Articles Tagged "Montague Miller news"

Your vacation is just around the corner. One thing you might not have planned is double-checking your home security.

The security of your home is just as important as your hotel reservations and flight schedule. These simple steps will help you avoid coming home to find your valuables were stolen or your house damaged.

1. Newspaper and Mail
   Either ask a neighbor to bring in your newspapers and mail or stop deliveries until after vacation. You can also stop any scheduled UPS package deliveries. UPS will hold them for up to 30 days. Mail and newspapers piling up in your mailbox are sure signs that you're away.
   
   
2. Light Timer
   Plug several lights throughout your home into a timer. It's also a good idea to have your television or speakers on the timer to create noise. Stagger the settings so your lights don't always come on simultaneously every day. You can pair many timers with an app on your smartphone so that you can control it from anywhere.
   
   
3. Home Improvement
   Before leaving for vacation, mow the lawn, trim your shrubs, wash the windows and clean up the yard. An overgrown lawn is a sure giveaway that no one is home. Burglars are less likely to target a well-maintained home, thinking someone is there. If you're planning an extended trip, hire someone to mow and water the lawn and make other small home improvements while you're away. For example, if a storm blows through, have someone pick up fallen branches and knocked over lawn furniture.
   
   
4. Check the Locks
   If you don't have durable deadbolts, consider replacing them before you leave. Lock all your windows, the garage door, the basement door, and any deck entryways. Secure every entry into your home. If you have a house key hidden outside, remove it because an experienced burglar will find it. Give your house key directly to any person you have coming to your house to water your plants or feed your fish while you're away.
   
   
5. Let The Authorities Know
   Before heading out the door, call the local police and let them know the dates you'll be out of town. Most local PDs send a police car by your home a few times, making sure nothing looks amiss.
   
   
6. Leave The Blinds Open
   Many people think it's better to close the window blinds, so no one can peek into the house while on vacation. This is actually not a good idea. If everyone in the neighborhood has window shades pulled up and your house has the shades down, it's a red flag.

With these tips, you can relax on your vacation without worrying about what's going on back home.

Charlottesville Area Association REALTORS® inducted Barbara McMurry of Montague Miller & Co. – Westfield to the CAAR REALTOR® Hall of Fame, the highest career honor. This accolade acknowledges outstanding and exceptional contributions for more than 25 years of continuous service to the local, state, and national Associations.

Montague Miller & Company is pleased to announce that our associates were awarded the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS® 2021 Professional Honor Society Awards commending member achievements for 2021 - Percy Montague, IV, Trish Owens, Anita Dunbar, Rives Bailey, Pat Sury, Patricia A. Crabtree, and John Farmer.

Montague Miller & Company is pleased to announce that our associates Cindy Reed and Carrie Brown in our Madison Office received the Greater Piedmont REALTORS® 2021 Honor Society Awards commending member achievements for 2021.

We're still in a seller's market, but that doesn't mean your home is guaranteed to easily sell.¹ If you want to maximize your sale price, it's still important to prepare your home before putting it on the market.

Start by connecting with a real estate agent as soon as possible. Having the eyes and ears of an insightful real estate professional on your side can help you boost your home's appeal to buyers. What's more, beginning the preparation process early allows you to tackle repairs and upgrades that can increase your property's value.

Use the checklist below to figure out what other tasks you should complete in the months leading up to listing your home. While everyone's situation is unique, these guidelines will help you make sure you're ready to sell when the time is right. Of course, you can always call us if you're not sure where to start or what to tackle first. We can help customize a plan that works for you.

AS SOON AS YOU THINK OF SELLING

Some home sellers want to plan their future move far in advance, while others will be required to pack up on very short notice. Whatever your circumstances, these first steps will help assure you'll be ahead of the listing game.

• Contact Your Real Estate Agent

We go the extra mile when it comes to servicing our clients, and that includes a series of complimentary, pre-listing consultations to help you prepare your home for the market.

Some sellers make the mistake of waiting until they are ready to list their home to contact a real estate agent. But we've found that the earlier we're brought into the process, the better the result. That often means a faster sale—and more money in your pocket after closing.

