Mr Williamsburg, Revolutionary ideas on real estate!Hampton Roads Virginia

Busch Gardens Announces new roller coaster

Posted on March 21, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Roller coaster features multiple launch elements, loop-the-loop inversion

– Busch Gardens’ newest thrill attraction, Tempesto™, debuts April 25 at Busch Gardens. Park President Carl Lum announced the launch coaster’s name, its key features and its opening date during a special pass member preview day held March 21.

Tempesto’s three launch experiences propel riders forward and backward through the ride’s station house, speeding past waiting guests at more than 60 miles per hour. Riders then climb 154 feet in the air for Tempesto’s signature loop-the-loop inversion.

“Guests waiting to experience Tempesto will certainly feel its power as the coaster train races past them at highway speeds,” said Larry Giles, Busch Gardens’ vice president of engineering.

Work on Tempesto began in fall 2014. The construction team bolted the final piece of track in place in late January. The construction phase will come to an end in the next few weeks and the the park’s operations team will begin ride testing.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the expression on our guests’ faces when they watch Tempesto in action,” said Park President Carl Lum. “The speed of this launch coaster, combined with its compact footprint will make for an exhilarating ride.”

Now through March 31, the Williamsburg parks are offering a great deal to enjoy Tempesto over and over with a 2-Park Fun Card. For just $75 – the same price as a one-day ticket to Busch Gardens – guests receive unlimited admission to both Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA through Sept. 7.The offer represents a 25 percent savings off the regular price of a 2-Park Fun Card. For more information, visitwww.buschgardens.com/va.

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Williamsburg ranked among the 50 best college towns in which to live in forever

Posted on March 19, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

College Ranker ranked two Virginia towns on its list of 50 Best College Towns to Live in Forever.” Williamsburg VA was 43rd on a list and Charlottesville was #40.

College Ranker’s list highlights 50 college towns around the US that can provide a permanent home for college students after they have completed their collegiate experience. Every city and town in America with a college or university was considered and weighed, and these 50 were chosen based on metrics and statistics involving strength of local schools, vibrancy of the local economy, and family friendliness.

The full ranking can be viewed here:http://www.collegeranker.com/ranking/best-college-towns/

Mackenzi Flannery, the article’s author, had this to say: "Hundreds of cities and towns hope to retain their students after graduation and incorporate their newly acquired skills into the local economy. It’s a competitive environment for attracting college graduates, and these 50 college towns have well positioned themselves to retain their local college students for a lifetime."

College towns like Williamsburg VA are great for more than just the time while you are in school. Many of them have a thriving economy and culture that make them perfect for a long-term commitment to the area. After you are done with your time on campus what factors become more important? Things like community, neighborhoods, schools, these important aspects become pivotal when choosing a place to reside.

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Exquisite Dream home now for sale in Stonehouse, Toano VA

Posted on March 13, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Big and Beautiful in Stonehouse

When E and M decided to build their dream home, they knew it had to be large enough to accommodate their elderly parents and have a layout that offered privacy, luxury, and all the amenities for entertaining. They also knew it had to be in Stonehouse, a Toano VA neighborhood located about 15 miles from Colonial Williamsburg.

“We love this neighborhood. The people are friendly, it’s quiet, and there’s 50% green space here,” said E , noting he and M had lived in Stonehouse for years before building their home on Mill Pond Run. “When we decided to build a larger home so that our parents could live with us, I walked every lot available in Stonehouse to find the perfect property.” They finally found just the right lot: .88 acres with 3 acres of green space behind it, and a sloping yard to accommodate a walk-out basement.

Luxury and Practicality. The 7 bedroom, 7.5-bath brick Cape Cod home that E and M built in 2006 is a combination of practical design and luxurious features. It is three-levels, with master bedroom suites on each floor to allow plenty of privacy for the couple and their parents. The house, which is handicap accessible, has separate heat/AC zones on each level. It also includes amenities for a healthy lifestyle, such as a full exercise room with multiple types of equipment, and an indoor lap pool with fit jets that allow swimming against the current.

For recreation, the lower level of the 7,795-square-foot home includes a 6-seat media room, a den and full kitchenette, and a game room with slot machines, a billiards table, and table shuffleboard. Outside, there is a screened porch as well as several patio areas for relaxing around a stone fireplace, doing a little outdoor cooking, and dining al fresco at a table for 10 under a covered patio. The lushly landscaped yard—which includes a waterfall with colored lights — provides plenty of privacy.

Touches of whimsy. The home’s style is largely traditional, with 9- and 10-foot ceilings, crown molding, wainscoting and ceiling medallions, pocket doors, and traditional window treatments. But E and M also included some whimsical, personal touches. For example, a trip to Venice inspired the design of the upper level master bathroom, which includes columns, tiled arches, and a striking chandelier with colored glass. “I wanted a lot of colors in the house, but my mother didn’t,” E explained. “Instead, I decided to do mainly textures and patterns—such as pebble tiles in the shower—and get my colors though other items such as the chandelier.”

E took a hands-on approach when he painted the ceiling in the media room to look like the sky. “We have side lights in the room for when you aren’t watching the movie, and up lights that shine on the sky painting when the movie is on,” E noted.

Bring on the cooks. The gourmet kitchen was designed for a cook, and both E and M have skills. “We both like to cook and do grilling and traditional dinner cooking,” E noted. Not so traditional are the dog treats that they make for their twin Schnauzers, Maggie and McDuff, as well as the local humane society. The kitchen includes an island with seating as well as a big table with upholstered chairs. “It’s easy to entertain there, and it’s as comfortable as the dining room,” said E.

Living Smart. The house is wired so the couple can control lights, TVs, outdoor cameras and other features with a swipe on the iPhones. “I personally don’t know all the technology, but I just love the convenience,” E said.

A beautiful day in the neighborhood. It’s easy to see why E and M were set on staying in the Stonehouse neighborhood. The community’s amenities include an award-winning golf course with its own clubhouse that offers Friday night dinners and Sunday brunches. There is a separate Residents Center that includes a pool, playground, exercise room, and full kitchen. There are tennis courts, soccer fields, picnic areas, and a 47-acre lake. “We like to take our kayak out on the lake,” E noted. “And, someone stocked the lake with fish, so we often see people fishing there.”

The neighborhood has a community garden that E once used, but he now gardens on his own property. The community, which is socially active with various clubs, a swim team, and arts and fitness programs, is “a neighborhood where everyone walks” E said. “We often see our neighbors on the bike paths.”

Now that their parents are no longer with them, E and M don’t need such a large home, and have decided to downsize. “I chose John Womeldorf to help sell the house after I found his name all over the Internet.” E said, laughing. “So far, he has been terrific. He’s brought a lot of ideas to the table for selling our home.”

Why the stories? Because these aren’t just houses, they’re homes.

Mr. Williamsburg knows that when you’re looking for a new place, you’re searching for more than just four walls plus amenities, you’re looking for that welcoming refuge we call home. That’s why we go beyond the standard “4 bedrooms, 3 baths on large lot” statistics, to share how others have lived in this house, to reveal the home’s unique personality, to help you decide whether this is a place where your family could thrive.

Likewise, we realize that you’re seeking not simply a development within a particular zip code, but also an opportunity to become part of a community. That’s why we share our sellers’ experiences as members of that neighborhood.

We trust these stories will assist you in finding your way home.

Want to tell your home’s story? Contact John “Mr. Williamsburg” Womeldorf at (757) 254-8136 or John@MrWilliamsburg.com and we’ll get you started.

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Wayne Harbin Builder named builder of the year by Southern Living.

Posted on March 6, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Williamsburg/Yorktown based Homebuilder, WAYNE HARBIN BUILDER, INC. has been named Custom Builder Member of the Year by the Southern Living Custom Builder Program and will be featured in the June 2015 issue of the magazine.

“Harbin Builder is a family run business which consists of Wayne Harbin and sons Doug Harbin and Brad Harbin who now run the daily operation of the business. They represent the best our Program has to offer,” says Kristen Bryan, Associate Marketing Director, Southern Living. “Their tremendous ability as a builder and their sincere desire to serve their clients well have definitely contributed to their success and set them apart in this profession.”

The Southern Living Custom Builder Program is an invitation-only network of nearly 100 builders across the country. Each member is hand-selected for their outstanding reputation, quality of design and construction, integrity, and stability in the locations they represent.

A member of the Custom Builder Program since 2002, Harbin Builder earned the 2015 Builder Member of the Year award for its successful presentation of their Southern Living Showcase Home “Harrison Place” in Ford’s Colony, Williamsburg, Va. They welcomed 1,300 ticketed visitors to the Showcase Home over 3 weekends last fall. The home was marketed by Liz Moore and Associates and Interior Designer was Christine Vaughan Estep of Jackson Thomas Interiors. Harbin Builder is a custom design build firm that strives to create homes which are beautiful, well built, energy efficient, and suit the lifestyle of the buyer. By working with architects, designers, and interior designers, Harbin Builder offers its clients a multitude of resources to ensure homes of the highest caliber are achieved.

The award was presented during the Southern Living Builder Conference held February 22 – 23 at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel in Nashville, TN.

