 2014, the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University found, "the number of households in their 30s should increase by 2.7 million over the coming decade, which should boost the demand for new housing."

The entry of Millennial children into the home buying market is a good sign that home sales are improving. When first time homebuyers are a significant part of the real estate market (currently nearly 40%) it means the real estate market is stabilizing and even trending upward.

For many first time homebuyers, the ability to make a down payment of 5% or more plus closing costs is a significant barrier. Real estate industry researchers estimate fifty percent of Millennial Children will ask their parents or someone in their family for the money for a down payment for a home. The other 50% will aspire to be homeowners with their own resources. In order to qualify for mortgage financing, these Millennial Children must be employed and in good standing with their credit.

For REALTORS selling to the Millennial group, the steps to purchase a first home have not changed, though the needs of this particular age group are different then their predecessors – Generations X and Y. These older generations purchased their first homes during more prosperous economic times when jobs were plentiful. Many were able to hold onto their properties during the recession and are now looking at selling and moving to upgrade for more space or downsize for retirement. Millennials will be their buyers - and so will active Baby Boomers.

There are a few options REALTORS can recommend to first time homebuyers pressed for down payments and closing costs. If Millennnial Children have good credit and want help with the down payment and/or closing costs, some states may provide this sort of assistance, with special programs that backend costs onto the mortgage and/or charge zero interest on the amount needed, or even forgive the down payment debt after a certain number of years.

Home Ownership Assistance Programs for First Time Homebuyers in Virginia

For the first time homebuyer in Virginia, it is worthwhile looking into loan programs by the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA). The goal of the VHDA is to help Virginians acquire quality, affordable housing. There are multiple 30 year-fixed rate mortgage programs to choose from: conventional fixed rate mortgages, an FHA insured loan with low down payments or FHA Plus - with a second mortgage to finance a down payment. Depending upon the area where the home is purchased, a homebuyer may be eligible for a Rural Housing Services (RHS) government insured zero down payment loans. There are also Veterans Administration loans for those who qualify. VHDA is a privately funded organization that makes all of these programs available through one agency and makes it easy to apply. Visit http://www.vhda.com for more information on home lending programs.

First Time Home Buyer Savings Plans (FHSPs)

In 2014, The legislature of the Commonwealth of Virginia, recognizing first time home purchases are an indicator the economy is healthy and growing, decided to implement a program to strengthen this market. The First-time Homebuyer Savings Plan (FHSP) was established to stimulate more first time home sales now and in the future. The FHSP can be set up by any resident of the Commonwealth as a state tax-free savings account that can accrue up to $50,000 towards the cost of down payments for home purchases in Virginia. These special savings accounts are only sheltered from state taxes, so long as funds are used to purchase a home in Virginia. The future homeowners, or their parents or relatives that want to save money on their behalf may establish FHSP accounts. If the funds are used for anything except purchasing a first home, then the funds are subject to the usual Commonwealth of Virginia taxes and fees.

The FHSP program in Virginia is another example of the way in which first time homebuyers are being encouraged to complete their first home purchase, and move the economy forward.

Besides securing financing for a home, first time homebuyers have other decisions to make before purchasing. The property should be a good investment that will be conducive to resale if the homeowner wants to step up to another property. A first home is most likely to be a good investment if it is located convenient to shopping, dining and entertainment. A detailed look at a home inspection will reveal any pressing problems with the property and title insurance must be able to be obtained. A good, qualified REALTOR can handle all of these inquiries and details. For more information on homes for sale in Virginia that are perfect for first time homebuyers, contact: voncannonrealestate@cox.net or visithttp://www.voncannonrealestate.com.

Types of Historic Homes for Sale in Southeastern Virginia

By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, Associate Broker, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winning Agent

Virginia has a rich history dating to the Colonial era and also a wide variety of historic homes and properties for sale. It was one of the first places colonized by the British and is also known for Civil War era structures as well as Late 19th and Early 20th Century homes. When it comes to purchasing historical properties, the home buyer has various choices in Virginia. There are rural and urban historic homes for sale across the Commonwealth of Virginia today, from many different eras and in various conditions.

