Brexit and US Mortgage Rates

The Effect of Brexit on Mortgage Rates in the United States

JS Realty Interest Rates brexitOn June 24, 2016, England voted to leave the European Union. This historic decision, referred to as “Brexit”, has caused a ripple effect here in the United States. It has driven interest rates down to their lowest mark in three years. Mortgage interest rates will fluctuate most directly due to the cost of mortgage backed securities. When mortgage bond prices go up, interest rate tend to fall and when mortgage bond prices drop, mortgage rates will rise. In addition to this correlation, the overall US economy will also influence mortgage rates.

GJS Realty Opposite directions brexitenerally speaking, when the economic indicators such as the stock market, inflation, and unemployment are positive, mortgage interest rates will rise. When the economic indicators suggest our economy is not prospering, rates will drop.

In December of last year, the Federal Reserve projected that it would raise interest rates up to four times in 2016. On June 15, 2016, Federal Reserve Chairperson, Janet Yellen decided NOT to raise rates. This was due to a very weak employment report in May.

Brexit has caused severe volatility in the global stock markets and has had a negative impact on the stock market here in the United States. No one knows what the long term impact of Brexit will be, but it is safe to say that the immediate impact of England’s decision to leave the European Union has directly led to lower interest rates.brexit

If you are considering buying a home, or if you currently have a mortgage and are considering a refinance, right now is a perfect time to get a mortgage loan evaluation from a licensed mortgage professional.

Not sure where to start? Click here to contact Senior Loan Officer Keith Harris or to get pre-qualified.

Keith Harris at Intercoastal Mortgage Company
NMLS ID # 838973
Company NMLS ID # 56323
(www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
Intercoastal Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender.

Step Sisters 2016 Ribbon Run

The Step Sisters – Not Your Average Breast Cancer Organization

Ribbon Run photographs are courtesy of Jessica Monte Photography

There’s no limit to the number of organizations out there right now who are trying to raise money to find a cure for Breast Cancer. And rightly so. According to the CDC Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women, no matter your race or ethnicity. About 220,000 women (and about 2,000 men) are diagnosed annually. But with much of the focus on finding a cure, who is there for the patient going through it? That’s where the Step Sisters come in.

They are a team of breast cancer survivors, mothers, sisters, daughters, brothers, sons and fathers who have all been touched in some way by breast cancer and want to “pay it forward” for those in need.JS Realty StepSisters logo2

The Step Sisters Mission: Improving the quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer by funding needed support services in Loudoun County and the surrounding community.

The Step Sisters have expanded their reach and currently serve breast cancer patients in Loudoun and Fairfax counties.  Services include: transportation, home cleaning, meals/fresh food delivery, childcare, dog walking and lawn care/snow removal. And their patients are extremely grateful for their help:step sisters

This past spring, the JS Realty Team was a sponsor for the Step Sisters’ 5K Ribbon Run in Brambleton, VA. We were also active participants!step sisters

When choosing a charity to support, we want to be sure we are making an impact locally – and not just financially. We want to be active in assisting an organization that uplifts and supports the community. Since we live, work, and play in Brambleton, the Step Sisters was an easy decision. And the Ribbon Run is always a fun event!step sisters ribbon run jsrealty4u

Almost our entire team (and a few family members!) showed up to the Ribbon Run event. Wearing matching gray capes with a fun logo on it, we walked, ran, photographed, and took video of the 5K and Kids Fun Run course that was set up around the Brambleton Town Center & trails.step sisters jsrealty4u superhero

The first one from our team to cross the finish line was Beth! Way to go!!
step sisters jsrealty4u

Beth was quickly followed by Scott, Jackie, Sarah, and the rest of the team.

The Step Sisters are always looking for new ways to meet the needs of breast cancer patients and continue to add new services. You can learn more about how to volunteer or join one of their fun events at StepSisters.org.