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Happenings in Williamsburg March 2015

Posted on March 2, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

March 1 – 8
PechaKucha Night Mar 7, 7 – 9 pm PechaKucha Nights are a fun evening of creative sharing. Friends from the community are invited to share their stories, passion, talent in a fast and fun format.	Yorktowns Cabin Fever Concert Series Mar 5, 7 pm Wipe the winter blues away with a free concert in the Freight Shed at Riverwalk Landing in historic Yorktown. Local musicians engage and interact with the audience during this unique experience.
Berkeley Homeschool Month March, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm daily During the month of March, Berkeley will offer a special rate to homeschooled students and their families. Enjoy a guided house tour and learn 18th century life on a plantation.	19th Annual Williamsburg Film Festival Holiday Inn Patriot Mar 4 – 7, 10 am – 11 pm The 19th Annual Williamsburg Film Festival celebrates the Golden Age of Hollywood with vintage films, memorabilia dealers, and guest stars from past films and television.
Williamsburg Choral Guild Voices Divine & Sublime Mar 8, 4 pm A program that spans four centuries of choral music, with piano, organ and woodwind quintet accompaniment and two vocal soloists. Conductors: Jay BeVille and Garry Sloan.	Next Generations Wine Dinner Mar 5, 6:30 – 9 pm Whether your status is Taken, Available or Complicated, youll enjoy tasting, learning about and incorporating some new wines into your social network!
FA Film Showing of Verdi’s Opera ‘La Traviata’ Mar 6, 5 – 8 pm Presented by Opera in Williamsburg, Colonial Italian-American Organization and New Town Art Gallery. This is a film of the live performance by Opera in Williamsburg which took place at the Kimball Theatre on April 23rd, 2013.	The Hard Road Trio Mar 7, 7:30 pm Original Southwestern blend of Americana and Bluegrass music from the wide-open spaces of New Mexico. Perfect three-part harmonies, spartan arrangements and awesome mandolin playing are hallmarks of this trio.
Auntie Ms American Cottage: Art Workshops -Wet Felted Flower Class with Artist Barb Risucci Mar 7, 9 am – 12 pm Join Artist Barb Risucci in this interesting workshop that covers the basics of wet felting and sculpting wet felt into a beautiful three-dimensional flower.	Behind Closed Drawers Mondays through Mar 30, 2 – 3 pm Drop in to get a close look at Textiles of the Early South, one of the museums newest exhibitions. Then, peer into the textile study drawers and examine additional clothing and needlework from Colonial Williamsburgs collections.
C.A. Swanson Hornsby Jr. Memorial at Fords Colony Mar 7 & 8 Junior golf tournament for boys & girls that are High School & Middle School age golfers. Tournament is run by the College Prep Golf Tour.
*Women’s History Month at Colonial Williamsburg:*
Remember the Ladies Sundays through Mar 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm Meet with ladies of Williamsburg as they discuss what the promise of Independence and the coming war means to them.	Wild, Weird, Wonderful Women Wed through Mar 25, 10:30 – 11:15 am Discover and discuss strange and interesting objects associated with women and learn how and why they became part of Colonial Williamsburgs collections.
An Uncommon Soldier March 4, 12 – 1 pm This program explores the experience of women in the ranks and on the battlefield.
March 9 – 15
VSO Haydns Sinfonia Concertante Mar 12, 8 pm Four stars of the VSO stage join forces to perform Haydns charming Sinfonia Concertante, a work that allows each of them to display their virtuosity as musicians.	Williamsburg Players presents The 39 STEPS Mar 12 – 28, See website for times Inspired by Hitchcocks classic tale, this romantic thriller is a fast-paced ride through the signature world of the Master of Suspense.
Shamrock the Burg Mar 14, 6 – 10 pm Get out your GREEN and cheer on SPRING! At the Williamsburg Community Building. Featuring live music by Glasgow Kiss, Guinness Draught and corned beef and cabbage.	Abstractive Landscapes Painting Workshop Mar 14, 10 am – 4 pm Bring a landscape photo of your own and painting materials, including a variety of brushes, at least one canvas and acrylic paints.
Shamrocks and Shenanigans at Water Street Grille Mar 14, 11 am – 10 pm Celebrate St. Patricks Day with Water Street Grille. Enjoy Irish themed specials, games and live music throughout the day. Call 757.369.5644 for more info.	Symphonique: Swing into Spring Mar 15, 5:30 – 10 pm Annual Black Tie Preferred Gala Benefit for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra at Two Rivers Country Club in Governors Land. Contact: 757.419.8815
Stitching Together a National Identity Mar 15 – 17 Explore regional variations in American textiles of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries and discover the forces that molded them.	Virginia Living Museum presents: Star Party/Laser Light Shows Mar 14, begins at sunset Free sky observing begins at sunset. Enjoy music accompanied by dazzling laser light effects in three planetarium shows.
Renaissance Wine Dinner at Giuseppes Italian Restaurant Mar 15, 5 pm Its A Tribute to the times of Da Vinci! In honor of the works of Leonardo Da Vinci, we will celebrate with Italian foods enjoyed during the Renaissance.	Frogs! A Chorus of Colors Mar 14 – Sep 7 Explore TOAD-ally cool creatures and get eyeball to eyeball with live frogs from around the world! View more than 70 live frogs from across the globe, housed in detailed habitats with rock ledges, live plants and waterfalls.
Gesture: Abstract Expressionists Mar 9, 7:30 pm Sarah Eckhardt will discuss the wide range of artists techniques in abstract expressionism through iconic paintings in the VMFA collection.	To Be Seen as an American Mar 11, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Meet three black women who didnt accept societys limits on what they could accomplish. See website for details.
*Women’s History Month at Colonial Williamsburg:*
Remember the Ladies Sundays through Mar 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm Meet with ladies of Williamsburg as they discuss what the promise of Independence and the coming war means to them.	Wild, Weird, Wonderful Women Wed through Mar 25, 10:30 – 11:15 am Discover and discuss strange and interesting objects associated with women and learn how and why they became part of Colonial Williamsburgs collections.
An Uncommon Soldier March 11 & 14, 12 – 1 pm This program explores the experience of women in the ranks and on the battlefield.
March 16 – 22
Military Through the Ages at Jamestown Settlement Mar 21 – 22, 9 am – 5 pm Hundreds of re-enactors present centuries of military history in one weekend. Re-enactors, depicting soldiers from 64 A.D. through modern times, demonstrate a variety of weapons and military tactics, field communication and medical treatment.	Williamsburg Players Childrens Theatre presents Happily Ever After Mar 21, 11 am This show contains the most hilarious renditions of some of the best from the Grimm Brothers iconic works. In this adventure, the engaging performers bring to life Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, Rumplestiltskin and The Elves and the Shoemaker.
What is a Family? Mar 18, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Learn about the legal and social challenges slaves and free blacks in colonial Virginia face as they strive to keep family together. At the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg.	Senior Champions Celebration Mar 19, 5:30 – 7:30 pm Join us for an evening of art, music, food and fun! Featuring art from the Innovative Senior Champions Program and art by featured artist of the New Town Art Gallery.
Death from the Skies Mar 16, 7 pm Asteroid impacts! Cometary debris! Extinction level events! These are the topics covered in this science-based but fun look at giant impacts from cosmic objects.	Oxen: Source of Power Mar 18 – Jun 10, 11 am – 12 pm Oxen played an important role in the lives of 18th-century Virginians. They provided the power to pull plows and move heavy loads.
Open Mic night at Water Street Grille Mar 17, 6 – 9 pm Enjoy your evenings with open mic night at the Water Street Grille. Call 757.369.5644 for more information.
*Women’s History Month at Colonial Williamsburg:*
Remember the Ladies Sundays through Mar 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm Meet with ladies of Williamsburg as they discuss what the promise of Independence and the coming war means to them.	Wild, Weird, Wonderful Women Wed through Mar 25, 10:30 – 11:15 am Discover and discuss strange and interesting objects associated with women and learn how and why they became part of Colonial Williamsburgs collections.
An Uncommon Soldier March 18, 12 – 1 pm This program explores the experience of women in the ranks and on the battlefield.
March 23 – 29
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Opens for the Season! March 27, 10 am Busch Gardens opens for the 2015 season on March 27 and offers fun for the whole family with thrilling roller coasters, world-class dining and shopping options and kid-friendly attractions.	Williamsburg Home Show Mar 28 – 29, see website for times This event affords homeowners the convenience of comparative shopping 100 local companies showcasing the latest products and services in remodeling, decorating and landscapingall in one convenient location.
Beer Dinner and Steal the Pint Night at Water Street Grille Mar 26, 6:30 – 9 pm Join us for a fabulous dinner topped off with brews from Hardywood Park Brewing Company. Steal the Pint Night featuring the Hardywood Park Brewing Co. Buy the beer and steal the glass	March Wine Dinner at Riverwalk Restaurant Mar 27, 6:30 – 9 pm Join us for one or all of our international wine dinners. This months dinner features wines from South Africa. $. Call 757.875.1522 or visit Riverwalk Restaurant for more information.
Art in the Garden: Adult Plein Air Painting and Sketching Mar 28, – 11:30 am Bring your chair, an easel, a sketchpad, or a nature journal and get to know the seasons! Artist Linda Miller will kick off each session with a botany overview for artists.	Cornhole and Party benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project Mar 28, 1:30 – 10:30 pm The Parrotheads of the Philinsula (The Parrothead Club of Williamsburg) annual fundraiser to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and Guitars for Vets.
To Be Seen as an American Mar 25, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Meet three black women who didnt accept societys limits on what they could accomplish. Lydia rose from slave to entrepreneur; Katie Marie was educated but lacked resources; Clara Byrd Baker fought for equal rights in the 20th century.	Lecture The Nabis Painters- Post Impressionists and Modernism Mar 23, 7:30 pm Jan Ledbetter will present the Nabis who exerted a major influence on the art produced in France during the late 19th century.
Oyster Roast at Water Street Grille Mar 29, 12 – 4 pm Join us for our great Oyster Roast! All you can eat: raw, roasted or steamed. Purchase your tickets in advance and save.	Watercolor Workshop with Robin Poteet Mar 28 – 30, see website for times Special 3-day Workshop. Each day begins with a demo and discussion. Topics include (1) Landscape, (2) Architecture with Figures, (3) Portrait.
*Women’s History Month at Colonial Williamsburg:*
An Uncommon Soldier March 25 & 28, 12 – 1 pm This program explores the experience of women in the ranks and on the battlefield.	Wild, Weird, Wonderful Women Wed through Mar 25, 10:30 – 11:15 am Discover and discuss strange and interesting objects associated with women and learn how and why they became part of Colonial Williamsburgs collections.
March 30 – 31
The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Masterworks Concert #4 Transitions to Jazz Mar 30 – 31, 8 pm The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Masterworks Concert #4, Transitions to Jazz, featuring works by Bernstein, Schubert and Kurt Weill.	NASA Science: Looking Outward, Inward, Homeward Mar 31, 6:30 pm NASA science pushes the boundaries of our knowledge about Earth, our Solar System and the universe. Learn about it in this talk by Dr. Ellen Stofan, principal advisor on NASAs science programs and science-related strategic planning and investments.

