When it comes to short sale approvals, Wells Fargo's timelines are among the most desirable in the short sale business. That's coming from a Gainesville, VA short sale agent! From the time a complete short sale package arrives to Wells Fargo's short sale department, the days start ticking off to short sale approval. The target is thirty business days, though 
lately it's been more like 45 business days. And that's if there is only one loan you are working with. The time frame can easily double when you are working two loans, whether they are both with Wells Fargo or not.
Despite the well spelled out timelines and procedures, Wells Fargo short sale sellers can often find themselves at a loss for patience. The days go by and they hear nothing. Even if their short sale listing agent is calling with regular weekly updates, things can feel stalled. You see, when the short sale package is "under review", there is little news to deliver to the client. So you wait. And you wait. It can be maddening to a short sale seller.
The wait to a short sale seller is probably how I used to feel when Mom and Dad would put my brother and I in the back seat of our family car--the mint green Ford Galaxy--and head off to Grandma's. The trip was only four hours, but to a kid....it's an eternity. Mom and Dad used to try to quantify the time in Flintstone Shows. Dad would say, "We're half way there, only four Flinstone shows to go." Ugh!
My brother and I would do our best back seat theatrical presentation, trying to tick off the time with our interpretation of a Flintstone episode. We may have gotten five minutes in and all h*** broke loose. Then we were back to the incessant questioning, "How much longer?" NOTHING made that time go by any faster.
As the driver of the Wells Fargo short sale Ford Galaxy, I am here to reassure you that the time frame for short sale approval is ticking by and we will get there. Of course, it helps to get to that final destination of short sale approval when you have someone who has traveled the road before. I have a well worn road map that I am happy share as your Wells Fargo short sale listing agent.
Treat Yourself to a Gainesville Area Home for the Holidays!
With Thanksgiving just one week away, visions of that dream kitchen are no doubt coming to mind. I'm sure you are just wishing you had more counter space, maybe a center island and definitely double ovens. What else is in your dream kitchen?
No matter what your dream kitchen consists of, there is a good chance that we can put our head's together in between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to find it for you, wrapped up in a Gainesville, VA home.
With the first time buyer $8,000 tax credit extended to the Spring of 2010, and expanded to give $6,500 to homeowners of five years or more, there is no reason to not treat yourself to a Gainesville area home for the holidays. Your home buying dollar goes much farther in Prince William County than it will anywhere in Fairfax County.
Let's make your kitchen dreams come true this holiday, so you can spend next holiday season preparing those holiday meals in your Gainesville, VA home.
Long & Foster Gainesville is hosting an annual Coats for Kids Drive. If you are a resident of Gainesville, Bristow or Haymarket, Virginia, here's your chance to make a difference in someone's world this winter. Bring in your donation of a new or clean, lightly used coat, mittens, gloves, scarf, or hat to our office. Adult outwear is also welcome.
The Long & Foster Gainesville office is located at 7526 Limestone Drive, Gainesville, VA. From the intersection of Route 29 & Linton Hall Road; take Linton Hall Road South; at the 3rd traffic light turn left onto Wellington Road; take a left onto Limestone Drive. Long & Foster Gainesville will be on the corner of the strip of shops, across the street from 7-Eleven.
Donations will be taken through March 31, 2010. Call 571-261-1400 for office hours.
Thank you for your donations!
Long & Foster in Gainesville, VA is happy to be a collection site for Toys for Tots. Simply stop by our offcie to drop off your donation of a new, unwrapped toy.
The Long & Foster Gainesville office is located at 7526 Limestone Drive, Gainesville, VA. From the intersection of Route 29 & Linton Hall Road; take Linton Hall Road South; at the 3rd traffic light turn left onto Wellington Road; take a left onto Limestone Drive. Long & Foster Gainesville will be on the corner of the strip of shops, across the street from 7-Eleven.
To check our business hours, please call 571-261-1400.
Toys will collected until December 18th. Bring a smile to a child's face this Christmas. Drop off your new, unwrapped toy and know you have made a differnce in someone's life this holiday season.
