10 tips on how to write an offer letter
By Sam DeBord Real Estate News
Homebuyers trying to stand out from a crowd of offers in today’s competitive market are often told to write a personal letter to accompany their offer. Buyers who are financing a home, or have a smaller down payment, often have trouble competing with all-cash buyers. Appealing to the seller as a person, as opposed to a contract, can sometimes give a buyer an emotional edge.
What isn’t often explained to buyers is how exactly to write that letter. The best ideas are often squandered by poor execution. Here is a quick guide to framing the home buyer letter and leveraging your best attributes by thinking from the seller’s point of view:
1) Flatter First
This is an emotional pitch. You’re attempting to tell the seller, “I’m such a good person that you should ignore the numbers.” They need to like you. Tell the seller how great their taste in color is, how much you’d love to have their lifestyle, and what an amazing neon bottle cap exhibit they have over the fireplace. Lay it on thick, but keep it sincere. You’re selling, but you don’t want them to feel like they’re being sold a used car.
2) Get To The Point
You may have 10 great ideas that you’d like to tell the seller. They will only remember two. The seller may have 10 other letters to read. If you mix in your best points with your lesser points, they may all just become a jumble.
Pick two or three reasons why you will be the best buyer for this home, and make them distinctly recognizable. The more streamlined you make your message, the more memorable it will be.
3) Paint A Picture
People remember what they’ve read at a far higher rate when they can see a picture of it in their head. “I really love this neighborhood because I’ve lived here and gone to school here,” doesn’t resonate.
On the other hand, “I spend half of my time walking the cobblestone streets around this block, dropping my daughter off at Gilman School and volunteering at Schnitzelfest every summer,” will trigger a visual memory for a seller. Think “I’d be so happy in the summer to be cooking Neapolitan pizza for friends and neighbors in your outdoor wood-fired oven”.
4) Don’t Remodel The House
Planning on adding a second story or changing the landscaping? Don’t mention it. You might be correct that the seller’s sewing room would make a great workout room for you, but this isn’t the time.
If you’re going to expand to create more bedrooms, you might be changing the seller’s favorite eyebrow windows in the roofline. They may have buried their dog under the tree you’re planning to pave over. he sellers may have awful taste, but homeowners are very protective of their homes.
5) Show Stability
Present yourself as a stable buyer who will have no problem closing the purchase. Whether that is a reference to your lack of contingencies, stellar employment record, or commitment to moving in as soon as the sellers are comfortable, ease the sellers’ fears of a shaky transaction.
6) Show Humility
At the same time, be humble and ask for the sellers’ blessing on your offer. “We would be so honored to live in your home,” goes much further than “We are confident that you will accept our generous offer.” The ball is in their court, and your letter should acknowledge that.
7) Don’t Whine
The emotion of your letter must be upbeat and high. It needs to make the seller feel good. Everyone wants to play with a winner.
The seller doesn’t care how many other homes you’ve lost out on. They don’t care that your rent just doubled. They don’t want to know about your wife’s sad condition that requires you to have a home like this. They just feel uncomfortable now. In fact, they’re already tossing your offer in the round file as they finish this paragraph.
8) Close With Clarity
Remember the five-point paragraphs and five-paragraph themes you had to write in school? While those formulas are too long and rigid for this letter, their closing advice should be noted. Your excitement, motivation, and ability should be reiterated at the end of your letter in a quick recap.
Remember that the sellers could be reading a few letters. Make sure that the closing of your letter reminds them of your best qualities and reinforces them.
9) Sign with Appreciation
The feeling your sellers will leave with can live or die on the signature line: “Sincerely”, “Cordially”, “Best Regards”, and “Yours Truly” do not apply. This is not a business correspondence of equals. Thank the sellers for spending their valuable evening reading the ode that you wrote about your unworthy self.
“Thank you so much for your time,” “Thank you for the opportunity,” “Your consideration is greatly appreciated,” or even “We are honored to have the opportunity,” will leave the seller understanding that you value their time and are grateful for it.
10) Spell Check. Grammar Check. Buddy Check. Do It Again.
As the recovering son of a former Catholic school English teacher, there is a dark secret I’d like to let you in on. We’re prejudiced. We look down on people who aren’t like us. There is a heinous belief ingrained in us from birth that says people who misspell and use incorrect grammar are lesser beings and not worthy of our respect.
Truthfully, though, there is an unbelievable amount of weight that some sellers will put on the preciseness of the letter. Right or wrong, the buyer’s personality will be judged from their attention to detail, ability to follow-through, and level of care in the letter. Buyer reliability is often gleaned from how well the rules of grammar are followed. If grammar isn’t your thing, find someone whose thing it is. You never know: the house you want to buy just might belong to my mother.
Write The Letter, Check It Twice, and Send It Off
There are many tactics being used by home buyers to stand out from the crowd. While not all sellers will read them, personalized letters are the most-accepted and popular form of unique buyer strategies available. Don’t rush the letter. Take the time to write it correctly. It just might be the most valuable single page of text you ever write.
Showing posts with label Arlington. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Arlington. Show all posts
Friday, May 24, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013
Seller's market tips
The market is great right now for sellers! That being said, here is a great article for seller's that are looking for the right agent. by Deidre Woollard-Real Estate News
Deciding to move isn’t a step anyone takes lightly. Your house is more than just an investment, it is your home. As you begin the process of distancing yourself from the place where you made so many lasting memories you will begin to think about what your home will be worth to someone else.
When you are ready to meet with a Realtor you may already have an idea of what your home is worth. You may have seen what other homes in your neighborhood have sold for or kept an eye on local listings. Your agent will prepare for you a comparative market analysis (CMA) that is an in-depth version of any research you may have done on your own.
The CMA is used to help evaluate how your home will fare against the competition. It takes a look at both homes that are currently listed and those recently sold. The purpose is to find the highest price that will still make the home competitive on the open market.
A Portrait Of Your Home And Its Surroundings
The CMA includes a fact-based portrait of the home including information such as number of bedrooms and baths, approximate square footage, size of major rooms, age of the home, property taxes, and desirable amenities such as fireplaces and pools.
Depending on the market the CMA will go back in time as long ago as a year or a month or week ago. The range can also vary. Some will just cover a few streets around your home, CMAs can cover areas as narrow as one or two streets surrounding your home, or as broad as an entire subdivision.
Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder (Or Potential Buyer)
Selling a home isn’t just about the facts. There are many pieces to the puzzle and it’s often the indefinables that impact a potential buyer’s perception of the home. A home purchase remains fundamentally personal. Speaking at the Luxury Roundtable: State of Luxury 2013 conference, Camilla Papale, the chief marketing officer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, defined real estate, especially at the high end, as being primarily emotional. She said that 90 percent of Douglas Elliman’s transactions are influenced by the buyer’s emotions versus rationalization. Perception can alter reality and so this is an important consideration when looking at a CMA. People make decisions based on curb appeal, light, design choices and many other factors.
At the end of each home’s information on the CMA report there will be a brief statement provided by the listing agent that will address some of these subjective factors such as recent remodels, historic features, or things that might be of interest to the buyers. The agent will be marketing the home and is already thinking about how it will be presented as a product to tempt the public.
The Changing Face of the CMA
The CMA today is different than it was before the internet era partly because the potential seller does so much of their homework ahead of time. Jeff Rightmyer, a sales agent with Building Bridges Partners Keller Williams explains how technology has changed the CMA: “If anything, it has increased the amount of avenues now available to display more accurate and precise information ranging from short sales, standards, all the way up to luxury. It also has allowed little room for error as clients can accurately research the information for themselves.”
There are still resources that agents have access to that most sellers do not. Also agents have the experience of listing, marketing, and selling many homes on their side. A local expert will know what buyers in the area look for and be able to easily assess how your home measures up. Together you and your agent can find a price that brings you what you need and will be attractive enough to attract your home’s new owner.
Deciding to move isn’t a step anyone takes lightly. Your house is more than just an investment, it is your home. As you begin the process of distancing yourself from the place where you made so many lasting memories you will begin to think about what your home will be worth to someone else.
When you are ready to meet with a Realtor you may already have an idea of what your home is worth. You may have seen what other homes in your neighborhood have sold for or kept an eye on local listings. Your agent will prepare for you a comparative market analysis (CMA) that is an in-depth version of any research you may have done on your own.
The CMA is used to help evaluate how your home will fare against the competition. It takes a look at both homes that are currently listed and those recently sold. The purpose is to find the highest price that will still make the home competitive on the open market.
A Portrait Of Your Home And Its Surroundings
The CMA includes a fact-based portrait of the home including information such as number of bedrooms and baths, approximate square footage, size of major rooms, age of the home, property taxes, and desirable amenities such as fireplaces and pools.