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New section of Marywood Subdivision in Williamsburg VA is opening soon

Posted on February 27, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Bulldozers are hard at work on the new section of Marywood in Williamsburg VA. Located at the end of Oxford Rd off Jamestown Road the new section will contain 27 1/3 acre home-sites ( see the site-plan below)

Home sales will start soon and four single family detached home designs will be offered ranging in size from from 1,951 to 2,821 sq. ft. Options will include finished basements. Pricing will be announced soon.

Community amenities include a playing field, tot lot, picnic pavilion with grill, walking trails, and sidewalks. Home owners can also join the adjacent Kingswood Pool home of the Kingswood Klams swim team.

Distances to area destinations

4 miles to Colonial Williamsburg

17 miles to Fort Eustis

8 miles to Camp Peary

9 Miles to Cheatham Annex

18 Miles to Yorktown Training Center USCG

1 mile to Route 199

19 miles to Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport

Stay tuned for updates or send an email to John@MrWilliamsburg.com for updates on this or any other new construction communities in Williamsburg VA

Search all homes for sale in Williamsburg/ Yorktown/ New Kent/ Poquoson/ and all of Hampton Roads here

This post was authored by local resident and REALTOR, John Womeldorf. John is known around town as Mr. Williamsburg, for both his extensive knowledge of the Williamsburg/ Hampton Roads area and his expertise in the local real estate market.

I can help you access all the information you will need about choosing a neighborhood and buying a home in New Kent, Gloucester, Newport News, Hampton, York County, Smithfield, Williamsburg, Poquoson or the greater Hampton Roads area, including area information on schools, local government, shopping, activities for the children and more! Whether you have made a decision to relocate, retire or are just considering a move to Williamsburg or Hampton Roads VA, let me help make your transition or PCS to the area a smooth and enjoyable one!

You can search homes for sale , active adult communities, 55+ communities, condos and townhomes ,foreclosures/ REO, land, building lots, commercial property in Williamsburg , Yorktown, New Kent, Gloucester, Poquoson as well as the surrounding areas of Hampton Roads, Virginia at my website

You can reach me by phone at 757-254-8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com

I look forward to serving your real estate needs!

Best,

John

Directions/ Map to Marywood-New Section-Williamsburg VA

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Destination Recreation Expo Sat Feb 21, 2015

Posted on February 19, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Your one-stop-shop for everything James City County Parks and Recreation has to offer! Discover your parks and facilities, learn about all the classes and programs offered throughout the year and be one of the first to register for summer camps! Informational booths, interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities are just a few great features of this event. We’ll keep your children engaged while you gather information about summer camp opportunities, sports, outdoor, aquatic programs, special events, parks and facilities, REC Connect, inclusion and therapeutic programs and activities offered through our affiliate organizations. Raffles and discounts for camps, classes and facilities given on the day of event! All ages welcome.

Saturday, Feb. 21: Destination Recreation Expo, Free, 9 a.m.-noon at the James City County Recreation Center

5301 Longhill Rd.
Williamsburg, VA 23188
757-259-5353

More info here

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Yorktown VA announces events for 2015

Posted on February 13, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Looking for new and exciting events to enjoy with your family and friends this year? Yorktown VA announces its main event line-up for 2015.

Listed below are some of the events and festivals in Yorktown for the coming year. Among the special events returning this year are Yorktown Market Days, Pirates Invade Yorktown, Blues, Brews & BBQ, Art at the River, Shagging on the Riverwalk Concert Series, Military Band Concert Series, Virginia Symphony Concert, Yorktown Art Stroll, Yorktown Day, Rhythms on the Riverwalk Concert Series, Yorktown Wine Festival, and the full Christmas event line-up, including the annual Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade. New events this year include the Sister Cities French Market and Lafayette’s Hermione Voyage 2015 with Yorktown being the first port of call in the United States. Up to date events calendars can be viewed and downloaded at www.visityorktown.org

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Wine, Chocolate, New Construction

Posted on February 12, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Saturday, February 14, 1-4pm At Liz Moore and Associates, HGTV is our Jerry Maguire and Tom Cruise has got nothing on the Scott Brothers. Really, is there anything more romantic than glittering new appliances and the smell of freshly cut lumber? And so, we have partnered with our most loved builders (you had us at hello!) in Ford’s Colony to host this special event, and we cordially invite you to come along. On Saturday Feb 14 from 1-4pm tour Tour seven fabulous new homes in Fords Colony, Williamsburg VA, see the latest in building innovations, and oh yes, sample wine compliments of the Wine Seller and a selection of chocolates. Grab that special someone and be prepared to fall head over heels! Each home will feature a different wine to sample and chocolate. Yummmm. Homes prices range from $435k to $975k. Visit all of the homes and receive a coupon good for 10% off your next wine purchase at The Wine Seller in Monticello Marketplace. Oh and if you want to meet Mr Williamsburg, I will be at 158 Blackheath serving wine and chocolate. Please come and see me.. Print the brochure with addresses here

Click here for map/ directions

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Kids play all Spring and Summer with a Free 2-Park Preschool Pass

Posted on February 2, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

IT’S GOOD TO BE A KID AT BUSCH GARDENS®
AND WATER COUNTRY USA®

WILLIAMSBURG (February 2, 2015) – Taking young children to Busch Gardens® and
Water Country USA® is more affordable than ever with a free 2-Park Preschool Pass. This limited-time, online-only offer, lets kids ages 3 to 5 enjoy free unlimited admission to the Williamsburg theme parks through Sept. 7.
Busch Gardens offers more than 50 KIDsiderate® attractions, including Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™ and Land of the Dragons®. Kid-sized roller coasters like Grover’s Alpine Express at Busch Gardens and Water Country USA’s Kritter Korral™ are among the can’t miss attractions waiting for little ones to enjoy.
And for a limited time, the Williamsburg parks are offering a great deal on a 2015
2-Park Fun Card. For just $75, a savings of 25 percent off the regular price of a 2-Park Fun Card, guests receive unlimited admission to both Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA through Sept. 7.
For more information and to register for the free, 2-Park Preschool Pass, visit http://www.buschgardens.com/bgwpreschoolpass before May 31. Proof of the child’s age is required at the time the Preschool Pass is redeemed and must be redeemed at either park by May 31, 2015. Examples of valid identification are an original certified birth certificate or travel passport. Children ages 2 and younger receive complimentary admission and do not need to register.

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New guidebook printed by Colonial Williamsburg

Posted on January 22, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg has published its first fully revised official guidebook since 1985.

At 256 pages, “Colonial Williamsburg: the Official Guide” is the first to focus on what happened in Williamsburg and why it mattered – then and now. For onsite help, prices, programming and directions, Colonial Williamsburg’s Explorer app, available by free download from the Apple App or Google Play stores, provides current information the way today’s travelers have come to expect.

“We wanted our new guidebook to delve into the Revolutionary history behind the people, buildings and trades in the Historic Area,” said Bill White, the Royce R. and Kathryn M. Baker vice president of productions, publications and learning ventures for Colonial Williamsburg. “The Revolution sparked on the streets of Williamsburg changed the world. This is the book to consult before and after visiting to remember that this story – Colonial Williamsburg’s story – is the story of every modern citizen devoted to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence.”

The book features a comprehensive history of Williamsburg during the Revolution, site-by-site and architectural histories, information on historic trades, profiles of Revolutionary figures, famous and not-so-famous, and a sampling of works from the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. Also included is everything guests need to plan their visit, including information on hotels, taverns and restaurants, recreation and shopping. The guidebook has stunning new photographs, illustrations and maps and places Williamsburg in the context of its location between Yorktown and Jamestown. Additional information about the guidebook is available on Colonial Williamsburg’s “Making History” blog at http://bit.ly/MHGuideReview.

The new guidebook was printed in the United States and is available for $19.95 at WILLIAMSBURG Booksellers at the Regional Visitor Center, Everything WILLIAMSBURG in Merchants Square, at Colonial Williamsburg’s official hotel gift shops, online at www.williamsburgmarketplace.com or by calling 800-446-9240.

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Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand at the Kimball 1/23/2015

Posted on January 21, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Here in Williamsburg VA we just don’t see the variety of touring music groups that typically play the larger cities.

Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand had to invent their own genre in order to play the kind of music they want: PostHeeHawFunkadelicHipHop-NewGrass. If you come to hear Ryan Shupe this Friday at The Kimball Theater you will hear some country, some bluegrass, some rock and some whole lot more. Its hard to categorize them as any one genre.

Composed of Shupe, Craig Miner, Roger Archibald, Ryan Tilby and Nate Smeding, the group has been performing together for 14 years. "RubberBand is the perfect name," notes the description on their website. "The group is known for its ability to stretch out musically in all directions, pinging back and forth with a joyful spontaneity most bands could barely imagine let alone achieve."

They have always been more of a show band than a radio band, says Shupe. "Our fans come to our shows to have a good time. They are less concerned about whether they’ve heard our hits on the radio."

Their sound was "born out of necessity," Shupe says. "When we first started out, nobody had heard of us, so we looked for songs that would catch people’s attention. We do songs that you have to listen to the lyrics to pick up the nuances of humor."

There have been radio hits; a single called "Dream Big," from an album released by Capitol Records. It came close to Billboard’s Top 20 .

All the band members grew up in musical families. Shupe is the fifth-generation violin player in his family; Archibald’s mother played the accordion; Miner’s father played the bass. They all started performing before the age of 10. "Collectively, we have a combined 121 years of experience," says Miner. "That’s a lot of rocking." But they can’t think of anything else they’d rather do. "It’s an addiction," says Archibald.

Having fun, making music, connecting with fans, that’s what it’s all about for Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand.

Ticket info here

January 23, 2015

7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Kimball Theatre Williamsburg VA

Filed under: Concerts, Entertainment, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Top selling Neighborhoods in Williamsburg VA. 2014

Posted on January 15, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Its always interesting to look back to see the top selling neighborhoods in Williamsburg VA. The areas covered in the report below this includes the City of Williamsburg, James City County and Upper York County. The numbers are from the Williamsburg Area Assoc of Realtors MLS. There could be some sales ( new construction, for sale by owners) that don’t show up in this report.