Ah, Sunday. A day for me. A day to do whatever I wanted. No Bank of America short sales to deal with on MY day. I had nowhere to be. No one to meet. My time was my own, and I made good use of it. I did laundry, cooked, and worked on my 2010 busines plan. I even had my trash and recycle out at the curb at a reasonable hour. I wasn't scrambling to get it together at Midnight after startling awake on my couch.
What I was not expecting, was to have a cat with diarrhea at 10pm. Diarrhea that was preceded, and accompanied by, vomiting. My little two year Shadow was miserable, and naturally, our regular vet is closed on Sunday. Why do these things always happen at the most inconvenient time? My husband and I packed Shadow into his kitty carrier and drove one hour to 
the ER Vet. (Yes, there is one closer, but they nearly killed one of my cats two years ago. Unless they can't breathe or have a limb falling off, my cats go to the ER Vet recommended by my regular vet.) Diagnosis: Gastroenteritis caused by one of Shadow's favorite foods--Swiss Chard.
As I checked in our sick boy this morning (locked in the laundry room, of course), and cleaned up the "finale", I had that same sense of calm come over me that I get when I get approval on a Bank of America short sale. No more suprises flying out at me. Things were looking good.
As a Gainesville, VA short sale agent, I can tell you with absolute certainty that Bank of America short sales have a lot in common with my sick cat. Bank of America's short sale process is long, messy and you never know what's going to happen next. Whatever does happen, I know that as a Gainesville short sale agent, it will be my job to clean it up and "make it better." Bank of America lost the file they've had for two months? Send it again. Bank of America is demanding a promissory note of the sellers? Negotiate the amount down to a number managable to the sellers. Bank of America is contradicting themselves? That's my favorite part of the job. Point out the date and time of the statement made that contradicts whatever the hourly service center employee, or negotiator, just gave me. I keep copious notes.
Shadow's sickness came on suddenly, and looks like it will clear up within twenty four hours. Bank of America short sales can take a MINIMUM of 4 months to get approval from the time a contract is submitted. These days, those approval letters seem to be taking an average of six months to get. No matter when it comes, once you have the approval letter in your hand (and no second trusts on your property) you can expect your Bank of America short sale to go to closing within 30 days.
If you may be facing a short sale and would like an agent who isn't afraid of hard work, or the messes that come with a Bank of America short sale, give me a call. Consider me your Bank of America short sale ER doc.
Serving Prince William, Fairfax, Fauquier & Loudoun Counties as a Realtor and Short Sale Specialist. A full-time professional that can be your Trusted Advisor in your next real estate transaction.
In February 2005 I started my career as a Realtor, having no idea what was in store for me. I had graduated with a BA in Communications from George Mason University in 1993 and spent years in the newspaper and radio industries, so I was certainly stepping into an unknown world. The satisfaction I have found in my real estate career is beyond anything I could have imagined. Helping my buyers and sellers navigate the transactions that involve their largest finanical investment is rewarding each and every time.
Since beginning real estate in 2005, each year has been better than the last. Because the real estate market in 2005 was just teetering at the top before its rollercoaster dive that followed, I gained skills that many Realtors have avoided. For instance, I delved head first into the world of Short Sales and began helping homeowners who were facing foreclosure. All of this, and the skills that I learned in my previous career in media marketing, have given me an edge when it comes to selling residential real estate.
I believe strongly in education. I am active in the Prince William Association of Realtors (PWAR) Education Committee where I serve as Co-Chair. It is here that I help to further my own education, and the education of the Realtors in the Prince William County community. In November 2007 I became a GRI (Graduate of the Realtor Institute) and have become a VREB (Virginia Real Estate Board) approved instructor for PWAR on the topic of Short Sales. I am also a Technology Instructor for new agents joining the ranks of my chosen brokerage, Long & Foster.
I pride myself on my professionalism, determination and commitment to customer service. Be aware, I also have a strong sense of humor and don't enter into any transaction without it. You never know when you'll need it. Buying or selling a home is a serious matter, but it doesn't have to be void of fun.