Depending on the market the CMA will go back in time as long ago as a year or a month or week ago. The range can also vary. Some will just cover a few streets around your home, CMAs can cover areas as narrow as one or two streets surrounding your home, or as broad as an entire subdivision.
Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder (Or Potential Buyer)
Selling a home isn’t just about the facts. There are many pieces to the puzzle and it’s often the indefinables that impact a potential buyer’s perception of the home. A home purchase remains fundamentally personal. Speaking at the Luxury Roundtable: State of Luxury 2013 conference, Camilla Papale, the chief marketing officer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, defined real estate, especially at the high end, as being primarily emotional. She said that 90 percent of Douglas Elliman’s transactions are influenced by the buyer’s emotions versus rationalization. Perception can alter reality and so this is an important consideration when looking at a CMA. People make decisions based on curb appeal, light, design choices and many other factors.
At the end of each home’s information on the CMA report there will be a brief statement provided by the listing agent that will address some of these subjective factors such as recent remodels, historic features, or things that might be of interest to the buyers. The agent will be marketing the home and is already thinking about how it will be presented as a product to tempt the public.
The Changing Face of the CMA
The CMA today is different than it was before the internet era partly because the potential seller does so much of their homework ahead of time. Jeff Rightmyer, a sales agent with Building Bridges Partners Keller Williams explains how technology has changed the CMA: “If anything, it has increased the amount of avenues now available to display more accurate and precise information ranging from short sales, standards, all the way up to luxury. It also has allowed little room for error as clients can accurately research the information for themselves.”
There are still resources that agents have access to that most sellers do not. Also agents have the experience of listing, marketing, and selling many homes on their side. A local expert will know what buyers in the area look for and be able to easily assess how your home measures up. Together you and your agent can find a price that brings you what you need and will be attractive enough to attract your home’s new owner.
Friday, May 10, 2013
How many people ask this question when they buy or sell a home?
What's the difference between a Appraisal and a Home Inspection? Real Estate news-Diedre Wollard
I thought that this article had some really great information.
When you are getting ready to sell your home, dealing with inspections and appraisals is part of the process. Your home is now a product that is being sold and needs to be evaluated. Many people think that appraisals and inspections are essentially the same thing but there are some key differences. If you’ve ever watched “Antiques Roadshow” on PBS, you’re already familiar with the concept of an appraisal on personal property. The idea is similar in the realm of real estate valuations. Each property is unique, and the appraiser relies on his or her general expertise and specific research to arrive at an opinion of value.
An appraisal provides valuable information for the buyer and the seller, but the appraiser’s primary mission is to protect the lender. Lenders don’t want to own overpriced property and that’s why the appraisal takes place before the lender grants final approval of the buyer’s loan.
The Appraisal Process
Appraisers use a variety of factors in their decision making. They weigh the location of the home, its proximity to desirable schools and other public facilities, the size of the lot, the size and condition of the home itself and recent sales prices of comparable properties, among other factors. Appraisers aren’t interested in whether or not the house is clean but they do notice signs of neglect such as cracked walls, chipped paint, broken windows, torn carpets, damaging flooring and inoperable appliances.
Federal law requires states to establish minimum standards and licensing practices for real estate appraisers. In California, for example, trainees must take several courses, pass an examination and complete 2,000 hours of supervised experience.
If the buyer is applying for a mortgage that will be insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the appraiser must survey the physical condition of the home and disclose potential problems to the buyer. No such obligation exists for non-FHA mortgages.
If a home receives an appraisal lower than the purchase price there are some ways the purchase can still go through. The seller can reduce the purchase price, the buyer could make a bigger down-payment, or if it’s a question of needed repairs, a separate escrow account can be set up to fund those repairs.
How Is An Appraisal Different From An Inspection?
An appraisal isn’t a substitute for a professional home inspection in fact they have some key differences. The appraiser formulates an opinion of the property’s value for the lender, while the inspector educates the buyer about the condition of the home and its major components. The appraiser is primarily focused on the value of the home whereas the inspector keys in on the home’s condition with an eye toward both existing and potential future problems.
I thought that this article had some really great information.
When you are getting ready to sell your home, dealing with inspections and appraisals is part of the process. Your home is now a product that is being sold and needs to be evaluated. Many people think that appraisals and inspections are essentially the same thing but there are some key differences. If you’ve ever watched “Antiques Roadshow” on PBS, you’re already familiar with the concept of an appraisal on personal property. The idea is similar in the realm of real estate valuations. Each property is unique, and the appraiser relies on his or her general expertise and specific research to arrive at an opinion of value.
An appraisal provides valuable information for the buyer and the seller, but the appraiser’s primary mission is to protect the lender. Lenders don’t want to own overpriced property and that’s why the appraisal takes place before the lender grants final approval of the buyer’s loan.
The Appraisal Process
Appraisers use a variety of factors in their decision making. They weigh the location of the home, its proximity to desirable schools and other public facilities, the size of the lot, the size and condition of the home itself and recent sales prices of comparable properties, among other factors. Appraisers aren’t interested in whether or not the house is clean but they do notice signs of neglect such as cracked walls, chipped paint, broken windows, torn carpets, damaging flooring and inoperable appliances.
Federal law requires states to establish minimum standards and licensing practices for real estate appraisers. In California, for example, trainees must take several courses, pass an examination and complete 2,000 hours of supervised experience.
If the buyer is applying for a mortgage that will be insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the appraiser must survey the physical condition of the home and disclose potential problems to the buyer. No such obligation exists for non-FHA mortgages.
If a home receives an appraisal lower than the purchase price there are some ways the purchase can still go through. The seller can reduce the purchase price, the buyer could make a bigger down-payment, or if it’s a question of needed repairs, a separate escrow account can be set up to fund those repairs.
How Is An Appraisal Different From An Inspection?
An appraisal isn’t a substitute for a professional home inspection in fact they have some key differences. The appraiser formulates an opinion of the property’s value for the lender, while the inspector educates the buyer about the condition of the home and its major components. The appraiser is primarily focused on the value of the home whereas the inspector keys in on the home’s condition with an eye toward both existing and potential future problems.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Arlington continues to grow by leaps and bounds and is a great melting pot of nationalities, we also have the developemnt and growth to go along with that and here is some exciting news that I just read about from UrbanTurf.com that I thought was great news!
The Columbia Pike corridor continues to grow.
Construction is about to start on a condo and townhome project on Walter Reed Drive, a block from the rapidly developing Pike, reported ARLnow late Monday.
Columbia Place, developed by Evergreene Homes, will contain 14 two-bedroom, 1,283-square foot condos and eight single-family townhomes and will be located at the corner of Walter Reed Drive and 11th Street S. in Arlington (map). The condo portion of the building will rise five stories, while the townhomes will each be four stories tall with rooftop terraces. Ground floor retail will activate the street level.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Mortgage Rates are dropping! The facts to support this enclosed!
Here are some interesting facts taken from the website Urbanturf.com. I though thought it was interesting and wanted to share it with everyone
After staying above 3.5 percent for several months, long-term mortgage rates dropped below that benchmark this week.
On Thursday, Freddie Mac reported 3.43 percent with an average 0.8 point as the average on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Last week, rates averaged 3.54 percent. Rates have more or less been on an upward trajectory since hitting a record low of 3.31 percent in November.
From Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist Frank Nothaft:
Mortgage rates fell further this week following a lackluster employment report for March. The economy added just 88,000 net new jobs last month, about one-third as many as February and the fewest since June 2012. In addition, approximately 496,000 people left the workforce causing the unemployment rate to fall to 7.6 percent.
Here's one from Realtor.com
Mortgage rates saw a decline for the second consecutive week, according to the latest survey by mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. Loan rates fell once again as response to weak unemployment data reported by the Labor Department last week and continue to move closer to historic lows.
The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan saw a considerable dip, falling to 3.43% from 3.54% last week. If the current trend continues, loans may come close to the record low reach in November, 3.31%, which represented the lowest average rate on record dating back to 1971.
The low rates have helped keep home-buying and refinancing desirable as the market continues its slow recovery, notes mortgage expert Al Bowman:
If we see an increase in spending, the bond market will likely fall and mortgage rates will rise as it would indicate consumers are spending more than thought, fueling economic growth. However, a weaker than expected reading could push bond prices higher and mortgage rates lower, especially if the PPI gives us favorable results also.
In addition to falling 30-year fixed loans, the average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage is also creeping towards the record low. Listed at 2.74% a week ago, 15-year fixed rates fell to 2.65%, which is a touch above the record low achieved in November, 2.63%.
Hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages also saw a slight decline. The average rate on a 5-year ARM fell from 2.65% to 2.62% this week, while the rate on a one-year ARM dipped ever-so-slightly to 2.62%, down .01% from a week ago.
Of the panelists polled by Bankrate.com in their weekly Mortgage Rate Trend Index, 33% believe that mortgage rates will rise in the coming week, while 66% believe that rates will remain unchanged. “Unchanged until the next international crisis or whatev,” says Bankrate.com assistant managing editor Holden Lewis. “Lately, mortgage rates seem captive to international events, which are unpredictable.”
After staying above 3.5 percent for several months, long-term mortgage rates dropped below that benchmark this week.
On Thursday, Freddie Mac reported 3.43 percent with an average 0.8 point as the average on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Last week, rates averaged 3.54 percent. Rates have more or less been on an upward trajectory since hitting a record low of 3.31 percent in November.
From Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist Frank Nothaft:
Mortgage rates fell further this week following a lackluster employment report for March. The economy added just 88,000 net new jobs last month, about one-third as many as February and the fewest since June 2012. In addition, approximately 496,000 people left the workforce causing the unemployment rate to fall to 7.6 percent.
Here's one from Realtor.com
Mortgage rates saw a decline for the second consecutive week, according to the latest survey by mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. Loan rates fell once again as response to weak unemployment data reported by the Labor Department last week and continue to move closer to historic lows.
The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan saw a considerable dip, falling to 3.43% from 3.54% last week. If the current trend continues, loans may come close to the record low reach in November, 3.31%, which represented the lowest average rate on record dating back to 1971.
The low rates have helped keep home-buying and refinancing desirable as the market continues its slow recovery, notes mortgage expert Al Bowman:
If we see an increase in spending, the bond market will likely fall and mortgage rates will rise as it would indicate consumers are spending more than thought, fueling economic growth. However, a weaker than expected reading could push bond prices higher and mortgage rates lower, especially if the PPI gives us favorable results also.
In addition to falling 30-year fixed loans, the average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage is also creeping towards the record low. Listed at 2.74% a week ago, 15-year fixed rates fell to 2.65%, which is a touch above the record low achieved in November, 2.63%.
Hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages also saw a slight decline. The average rate on a 5-year ARM fell from 2.65% to 2.62% this week, while the rate on a one-year ARM dipped ever-so-slightly to 2.62%, down .01% from a week ago.
Of the panelists polled by Bankrate.com in their weekly Mortgage Rate Trend Index, 33% believe that mortgage rates will rise in the coming week, while 66% believe that rates will remain unchanged. “Unchanged until the next international crisis or whatev,” says Bankrate.com assistant managing editor Holden Lewis. “Lately, mortgage rates seem captive to international events, which are unpredictable.”
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Back to School events
The approaching end of the summer season signals the time to start preparing for school. If you missed the 3-day school supply sales tax holiday that ran from August 2-4 in Virginia, there are still some local businesses where you can buy cheap school supplies in time for class. Maryland will also be having their tax free events from August 12-18.
Staples- is the most straight-forward; since desk supplies are what they specialize in, you’re sure to find what you need there, and they are currently running great sales on some of the most popular school items. There are over 15 Staples locations within 10 miles of Arlington.
Target- is where you can find some of the most colorful, fashionable school supplies, and the advantage of shopping here is that they also supply private school uniforms. You can print coupons for school supplies and back to school clothes directly from Target.com There are 6 locations in the Arlington area.
Wal-Mart- is generally where you will be able to find the most affordable supplies and clothes. Their website is great for back to school shopping, organized by grade and category, and you can even find checklists to make the process easier. This is a fantastic place to go especially if you are getting ready to send a kid off to college for the first time, since they have such a wide selection of basics for such low prices. There are three locations within 10 miles of Arlington.
Staples- is the most straight-forward; since desk supplies are what they specialize in, you’re sure to find what you need there, and they are currently running great sales on some of the most popular school items. There are over 15 Staples locations within 10 miles of Arlington.
Target- is where you can find some of the most colorful, fashionable school supplies, and the advantage of shopping here is that they also supply private school uniforms. You can print coupons for school supplies and back to school clothes directly from Target.com There are 6 locations in the Arlington area.
Wal-Mart- is generally where you will be able to find the most affordable supplies and clothes. Their website is great for back to school shopping, organized by grade and category, and you can even find checklists to make the process easier. This is a fantastic place to go especially if you are getting ready to send a kid off to college for the first time, since they have such a wide selection of basics for such low prices. There are three locations within 10 miles of Arlington.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
U.S. v Czech Republic (Soccer Friendly)
The United States Men's National Soccer Team plays their first World Cup warm-up game today in a friendly against the Czech Republic at Rentschler Field in Hartford, Connecticut.
Coach Bob Bradley will use this game to test some of the fringe players and whittle down the 30-man preliminary roster to the final 23 that will make the plane to South Africa for the World Cup, just three weeks away. Bradley will probably use another friendly, on Saturday against Turkey at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, to fine-tune and build chemistry within his starting eleven and subs he will most likely use at the tournament.
Bradley probably has most of the squad penciled in already, but will look for a few fringe players to shine tonight to grab the last few spots. A few key areas he will have to watch are at forward, where Brian Ching, Edson Buddle, Hercules Gomez, Eddie Johnson, and Robbie Findley are all fighting for 2 or 3 slots, midfield, where a similar battle is waging between DeMarcus Beasley, Sacha Kljestan, and Alejandro Bedoya, and defense, where it will be important to see just who is fit with several injuries popping up at the recent camp at Princeton.
The Czech team will feature just 4 players that were on the 2006 World Cup roster when they defeated the Americans 3-0 in the group stage. The Czech Republic will be watching the games from home as they failed to qualify for this summer's tournament. Czech stars Tomas Rosicky and Milan Baros are out with injuries.
Coach Bob Bradley will use this game to test some of the fringe players and whittle down the 30-man preliminary roster to the final 23 that will make the plane to South Africa for the World Cup, just three weeks away. Bradley will probably use another friendly, on Saturday against Turkey at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, to fine-tune and build chemistry within his starting eleven and subs he will most likely use at the tournament.
Bradley probably has most of the squad penciled in already, but will look for a few fringe players to shine tonight to grab the last few spots. A few key areas he will have to watch are at forward, where Brian Ching, Edson Buddle, Hercules Gomez, Eddie Johnson, and Robbie Findley are all fighting for 2 or 3 slots, midfield, where a similar battle is waging between DeMarcus Beasley, Sacha Kljestan, and Alejandro Bedoya, and defense, where it will be important to see just who is fit with several injuries popping up at the recent camp at Princeton.
The Czech team will feature just 4 players that were on the 2006 World Cup roster when they defeated the Americans 3-0 in the group stage. The Czech Republic will be watching the games from home as they failed to qualify for this summer's tournament. Czech stars Tomas Rosicky and Milan Baros are out with injuries.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Arlington, VA; Stress-Free
Feeling stressed? Move to Arlington.
According to the Associated Press Economic Stress Index, which measures counties with populations of at least 25,000, Arlington County was the 14th least economically stressed county in the entire country in the month of March.
So if you've been feeling strained, tense, and/or worried lately think about buying a house in Arlington, Virginia; one of the least economically stressed places in the United States. After all, what causes general stress more than the the economy and finances?
According to the Associated Press Economic Stress Index, which measures counties with populations of at least 25,000, Arlington County was the 14th least economically stressed county in the entire country in the month of March.
So if you've been feeling strained, tense, and/or worried lately think about buying a house in Arlington, Virginia; one of the least economically stressed places in the United States. After all, what causes general stress more than the the economy and finances?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Most Endangered Places in D.C.
The D.C. Preservation League has announced annually a list of the Most Endangered Places in Washington, D.C. since 1996.
It does so in order to draw attention to historically, culturally, and archetecturally signifant places which are threatened by what it deems to be ill-advised alterations or demolition due to neglect or abandonment.
The 2010 list includes Anne Archibald Hall, the District of Columbia Historic Firehouses, the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, and several buildings in the Anacostia Historic District.
The Anne Archibald Hall, on 19th Street and Massachusettes Ave NW, was nominated by the Capitol Hill Restoration Society. It was constructed in 1931/1932 and was the Nurses' Residence for Gallinger Municipal Hospital (later renamed DC General Hospital) which served the area's poor. The U-Shaped brick structure with limestone trim is the last intact example the hospitals Colonial Revival buildings. It was successfully nominated to the DC Inventory of Historic Sites in 2006 in response to a redevelopment plan that called for the removal of all hospital buildings. Since that time rehabilitation of the Hall ceased to materialize and it now suffers from deferred maintenance and water damage. Unless the District government takes to secure and stabalize the building, it's potential role in any future redevelopment plans for Reservation 13 could be compromised. The building was renamed Anne Archibald Hall in 1952 in honor of the local philanthropist and advocate for the hospital's nurses and patients.