Ranking	Subdivision	# Listings Sold
1	Fords Colony	110
2	Kingsmill	102
3	New Town	51
4	Colonial Heritage	44
5	Powhatan Secondary	30
6	Braemar Creek	28
7	White Hall	27
8	Governors Land	25
9	Seasons Trace	24
10	Stonehouse	21
11	Villages of Westminster	20
12	Greensprings West	19
13	The Settlement at Powhatan Creek	19
14	Pointe @ Jamestown	17
15	Queens Lake	17
16	LaFontaine	16
17	Creekside Landing	14
18	Brandon Woods	13
19	Chickahominy Haven	13
20	Holly Hills	13
21	The Mews	13
22	Wellington	13
23	Monticello Woods	12
24	Scotts Pond	12
25	Skipwith Farms	12
26	Chisel Run	11
27	Longhill Station	11
28	Settlers Mill	11
29	Villages of Powhatan	11
30	Windsor Forest	10
31	James Terrace	9
32	Liberty Crossing	9
33	Longhill Gate	9
34	Mirror Lake Estate	9
35	Powhatan Crossing	9
36	The Midlands	9
37	Williamsburg Bluffs	9
38	Berkeleys Green	8
39	Claiborne	8
40	Fairways Villas	8
41	Springhill	8
42	Stonehouse Glen	8
43	Carver Gardens	7
44	Michelle Point	7
45	The Cottages at Stone Haven	7
46	Vineyard Height	7
47	Williamsburg Commons	7
48	Fenwick Hills	6
49	Kristiansand	6
50	Queenswood	6
51	Riverview Plantation	6
52	St. Georges Hun	6
53	Sterling Springs	6
54	The Oaks at Fenton Mill	6
55	Westgate	6
56	Williamsburg Village	6
57	Adams Hunt	5
58	Canterbury Hill	5
59	Ewell Hall	5
60	Greensprings Plantation	5
61	Grove	5
62	Indigo Park	5
63	Jamestown Hundred	5
64	Patriot Condominium	5
65	The Oaks	5
66	Wyndham Plantation	5
67	York Terrace	5
68	Brandywyne	4
69	Chancos Grant	4
70	Cypress Point	4
71	Fernbrook	4
72	First Colony	4
73	Fox Ridge	4
74	Governor’s Grove	4
75	Heritage Landing	4

Psst.I’m a real estate agent.

You can reach me by phone at 757-254-8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com

I look forward to serving your real estate needs!

Best,

John

Filed under: James City County Williamsburg VA Neighborhoods, Real Estate Statistics, Williamsburg Neighborhoods, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Top 11 home sales of 2014 in Williamsburg VA

Posted on January 13, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

This time of year it’s always interesting to look back and review the most expensive homes sold in the Williamsburg VA area.

In 2014 there were 11 single family homes which sold for $1,000,000 or more in the Williamsburg area. ( note I am including nearby Charles City) A slight increase from the same period a year before where nine homes sold for over a million dollars

While multi-million dollar price tags create oohs and aahs, it’s nothing more than a price tag until it’s sold. Four out of the top ten most expensive home sales in 2014 were in the Kingsmill Community. The average discount from list price on the 11 homes was 10% from list price, ( although that doesn’t count data from homes that are relisted so the real number is below that. The average sale price per square foot for the top ten list was $361 per square foot. Unlike the Washington DC area where 266 homes sold for $5 million or more last year. Our median selling price for the top 10 home sales was $1.250,000. Aside from the $3.4 million home sale the other homes ranged in price from $1 million to $1.8 million.

In 2014 the highest dollar transaction for a home sale in the Williamsburg VA area was $3.4 million dollars for a waterfront estate located on the James River in Charles City County.

By neighborhood Kingsmill was the leader on the list with four of the top 11 transactions. Fords Colony, Governors Land and Riverview Plantation each had one on the list.

Back to #1 on the list, initially listed at $5.4 million the spectacular 146 acre waterfront retreat on the James River included 1.5 miles of riverfront. The 5,000 square foot , 4 bedroom, 5 bath home offered water views from all of it’s rooms. Outdoor features included a pool, dock, recreation pavilion & walking trails . An aerial photo is below…

Tied for second place on the list were homes in Kingsmill and Fords Colony. The 8000 square foot home at 324 Dogleg was the personal home of Dick and Dorothea Ford the developers of Fords Colony. Where most of the lots in Fords Colony are half an acre in size this home sat on almost five acres with views of 4 holes of golf and water. Originally listed for for $2,395,000 the home sold for $1,800,000 after 284 days on the market. This lot and home were truly one of a kind.

Tied for #2 at $1.8 million was this 8800 square foot home in Kingsmill’s Sandy Fort Neighborhood. Sited on a rolling private one+ acre lot it overlooks a scenic easement that backed to Carter Grove Country Road.

#3 on the list with a sales price of $1,670,000 was an historic property in Charles City. Burlington Plantation was built in 1818

After 1859 the property passed to John Mumford Gregory, a member of the
Virginia House of Delegates and Governor of Virginia for a short time during the civil
war. The property included 260 acres land on Mapsico Creek, Outbuildings included a smokehouse, ice house four car garage, caretakers cottage and more.

#4 on the list was this 7000 square foot home in the Brownings Grant section of Kingsmill. Built in 2008 by Joel Sheppard . The home sold for $1,3000,000 after being listed for $4.499.000

#5 on the list with a sales price of $1.250.000 was this waterfront home in Charles City County just across the Rt five bridge on John Tyler Hgwy. If you look to the left when you are crossing the bridge you will see the home.

The home sits at the mouth of the Chickahominy River and enjoys amazing sunrise and sunset on the James River.

#6 on the list at a selling price of $1,150,000 was another waterfront home. This one located in the Riverview Plantation neighborhood on the York River. The home was built in 2008 replacing the sellers previous home.

Watch for the remainder of the list later this week..

Mapping the top 11 homes sales in 2014

1.	19101 Sandy Point Rd , Charles City VA	2.	120 Andrew Lindsey , Williamsburg VA Kingsmill
3.	324 Dogleg Dr , Williamsburg VA Fords Colony	4.	205 Harrison Ave , Williamsburg VA
5.	1608 Harbor Rd , Williamsburg VA Gov Land	6.	207 Rivers Edge , Williamsburg VA Kingsmill
7.	141 Riverview Plantation Dr , Williamsburg VA Riverview Plantation	8.	16520 Chickahominy Bluff Rd , Williamsburg VA
9.	109 Greens Way , Williamsburg VA Kingsmill	10.	13501 John Tyler Hwy Hwy , Charles City VA
11.	309 Rivers Edge , Williamsburg VA Kingsmill

See more detail on the top 11 home sales here

Like what you are reading ? Want to receive updates by email in the future ? Sign up here

psst … I’m a Realtor! Thanks for stopping by my website. I would love to help you find your dream home and community in the Hampton Roads or Williamsburg area or to sell your existing home. This post was authored by local resident and REALTOR, John Womeldorf. John is known around town as Mr. Williamsburg, for both his extensive knowledge of Hampton Roads and the historic triangle, and his expertise in the local real estate market. His websites,WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com and Mr Williamsburg.com were created as a resource for folks who are exploring a move to Williamsburg, VA , Hampton Roads VA and the surrounding areas of the Virginia Peninsula

You can reach John by email John@MrWilliamsburg.com or phone @ 757-254-8136

Filed under: real estate, Real Estate Statistics, williamsburg va | Tagged: top home sales in Williamsburg VA 2014 | Leave a comment »

Keep the excitement of the New Year going at the Winter Blues Jazz Fest in Williamsburg VA

Posted on January 11, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Chef David Everett and Steve Rose came together to line up an incredible four-day festival from Thursday January 15th to Sunday January 18th 2015
The Winter Blues Jazz Fest will celebrate great food and drinks, great people, and most importantly great music!
The Trellis Restaurant, Blue Talon Bistro and D.O.G Street Pub are excited to be upfront and center during the festival weekend.
Friday night will be a blast in Merchant Square, with The Trellis Restaurant serving drinks and fancy street food, including Sheppard’s Pie and Fish Cakes under the big tent.

Saturday night your favorite bartenders Mel and Stephanie will be serving The Trellis Restaurant’s signature Kentucky Apple and Whiskey Sour cocktails during the Mixology and Music event at the Williamsburg Lodge, and on Sunday a ticket to the Jazz Brunch at The Trellis Restaurant includes a two-hour live performance by the Butterbean Jazz Trio, a special brunch menu and a delicious champagne cocktail.
You can see the line up of all the musicians, get more information about each event and buy tickets by visiting the Winter Blues Jazz Fest

Filed under: 365 Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia, Concerts, Entertainment, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Williamsburg Restaurant Week 2015

Posted on January 10, 2015 by mrwilliamsburg

Would you like to try some of Williamsburg’s best restaurants at reduced prices ?

Restaurant Week 2015 in Williamsburg will be the week of January 18-24, 2015.

I love this promotion in that it gives us a chance to go to our favorite restaurants without killing my wallet.

You can enjoy a two course lunch menu for $10.11. For dinner, there will be three-course menus for $20.10 or $30.10. Tax, alcohol and gratuity not included.

This event is hosted by the Williamsburg Restaurant Association

Reservations are suggested.

Berret’s Seafood Restaurant ~ L/D $30.15
Blue Talon ~ L/D $30.15
Chili’s Grill & Bar ~ D $20.15
The Cove ~ D $20.15
The Gabriel Archer Tavern ~ $L $10.15
LeYaca French Restaurant ~ D $30.15
Nawab ~ D $20.15
Opus 9 Steakhouse ~ L/D $30.15
Prime 46 forty ~ D $30.15
Riverwalk Restaurant ~ L/D $20.15
Sal’s by Victor ~ L/D $20.15
Second Street An American Bistro ~ L/D $20.15
Terrace Room Williamsburg Inn ~ D $30.15
Traditions Williamsburg Lodge ~ L/D $20.15

Although Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association is holding its 2015 Restaurant Week Jan. 18 – 24, Colonial Williamsburg is making its special menu available for much longer.

Looking for a yummy lunch? Traditions at the Williamsburg Lodge has you covered. They are serving up an amazing two-course meal for just $10.15! The best part? It’s available through March!