Manassas Townhouse For Sale

Beautiful 3 bedroom townhome For Sale in Manassas, Virginia

Pride of ownership shows in this immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 full and 2 half bath townhouse in Kessler Ridge Community. This home is located at 11326 Kessler Place in Manassas VA on a family friendly street.manassas Kessler for sale real estate

This beautiful townhome has wonderful curb appeal & extensively landscaped yard. Windows galore throughout the home provide lots of natural light. Close to shopping and restaurants – Bull Run Plaza is less than a mile away! Convenient to multiple commuter options, including Route 28 and I-66. Community amenities include pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, tot lots, walking trails, volleyball courts, community center and more!

MAIN LEVEL
3 level townhouse features a 1 car garage. The light filled Living Room features crown molding. There is a powder room on this level as well.manassas jsrealty4u for sale

Formal Dining Room with crown molding, designer light fixture and pass through to kitchen.manassas real estate for sale

Gorgeous kitchen features granite counters, a stainless steel refrigerator, built-in microwave, 2 pantries, crown molding.
manassas granite js realty

The breakfast area off the kitchen has crown molding and designer light fixture. Sliding Glass Doors lead to a large deck that is great for entertaining!manassas jsrealty4u

UPSTAIRS
Master Bedroom has vaulted ceiling, 2 skylights, dual closets and remote controlled ceiling fan. Attached Master Bathroom features vanity.manassas for sale master jsrealty4u

2 Additional Bedrooms features large closets and ceiling fans. There is a second full bath with vanity off the hallway that is easily accessed by both bedrooms.

LOWER LEVEL
Spacious Recreation Room has recessed lighting and plush carpeting. A separate Laundry/Utility room features updated Maytag washer and dryer. There is also a half bath with a vanity.manassas kessler for sale real estate

Sliding glass doors lead from the rec room to the expansive, fully fenced backyard with large brick patio.backyard manassas patio brick jsrealty4u

Contact Scott Koval at 703.625.3446 for a private showing of this beautiful townhome in Manassas, Virginia!

Dulles Farms Townhouse For Sale

3 level townhome in Dulles Farms Community of Aldie, VA For Sale

Pride of ownership shows in this immaculate 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom townhouse in the highly sought after Dulles Farms Community! Located on a family–friendly street at 42148 Sandown Park Terrace, this beautiful townhome has wonderful curb appeal!  Close to shopping, restaurants and major roadways and offers multiple commuter options.dulles farms aldie for sale

MAIN LEVEL
Windows galore provide lots of natural light throughout this gorgeous home. A spacious, formal Living Room has a ceiling fan and hardwood floors. A powder room with pedestal sink and designer light fixture is also located on this level.dulles farms aldie JSRealty4U

Gourmet kitchen features built-in microwave, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, center island with breakfast bar, pantry, and gas oven/range. The gorgeous kitchen also features granite counters, custom tile backsplash, and hardwood floors.dulles farms aldie for sale jsrealty4u

Dining Room has designer light fixture and hardwood floors.dulles farms jsrealty4u aldie for sale

Light filled Family Room showcases ceiling fan and hardwoods. Sliding glass doors lead from family room to large, trex deck.dulles farms aldie jsrealty4uUPSTAIRS
The Master Bedroom has a sitting area and includes recessed lighting, dual walk-in closets, and plush carpeting.dulles farms aldie jsrealty4u

Large Master Bathroom features an oversized vanity with dual sinks, recessed lighting, designer light fixture, and water closet. Beautiful 2+ person bathtub and separate walk-in shower.dulles farms aldie jsrealty4u

2 additional Bedrooms boast large closets, designer light fixtures, and plush carpeting. A second full bathroom has a granite vanity and ceramic tile.

LOWER LEVEL
Entrance to the home is located on the lower level and the Foyer has ceramic tile. There is a separate Laundry/Utility room with front loading, high efficiency washer and dryer. The spacious, walkout Rec Room features full windows, recessed lighting and plush carpeting. A gorgeous gas fireplace has marble surround, glass doors and a wood mantle. There is also a full bathroom with granite vanity, recessed lighting and ceramic tile.dulles farms aldie basement for sale

Lower level also walks out to a good sized, fully fenced backyard that backs to a common area.dulles farms aldie for sale

Check out our video for additional images and information. Contact us today at JSRealty4U.com or call Scott Koval at 703.625.3446 to schedule a private showing of this amazing home in Dulles Farms!

