The Liz Moore Market Watch Blog

Enter to Win $1,000 in our Love Where You Live Photo Contest

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, Mar 08, 2023 @ 02:00 PM
FB post
To celebrate our 20th Anniversary, we are giving away $1,000 to 20 people throughout the year, and our love where you live photo contest gives you five opportunities to win. 
 
Local residents, enter to win by submitting a photo at www.lizmoore.com/20photocontest from March 1st - July 31st 2023 that highlights reasons to love living in your city or town. Enter as often as you'd like!
 
One winner will be selected in each of our four markets - Peninsula, Williamsburg, Richmond, and the Northern Neck - as well as one overall winner.
 
Who doesn’t love to take photos of the things that make them smile?  Whether you know your way around a sophisticated camera, or you just enjoying taking photos of your cat with your iPhone, we’d love for you to enter! 
 
 

Tags: lizlocal-NorthernNeck-livelocal, lizlocal-peninsula-livelocal, lizlocal-williamsburg-livelocal, lizlocal-richmond-livelocal

Liz Moore & Associates to Hold Charity Golf Tournament to Benefit Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Feb 23, 2023 @ 02:17 PM

golfLiz Moore & Associates will be holding their first Charity Golf Tournament as part of their year long 20th Anniversary celebration on Wednesday, May 3rd at Williamsburg National. Registration begins at 7:15 am and a shotgun start will be at 8:30 am.

All proceeds will go to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.

The cost to play is $500 per team. Food and drinks are provided. Hit a hole in one and win a car, thanks to Casey Toyota!

 Various sponsorships are available, as well as prizes, raffles, and more.

 “We are very excited about our first ever charity golf tournament! This will be a fun day for a great cause,” said Liz Moore. “We are truly blessed to have a world class facility like CHKD in our community. My son, Grayson, was in the NICU for 3 months after he was born, and we experienced firsthand the incredible care that CHKD provides.”

For more information, or to register and pay online, visit www.lizmoore.com/golf.

Tags: Community

Liz Moore & Associates Cupcake Wars 2023 Raises $20,846 for Charity

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Tue, Feb 14, 2023 @ 07:14 AM

Contact Information:

 Liz Moore
President, Liz Moore & Associates
757-645-4106
liz@lizmoore.com 

Release Date:
February 14, 2023

Liz Moore & Associates Cupcake Wars 2023 Raises $20,846 for Charity

The Annual Liz Moore Cupcake Wars Fundraiser was held on February 10, 2023 and close to $21,000 was raised in just three hours, a new company record.


The event was held in Liz Moore offices located in Newport News, Williamsburg, Richmond, and Kilmarnock. 5,500 cupcakes were baked, donated, and sold and another great turnout from clients, friends, and the community was had. 

This year’s proceeds will go to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Beacon Tree Foundation, and RAL Art Center’s smART Program for Young Artists.

“Another Cupcake Wars is in the history books! I didn’t think there was any way that we could top last year’s amazing fundraising results, but we did,” said Liz Moore.

If you missed last week’s event, you can still donate online at https://bit.ly/LMAcupcakes.

 

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Tags: About

Market Talk with Liz: January 2023

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Feb 02, 2023 @ 02:47 PM

By: Liz Moore

Welcome to Market Talk!header

I’m Liz Moore, President of Liz Moore & Associates, and today  we’re going to talk about what’s happening in the local real  estate market. This past year was a roller coaster ride, and  it has left many people questioning whether now is a good  time to move. The market is actually pretty complicated  these days, and it’s important to have a solid understanding  of what’s happening and how it will affect YOUR move.

My goal is to bring some clarity about what’s really happening in the market, and how you can leverage that to accomplish your personal real estate goals.

So, let’s get to it!


The biggest story last year has been the dramatic increase in  interest rates. While that may have been a positive influence  on our savings account ROI, it dramatically dampened the real estate market by causing prospective homebuyers to  hit the “pause” button as they watched their monthly house payments significantly increase in record time.

