Fredericksburg City:

• 51 days on market – this is 55 days less than in June 2009
• Sellers received, on average, 93.81% of their list price when the home sold
• There is 9.76 months of inventory on the market
• 17 homes sold in June 2010 – this is 12 less than in June 2009
• The most popular price range was $250,000-$299,999.   
• The median sold price was $250,00000, compared to $259,900 in June 2009
• Financing Terms:  Conventional – 4, FHA – 7, VA – 3, Cash – 4

Orange County

• 171 days on market – this is 21 days more than in June 2009
• Sellers received, on average, 90.54% of their list price when the home sold
• There is 9.36 months of inventory on the market
• 44 homes sold in June 2010 – this is 10 more than June 2009
• The most popular price ranges were $300,000-$399,999.
• The median sold price was $193,250, compared to $212,500 in June 2009 
• Financing Terms:  Conventional – 14, FHA – 14, VA – 4, Other – 2, Cash – 9, Seller Financing – 1

Spotsylvania County

• 77 days on market – this is 38 less than June 2009
• Sellers received, on average, 92.51% of their list price when the home sold
• There is 4.97 months inventory on the market
• 192 homes sold in June 2010 – this is 10 more than in June 2009 
• The most popular price range was $250,000-$299,999
• The median sold price was $191,000, compared to $196,500 in June 2009 
• Financing Terms:  Conventional – 42, FHA – 72, VA – 30, Cash – 34, Assumption – 4, Other – 8, Seller Financing – 1

Stafford County

• 55 days on market – this is 38 less than June 2009
• Sellers received, on average, 95.09% of their list price when the home sold
• There is 4.63 months inventory on the market
• 196 homes sold in June 2010 - this is 10 more than in June 2009 
• The most popular price range was $300,000-$399,999
• The median sold price was $265,811, compared to $237,450 in June 2009 
• Financing Terms:  Conventional – 45, FHA – 57, VA – 70, Cash – 16, Assumption – 4, Other – 4

Prince William County

• 33 days on market – this is 45 less than June 2009 
• Sellers received, on average, 96.97% of their list price when the home sold
• There is 3.77 months inventory on the market
• 779 homes sold in June 2010 - this is 16 less than in June 2009
• The most popular price range was $300,000-$399,999
• The median sold price was $255,000, compared to $195,000 in June 2009
• Financing Terms:  Conventional – 201, FHA – 314, VA – 134, Assumption – 11, Cash – 110, Other – 9

The 4th of July is a fantastic time to be in and around the Fredericksburg area.  The rich Revolutionary War history and Fredericksburg’s part in masterminding and securing America’s freedom makes this our own special holiday.  If you are looking for something to do this weekend, here is a list I’ve compiled.

 

 

 

 

 

Stafford County

“The Complete History of America” Musical performed at the Riverside Dinner Theater. 

Friday, July 2- Sunday, July 4  (6:30pm dinner seating)  Tickets:  $42

www.rsdinnertheater.com/dt/upcomingspecialevents_2.aspx

Fabulous 4th of July at Ferry Farm

Saturday, July 3  (10am-5pm)  small admission fee

Interact on an 18th century farm while farm workers perform daily tasks around George Washington’s childhood farm.  Learn how the Patawomeck Indian tribe functioned in the 16oos.  Enjoy crafts, games, and live music.  Food vendors will be on site.  Trolleys will be running from the Fredericksburg City street festival, as parking is limited at Ferry Farm.

www.ferryfarm.org/events.html

Stars and Stripes Weekend at Potomac Point Winery

Wine tours and wine tastings will take place all weekend long at regular fees.  The band Blackstone will be playing on Sunday from 1-5pm.  A special July 4th menu is available for purchase. 

Saturday, July 2  (11am-9:30pm)       Sunday, July 3  (11am-6pm)

 

Spotsylvania County

Independence Day Kickoff Celebration – at Lake Anna Winery

The vineyard will feature live music, lite appetizers, and wine sold by the glass.  The $10 admission includes a winery tour and a souvenir wine glass. 

