When planning renovations to your Reston home, it is a good idea to chat with your home insurance carrier to see how your coverage and rates may be affected. This may not be the first thing that you think of when tackling a home improvement project, but some renovations can decrease premiums. Others require updated coverage. Here is a look at a few projects that can affect home insurance.

Reston Real Estate Improvement Projects Affect Your Premium

The biggest project that can decrease your home insurance premium is putting a new roof on your Reston home. This may not be an exciting renovation, but choosing a high quality new roof can decrease your premium because it will hold up better to storm damage. Most other projects will increase your premiums. For instance, building a pool will require an increase in liability coverage. Adding an office for a home business will also increase the premium. Additional coverage will likely need to be added or a separate business insurance policy should be purchased. This is to make sure that specialized equipment, supplies and inventory, and clients are protected in your home.

A few other improvements to your Reston real estate will also require an increase in coverage. These include adding more square footage and upgrading kitchens and bathrooms. If you add more square footage, even if it is simply finishing the basement or utilizing an attic, the new space will need to be taken into account for insurance coverage. It is also important to update coverage after a major bathroom or kitchen renovation. If you spend $30,000 for new cabinets, granite countertops, new flooring, and new appliances, you want to make sure that these new items would be replaced if disaster struck. Your home insurance policy should match your home. Update the policy after any major renovation and it is also good to chat with your agent yearly to discuss coverage.

There are many options for temporary and inexpensive flooring for your Reston property. Whether you are renting and want to spruce up the space without negating your rental agreement, or are on a very tight budget, there is a good solution. A temporary flooring solution can be as simple as putting down a large area rug or carpet remnant, or as complicated as putting in laminate flooring. Do some research and look at pros and cons of each flooring type. Here are a few ideas. 

Peel and stick tiles and carpet tiles are good options for making a space look neat and tidy. They may not be as nice as permanent ceramic or porcelain tile, but these can be installed yourself and stay in place with the adhesive. Just keep in mind that the adhesive may leave behind a residue that would need to be cleaned up when the tiles are removed, so this may not be an ideal option for a Reston property that you are renting.

For a rental, laying a piece of sheet vinyl may be a better option. This material comes in a variety of styles and colors, even resembling hardwoods. Sheet vinyl can be a truly temporary solution, as it can be cut to size and then just weighed down along the edges or kept in place with adhesive tape.

More Permanent Flooring Choices for Reston Real Estate

Laminate, or vinyl plank flooring, is a more high end approach to temporary flooring. Click lock vinyl plank flooring creates a floating floor, looking very polished, but easy to remove. This is not only a great choice for a rental, but also for your Reston real estate. This flooring is durable and can create the illusion of hardwoods without the high price tag. It can be easily installed yourself. Keep in mind that vinyl flooring is more resistant to water damage than laminate.

There are many options when considering a new backsplash for your Reston real estate. Traditional tile has long been the norm, but peel-and-stick backsplashes are making a splash in this home improvement category. Peel-and-stick tile can be found in vinyl, metal, glass, and stone. This project can be done on your own, without needing to hire an expensive contractor. This can give your kitchen or bathroom an updated look without a huge price tag. Keep in mind that this is a viable option for a renter or for someone who plans to stay in the home for a while. However, some of the less expensive choices can look fake and some people consider peel-and-stick tile to be tacky. For these reasons, it’s generally not recommended for someone who plans to sell their Reston real estate soon. 

Peel-and-Stick Tile Is Quick and Easy to Install at Your Reston Home

Other reasons to consider a peel-and-stick backsplash is that there is no demolition needed, no dry time, and clean up is easy. This type of backsplash can also be removed, so it can be added to personalize a rental unit. If installed correctly and taken care of, this type of backsplash can last several years. It is nice because the colors and material can be easily changed to go with a new decorating style. There are also three dimensional options that can be grouted to give a more authentic look.

As with most projects, there are also downsides to choosing a peel-and-stick backsplash for your Reston home. It is not regarded as highly as traditional tile, especially when trying to sell your home. Therefore, it will not help resale value. If walls are not prepared properly or if your walls are not flush, the end result may not look great. The peel-and-stick tiles can also wear out quickly in areas of high moisture, and on occasion do damage the drywall when removing them. Do some research on the specific peel-and-stick tiles you are thinking of using and see if they could be the right choice for your space and specific project.

The question to go ahead and buy a Reston home in 2020 or wait until 2021 is looming in many people’s minds. The country is enduring a time of uncertainty and with that, a big decision like a home purchase may seem frightening. It is a tough question, and the answer is not the same for everyone. Each person’s individual situation and the market in the area in which they will be buying should be taken into account to make the best decision. There are many factors to think about.

Mortgage Rates on Reston Real Estate Are Low

The biggest question to ask before taking the plunge to purchase a Reston home is if your income and employment is stable. If you feel good about keeping your job and your current income remaining the same, then the time could be right. If you are uncertain about maintaining income and employment, it may be good to wait. Mortgage rates are very low right now. This means that a home could cost less in the long run if a low mortgage rate is locked in. If you have enough cash to pay for a home outright, this question is less important.