The District of Columia Historic Firehouses were nominated by Sally Berk and D. Peter Sefton. The designers of these buildings include Leon Dessez, the firms of Wood, Donn, and Deming, and Hornblower and Marshall, as well as the Office of the Municipal Architecture. These structures, like Engine Company 22 on Georgia Ave NW, have been in use for over 100 years. They are victims of long-term neglect, delayed rehabilitation, and ill-advised alterations, and threatened by unsympathetic modernization plans. The DCPL would like to focus attention on these important works of public architecture and ward off complacent assumptions that designated landmarks are too self-evidently significant to be remodeled or are invulnerable from neglect or harm.
The Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, at 1518 M. Street NW, was self-nominated. It is home to D.C.'s oldest African Methodist Episcopal congregation. The Gothic style brick building, designed by Samuel G.T. Morsell, has been a bastian of civil and human rights since it's dedication in 1886 and was rooted in opposition to slavery and the belief that African Americans are entitled to equality. Frederick Douglass's funeral service was held at the church. The building is in need of extensive repairs and renovation. The exterior walls suffer from cracks and water infiltration and outdated mechanical systems are taxing the already limited financial resources of the congregation. The DCPL aims to marshal the expertise and resources of the preservation community needed to assist the congregation.
The buildings nominated by the Historic Anacostia Block Association and David Gerber include 2228, 2234, and 2238 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE as well as 2253 Mount View Pl SE. These structures date back to the turn of the 20th century. They are currently in very poor condition and several are for sale which could lead to demolition in order to make room for commercial use. The DCPL and HABA hope to team with the current owners in order to stabalize these structures, provide basic maintenance, and return them to properties of productive use.
The mission of the D.C. Preservation League is to preserve, protect, and enhance the historic and built environment of Washington D.C. through advocacy and education.
It does so in order to draw attention to historically, culturally, and archetecturally signifant places which are threatened by what it deems to be ill-advised alterations or demolition due to neglect or abandonment.
The 2010 list includes Anne Archibald Hall, the District of Columbia Historic Firehouses, the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, and several buildings in the Anacostia Historic District.
The Anne Archibald Hall, on 19th Street and Massachusettes Ave NW, was nominated by the Capitol Hill Restoration Society. It was constructed in 1931/1932 and was the Nurses' Residence for Gallinger Municipal Hospital (later renamed DC General Hospital) which served the area's poor. The U-Shaped brick structure with limestone trim is the last intact example the hospitals Colonial Revival buildings. It was successfully nominated to the DC Inventory of Historic Sites in 2006 in response to a redevelopment plan that called for the removal of all hospital buildings. Since that time rehabilitation of the Hall ceased to materialize and it now suffers from deferred maintenance and water damage. Unless the District government takes to secure and stabalize the building, it's potential role in any future redevelopment plans for Reservation 13 could be compromised. The building was renamed Anne Archibald Hall in 1952 in honor of the local philanthropist and advocate for the hospital's nurses and patients.
The District of Columia Historic Firehouses were nominated by Sally Berk and D. Peter Sefton. The designers of these buildings include Leon Dessez, the firms of Wood, Donn, and Deming, and Hornblower and Marshall, as well as the Office of the Municipal Architecture. These structures, like Engine Company 22 on Georgia Ave NW, have been in use for over 100 years. They are victims of long-term neglect, delayed rehabilitation, and ill-advised alterations, and threatened by unsympathetic modernization plans. The DCPL would like to focus attention on these important works of public architecture and ward off complacent assumptions that designated landmarks are too self-evidently significant to be remodeled or are invulnerable from neglect or harm.
The Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, at 1518 M. Street NW, was self-nominated. It is home to D.C.'s oldest African Methodist Episcopal congregation. The Gothic style brick building, designed by Samuel G.T. Morsell, has been a bastian of civil and human rights since it's dedication in 1886 and was rooted in opposition to slavery and the belief that African Americans are entitled to equality. Frederick Douglass's funeral service was held at the church. The building is in need of extensive repairs and renovation. The exterior walls suffer from cracks and water infiltration and outdated mechanical systems are taxing the already limited financial resources of the congregation. The DCPL aims to marshal the expertise and resources of the preservation community needed to assist the congregation.
The buildings nominated by the Historic Anacostia Block Association and David Gerber include 2228, 2234, and 2238 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE as well as 2253 Mount View Pl SE. These structures date back to the turn of the 20th century. They are currently in very poor condition and several are for sale which could lead to demolition in order to make room for commercial use. The DCPL and HABA hope to team with the current owners in order to stabalize these structures, provide basic maintenance, and return them to properties of productive use.
The mission of the D.C. Preservation League is to preserve, protect, and enhance the historic and built environment of Washington D.C. through advocacy and education.
Friday, May 14, 2010
If You List It, Will They Come?
The property that was featured in the 1989 Field of Dreams movie starring Kevin Costner is up for sale. The land, listed at $5.4 million, comes complete with the iconic two bedroom, one and a half bathroom farmhouse with the wrap-around porch, 193 acres of surrounding farm land, six outbuildings, and the baseball diamond (Shoeless Joe Jackson not included).
The site, near Dyersville, Iowa, has been in owner Don Lansing's family for more than a century. He and his wife Becky are ready to retire and give up the property, which has been a popular tourist destination. They have maintained the baseball field built by Universal Studios and there is even a concession stand.
The movie was based on a book by W.P. Kinsella, called Shoeless Joe.
The site, near Dyersville, Iowa, has been in owner Don Lansing's family for more than a century. He and his wife Becky are ready to retire and give up the property, which has been a popular tourist destination. They have maintained the baseball field built by Universal Studios and there is even a concession stand.
The movie was based on a book by W.P. Kinsella, called Shoeless Joe.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Twelve Home Design Trends
12 Hot Home Ideas
From induction cooking to relaxation retreats, these home-furnishings trends are catching fire.
By Barbara Ballinger February 2010 (REALTOR Magazine)
People today seek to personalize, economize, and make the most of their space—inside and out.
Today’s home owners seek style and comfort, but they’re ever mindful of the toll that our choices can take on the environment. These 12 home-furnishings trends reflect current priorities and aspirations. Some of these phenomena will inevitably fizzle, while others will become mainstays of the home, but for now they are attracting lots of industry and consumer buzz. Here’s a rundown:
#1 Induction cooking
Why trendworthy: Thirty percent more efficient than gas or electric.
Cropping up in more and more homes, induction cooking uses a power coil to produce a high-frequency electromagnetic field that heats only the contents of a magnetic pan, leaving the surrounding surface cooler to the touch. By maintaining a precise temperature, it immediately stops heat generation when the cook element is turned off or cookware is removed, and it doesn’t produce an open flame that heats up a kitchen, says Malte Peters, product manager for cooking products at BSH Home Appliances, parent company of Bosch and Thermador. One downside: Special cookware must be used. Retail prices range from $1,500 to $4,399.
#2 Environmentally friendly cabinetry
Why trendworthy: Popular with green movement.
With sustainable products continuing to draw fans, more kitchen and bathroom cabinets are expected to be fabricated from green materials, says John Troxell Jr., director of design at Wood-Mode Inc., a large manufacturer (www.wood-mode.com). But it’s not materials alone that make consumers pick one line over another, Troxell says. "Where materials come from, how cabinets are manufactured, and whether they’re finished without pollutants will be more important. While bamboo is renewable, it comes from halfway around the world, so is it environmentally friendly given transportation costs?" asks Troxell. He predicts greater interest in indigenous walnut and cherry, less in endangered mahogany and rosewood.
#3 Energy-sipping refrigerators
Why trendworthy: Pares the electricity consumption of a standard guzzler.
Future refrigerators will be better insulated to improve energy efficiency. The challenge is to add insulation without reducing interior space, says Matthew Kueny, senior manager of product development at Miele, which is working to provide a solution (www.miele.com). Also on the horizon: New interior lighting that’s more energy-efficient and that better illuminates dark corners without distorting the look of the food, which is common with the blue hue cast by LED lighting. Miele refrigerator-freezers start at almost $7,000, while simpler conventional models start at $600.
#4 Integrated stone composite sinks
Why trendworthy: They blend seamlessly into a countertop for a cleaner look, plus they’re more durable and easier to clean.
Stainless steel sinks are still common, but stone composite designs built into a countertop are coming on strong, says Tim Maicher, director of marketing at Blanco (www.blancoamerica.com). The prime motivator is growing consumer demand for easier to clean, more durable surfaces that don’t scratch or stain. Blanco’s Silgranit II line offers another perk: multiple colors and textures. The designs will reflect demand for longer, deep models, yet not so deep that aging home owners have trouble setting down or removing pots and pans.