Chef Justin Addison and his Traditions team have created a comforting lunch sure to warm you inside and out during these bitter cold months—complete with a hot vegetable bisque alongside a ham and cheese sandwich with tomato on toasted bread. You also get a salad packed with feta cheese, pickled onions, and apples. Click here for the menu.

How about dinner? There are two options for you depending on your mood. First up is dinner at Traditions at the Williamsburg Lodge. Enjoy a three-course dinner for just $20.15. That includes dessert! Click here for the menu.

Over at the Terrace Room at the Williamsburg Inn, you can mix and match to your liking with our $30 three-course special. Click here for the menu.
The dinners are only available through the end of January, so be sure to take full advantage!

Filed under: Deals/Specials/Coupons, Places to eat Williamsburg Va, Restaurants, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Mortgage Rates Hit New Lows for 2014

Posted on December 18, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

Freddie Mac reported today that fixed mortgage rates have fallen to new lows for this year as 10-year Treasury yields closed at their lowest level since May 2013.

30-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 3.80 percent with an average 0.6 point for the week ending December 18, 2014, down from last week when it averaged 3.93 percent. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 4.47 percent.
15-year mortgages this week averaged 3.09 percent with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 3.20 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 3.52 percent.

Visit Our Preferred Financial Partners

Competitive rates and loan products. Attentive, responsive customer service. That´s the pledge from lenders we have hand selected to earn ‘preferred’ status to offer mortgage services to Liz Moore & Associates´ buyers.

Filed under: williamsburg va | Tagged: mortgage rates williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Garden Club of Virginia Hosts Symposium 2015 in Williamsburg

Posted on December 15, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

The Garden Club of Virginia is throwing a fabulous party and you’re invited! Symposium 2015 is Monday, Feb. 2-Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2014 at the Williamsburg Lodge in Colonial Williamsburg. This three-day celebration of Virginia includes short courses, excursions and lectures. Topics include gardening, floral design, landscape design, interior design, Virginia history and conservation successes.

Ticket holders can go behind-the-scenes at Colonial Williamsburg art museums and visit a LEED-certified building at The College of William and Mary. Guided garden walks, and cooking and tasting demonstrations will take place at Taste Studio at Colonial Williamsburg.

A Virginia fashion design industry runway show will feature top commonwealth designers at an evening of fashion, food and meet-the-designer fun. At the “Photos and Flowers Cocktail Party,” Scenic Virginia photo contest-winning images will be displayed along with flower arrangements inspired by the photographs. Landscape and interior design expert James Farmer will work with the Colonial Williamsburg products team to create tablescapes for porch living.

Symposium 2015 Williamsburg’s grand finale is Snipped! — an iron-man flower arranging competition by noted American flower arrangers:

• Michael Grim, co-owner of The Bridgehampton Florist and floral consultant for Ina Garten’s Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.

• Sybil Sylvester, owner of Wildflower Designs and photo stylist for Southern Accents and Southern Living.

• James Farmer, landscape and interior design consultant; author whose books include A Time to Plant, A Time to Cook and Porch Living; and editor-at-large for Southern Living

Live music from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s will be provided by the Smith Wade Band.

Flower arrangements will be judged by Flower Magazine Editor Margot Shaw, Colonial Williamsburg floral design Director Clark Taggart, Richmond floral guru David Pippin and Frank Robinson, GCV honorary member and president and CEO of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Symposium 2015 attendees will also enjoy VIP shopping opportunities in Merchants Square, the Symposium 2015 Boutique and the SCARPA designer shoe trailer, as well as lunches and cocktail parties.

Registration info here

Filed under: 365 Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia, Gardening in Williamsburg VA, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

Who sells more real estate in Williamsburg VA ?

Posted on December 14, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

December 2014-The numbers are in for November 2014 in the Williamsburg VA real estate market. While it was a close race way back in 2012 for market share in the month of November 2014 our office (Liz Moore and Associates) has a commanding lead in market share with over 18% of the market. Our listings and sales were almost equal to combined sales of Kingsmill Realty, Fords Colony Realty, Twiddy Realty, Coldwell Banker Traditions, Century 21 Nachman Realty, and ReMax Capital, who were the 6th-10th placed brokerages in town.

Note sales number above are from the Williamsburg Area Assoc of Realtors (WAAR) MLS numbers, It reflects sales for Residential real estate : (Single Family Detach, Attached/Condo/Townhome, Condo, Townhouse), Lots and Land: within the zip codes of 23188,23185 and 23168.

An important trend to study is how market share is shifting in our market. From the chart below we can see that only three brokerages are increasing their Williamsburg VA market share. Liz Moore and Associates, Kingsmill Realty and Twiddy. The remaining seven of the top ten brokerages are experiencing a drop in market share that ranges from 4.86% to almost 15%.

If you’re a seller who has been wondering if it might finally be time to sell, email me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com or click below, and we can prepare a complimentary analysis of market value for you – you just may be pleasantly surprised.

Psst……I’m a real estate agent.

Thanks for stopping by my website. I would love to help you find your dream home and community in the Hampton Roads or Williamsburg area or to sell your existing home.

Hampton Roads is a transient community due to the large population of military members in the area. I have a unique perspective on relocation and have helped many families move in and out of the area. I understand the kind of support team it takes to make a smooth transition.

You can reach text or call me at 757-254-8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com

I look forward to serving your real estate needs!

Best,

John

Filed under: Real Estate Statistics, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

A new sign comes to Towne

Posted on December 4, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

Hampton Roads-based residential real estate firm Prudential Towne Realty is aligning itself with the Oracle of Omaha.

On January 7th, 2014. Prudential Towne Realty becomes part of the Berkshire Hathaway Home Services team. They will then be known as Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Towne Realty.

In 2009, Towne Bank combined 3 local companies, GSH Real Estate, Prudential McCardle Realty and Prudential Decker Realty, to form Prudential Towne Realty,

In flying the Berkshire Hathaway flag, Prudential Towne becomes part of the residential real estate franchise that Warren Buffett’s conglomerate began building two years ago.

Filed under: hampton roads, real estate | Leave a comment »

Williamsburg VA Christmas Events December 1-7th 2014

Posted on December 3, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

Grand Illumination 2014 Dec 7 Light Up Your Evening with fireworks, bonfires, and the lighting of candles in the windows or cupolas of public buildings and private homes. Celebrate as live musical performances and a dazzling display of fireworks cap off a weekend of holiday events.	Williamsburgs Annual Christmas Parade! Dec 6, 8:30 am This years Christmas Parade theme: A Storybook Christmas. Our community parade promises to be a great family event featuring floats, bands a mnage of animals and the jolly ole Elf himself, Santa Claus!
Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade Dec 6, 7 pm The Yorktown waterfront is bedazzled with holiday sights and sounds, including a spectacular floating parade of lights starting at 7pm, caroling around a roaring beach bonfire, musical performances and complimentary hot cider.	A Colonial Christmas at Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center Dec 1 – Jan 4, 2015 Holiday traditions of the 17th- and 18th-centuries are recalled through special interpretive programs and, from Dec. 26-31 and Jan. 2-5, musical entertainment of the period.
Christmas Tree Lighting Dec 5, 7:30 – 8:30 pm Evening highlights include a 7 pm performance by The Fifes and Drums of York Town at the Victory Monument, festive music at Riverwalk Landing.	The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Holiday Pops Dec 6 – 7, 1:30 pm & 3 pm The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Holiday Pops, all your favorite music of this festive season. At the Kimball Theatre.
Kimball Theatre Hurrah For the Holidays Dec 5, 7 pm The excitement of Radio City Music Hall comes to Williamsburg in a festive experience for the entire family. This lively musical revue features precision kick line dancers and holiday favorite.	Wine & Design presents: Holiday Snowman Wine Bottle Painting Project Dec 5, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Holiday Snowman Wine Bottle Painting Project. You must register and pay online for this special class. We will be using our regular acrylic paints and also textured paints too.
Christmas Market on Main Dec 6, 10 am – 3 pm Whether you are searching for a holiday gift for family, friends, or as a treat to yourself, youre sure to find it at the Christmas Market on Main.	Yankee Candle Holiday Tree Lighting Dec 7, 10 am – 7 pm Join Yankee Candle Village as we light up the holidays! Sing along with Christmas carolers as Santa lights the Village Christmas Tree at 5pm 6pm.
Green Spring Garden Club Christmas Homes Tour Dec 6, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm The 55th Annual Christmas Homes Tour, presented by the Green Spring Garden Club, Inc., will take place on Saturday, December 6, and features houses decorated with holiday florals.	Centuries of Christmas at Berkeley Plantation Dec 6 – Jan 1 The mansion will be decorated with fresh greenery from Berkeleys gardens. Costumed guides will add a special touch to your holiday season with stories of Christmas at Berkeley.
New Town Welcomes the Holidays Dec 5, 5:30 – 8 pm Bring the family and ring in the Holidays in New Town. At 7:30. the lights will come on welcoming the Holiday Season.	Holiday Music in New Town Dec 1 – 18 (see website for times) Come enjoy holiday music in New Town! We will have various groups performing throughout the month.
Exquisite pottery by local ceramic artist, Russell Turnage Dec 1 – 31 New work by ceramic artist, Russell Turnage . Exquisite and functional pieces for everyday use and special occasions.	New Town presents Where Holiday Wishes Come True Dec 2 – 4, 5 – 8 pm Get a chance to win $50 to your favorite New Town establishment! See website for details.
Celtic Night at the Kimball Dec 6, 7:30 pm Delight in an entertaining evening of Celtic music and fun. Popular local group Poisoned Dwarf performs solely on acoustic instruments for their own brand of Irish traditional music.	A Candlelight Christmas Historic Homes in Charles City offer Progressive Tours during the Holiday Season Dec 6, 3:15 – 7 pm Partake in a progressive candlelight tour of Edgewood, Shirley and Berkeley Plantations.
Watermens Museum Annual Oyster Roast Dec 6, 12 – 3 pm Reminiscent of Chesapeake Bays Golden Days, when our shores contained billions of oysters. At the Yorktown Waterfront.	Berkeley Plantation Christmas Wreath Workshop and Tour Dec 6 Begin your afternoon touring the 1726 manor house, decorated with fresh arrangements and wreaths cut from Berkeleys trees.
This Century Art Gallery Holiday Wreath Making Workshop Dec 5, 12:30 – 3:30 pm Join us to explore the wonderful world of Living Wreaths perfect for the Holidays.	A Christmas Carol Street Theater Merchants Square Dec 5, Times Vary Enjoy a hilarious 30-minute street theater production of the Christmas classic from the Virginia Theatre Machine.
Yankee Candle : Make Your Own Blown Glass Ornament! Dec 6 – 7, 11 am – 6 pm Create a blown-glass holiday heirloom with the help of the Chrysler Museum Mobile Glassblowing Studio Team.	Father Christmas Strolls the Square Merchants Square Dec 6, see website for details. Greet Father Christmas in the Square on weekends throughout the season.
Auntie Ms American Cottage: Art Workshops Felted 3D Santa Head with Artist Valerie Johnson Dec 6, 9 am or 12:30 pm Come join us to create a needle felted 3D Santa Head just in time for the Holidays.	Colonial Williamsburg: Wine, Wit & Wisdom: British Fortifications Dec 6, 2 – 4:30 pm Join Executive Chef Rhys H. Lewis for a flavorful study of sherry, port, and madeira.
This Century Art Gallery Holiday Workshop Glass Etching Dec 4, 2 – 4:30 pm Etching glass is easier than you think and makes the perfect gift!	Historic Organ Recitals at the Wren Chapel Dec 4 – 6, 10 am All are welcome to join us for a recital on the historic 18th-century organ in the Wren Chapel.
WILLIAMSBURG CHORAL GUILD CAROLS AND HOLIDAY SONGS Dec 6, 1 – 3 pm Sing carols and holiday songs with members of the Williamsburg Choral Guild.	Make Your Own Ceramic Ornament (Youth) Dec 6 – 7, 10 – 11 am Everybody likes homemade gifts for Christmas!
Annies Needle Arts Festival Dec 4 – 7, 8 am – 5:30 pm Annies Needle Arts Festival is a four-day cross-stitch and needle art event sponsored by Just CrossStitch magazine.
Click here for Christmas in Williamsburg Information

