Liz Local Richmond - March Edition

RICHMOND WINTER 2021 FROM THE TOP: Liz’s Crystal Ball & Market Insights DISCOVER: Where The Heck Is The Northern Neck? OUR FAVORITE PLACES: Unwind In The Northern Neck RVA NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT: Church Hill OUR RECOMMENDATIONS: Choosing A Rivah Home

Liz’s Crystal Ball for 2021 Stepping back and taking the long view of the local Buyers have flooded the market, rushing to real estate market, it has always been a roller coaster. capitalize on the lowest interest rates ever; many of Since the grand opening of Liz Moore & Associates our clients closed at 2.5% for a 30-year mortgage in in 2003, we have ridden the coaster with our arms the final quarter of 2020. waving in 2004 and 2005, to white knuckled, My prediction is that as the market normalizes gripping our seats during the housing crash of 2008 (which is directly tied to relief from the virus, to 2012. Perhaps no year to date has been crazier as vaccines become more widely available and than 2020. job numbers begin to stabilize), that we will see So, what will 2021 bring? increased listing inventory as sellers are more Demand remains strong, as our Spring season was comfortable with the idea of moving. Greater pushed into the Summer, and our Summer season availability of listings should calm the multiple offer into the Fall. I anticipate that continues into the frenzy and begin to impact a slowdown in sales new year. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun price increases. Accordingly, my advice to sellers is predicts sales will be up 7% nationally in 2021, and to list as early in the new year as possible, to beat I expect to see that, or even slightly more, here in the inevitable spring rush and capitalize on the Central Virginia. current lack of competition. With the lowest inventory on record for the The Fed has promised not to increase interest rates Greater Richmond market (hovering at around 1 dramatically, but industry insiders are anticipating month’s supply of inventory as of this writing), it’s that rates will gradually climb back into the high a great time to be a seller. Because there are more three’s over the coming 12 months. buyers in the market than sellers, many listings We would love to talk to you about your specific are enjoying multiple offers, which puts sellers in situation and whether taking advantage of current the driver’s seat from a negotiating standpoint. market opportunities makes sense for you. Many of Home price appreciation ended the year close to our clients have simply asked for a complimentary 6%, as compared to historical appreciation of 3.8% current market analysis about how much their average, and local sellers enjoyed nearly 100% home has appreciated and current market values. of their asking prices (and sometimes even over We can accomplish this virtually without the need asking!), with very favorable terms. to meet in person, if you prefer. We hope you and your loved ones have remained Liz Moore, safe and healthy. We also have a great appreciation President and deep gratitude to all of the front-line workers out there. We pray each day for their safety and for those who have sadly lost love ones. Call or email us anytime with questions or concerns about any market conditions whether you are considering buying, selling, or investing. We look forward to hearing from you.

Home Investment Check Up Time! Just as you review your investment portfolio with a trusted financial advisor, or your coverage with your insurance agent, you should meet with your REALTOR® to regularly review your home’s current value. This is your personal invitation for your annual real estate check up...give me a call and let’s get started! Check out one of our favorite spots! Contents Present this coupon to receive Liz’s Crystal Ball - 2 20% OFF AN Hello From Your EVENING STAY Liz Moore REALTOR® - 3 Must mention offer at reservation and book directly Where The Heck Is The through the Kilmarnock Inn to receive discount. Northern Neck? - 4 3rd party prices cannot be modified. Unwind In The (804) 435-0034 Northern Neck - 6 34 E Church Street in Kilmarnock Explore Church Hill - 8 kilmarnockinn.com Saving Money on Energy Costs - 9 Choosing A Rivah Home - 10 WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL 3

