Virginia lawmakers passed a bill last month that allows first-time homebuyers to establish savings accounts for funds used solely for down payments or closing costs. Beginning July 1, Virginia first-time homebuyers will be able to contribute up to $50,000 to the savings accounts, with account earnings exempt from state taxes. “The bill establishes an individual income tax … [Read more...] about VA OKs Tax-Free Savings Accounts for 1st-Time Home Buyers
Home Inspection Part 5: Resolve Runs, Drips, and Other Plumbing Issues
An unscientific look at recent home inspections that we at D.C. Region Real Estate have observed reveals that a good number of plumbing issues—whether it's one of our listings or a home we're helping someone purchase—should be fixed long before an inspection even occurs. Oftentimes, they're small, inexpensive fixes that can save you a lot of time and effort when you're … [Read more...] about Home Inspection Part 5: Resolve Runs, Drips, and Other Plumbing Issues
Va. State Senate Gives Thumbs Up to HOA Fines
The Virginia Senate passed a bill Tuesday that would allow home owner associations in Virginia to collect fines for HOA rule violations. The bill still must pass the Virginia House, but if passed could affect anyone in the state who is part of an HOA. Here's an excerpt from from The Washington Post: A bill that would allow homeowner associations in Virginia to levy fines even … [Read more...] about Va. State Senate Gives Thumbs Up to HOA Fines
Home Inspection Part 4: HVAC is a Top Concern for Buyers and Sellers
For our fourth venture into home inspections, we continue our conversation with Mark Linebaugh, president of Homemark Inc., and will address the sometimes lesser-seen but often felt issues with heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. If you’re selling your home, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC systems serviced and cleaned. It’s a tremendously common area … [Read more...] about Home Inspection Part 4: HVAC is a Top Concern for Buyers and Sellers
Home Inspection Part 3: Electrifying Discoveries
Welcome to Part 3 in our series of helpful tips from D.C.-area home inspector and Homemark Inc. president Mark Linebaugh. In the first post, we addressed doing a pre-listing inspection. In Part 2, we tackled structural issues. This time, we’re talking electricity. Potential hazards surrounding electricity go beyond whether lights or electrical outlets work. Electrical … [Read more...] about Home Inspection Part 3: Electrifying Discoveries