We know what buyers want in today's market, and we can help devise a plan to maximize your property's appeal. We can also connect you with our trusted network of contractors, vendors, and service professionals, so you'll be sure to get the VIP treatment. This network of support can alleviate stress and help ensure you get everything done in the weeks or months leading up to listing.

• Address Major Issues and Upgrades

In most cases, you won't need to make any major renovations before you list. But if you're selling an older home, or if you have any doubt about its condition, it's best to get us involved as soon as possible so we can help you assess any necessary repairs.

In some instances, we may recommend a pre-listing inspection. Although it's less common in a seller's market, a pre-listing inspection can help you avoid potential surprises down the road. We can discuss the pros and cons during our initial meeting.

This is the time to address major structural, systems, or cosmetic issues that could hurt the sale of your home down the line. For example, problems with the frame, foundation, or roof are likely to be flagged on an inspection report. Issues with the HVAC system, electrical wiring, or plumbing may cause the home to be unsafe. And sometimes outdated or unpopular design features can limit a home's sales potential.

Remember, when you're dealing with major repairs or renovations, it's best to give yourself as much time as possible. Given rampant labor and material shortages, starting right away can help you avoid costly delays.² Contact us so we can guide you on the updates that are worth your time and investment.

1 MONTH (OR MORE) BEFORE YOU LIST

Once any large-scale renovations have been addressed, you can turn your attention to the more minor updates that still play a major role in how buyers perceive your home.

• Make Minor Repairs

Look for any unaddressed maintenance or repair issues, such as water spots, pest activity, and rotten siding. This is the time to take care of those small annoyances like squeaky hinges, sticking doors, and leaky faucets, too.

Many of these issues can be handled by going the DIY route and using a few simple tools. Tackle the ones you can and be sure to call a professional for the ones you're not comfortable doing yourself. We can refer you to local service providers who can help.

Remember that it's easy to overlook these small issues because you live with them. When you work with us, you get a fresh set of eyes on your home—so you don't miss any important repairs that could make a big difference to buyers.

• Refresh Your Design

This is a great time to think about some simple design updates that can make a significant impression on buyers. For example, a fresh coat of paint is an easy and affordable way to spruce up your home. One survey found that interior paint offered a 107% return on investment.³ For broad appeal, opt for warm, neutral colors.

 And never underestimate the importance of good curb appeal. Homes with good curb appeal sell for 7% more, on average, than similar homes with an "uninviting exterior."⁴ If weather permits, lay fresh sod where needed, plant colorful flowers, and add some new mulch to your beds.

Even just repositioning your furniture can make a huge difference to buyers. A survey by the Real Estate Staging Association found that staged homes sold faster, and 73% sold over list price.⁵ We can refer you to a local stager or offer our insights and suggestions if you prefer the DIY route.

• Declutter and Depersonalize

Doing a little bit of decluttering every day is a lot easier than trying to take care of it all at once right before your home hits the market. A simple strategy is to do this one room at a time, working your way through each space whenever you have a bit of free time. 

Start by donating or discarding items that you no longer want or need. Then pack up any seasonal items, family photos, and personal collections you can live without for the next few weeks. Bonus: This will give you a head start on packing for your move!

1 WEEK BEFORE YOU GO TO MARKET

With just one week before your home is available for sale, all major items should be crossed off your to-do list. Now it's time to focus on the small details that will really make your home shine. Here are a few key areas to focus on during this last week.

• Check-In With Your Agent

 We'll connect again to make sure we're aligned on the listing price, marketing plan, and any remaining prep. We will be there every step of the way, ensuring you're fully prepared to maximize the sale of your home.

• Tidy Your Exterior

You've already done the major landscaping—now it's time to tackle the last few details. Make sure your lawn is freshly mowed, hedges are trimmed, and flower beds are weeded.

 In addition, now is the time to clean your home's exterior if you haven't already. Power wash your siding, empty the gutters, and wash all your windows and screens.

• Deep Clean Your Interior

 Your house should be deep cleaned before listing, including a thorough deodorizing of the home's interior and steam cleaning for all carpets. Consider hiring a professional cleaning company to ensure the space smells and looks as fresh as possible.

 In addition to cleaning, take some time to tidy up. Buyers will look inside your closets, pantries, and cabinets, so make sure they are neat and organized. Small appliances and toiletries should be cleared off the countertops.

