Williamsburg, Virginia: 18th Century Colonial Capital

A Place in American History: Williamsburg, Virginia
Nestled in the green pastureland between the James and York Rivers, Williamsburg Virginia was not only the Colonial capital of Virginia, but also a center of commerce and culture. Williamsburg is no different today. With Busch Gardens & Water Country and the historical Colonial Williamsburg Foundation as main attractions and Historic Jamestown and Yorktown Battlefields on either end of the scenic Colonial Parkway, Williamsburg has plenty to offer residents and visitors in natural beauty, fun, and history.


Famous Americans from Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is the current home of rock star Bruce Hornsby. Football player Lawrence Taylor has also lived in Williamsburg. In addition, there have been many famous early American figures who either passed through Williamsburg or had important business there; these include: Thomas Jefferson, George and Martha Washington, and many more.


Waterfront Estates and Historic Property in Williamsburg Virginia
Kingsmill is one of the oldest and most prestigious gated communities in Williamsburg, and is partially situated on the banks of the James River. Governor's Land is another exclusive gated community, situated at the intersection of the Chickahominy and James Rivers, just off historic Route 5. There are also numerous older neighborhoods in the Williamsburg area that date back to the Colonial era where refurbished historic homes can be purchased.


Fine Dining in Williamsburg Virginia
There are several excellent colonial taverns owned by Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, where guests may eat an authentic British meal in a setting comparable to a pub of the 18th Century. Chowning's Tavern, Shields Tavern, King's Arms Tavern and Christiana Campbell's are the main pubs of Colonial Williamsburg. For those who prefer continental or ethnic food, The Trellis, on the Duke of Gloucester Street, is a good choice. The Second Street Tavern and Casa Maya Mexican Restaurant, both in Williamsburg, also provide savory dishes and an excellent atmosphere.


Historical Landmarks in Williamsburg, Virginia
The historical landmarks in Williamsburg are too numerous to list. But a brief overview of some historical highlights in Williamsburg will follow. Historic Jamestown is the National Park Service site that was settled as a fort in 1607, and this sits at the south end of Williamsburg. The site of former colonial Virginia Governor William Berkely's mansion was burned, but the ruins remain just off Route 5 and are also being carefully dug, studied and preserved by archeologists and historians. Colonial Williamsburg Foundation also offers a tour of the entire town of Williamsburg for one inclusive price that allows visitors access to the colonial homes, pubs, the capital, the old jail, and more. Residents of the Williamsburg area may obtain a Good Neighbors pass for year round access to Colonial Williamsburg.


Marinas and Boat Launches in Williamsburg Virginia
There are several excellent marinas in Williamsburg with access to the James River and its estuaries. These include the Jamestown Yacht Basin, Kingsmill Marina, and Two Rivers Country Club Marina, which is located at the intersection of the James and Chickahominy Rivers. Waller Mill Park also offers public boat launch for private crafts.

Jamestown Yacht Basin is one of the most popular marinas located on Powhatan Creek, nearby Historic Jamestown, at the south end of Williamsburg. Speedboats and jet skis are permitted to launch from this marina. Boats coming via the Colonial Parkway, on trailers, are limited to 12 feet, due to tunnels. The Yacht Basin has 125 wet slips, which are usually booked. Jamestown Yacht Basin is the only covered marina in James City County.


Williamsburg Winery and a Brewing Company
Williamsburg Winery produces approximately 60,000 cases of wine per year. The winery is convenient to the historic district, just off Route 199, and it's a great place to purchase Virginia wine. Tours and tastings are offered daily, even on Sundays. The Gabriel Archer Tavern is adjacent to the winery and offers lunch daily and dinner Thursday through Monday. For the beer lover, Williamsburg AleWerks sells crafted brews in a variety. Williamsburg Alewerks is open from Monday through Saturday from 12:00 to 5:30 for tours and souvenirs.


Williamsburg Virginia Culture and Entertainment
Residents of Williamsburg may obtain a Good Neighbors pass from Colonial Williamsburg Foundation for a special year round fee after providing proof of residency. This allows the pass holder to attend performances in the evenings, usually Colonial era theater and historical re-enactments. The College of William and Mary has an excellent theater and music series which is open to the public. The Virginia Symphony performs regularly in Williamsburg, just off Ironbound Road. And, the Williamsburg Library is a centrally located place to attend a wide range of events related to art, culture, music, writing and more.


