Elaine VonCannon

YORK COUNTY VIRGINIA

By: Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES,REALTOR, Notary, Team Leader, Property Manager, Award Winner, RE/MAX Hall Of Fame

History in York County, Virginia

York County Virginia dates to Colonial times. It was first settled in 1633. York County is known for two of the greatest wars ever fought on American soil: The Civil War and The Revolutionary War. The Yorktown Battlefields are a national historic site overseen by the National Park Service. During the Revolutionary War, Yorktown was the place where General Cornwallis surrendered, after the final battle of the war for independence. In the Civil War era, Yorktown was a centrally located port that supplied either the Union or Confederate Army, depending upon which side held it as a stronghold. There are numerous historic homes in York County Virginia. Two historically significant homes in York County are The Nelson House and Cole Digges house. The Nelson House served as Thomas J. Nelson's birthplace and homestead and dates to 1711. Nelson was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Cole Digges house dates to 1720 and was the place where Lord Cornwallis surrendered to the Revolutionary Army in 1781. York County is rich in historical significance. There are many other historic homes in York County that date to the early 18^th Century. Some of these historic homes are open to the public and some are privately owned.

Why Relocate to York County, Virginia?

Many families and individuals love living in York County because it retains a rural character. York County is 27 miles long and 6 miles wide, covering a square mile distance of 108 miles. Homes here often come with small or large tracts of land and there is plenty of space between houses so residents have privacy. The waterman's way of life is still practiced in York County, largely because of its close proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, and the county's location on the shores of the York River. Old farmsteads, estate properties, plantations, horse farms, and farmettes are common in York County.

Rural, Suburban and City Living: A Way of Life in York County Virginia

York County, Virginia has rural characteristics, yet it is also a contemporary place where luxury homes, estate properties, and luxury homes can be found. The county is only 50 miles from Richmond and 25 miles to Norfolk. Both are urban centers where shopping, dining, cultural activities, and entertainment are in abundance. York County also has many choices when it comes to dining, with excellent seafood restaurants where fresh catches are served as well as an assortment of culinary styles to please any palette. Many county residents shop in or nearby the Patrick Henry Mall and surrounding establishments in Oyster Point -- a part of Newport News that is close to the York County line and easily accessible to those who live in the county.

Outdoor Parks in York County

One of the most popular places for recreation in York County is Yorktown. Historic Yorktown overlooks the York River. Yorktown Waterfront has 2 acres of beachfront land and is an excellent choice for swimming, sunbathing, fishing and boating. Nearby Riverwalk Landing provides a nice mix of restaurants and shops. Other outdoor areas in the county provide access to forests and fields as well as estuaries and inlets of the York River. These include: New Quarter Park, Kiln Creek Park, Back Creek Park, Wolf Trap Park, Charles Brown Park, Wormley Creek Landing, Chisman Creek Park, Rodgers Smith Landing, and Freight Shed. With so much open space to enjoy, it is no wonder residents of York County take such pride in their surroundings.

Economic Development in York County

Because it is close to international ports, Interstate 64, and rail lines York County is an ideal place for business. Low tax rates make York County especially attractive to businesses. The Naval Weapons Station/Cheatham Annex is one of the largest employers in the county. Other large employers in the area include the U.S. Coast Guard Station, Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, Water Country USA, Great Wolf Lodge, and Kings Creek Plantation. Numerous contemporary business and industrial parks dot the landscape of York County to support service and private industries' initiatives and commerce.

Schools in York County

Public education in York County is rated as one of the best in the Commonwealth in Virginia. In fact, many military and civilian families prefer York County to other areas because of the superior school system. Students who graduate from York County public schools consistently do well in standardized test scores and have a high rate of graduation. It is one of the leading locations where a high percentage of high school graduates continue on to secondary education. There are ten elementary schools, four middle schools and four high schools in York County, as well as a selection of private schools.

Continuing Education for Adults

For those adults who wish to continue their education, expand their knowledge base into new and exciting areas of academic study, or embark upon new careers --- York County is nearby a selection of excellent institutions. The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Christopher Newport University in Newport News, and Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia are all top-notch facilities where continuing education can be found. All of these campuses are within an easy commute for York County residents.

While York County retains a rural character and wholesomeness that gives residents a sense of home and belonging - it is also within a close enough distance to major urban areas so it does not feel remote. This combination makes York County an excellent place for the distinguished homebuyer to retire, relocate, or purchase a second home.