#5 White and beige color palettes, some grays and pinks, bold accents
Why trendworthy: Less intense colors to calm jittery nerves.
Color seers may disagree about which palette will dominate, but they note that softer backdrops are everywhere—offering serenity to soothe frayed nerves as the economy remains turbulent. Mary Lawlor, color stylist with Kelly-Moore Paints (www.kellymoore.com), thinks whites and beiges will remain most popular and that bright colors will provide accents. Anne McGuire and Sue Kim, affiliated with Valspar Manufacturing Co. (www.valspar.com), see the most popular colors as water-inspired blues and greens, along with underwater corals. And Sylvia O’Brien, founder of Colour Theory (www.colourtheory.net), notes that earth tones provide tranquil reactions to the technical coldness in our midst and pink, especially with a pearlized finish, is popular as an accent because of its perceived healing power.
#6 Condo home offices
Why trendworthy: To help home owners maximize small spaces—and obtain a tax deduction.
Owners of single-family homes have long been able to convert a bedroom, den, or basement to an office, but down the road more condo buyers and apartment renters will find homes with small, dedicated spaces for business use, says Robert Kaliner, president of the Ascend Group, developer of the luxury Georgica condominiums in New York, where each glass-wrapped unit will have a home office (www.georgicany.com). Steve Kliegerman, executive director at Halstead Development, which is marketing units with home offices in another New York building, The Fitzgerald (www.thefitzgeraldcondos.com) in Harlem, sees a couple of factors behind the trend: Older, retrofitted office buildings tend to come with nooks that lend themselves to becoming small offices, and the home office tax deduction gives these spaces special appeal.
#7 Interior wall treatments besides paint
Why trendworthy: Easier to install; more personalized patterns, colors, textures.
Less popular in recent years, wall treatments other than paint are making a comeback, says Atlanta-based interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn, who cites several reasons: new bolder graphic wallpaper patterns, some in shiny metallics and textured leathers, and easier and less costly application due to new primers. Wallpaper is cropping up on a single focal wall, which saves money. Flynn predicts more home owners will cover an entire wall with an enlarged photo printed in sections.
#8 Do-it-yourself projects
Why trendworthy: Less costly, more personal.
The DIY trend keeps growing as home owners look to cut costs and return to basics. Instruction is readily available in classes, on the Web, and in books. Example: Designer Fu-Tung Cheng (www.chengdesign.com), who helped make concrete a chic, green material for interior surfaces, is now helping even nonhandy home owners construct concrete countertops with his book and DVD, Concrete Countertops Made Simple (Taunton Press, 2008). "The DIY movement represents a trend away from overly complex projects that require professional expertise. The simpler designs are also more timeless and individualistic and more likely to touch the heart," Cheng says.
#9 Outdoor curtains
Why trendworthy: Even backyard "rooms" require some privacy.
As more people construct "rooms" in their backyards for purposes such as swimming, cooking and eating, and relaxing under a pergola, the need for curtains has arisen. New fabrics stand up better to outdoor conditions and visually soften hardscape surfaces. They also screen out nosy neighbors, says designer Flynn. Fabric runs $12 to $80 per square foot, plus installation.
#10 Dual-flush, environmentally efficient toilets, plus more healthful designs
Why trendworthy: Greater recognition that liquid and solid waste have different flush requirements.
Though widely available abroad, dual-flush toilets—with separate mechanisms to handle liquid or solid waste—are gaining attention here, says Lenora Campos with Toto USA, a leading toilet manufacturer (www.totousa.com). The main challenge isn’t convincing home owners to buy the models, she says, but getting them to remember to use the right button. More companies may follow Toto’s lead to construct toilets with glazed concave rims and water nozzles that repel bacteria and wall-mounted models that make cleaning underneath easier. Toto’s Aquia II dual-flush models run from $457 to $686, while the company’s conventional single-flush models range from $350 to $525.
#11 3-D HDTV
Why trendworthy: Images are becoming more lifelike.
HDTVs display a beautiful picture, but they can’t offer a 3-D presentation like your local IMAX movie theater does. The reason: True high-definition 3-D in the home currently lacks a standard and is still too expensive for most consumers. That should change, in part because electronics manufacturers are developing a standard format. When that happens, prices should drop, says Dave Pedigo, senior director of technology for CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association), a national trade association.
#12 Relaxation retreats
Why trendworthy: Increased need to unwind.
Who cares about a home being a castle when most just want a place to unwind? Atlanta architect Johnna Barrett (www.barrettdesigninc.com) has designed several relaxation rooms, where creature comforts include natural materials, color kinetics, programmable LED lighting, candlelight, aromatherapy, a sound-blocking machine, flat-panel TV with DVD player, refrigerator with purified water, and a door. Depending on room size and amenities included, a retreat room could cost from $3,000 to $10,000.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
U.S. World Cup Preliminary Roster
Bob Bradley, coach of the United State Men's National Soccer Team, announced the list of 30 players who will train at Princeton before the World Cup in South Africa next month. The squad will need to be widdled down to 23 before their first game against England on June 12th.
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton), Tim Howard (Everton)
Breakdown - Howard is the undisputed number one netminder leaving Guzan and Hahnemann to duke it out for second choice. Guzan backs up American keeper Brad Friedel at Villa and has seen limited action this season in a handful of Carling Cup and F.A. Cup games while Hahnemann, at age 37, usurped Wayne Hennessey in December as the number one choice for Wolves. In any case, all three will be taken to South Africa. Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake) could have been brought into camp to compete but it wasn't necessary since the three already listed stood head and shoulders above both Rimando and another candidate in Troy Perkins (DC United).
Defenders: Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes)*, Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Watford), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Jonathan Spector (West Ham)
Breakdown - The biggest question mark for the American back four, aside from Onyewu's health, is at left back. Pearce has been less than impressive in his performances for the national team while his MLS compatriot Bornstein has been extremely inconsistent; going from hero, as his game-tying goal against Costa Rica clinched America's first place spot in CONCACAF qualifying, to goat, in a friendly against the Netherlands where he was responsible for both Dutch goals, giving up a penalty kick on a careless foul and also deflecting a shot into his own net.
A few other options would be to play Spector on the left side where is comfortable, playing there for his club in England, or sliding left-footed captain Bocanegra from central defense. Both have capable backups at their preferred position, Cherundolo at right back and DeMerit at central defense respectively, but Spector may be the best choice because of Bocanegra's lack of pace.
The 6'4" defenseman known as "Gooch" is probably the best defender on Bradley's team but is coming off a major injury that saw him miss most of the Serie A season for the Rossoneri. With nearly no playing time with his club it will be important to see if he can get back to match fitness. Goodson provides depth in the center.
Notable exclusions include fan favorite Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew) and former Mexican national Edgar Castillo (UANL).
Midfielders: DeMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Alejandro Bedoya (Orebro), Michael Bradley (Borussia Monchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Benny Feilhaber (Aurhus), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca)
Breakdown - This unit his headed by America's greatest footballer of all time, Landon Donovan. He will probably start on the left as he has done since last summer, but may switch to the right where he shined in a loan stint in England at Everton.
This would largely depend on whether Bradley shifts Clint Dempsey from right wing to a forward position, which I will discuss in the next paragraph. However, should Dempsey move up top another option to replace him is Stuart Holden, a promising youngster who moved overseas in January and is also coming off an injury.
Another question is who will partner with Michael Bradley, the coach's son, in central midfield. The choice is between Edu, who has performed well for his Scottish club since recovering from injury, and Clark who stepped in admirably during Edu's absence from the national team. Clark had a recent injury spell after signing for a German club in January (have you noticed the pattern yet?).
Feilhaber and Torres can provide depth in the center and out left where a familiar face is back in the fold after losing Bradley's favor at the Confederations Cup last June. Beasley has made it back onto the roster after a terrible blunder on an American corner kick led to an embarrassing counter-attack goal for the Brazilians.
Missing the cut were Freddy Adu (Aris Thessaloniki), who has failed to live up to his expectations as a youth, and talented Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04) who switched affiliation from Germany but had several setbacks in his rehab from a leg injury.
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Villarreal), Edson Buddle (LA Galaxy), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Hercules Gomez (Puebla), Eddie Johnson (Aris Thessaloniki)
Breakdown - The only sure thing in the list of forwards is Altidore. All five other candidates, three of which will probably be on the final roster, could make or miss the plane to the World Cup finals.
Brian Ching is a familiar face but shares a lot of the same attributes as Jozy and is also coming off an injury.