Williamsburg Virginia Outdoor Recreation
With the Colonial Parkway, Colonial Williamsburg, and the scenic James River running through Williamsburg there is always plenty for the outdoor enthusiast to do. This is a wonderful place for biking or hiking. Boating and fishing is also popular in many of the estuaries of the James and York Rivers. Williamsburg is also an ideal place for bird watching, especially at Jamestown Island and along the Colonial Parkway, where great bald eagles can be sighted, and migratory birds can be seen moving south in October and November. The eagles have been nesting, and returning to the Williamsburg area for over a decade.


Williamsburg Location in Proximity to Major Cities
Williamsburg is conveniently located about 45 minutes drive from Richmond and Norfolk, Virginia, both major urban areas. Nearby areas offer dining, entertainment, shopping, and culture on a larger scale than found in Williamsburg. A drive to Virginia Beach takes about an hour and fifteen minutes from Williamsburg. Williamsburg is a great place to have a quiet home, and it is close enough to commute to work in these urban areas, and just far enough away to leave the stress behind.


Colleges in Williamsburg Virginia
The College of William and Mary is located in Williamsburg and is a central hub for the town. Because it's the second oldest college in the nation, the architecture on campus is extraordinary and dates back to the Colonial Era. A wide range of academic programs are available to students at this Commonwealth of Virginia college. Thomas Nelson Community College is projected to open a New Historic Triangle Campus in the spring of 2009. Community college classes and adult education will all take place in this 120,000 square foot facility near Warhill High School.

Contemporary Williamsburg Virginia
Contemporary Williamsburg is an ideal location to retire, relocate, purchase a second home, or raise a family. Email vonmor1@cox.net or call Elaine VonCannon at 757-288-4685 for information about real estate for sale in Southeastern Virginia, and especially Williamsburg.

Visit my web sites to view other listings at www.voncannonrealestate.com www.estatesinvirginia.com www.elainesrealestate.com You will also find articles and more information on homes, the Virginia real estate market and my team.

Home for Sale in Williamsburg VA: 4/3 with All the Amenities You Expect

Beautiful 2 story home with over an acre in Oakland Estates, Williamsburg, Virginia,
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Corian counters, ceramic tile & hardwood flrs. 3rd flr is finished w/heat & air. Open Great Rm w/fireplace & Built-ins. Formal Dining & Living Rms. Plenty of rm for your family. New roof. Acreage zoned A1. New granite counters in Master Bath, new ceramic flr in hall bath.

For more listings in Williamsburg, VA visit: http://www.voncannonrealestate.com or call 757-288-4685.

Live and Play in Your Own Backyard: Golf Communities in Williamsburg

By: Elaine VonCannon ABR, SRES, REALTOR, Notary, Team Leader, Residential and Commercial Property Manager, Managing Partner VonCannon-Starke Commercial Division, Member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, Award Winning Agent, RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Licensed in Virginia, Member of Commercial Council VAR, Director WAAR MLS Board

Golf has long been one of the favorite leisure activities of professional and retired individuals. In Williamsburg, Virginia and surrounding areas, the professional and retiree can play golf on many renowned golf courses. The devoted golf enthusiast may desire even more than this. For some golfers, the ultimate immersion in the sport means moving to a golf community. In and around Williamsburg, Virginia a concentration of great courses and elegant golf communities make it the perfect place for the golfer to live, work, or retire.

Check with individual communities, but most have additional amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and restaurants. Home buyers at most golf communities may choose to live in Planned Unit Development homes with maintenance included for a monthly fee in addition to a homeowners association fee.

The Golf Club at Brickshire

In addition to being a Curtis Strange signature course, the Golf Club at Brickshire also offers the golfer opportunities to play emulation holes from August National, Saint Andrews, Pinehurst #2, and Riviera Country Club. Brickshire is a relatively new 18 hole course that is only three years old at the date of this writing and has been described as "player friendly" by avid golfers. Golf Digest recently gave the Brickshire course a 4 1/2 star rating.

Home buyers may choose from newly built and custom built attached and detached homes.
The Tradition Golf Club at Stonehouse
This stunning 18 hole golf course in New Kent County Virginia has been described as a challenging course that is larger than life. Featuring oversized greens and tremendous vistas, it is characterized by deep bunkers and long carries. In 2002, Stonehouse was awarded 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest.