More information on counties in Virginia and estate homes go to www.estatesinvirginia.com for viewings. Elaine VonCannon and her team will be glad to assist you in all your real estate needs. Other web sites to view about Elaine VonCannon, Virginia and her listings go to www.voncannonrealestate.com or www.elainesrealestate.com Thank You for your time and interest.

Elaine is a published author on real estate both commercial, residential and property management. Her articles are on her web sites for you to read and enjoy.

Email: voncannonrealestate@gmail.com, Direct number: 757-288-4685

Newport News, VA is on the Move: Employment and Housing Opportunities

By: Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, NOTARY, PROPERTY MANAGER, TEAM LEADER, AWARD WINNER, RE/MAX Hall Of Fame

Newport News Virginia is a good place to relocate because the economic conditions there are good. While other areas of the U.S. struggle through a tough economy, businesses in Newport News are expanding. This article outlines the chief reasons for this.

Newport News, Virginia is a hotbed of economic activity, even in tough economic times. The port of Newport News is a well-established hub of activity, mainly due to the flagship company, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, the largest employer in the port with an average of 15,000-18,000 employees. Northrop Grumman Newport News holds an honorable place in a distinguished market. It is the only shipyard with capabilities of building U.S. Naval nuclear powered aircraft carriers. Furthermore, Northrop Grumman is one of only two shipyards in the United States that can actually build nuclear submarines. Because of its technological capabilities and specialty in this sector, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding is poised for growth and in step with the future.

Private Employers in Newport News VA

Other major private employers in Newport News include: Canon Virginia, Dan Daniels Distribution Center and Ferguson Enterprises. Icelandic USA and United Parcel Service, as well as Continental AG are medium sized employers with hubs located in Newport News, VA.

Many of the private sector jobs in Newport News are in the well paying high tech sector. These jobs are found in the manufacturing, distribution, teleservice and technology industries.

Two Major Employers in Newport News Announce Expansions

In December of 2008, when the economy was in the midst of a major downslide, Continental AG announced a $194 million investment in their Newport News office and added 318 new jobs. In May of 2008, Canon Inc. poured an additional $600 million into their operations in Newport News and announced the addition of more than 1,000 jobs to their facility. These are telltale signs that the Newport News economy is on the move, and that those searching for work just might find it in this part of Tidewater Virginia.

Military Relocation and Service Employment Opportunities

Private industry's investment in Newport News is only half the story as far as economic development is concerned. The backbone of the Newport News economy is the military and service sector. Newport News is home to the U.S. Army Transportation Center at Fort Eustis, which employs over 10,000 people. The Newport News School System employs 5,000-10,000 individuals, and Christopher Newport University, the City of Newport News and Riverside Regional Medical Center employ between 1,000-5,000 people each. There are diverse employment opportunities in Newport News spanning a wide breadth of professional jobs in the area. New residents are relocating to Newport News on a regular basis to engage in any number of professions.

Economic and Population Growth is Steady and on the Upswing

The Newport News Economic Development Authority reports that employment growth averages 1% annually and population increases .5% annually since 1990. In addition, Newport News has a lower cost of living than 20% of the thirty largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. With a high quality of life and a mild climate year round, there is ample reason for businesses and individuals to relocate to Newport News, Virginia.

Newport News is a City Where Affordable and Luxury Homes Can be Purchased

To illustrate the affordable cost of housing in Newport News the Newport News Economic Development Authority has broken down the percentage of homes into average price ranges. According to figures gathered from the agency's website, 60% of all residences in Newport News cost $200,000 or less. For the homeowner who wants to live on the water, on a golf course, or in a distinguished neighborhood where there are choices of luxury homes, Newport News has no shortage of these types of dwellings either. In fact the remaining 40% of housing is in the $200,000 plus range. Most professionals find it easy to locate a home that meets their lifestyle needs and expectations.

Property Management, Property Rentals, and Investment Property in Newport News

Based on solid economic indicators, those looking to purchase investment property in Newport News will be poised for success. The rental and property management market is thriving there. Alongside of economic growth in well paying industries, the demand for housing is steadily on the rise, too. Property investors should hire a qualified REALTOR to locate excellent investment opportunities and engage an experienced property manager to make the investment a lucrative one. Visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com for more information on purchasing a home or investment property in Newport News, VA.

Elaine is a published author on real estate both commercial, residential and property management. Her articles are on her web sites for you to read and enjoy.