Findley and Johnson have the pace to compliment Altidore, but have been virtually unnoticable as of late when given the chance to prove themselves at the international level.
The most in form strikers at the moment are Buddle and Gomez. Buddle is having a career season in the MLS playing alongside teammate Donovan while Gomez tied for most goals scored in the Mexican Clausura, mostly coming on as a substitute.
Something Bradley has probably been thinking about is moving Dempsey or Donovan up top as a support striker. This is Donovan's natural position and Dempsey plays there for his club and has shown a knack for scoring when placed in this situation.
Unfortunately, the extremely promising Charlie Davies (Sochaux), who broke out at the Confederations Cup, failed in his efforts to make the World Cup roster after suffering extensive injuries and undergoing an intense rehab following a fatal car crash in Washington D.C. the night before the team's final qualifying game in October. Also not making the list was a regular from the past year, Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids).
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton), Tim Howard (Everton)
Breakdown - Howard is the undisputed number one netminder leaving Guzan and Hahnemann to duke it out for second choice. Guzan backs up American keeper Brad Friedel at Villa and has seen limited action this season in a handful of Carling Cup and F.A. Cup games while Hahnemann, at age 37, usurped Wayne Hennessey in December as the number one choice for Wolves. In any case, all three will be taken to South Africa. Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake) could have been brought into camp to compete but it wasn't necessary since the three already listed stood head and shoulders above both Rimando and another candidate in Troy Perkins (DC United).
Defenders: Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes)*, Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Watford), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Jonathan Spector (West Ham)
Breakdown - The biggest question mark for the American back four, aside from Onyewu's health, is at left back. Pearce has been less than impressive in his performances for the national team while his MLS compatriot Bornstein has been extremely inconsistent; going from hero, as his game-tying goal against Costa Rica clinched America's first place spot in CONCACAF qualifying, to goat, in a friendly against the Netherlands where he was responsible for both Dutch goals, giving up a penalty kick on a careless foul and also deflecting a shot into his own net.
A few other options would be to play Spector on the left side where is comfortable, playing there for his club in England, or sliding left-footed captain Bocanegra from central defense. Both have capable backups at their preferred position, Cherundolo at right back and DeMerit at central defense respectively, but Spector may be the best choice because of Bocanegra's lack of pace.
The 6'4" defenseman known as "Gooch" is probably the best defender on Bradley's team but is coming off a major injury that saw him miss most of the Serie A season for the Rossoneri. With nearly no playing time with his club it will be important to see if he can get back to match fitness. Goodson provides depth in the center.
Notable exclusions include fan favorite Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew) and former Mexican national Edgar Castillo (UANL).
Midfielders: DeMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Alejandro Bedoya (Orebro), Michael Bradley (Borussia Monchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Benny Feilhaber (Aurhus), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca)
Breakdown - This unit his headed by America's greatest footballer of all time, Landon Donovan. He will probably start on the left as he has done since last summer, but may switch to the right where he shined in a loan stint in England at Everton.
This would largely depend on whether Bradley shifts Clint Dempsey from right wing to a forward position, which I will discuss in the next paragraph. However, should Dempsey move up top another option to replace him is Stuart Holden, a promising youngster who moved overseas in January and is also coming off an injury.
Another question is who will partner with Michael Bradley, the coach's son, in central midfield. The choice is between Edu, who has performed well for his Scottish club since recovering from injury, and Clark who stepped in admirably during Edu's absence from the national team. Clark had a recent injury spell after signing for a German club in January (have you noticed the pattern yet?).
Feilhaber and Torres can provide depth in the center and out left where a familiar face is back in the fold after losing Bradley's favor at the Confederations Cup last June. Beasley has made it back onto the roster after a terrible blunder on an American corner kick led to an embarrassing counter-attack goal for the Brazilians.
Missing the cut were Freddy Adu (Aris Thessaloniki), who has failed to live up to his expectations as a youth, and talented Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04) who switched affiliation from Germany but had several setbacks in his rehab from a leg injury.
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Villarreal), Edson Buddle (LA Galaxy), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Hercules Gomez (Puebla), Eddie Johnson (Aris Thessaloniki)
Breakdown - The only sure thing in the list of forwards is Altidore. All five other candidates, three of which will probably be on the final roster, could make or miss the plane to the World Cup finals.
Brian Ching is a familiar face but shares a lot of the same attributes as Jozy and is also coming off an injury.
Findley and Johnson have the pace to compliment Altidore, but have been virtually unnoticable as of late when given the chance to prove themselves at the international level.
The most in form strikers at the moment are Buddle and Gomez. Buddle is having a career season in the MLS playing alongside teammate Donovan while Gomez tied for most goals scored in the Mexican Clausura, mostly coming on as a substitute.
Something Bradley has probably been thinking about is moving Dempsey or Donovan up top as a support striker. This is Donovan's natural position and Dempsey plays there for his club and has shown a knack for scoring when placed in this situation.
Unfortunately, the extremely promising Charlie Davies (Sochaux), who broke out at the Confederations Cup, failed in his efforts to make the World Cup roster after suffering extensive injuries and undergoing an intense rehab following a fatal car crash in Washington D.C. the night before the team's final qualifying game in October. Also not making the list was a regular from the past year, Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids).
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Taste of Arlington
Taste of Arlington® is an annual event that transforms the Ballston area into a lively street festival, complete with local entertainment, lively sponsors, children's activities, and lots of noteworthy restaurants. Over 40 restaurants participate in this spectacular community event, which draws an average of 15,000 people each year who live in the greater Washington, D.C. area.
This year, the event will expand its footprint by providing a deeper flavor of Arlington, showcasing the county's urban villages such as Ballston, Clarendon-Courthouse, Columbia Pike, Rosslyn and Crystal City.
The Ballston Partnership is the host and owner of the event and is organizing it in partnership with the Clarendon Alliance, Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization, Rosslyn Renaissance and Crystal City BID.
The event will take place Sunday May 16th, rain or shine, from noon to 5 p.m. on Wilson Boulevard near Ballston Commons Mall. Parking is available at the Ballston Public Parking Garage for $1/day and the event is also located on the Metro Ballston-MU station (Orange Line).
There are no age restrictions for entry but you must be 21 to purchase or consume alcohol. Pets are also welcome but please do not bring food or beverages to the Taste of Arlington as per Health Code stipulations.
There is no admissions fee for the event but tickets need to be purchased to sample food and beverages. Tickets can be purchased here at a reduced price or at the event.
This year, the event will expand its footprint by providing a deeper flavor of Arlington, showcasing the county's urban villages such as Ballston, Clarendon-Courthouse, Columbia Pike, Rosslyn and Crystal City.
The Ballston Partnership is the host and owner of the event and is organizing it in partnership with the Clarendon Alliance, Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization, Rosslyn Renaissance and Crystal City BID.
The event will take place Sunday May 16th, rain or shine, from noon to 5 p.m. on Wilson Boulevard near Ballston Commons Mall. Parking is available at the Ballston Public Parking Garage for $1/day and the event is also located on the Metro Ballston-MU station (Orange Line).
There are no age restrictions for entry but you must be 21 to purchase or consume alcohol. Pets are also welcome but please do not bring food or beverages to the Taste of Arlington as per Health Code stipulations.
There is no admissions fee for the event but tickets need to be purchased to sample food and beverages. Tickets can be purchased here at a reduced price or at the event.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Tax Credit Extension for Military and Fed Employees
The $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers that expired April 30th was extended a year for military personnel and Federal employees.
Members of the uniformed service, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community serving on qualified official extended duty services outside the United States for at least 90 days starting December 31, 2008 and ending May 31, 2010 are eligable for the tax credit if a binding contact is entered into by April 30, 2011.
Members of the uniformed service, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community serving on qualified official extended duty services outside the United States for at least 90 days starting December 31, 2008 and ending May 31, 2010 are eligable for the tax credit if a binding contact is entered into by April 30, 2011.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Undisclosed Address
Why not display an address when marketing a property for sale? Two common reasons are:
1) To protect privacy or fear of theft.
2) It's used as a marketing tool to generate more calls on the listing.
This often times backfires because people sometimes are annoyed by the lack of data or discount the property altogether because it's location is hidden.
Research shows that the percentage of inquiries a listing receives is the same whether the address is shown or not. The extra interest generated by buyers wanting to know the address is most likely counterbalanced by those who immediately skip over the listing.
However, some technological advances that would enhance the prospect of selling with a shown address include:
1) Online Map Search - Most real estate websites now have options to search for homes for sale by listings or by an interactive map. For most, when the address is not given the location given to the listing is the zip code of the area it's in and a search is not really possible.
2) Mobile Real Estate Search - There are applications for mobile devices that can tell you what listings are in the area you're at using GPS technology. Properties with hidden addresses will likely not be included. This use will become more important over time.