DAY OF SHOWING

 Now you're all set to go and there are just a few small things you need to handle on the day of showings or open houses. Do a final walk-through and take care of these finishing touches to give potential buyers the best possible impression.

• Pre-Showing Prep

Happy and comfortable buyers are more likely to submit offers! Make them feel at home by adjusting the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Open any blinds and curtains throughout the house, and turn on all lights so buyers can see all the potential in your home.

 Then tidy up by vacuuming and sweeping floors, emptying (or hiding) trash cans, and wiping down countertops. In the bathrooms, close toilet lids and hang clean hand towels.

 Don't forget to secure firearms, jewelry, sensitive documents, prescription medications, and any other items of value in a safe or store them off-site.

 Finally, it's best to have pets out of the house during showings. If possible, you should also remove evidence of pets (litter box, dog beds, etc.), which can be a turn-off for some buyers.

DON'T WAIT TO PREP YOUR HOME FOR SELLING

 If you want to get top dollar for your home, don't put it on the market before it's ready. The right preparation can make all the difference when it comes to maximizing the offers you get. The upgrades and changes you need to make will depend upon your home's condition, so don't wait to speak with an agent.

 Call our team if you're thinking about selling your home, even if you're not sure when. It's never too early to seek the guidance of your real estate agent and start preparing your home to sell.

 Sources:

1. Fortune -
   https://fortune.com/2022/02/08/should-i-buy-house-sellers-market-housing-real-estate-fannie-mae/
2. Forbes -
   https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/labor-materials-shortage-impacts-renovations/
3. PR Web -
   https://www.prweb.com/releases/2012-homegain/home-improvement-survey/prweb9433460.htm
4. Realtor Magazine -
   https://magazine.realtor/daily-news/2020/01/27/how-much-does-curb-appeal-affect-home-value
5. Real Estate Staging Association -
   https://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=304550&module_id=164548

The annual inflation rate in the United States is currently around 7.5%—the highest it has been since 1982.¹ It doesn't matter if you're a cashier, lawyer, plumber, or retiree; if you spend U.S. dollars, inflation impacts you.

Economists expect the effects of inflation, like a higher cost of goods, to continue.² Luckily, an investment in real estate can ease some of the financial strain.

Here's what you need to know about inflation, how it impacts you, and how an investment in real estate can help.

WHAT IS INFLATION AND HOW DOES IT IMPACT ME?

Inflation is a decline in the value of money. When the rate of inflation rises, prices for goods and services go up. Therefore, a dollar buys you a little bit less with every passing day. 

The consumer price index, or CPI, is a standard measure of inflation. Based on the latest CPI data, prices increased 7.5% from January 2021 to January 2022.¹ A little bit of inflation is considered healthy for the economy, but 7.5% in a single year is high.

How does inflation affect your life? Here are a few of the negative impacts:

• Decreased Purchasing Power We touched on this already, but as prices rise, your dollar won't stretch as far as it used to. That means you'll be able to purchase fewer goods and services with a limited budget.

• Increased Borrowing Costs In an effort to curb inflation, the Federal Reserve is expected to raise the federal funds rate. Therefore, consumers are likely to pay a higher interest rate on new mortgages, car loans, and variable-rate credit cards.³

• Lower Standard of Living  Wage growth tends to lag behind price increases. According to Moody Analytics, when adjusted for inflation, average weekly earnings in January were down 3.1% from a year earlier.⁴ As such, life is becoming less affordable for everyone. Inflation can force those on a fixed income, like retirees, to make lifestyle changes and prioritize essentials.

• Eroded Savings  If you store all your savings in a bank account, inflation is even more damaging. As of February 2022, the national average interest rate for a savings account is 0.06%, not nearly enough to keep up with inflation. And economists don't expect that rate to go much higher.³

One of the best ways to mitigate these effects is to find a place to invest your money other than the bank. Even though interest rates are expected to rise, they're unlikely to get high enough to beat inflation. If you hoard cash, the value of your money will decrease every year and more rapidly in years with elevated inflation.