Filed under: 365 Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia, Christmas, Holiday Events, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

A Mr. Williamsburg -Neighborhood Spotlight: Governor’s Land at Two Rivers, Williamsburg VA

Posted on November 26, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

An award-winning golf course, two pools, a deep water harbor marina, tennis courts, and a clubhouse hopping with social activities — this is Governor’s Land at Two Rivers. Yet, so is this: miles of private trails for quiet walks through the woods and marshlands, park benches placed for optimum viewing of nesting eagles tending their young, and a sand beach along the James River that’s perfect for picnics and bonfires.

For Dan Fitzpatrick and his wife, Tryna, it was that active, family-oriented lifestyle that drew them to Governor’s Land four years ago. “We have three daughters and knew that the local public schools were highly rated,” said Dan, who with Tryna owns and operates 3a Media, an IT marketing company. “We also like that even though Governor’s Land is fairly large, when you come into it, past the front security area, you feel like you’re entering a small community.”

Governor’s Land offers a variety of luxury homes — Federal, Colonial, Georgian, and Cape Cod – to appeal to the genial mix of empty-nesters/retirees and young families that call it home. Located seven miles from Colonial Williamsburg, at the junction of the James and Chickahominy rivers, it encompasses more than 1,400 acres, sixty percent of which are dedicated green space, including 200 acres of shoreline and a wildlife sanctuary. “The neighborhood makes it a priority to maintain its protected wetlands,” Dan said, noting that owls, eagles and osprey are just a few of the birds that thrive in the ecologically rich area.

The community’s myriad recreational offerings include miles of walking and bike trails, a favorite with the Fitzgeralds, who can hop on the Virginia Capital Trail from just outside the Governor’s Land entrance. The 18-hole, Two Rivers Country Club golf course was designed by three-time Golf Architect of the Year Tom Fazio, and Golf Digest has twice named it one of the Top 10 courses in Virginia. (It encompasses tidal marshlands, crystalline lakes, woodlands, and 1,000 yards of riverfront.) As Williamsburg’s only member-owned golf club, it offers year-round clinics and tournaments for all ages and levels of golfers.

The Two Rivers clubhouse is a neighborhood hub, with waterfront restaurants Dan described as “having the best sunsets, hands down.” There is sophisticated fine dining at the River Room, and casual fare and cocktails at the bustling Osprey Grille, Terrace and Bar, which offers live music on weekends. Clubhouse activities range from speaker forums and pasta nights to games of bridge, poker, and mah-jongg.

Governor Land’s pools are also gathering spots. “On July 4th,Uncle Sam comes out to lead the group to the pool for a cookout. It’s like Norman Rockwell in 2012,” Dan said, laughing. Likewise, the community’s beach, which is equipped with picnic tables, a grill and outdoor shower, offers more than swimming. “In the summer, people grill there, they have a bonfire. There’s a real sense of this being a family community,” Dan noted. The beach is also the site of the country club’s annual Christmas party, which features a boat parade, caroling, a marshmallow roast, and Santa’s arrival on an offshore barge.

It’s not only the natural setting and country club amenities that make Governor’s Landing exceptional, but also the sense of being part of a safe (24-hour security includes surveillance cameras and a car patrol) and caring community. “If my kids didn’t make it to the bus, I know there’d be someone there to look out for them,” Dan said. “There’s a feeling here that your neighbors look out for you and your well being.”

Governor’s Land, which is a short drive from the shops, restaurants and cultural activities of downtown Williamsburg, will have 733 homes when it is fully built-out. There are currently homes on the market, as well as select home building sites available. For more information, or to arrange a personal tour of Governor’s Land, contact realtor John Womeldorf via email at John@MrWilliamsburg.com or by telephone at (757) 254-8136.

Psst. I’m a real estate agent…

This Neighborhood Spotlight is brought to you by local resident and REALTOR, John Womeldorf, known around town as “Mr. Williamsburg” because of his extensive knowledge of the Williamsburg/Hampton Roads area and its real estate market. If you are relocating, retiring, seeking a vacation home, or simply curious about homes and neighborhoods in the Williamsburg/Hampton Roads area, John is happy to help. Click here to send him an email, or call him at 757-254-8136.

Neighborhood Orientation Tours

Are the schools good? How is the traffic? Can you hear planes from nearby airports? What are the grocery options nearby ?

It can be daunting to get all the information you need to choose not only the right house, but also the right neighborhood. Schedule one of John’s Neighborhood Orientation tours of communities in the Williamsburg/Hampton Roads area to get such essentials as:

home prices – shopping centers – military bases – recreational facilities – public and private schools – public transportation – aircraft/traffic noise – flood zones – playgrounds – major traffic patterns and commute times and more

Click here to email John about arranging a tour, or call him at 757-254-8136.

Are You A Military Family?

The Williamsburg/Hampton Roads area is home to many military families. John is experienced in helping them with the unique issues raised by frequent relocations,(PCS) and he understands the kind of support team it takes to make smooth transitions both into and out of the area. Click here to email John about your needs and concerns, or call him at 757-254-8136.

Specific Needs Properties

Active Adult/55+ Communities, Building Lots, Foreclosure/REO Properties, Townhomes, Condominiums, Golf Course properties and more….

If you have a specific type of property in mind, John can help you find it. For assistance in unearthing just the right property in the Williamsburg/Hampton Road area, click here to contact John by email, or call him at 757-254-8136.

FAST FACTS

Community: Governor’s Land at Two Rivers

Location: Only a few minutes drive from Colonial Williamsburg, where the Chickahominy and James rivers meet

Number of Homes: 733 when built-out only a few building lots left.

Lots for New Construction: Yes Click here to search

Public Schools: Matoaka Elementary, Hornsby Middle School, and Jamestown High School. Click here to email realtor John Womeldorf about arranging a tour or interview with the administration of any of these schools.

Nearby Private Schools: Walsingham Academy, Williamsburg Christian Academy, Providence Classical, Williamsburg Montessori, Hampton Roads Academy

Homes Styles: Federal, Colonial, Cape Cod, and Georgian

Home Sizes: 2500-7000 sq feet (4000 Avg)

Date Homes Built: 1991- Today

Lot sizes: .30 to an acre. .56 Avg.

HOA: The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers Homeowner’s Association fee is $223 monthly. Membership in Two Rivers Country is mandatory for homeowners in Gov Land. Different club membership options are available, including some for residents of Williamsburg who do not live in Governor’s Land; email John@MrWilliamsburg.com for details.

Home Prices: From the mid $400’s to $1 million plus

Property Tax Rate: .77 per $100 of value . ( Taxes on a home valued at $600k would be $4620 annually)

HOA: The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers Homeowner’s Association fee is $635 every three months. Different membership options are available, including some for residents of Williamsburg who do not live in Governor’s Land; email John@MrWilliamsburg.com for details.

Home Sales: There are currently 47 homes on the market, for prices ranging from $458,000 to $3,000,000. In the last 12 months, 24 homes sold for between $425,000 and $999,000 (an average price per square foot of $166). Average time on the market was 145 days.

Property Tax Rate: .77 per $100

Public Transportation: Governor’s Land is within 30 to 90 minutes of three international airports: Norfolk, Richmond, and Williamsburg/Newport News. Amtrak has a station here in Williamsburg with direct service to the northeast corridor. Richmond, DC, NYC and beyond.

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES

· Award-winning Golf Course

· Clubhouse with Waterfront Restaurants

· Deep Water Harbor Marina for Boats up to 50 Feet in Length

· Private Beach with Picnic Tables, Grill, Outside Shower

· 24-hour Security Patrols and Camera Surveillance

· Exercise Facility

· Pools

· Tennis Courts

· Wildlife Sanctuary

· Marshlands Boardwalk

· Tot Lot

· Ball fields

· Volleyball and Croquet Courts

· Walking and Biking Trails

· Planned Social Activities

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A case for title insurance- What do you mean I don’t own my land anymore ?

Posted on November 23, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

In my job as a real estate agent I am always asked by clients why do we need title insurance ?

Here is one instance where the buyer was very lucky to have bought it.

In spring 2013, the Virginia Beach real estate market was up, and Guy Gugliotta was thinking about selling.