1) To protect privacy or fear of theft.
2) It's used as a marketing tool to generate more calls on the listing.
This often times backfires because people sometimes are annoyed by the lack of data or discount the property altogether because it's location is hidden.
Research shows that the percentage of inquiries a listing receives is the same whether the address is shown or not. The extra interest generated by buyers wanting to know the address is most likely counterbalanced by those who immediately skip over the listing.
However, some technological advances that would enhance the prospect of selling with a shown address include:
1) Online Map Search - Most real estate websites now have options to search for homes for sale by listings or by an interactive map. For most, when the address is not given the location given to the listing is the zip code of the area it's in and a search is not really possible.
2) Mobile Real Estate Search - There are applications for mobile devices that can tell you what listings are in the area you're at using GPS technology. Properties with hidden addresses will likely not be included. This use will become more important over time.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo, or the 5th of May, commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is observed mainly in the state of Puebla and in the United States as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. It is often confused with Mexico's Independence Day, which is September 16th.
In 1861 Benito Juarez, then President of Mexico stopped paying interest payments to countries that Mexico owed money to. France, in order to force payment of the debt invaded Mexico. The French, having superior arms, were largely successful until May 5th, 1862 the outnumbered Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin defeated the French army at the Battle of Puebla.
While this victory merely delayed the French occupation of Mexico the Battle was important not only because of the remarkable odds Zaragoza's men overcame against an army that had not been defeated in almost 50 years but also because no county in the America's has ever been invaded by an army from another continent since.
In 1861 Benito Juarez, then President of Mexico stopped paying interest payments to countries that Mexico owed money to. France, in order to force payment of the debt invaded Mexico. The French, having superior arms, were largely successful until May 5th, 1862 the outnumbered Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin defeated the French army at the Battle of Puebla.
While this victory merely delayed the French occupation of Mexico the Battle was important not only because of the remarkable odds Zaragoza's men overcame against an army that had not been defeated in almost 50 years but also because no county in the America's has ever been invaded by an army from another continent since.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Arlington, VA: New Resident Checklist
While exploring Arlington's website today I came across a new resident checklist which I thought would be great to share with people moving into the area.
NEW RESIDENT CHECKLIST:
Note: Consumers are now able to choose from several competitors for broadband, electric, gas, telephone (both local & long distance) and television service. Ask your local utility distributor about what choices are available to you.
Cable TV
Comcast of Arlington
Phone: 703-841-7700
Verizon
FIOS TV in Virginia : 866-788-3814
Community Involvement
Find out about civic associations, neighborhood organizations, volunteer opportunities and other ways to become involved in your new community.
Electricity
Dominion Virginia Power provides the regulated delivery (distribution) of electricity to your home or business. Ask your local utility about what electricity supplier choices are available to you.
Dominion Virginia Power
Apply for service by calling 1-888-667-3000/(TTY 800-552-4015)
Gas
Washington Gas delivers natural gas to your home or business and responds to any emergency involving your gas service. Ask your local utility about what natural gas supplier choices are available to you.
Washington Gas
Phone: 703-750-1000/ (TTY 703-750-7975)
Pet Licenses
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and licensed with the County. Phone: 703-228-3081
Residential Permit Parking
Residential Permit Parking Zones have been established in residential neighborhoods adjacent to major corridors or traffic generators. Red and white "Permit Parking" street signs indicate if a neighborhood is a residential permit area. Only neighborhood residents with County issued permits and their visitors may park on these streets during restricted parking hours; drivers without zone permit stickers (decals), a free FlexPass or a short-term visitor pass risk ticketing and towing. More information is available at the Residential Permit Parking webpage.
Schools
Student Registration: Parents should enroll school-age children as soon as they arrive in Arlington County. Register your child at the school he or she will attend. To determine the appropriate school(s), call 228-7600 and then call the Intake Center at 228-7663 to make an appointment. More information is available at the Arlington Public Schools website.
Taxes and Bills
Learn the local tax rates on personal property and real estate as well as filing requirements for personal property such as vehicle, motorcycles, and boats.
Telephone
Verizon provides and maintains the telephone network to which your home or business is connected. Several competitors provide telephone service (both local and long distance).
Verizon
Phone: 703-954-6222 for residential service. 1-800-826-2355 for business service. (TTY 800-564-0999).
Trash & Recycling/Water/Sewer Services
Call the Arlington County Utilities Services Office 228-6570 (TTY: 703-228-4611). Homeowners, and possibly renters, need to establish a County utilities account for these services.
Vehicle Registration
State of Virginia: New Virginia residents must register their vehicles within 30 days after becoming a resident in Virginia. Immediately upon registration a vehicle safety inspection is required; there is no grace period. In addition, an emissions inspection is required before the vehicle can be registered. The Arlington branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office is located at 4150 S. Four Mile Run Drive. You may title your vehicle in Virginia, register for state license plates, and apply for a Virginia driver's license there. Title and registration services are also offered at the DMV Select office in Courthouse Plaza. For complete details, visit DMV online or telephone them at 1-866-368-5463 (TTY 800-272-9268).
Vehicle Registration, Arlington: After you complete DMV registration, the next step is to register your vehicle in Arlington County. New Arlington residents must register their vehicles with the County within 60 days after moving to Arlington or immediately upon display of permanent Virginia state tags. To register your vehicle with the County, fill out the online form or simply bring your state registration papers to the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue, 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 218. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Your first County windshield decal will cost $25.00. With this registration, you are automatically registered on the County's personal property tax rolls. For more information, telephone (703) 228-3135.
Voter Registration
If you are a new Virginia resident, you must register in order to be able to vote in Virginia. If you moved to Arlington from another Virginia jurisdiction, you must transfer your voter registration to Arlington County. Both tasks may be accomplished at the Office of Voter Registration, 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 320. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Or, you may register to vote when you register your vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Registration forms also are available in Arlington Public Libraries and Arlington Public Schools. You must register at least 29 days before a primary or general election or 14 days before a special election. Telephone 703-228-3456.
NEW RESIDENT CHECKLIST:
Note: Consumers are now able to choose from several competitors for broadband, electric, gas, telephone (both local & long distance) and television service. Ask your local utility distributor about what choices are available to you.
Cable TV
Comcast of Arlington
Phone: 703-841-7700
Verizon
FIOS TV in Virginia : 866-788-3814
Community Involvement
Find out about civic associations, neighborhood organizations, volunteer opportunities and other ways to become involved in your new community.
Electricity
Dominion Virginia Power provides the regulated delivery (distribution) of electricity to your home or business. Ask your local utility about what electricity supplier choices are available to you.
Dominion Virginia Power
Apply for service by calling 1-888-667-3000/(TTY 800-552-4015)
Gas
Washington Gas delivers natural gas to your home or business and responds to any emergency involving your gas service. Ask your local utility about what natural gas supplier choices are available to you.
Washington Gas
Phone: 703-750-1000/ (TTY 703-750-7975)
Pet Licenses
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and licensed with the County. Phone: 703-228-3081
Residential Permit Parking
Residential Permit Parking Zones have been established in residential neighborhoods adjacent to major corridors or traffic generators. Red and white "Permit Parking" street signs indicate if a neighborhood is a residential permit area. Only neighborhood residents with County issued permits and their visitors may park on these streets during restricted parking hours; drivers without zone permit stickers (decals), a free FlexPass or a short-term visitor pass risk ticketing and towing. More information is available at the Residential Permit Parking webpage.
Schools
Student Registration: Parents should enroll school-age children as soon as they arrive in Arlington County. Register your child at the school he or she will attend. To determine the appropriate school(s), call 228-7600 and then call the Intake Center at 228-7663 to make an appointment. More information is available at the Arlington Public Schools website.
Taxes and Bills
Learn the local tax rates on personal property and real estate as well as filing requirements for personal property such as vehicle, motorcycles, and boats.
Telephone
Verizon provides and maintains the telephone network to which your home or business is connected. Several competitors provide telephone service (both local and long distance).
Verizon
Phone: 703-954-6222 for residential service. 1-800-826-2355 for business service. (TTY 800-564-0999).
Trash & Recycling/Water/Sewer Services
Call the Arlington County Utilities Services Office 228-6570 (TTY: 703-228-4611). Homeowners, and possibly renters, need to establish a County utilities account for these services.
Vehicle Registration
State of Virginia: New Virginia residents must register their vehicles within 30 days after becoming a resident in Virginia. Immediately upon registration a vehicle safety inspection is required; there is no grace period. In addition, an emissions inspection is required before the vehicle can be registered. The Arlington branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office is located at 4150 S. Four Mile Run Drive. You may title your vehicle in Virginia, register for state license plates, and apply for a Virginia driver's license there. Title and registration services are also offered at the DMV Select office in Courthouse Plaza. For complete details, visit DMV online or telephone them at 1-866-368-5463 (TTY 800-272-9268).