Kingsmill Resort and Spa

Kingsmill is the oldest gated golf community in Williamsburg and is home to three 18 hole golf courses, a marina and a conference center. The River course was once the site of the PGA Tour and is now the location of the LPGA tour's Michelob ULTRA open. In 2004 the original architect, Pete Dye, returned to oversee The River's renovation, which included resurfacing of greens and the addition of new fairway bunkering. Some golfers prefer the Plantation course, an Arnold Palmer design with generous fairway landing areas and water near eight holes. The Woods Course, designed by Tom Clark, has unique features such as a double green with a bunker in the middle shared by the par-3 twefth hole and par-4 fifteenth hole.

Kingsmill is one of the most prestigious communities in Williamsburg. All homes are custom built.

Ford's Colony

Ford's Colony, like Kingsmill, has three 18 hole courses. All were designed by Dan Maples. Choose from the Marsh Hawk Course, Blackheath Course, or the Blue Heron Course. Visit http://wwww.fordscolony.com to take a virtual tour of each course.

Home buyers interested in living at Ford's Colony will find lots available for home building sites, newly custom built homes, and resells of custom built homes.

Greensprings Plantation

At Greensprings Plantation, golfers come from near and far to play 18 holes on the Williamsburg National Golf Course designed by Jim Lipe of Jack Nicklaus Design Associates.
Lots are available for home building sites, newly custom built homes and resells of custom built homes.

Governor's Land

Governor's Land is known for its high dollar elaborate homes and quiet seclusion on the James River. Two Rivers golf course was designed by the three-time golf architect of the year Tom Fazio. Admission to this course is only granted to members of the Two Rivers Country Club. This 18 hole course runs along the James River, which provides a scenic backdrop for a game. The design takes advantage of the natural contours of the river, marshlands, ravines, and woodlands.

Residents of Governor's Land enjoy full use of a marina, and life in the most exclusive, high end community in Williamsburg.

Home buyers may purchase lots to build new homes, newly custom built homes, or resells of custom built homes.

For the golfing enthusiast, an opportunity to live so close to the game is paramount. In Williamsburg Virginia, the golf capital of the East Coast, golf communities abound. Call me at 757-288-4685 or e-mail at voncannonrealestate@cox.net. I am a REALTOR who is in the know about these communities. I'll be happy to help you locate the home that fits your needs and lands you as close to the game of golf as you dream of being. Visit VonCannonRealEstate.com to view listings for Golf Communities in Williamsburg, VA.

10 Tips on Investing in Distressed or Foreclosed Properties

1. Search on the world wide web for distressed or foreclosed properties as a starting point. Use a professional REALTOR to identify great foreclosure deals for you. You may be successful at searching the web on your own, but keep in mind some of the information is outdated, some may be incorrect, and some of the available properties are not even listed. A REALTOR subscribes to updated MLS listings and can offer you the most current information available.

2. If you search yourself for distressed properties and purchase from the selling agent, you are paying a commission to someone with a vested interest. Obtain objectivity in the sale by working with your own REALTOR. You won't pay any more. Technically, everyone works for the seller, since they pay the commission.

3. With distressed or foreclosed properties, time is of the essence. Purchasers must close on the date specified by the agency, and cannot close after this without penalties of $25-200 per day.

4. It takes 1-3 weeks to qualify a loan. If you are approved for a loan, make sure you are qualified by your lender as soon as possible. If you are paying by cash, make certain funds are available. If finances are in order, the REALTOR will then submit an offer. When the offer is accepted by both seller and buyer, the REALTOR will submit the ratified contract to the lender and closing agent. These steps will begin the process of a successful real estate transaction.

5. When purchasing a distressed property, always obtain 3-4 bids from different contractors to estimate costs of repairs, if you do not plan on doing the work yourself.

6. If you are going to sell the property after rehabilitating it, ask your REALTOR to research similar properties in the neighborhood to ascertain market price.

7. Keep copious records for tax deductions. Any expenses related to the purchase, repair, or maintenance of the property may qualify. Meticulous records are key to a profitable real estate venture.