For decades, the New York writer had owned two vacant lots on the seaside in Sandbridge – investment properties surrounded by vacation homes. With thoughts toward buying in another part of the country, he contacted Siebert Realty in Virginia Beach to talk about options.

The call seemed to surprise the agency, and the agents’ response surprised Gugliotta even more. He couldn’t sell the properties, they said, because he had already sold them. Didn’t he remember? The deal had closed the previous August.

Gugliotta was floored. He hadn’t sold his properties, so who did? And in the world of real estate, so full of documents, signatures and attorneys, how could someone do that?

Those questions have dogged Gugliotta through court proceedings in which he fought to reclaim his property and through calls to law enforcement agencies he hopes will catch the thief. The same questions have haunted the two buyers who thought they made above-board purchases and the agencies and banks who thought they were conducting a standard real estate transaction.

The truth bewildered them all. But the most startling discovery may be that while this exact crime is rare nationally and in Virginia Beach, some who work in real estate say it’s surprisingly easy to commit.

"It’s mind-blowing how vulnerable our system is," said Billy Joe McFarland, a Florida attorney who works in real estate law. He said he’s seen fraudsters fake deeds and pretend to be owners, but Gugliotta’s case seems to be the most brazen yet.

Colonial Williamsburg Announces $600 Million Campaign

Posted on November 21, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation has embarked on a $600 million campaign to both reinforce and reimagine its role in the 21st century as a leader in history education and historical preservation.
Since its restoration began in 1926, Colonial Williamsburg has evolved as a source of learning and inspiration about America’s founding. To this day, visitors to the colonial capital city encounter the very halls, homes and taverns where visionaries like Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry debated the promise—and perils—of a revolution that would change the course of human history.
Preserving this essential part of America’s heritage—and finding new ways to deepen the public’s appreciation of its relevance today—is the focus of the Campaign for History and Citizenship that Colonial Williamsburg will announce on Saturday, Nov. 22. Investments in the campaign will strengthen and expand the programs, staff, facilities and technological innovation necessary to advance Americans’ understanding of their nation’s history and the very principles on which their own citizenship is based.
“The American Revolution set in motion the world’s greatest experiment in representative government; it remains a touchstone that helps Americans understand who we are and how we have evolved as such a diverse and enterprising society,” said Foundation President and CEO Mitchell B. Reiss, who will formally launch the campaign’s public phase with other Foundation leaders in a ceremony Saturday at the Capitol. “By preserving the artifacts, stories and very setting of the Revolution, Colonial Williamsburg offers modern Americans a direct link to the founding generation—whose extraordinary words and deeds challenge us to embrace our own roles in shaping our country’s future.”

Continue reading →

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Aerial Video- For Mr Williamsburg the sky’s the limit.

Posted on November 21, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

Look up in the sky. It’s a bird. It’s a plane. No, it’s a drone taking a video of your house, your neighborhood, the waterfront view.

Although the word drone conjures up images of military spy craft, we are now using a small remote-control four rotor helicopter with a camera that takes stills and video. With a number of homes the regular photos on the ground are not very impressive, but you get in the air and it looks like you are in the Florida Keys or something.

For that special property we can create the wow factor.” click the photo below for an example of our aerial video photography.

Home buyers are visual people. Aerial video can be the difference needed to bring a prospect to a home or property. Certain properties cannot be fully appreciated unless you see them by air or water. Take the Uncles Neck neighborhood in Lanexa. If you have never been on the Chickahominy River you don’t know what you are missing.

Take a look and see what you think

I would be happy to discuss a marketing plan for your unique Williamsburg or Hampton Roads Virginia property. email John@MrWilliamsburg.com for further info.

Filed under: Selling a home in Williamsburg VA, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

How’s the real estate market in Williamsburg VA–Oct 2014

Posted on November 20, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

A brief recap of our overall market here in Williamsburg VA.

Well, we have good news to report on the Williamsburg VA real estate market – We have reached a point of stability.

As we move into the winter market we are starting to see things wind down. We have a 7.2 month supply of homes which is about the same level as last month. Obviously, we would like to see more sales as would our sellers but we are maintaining our sales levels, not decreasing which is more good news. Additional positive news is interest rates remain low and prices are stable so the opportunity for buyers to lock in reasonable monthly payments is available. From the buyer’s perspective, now is a great time to buy. Sellers are netting approximately 98% of list price at present. A number that has increased steadily in the past few years. ( So a home listed for $300k is selling for $294k on average)

The average selling period for home sellers here in Williamsburg is 57 days. We are expecting mortgage interest rates to rise as we move into 2015 . Right now we have great rates so take advantage while you can because the Fed still thinks it will be a “considerable time” before it begins to raise interest rates. The Zero Interest Rate Policy remains in full force, as it has been since it began at the end of 2008. This policy will change because we cannot sustain this type of monetary policy as it just continues to add to our National debt. Plus, we need a market-driven interest rate environment and a more predictable monetary policy to help foster long term economic growth. This will definitely impact our housing recovery moving forward.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss your housing situation in more detail so please feel free to contact me via email John@MrWilliamsburg.com or give me a call 757.254.8136

If you’re a Williamsburg or Coastal Virginia home seller who has been wondering if it might finally be time to sell, email me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com , and I can prepare a complimentary analysis of market value for you – you just may be pleasantly surprised.

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Filed under: Selling a home in Williamsburg VA, williamsburg va | Leave a comment »

New subdivision with 222 homes near Water Country approved

Posted on November 19, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

After offering York County more than $600,000 to address school capacity issues, Whittaker’s Mill will join King’s Creek and the Marquis in Upper York County.

The York County Board of Supervisors voted 4 to 1 — with Supervisor Walter Zaremba opposing — on Tuesday night to approve Whittaker’s Mill, a 222-home, 77-acre residential development on Penniman and Winchester roads near the intersection of Route 199 and Interstate 64.

Whittaker’s Mill consists of 114 single-family homes and up to 108 townhouse units with four park areas, a clubhouse, a swimming pool and community garden plots. It touches Cheatham Annex and an industrial property to the west.

Whittaker’s Mill was designed by Brandon Currence Architects who were involved in the planning for a number of communities in the area including Port Warwick, Nelsons Grant, Church Square and many others. The design for Whittakers Mill combines the efficiency and in town feel of a town home community oriented toward an open square at the front of the community. ( similar to Port Warwick). In the back of the community will be traditional single family lots as well as larger estate sized lots with dramatic wooded ravine views.

The town square and neighborhood clubhouse will provide focal points for community social events. Both will enjoy a view of the largest pond in the neighborhood.

The development is located in the York County attendance zones for Magruder Elementary, Queens Lake Middle, and Bruton High Schools. Based on the number of homes proposed planning staff estimate that the proposed development can be expected to generate up to 101 school students – 45 at Magruder Elementary School, 24 at Queens Lake Middle School, and 32 at Bruton High School

More of the story here

Location map Whittaker’s Mill

Filed under: New Homes Williamsburg Virginia, Real Estate, williamsburg va, York County VA | Leave a comment »

But I don’t want to mow a lawn anymore ………

Posted on November 18, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

In my job as a realtor in the Williamsburg VA area one question commonly asked “ Are there any detached home communities in Williamsburg, James City County or New Kent where we don’t have to mow the yard ?

“We are sick and tired of mowing the yard, fertilizing the yard, trimming the bushes and raking leaves. Life is too short to spend my spare hours doing these tasks. I would rather golf, cycle, travel, relax”, ( insert your reason here)

To answer the question there are there are a number of detached home neighborhoods in Williamsburg/ James City County and neighboring New Kent County that will fit the bill if you don’t won’t to consider the numerous condo and town homes communities in the area that commonly take care of all or most of the outside chores

Lawn maintenance for detached homeowners is provided by the Property Owner Associations in The Settlement at Powhatan Creek, ( active adult) , Brandon Woods, Brandywyne, the Nottingham Place neighborhood of Ford’s Colony , Charlotte Park in New Town, Parts of Orchard Hill in Stonehouse, Capital Landing Green,and Kensington Woods, There are a few detached homes in the town home communities of both Villages of Powhatan and Waterford in Powhatan Secondary. In New Kent home buyers choose from Bel Green at Brickshire, the Four Seasons at New Kent Vineyards and Oakmont Villas.

You can read detailed spotlight articles on these Williamsburg communities here but below is a brief recap.

Charlotte Park in New Town

One of the most popular detached home neighborhoods in Williamsburg/ James City County with included lawn main is the Charlotte Park portion of New Town. Most folks know about the townhomes and condos in New Town but don’t realize there is a detached neighborhood there as well.

Detached home designs offered in Charlotte Park evoke the charm and allure of South Carolina’s coastal Low-country. The designs feature deep porches, steep pitched roofs, wide overhangs and dormers in the true Southern tradition. Interiors are spacious, well lighted with plenty of windows, and just perfect for living family-style with hardwood floors and high ceilings.

When completed, the Charlotte Park neighborhood of New Town will have approximately 150 detached homes on tree-lined streets, all with front porches. The builder offers many options and floor plans to select from. Each home will overlook a green space or park, while alleys allow access to the rear of the homes and their two-car garages. The neighborhood swimming pool in New Town is now open and is located in Charlotte Park. . Sales are brisk in Charlotte Park in 2014 with almost all of the premium lots that back to woods now sold. At this point it is one of the top selling communities in Williamsburg/ James City County.

Home buyers can choose a plan and even customize it to their liking in Charlotte Park.

Search homes for sale in Charlotte Park here

Capitol Landing Green:

This development represents a rare and unique opportunity to own a newly constructed home only a block from the restored area of Colonial Williamsburg while also providing yard and common area maintenance to simplify your life.

A brand new home community in the City of Williamsburg.Capitol Landing Green is composed of 16 single family home sites including a community green framed by the renovation of two turn-of-the-century homes that were on the site prior to development.

These arts and crafts inspired homes offer large porches front and rear along with first floor living in each house and the low City of Williamsburg tax rate.

