Dale Repshas, Realtor

Considering selling your home yourself without an agent? I'm not trying to just "sell" to you, but here are a few considerations that may make you reconsider:

🏠 Agents have marketing power. We're able to list your home online and provide a reach that you simply can't by selling your home on your own. Beyond the online presence, we use print marketing, a database of our brokerage, and a long list of clientele to get your property in front of the most potential buyers possible.

🏠 The value you place on your home may not be the same as the true market value. In fact, you may sell your home for LESS than it's worth by selling it yourself. Even if you list it more than what a Realtor would recommend, you are putting it at risk of staying on the market too long and going stale and leaving potential buyers to ask, "Why hasn't it sold? What's wrong with it?" If you list it too low, you are leaving money on the table too.

🏠 We've seen crazy real estate situations. You and I both hope your real estate experience is simple, but the reality is that sometimes transactions are complicated. In those cases, it's extremely beneficial to have a professional on your side.

When it comes to home selling, there's a lot to consider. Your Realtor should make you feel like you're getting VALUE from them, not just writing a door opener a check. If you've got questions, I'm here. Message me or email me at [email protected] so we can discuss what it really means to sell your home for top dollar.

It's always fun to "cook up" new ideas for seasonal gifts! Happy Father's Day to my awesome clients! I hope you all have a wonderful Father's Day weekend!

Did you know? June is Great Outdoors Month! 🌿🌳 I am celebrating by spending a lot of time on my bike, taking early morning walks, dining outside, golfing with my amazing husband, and helping clients all in between!

I'd love to hear more outdoor favorites: tell me your favorite ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Northern Virginia!

Avoid Buyer's Remorse -- it DOES happen in real estate! In a low inventory market, it's so crucial to make smart decisions to avoid buyer's remorse.

Here are some of my top tips to help you navigate the process:

◽️ Know your priorities: List must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
◽️ Get pre-approved: Strengthen your offer and understand your budget
◽️ Do your research: Investigate neighborhoods and amenities
◽️ Balance speed and caution: Act quickly, but don't rush decisions
◽️ Get an inspection: Always check for hidden issues
◽️ Think long-term: Ensure the home fits your future plans
◽️ Trust your gut and agent: Rely on intuition and professional advice

It's time to find a home you love without regrets in this market -- and it IS possible. I'm here to help—reach out via my messages or email [email protected] to start your home-buying journey!

I am not where I am today without my fantastic clients. Buyers, sellers, referrals even to other markets -- I do it all! Thankful for this testimonial from my former clients! You are the best!

I'm curious. What is your motivation to become a homeowner??

According to the National Association of Realtors, here are some of the most common reasons people say they want to take the plunge and get the keys!

🏠 It's a historically appreciating asset.
🏠 The tax benefits can be incredible.
🏠 Predictable monthly payments mean less financial worry.
🏠 You can decorate any way you want and choose upgrades that suit you.
🏠 Staying in one neighborhood for several years allows you and your family time to build long-lasting relationships within the community.

Whether it's a memory maker or a financial legacy that's motivating you to buy, I really want to be able to help make those real estate dreams a reality. Message me here or email me today at [email protected] so we can find a time to get started.

Are you still waiting for mortgage interest rates to drop?

Here's the thing: You simply cannot ""time the market' when it comes to real estate. When rates drop, prices will increase. Oh, and home prices haven't decreased as interest rates have risen. You can refinance your home that you purchased at a lower price when rates drop instead of waiting for them to drop on the sidelines and being locked in at a higher cost for your home.

If you want genuine, unbiased, and honest advice, I hope you know that I am always here to help answer ANY questions you might have about homeownership with zero pressure. Email me at [email protected] today so we can find a time to get a cup of coffee and discuss the realities of becoming a homeowner in today's market.

Did you know? It's National Trails Week! If you're like me and prefer your trails on two wheels, here are a few Virginia biking trails I've been on or heard great things about!

Whether it is 5 minutes away in Reston or 4 hours away in Southern Virginia, Virginia has SO much to offer you with things to do!

🚲 High Bridge Trail State Park
🚲 Virginia Capital Trail
🚲 New River Trail State Park
🚲 Virginia Creeper Trail
🚲 Mount Vernon Trail

Oh, and P.S. -- If you want to find more places to bike, I recommend this article: www.virginia.org/blog/post/bicycle.

No, you're not imagining things. ⬇️

Brand new homes are popping up all over Northern Virginia. If you've been considering new construction, here are a few things to consider:

1. One consideration in homeownership is those high dollar costs that come along the way with repairs. With a new construction home, these repairs are years--sometimes decades--down the line.