Where The Heck Is The Northern Neck? By Susan McFadden Located within an easy commute from major urban centers, Another facility, the Tappahannock-Essex County Airport, the Northern Neck is about two hours south of Washington, is less than 15 minutes from the Downing Bridge. Driving D.C., one and one-half hours east of Richmond, and an hour becomes a more recreational pastime once drivers turn off north of Williamsburg. the interstate onto rural, scenic routes heading to their final Northern Neck destination. The Northern Neck has often been referred to as “Virginia’s undiscovered gem.” It’s the northernmost of three peninsulas From Northern Virginia, take US-17 South and crossover (traditionally called “necks” in Virginia) on the Chesapeake the Downing Bridge from Essex County to Richmond Bay’s western shore. The other two are the Middle Peninsula County in the Northern Neck. Or travel the VA-3 East route and the Virginia Peninsula. that stretches the full length of the Neck. The region is comprised of four distinctive coastal counties - From Richmond, take I-64 East to the West Point 220 exit. Westmoreland, Richmond, Northumberland, and Lancaster Travel VA-33 East and crossover the Norris Bridge that spans - and is flanked by the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers. the Rappahannock River connecting Middlesex County to The rivers converge at the lower tip of the Northern Neck to Lancaster County in the Northern Neck. An alternate route meet the Chesapeake Bay. from Richmond is US-360 East and then crossing at the Downing Bridge. Two bridges span the Rappahannock River and provide access from the Middle Peninsula to the Northern Neck. Williamsburg is the closest urban center to the Northern Neck. The Norris Bridge connects Middlesex County to Lancaster Take I-64W to the West Point 227 exit. Continue on VA-33 County, and the Downing Bridge connects Essex County to East and crossover the Norris Bridge to Lancaster County. Richmond County. Want to know more? We can help. Go to LizMoore.com/ Travel by water, air, or car. Marinas dot the 1,100 miles of NorthernNeck or stop by our office at 276 N. Main Street shoreline, and many welcome transient boaters. Hummel in Kilmarnock. All our agents are Northern Neck locals Airport is a public-use facility located in Topping, just a short and would be happy to show you this incredible place we distance from the Norris Bridge. call home. 4 WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL

Map used courtesy of The Local Scoop, Kilmarnock, Virginia •FREDERICKSBURG • •Colonial Beach King George  James Monroe’s Birthplace •   Oak Grove George Washington Birthplace National Monument • • g NNature Preserve Westmoreland Stratford Hall Ingleside State Park Birthplace of Robert E. Lee Port Royal Voorhees Montross O R• gLeedstown Hague Winery WESTMORELAND T H gRappahannock County Museum ERiver Valley NationalWestmoreland  R gWildlife Refuge • N •ESSEX General’s Kinsale Smith Island •  N •   •Tappahannock Ridge Museum Tangier Island Vault Field Callao Potomac River Bay Menokin Warsaw RICHMOND Heathsville Smith Point Lighthouse Rice’s Hotel/ Richmond County Museum Bush Mill Stream Hughlett’s Tavern Smith Point Natural Area M  •Essex County Museum C h e s a p e akePreserve Reedville Fishermen’s Museum ECK NINSULA I D D L E P E • • •g•• •6•Mattaponi RiverTotuskey Park NORTHUMBERLAND Reedville LANCASTER Fleeton Dameron Marsh Lancaster Hickory Hollow Natural Area Preserve VA Historical Nature Trail Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve Belle Isle Society State Park Lancaster Town Centre Park Kilmarnock MIDDLESEX Historic Christ Kilmarnock Museum Church & Museum Dog & Oyster Vineyard Old Tobacco Warehouse and Irvington White Stone Visitor Center Urbanna Windmill Point Westland Beach Pamunkey River •Saluda Rappahannock River  •Deltaville RICHMOND gNew Kent • Middlesex  Gwynn’s Island Museum County Museum West Point GLOUCESTER York Beaverdam MATHEWS River Park  •Gloucester Walter Reed Gloucester County •Mathews Bethel Beach Birthplace Natural Area Preserve  Tompkins Museum  Cottage Wolf Trap Lighthouse  Rosewell Williams Wharf New Point Comfort Natural Area Preserve •WILLIAMSBURG Gloucester Point New Point Comfort Lighthouse 6Beach •Gloucester Virginia Institute of Marine Science Point James River WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL 5

Ready To Unwind, Slow Down, And Kick Back? Find It In The Northern Neck By Susan McFadden Many visitors first discovered the Northern Neck when they premiersailing.com moored their boat at one of the many marinas that inhabit the 1,100 miles of coastline or cruised into the marina at the Tides One of many notable perks for Tides Inn guests is the Premier Inn in Irvington, the region’s premier resort, which opened its Sailing School that operates from the resort during the doors in 1947. The 47-room resort was the brainchild of local summer months. residents E.A. Stephens and his wife, Ann. They purchased a 25-acre farm with extraordinary water views and, through a Premier Sailing’s owner Arabella Denvir and her husband Phil leap of faith, built an inn that welcomed families and couples founded the school in 1998 after a long and accomplished with room rates starting at $14 per night. sailing history that included years of cruising and racing in Ireland and England’s waters. They also founded the Malta Today, the Tides Inn is still the regional premier resort draw- Sailing School and Malta Young Sailors Club before bringing ing guests from across the world, the USA, and the their business model to the lower Northern Neck. Phil passed Mid-Atlantic. According to their website, the Tides Inn “… away in 2011, but Arabella and her seasonal staff of experienced continues to introduce new guest experiences, inviting visitors sailors continue to introduce children, couples, and families to create their own All-American traditions along the Chesa- to the joy of sailing through personalized instruction. Classes peake Bay. Under the management of Enchantment Group, are not limited to Tides Inn guests but are open to the public. refreshed public and meeting spaces were unveiled in 2019.” Premier Sailing also offers its Junior Sailing Program to non- members through the Rappahannock River Yacht Club. Although the nightly rates are considerably higher than in 1947, the accommodations and resort amenities rival those located in more well-known destinations. tidesinn.com 6 WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL

Captain John Smith was the first European explorer in the recreation such as sailing, kayaking, and cycling. Watermen early 17th-century to map the Northern Neck region and supply fresh oysters, crabs, and seasonal fish from the rivers provide a written account of his journeys. He described the and Bay to local restaurants. Roadside markets provide fresh region as “Heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a vegetables grown by area farmers and crafts created by local place for man’s habitation.” artisans. The Northern Neck of Virginia remained mostly undis- The Liz Moore & Associates Northern Neck office is covered until the 20th century when bridges were built located just blocks from the Kilmarnock Town Centre connecting the Middle Peninsula to the 80-mile tongue of Park at 276 North Main Street. Stop by our office or go to land bounded by the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers. LizMoore.com/NorthernNeck to learn how we can help The rivers converge at the Neck’s lower tip to meet the you find your river home. All our agents are Northern Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, Neck locals and would be happy to show you this incred- where the freshwater from the rivers mixes with the saltwa- ible place called the Northern Neck. ter of the Atlantic Ocean. All information contained in this article was accurate at Today, quaint small towns welcome weekend warriors and the time of publication. But please call ahead or check web- forever homeowners who often crave a more simple lifestyle sites to confirm open status. Schedules continue to be fluid where neighbors might also be a favorite florist or restau- during the health crisis. ranter. Wide-open spaces and tributaries invite outdoor For visitors looking for a more bed and breakfast lodging and kilmarnockva.com dining experience, the Kilmarnock Inn is the port of call. Located on a side street in the charming, walkable Town of Located within a short walking distance of the inn is the Kilmarnock, the inn reflects Virginia’s rich presidential histo- Kilmarnock Town Centre Park at 150 North Main Street. ry. Each of the Kilmarnock Inn’s eight guest cottages is named Encompassing nine acres, the thoughtfully-laid out park for a Virginia-born president, such as the Wilson House appeals to locals and visitors alike with a Pavilion, a central named for the 28th president Woodrow Wilson. A classic plaza, an outdoor amphitheater dubbed the Half Shell Stage Southern-style comfort foods menu is served in the Jefferson to honor the role oysters have played in the region’s economic Gathering Room, or guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the history, a town green where playfield and picnic areas are back deck during warm-weather months. The dining facilities located, and visitors can spread a blanket and picnic, the child- are open to the public. Kilmarnock Inn guests enjoy a compli- centric Waterworks where jets of water cool off young visitors, mentary full breakfast during each morning of their stay. a playground called River Play and Scottie’s Yard, a dog park with a view. An abundance of native plants and trees create an kilmarnockinn.com inviting and lush green space around those features. WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL 7

Looking to explore Richmond’s history? Start with Church Hill! By Brandy Centolanza Church Hill is Richmond’s oldest neighborhood. This area, housing, townhomes, and other ornate houses. The area also known at St. John’s Church Historic District, is steeped has seen its ups and downs through the years with the latest in history, having been the site where Patrick Henry gave revitalization in the early 2000s when a slew of new homes his famous “Give Me Liberty” speech in 1775. Today, the and businesses moved into the area. neighborhood of Church Hill boasts quaint restaurants, Nature lovers will appreciate Church Hill as it is close shops, and homes. to four parks, Patrick Henry, Libby Hill, Jefferson, and Chimborazo, and provides spectacular views of the James Church Hill overlooks the city in the East End. The area’s River. Chimborazo Park & Playground features the National name is derived from St. Episcopal Church, which was built Battlefield Park headquarters as well as a miniature version of in 1742 by William Byrd II, the founder of Richmond. the Statue of Liberty. The park also has two dog parks, ideal Church Hill is often used to describe the area of St. John’s for homeowners with pets. historic district as well as surrounding neighborhoods Meanwhile, Libby Hill Park is one of the three original parks including Chimborazo, Fairmount, Peter Paul, Union Hill, in Richmond’s park system and has great views of the city and Woodville. and river. Most homes in Church Hill predate the Civil War and Another famous landmark is the Church Hill Tunnel. The include architectural styles such as Greek Revival, Italianate, tunnel, first built in the 1870s as a Chesapeake and Ohio and Queen Anne. Church Hill’s streets are lined with row Railway Tunnel, is located 4,000 feet beneath the historic 8 WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL

Church Hill area. In October 1925, the tunnel collapsed on a train passing through, killing four men. Efforts to recover the train failed and the tunnel, which some believe to be haunted, was eventually sealed up for safety reasons. Traditionally, the Church Hill Irish Festival is held annually at Patrick Henry Park each St. Patrick’s Day to honor Irish heritage with a parade and Irish food staples such as fish and chips and Irish crafts, music, and other entertainment. In the Church Hill area, you will also find numerous vintage stores and boutiques, home décor shops, corner markets, coffee shops, and restaurants, including many farm-to-table options. Among the more popular eateries are The Hill Café, Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille, Alamo BBQ, and The Roosevelt. In 2015, Zagat named Church Hill as one of the top 10 Hot Food Neighborhoods Around the U.S. Find out where your home is costing you money and comfort. From Dominion Energy Did you know Dominion Energy offers a low-cost home energy assessment? You want your home to be a comfortable place for your family to spend time, but it doesn’t have to be a place that you spend all of your money. A home energy assessment can help identify areas where your energy bill could be reduced by taking steps to increase the efficiency of some of your home’s systems and appliances.The low-cost assessment – performed on your hot water heater, lighting, air ducts, and faucets – will give you access to a personalized report containing cost-effective options to help you reduce your energy usage. One of their pre-qualified contractors can perform both the assessment and the recommended improvements. You may even qualify for financial incentives that help to offset cost of the improvements. Potential program measures include: Direct Install Lighting Duct Sealing Duct Insulation Hot Water Appliances Cool Roof. Efficient Faucets and Aerators Heat Pump Tune-Up & Upgrade To find a contractor or for more information, visit https://domsavings.com/va/rhea/#find-a-contractor. WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL 9

Dreaming about a We are excited to announce that we’ve just opened a branch office in the Northern Neck. Just a little over an hour from Williamsburg, and yet worlds away. lizmoore.com/rivah ADVERTISEMENT 10 WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL

Choosing a Rivah Home Don’t Be Up A Creek Without The Right REALTOR® By Susan McFadden Two Feet Three to Five Feet Six Feet and Deeper Kayak or canoe depth water Shallow draft water will This water depth will generally accommodate accommodate motorized range is ideal for large recreational boats up to sailboats and motorized flat bottomed or self-propelled watercraft. 25 feet in length. recreational boats. It’s more important than ever to work with a REALTOR® Matching a property to the river lifestyle you want to lead is who knows the Bay, the rivers, and the tributaries. If buying crucial to your long term satisfaction with your new river home. an existing river home or purchasing a waterfront lot for building is on your 2021 must-do list, read this short article A REALTOR® from the Liz Moore & Associates team will first before starting your search. show you the best possible options for the lifestyle you want to lead. With over 1,100 miles of shoreline, the Northern Neck of Virginia is a huge draw for people who want to live on the Our REALTORS® are also knowledgeable about local water full-time or second home buyers within a two-hour building codes and the Chesapeake Bay Preservation commute of the Neck who are considering a weekend and Act regulations. They can recommend a bevy of choice vacation getaway. contractors in the region and suggest local contacts to help you navigate the building process. They also know the local Consider first the kind of lifestyle you want to lead before lenders who understand the challenges of building or buying purchasing a waterfront property. Are you looking forward an existing home in this rural, waterfront region. to mooring your powerboat or sailboat to a dock in your backyard? Or, are you more interested in kayaking the shallow Interest rates continue to be historically low. 2021 will be an waters of the creeks that flow throughout the Northern Neck? ideal time to find and purchase the river home you’ve always Or, are you just seeking a waterfront home with fantastic wanted. And, Liz Moore & Associates REALTORS® will water views, sand beach, and an inviting screened porch that’s help you every step of the way, from your initial search all perfect for kicking back or entertaining? the way through closing. Call us today or stop by our office. WINTER 2021 / LIZ LOCAL 11

lizmoore.com 14061 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA 23113 © COPYRIGHT LIZ MOORE AND ASSOCIATES. IF YOUR HOME IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REALTOR® PLEASE DISREGARD THIS POSTAL, AS IT IS NOT INTENDED TO SOLICIT ANOTHER AGENT’S LISTING. REASONS TO INVEST Diversify Your in Rental Property Portfolio Investment properties come with many benefits. Increased Wealth Eligible Tax Professional Management Deductions Earn Services Rental Rental Income Income Pays The Mortgage Contact our property management division for professional management services for your investment rental. Virginia Payne, Director of Property Management 804-251-0178