Graph 1

Fewer buyers in the market resulted in a slowdown in multiple offers (in many cases, but not all), which in turn slowed  down the percentage of listings that are selling above asking  price. For the first time in several years, buyers are once again  in a bargaining position to ask for closing cost assistance  from sellers, to negotiate repair requests from home inspections, and in some cases to even pay less than asking prices.

So, in a nutshell, the pendulum has swung back toward a more  balanced market. You’ll see in the chart below that offers over  asking are running less than 30% in our local market, while offers under asking have crept over 40% of all offers. It’s important to note that these trends differ based on price point and  neighborhoods, and your REALTOR can counsel you on what  is trending in the specific market you’re considering.

 

Graph 2

Asking Price Trend Peninsula

rva

Encouraging News for Buyers

What does this mean if you’re interested in buying? It’s definitely good news. Although interest rates took a big jump  last year, they have come down over a percentage point since  the peak at over 7% last Fall. Several local lenders are marketing programs offering a credit toward a later refinance if  and when rates do come down. There are also a number of  creative financing options available, like an interest rate buy  down or adjustable rate mortgages, that make ownership  in the current climate even more affordable. Your REALTOR  can review your options with you, and recommend a local lender who has such programs available.

 

Graph 3

For most, not having to pay thousands of dollars over list  price, guarantee appraisals, and waive home inspections and  repairs more than makes up for the increase in interest rates.

Perhaps even more important to weary buyers is that they  have more choices than they have had for quite some time. Not only is inventory beginning to tick up, but the pace of the market has slowed, eliminating the frenzy that has characterized the past few years. This means that buyers can consider their choices in a far more reasonable market climate.

How About Selling?

For those considering selling this year, the market is a bit  more complex. Inventory remains low (although we’re anticipating an increase in available listings as the Spring season warms up), which means sellers are still commanding strong prices, even when there aren’t bidding wars. And, for those sellers who will turn around and buy, it’s finally a market that will allow you enough breathing room to accomplish a door-to-door move.

 

Graph 4

 

My advice to sellers who are considering a move is to do it sooner rather than later. Local inventory is hovering just less than 2 months. The uptick in inventory may mean lower offer prices as as the market continues to cool.

As I said at the onset, the market is complicated these days,  and it’s more important than ever that you have an experienced professional advising you. I recommend that sellers reach out to their REALTOR for an annual “equity check-up” to review the current market value of their home. That’s a great opportunity to discuss any improvement plans to see if the cost vs. value ratio makes sense, as well as explore what's happen in the mortgage world. Knowledge is Power!

Tags: lizlocal-NorthernNeck-realestate, lizlocal-richmond-realestate, lizlocal-williamsburg-realestate, lizlocal-peninsula-realestate, MarketTalk

Annual Cupcake Wars Fundraiser February 10th, 11am-2pm

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Jan 20, 2023 @ 07:10 AM

324775551_2066784257045159_6856254078251595352_nLiz Moore & Associates is back again this year with their annual Cupcake Wars! This philanthropic event benefits several favorite local charities.

Liz Moore & Associates broke a record last year, raising a grand total of $20,000 in just 3 hours across all offices located in Richmond, Newport News, Williamsburg, and Kilmarnock. This year, they expect to have another generous turnout.

It turns out that cupcake rivalry fueled by compassion can be truly inspiring. Attend this year’s Cupcake Wars to get a look (and a taste) of all the unique, creative, and delicious cupcakes! With various themes and ideas, these cupcakes are as much of an art form as they are a tasty treat. Raising donations for charity has never been so sweet!

Stop by on Friday, February 10th from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at any of the Liz Moore & Associates locations. You can also donate online at https://bit.ly/LMAcupcakes.

2023 Charities

  • Williamsburg and Newport News proceeds will go to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.
  • Richmond proceeds will go to the Beacon Tree Foundation.
  • Kilmarnock proceeds will go to the RAL Art Center’s smART Program for Young Artists.