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

Location, Resale and Staycation: Three New Buzzwords for Real Estate

By: Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, NOTARY, PROPERTY MANAGER, TEAM LEADER, AWARD WINNER, RE/MAX Hall of Fame

For those who are buying a home right now, there are several important details on locating the best property that are being ignored and must be considered. Many homebuyers are looking for a primary residence. First time homebuyers are searching for a home to live in this year in order to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit.

As I take homebuyers out in search of a residence, I have noted a pattern of behavior that is becoming more and more common. Homebuyers are looking for the deal of the century. They are basing their buying decisions solely on price. Yet as they focus on the best price that can possibly be negotiated, (which does matter) they lose sight of other parameters that need to be applied to the purchase of a home.

Purchasing a home in the right location for a person's chosen lifestyle, and eventual resale value, should be paramount in the homebuyer's mind. Yet price continues to be the main focus in buying property.

Short Sales and Foreclosures: Property Pricing Realities

It is true that pricing has been reduced on homes, especially in some of the larger markets, such as California, Florida, and urban markets -- where values have fallen dramatically. According to an article published by Les Christie on Money.com, "nearly 20% of the nation's home sales in 2008 were of bank-repossessed properties. Another 11% were short sales, in which homeowners owed more in mortgage debt than their homes were worth."

Between foreclosures and short sales there are good home buying deals to be had, but home buyers must remember that on these types of purchases banks will generally not go below 20-25% of appraised values.

In the case of purchasing foreclosed properties, homebuyers should be cautious about the condition of the home. If a homebuyer is purchasing a foreclosed property, it is wise to enter into the deal with capital for improvements, because these homes have been neglected due to lack of money. Some foreclosed properties have been intentionally damaged by angry homeowners who have had to abandon their homes under stressful financial circumstances.

With regard to short sales on homes, banks may take up to six months to approve a short sale. Some lenders are folding in the middle of the process, which adds more time to complete a short sale, because negotiations must begin again with the new lender.

Short sales and foreclosures do factor into property pricing. When a home in a neighborhood is sold for less than it is worth, pricing drops in that neighborhood.

So, with pricing in many markets at a three to five year low, why do home buyers continue to focus only on a great deal? Why have the cardinal rules of real estate purchases been pushed to the side? Location, resale values and lifestyle, which I refer here to as staycation, are just as important as price.

I will give an example of some of the major markets where I sell real estate, James City County, Williamsburg and Norfolk, and give a brief overview of how the rules of real estate purchase apply in these markets.

Williamsburg and James City County

For the avid golfer or person entering retirement, or even the family looking to raise children in a good schhool district, Williamsburg and James City County offer a wonderful lifestyle. There are numerous golf courses, dining, entertainment and continuing education opportunities. In addition Williamsburg and James City County offer one of the top school districts in Southeastern Virginia. In my experience over the long-term selling real estate in this market, resale values remain strong in well-established neighborhoods. In an age where the staycation, or staying at home during scheduled vacations, is becoming more common, Williamsburg has plenty of choices for quality entertainment. These include Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, Jamestown Settlement, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and numerous outdoor festivals and events that are free and open to the public. All of these factors should inform the purchase of a home in the Williamsburg and James City County real estate market.

Economic, Commercial and Residential Development in Norfolk, VA

In Norfolk, Virginia, where I have closed several residential property deals recently, the opening of a light rail system with stations in Ghent, downtown, and South Norfolk, has created tremendous real estate opportunities in both the residential and commercial sectors. In neighborhoods where light rail train stations will be located, resale values on properties purchased are sure to rise eventually. There are several reasons for this upswing in value. Urban professionals and families are embracing this state-of-the-art transportation system, and public and private organizations and investors are preparing for the influx of new traffic by updating existing properties and committing to building new projects. Taking light rail will cut down on time spent in traffic jams, and leave more time for recreation and spending time with loved ones - a desirable lifestyle for many. With access to Chesapeake Bay Beaches, the Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers, boating, swimming and recreating on or near the water are widely enjoyed in Norfolk, a world-class port city. Waterside is a main staging area for national and international festivals, and new light rail stations will be located nearby. Norfolk is an excellent place for a staycation. All of these factors should inform the purchase of a new home in this location.

In summary, location, resale, and lifestyle need to come to the forefront once again when individuals are deciding on where to purchase a home. Price will always be an important factor in the purchase of a home, but it should not be the only deciding point.