REAL ESTATE: A PROVEN HEDGE AGAINST INFLATION

So where is a good place to invest your money to protect (hedge) against the impacts of inflation? There are several investment vehicles that financial advisors traditionally recommend, including:

• Stocks Some people invest in stocks as their primary inflation hedge. However, the stock market can become volatile during inflationary times, as we've seen in recent months.⁵

• Commodities  Commodities are tangible assets, like oil, livestock, and minerals. The theory is that the price of commodities should climb alongside inflation. But the classic choice–gold–hasn't risen consistently during periods of inflation since the 1970s, according to data from Morningstar Direct.⁶

• Inflation-Indexed Bonds Treasury inflation-protected securities, or TIPS, are U.S. government-issued bonds that are indexed to the inflation rate. Bonds are considered low risk, but the returns they offer are generally low, as well.⁷

• Real Estate  Real estate prices across the board tend to rise along with inflation and often rise faster than inflation.⁸ That's one of the reasons demand for real estate is soaring right now.⁹

We believe real estate is the best hedge against inflation. Owning real estate does more than protect your wealth—it can actually make you money. For example, home prices rose nearly 17% from 2020 to 2021, 10% ahead of the 7% inflation that occurred in the same timeframe.¹⁰

Plus, certain types of real estate investments can help you generate a stream of passive income. In the past year, property owners didn't just avoid the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation; they got ahead.

TYPES OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

Though there are myriad ways to invest in real estate, there are three basic investment types that we recommend for beginner and intermediate investors. Remember that we can help you determine which options are best for your financial goals and budget.

Primary Residence

If you own your home, you're already ahead. The advantages of homeownership become even more apparent in inflationary times. As inflation raises prices throughout the economy, the value of your home is likely to go up concurrently. At the same time, you've locked in a set mortgage payment for the next 30 years, so you'll be immune to rising rental costs.

If you don't already own your primary residence, homeownership is a worthwhile goal to pursue.

Though the task of saving enough for a down payment may seem daunting, there are several strategies that can make homeownership easier to achieve. If you're not sure how to get started with the home buying process, contact us. Our team can help you find the strategy and property that fits your needs and budget.

Whether you already own a primary residence or are still renting, now is a good time to also start thinking about an investment property. The types of investment properties you'll buy as a solo investor generally fall into two categories: long-term rentals and short-term rentals.

Long-Term (Traditional) Rentals

A long-term or traditional rental is a dwelling that's leased out for an extended period. An example of this is a single-family home where a tenant signs a one-year lease and brings all their own furniture.

Long-term rentals are a form of housing. For most tenants, the rental serves as their primary residence, which means it's a necessary expense. This unique quality of long-term rentals can help to provide stable returns in uncertain times, especially when we have high inflation.

To invest in a long-term rental, you'll need to budget for maintenance, repairs, property taxes, and insurance. You'll also need to have a plan for managing the property. But a well-chosen investment property should pay for itself through rental income, and you'll benefit from appreciation as the property rises in value.

We can help you find an ideal long-term rental property to suit your budget and investment goals. Reach out to talk about your needs and our local market opportunities. 

Short-Term (Vacation) Rentals

Short-term or vacation rentals function more like hotels in that they offer temporary accommodations. A short-term rental is defined as a residential dwelling that is rented for 30 days or less. The furniture and other amenities are provided by the property owner, and today many short-term rentals are listed on websites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

A short-term rental can potentially earn you a higher return than a long-term rental, but this comes at the cost of daily, hands-on management. With a short-term rental, you're not just entering the real estate business; you're entering the hospitality business, too.

Done right, short-term rentals can be both a hedge against inflation and a profitable source of income. As a bonus, when the home isn't being rented you have an affordable vacation spot for yourself and your family!

Contact us today if you're interested in exploring options in either the long-term or short-term rental market. Mortgage rates are expected to rise, so you'll want to act fast to maximize your investment return.

WE'RE INVESTED IN HELPING YOU

Inflation is a fact of life in the U.S. economy. Luckily, you can prepare for inflation with a carefully managed investment portfolio that includes real estate. Owning a primary residence or investing in a short-term or long-term rental will help you both mitigate the effects of inflation and grow your net worth, which makes it a strategic move in our current financial environment.

If you're ready to invest in real estate to build wealth and protect yourself from rising inflation, contact us. Our team of real estate professionals at Montague Miller & Co, Realtors, can help you find a primary residence or investment property that meets your financial goals. 