Stunning Home For Sale in Lorton

Stunning 3 level townhome For Sale in Lorton, Virginia

Nestled in the Overlook Pointe community in Lorton, Virginia, this stunning 3 bedroom townhouse is located at 9656 Dutchman Drive. Pride of ownership really shows in this immaculate townhome on a private, family-friendly street. Close to shopping, dining, major roadways including I-95, and commuter options like the Virginia Railway Express.

Overlook Pointe Community features include pool, tennis and basketball courts, tot lots and more!stunning jsrealty4u

The main level features large windows that let in lots of natural light. Brand new carpet was recently installed throughout the home. The living room features beautiful crown molding.jsrealty4u stunning for sale

The dining room features crown molding, chair rail, shadow boxes, and ceramic tile. stunning jsrealty4u

Gorgeous kitchen has new stainless steel appliances, a built-in microwave, granite counters, and ceramic tile. stunning for sale lorton jsrealty4u

Master bedroom boasts vaulted ceiling, large walk-in closet, and ceiling fan.stunning jsrealty4u

Bright Master bathroom has an oversized vanity with dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, skylight, and new flooring.stunning master bathroom

2 additional bedrooms feature ceiling fans and large closets. A 2nd full bath has a vanity and new flooring.

The spacious Rec Room has a separate laundry/utility room with new washer and dryer. There’s also a half-bath with a vanity and ceramic tile. stunning jsrealty4u

The expansive, landscaped backyard features a brick patio. this stunning home backs to trees and is situated in a peaceful, tranquil setting. stunning lorton townhouse jsrealty4u

Expert Realtor Scott Koval can be reached at 703-625-3446 to schedule a private tour of this beautiful townhome.

Gorgeous Aldie Townhome For Sale

Gorgeous 3 level home For Sale in the Braddock Corner community of Aldie, VA

30 miles west of Washington, DC lies Braddock Corner in the town of Aldie, Virginia. Recently completed in 2010, Braddock Corner offers residents 17 acres of open spaces, walking trails, tot lots, gazebo, ponds, picnic areas, and some of the most beautiful mountain views in the area.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

Located at 25532 Oak Medley Terrace, this gorgeous 3 level townhome features 3 bedrooms, 3 full, and 1 half bathrooms.

Main level boasts beautifully maintained cherry hardwood floors throughout. Foyer has a spacious coat closet, crown molding and chandelier.  Spacious, bright Living Room has crown molding and 3 large windows to allow for tons of natural light. The Dining Room features crown molding, shadow boxes, 3 columns, recessed lighting, and a pass-thru to the kitchen.Aldie townhouse for sale jsrealty4u

The large gourmet Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite counters and custom cherry cabinets. There is plenty of storage space and a generous island with a cook top and breakfast bar.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

Adorable Breakfast Nook has a designer light fixture and access to the large trex-style deck. Bright Family Room has a gas fireplace with a wood mantle. A powder room has a pedestal sink, recessed lighting & tile floors.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

Spacious Master Bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings, a double door entry, ceiling fan with light. There’s also a huge walk-in closet and a sitting area with a vanity & mirror.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

The large Master Bathroom features a double sink vanity, tile surround 2+person tub, custom tile walk-in shower with built-in seat, recessed & designer lighting, and windows.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

2nd & 3rd Bedrooms both feature vaulted ceilings, large closets and large windows. There is also a shared full bathroom and a hallway closet for additional storage.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

Spacious Recreation Room features a gas fire place with a wood mantle, recessed lighting, closet & access to the backyard. The rec room also has a full bathroom, laundry room with full-size washer & dryer, and access to the large 2-car garage.Aldie Townhome for Sale jsrealty4u

This beautiful townhome in Aldie, VA is available for private showings! Contact Expert Realtor Sarah King Taylor by calling 703-475-1003

Word of the Week: Commission

Breaking down Real Estate commission, and how the JS Realty Team differs

Commission is the method of compensation for agency services, which is generally determined by an agreed upon percentage of the selling price.commission

Did you know? Fees for services are set by the individual brokers and firms. It would actually be a violation of antitrust laws for multiple firms to agree upon or fix a commission rate.