Elaine is a published author on real estate both commercial, residential and property management. Her articles are on her web sites for you to read and enjoy. Visit www.elainesrealestateinvirginia, www.voncannonrealestate.com and www.estatesinvirginia.com

Virginia Beach, Virginia the Largest City in Virginia

History in Virginia Beach, Virginia

By: Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, NOTARY, PROPERTY MANAGER, TEAM LEADER, AWARD WINNER, RE/MAX Hall of Fame

The history of Virginia Beach dates to Colonial times and the first English settlement at Jamestown Island. In 1607, the First Landing of three English ships destined for the new colonies occurred at Cape Henry on April 26. There, first contact was made with the Native American tribes who inhabited the region. The meeting was a peaceful one, and the ships and crew were able to restock supplies and move up the Chesapeake Bay towards their final destination on the James River, Jamestown Island, located at the south end of present day Williamsburg. During the 17th and 18th Century, historic estates and churches were built in Virginia Beach such as Weblin House, Ye Dudlies, Adam Keeling House, Thoroughgood House and Lynnhaven House. Many of these structures are still standing today, and have benefited from historical renovation and preservation projects.

Why Relocate to Virginia Beach, Virginia?

Although many might think that cities in Northern Virginia that border Washington D.C. are the most densely populated, or that Richmond, the capital city, has the highest population in Virginia --- Virginia Beach is actually the largest city in Virginia, with a population estimated at 430,000 people in 2008. As an independent city, it holds no county affiliation, though it was once a part of Princess Anne County. Oceana Naval Air Station is located in Virginia Beach, and so is a thriving tourism and health care industry. Many former military retire in the Virginia Beach area, because they have been posted in Hampton Roads for some time and love the seaside lifestyle. People who visit Virginia Beach regularly also purchase second homes in the area, to cut down on travel and lodging costs and to have more time to enjoy the beach and nightlife.

Boating: a Way of Life on the Oceanfront and Chesapeake Bay

The Virginia Beach lifestyle is a desirable one for the waterman or boater, because Virginia Beach is situated on the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. There are 38 miles of shoreline in Virginia Beach and 28 miles of public beaches, making it a veritable boater's paradise. For the boater looking for a slip or a place to rest, Rudee Inlet is located at the South End of Virginia Beach and offers the most easily accessible ocean going access. Fisherman's Wharf Marina is located in Rudee's Inlet. Marina Shores is located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, just off Great Neck Road and also provides easy ocean access. Some of the major public boat launches near the oceanfront and mouth of the Chesapeake Bay include Lynnehaven Boat Ramp, First Landing State Park Boat Ramp, and the Launch at Dozier Bridge. For a more complete listing of public boat launches in Virginia Beach, visit Coastal Travel Guide.

Schools in Virginia Beach

Because Virginia Beach is the largest city in Virginia Beach, the schools are too numerous to list here. Some of the top rated public schools include Kemps Landing Magnet School, Kingston Elementary School, and Salem Middle School. Private Schools that are well-known and respected in the Virginia Beach area include: Cape Henry Collegiate School, Chesapeake Bay Academy, Virginia Beach Friends School, and Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School.

Continuing Education for Adults

In Virginia Beach there are several excellent options for continuing education for adults. Norfolk State University provides continuing education for adults at the Virginia Beach Campus. Old Dominion University, based in Norfolk, Virginia, also has a Virginia Beach Higher Education Center where adults may seek graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates and participate in continuing education programs. In addition, ECPI College of Technology also offers continuing education programs geared towards new technology and its application. For the adult that desires a different type of continuing education, focused on alternative healing practices, massage, and more, the Cayce/Reily Massage School provides many different types of learning opportunities.

Outdoor Parks in Virginia Beach

In Virginia Beach, there are plenty of outdoor parks designed for public recreation and enjoyment. First Landing State Park, located on the Chesapeake Bay, and near the Oceanfront, offers wooded hiking and biking trails. False Cape State Park, located at the southern tip of Virginia Beach and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, provides access to dunes and beach areas that are pristine and have not be developed. Some other well known recreation areas include Little Island Park, Lynnhaven Park, and Red Wing Park, to name a few. For a complete listing visit the City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Page.

Elaine is a published author on real estate both commercial, residential and property management. Her articles are on her web sites for you to read and enjoy.