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

1. Bloomberg -
   https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-10/u-s-inflation-charges-higher-with-larger-than-forecast-gain
2. CNN -
   https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/01/economy/inflation-prices-2022-preview/index.html
3. CNBC -
   https://www.cnbc.com/2022/01/26/the-fed-sets-the-stage-for-a-rate-hike-heres-what-that-means-for-you.html
4. Reuters -
   https://www.reuters.com/business/us-consumer-prices-rise-strongly-january-weekly-jobless-claims-fall-2022-02-10/
5. NBC News -
   https://www.nbcnews.com/business/markets/market-slide-dow-falls-700-points-sp-enters-correction-territory-rcna13304
6. CNBC -
   https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/20/gold-is-losing-its-status-as-an-inflation-hedge-two-traders-warn.html
7. Morningstar -
   https://www.morningstar.com/articles/1079158/why-are-inflation-protected-bond-funds-losing-money
8. The Washington Post -
   https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/01/04/heres-how-inflation-could-affect-your-next-real-estate-move/
9. Bloomberg -
   https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-24/is-real-estate-a-good-investment-hedge-against-inflation-what-the-experts-say
10. CNN -
    https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/20/homes/us-nar-home-sales-december-and-2021/index.html

Congratulations to our Montague Miller & Co, Top Producers 2019!

Congratulations to our Montague Miller & Co, 2019 4th Quarter Top Producers!

Credit: CAAR 2020 Installation of Officers Meeting photography provided by Tod Cohen Photography. Left to right: CAAR Second 2019 GNA sponsor Hal Johnson of Guaranteed Rate, CAAR Second 2019 GNA recipient Rives Bailey, The Arc of the Piedmont Executive Director John Santoski, and CAAR 2019 President Tele Jenifer.

CAAR has announced Rives Bailey REALTOR® with Montague, Miller & Company REALTORS, as the recipient of the CAAR Second 2019 Good Neighbor Award (GNA), sponsored by Hal Johnson at Guaranteed Rate.

The Good Neighbor Award program highlights local REALTORS® who dedicate significant time and interest to projects that make a lasting impact on our communities.

Bailey has been volunteering with The Arc of the Piedmont, an organization that provides services to people with intellectual and development disabilities, for five years.

A special Thank You to all of our customers and clients for the opportunity to serve you throughout 2019! It has been our pleasure helping you in your journey to realize "When a House Becomes a Happy Home! 

Most of us can agree it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not, we forget to reflect on the emotional reasons for homeownership. Whether it's a comforting view, a certain scent or a favorite chair, the feel-good connections to our own homes are typically more important to us than the financial ones. Here are some of the reasons why

1. Owning your home offers stability to start and raise a family

From the best neighborhoods to the top school districts, even those without children at the time of purchase may have this in the back of their minds as a major reason for choosing the location of the home they purchase.

2. There's no place like home

Owning your own home offers not only safety and security, but also a comfortable place where you can simply relax and kick-back after a long day. Sometimes, that's just what we need to feel re-charged and truly content.

3. You have more space for you and your family

Whether your family is expanding, an older family member is moving in, or you need to have a large backyard for your pets, you can take all this into consideration when buying your dream home, so the space truly works for you.

4. You have control over renovations, updates, and style

Looking to actually try one of those complicated wall treatments you saw on Pinterest? Tired of paying an additional pet deposit for your apartment building? Maybe you want to finally adopt that fur-baby puppy or kitten you've been hoping for. Who's to say you can't do all of these things in your own home?

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a move-up buyer who wants to start a new chapter in your life, our real estate professionals at Montague Miller & Co look forward to assisting you throughout your journey! https://www.montaguemiller.com/agent-roster.html 

First Published by Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS® and Virginia REALTORS®, May 1 2019

According to the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS®, Charlottesville-area home sales dropped during the first three months of 2019, but at the same time, home prices increased slightly and the number of homes on the market remained about the same. The graphic on the right represents the Percent change compares to 2018 1st Quarter statistics.

Economic Conditions

 • Notwithstanding a modest employment decline in the most recent months of data, the Charlottesville regional economy is stable and provides a steady bedrock for the local housing market, though there may be early signs of softening demand. 