In traditional home sales, the sellers typically pay the agent’s commission—but there are exceptions. Auctions, for instance, usually charge buyers an additional “premium”.

The listing agreement is a contract between the seller and the agent, and it clearly specifies the commission rate. It details the terms under which a the rate is paid and the total commission to be paid. Therefore, buyers cannot negotiate the commission on the sale of a home. A buyer can only negotiate the purchase price and terms of the sale. The buyer’s agent is typically paid by the seller, because the listing agent is sharing a percentage of the commission. Sharing this is called cooperating, or a co-op commission.

And don’t forget, real estate commission—along with most costs associated with buying and/or selling a home—can be tax deductible!

How the JS Realty Team @ Samson Properties is different

commissionThe JS Realty Team proudly offers Full Service Listings for 4.5% (total Real Estate commission)! Other local agents charge 5, 6, even 7% of the purchase price, which means the JS Realty Team could save you thousands of dollars. In addition to a 4.5% rate, you also receive our Full Service listing package at no extra cost!

Our Full Service listing package includes, but is not limited to:
-MLS Service
-Just Listed Postcard, Full Color Brochures
FREE Home Market Analysis
-Enhanced listings on Realtor.com, Trulia.com, Zillow.com & others
-Professional Photography
-Featured on JSRealty4U.com and Samson Properties Website
YouTube video & Social Media Posts—Facebook, Instagram, etc.
-Seasoned negotiators

We’re here for you! If you’d like to learn more about us or have any questions about the services we offer, please visit our website. You can also contact us at any time for additional information.

Gorgeous Townhouse For Sale

Gorgeous 3 level townhome For Sale in Leesburg Community

Close to Routes 7 & 15 and the Dulles Greenway, this gorgeous 3 bedroom townhome has tons of upgrades throughout and is located at 744 Hetzel Terrace SE in Leesburg, VA. Shopping, dining, and the incredible Leesburg Outlets are just a short drive away!

The split Foyer of this gorgeous home has hardwood floors, a designer light fixture and stairs that lead to the Family Room or Recreation Room. The Family Room boasts tons of recessed lighting and windows to allow for plenty of natural light to fill the room.jsrealty4u gorgeous

Beautifully tiled Kitchen features custom backsplash, pantry, breakfast bar, and plenty of cabinet & granite counter top space. gorgeous townhome jsrealty4u

Tile floor Dining Room has ceiling fan with light, ample room and a French door leading to a spacious deck.gorgeous jsrealty4u

There is also a tile floor Powder Room with single sink vanity, chair railing and designer light fixture.

Upstairs, the Spacious Master Bedroom has a designer ceiling fan, 2 large windows, and a nice walk-in closet.gorgeous jsrealty4u towhouse

The updated Master Bath features tile flooring, double sink vanity, spacious walk-in closet, tiled shower with river rock flooring and a built-in niche perfect for storing shampoo and soap.gorgeous townhouse leesburg jsrealty4u

In addition to the master, there are also 2 additional bright bedrooms. A 2nd full bath boasts tile floors, a single sink vanity, shower/tub combo and designer light fixture.

On the lower level, a large Recreation Room boasts beautiful hardwood flooring, designer light fixture and chair railing. There’s a nook that would be perfect for a desk or home office. A powder room and a laundry room are also located on this level. Enjoy easy access to the garage and walk out to the patio & fully fenced backyard.gorgeous townhome jsrealty4u

Check out our video slideshow that highlights the great features of this home. Contact Sarah King Taylor at 703-475-1003 when you’re ready to see this gorgeous home in person!