Other factors to think about are what home prices are doing in your specific market, if lots of homes are being pulled off the market, and how long you plan to stay in the home. A market that is less vulnerable to price dips is better for maintaining a home’s value. Look to see how property values have performed over the last few years. Also, a market where many homes are being pulled off means there will be more competition for fewer homes, resulting in higher prices. Lastly, the longer you plan to stay in the home, the better when purchasing during uncertain times. If you are looking to only stay for a few years, it may be better to rent for now.

Call our office so we can talk about your specific home buying or selling needs!

The purchase and sale of Reston property and properties across the nation went down during the normally busy spring months due to the coronavirus pandemic. As states were shut down, it was difficult for potential buyers to get out and see homes. Plus, the economic uncertainty kept many people waiting to see how their finances would pan out. Sellers were frightened of prices plunging, so pulled their listings to wait out this time of uncertainty. As states reopen, it is looking like this summer will actually be a very hot market.

Mortgage Rates Are Low for Reston Real Estate Buyers

Mortgage application numbers are on the rise, likely due to the very low interest rates. It is a great time to lock in a low rate. As people’s jobs are stabilizing, they are ready to move on with the Reston real estate buying process. It is also clear that real estate will continue to be a solid investment. It is a little early to declare that there has been a full recovery of the housing market, but there is a housing shortage. This has only gotten worse during the crisis, especially as sellers have pulled their properties waiting until they could make more money on the sale later.

This means that prices are likely to remain high. More buyers are coming back to the market than sellers, so there will be more people making offers on fewer properties. It is likely that the prices for Reston properties will go up through the summer, but it is hard to say what fall will bring. If the economy struggles due to a resurgence with the virus, prices could flatten or even fall toward the end of the year. However, it is unlikely that prices will take a serious plunge as they did in the Great Recession, as there is simply still too much demand..

Feel free to give our office a call so we can talk about your plans for buying or selling a home in Reston.

Spring cleaning your Reston real estate is important every year, but it is even more important this year to inhibit the spread of COVID-19. It may seem difficult to know where to start and what cleaning tasks would be the most beneficial. Here are a few tips to steer your spring cleaning plans in the right direction.

The first thing to do, is to get rid of clutter and get organized. It is harder to keep things in your Reston real estate clean when they are covered in clutter. Get all of your clothes in the hamper, in the closet, or in drawers, file the stacks of loose papers, put books back on the shelf, and get rid of items that you do not use anymore.

Deep Clean Your Reston Home with Disinfecting Cleaners

Once your home has been organized, it is time to deep clean. Do your research and be sure to select products that are EPA-registered disinfectants. Double check that they are made for the surfaces you wish to clean in your home. Clean the surfaces that are touched most frequently as often as possible. These include faucets, light and lamp switches, door knobs, cabinet knobs and handles, counters, remote controls, toilet handles, stair railings, and electronics. Don’t forget the steering wheel, lock buttons, radio, and console inside of your vehicle as well.

Cleaning frequently touched surfaces is key to stopping germs from ravaging your Reston home. Get in the habit of cleaning the most touched surfaces daily. It is also a good idea to take shoes off when entering the home every time. Who knows what might get on the bottom of your shoes when out in public. Keep it from being tracked all over the house by taking off your shoes upon arrival. It definitely takes planning and diligence to keep your home clean, but proper disinfection is one of the best ways to keep illness from spreading in your home.

Stone’s Cove Kitbar is open and ready to serve those living in a Herndon home. Choose to come to the restaurant for outdoor patio seating or take advantage of delivery and curbside pick up. Stone’s Cove will deliver for free anywhere within a five mile radius of the restaurant. There is a minimum order of $25 for free delivery to your Herndon real estate, otherwise there will be a $4.99 charge. Order online or call 703.434.3615. Stone’s Cove is located at 2403 Centreville Road in Herndon. Temporary hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Herndon Real Estate Owners Order Takeout

The full menu is available. Start off with an appetizer. Choose from such offerings as meatloaf cupcakes, baked crab dip, flatbread margherita, and filet of beef sliders. Soups and salads on the menu include cobb salad, caesar salad, apple, craisin, and goat cheese salad, prime beef chili, crab bisque, and soup of the day. There are also a variety of flatbreads available, tacos, sandwiches, and burgers. Available entrees include seared flat iron steak, lemon pepper chicken, Atlantic salmon, shrimp and grits, tequila glazed mahi mahi, and honey goat cheese chicken. Choose from a variety of tasty sides, including cheddar cheese grits, roasted vegetables, tater tots, horseradish mashed potatoes, coconut rice, and jumbo asparagus. Desserts, cocktails, beer, and wine are also available.

When the time comes, enjoy the unique atmosphere of the interior of this restaurant again Enjoy the interactive dining experience and watch your food being made right in front of you. For now, enjoy the delicious food on the patio or in the comfort of your Herndon home. Celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a date night, or just take the evening off from cooking and support this local restaurant. Find the full menu, more details, order online, and make a reservation for Stone’s Cove Kitbar. 