Friday, July 2 (6-10pm)

www.lawinery.com

Stars and Stripes Spotsylvania Spectacular

A fun event for all age groups.  Come and enjoy pony rides, moonbounces, a petting zoo, a tour of the historic Spotsylvania Courthouse and 1855 jail, and much more.  There will be 3 stages playing Bluegrass music, and the night is finished with a huge fireworks display!  Vendors will be on site for food and drink sales.

Saturday, July 3   (3-10pm)

www.spotsylvania.va.us/

 

Fredericksburg City

33rd Annual Rappahannock River Raft Race sponsored by the Fredericksburg Jaycees

Come watch this very entertaining and traditional Fredericksburg event.  Prizes will be awarded in several categories.  The race starts at 11:30am at the Port of Falmouth Park on River Road in Stafford and will end at approximately 4pm at the City Docks on Sophia Street.  If you are interested in participating please contact the Fredericksburg Jaycees at fburgjayceescdvp@gmail.com.  Entry fees do apply. 

Saturday, July 3

Fredericksburg City Heritage Festival

The always fun Heritage Festival will take place over two days this year since July 4th falls on a Sunday.  The traditional street festival will be on Saturday, July 3 from (10am-4pm).  The Heritage Day Parade will begin at 9:30am on Carolina Street and is still looking for entries for this year’s parade.  The parade is limited to bikes, strollers, wagons, and walking. 

Heritage Festival 5 Mile – Saturday, July 3 (7:45am) at the Fredericksburg Visitor’s Center on Caroline Street    Registration is $20 pre-race day and $25 race day  Cash prizes will be given to the top 3 male and top 3 female runners.  http://www.racetimingunlimited.org/raceinfo/HF10Info.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1

The fireworks will take place on Sunday, July 4 at Pratt Park. Music will begin at 8pm and fireworks will begin at dusk.  The Frederickbsburg Jaycees will be on hand selling glow-in-the-dark jewelry to help make the celebration even more exciting.   Be sure to bring your own refreshments and blankets and chairs to the fireworks display.   

Heritage Day Festival and 5 Mile Run – Saturday, July 3

Fireworks – Sunday, July 4

Nothing says a great summer like the adoption of a new pet!  Let’s see who the Fredericksburg SPCA has available today! 

Meet Trixie!

Trixie is a 10-12 month old female bobtail.  She is just the cutest little girl.  She loves to play and window watch.  She enjoys being the center of attention and playing with toys.  She has been around other cats and does very well when properly introduced.  Her sweet and friendly personality makes her good with children and adults.  She is up-to-date on her shots and is spayed.  She would love to be in a new home by Father’s Day and celebrate with your family!  Call today to make an appointment to meet Trixie! 

 

 

 

 

Meet Jersey!

Jersey is a 4 year old female, hound mix.  She’s a woman who knows what she wants, so obedience classes may be a good idea to continue her training and help her bond with her new family.  She is very smart and eager to learn.  She is a good listener, but still needs a family who is patient and willing to put in a little effort.  Jersey loves to play and is good with kids and adults.  Her energy makes her a perfect companion for an athletic family!  She is good with other dogs.  This hound is one smart cookie and is very outgoing.  She is up-to-date on her shots and is spayed.  Come visit Jersey and see if she will make a perfect addition this summer! 

 

There are currently 69 cats and 23 dogs up for adoption at the Fredericksburg SPCA.  If you want to help, but just can’t commit to adoption, the SPCA is always looking for donations and volunteers. 

The Fredericksburg SPCA is located at 10819 Courthouse Road Fredericksburg, VA 22407.  They can be contacted at (540) 898-1500. 

The 2010 Fredericksburg SPCA Rescue Run, sponsored by Coldwell Banker Elite, is being held this Sunday, June 13, 2010.  The race starts at 7am sharp.  Registration is $25 and you can register the morning of the race.  Registration will be held from 6-6:45am at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library on Caroline Street.  Light breakfast refreshments will be provided after the race.  For more information please click here. 

It’s that time of year again!  The 14th Annual Rappahannock Regional Soap Box Derby is this Saturday.  William Street will be closed from College Ave to Washington Ave.  The sewer construction at William Street and Kenmore Ave will not impede race day.  Opening Ceremonies start at 8am and races begin at 9am.  If you would like a spot along the course, get there early and bring your own chair.  The street fills up fast with spectators.  Also remember to bring your own refreshments; some vendors will be on site for food and drink purchases.  Sunday, June 13, 2010 will serve as a rain date.   

