April 2013 Coldwell Banker Fairfax Energy Smart Newsletter

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 April 2013 



Seeking a way to boost your home’s energy efficiency? Just look up! Attics can be a significant source of energy loss, so making some relatively minor changes now will have a major impact on reducing energy bills in the future.


Is there a draft in here?

Caulk Attic

Ceilings appear to be solid surfaces, but gaps and openings leak air into attic spaces and increase home heating and cooling costs. From below your attic, check the ceilings and note the locations of all light fixtures, ceiling fans and electrical outlets, then find them again from the attic side. Gaps should be sealed from above using caulk or spray foam. Click here for more information. 


Lower bills by boosting insulation

 

Insulation Attic
One of the most cost-effective ways to save on energy bills and make your home more comfortable year-round is to add insulation to your attic, including the attic hatch or door. Examine your uncovered attic floor: If the insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, you probably need to add more insulation. Make sure not to block the attic vents.  


Don’t just insulate: ventilate!

 

Roof Vent

Ventilate your attic space. Proper attic ventilation systems allow a continual flow of outside air through the attic, protecting the insulation’s efficiency and helping to lower temperatures in the living space. It also reduces the potential for “ice damming” in winter and prevents overheating in summer, which removes moisture and protects roof shingles. For more information, click here.

 


4000 Legato RD
Fairfax, VA 22033
703-691-1400 (O)
571-213-5218 (C)

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Gary Lange
Managing Broker


tip 

 

If you’re having a new roof installed, consider adding a ridge vent. This provides the best attic ventilation and runs along the entire ridge of the roof, allowing hot air to rise out of the home. 

       

 

 



Real Estate Market Absorption in March 2013 for Northern Virginia and Washington DC

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Closed sales for Northern Virginia in March were up +4.02% year over year. Average sales price was up +10.57% while inventory (2,443) and days on market (48) continue to decline -29% and -33.33% respectively. Properties are going under contract within days of going on the market with multiple offers and escalation clauses. I’ve heard of as many as 29 offers on a property. Keep in mind if you have more homes going off the market (under contract) than coming on the market (new listing), there is pressure on prices to go up. As you will see in all price points under $700,000, this is what we are experiencing. Check out the latest market absorption for the Northern Virginia and DC markets. www.fairfaxcb.com

Coldwell Banker March 2013 Real Estate Market Watch for Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC

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April 2013 
Coldwell Banker Market Watch
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Spring Rushes In
This year, the spring selling season has kicked off with an early, energetic start. Sales associates are reporting increased showings at open houses, multiple offers on properties and offers above asking price – often within weeks or days. The market now favors sellers, making buyers anxious to take advantage of low interest rates and lower prices before they rise. Check the links to the right to see the activity in our community, or ask me for an overview of local current market trends. Here are a few tips for both buyers and sellers that should make the process easier.

Buyers, review your credit score. A solid score can help you lock in a lower interest rate and get a mortgage pre-approval, which you will need in this fast-paced environment. Determine your housing preferences and contact a Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage sales associate for professional assistance through the entire process.

Sellers, homes are selling quickly, so you’ll need to do some spring cleaning, painting and sprucing. Have an inspection done and address key issues before placing your home on the market. If you are thinking of placing your home on the market, contact Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage today. An associate will complete a competitive market analysis, review competing homes and determine the inventory levels in your locale and price point.

4000 Legato RD
Suite 100
Fairfax, VA 22033
703-691-1400

Gary Lange

Managing Broker
Equal Housing Opportunity
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©2013 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. Equal Housing Lender. Unauthorized duplication, use, or linkage is prohibited.


February 2013 Real Estate Market Absorption Stats for Northern Virginia and Washington DC

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Closed sales for Northern Virginia in February were up +13.59% year over year. Average sales price was up +8.95% while inventory (2,207) and days on market (55) continue to decline -33% and -26.67% respectively. Most properties are going under contract within 7 days with multiple offers and escalation clauses. Keep in mind that if you have more houses going off the market under contract than coming on the market, then there is pressure on prices to go up. Take a look at the price points and areas where the prices are going up. Check out the latest market absorption for the Northern Virginia and DC markets.