The community features private yards that will be maintained by the Homeowner’s Association. This includes mowing, leaf removal, mulching, maintenance of the irrigation system, weed-eating, trimming of bushes, over seeding and fertilization, The Homeowner’s Association will also maintain all the common areas which include the green off Capitol Landing Road, a community garden plot where each resident can grow flowers, vegetables, etc. if they choose to do so

HOA fees are only $125 monthly at Capitol Landing Green

See what’s for sale at Capitol Landing Green

Nottingham Place Fords Colony

Over the years The developers of Ford’s Colony received many requests from Ford’s Colony residents for an option in the neighborhood that would eliminate home, lawn and garden maintenance. Their solution was Nottingham Place, site of the PHBA 2004 Parade of Homes.

Nottingham Place was one of the latest and most unique gated neighborhoods within the 3,000-acre, master-planned community Ford’s Colony at Williamsburg. Each of the 72 home sites in the neighborhood features classic residential architecture most of which is based on home plans, designed exclusively by Southern Living©

Living in this gated community is Worry Free & Low Maintenance. Think of another way to spend your time because you won’t be doing yard work!
The association provides all of the following for home owners: security, trash pickup, lawn mowing, edging, trimming, fertilizing, weed control, mulching, irrigation maintenance, snow & leaf removal. Home owners also enjoy all the other amenities that Ford’s Colony offers including two swimming pools, tennis courts, 13 miles of walking trails, and over forty clubs and activities

Homes in Nottingham Place range in size from 1,733 to over 3,400 Square feet and start from the $400’s

There are a number of choice building lots still available in Nottingham Place for those wanting to create their dream home. With the price drops we have seen in recent years both in lot prices and construction costs building new has become very affordable. We just priced a new home and lot for a client in Ford’s Colony and were amazed that the price came in under $400,000 ( contact me for details). with all the bells and whistles !

Current building lot prices range from a super low $50k to $117k Some of the lot prices are down a WHOPPING 75% from the peak . That lot listed for $50k sold for $ 197k in 2003, OUCH

Search homes for sale in Nottingham Place here

Search all homes for sale in Fords Colony here

Kensington Woods

Another detached home option in Williamsburg that included lawn maintenance is Kensington Woods. Priced from the mid-$300s, most Kensington Woods homes have brick, low maintenance exteriors and rear-loading garages with alley-way access. Some models feature the increasingly popular downstairs master bedrooms, and some homes included elevators . The $130 monthly home owner fee covers, all yard maintenance , common area maintenance ,use of the playground and trash removal .

Set on 10 acres across the street from the Williamsburg Winery and Wedmore Place, Kensington Woods will have approximately 40 homes when complete. The homes are set on .15 acre lots.

The first home owners moved into Kensington Woods in 2006. Home sales prices were in the low $300’s in the last 12 months.

Update November 2014

New construction homes by WESTMORELAND are now available in Kensington Woods in Williamsburg VA

Open 1st floor plan with 9′ ceilings + beautiful 2 story great room with fireplace. Granite countertops, wood floors, & energy efficient features such as 2×6 exterior wall construction, Enviro-Dri weather barrier system, Energy Star appliances & more. 2 homes ready by mid-December 2014. Thirteen additional lots & 6 floor plans available in this lovely community.

Search all homes for sale in Kensington Woods

The Reserve at Williamsburg

October 22-With 19 sales in only a few weeks The Reserve at Williamsburg is proving to be one of the areas fastest selling and most popular neighborhoods.

Located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, The Reserve is the area’s newest single family home community. Offering 5 different floor plans, including 3 with first floor owner’s suites, there is a dream home design for every buyer’s needs.The community also offers the area’s most luxurious clubhouse with an outdoor swimming pool, gym, yoga room, and multiple entertainment areas. Come enjoy the lifestyle of one of Williamsburg’s most desirable communities with pricing starting in the $290’s.

3 Ranch-Style Homes to Choose From & Craftsman-Style Cottage Elevations Included On Every Home .Home sizes range from 1407 square feet to over 3000 square feet.

Full Finished Basements are Available Offering Additional Living Space. Enjoy The Convenience Of Lawn Care Maintenance Included, Come View the Impressive Clubhouse, Community Pool, Gym, and Banquet Room

Download floorplans for The Reserve at Williamsburg here

Villages of Powhatan and Waterford – Both in Powhatan Secondary.

Villages of Powhatan is a town home community located within the Powhatan Secondary neighborhood. Within this community are a small number of detached homes.

Home Owner Fees here are $126 monthly which includes all Yard Maintenance, Common Area Maintenance, Garbage Removal, Exterior Building Maintenance and Property Management .The townhomes and the detached homes at the Villages at Powhatan offer unique design and architecture with open floor plans, high ceilings, and colonial details. These homes offer 2 to 4 bedrooms, 2 to 3 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, with 1,800 to 2,300 sq. ft. of living area. Most homes in Villages of Powhatan offer semi-private driveways, fenced backyards, and prices beginning in the mid $200′s.

Waterford at Powhatan Secondary is another sub-neighborhood within Powhatan Secondary. Consisting of approximately 88 homes. Both detached and attached homes are available. Terry Peterson was the builder of Waterford which was built from 1999- 2002. A few of the homes are waterfront and enjoy beautiful views of the lake. A few one level homes were built but the majority are two story. Sizes range from 1500-almost 2800 square feet with very open floor plans and high ceilings.

Search homes for sale at Bel Green Villas in Brickshire here

Oakmont Villas at Kentland

A planned community surrounding The Tradition Golf Club at Royal New Kent at the front of Brickshire. Offers detached villa homes and conventionall homes along with garage town homes. The Community includes pool, clubhouse, trails and more.Ideally situated in New Kent county, between Richmond and Williamsburg. Low county taxes with beautiful rural surroundings. Most houses back up to the golf course or wetland areas. Ground maintenance includes lawn, irrigations, trash and snow removal. Located in Providence Forge ,Va Between Williamsburg & Richmond off of Interstate 64. HOA fee is $148 monthly.

New Homes and resale homes are available avail from the mid $100’s

Search homes for sale in Oakmont Villas in Kentland

Map of these neighborhood locations in Williamsburg/ James City County and New Kent County

Psst.I’m a real estate agent.

You can reach me by phone at 757-254-8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com

I look forward to serving your real estate needs!

Best,

John

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Ice skating returns to Williamsburg at Mid County Park

Posted on November 15, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

James City County Parks and Recreation welcomes winter with cool fun at Mid County Park! The County’s seasonal synthetic ice rink, previously located in New Town, has moved to Mid County Park to offer users more space and an improved skating surface.

Iceburg, the Skate Rink at Mid County Park, opens for the winter season Nov. 15-March 1. To accommodate more guests, the operating season was expanded. The relocation to Mid County Park also offers rink visitors access to more amenities including picnic tables and shelters, indoor restrooms and heated facilities, more ADA accessible parking and walking routes as well as full use of the popular and nearby Kidsburg playground as another fun recreational offering. All park facilities will remain open during skate rink operating hours.

There are weekday, weekend and winter break hours. The rink is open daily – weekdays 5-9 p.m. and weekends noon-9 p.m. The rink is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Operation hours may be adjusted based on weather conditions, participation numbers and special events. Also check out jamescitycountyva.gov/iceburg regularly for the complete list of themed skating nights and festivities.

Skating is $8/adult and $7/youth ages 6-17, and the fee includes the skate rental. James City County and Williamsburg residents can skate for $7/adult and $5/youth ages 6-17, including skate rental. Youth ages 5 and younger skate for free. Season passes are also available for families, adults, youth and seniors ranging from $30-65 per person depending on residency. The rink will maintain a supply of skates ranging from children’s 9 to women’s 10 to men’s 13.

There is no age requirement, but everyone entering the rink must wear skates. Children under 12 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.

The surface of the open-air skate rink is made of an EZ Glide 350 synthetic ice surface, offering a smooth surface suitable for all skating activities. Synthetic ice has a similar surface to ice, and almost anything that can be done on refrigerated ice can be performed and perfected on this synthetic ice. While synthetic ice is about 65 percent of the speed of real ice, there is risk of injury from falls and collisions. Skaters of all ages and abilities will find the surface as a safe and enjoyable alternative to refrigerated ice.

During the seasonal operation of the Skate Rink, the park’s basketball courts will be closed through March 7. Please visit the County parks offering basketball court options: Ironbound Park, 150 Magazine Rd., Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Memorial Hwy. and the Warhill Sports Complex, 5700 Warhill Trail which features four courts with lights. Two indoor courts are also available at the James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd. For a one-time fee of $10, County residents can purchase a Daily Card, good for two years. The Card provides free access to the Center fitness equipment and courts on three days – Thursdays, 1-3 p .m.; Fridays, 6-8 p.m.; and Saturdays, 2-5 p.m.

For more information on skating, group rates or to schedule private functions, please call 757-259-5360.

Filed under: 365 Things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia, Christmas, Holiday Events, williamsburg va | Tagged: ice skating williamsburg | Leave a comment »

Xanterra to withdraw plans for Kingsmill in Williamsburg VA

Posted on November 15, 2014 by mrwilliamsburg

Members of the The Club at Kingsmill received the announcement below of Xanterra Kingsmill, LLC’s intent to withdraw its master plan amendment for action before James City County. Here is the link to the master plan amendment details from the JCC Planning Commission’s June 4, 2014 agenda. It was scheduled for the Board of Supervisors’ December 9 meeting.

Dear Members of The Club at Kingsmill,

In an effort to keep our members updated on news and information as it relates to the Resort and the Kingsmill community in general, please be advised that Xanterra Kingsmill, LLC ("Xanterra"), the owner of Kingsmill Resort, intends to withdraw its master plan amendment application in Case No. Z-0002-2014/MP-0002-2014 currently pending before James City County. Given the controversy surrounding the application related to new development within the Kingsmill community, Xanterra has decided to withdraw the application at this time in order to analyze ways in which the application may be modified to more fully address various issues and concerns raised by certain County personnel and Kingsmill residents to date. As part of this analysis, Xanterra will consider development alternatives as they relate to existing by right development parcels within Kingsmill in order to possibly shift some development activity to sites that would not require the level of approval associated with the current application. It is Xanterra’s hope that these efforts will ultimately lead to the ability to submit a revised land use application that is more warmly received by the County and all other stakeholders within the Kingsmill community.

Sincerely,

Wayne Nooe

General Manager

Filed under: Kingsmill | Leave a comment »

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Kensington Woods

Update November 2014

The Reserve at Williamsburg

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