Fredericksburg, VA

Years ago, many of us got a bit of a laugh when we heard a prominent U.S. politican remark that "it takes a village" to raise a child. Although, little did we know at the time that the remark was hardly original. It originated as an African proverb before finding its way the US political scene. But, village life does have its advantages, especially for those living the good life in Ladysmith Village (LSV), just South of Fredericksburg.

Ladysmith Village is an ideal location for just about anyone, regardless of family size, commuting choices, or home style. There are plenty of options for almost any desire.

For commuters, Ladysmith Village is perfectly situated between Richmond and Fredericksburg, making sense for those that work in the city but would rather live apart from the hustle and bustle that normally accompanies it. "Beltway Bandits" can take advantage of many of the same commuting options common to I95; car & van pools, buses, and just north in Fredericksburg, the train. For military personnel, LSV's central location makes it an easy option for those stationed north on I95 at Quantico, Ft. Belvoir, Ft Myer, the Pentagon, or other locations, or those who heading East towards NSWC Dahlgren.

Communtiy amenities abound. The Residents Community Center is second to none and includes:

• An eight lane pool surrounded by an expansive deck , a kiddy pool & spray fountain, and large barbecue area.

• Conference Rooms

• Fitness Center

• Media Facility

• Banquet Area

• Large Kitchen

An ideal location for wedding receptions, business meetings, or community get-togethers.

Other community attractions include the Ampitheater, Public Library, Elementary School, and walking and hiking trails. Additionally, the Village's South River Sanctuary is the perfect get away for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Virginia countryside.

The community's home styles range from ranchers to colonials. One plan includes an optional one bedroom apartment above the garage. You can choose from five participating builders and their various models:

1) Aaronal Homes ; 2) Atlantic Builders; 3) The Christopher Companies ; 4) Snead Custom Homes; 5) Spear Builders

The abundance of home choices makes it easy to find something suitable for just about anyone. Prices range from $180,000 - $500,000+. So, as you can see, there are plenty of options.

Ladysmith Village offers location, convenience and community. With so much at the tip of your fingers, whether it's recreation, community get-togethers, or just relaxing, its small town charm makes this an attractive place to call home.

To Continue Reading this Article, Click Here: When A Village Makes Sense

Well, I'm going to be working at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair on Saturday so if any of you are there also please come by and say hi.

I'll be sitting at one of the "political party" tables handing out literature. If you are not of the same persuasion I promise not to try to do any converting. That's not my style.

There are going to be so many activities so I'm sure there will be something for the whole family to enjoy.

When not "working the table" I plan to stroll around, see the sights and take as many photos as possible. I'd better make sure my card has plenty of room for loads of pictures and I have my spare battery with me just in case.

Here is a link to the schedule just in case you have some free time and want to have some fun, http://fredfair.net/

This may not be quite the same as the State Fair which I have attended, but I bet I have just as much fun. How about you?

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®.

Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Earlier in the week I was asked to attend a meeting at the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors® conference room. Was told that a group was meeting to discuss a blogsite for the Association. Apparently, there were some that thought that my presence on Active Rain indicated a propensity for blogging. Naturally, the blog would focus on homes for sale in the Fredericksburg VA area.

If the truth were known they would realize that my blogging is inversely proportional to the amount of real estate business I have. Oddly enough, I am quite busy now but do not want to let "my public" down. Therefore, this blog.

At the meeting some were explaining how "good" the market was. Plenty of listing appointments and plenty of listings! Personally, I have less than what I consider a manageable (spell check is not working!) number of listings. I do not consider this a "good" market at all.

The "Real Estate Trend Indicator" for the period 04/01/08 - 04/30/08 published by the Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. gives me reason to believe that the market has yet to improve to any great degree.

There were 3735 Active Listings at the end of the month and there were 310 homes sold during the month.

The median sold price between 2007 and 2008 was down 14.6%.

The total units sold during April 2007 was 343 and last month (as shown above) 310 homes sold.

The Average Sale price as a percentage of Average List price was 94.41% in 2007 while in 2008 it was 89.16%.

The figures I give are for the City of Fredericksburg VA, Stafford, King George, Spotsylvania, and Caroline Counties, VA.

Oh, wait! If you are working with buyers this is the time for you to get moving! There are lots of bargains out there if you can find them.

Maybe it is a "good" real estate market.