This weekend will be a busy one in Fredericksburg.  The University of Mary Washington graduates on Saturday and Mother’s Day is on Sunday.  If you haven’t already done so, you need to make reservations for Mother’s Day brunch now!  Here are a few of my favorite places for brunch:

Jake and Mike’s - 806 William Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401  (540)-370-4590

This is, by far, my most favorite place for brunch and lunch.  Their prices are good and the food is delicious!  Their brunch menu offers a combination of breakfast and lunch options.  Portions are big.  This place is pretty small, so you will want to call early to get a seat at a good time.  Brunch is served from 10am-2pm every Sunday.  Jake and Mike’s offers both indoor and outdoor seating.   

Poppy Hill Tuscan Kitchen- 1000 Charles Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401  (540) 373- 2035

Mother’s Day brunch will be served at Poppy Hill from 10am-4pm.  They are featuring a “Pick Your Own Two Course Brunch Menu.”  This menu includes your choice of champagne, mimosa, or bellini.  The menu also includes a selection of breakfast and dinner foods.  Poppy Hill offers indoor and outdoor seating. 

The Otter House - 1005 Princess Anne Street Fredericksburg, VA  22401  (540) 656-2969

The Otter House is one of our newest restaurants downtown, but it is good and I hope it stays.  Brunch begins at 10am and features a selection of breakfast foods and lunch items.  Portions are generous and the waitstaff is charming.  Service is fast and you may have luck getting the brunch time you want since not many people know how good this place is yet.  The Otter House offers both indoor and outdoor dining. 

The Hospitality House - 2801 Plank Road Fredericksburg, VA 22401 (540) 736-1005

You know, the old Holiday Inn Select in Central Park.  The Hospitality House has kept many of the Holiday Inn’s traditions including the Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet.  Yes, it is hotel food.  However, the Hospitality House has stepped up their culinary dedication and the food has improved.  Since Claiborne’s no longer exists, this may be your best bet if you are looking for a buffet this weekend. 

Brock’s Riverside Grill- 503 Sophia Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401   (540) 370-1820

I have mixed feelings about Brock’s.  The food is usually pretty good, but sometimes the service leaves something to be desired.  The setting is quite lovely, with some seating available on balconies overlooking the Rappahannock River.  There is ample seating in this restaurant, so it may be a good choice if you are running out of options and still want to ensure a good meal.   

I hope this list helps!  And Happy Mother’s Day!

Yay!  It’s Friday!  And Furry Friday, to boot!  Let’s see who’s up for adoption this week. 

Meet Barney!

Barney is a Domestic Long-Hair Black and White kitten.  He is about 6 months old.  He loves to cuddle and is being cardboard scratcher trained while at the shelter.  He is doing very well at this training.  Barney is a social butterfly and really wants to find a new family soon.  He is neutered and up-to-date on his shots.  He is good with adults and children.  If you have room in your heart and extra hugs to give out for a sweet cat like Barney, contact the Fredericksburg SPCA today and set up an appointment to meet the feline adoptees! 

 

 

Meet Betty!

Betty is a 3 year old Boxer who wants a family who can spend time with her.  She is a very sweet girl.  She is a little shy, but comes out of her shell pretty quickly.  She loves to be brushed.  She needs a family who will help her adjust to her new surroundings.  Experienced dog owners would be a perfect fit for Betty.  She is good with other dogs when properly introduced.  Betty is spayed and is up-to-date on her shots.  If you think Betty would be a nice addition to your family, call the SPCA and arrange a meeting with sweet Betty! 

The Fredericksburg SPCA is located at 10809 Courthouse Road Fredericksburg, VA  22408.  Their phone number is (540)898-1500.        

Hello Everyone!  I took a little break from posting, but I’m back and excited about the New Year!  I am especially excited about all of the pet adoptions that took place over the holidays.  I hope that each new pet brings joy and laughter to your homes! 

Let’s see who’s up for adoption this week at the Fredericksburg SPCA!

Meet Callie!