Check out Oak Spring Cluster homes and find a vibrant townhome community. The neighborhood is made up of several attached townhouse units. They vary in size from two to three bedrooms and three to four bathrooms. Each one is two stories tall, with a basement. The main level has a bright, open floor plan. The units were built in 1986 and 1987. Many have been updated with stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood floors. Upstairs, the bedrooms are comfortable and spacious. The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closets. Many Oak Spring Cluster homes also have a finished basement, with room for guests and for families to hang out together. In addition, they have decks on both the ground floor and the upper story.

Reston Real Estate Shoppers Check out Oak Spring Cluster

The neighborhood has a fun tot lot, where families with young kids can meet and let the kids get their wiggles out. Community events are common. Residents get together for potlucks when the weather is nice.

Oak Spring Cluster is a great Reston real estate location. It borders Lake Fairfax Park, which has a skatepark, playing fields, and of course, the lake itself. Many visitors enjoy paddling around in a rented canoe or kayak. Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole is located in the park, too. The Tall Oaks Pool is less than half a mile away. Hidden Creek Country Club is just across Wiehle Road. It’s a golfer’s paradise. Members also enjoy tennis, swimming, and the fitness center.

For shopping, Reston Town Center is two miles away. There are lots of great eateries; clothing, accessories, shoes, and electronics shops; salons; and fitness centers. Reston Town Center hosts events like concerts and a farmers market. The Silver Line transport station is just over a mile to the south of Oak Spring Cluster. Dulles Access Road also connects Reston commuters to the capitol.

As restaurants are being allowed to once again welcome diners with certain restrictions, consider enjoying a meal away from your Reston home. The Capital Burger is open for dining on the patio, curbside to go, as well as delivery. It is easy to order online and enjoy a delicious meal at your Reston home. It can also be a welcome treat to get out of the house and enjoy lunch or dinner on the patio. The Capital Burger is located at Reston Town Center on the corner of Market Street and Presidents Street. Hours of operation are from noon to 8 p.m. daily.

Reston Real Estate Owners Order Burgers and Cocktails

The menu boasts a wide variety of luxe burgers, tasty hand-cut fries, boozy shakes, and a vast wine list. Start out with smoked gouda cheese fries, hand-cut french fries, parmesan truffle fries, lobster and crab cakes, eggs and bacon, kung pao brussels sprouts, pan-fried calamari, red chili-glazed chicken wings, classic tomato soup, or lobster bisque. Available salads include seared salmon salad or seared sirloin steak salad and available sandwiches include southern-style fried chicken sandwich, lobster and crab cake burger, grand cru grilled cheese sandwich, and the Capital Grille’s ribeye steak sandwich.

Signature burgers include the Capital Burger, bacon cheeseburger, classic cheeseburger, roasted wild mushroom and swiss burger, vegetarian burger, and the blue cheese and truffle burger. Desserts and children’s menu items can be found here as well. Be sure to check out the extensive list of cocktails and spiked shakes. Available spiked shakes include the stoli doli with vodka, vanilla ice cream, and candied pineapple, the hot chocolate with Patrón XO Cafe, chile liqueur, chocolate ice cream, and five spice, and bourbon caramel with bourbon, vanilla ice cream, and smoked sea salt. Everyone living in Reston real estate is invited to come try Capital Burger. Check out all the details and view the full menu online. 

As the coronavirus crisis rumbles on, more Reston property owners may need to consider mortgage forbearance. We’re going to break down exactly what mortgage forbearance means and how it can help you.

First things first, what is mortgage forbearance? It simply means that the bank is not requiring a borrower to pay their monthly mortgage for a period of time.

Congress passed the CARES Act in response to the pandemic. According to the Act, borrowers with government-backed mortgages can get forbearance for up to a year. While privately-owned mortgages are not included in the CARES Act, most banks are offering forbearance. Be sure to check with your lender about your options if your income has taken a hit. Don’t just stop paying, though. Having a forbearance agreement will not hurt your credit, but defaulting will.

Discuss the Terms of Forbearance for Your Reston Real Estate

When you work out the terms of forbearance, there are several important questions to ask. Is this a total deferral of payment or will you be expected to pay the interest or other fees? Is the loan going to mature on a different date? How will the forborn amount be repaid?

There are several options when it comes to repayment. One is to repay in a lump sum. That may not be possible for many borrowers.

Another option is to repay the forborn amount over a period of six months. That would mean that once the forbearance period ends, Reston property owners would pay their regular mortgage payment, plus one-sixth of the amount that was forborn.

A third repayment method is to simply extend the term of the loan by the period of forbearance. Say you went into forbearance when there were 12 years left on the term of your mortgage. You were in forbearance for seven months. That would mean that when you started paying again, your loan would be 12 years, seven months.

Forbearance can be a really good tool to help homeowners stay in their homes during the crisis. Talk to your lender about what options are available to you.