Custom Alexandria Home For Sale

Beautiful, custom, 5 bedroom home For Sale in Alexandria

Only 2 miles from the Kingstowne Towne Center, this gorgeous 1 level,
5 bedroom home is located at 5923 Westridge Court in Alexandria, VA. Situated on over half an acre, this custom built home is a commuter’s dream! Easily walk to the Van Dorn Street Metro Station, and just a short drive to I-395, I-495, Ronald Reagan National Airport, and the Franconia-Springfield & Huntington Metro Stations.alexandria kingstowneOne-of-a-kind home is loaded with upgrades and impressive features, such as:
-Hardi-plank (no maintenance) cement siding
-Hard wired smoke detectors throughout
-Brazilian cherry hardwood floors
-Oversized 2-car garage
-Tank-less water system
-Honeywell dual zone system, new gas/electric HVAC (2015)
-Expansion of the front & back of the house was done in 2008

Bright Foyer has a gorgeous designer front door, recessed lighting & a large walk-in closet with tons of lighting & built-in shelving. The huge Family Room offers a wood-burning fireplace that features a custom, floor-to-ceiling stone surround. Oversized sliding glass doors lead to the patio.alexandria jsrealty4uThe impressive gourmet Kitchen boasts plenty of counter top & cabinet space. Custom cabinets have under cabinet lighting. There’s also a breakfast bar and a custom backsplash. The center island is on wheels so you can move it you need additional entertainment space!alexandria jsrealty4uSeparate Dining Room has vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, ceiling fan with a light, and a sliding glass door that leads to the deck.alexandria for sale jsrealty4u

1st Master Bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, ceiling fan with light and built-in shelves. A spacious walk-in closet with custom modular closet system also features a full size washer & dryer! The sliding glass door that leads to the deck plus an additional oversized window give this bedroom an indoor/outdoor feeling while overlooking the backyard.alexandria jrealty4u
The impressive attached bathroom features granite floors, double sink vanity, designer light fixture and linen closet. The highlight of this room is the 701 ARIEL steam shower which offers steam shower, Jacuzzi tub, waterfall, body jet, radio, and so much more!alexandria ariel steam shower jsrealty4u

2nd spacious Master Bedroom offers ceiling fan with a light, wall to wall closets and room for a sitting area. Windows galore offer views of the beautiful backyard. Alexandria jsrealty4u real estate

The 2nd Master Bath features an oversized single sink vanity, designer light fixture and built-in shelving. There’s also a tall cabinet next to the vanity for additional storage and a custom tile walk-in shower.alexandria bathroom for sale jsrealty4u

3 additional bright, spacious bedrooms all have access to the 3rd full bathroom. A 2nd Laundry Room has a stackable washer & dryer with a pocket door. Mudroom off the Family Room & Garage features a utility closet, utility sink, shelving and a door leading to the patio and expansive backyard.alexandria

This impressive home in Alexandria is a must-see in person! To schedule a private showing, contact Sarah K. Taylor at 703-475-1003.

Word of the Week: Assessment

What is an assessment and how does it differ from an appraisal

Each week we try to help you to understand some of the expansive, and often confusing Real Estate jargon. Last week we talked about appraisals, and how they can often be confused with the Home Inspection. We also receive many questions from our clients about the difference between an appraisal and an Assessment. These terms are very similar, yet quite different.

An appraisal, we learned, is a detailed single property valuation performed by a licensed appraiser. Appraisals can be used for obtaining a mortgage loan, home equity loan, home sale or estate valuation.jsrealty4u property value assessmentAn Assessment, however, is a mass appraisal of property, that is usually conducted at the beginning of the year by local counties. They are based on the areas sales, which helps to determine the value for a large group of similar properties (like a neighborhood, for instance). This information is generally used to determine property tax amounts.Tax Rate Calc JS Realty assessment

As you can see, appraisals are more exact, since they tend to be performed to determine the market value of a specific property. Whereas the purpose of an assessment is to determine the value for a large number of similar properties.

Questions about the value of your home or the local real estate market in general? Drop us a line!