Climbing my way up through the roughest real estate market known in recent history to become a Top Producer has given me invaluable lessons. Those lessons have become the foundation of my business and will continue to serve my clients well into the future. Whether you are a first time buyer, selling your third home, or facing foreclosure, I am here to be your Trusted Advisor.
SHORT SALES
Successful in personally negotiating and closing short sales with Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Countrywide, Chevy Chase, Capital One, HSBC, Citibank, ASC, Ocwen and more.
Certified VREB instructor on Short Sales for Virginia Realtors.
Featured in Elizabeth Weintraub's Book The Short Sale Saviour.
FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS
Patient and knowledgeable in areas that concern First Time Buyers. No first time buyer of mine ever feels rushed or that they don't know what they are signing when they make an offer.
RESIDENTIAL LISTING AGENT
My media marketing background gives me a special edge when it comes to selling your home. I know how to market your property for maximum effect to get it sold quickly and for as much money as possible.
BRAEMAR COMMUNITY EXPERT
As a resident of Braemar since 2004, and the President of the Tartan Hills Village Board of Directors since 2007, I have an insider's knowledge of Braemar and its various sub-assosications. I have been tracking Braemar Property Values since mid-2005 and the average values can be found on my website: www.nvarealestate.net.
ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES
In the Gainesville, VA area we have three well-known Active Adult communities. These are communities that are designed for residents ages 55 or better. If you are thinking of buying or selling in Dunbarton, Heritage Hunt or Regency, I have the knowledge to help you.
Chris Ann, I can't express my gratitude enough! Thank you for all your communications to me on this not so fun short sale. You've been great to work with. Hui-Ling _______________________________________________ Hi Chris Ann,
_________________________________________ Chris Ann was very helpful in the purchase of my home. I would recommend Chris Ann to anyone looking to sell or buy real estate. Rebecca Livengood First Time Homebuyer _________________________________________
I can't thank you enough for helping me find a townhome in Manassas, especially since I drove into Manassas with no appointment previously arranged with you - you took my cold call and ran with it.
Within three days of having never met, you managed to understand me and my needs, and find the perfect place - in my experience, that's miraculous.
And I have never met a realtor who had their own polarity meter for checking receptacles in a home - I think that just goes to show how committed you are to getting folks not only the right place for them, but also making sure the place is indeed "right."
A million thanks.
Best regards,
Mark Gill
Dear Chris Ann:
Just a quick note to let you know how much we appreciate everything you have done for us. We had such a blast with you and can't imagine doing all of this with any other Realtor.
Heidi, Ron & Grace Warner
First Time Homebuyers
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Chris Ann was not only superb in helping us locate the house we wanted, but she was a dilligent worker prior to close.
Chris Ann was referred to me by a friend. My boyfriend and I, at the time, were looking at anything as cheap as possible, not knowing anything about real estate. She took the time to explain the difference of foreclosures, short sales, and regular sales. She worked hard at our first contract on a short sale condo that fell through. Never discouraged, Chris Ann took the time to take a step back, let us re-evaluate our needs and continue forward.
She obviously was a tremendous help to us in the market, but moreover-EXCELLENT in her customer service. She was always willing to bend over backwards by meeting us anywhere, anytime, and answered every single question we had (and believe me-we had plenty)!
We have been very happy in our new home and can't ever forget that Chris Ann was the one who got us here. We have her "sold" postcard she gave us on our refrigerator and will not take it down. It makes us proud to own a home and we owe a tremendous amount of thanks to Chris Ann for giving us that feeling. That's something we can never repay her for.
She's one in a million! I can't say enough about her.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Hessberg & Richard Hirst
First Time Homebuyers
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Chris Ann:
We are so incredibly lucky to have picked you out of that haystack. We never doubted that you always had our best interests in mind. Thank you so much for all you have given to us. You are forever welcome to our home, you're family!
With Love & Appreciation,
Thuy & Jeremy Beinert
First Time Homebuyers
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Dear Chris Ann:
Thank you for all your help in my home search and purchase. Working with you was definitely enjoyable. You are very patient, kind, informative and pleasant.