2. Historic homes have their own charm, but new construction homes offer an intentional modern design with floor plans specifically designed for the way we live in our homes today.

3. With some new-construction homes, you can choose everything from appliances to paint colors, tailoring the home to suit your needs and preferences.

4. Many new homes have sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. This means you can be assured that your utility bills are lower!

5. It's often a misconception that a new-construction home is more expensive. The truth? Some builders offer financial incentives, including flexible financing options, to encourage buyers to purchase. These incentives — especially if they get the buyer a lower interest rate — could make a new construction home more affordable in the long run.

If you've been considering buying a new construction home, let's find a time to discuss further. Message me here or email me at [email protected]!

Did you know? At 78%, Baby Boomers have the highest rate of homeownership, and today, 39% of home purchases and 52% of home sales are made by Baby Boomers. As Boomers move, downsize and age over the next decade, it’s estimated more than 9 million homes will come onto the market, according to Freddie Mac.

There is often quite a lot of focus on first-time homebuyers and sellers, but the truth is if Realtors do not consider the unique and ever-changing needs of the Baby Boomer generation, we are leaving behind even more generations in the American dream of homebuying by doing so.

Often, the greatest equity for retirees lies in their home. You need a Realtor who is ready to navigate you in this pivotal part of life and experienced in the specific needs of Boomers in home buying and selling.

No matter what cycle of life you're in, I'm here to help with your real estate needs. Message me here or email me directly at [email protected] today so we can discuss what it really takes to make your real estate goals a reality.

On this Memorial Day, I am taking a moment to honor and remember all the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and country. I will always be grateful. Thank you.

I love where I live! There is always something to do here in Reston, Virginia, but I thought I'd share a few tried and true things to do that I just know you're going to love.

💗 Have you been to the Van Gogh Bridge? It's such a hidden gem on the walk around the lake at Lake Anne.
💗 The weather is incredible now! Soak it all in at our farmers market!
💗 Whether you're a new resident or have been here your whole life, make sure you visit the Reston Museum at least once.
💗 Do yourself a favor and spend the day on Lake Fairfax. It's so calming and beautiful
💗 When was the last time you went to the zoo? Spend an afternoon at NOVA Wild!

What's your favorite local hot spot? I would love to know any special places I should explore in the comments below.

Even in today's real estate atmosphere, it's still important to present your home in its best possible light to get top dollar. Here are three reasons staging matters when it comes to selling your home:

1️⃣ It can define "awkward" spaces. Sometimes, a home has unique areas that are great for future buyers to utilize, but they can't visualize how unless you show them.

2️⃣ Speed! Did you know? On average, staged homes sell around 30% faster than non-staged homes. Whether it's getting buyers to daydream, helping them see that, YES, their king-sized bed would fit perfectly in the owner's suite, or simply giving a 'Welcome Home' energy, staged homes have a history of selling quicker than their empty counterparts.

3️⃣ It's a great return on investment! Staged homes on the market sold for 25% more than homes without staging. (Realtor Magazine)

Thinking about selling this summer? I'd love to help you make a top-dollar sale! Let's find a time to go through your home so we can make an attainable game plan for you and your personal goals when it comes to selling.

Email me at [email protected] or message me here so we can get started.

These weekend destinations are four hours or less from Northern Virginia, and are sure to make those upcoming summer weekends memory-makers!

Let me know: what spots did I miss? I love how many fun options there are from Reston, VA -- from mountains to lakes to the ocean, there is something for everyone!

Cheers to an incredible Friday and weekend, everyone! 🤍

Before I was a Realtor, I knew a lot about what makes a home. I actually have twenty years of experience in the Building Materials Industry! This gives me a unique insight into what it REALLY takes to build a home but I know a thing or two about all those things that make a home beyond the beams and foundation.

I've lived in Reston since 1986 and have always loved being a part of my community. I was a PTA Board member, a High School Booster President, a soccer team manager of two teams, and the director of Spinning at two different area health clubs. I've made this area home. And you know what? I've helped countless people call this area home too. I just want to help my clients love living here as much as I have for decades.

If you're looking for a Realtor who values HOME, email me at [email protected] so we can discuss what it really means to make the Reston area where you can plant roots.

Here's the real side of real estate: Not only does spring bring out beautiful flowers, warmer temperatures, and longer days, it also brings out home buyers on the hunt!

If you are a homebuyer or even a homeowner considering selling it is likely that you've heard the term "affordability" in social media and real estate news articles. Between rising prices and higher interest rates, it is indeed true affordability is at a low that we haven't seen in quite some time.