It takes a special type of home owner to purchase and renovate or restore a historic home. Oftentimes, historic home purchasers are so enthusiastic about history they want to preserve part of our American heritage by living in or restoring a historic property. While many are passionate about history, they also seek special amenities such as equestrian facilities or waterfront docks and want to live in unique properties with maximum privacy in a secure, quiet setting.

The Classic Virginia Estate

A classic example of an estate property found in Virginia would date from the late19th Century and be made from brick - in the Colonial style. This style of custom built estate home may still retain many of its original features such as cathedral ceilings and multiple fireplaces. Original details like walnut bannisters and yellow pine floors, brass locks and fittings, chair rails and built in bookcases may still be in place. Many of these scenic, expansive Virginia estate properties are surrounded by fresh water ponds or streams and even offer waterfront access with docks on property. Historic properties may offer hardwood forests, meadows, equestrian facilities and water features as well as multiple outbuildings. Even with these amenities, privacy and 19th Century charm, many historic properties with at least five acres can be purchased for around one million to five million dollars. Compared to single family home pricing in many urban markets such as San Francisco, New York City and Boston, Virginia estates are an affordable acquisition. Those who have the means for this lifestyle - and are prepared to maintain a property of this size - find the extra luxuries extremely satisfying and worth the price.

Renovation/Restoration Budget

Investors in historic homes in Virginia may want to include a renovation (or restoration) budget in their purchase plans. Finding the right historic property is the first step. Renovating or restoring the property can make all the difference in quality of life there. Customizing a historic property for an individual or family lifestyle will be important to making it feel more like a home.

Historic Homes in Richmond and Henrico County Virginia

In downtown Richmond and areas such as Shockoe Slip and the Fan, there are many 1920s ad 1930s Art deco homes to choose from. Since restoration of the historic district began in the 1970s, Shockoe Slip has now become a premiere shopping and dining destination in Virginia. The Fan is in close proximity to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) making it a popular section of Richmond. Many historic estate properties and farmhouses are located just outside of Richmond in Henrico County.

Rural and Urban Historic Homes in Virginia

The Southeastern portion of Virginia, also known as the Tidewater region or Hampton Roads, was the site of original English colonization. Many historic properties have waterfront access and docks because boats were a main form of transportation in Early America.

In rural areas, such as Surry and Charles City, Virginia, buyers will find historic farmhouses and even plantations along the James River and its tributaries. While a search for a historic home in Williamsburg, James and York City Counties will yield many 18th and 19th Century urban properties. Many of Williamsburg's historic properties are owned by Colonial Williamsburg Foundation or the College of William and Mary. But the Foundation and College do not exclusively own all Williamsburg historic properties. The buyer will find numerous historic treasures in Williamsburg and in surrounding counties because Williamsburg was the 18th Century capital of Virginia and attracted many prominent residents, artisans, students and families as well as those charged with governance.

Historic Homes in the Northern Neck of the Chesapeake Bay

In Gloucester and Gloucester Point Virginia and areas north of here, such as Mathews and Gwyn's Island, the seafaring way of life has been a longstanding tradition. These areas are known for historic sea cottages and estate properties built on the York River, Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Many of these historic properties are waterfront, with docks. Today these tranquil areas are known as the Northern Neck of the Chesapeake Bay. The Northern Neck is not highly populated and it is the perfect environment for the waterman, those who love boating - or people who simply enjoy being on or near the water.

Smithfield & Isle of Wight County: Hidden Historic Homes

Across the River from Williamsburg, Virginia, many historic homes can be found in Smithfield and surrounding Isle of Wight County. I once sold an 18th Century cottage in downtown Smithfield to an editor of the Daily Press. This was the oldest home in Smithfield. Like many who purchase historic homes, this particular buyer had a passion for history, and she fell in love with the home, its history, and its location. Outside of Smithfield in Isle of Wight County, there are many historic estates, farmhouses and even plantations.

Whether it's a love of history, or wanting to live a luxurious lifestyle on an estate in Virginia, historic home buyers find a wide variety of choices across the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Southeastern part of Virginia has a plentiful amount of historic properties, largely due to its proximity to the coast and coastal rivers as well as being deeply rooted in Colonial history. Learn more about historic homes in Virginia for sale, call Elaine VonCannon at 757-288-4685 or email voncannonrealestate@cox.net. Visit http://www.estatesinvirginia.com for more information about Virginia estates currently for sale.