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

Prince George County Virginia, Close to Petersburg

History in Prince George County, Virginia

By: Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, NOTARY, PROPERTY MANAGER, TEAM LEADER, AWARD WINNER, RE/MAX Hall of Fame

Prince George County has a rich history that dates to the Colonial era. It was named for Prince George of Denmark, the husband of reigning monarch of England, Queen Anne. When the three ships came up the James River in 1607 to settle at Jamestown Island, John Martin sighted a tract of land along the James River further west than Jamestown

that he felt was appropriate for settlement. In 1616 Martin received a Land Grant in Prince George County called Brandon, right along the James River. In the 1720s, under the ownership of Nathaniel Harrison, Thomas Jefferson designed the main part of the mansion. Flowerdew Hundred, a 1,000-acre land grant, was acquired by Sir George Yeardley in 1619, and he had the first wind driven gristmill built there. Home to the Merchants Hope Church, built in 1657, it is the oldest Episcopal Church in America still standing and still in use. Richard Bland also lived in Prince George County, and he played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, serving as a delegate in the First and Second Continental Congress. During the Civil War, Appomattox Manor was General Grant's headquarters for the Union Army. Grant later moved his headquarters to Flowerdew Plantation, where he would orchestrate the siege of Petersburg. The collective history of Prince George County is fascinating because it impacted many events in Early America and during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.

Why Relocate to Prince George County, Virginia?

Prince George County is the perfect place to retire, relocate, or purchase a second home. Petersburg, Colonial Heights and Fort Lee, Virginia are the primary cities in Prince George County Virginia and each has its own distinct character. Petersburg is an urban center south of Richmond, Virginia that has always thrived. Boar's Head, Boehringer Ingelheim and Virginia Abrasives have operations in Petersburg and the travel industry is thriving. Colonial Heights is just 20 miles south of Richmond and Interstate 95 runs right through it. It has been identified as one of the key areas for retail businesses before traffic reaches the North Carolina border. Fort Lee is home to the Combined Arms Support Command of the U.S. Army, making it a busy post for supplying and training key military personnel across the world.

Rural, Suburban and City Living: A Way of Life in Prince George County Virginia

The Richmond-Petersburg Metropolitan Statistical Area in 2006 counted some 1,194,008 people living in the area. Prince George County itself has 36,000 residents. Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Fort Lee are cornerstones of urban and small town life. There are also plenty of property and homes outside of these areas for those who prefer suburban and rural living. For anyone wishing to retire, relocate or find a professional job in the area, the choices are wide and offer enough variation for most individuals.

Economic Development in Prince George County

With a plethora of private industry, government, and retail businesses in Prince George County, economic development is continuous. In 2004 and 2005, many military bases were closed across the United States. However, Fort Lee, Virginia has benefited from these closings. Because of military base shutdowns, 7,300 personnel were projected to be added to Fort Lee, setting the stage for regional and economic growth. Statistics from the Prince George Economic Development home page indicate that Fort Lee contributes 860 million dollars per year to the regional economy. Some of the larger companies with commercial investments in Prince George County include Norfolk Southern, Goya Foods, Ace Hardware, and Standard Motor Products. Industrial and Commercial properties as well as small business ventures are also being encouraged through special initiatives provided by Prince George Economic Development.

Schools in Prince George County

The public schools in Prince George County are expanding, largely due to the Defense Base Closure and Re-alignment Commission (BRAC) that is bringing more military personnel to the area. A new elementary school will be opened in September of 2009 and school district assignments will be altered at this time. For parents who would like to consider a private school for their child, they may select Bermuda Run Educational Center, an alternative school in Hopewell, or Woodlawn Christian School in Prince George.

Continuing Education for Adults

For adults interested in Continuing Education in Prince George County, there is a branch of John Tyler Community College in Chester Virginia, where many quality educational programs can be accessed. Another option for Continuing Education is the Richard Bland College of the College of William and Mary. For those who wish to travel to nearby Richmond, educational programs may be accessed at Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Virginia, and Virginia State University.

Outdoor Parks in Prince George County

Prince George County Virginia has three parks for public use: Scott Memorial Park, Temple Recreation Park, and Appomattox River Regional Park. These parks provide wooded trails, restrooms, and pavilion and picnic facilities to visitors. Prince George County Parks and Recreation Department also provides regularly scheduled adult activities, senior citizen activities, summer day camps, and tennis programs as well as periodic trips outside the county.

Elaine is a published author on real estate both commercial, residential and property management. Her articles are on her web sites for you to read and enjoy.

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