Affordability is down. Regarding wages, mortgage rates, and home prices there are some signs that things might be getting better, but we do have a way to go. When rates decrease, sidelined buyers will come back to the market making an already competitive market even more competitive.

It's crazy and a little gnarly out there for buyers but long term, homeownership is worth the short-term pain of lower affordability when you consider the long-term gains (both financial/equity and emotional). If you can afford it, marry the house and date that interest rate!

I can help buyers navigate this current market and I can help sellers maximize their return when selling. So, if you or someone you know is considering selling or buying I can help and am here to answer your questions and concerns. Simply message me here or email me directly at [email protected] to get started.

Happy (early) Mother's Day! I had so much fun stopping by to see my awesome mom clients this week! Mom is indeed spelled WOW upside down!

Let's just call it like it is. Moving is STRESSFUL. Between the best way to organize your assets, finding new homes for items you won't be taking with you, learning the best plan for your finances after selling your current home, discovering what you truly want your next chapter to feel like, and about a thousand other things, it can feel overwhelming.

Luckily, you've got me!

I work with buyers and sellers in every phase of life--from first-time homebuyers to downsizers. I'm not just here to put a For Sale sign in the lawn. It's my job as your Realtor to help you understand simple and effective ways we can make your home shine, understand an approachable game plan toward your real estate goals, and make the process as fun as possible along the way.

Simply put, I'm here to be your advocate. Email me at [email protected] so we can get started today.

Don't forget your mom this upcoming Mother's Day Weekend! Here are five ways to prepare for Mother's Day (It's the 12th, by the way! Mark your calendar!) here in Northern Virginia:

🌸 Looking for a place to get a lovely bouquet for mom? Try Bloom's Reston Floral.
🌸 Isn't she sweet? Get your mother some special chocolates and a bottle of wine at Chesapeake Chocolates!
🌸 Give her an afternoon she won't forget! Book a reservation for Entyse Afternoon Tea at the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons.
🌸 Do you know what she really wants? To relax. Book her a treatment at Lansdowne Resort and Spa.
🌸 Celebrating Mother's Day with little ones? Take them to Kiln & Custard to share some ice cream and make a special something for mom!

Do you have an idea for mom that you just can't wait to share? Let us know in the comments! I would love to get a list going of ways we can support local businesses and spread the love this May!

Yesterday was a stunning day to get out and enjoy nature here in Northern Virginia! This is a field of buttercups. When I was a kid we held the buttercups to our chins. If our chins became yellow it meant we liked butter!

Well, yeah, of course, my chin turned yellow. Kerrygold yellow. 😉 Happy Friday, everyone!

Clients of the Month! ✨ Please meet longtime clients and friends Ginger and Richard! This beautiful couple wandered into an open house I was having several years ago.

The house wasn't right for them but it turned out that we were right for each other! They bought a beautiful home with me in Reston and have referred several clients to me since. We just clicked. When you know, you know....I KNOW that I love and appreciate these wonderful people and I am grateful that they stopped by that open house so long ago!

I'm extremely proud to have held my real estate license at for decades now. Why?

🏠 They're technology-driven, with a focus on what benefits their agents and clients best.

🏠 They have an exceptional global reputation. That means I can help you find a quality agent no matter where you move!

🏠 They have the right focus on values. In fact, they’ve committed to supporting charitable groups in three main areas: housing, wellness, and the military.

I could go on and on, but at the end of the day, I know my decision to stay with Long & Foster has been the right choice for my clients and my family. If you're ready to work with a seasoned professional or need help finding one wherever you live, message me here so we can talk further!

Smile! You made it to Friday! 😁 Before the weekend hits, I want to talk real estate based on questions I've been getting lately about interest rates and home buying right now. ⬇️

If you're looking at those rising interest rates in fear, I think it's time for a quick perspective shift. Here's why there is historically no such thing as a "bad time" to enter the real estate market:

🏠 Refinancing when rates drop means you have less competition today. And guess what? Even as rates have risen, home prices have NOT dropped. That means you're wasting time AND money.

🏠 Appreciate the appreciation! You cannot...I repeat...CANNOT time the market, but you can invest in time. The sooner you become a homeowner, the longer you are able to enjoy the appreciating asset you've purchased.

🏠 Think you need a 20% downpayment to become a homeowner? This simply is NOT true! There are so many different options for downpayments.

Let's discuss the reality of this spring real estate market further. Message me here or email me at [email protected] so we can find a time to sip something with ice in it, enjoy this weather, and dive deeper into the potential homeownership opportunities you can take advantage of!