Every time we went out to look at homes, you were prepared. You had done your homework, making what could have been an overwhelming process,easy.
You are extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about your job. You better believe that I will be calling you when I am ready to sell my new home and move up to another. And I will not hesitate to send my family and friends to you, as I know they will have an outstanding agent working for them
Thanks again for all your hard work.
Sincerely,
J.D. Gheen
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Chris Ann is a driven and professional real estate professional. She is extremely knowledgable about market conditions and the home buying process. Chris Ann is tireless in her efforts whether it is to help find that perfect home for a buyer or selling an existing home. She is especially good at listening to what is important to a client, so that she can be sure to meet their expectations. In every case that I have worked with Chris Ann she has not only met expectations, but exceeded them.
Laura Pullen/Prosperity Mortgage
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Dear Chris Ann Cleland,
Thank you so much for helping us find our first home! When we moved to Northern Virginia we thought that we would never be able to own a home. With your help, our dream of homeownership has come true. Some of my co-workers who graduated from college with me last year always ask, "How were you able to buy a house in less than a year of graduating from college?" My answer is, "I have an excellent real estate agent." You have grown from just our real estate agent to our friend. For that, we are grateful.
Thank you,
James & Nikki Howell
First Time Homebuyers
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Dear Chris Ann,
I want to take a moment to thank you for all that you have done. I was at a point that I felt I wouldn't sell my house. I had been through several real estate agents and I wasn't getting even one bite on my house. Then you came along with your expertise, creativity and consistent positive attitude. I started to hope again. You got people to notice and become interested in my house. Eventually it sold and now is becoming a home again.
I have to also thank you for your patience. My personal life was a big part of why I had to put my house on the market. Unfortunately, at times you were in the middle. Your mediation skills were put to good use and you went above and beyond your real estate agent role.
I can't thank you enough for what you did.
Sincerely,
Shannon Russo
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Dear Chris Ann,
You are a class act! We really enjoyed working with you and will refer anyone we know. And, of course, if we decide to buy or sell in the future we would love to have your help and expertise. Thanks again for all of your help and hard work. We'll stay in touch!
Jeff, April, Sydney & Abbey Hunt
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To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is to acknowledge my complete satisfaction with the services that Ms. Chris Ann Cleland has provided as my Realtor in the purchase of my new home. Ms. Cleland provided current and accurate information that aided in the decision making process of selecting my new home; she was able to supply alternate options when it came to hiring a mortgage lender that saved me a whole percentage point on my loan.
She is hard working, willing to go the extra mile for her clients, and she will do everything she can to help you have a non-traumatic, minimal stress settlement. She does her homework, she does not wait until the last minutes, and you have all the information as it is occuring in the process. For a first-time homebuyer, this has proven to be an invaluable asset.
I would highly recommend Ms. Cleland for any of your real estate needs.
Most Sincerely,
Nichole Charlton
First Time Homebuyer
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Dear Chris Ann,
We wanted to thank you for all the time and effort you put into helping us find our home. As first-time buyers we were quite unsure of ourselves, as we ventured into the unknown, but you made the process so much easier.
It was especially important to us that we not feel pressured into making a commitment we were not ready for or comfortable with. Although you understood the necessity to act fast in this crazy market, you also understood the enormity of the decision that we had to make and you respected our hesitation and our excitement.
We were lucky to find you and will keep you mind should our friends or family require a realtor in the future. We will be calling you in a few years when the time comes to sell our "starter" home and move on up!
All the best,
Karen & Pernell Disney
First Time Homebuyers
Dear Chris Ann,
THANK YOU!!!! You made this move so much easier than we ever expected it to be. From selling our home within three days, to finding packers for our truck (at the last minute), playing "Catopoly" with our kids, to all the other little details done behind the scenes that made this move go so smoothly. THANK YOU again and again.
Your professionalism, attention to detail, understanding of the stress of moving, and your willingness to go the extra steps are the reasons that you are so much more to us than the realtor who sold our house.
You are the perfect person for home sales and we expect to see you as number one in your area in no time at all.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Dikranis & Dona Leith
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