• Mortgage interest rates remain at historically low levels. Potential homebuyers and sellers should expect rates to remain low, at least through the spring and into the summer. 

Housing Market Conditions 

• Sales declined or remained flat in most jurisdictions in the CAAR footprint in the 1st quarter compared to last year. The moderating sales activity began in the 4th quarter of 2018 after several years of growth at the region-level. 

• The regional inventory of active listings is not shrinking at the same rate as the past few years and has remained flat for several quarters, which could reflect a stabilization of the supply in the coming months. Similar trends are occuring in other housing markets in the state. 

• Homes are taking slightly longer to sell relative to last year in many parts of the CAAR footprint. 

• The median sales price in the region continues climb relative to last year, albeit more slowly than in prior quarters. Several local markets within the CAAR footprint have had declines in the median sales price over the past few quarters. 

View the full report published here:  CAAR

Congratulations to our 2019 1st Quarter Top Producers!

If a career in real estate appeals to you, now is a great time to look into its endless potential for personal and professional growth.

The market continues to improve and as it does, REALTORS® at Montague Miller & Co begin to hear from men and women who are considering real estate as their career and many of the best agents came to real estate as a second career.  Consider this -The National Association of REALTORS® reports that the average age of Brokers is 59.  It is obvious that the leadership of the industry is "greying". With that in mind, why not consider real estate as your primary career.  There is room at the top and this seems to be a good time to begin.

Barbara McMurry, Director of Education for Montague Miller Real Estate Academy, feels: "It is important when beginning in real estate to affiliate with a great teaching firm. A mentor and coach with experience in all markets will make a big difference to you."   

If you are considering a career in real estate, make the most of your real estate education by learning from the Best in the Business at Montague Miller Real Estate Academy where you will:

• Work with the Best of the Best
• Work where you are a valued colleague
• Work where the company provides everything you need to be successful

Montague Miller's Top Notch Instructors include Barbara McMurry, one of the best real estate instructors in the country and has been recognized by the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS® & the Virginia Association of REALTORS®.

Rives Bailey, Montague Miller's President & Managing Broker, and Pat Sury, Vice President of Relocation & Business Development, have been realtors for over 25 years and teach with Barbara as Pre-Licensure Instructors.

Beginning Tuesday May 8^th, Montague Miller & Co is offering Principles of Real Estate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-9:30 p.m. for 4 weeks in May.

Learn more about your Academy instructors and sign up here: http://www.montaguemiller.com/montague-miller-real-estate-academy

As real estate educators since 1948, our firm performs to the high standards of professional practice outlined in the REALTORs® Code of Ethics - the customer/client is first!

Photography provided by Tod Cohen Photography

The Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS® (CAAR) announced the induction of 57 REALTORS® into the 2017 class of the CAAR Professional Honor Society during a ceremony on Thursday, March 1st at the Glenmore Country Club.

This prestigious accolade has been a long-standing award program at the state level and was instituted by CAAR in 1996 to recognize standards of industry excellence. A total of 180 different REALTORS® have reached this pinnacle achievement in the local program's history. The 2017 class marks the 22nd year for six CAAR members and the first year for nine members.

The selection process for each year relies on fulfilling four core areas: association involvement, professional development, leadership and volunteer participation, and the success in either production of sales or ability as a managing Broker.

Montague Miller & Co congratulates and is proud to be represented by first year members Errin Kardos-Searcy and Josh White; 10 year members Brad Conner and Sasha Farmer; 16-19 year members Pat Crabtree; Pat Sury and Barbara McMurry; 20 year member Rives Bailey; and 20+ year members Anita Dunbar and Trish Owens.

Montague Miller & Co members pictured above are Anita Dunbar, Rives Bailey, Pat Sury, Pat Crabtree. Not pictured are Errin Kardos-Searcy, Josh White, Brad Conner, Trish Owens, Sasha Farmer, Barbara McMurry and Percy Montague.