8. The title you receive after purchasing a distressed or foreclosed property is a special warranty deed rather than a general warranty deed. Some buyers are alarmed by this, but there is no need to worry. The purchase of title insurance protects the buyer. Each lender purchases insurance to protect the loan as well. Titling insurance should be obtained by the property purchaser. It is always offered by the closing agent. Consider using an attorney instead of a titling company as your closing agent. An attorney is only $50-75 more than a titling company. A real estate attorney can remedy any situation that may arise. Therefore, they are more efficient representatives on time sensitive foreclosure properties.

9. Foreclosure properties require special addendums and special contracts by the individual bank and HUD office (where applicable).

10. Foreclosure properties are potentially the most profitable, but require the most attention to detail. A REALTOR experienced in foreclosure deals is highly desirable because the paperwork must be in order to submit a proper bid, and timeliness is critical.

Visit VonCAnnnonRealEstate.com for more information on foreclosures for sale in VA.

Renovations and Upgrades: Bring it to the Bank - Part 1

Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, Notary Public, Team Manager

Renovations and upgrades can increase the value of your home by thousands of dollars when done strategically, intelligently and professionally. Even if you renovate for personal reasons, consider the key areas that will put money back in your pocket. The kitchen and the bathrooms are first choice upgrades that translate into more money later. Bedrooms can also create incredible appeal or end up a serious turn off. Make certain your renovations or upgrades reflect the property values of your neighborhood. Don't overdo it with costly materials if you cannot recoup your costs when you sell your property.

Five Secrets To Upgrading The Kitchen
The kitchen is the heartbeat of a home; everyone goes to the kitchen. When you are entertaining guests the flow often moves to the kitchen. The kitchen is also a key component for any homebuyer. If you follow a few basic suggestions your upgrade decisions will serve you well in the long term. If you are still dwelling in the house think about what works best with your lifestyle.

Always consider functionality and durability when you construct kitchen countertops. First, don't use tile countertops. Grout is difficult to clean and ages quickly unless it is sealed properly. If you have a lot of children or cook every night, you may not want to use newer, porous material since it scratches easily. Second, when altering the kitchen cabinets you can paint wood, but use washable paint, not water based paint. If you do not want to paint or replace all the cabinets change the hardware or consider adding new doors. Third, wallpaper in the kitchen is not a good idea. The heat and grease builds up and it is not very durable. Most people either love or hate wallpaper. Eighty percent of my buyers do not prefer wallpaper. Fourth, evaluate the cost of flooring alternatives like high-grade vinyl, wood flooring or ceramic tile. Do not use "stick 'em" tiles because they do not wear well and can detract from the value of your kitchen. Fifth, update the sinks, faucets and light fixtures for a bigger pay off. Most importantly be sure the kitchen is bright, airy and cheerful. These recommendations will increase the attractiveness and value of one of the most important rooms in the house.

Bathroom Do's and Don'ts
The bathroom is another room buyers love to examine carefully; you will want it to have a lot of appeal. If you can see a ring around your tub for each child then it's time to replace or reface it. The shower and bathroom tiles must be clean, replace tiles that are in bad shape. Ceramic tiles are the best choice for flooring and new sinks. Be certain the grout and caulk are orderly and neat. New counters, sinks, light fixtures and cabinetry will enable you to get more return on your investment. Do not use wallpaper, since it does not hold up well in a moist environment.

Everyone Needs Personal Space
In a home the bedrooms become each person's sanctuary. The layout and bedroom size can affect the appeal of your space. If you have small bedrooms consider taking a wall or two out and opening the space up. For example, five small bedrooms can be transformed into three larger bedrooms. If the home lacks in closet space closet organizers can help maximize space. Freshen up the light fixtures; even match them to individual décor. A chair rail or crown molding also adds value. Of course, upgrading the carpet or wood floor also makes the rooms more enticing. When you replace the carpet buy high quality padding, despite the added expense. Cheap padding will not be a long lasting upgrade.
Time is Up... Tune In next Time!

Now that you have some tools, you are ready to make your first steps towards a better home. Thinking strategically is the key to increased value and perfect home improvements. Two more important tips: keep all of your permits on file when you decide to resell and consider hiring a professional when renovating your home. Good luck with your current projects! Visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com/articles/Renovations_and_Upgrades_Bring_it_to_the_Bank_Part_2.php for Part 2 of "Renovations and Upgrades: Bring It To The Bank" to learn more about the other rooms in your home, exterior maintenance and the importance of garages, fences and more.