Tags: Community

Liz Moore & Associates Cupcake Wars: Sweet, Sugary Rivalry for a Cause

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Jan 20, 2023 @ 07:06 AM

Contact Information:

Liz Moore
President, Liz Moore & Associates
757-645-4106
liz@lizmoore.com

Release Date:
January 20, 2023

Liz Moore & Associates Cupcake Wars: Sweet, Sugary Rivalry for a Cause

Liz Moore & Associates is back again this year with their annual Cupcake Wars! This philanthropic event benefits several favorite local charities.


Liz Moore & Associates broke a record last year, raising a grand total of $20,000 in just 3 hours across all offices located in Richmond, Newport News, Williamsburg, and Kilmarnock. This year, they expect to have another generous turnout.

It turns out that cupcake rivalry fueled by compassion can be truly inspiring. Attend this year’s Cupcake Wars to get a look (and a taste) of all the unique, creative, and delicious cupcakes! With various themes and ideas, these cupcakes are as much of an art form as they are a tasty treat. Raising donations for charity has never been so sweet!

Stop by on Friday, February 10th from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at any of the Liz Moore & Associates locations. You can also donate online at https://bit.ly/LMAcupcakes.

2023 Charities

  • Williamsburg and Newport News proceeds will go to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.
  • Richmond proceeds will go to the Beacon Tree Foundation.
  • Kilmarnock proceeds will go to the RAL Art Center’s smART Program for Young Artists.

 

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Tags: About

Free Little Libraries: No Library Card Required

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, Jan 18, 2023 @ 01:54 PM

By: Lauren Cummings

There is something special about sharing books; the creases from where the previous reader was  gripped by the tension of the story, the dog  ear folds from where they had to mark their  place, or even the little notes they have left  behind as they jotted down their thoughts – these qualities don’t just add character to thefll book  itself, it creates connections between readers. We  may each experience a story differently, but it is up  to us to share them.

How It All Started

Todd Bol of Hudson, Wisconsin was inspired by the  “take a book, leave a book” projects launched by coffee  shops and community buildings. He placed a Free Little Library in front of his residence as a tribute to his mother,  who was a schoolteacher with a passion for reading. All  it took was a few people to recognize the importance of  easy access to books for everyone, and from there, a chain  of free little libraries was established across the country.  As of 2022, 150,000 mini-libraries have been registered  across 115 countries worldwide.

What is a Little Free Library?

Little free libraries are exactly as they sound, and no library card is required. Little free libraries are usually 
placed by residents of the community or by volunteers  that are passionate about spreading knowledge and 
story magic to everyone. These mini libraries symbolize community, inspiration, and support.

How Can You Start One?

Creating your little free library is easier than ever with  the help of the non-profit organization behind it all, Little  Free Library. This organization has made it possible for  people to announce their library to the public and provide  access to resources to get noticed by the community. 
1. Identify a location and steward
2. Get a library – create one yourself or buy one
on the Little Free Library’s online store.
3. Register your library – see the QR code below.
4. Set up your steward account 
5. Build community support

Building Inspiration

If you want to get creative and don’t want to purchase  a mini-library from the online store, there are plenty 
of resourceful ways to create a mini-library. We have  seen people convert old microwaves into mini-libraries,  small dog houses, storage bins, and even an old  cabinet. The one thing to consider is if the structure is 
weather-proof material so no books are ruined; a door is ideal for this requirement.

Register your library or find one near you at www.littlefreelibrary.org.

Tags: lizlocal-NorthernNeck-livelocal, lizlocal-peninsula-livelocal, lizlocal-williamsburg-livelocal, lizlocal-richmond-livelocal

Tips for Selling Your Home in the Winter

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Dec 29, 2022 @ 07:18 AM

By: Lauren Cummings

Some homeowners may argue that selling your home in the winter season is the best time of the year to be on the market. Here are a few reasons why:

• Prospective home buyers are serious, motivated, and ready to buy. winter

• Fewer choices on the market lead to less competition and receiving closer to your asking price.