Vehicle Registration, Arlington: After you complete DMV registration, the next step is to register your vehicle in Arlington County. New Arlington residents must register their vehicles with the County within 60 days after moving to Arlington or immediately upon display of permanent Virginia state tags. To register your vehicle with the County, fill out the online form or simply bring your state registration papers to the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue, 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 218. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Your first County windshield decal will cost $25.00. With this registration, you are automatically registered on the County's personal property tax rolls. For more information, telephone (703) 228-3135.
Voter Registration
If you are a new Virginia resident, you must register in order to be able to vote in Virginia. If you moved to Arlington from another Virginia jurisdiction, you must transfer your voter registration to Arlington County. Both tasks may be accomplished at the Office of Voter Registration, 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 320. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Or, you may register to vote when you register your vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Registration forms also are available in Arlington Public Libraries and Arlington Public Schools. You must register at least 29 days before a primary or general election or 14 days before a special election. Telephone 703-228-3456.
Monday, May 3, 2010
D.C. United 2010 Campaign
After a disappointing 2009 season for D.C. United, once an elite team in Major League Soccer, the fans were promised major changes at the underachieving club. The team finished 4th in the Eastern Conference but missed the playoffs due to the fact that the eight spots available were given to teams with the highest point totals regardless of conference. They also finished runners-up in the U.S. Open tournament. But this was not enough for the fans who are used to seeing the team bring home silverware including 4 MLS Cups, 4 MLS Supporters' Shields, 2 U.S. Open Cups, a CONCACAF Champions' Cups, and an InterAmerican Cup.
So during the offseason head coach Tom Soehn was replaced by Kansas City Wizards coach Curt Onalfo and star players including Luciano Emilio, Fred, Christian Gomez were let go and fan favorite Ben Olsen retired to be replaced by newcomers Troy Perkins, Danny Allsopp, and Adam Cristman.
Unfortunately, D.C. United is off to a bad start to it's 15th campaign in the league. They have lost their first five games in the league. The team is dealing with injury issues on the defensive backline and a stale offense leaving them with a mere total of 2 goals and 13 goals against in league play. They have brought back Luciano Emilio on a three month loan at a much lower salary to try to add a spark, but he was let go after last year for a reason as he could not get back to his 2007 form that saw him win the MLS Most Valuable Player Award, MLS Golden Boot Award, MLS Newcomer Award, and earn a spot on the MLS Starting XI.
Hopefully as the team becomes more familiar with one another they can turn around their performances and begin getting better results and picking up some points. It's a long season that will also be interrupted by the World Cup in South Africa in June, so they will have plenty of time to try to work out the kinks.
So during the offseason head coach Tom Soehn was replaced by Kansas City Wizards coach Curt Onalfo and star players including Luciano Emilio, Fred, Christian Gomez were let go and fan favorite Ben Olsen retired to be replaced by newcomers Troy Perkins, Danny Allsopp, and Adam Cristman.
Unfortunately, D.C. United is off to a bad start to it's 15th campaign in the league. They have lost their first five games in the league. The team is dealing with injury issues on the defensive backline and a stale offense leaving them with a mere total of 2 goals and 13 goals against in league play. They have brought back Luciano Emilio on a three month loan at a much lower salary to try to add a spark, but he was let go after last year for a reason as he could not get back to his 2007 form that saw him win the MLS Most Valuable Player Award, MLS Golden Boot Award, MLS Newcomer Award, and earn a spot on the MLS Starting XI.
Hopefully as the team becomes more familiar with one another they can turn around their performances and begin getting better results and picking up some points. It's a long season that will also be interrupted by the World Cup in South Africa in June, so they will have plenty of time to try to work out the kinks.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Georgetown's Halcyon House for Sale
The Halcyon House, one of Washington D.C.'s most historic properties, is on the market and listed for $19.5 million.
Built in 1787 by the first Secretary of the Navy, Benjamin Stoddard, the Halcyon House in the heart of Georgetown was the center of much of Washington's social life in the early 1800's.
Stoddard eventually transferred ownership to his daughter, Elizabeth Ewell, who with her husband Thomas had a child. Richard S. Ewell later became a noted Confederate General in the American Civil War under Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.
Over the years the house has had many renovation and many owners including Albert Clemens (Mark Twain's nephew), Dorothy W. Sterling (wife of a U.S. Ambassador to Sweden), Georgetown Univesity (used the building as dormitory), and John Dreyfuss (sculptor).
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Amazing Ride Cap'd by Dissappointing Defeat
The number one seed Washington Capitals were beaten 2-1 last night by eighth seed Montreal Canadiens in game seven of the Stanley Cup first round series and now how the rest of the offseason to ponder what could have been.
The Caps team that won the Presidents Trophy after collecting the most points in the regular season and were hyped as the top contender for the Cup in 2010 gave up a 3-1 series lead on the "Habs", an original six franchise that is probably the most decorated in league history but hasn't won hockey's biggest prize since 1993.
The Capitals were plagued in the postseason by star player Alexandre Semin's vanishing act (0 goals and 2 assists while leading the NHL in the playoffs with 44 shots), an ineffectual power play (1 for 33 in the series), and in the last three games, a brick wall of a goaltender by the name of Jaroslav Halak (131 saves on 134 shots in that span).
The Canadiens move on to play Capitals' rival Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. The Capitals will have to decide what direction to take the franchise in the offseason. Do they dismantle and overhaul the roster? Fire coach Bruce Boudreau?
In my opinion, they shouldn't do either of these things. These players are still young and have several great years of hockey ahead. Coach Boudreau has coached many of them up from the minor leagues as coach of the Hershey Bears so they already know his system and how to execute it. This team seems to have great chemistry and could probably use only minor tweaks to the roster at this point.
The first thing they must do is resign Nicklas Backstrom. The talented 22 year old Swedish center is a restricted free agent this offseason. The second thing General Manager George McPhee must do is find a defensive veteran leader in free agency. Adding a player like Scott Niedermayer or Sergei Gonchar, both of whom are available, could go a long way in helping to develop youngsters Mike Green and John Carlson. Finally, the team needs to figure out what their plan is for next year at the goalie position. They can resign free agent Jose Theodore but would probably be better off letting him go in order to free up salary cap space. If that's the case they can opt to bring in another free agent on the cheap or decide to rely on prospect Michal Neuvirth. Either way, Semyon Valamov should start next year.
It was a great year for the Washington Capitals with a tremendously disappointing finish for the team and fans. But after the initial pain wears away and the media frenzy over the next couple weeks quiets down, looking ahead to next season is going to seem pretty bright I think.
The Caps team that won the Presidents Trophy after collecting the most points in the regular season and were hyped as the top contender for the Cup in 2010 gave up a 3-1 series lead on the "Habs", an original six franchise that is probably the most decorated in league history but hasn't won hockey's biggest prize since 1993.
The Capitals were plagued in the postseason by star player Alexandre Semin's vanishing act (0 goals and 2 assists while leading the NHL in the playoffs with 44 shots), an ineffectual power play (1 for 33 in the series), and in the last three games, a brick wall of a goaltender by the name of Jaroslav Halak (131 saves on 134 shots in that span).
The Canadiens move on to play Capitals' rival Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. The Capitals will have to decide what direction to take the franchise in the offseason. Do they dismantle and overhaul the roster? Fire coach Bruce Boudreau?
In my opinion, they shouldn't do either of these things. These players are still young and have several great years of hockey ahead. Coach Boudreau has coached many of them up from the minor leagues as coach of the Hershey Bears so they already know his system and how to execute it. This team seems to have great chemistry and could probably use only minor tweaks to the roster at this point.
The first thing they must do is resign Nicklas Backstrom. The talented 22 year old Swedish center is a restricted free agent this offseason. The second thing General Manager George McPhee must do is find a defensive veteran leader in free agency. Adding a player like Scott Niedermayer or Sergei Gonchar, both of whom are available, could go a long way in helping to develop youngsters Mike Green and John Carlson. Finally, the team needs to figure out what their plan is for next year at the goalie position. They can resign free agent Jose Theodore but would probably be better off letting him go in order to free up salary cap space. If that's the case they can opt to bring in another free agent on the cheap or decide to rely on prospect Michal Neuvirth. Either way, Semyon Valamov should start next year.
It was a great year for the Washington Capitals with a tremendously disappointing finish for the team and fans. But after the initial pain wears away and the media frenzy over the next couple weeks quiets down, looking ahead to next season is going to seem pretty bright I think.
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