Did you know that the majority of foreclosure listings are on your local MLS?? There are many websites that charge to you get foreclosure lists from them when this infomrmation is out there for free!! That's right...I said it...for free!! You can contact your local friendly agent (hint hint) who can set you up on automatic emails, you will receive listings that fit your criteria....See homes as they come on the market!!! Buying a foreclosure has its challenges, so it's always good to have an agent who is familiar with the process....If you have questions or, want to receive automatic emails...call me, Konnie 703 407 7088

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Days like this come once in a life time!

I received an invitation to the White House for a celebration event honoring Military Spouses. My first instinct was that it had to be a hoax. I mentioned it to my husband that night he seemed intrigued. He was the voice of reason as I sat and pondered, "nothing ventured, nothing gained", right? The next morning I called the number as instructed to RSVP and to my surprise a pleasant young lady answered the phone “This is Courtney Public Relations at the White House.” Maybe, just maybe this might be the real deal. Courtney assured me that I would receive an e-mail in a couple of days with all of the pertinent details about my visit to the White House, it was confirmed.

Several days later, I received further instructions via e-mail and still could not believe that this was really going to happen. My excitment was beginning to grow but I still had some reservations (just seemed to good to be true). I would remain slightly skeptical until I was standing on the Southlawn of the WhiteHouse.

I drove to the White House Tuesday morning May 6th and met with several hundred other military spouses as we anxiously waited to enter the South Lawn Visitors Entrance. While in line, I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people. I became fast friends with two incredible individuals. First Melissa, a military spouse of 19 1/2 years. Her husband proudly serves in the USMC and is stationed at the Pentagon. Second was Jennifer a military spouse of 22 years. Her husband proudly serves in Army and is stationed at Fort Lee. It was the beginning of what I believe will be two life long friendships.

At 0800 I started the process through security and by 0810 I was on the Southlawn of the White House for breakfast, it was totally surreal. As you can see from the picture above, it was a beautiful day. The Marine Corp Band from Quantico played to entertain, they were amazing. Secretary of Defense Bob Gates gave a speech followed by President George Bush. My seat was amazing; I could literally reach out and touch the President. Phil Vasser sang the National Anthem and performed a mini concert after the President’s speech. We were then invited to tour the White House with our cameras. It just could not get any better, could it?

The Pomp and Circumstance of the day was heartfelt and as usual my eyes swelled with tears of pride for the amazing accomplishments of our military. I was honored to be standing in the presence of such amazing individuals that support there spouse and this great nation. The camaraderie of the military family is always strong,but there seemed to be something magical among us this particular day. Words can not describe it but I will always remember it. It takes an incredibly strong person to be a military spouse and I think that President Bush said it perfectly in his speech:

“It's not an easy life being in the military, particularly when we're at war, and I understand that. For many of you it means packing up your belongings and moving on short notice. I suspect a lot of you have been on the move much more than you thought you'd be on the move. (Laughter.) For others it means living in a foreign land, which can be exciting, but it also means you're far away from your extended family, and that's hard. And for many of you, it means missing a spouse as he or she serves on the front lines in this battle to secure our country and to spread freedom for the sake of peace.

Being left behind when a loved one goes to war has got to be one of the hardest jobs in the United States military. Talked to a lot of folks who have been in the theater, as well as spouses, and it is clear to me the harder job in many ways is to be the person at home taking care of the kids and having sleepless nights as you pray for safe return.

You're carrying out the burdens -- you're serving our country. And it's noble service. And it's necessary service. And the United States [of] America owes you a huge debt of gratitude. And so, on behalf of our people, thank you for what you're doing. (Applause.)

I do not believe that there was a dry eye among the crowd. I have personally had the privilege to serve this great nation in the United States Air Force. I continue to support my husband who currently has been on Active Duty in the Navy for 18 1/2 years. We have moved 10 times, my middle son who is 10 and in the 4th grade has been in 5 different elementary schools. We have learned first hand the meaning of the saying "what does not kill you makes you stronger." The camaraderie of the entire Military Family is something that words can truly not describe. I salute all servicemembers active, retired, reservists and last but not least the power behind power, their families.

It truly was a day that comes once in a lifetime. To learn about ways to support our troops and their spouses and families please visit www.americasupoortsyou.mil.

Relocating to the Greater Fredericksburg Area (Quantico, FT. Belvoir, Dalghren or Fort AP Hill) please contact me to assist with all of your Real Estate Needs. It would be my honor!

Dana Forster, REALTOR

A Home 4Sale, Inc.

Fredericksburg, Va 22407

(o) 540-548-0800 (c) 540-645-1354

Pictures by myself, copyrighted. 2008