Look Past the Bottom Line for a Property's Potential

This year, investment in the stock market is making many downright jittery. Though overall the stock market does seem to be hovering around the 10,000 mark, many investors are plagued with uncertainty about short and long term investments in the stock market. Will stocks go up or down this week? Is now to time to keep money in the market? Or take money out of the stock market?

As a real estate professional, I always advise people to continue to invest in property. With so many bank owned properties flooding many different markets, real estate investors are actively purchasing homes and investment properties and obtaining some great deals right now.

John Starke, an Investment Advisor and Financial Principle with American Beacon Partners, says that many investors have grown tired of the risk involved in purchasing equities, mutual funds, and other types of investments. Prior to the sharp downturn in the market in 2008, investors’ goals were to accrue money through appreciation. “Rather than nervously watch their portfolios go up and down, investors want a more stable income,” noted Starke. He sees a rise in interest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Tax Free and Corporate Bonds, and even some Corporate CDs. “Many investors are pulling their money from equities and mutual funds and opting for investments that pay a decent, regular return on their money,” said Starke.

In my everyday real estate transactions, I see investors pulling large sums of money from the stock market and putting it into the purchase of homes and properties in Virginia. I have taken the time to ask real estate investors their opinion about stock market investments. Many have decided that the stock market is not for them right now. One investor, J. D., purchased a property in King William County, Virginia that was in foreclosure for $90,000. She will spend approximately $4,000 to prepare the property for the rental market and be able to collect a monthly income of $1,000 from her investment. J.D. told me “I feel the time is right to start investing in real estate again. I stopped four years ago when property prices got out of hand. I intend to do even more real estate investment now.”

Another client, who plans to retire in a few years, is selling one commercial property investment in order to purchase a strip mall in the Western Virginia town where he plans to retire. He will pay the purchase price and invest approximately $40,000 into the strip mall to prepare it for the commercial rental market. He told me, “I am tired of having a business that I have to work at everyday. I want to have an investment that will work for me as I am planning to retire in about two years.” His upcoming shift in lifestyle is motivation for his new commercial property investment. Note that he’s not selling one business and putting the money into the market. This may have been the trend for a retiree five years ago – but not in the new economy.

Finally, H.G. in Hampton, Virginia made a wise move with money he once had in the stock market. He purchased a condominium for $50,000, invested $2,500 in the property renovations, and is now receiving $850 per month in rental income for the unit. HG said, “I am making more of a return from my property investment than I would in the stock market, and I also receive a tax deduction to boot.”

There are of course risks in real estate investments. A tenant could default on the rental agreement, or a property could remain vacant for months on end. That is why it is imperative that real estate investors hire experienced and knowledgeable property managers to maximize their investment. All of the property investors mentioned in this article are using my property management services for their real estate investments. Other risks include unforeseen maintenance and repair issues. This is why it is important for property investors to put a portion of their profits aside to reinvest in the home, condominium or townhouse they purchase.

Where property investment is concerned, even these risks, when anticipated and well-planned for, are small compared to the uncertainty of stock investments.

Shawn Tully, Senior Editor at Large for Fortune magazine, published “2010's Coming Stock Market Crash: 1987 all Over Again” in May 2010. He states that stocks are still overpriced. He predicts a low return on investment (or a loss) as an inevitable outcome of this scenario. Tully bolsters his opinion with these astute observations: “Here's how I see the odds. The chances are about one in three that we suffer a huge, wrenching correction in the next year or two similar to the one in 1987. That possibility is so high because stocks are so startlingly expensive. Another high probability event is that markets go on a long sideways grind, with smaller drops along the way. What's extremely unlikely is that the market rises substantially from current levels and stays there for any extended period.”

Experts within the financial industry may be reluctant to put forth the strong opinion that Tully articulates. Still, there is no denying that investors have undergone a major shift in perspective since the financial crisis of late 2008 culminated in a recession, took hold of the United States and spread to other countries.

People will always need a place to live. With more and more families sadly experiencing foreclosure and dislocation, renting will be their most likely option. More rental properties will be necessary to fulfill housing demands. Investors need to take a serious look at property investment in their areas, and take steps to purchase viable homes even if they are in need of some repair or upgrades.

Visit http://VonCannonRealEstate.com to view potential investment property listings in Virginia in Williamsburg, Hampton, Newport News, Yorktown, Richmond and Northern Neck areas such as Matthews, Northumberland and King and Queen Counties.