 

Callie is absoluetly adorable and has a super sweet personality to match!  She loves playing with toys and really enjoys cardboard scratch pads.  Callie is energetic and likes to run around and play.  She was an only-child in her previous homes, but does get along well with other cats as long as you introduce her properly.  She is about 8 months old and good with adults and children.  Callie is up-to-date on her shots and is spayed.  Please make an appointment to see her soon!  She is too cute to pass up. 

 

 

             

Meet Chanda!

Chanda is at the Fredericksburg SPCA with her Mom, Teasure, and her sister, Smudge.  Chanda is as sweet as she looks.  She is looking for a family who would enjoy her sitting at their feet and watching tv and going on long walks together.  She is a very social dof and would love to join a family with other pups.  Chanda is 7 years old and is good with adults and children.  She is up-to-date on her shots and is spayed.  If you are looking for sugar and spice and everything nice, then Chanda is the girl for you.  Call the SPCA today and set up an appiontment to meet her. 

The Fredericksburg SPCA is located at 10809 Courthouse Road Fredericksburg, VA  22408.  Their phone number is (540)898-1500.      

The holidays are the perfect time to open your home to a new family member.  Let’s see who is up for adoption at the Fredericksburg SPCA this week!

Meet Yogi!

Yogi is Labrador retriever, rottweiler mix.  Yogi is sweet and gentle with a little bit of a shy side, but he warms up to you very quickly.  He is good with adults, children, and other dogs.  Yogi really enjoys going on walks, running and playing, and being groomed.  Yogi is about 6.5 years old and is neutered and up-to-date on his shots.  Please give the SPCA a call today and visit Yogi.  He would love a new home for the holidays!   

 

 

 

 

Meet Ringo!

Ringo is a domestic short-haired tabby.  He enjoys praise and affection.   (What cat doesn’t?)  He is an energetic 6 month old who loves to run and play, get his belly rubbed, and being groomed.  Ringo is definitely not shy and will become an instant member of your family!  If you need a new buddy in your life, Ringo may be the kitten for you.  He’s a cutie, so you better call the Fredericksburg SPCA soon to make an appointment to meet this little guy.  

 

The Fredericksburg SPCA is located at 10809 Courthouse Road Fredericksburg, VA  22408.  Their phone number is (540) 898-1500.  Make an furry friend’s Christmas wish come true! 

Small town living is always interesting and Fredericksburg, Virginia is no exception.  Fredericksburg will be holding its annual Christmas Parade this Saturday, December 5.  However, something will be noticeably different during this year’s parade.  There will be no candy thrown from floats or handed out to parade attendees.  Turkey Hill will also not be allowed to hand out their traditional ice cream sandwiches.  Why the change?  Well, it appears that City Council and the Clean & Green Commission have decided that they would rather not deal with the litter that is left behind after the parade.  So, if you or your family is expecting interaction from the floats, don’t hold your breath.  Again, nothing can be passed out to parade attendees this year.  NOTHING!

Now, I do agree that the amount of trash that can be left behind after a parade can be overwhelming.  I also know that the icy/ snowy weather during the parade of 2008 did not help matters.  But, really!?!  City Council and the Clean & Green Committee – you are stealing the spirit of the holidays!  This town has no problem wasting money and tax dollars in other areas, but a Christmas parade that is put together by a non-profit organization has become a target of their scorn.  While derelict building sit wasting away and dog poop is drying on city sidewalks, they’ve decided to concentrate on one parade that brings this city and the surrounding area together.  Is this decision a big deal?  Well, some former parade float participants seem to think so and they’ve removed their entry from the event.  And, I think quite a few attendees will be more than a little disappointed when the highlight of the evening is counting just how many baton twirlers you can fit in one parade.  (We have alot of baton twirlers in this area). 

There are other ways to combat the litter.  The city admits there are not enough trash receptacles in the downtown area.  There are definitely no recycling bins made available to the public during street events.  How about getting more volunteers to do a city clean-up effort after this type of event?  There are plenty of high school students and civic organizations looking for volunteer opportunities.  But to steal the spirit of the holidays out of the grasp of children.  It’s a shame.   What’s next?  Will all downtown events be cancelled because there is the possibility of litter and (*gasp*) fun?  I hang my head in shame for City Council.  Sorry kids, Fredericksburg is scaling the holidays back this year so they can afford to buy overpriced parcels of land along the river.