This event was sponsored by: Stony Point Design/Build, LLC., CAAR Real Estate Weekly, SunTrust Mortgage, Stanley Martin Homes, Student Services & Moving Company, UVA Community Credit Union / Member Options, HMS Home Warranty, and George Mason Mortgage. Photography provided by Tod Cohen Photography

Each year Charlottesville and Albemarle County hosts the annual Virginia Festival of the Book, a program of Virginia Foundation for the Humanities (VFH). The Virginia Festival of the Book is an annual five-day celebration of books, reading, literacy, and literary culture. The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 from more than forty states for each of the past twelve years. Held in Charlottesville each March, the festival features readings, panels, and discussions, as well as a StoryFest day of children's literature. All programs are open to the public; apart from a few ticketed events, programs are free of charge.

Totaling more than 300 authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals, the list is comprised of speakers with new books that span all genres. While each year features a new and exciting list of authors, below includes just of few of the highlights from the 24th annual Virginia Festival of the Book, held March 21-25, 2018.

• Thi Bui, author of The Best We Could Do, one of The Washington Post's Ten Best Graphic Novels of 2017
• S. A. Chakraborty, author of The City of Brass, one of Amazon's Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of 2017
• Lyndsay Faye, author of Jane Steele, nominated for the 2017 Edgar Award for Best Novel
• Monica Hesse, author of American Fire: Love, Arson, and Life in a Vanishing Land, one of 100 Notable Books of 2017 from The New York Times
• Lisa Ko, author of The Leavers, the inaugural selection for the Carol Troxell Reader in the Festival and one of the Best Fiction of 2017 according to Los Angeles Times
• Carmen Maria Machado, author of Her Body and Other Parties: Stories, one of Chicago Review of Books' Best Fiction Books of 2017 and a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle 2017 John Leonard Prize
• Charles Mann, author of The Wizard and the Prophet: Two Remarkable Scientists and Their Dueling Visions to Shape Tomorrow's World, and a three-time National Magazine Award finalist
• David Barclay Moore, author of The Stars Beneath Our Feet, one of Amazon's Best Children's Books of 2017 and one of Time magazine's Top Ten Young Adult and Children's Books of 2017
• Alisha Rai, author of Hate to Want You: Forbidden Hearts, one of Amazon's Best Romance Books of 2017

The full list of featured speakers is available at VaBook.org where it is searchable by genre and name.  Plan ahead for next year's literary treat by visiting VaBook.org early in the year to learn about featured speakers to come!

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About VFH: The mission of Virginia Foundation for the Humanities (VFH) is to connect people and ideas to explore the human experience and inspire cultural engagement. VFH reaches an estimated annual audience of 23 million through Community Programs, Digital Initiatives, Scholarship, and the Virginia Center for the Book. For more information, visit VirginiaHumanities.org

This event is one of many festivals hosted in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia. To find more special events visit: www.virginiahumanities.org/events/

Video Courtesy of The Amherst County Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development of Amherst

Montague, Miller & Co REALTORS® invite you to experience one of Central Virginia's best kept secret, Amherst County!  Amherst County blends the best of rural and suburban living with thriving businesses, agriculture, local industries, the beautiful campus and educational opportunities at Sweet Briar College, quaint small towns and shopping areas, and wonderful residential neighborhoods and more!   www.montaguemiller.com/about-amherst-va   

Agents in our Montague Miller Amherst Office are always excited to share why they think Amherst is the Perfect slice of Virginia. Find an experienced agent who LIVES this area here: www.montaguemiller.com/amherst 

Plan to visit and find out for yourself!  

You may be at a good place in your life where your future plans include enjoying your last home, and "aging in place."

The new term, Aging-in-Place. refers to making plans for your future comfort and safety. Whether you plan to stay in your current home, looking to downsize, or move into a different community, below are a few essential universal elements to consider in your home to have it accessible, safe and stylish for your life ahead.

• Curbless showers 
• Bathroom benches 
• Handheld showers 
• Grab bars 
• Railings for steps 
• Door levers 
• Lever faucets
• Touchless faucets
• Pullouts
• Smart appliances
• Stair lights
• Elevators

So how do I begin? Start shopping around for ideas. Interior designers and architects are fun professionals to consult with and will help match these changes with your lifestyle.

If your plans entail remodeling projects such as moving walls or making doorways larger, getting the proper slope in a bathroom renovation or making sure grab bars are safely installed, you may want to enlist the services of an architect. An architect will listen and understand your concerns, design unique solutions based on your individual needs, and provide your contractors with specific guidelines.