• Some houses show even better over the holidays.

If you adjust your marketing approach to align with the advantages of the winter  season, the process will be exciting and inspiring for you and potential buyers. 

First Impressions Matter

• Buyers aren’t expecting to see lush green lawns in the wintertime, but lawn upkeep is a noticeable 
first impression. Trimming, edging, and discarding  leftover fall leaves and debris will go a long way 
toward impressing potential buyers.

• Outdoor lighting is especially important in the  dark winter months. Illuminate the pathway to 
your porch as a courtesy and the exterior of your  home to showcase it.

• Holiday lights are a decorative advantage of the season. Don’t hesitate to put up exterior lights;  however, leave room for potential buyers to use  their imagination – refrain from making it too 
visually cluttered.

Placing Interior Décor

• The same advice for interior holiday décor applies;  holiday décor adds to the beauty of the home, but 
keep in mind not to cover any marketable aspects that buyers will want to see, such as the stair railing. 

Creating a Warm Ambiance

• Lighting the fireplace, playing calming music, and  using subtle scents are great ways to make your home 
warm and inviting for showings.

• Adding throw pillows and throw blankets is a nice  touch and adds to the cozy ambiance. 

• Always leave the heat on for showings. Keeping  a warm temperature in the home offers a welcoming 
atmosphere and prevents chilly distractions. 

Applying this marketing strategy will compel the buyer to visualize their own space, creating excitement for the wintertime in their cozy new home.

Ready to get started?  We can help!  Click to find an agent in your area who can help you get your home sold this winter.

Tags: lizlocal-NorthernNeck-realestate, lizlocal-richmond-realestate, lizlocal-williamsburg-realestate, lizlocal-peninsula-realestate

2022 Holiday Community Events and Fundraisers at Liz Moore & Associates

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, Nov 23, 2022 @ 02:18 PM

moorethanrealestateEach holiday season, our offices do a number of things to serve our communities, and this year is no different.  Here are the 2022 community initiatives at Liz Moore & Associates:

Newport News
This year, our Newport News office has organized a Giving Tree to help a local family in need who has recently suffered loss due to a house fire.  If you would like to help, stop by our office at 11801 Canon Blvd., grab a tag off of the tree, and return the item wrapped with the tag.

Kilmarnock
Bring your furry family members by our office at 276 N. Main Street in Kilmarnock for photos with Santa Paws. New items for cats and dogs for local animal rescues and shelters will be collected.

Richmond
Stop by our Richmond office at 14061 Midlothian Turnpike on December 11th, 11-2pm for photos will Santa.  Donations for Toys for Tots are being accepted at the event.

Williamsburg
Our Williamsburg office is collecting items for residents at Dominion Village.  Bring your new, wrapped, and labeled gift to our office at 5350 Discovery Park Blvd.  A list of requested items can be found at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D4FAAA722AAFD0-angel

In addition to Dominion Village, our Williamsburg office is also collecting food items for House of Mercy.  Their pantry stocks are extremely low, and they’re having to cut folks down to half the amount of food.  Donations can be drooped off at our office between 9 and 5.

We'd love your help in serving our communities this holiday season!  Email info@lizmoore.com with questions.

 

 

Tags: Community, lizlocal-NorthernNeck-community, lizlocal-Peninsula-community, lizlocal-richmond-community, lizlocal-williamsburg-community

Annual Santa Paws Event Taking Place on December 3rd at Liz Moore Kilmarnock Office

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Mon, Nov 21, 2022 @ 02:04 PM

Santa Paws 3One of the year's favorite events, Santa Paws, is back again and taking place on December 3rd, 2022 from 10-3pm.  Bring your pets by the by Liz Moore & Associates' Northern Neck office on Main Street in Kilmarnock for a free photo with Santa Paws by Coastal Imagery.

Donations of NEW cat and dog supplies will be accepted for local animal shelters and rescues.

Questions about this event? Email info@lizmoore.com.

 

 

 

Tags: Community, lizlocal-NorthernNeck-community