Thank you for making March a memorable one! I loved working with my awesome clients to help them achieve their real estate goals! How can I help you with the buying or selling of property in the beautiful Northern Virginia region?!

From estates to condos, I do it all, and I'd be honored to work with you!

Here are 5 big home trends I'm seeing here in Northern Virginia right now:

🏠 Better not bigger: buyers are not always looking for the BIGGEST home. Rather, they're looking for the best floor plan, the best use of space, and the best design.

🏠 So long neutrals! Intentional use of colors, patterns, and other design elements are major selling features. Gone are the days of all-neutral spaces to sell!

🏠 What's the most popular architectural design style nowadays? Midcentury modern is the top trending style, with 56% expressing a preference for this aesthetic. Contemporary architecture closely follows at 37%, while ranch-style homes appeal to 31% of homebuyers according to Architectural Digest.

🏠 So long shiplap, hello wainscoting! This classic and timeless home element is trending like crazy!

🏠 While accent walls truly shined during the pandemic, entire wallpapered rooms is now the popular trend homebuyers appreciate!

I'm curious about what home trends you're loving lately. Let me know in the comments below!

Oh, and if you're curious about small-but-mighty changes you can make to your own home that will make sellers swoon, be sure to message me here!

When it comes to real estate, it’s imperative to work with someone you trust. In this ever-changing market, it's especially critical.

When I read these kind words, it keeps me motivated as I work with my clients navigating this spring real estate market in NoVa! Thank you to my incredible clients!

Thinking of taking the plunge and getting into the real estate market? Here are three questions I've been getting from buyers lately:

1. "I heard the inventory is low...is it hard to find a home?"

The best way I can fully explain this is this quote from Realtor.com: “There were nearly 15% more homes for sale in February than a year earlier. That alone could jolt the housing market a bit if more “For Sale” signs continue to appear. However, the nation is still suffering from a housing shortage even with all of that new inventory.” So, YES you can find a home that suits your wants and needs, but there certainly is no surplus of homes available nowadays!

2. "Should I wait for mortgage rates to drop?"

I'm a firm believer in trying to time the market. The truth is when rates drop, housing prices likely will rise. There’s always the refinance option if mortgage rates are lower in the future. Date the rate. Marry the house.

3. "How much should I save for a downpayment?"

There are so many first-time homebuyer mortgage opportunities that can allow you to become a homeowner for 3% (or less!) down. My advice? Talk to a lender before assuming you need to save 20% of a home purchase price.

If you're thinking of buying a home, I would imagine you have many questions. Call me at 703-408-2626 or email me at [email protected] so we can find a time to grab a cup of coffee and discuss every aspect of becoming a homeowner."

Are you in a situation where you need to sell quickly? Whatever the reason for the big move, there is no reason we can't take advantage of the small amount of time before we list your home to make it really shine on the market. Here are three simple things that take minimal time but make a huge impact on potential buyers:

1. Let's go through your home and figure out what needs to be touched up. Some Realtors want to paint every surface of your home a neutral color, but we just don't have time for that! We can, instead, figure out the biggest impact areas for the highest return.

2. Does a space in your home feel dated? We can modernize the entire area simply by swapping light fixtures, changing cabinet pulls, or adding some modern staging. This easy and cost-effective swaps fix can change the entire perspective on a space and increase the potential for buyers to see your home as their own.

3. You knew this advice was coming...it's time to declutter. Since your move is going to be quick, let's walk through your home together and discuss which areas are best to tackle first in case you need a little time between when your home is listed on the market and when you move to tackle the rest.

Moving is a big deal. Selling your home is a big deal. Add a short timeline, and it's only natural to feel panic. Don't worry, though! I've got years of expertise and I'm able to work with you to make this stressful process as seamless as possible.

Let's get together and discuss a customized game plan for you and your home. Email me at [email protected] today so we can work together to sell your home swiftly and for a good price!

Thank you so much to my incredible clients for these kind words. I loved having the opportunity to work with you!

Ready to get into this spring real estate market? Call me at 703-408-2626 or email me at [email protected] to discuss how we can embrace the opportunities for you and your family here in NoVa!

Are you catching the Spring Cleaning bug? It's going around! Start here to spruce up your space! ⬇️

Whether you're decluttering to make space for your family or preparing for the sale of a home, I hope this list helps! While decluttering is a great first step, there's a lot to consider when it comes to getting your home market-ready.

Email me at [email protected] so we can work together to create a personalized game plan to help your home shine in this spring market!

P.S. - Save this post for later -- it's a helpful one! 💯