If you are looking to move into a new home, seek the help of a REALTOR® and be clear about your expectations which may be a home that suits your long-term needs or one that can be successfully renovated for your specific aging in place needs.

Congratulations  to our Top 20 Award Winners on a successful quarter
for Real Estate Sales in Homes, Farm, Estates, and Residential Property. 

Jamie White Team • Sasha Farmer Team • Duckett-Corbin Team • Carol Costanzo Team • Anita Dunbar

Carter Montague • Paul McArtor • Joe Porterfield • Carl Broyles • Pam Whorley

Kyle Olson • Lynn Bowling • McCauley & Bailey Team • Melissa Garrison • Brad Conner

Pat Surey • Mike Gaffney • Boo Ingram • Robert Nigmund • Mike Davis

Congrats to Relocation Coordinator Joy Long and the rest of the Montague Miller team for their recent recognition by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. Keep up the good work!

The first quarter market report from the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORs has been published and the findings continue to show an ever improving real estate market in Central Virginia.

1st Quarter Sales Report 2014

This year may be all about the inventory, or lack of it.  Property for sale now is at a five year low.  The number of properties sold in the first quarter is almost identical to last year but we know that buyers are out in droves, looking for a home.  It is likely that a strong spring demand and low interest rates will continue to push the median prices up.  Note the trend of pricing across the region. The prices are the BEST THEY HAVE BEEN IN FOUR YEARS.

Best median Prices in FOUR YEARS

Want to see the entire REPORT?

Looking to move to the Charlottesville or Central Virginia area? Thinking of selling or buying a new home in Albemarle, Amherst, Greene, Louisa, Culpeper, Orange, or Madison County?

Check out CAAR's Second Quarter 2014 Market Report. This is a great resource to get a snapshot of the area's current market with data from the CAAR MLS system.

Read the full report

Central VA 2nd Qtr Real Estate Market Repor

The year end report for the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORs has been published and we find a continued, slow improvement in the number of sales and the median prices for those homes sold.  The sales in our area increased by 2% with a new median sales price of $270,000.  It was also noted that the prices have returned to their highest level since 2007.

Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORs Market Report

Our area seems to be similar to others around the nation-the number of houses available to buy has declined.  With the spring market beginning it looks like a really good time to bring your house or land on the market.    Call us at Montague Miller & Company for a free competitive market analysis.

Report Details 2014

The  Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORs has released their Market Report for the  1st Quarter of 2015 and the numbers are as expected.The median sales price for the region has increased from $244,250 in 2014 to $256,750 for this quarter.  I hope you will read the entire report but here is a quick summary.  Condo sales increased by 40%-a number which surprised me.  Pending sales have increased 18% over the same time frame last year.  The number of sales closed remained almost identical but there are many more properties set to close this year.

Look no further than Montague, Miller & Company Realtors.  Check out our latest award winners!

Montague Miller's website, www.montaguemiller.com, earned the certification after receiving high marks in a number of critical areas relating to website performance, including usability, design and content, interactivity, customer service and mobile responsiveness. The evaluation was conducted by Virtual Results, LLC, a real estate internet and social marketing firm selected by LeadingRE to review the websites of participating members.

Available only to firms affiliated with LeadingRE, the WQC is awarded based on specific measurements that are updated each year based on the latest in internet marketing strategies and evolving consuming preferences. To maintain the certification, companies must be re-certified every two years.

"We created the WQC to raise the bar in online marketing and recognize the companies that are demonstrating best practices with their websites," said Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® President/CEO Pam O'Connor. "The 136 companies that earned the WQC this year have not only mastered the technical components, but they have also shown superiority in providing highly local content, up-to-the-minute information on homes, and responsive customer service."

"Over 90% of all homebuyers utilize the Internet during their home search. Montague Miller feels it is essential that all the tools for a home sale, or purchase, be made available and that those tools are relevant and timely.

"The WQC certification process enables Montague Miller to have the most up-to-date and informative website in the industry," said Pat Sury, Vice President of Relocation & Business Development.

For more information about Montague Miller & Company, please visit www.montaguemiller.com.