Rod Eller Named as Regional Manager in Southwest Virginia

Eller now oversees the company’s Southwest Virginia, Triangle and Triad, North Carolina regions

Real estate veteran Rod Eller has been named as Long & Foster Real Estate’s Regional Manager in Southwest Virginia. Eller already leads Long & Foster’s Triad location, as well as Fonville Morisey Realty, its brand in North Carolina, and he will take on these new responsibilities, bringing together the two regions under a single leadership team.

In Southwest Virginia, Eller will be responsible for operations and business development, working closely with the company’s leadership teams and agents in ensuring the ongoing success of the firm and its clients.

“With the Triad and Triangle market’s close proximity to Long & Foster’s Southwest Virginia region, Rod understands the market there – he’s the perfect fit to deliver the same success to the agents and teams there as he’s done in North Carolina,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “The positive attitude and proactive approach he brings to the business will be invaluable in helping area consumers and our agents.”

Eller has an extensive background in real estate leadership, having worked in the business for over three decades. At Fonville Morisey, he oversees eight offices in the Triangle and Triad areas, helping the company and its agents to grow their businesses and achieve further success.

“I’m honored to have been named to this position, and I’m excited to better connect the tremendous resources and talented individuals we have across the Southwest Virginia region, helping our team learn and share their expertise to even better support our area buyers and sellers,” said Eller.

Prior to joining Long & Foster, Eller served as senior vice president of sales for several Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices affiliates in the Triangle, Triad and Charlotte, N.C., areas. In that capacity, he managed multiple sales offices, supporting individual leadership teams in recruitment, retention, business development and sales productivity. Eller also assisted his brokerage in mergers and acquisitions, process and system development and strategic planning.

In addition to his vast real estate experience, Eller worked with Roberts Business Group, a coaching and consulting firm as a senior consultant, helping organizations and individuals improve performance and engagement in the areas of leadership, sales and customer service.

To learn more about Long & Foster, visit longandfoster.com.

Long & Foster’s The Yeatman Group Represents Covenant Building Design at Richmond Homearama 2023

Long & Foster Real Estate is pleased to announce that The Yeatman Group is representing Covenant Building Design in the Richmond Homearama 2023. Covenant Building Design, a locally owned top builder, is known for their customized approach for a seamless home building experience.

“We are very excited that The Yeatman Group will be representing Covenant Building Design in this year’s Homearama, said Dawn Bradley, senior regional vice president of Long & Foster’s Richmond and Charlottesville regions. “Kyle and his team are true professionals and very knowledgeable in the Richmond area’s robust new construction market as well as the resale market.”

The award-winning Yeatman Group, led by Kyle Yeatman is affiliated with Long & Foster’s Centerpointe Midlothian, Virginia office. Yeatman was the No. 1 agent in all of Long & Foster for 2022 and the No. 1 agent in the first quarter of 2023.

The Richmond Homearama is a single-site show sponsored by the Home Building Association of Richmond featuring five fully furnished custom homes showcasing the finest in new home designs. This year’s Homearama takes place at Henrico’s premiere community, GreenGate. The vibrant, urban community, situated on 75 acres will offer over 270 luxury homes at completion with shopping, restaurants, walking trails, a clubhouse, pool, parks and convenient access to interstate highways.

“Kyle’s background in the construction industry makes him well-suited to represent such a prestigious homebuilder,” said Beth Dalton, manager of Long & Foster’s Centerpointe Midlothian office. “The Yeatman Group and Covenant Building Design are certainly a winning combination for this year’s show.”

Richmond Homearama runs through June 18, with special events held on Wednesday evenings. Tickets can be purchased at Richmond Homearama. Other local builders that are participating in this year’s Homearama include Biringer Builders, Eagle Construction of VA, River City Custom Homes, and Southern Traditions.

Long & Foster is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties.

For more information about Long & Foster, visit LongandFoster.com.

Lynn Kemmerer to Lead Long & Foster’s Professional Development

Well-respected real estate coach and leader brings two decades of experience to her new position

Long & Foster Real Estate has named Lynn Kemmerer as its new Director of Professional Development. In this role, Kemmerer will oversee the company’s award-winning training programs for its sales associates, ensuring they deliver quality courses and education that support Long & Foster agents in building productive, profitable and enjoyable businesses.

“Lynn is a well-respected real estate leader and coach. Her responsiveness and genuine devotion to her agents are already well known amongst Long & Foster’s Northern Virginia team, and I’m confident that the rest of our organization will soon see the tremendous benefit of her commitment to our associates’ success,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate.

Kemmerer started her real estate career almost two decades ago as a sales associate at Long & Foster’s Alexandria office. She later worked with the firm’s Arlington and Great Falls offices as well. She left Long & Foster for a short period, joining a small franchise brokerage in D.C. There, she took on the role of supervising broker and instructor—her first foray in real estate management and training. She excelled in the role and was recruited back to Long & Foster in 2018, joining its Reston office.

As sales manager in Reston, Kemmerer supported the office in training new associates and coaching agents from foundation to mastery levels. She also mentored several associates, helping them grow their sales. In addition, she built her own successful real estate sales business over her career, so she understands the industry first-hand.

“It’s my passion to help Realtors build their businesses, teaching them how to leverage Long & Foster’s affiliated partners (mortgage, title, insurance, inspection and moving) for a competitive advantage and the importance of always doing the right thing for their clients, families and brokerage community,” said Kemmerer. “I’m humbled by the opportunity to do what I love—now for all of Long & Foster.”

Prior to her real estate career, Kemmerer worked in training and project management with a Northern Virginia-based government contractor. During her 12-year tenure, she was responsible for a variety of training initiatives—developing and deploying courses to teach technology, creating a comprehensive training center and leading training courses for a wide range of users.

To learn more, visit longandfoster.com.

Exquisite Waterfront Estate with Historic Homes, Vineyard, and Event Venue Now Available

Amazing property has everything – including breathtaking views of the Elk River

This remarkable property offers discerning buyers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a secluded waterfront estate. Nestled on a rolling green hill, this magnificent property features a gracious Georgian Manor House, multiple guest houses, barns, a working winery, versatile event venues and plenty of history. With panoramic views of the Elk River and the Chesapeake Bay, this property is a true haven of tranquility and elegance.

The residence is listed for $6.8M by Mary Beth Paganelli at the Fine Homes Annapolis office of Long & Foster Real Estate, exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. The nearly 80-acre property is currently being sold as a package with two adjoining lots, offering buyers a chance to expand their domain and own a grand total of 150 acres of pristine land for $7.8 million.

Located at 88 Rivers Edge Road in North East, Maryland, this amazing property is conveniently situated, just an hour north of Baltimore and is easily accessible from Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Wilmington, Delaware and New York City. Known to locals as “The Eagle has Landed”, the estate is the site where during the Revolutionary War, Sir William Howe, leading 15,000 British troops and 300 vessels, landed on August 25, 1777.

“Whether you are seeking a family estate with ample space for everyone or considering investment opportunities such as vacation rentals, a corporate retreat, equestrian center, wellness center, or a special event/wedding venue, this property offers endless possibilities,” said Paganelli. “Its current popular wedding venues and wine tasting facilities provide turnkey businesses for immediate income.”

The centerpiece of this extraordinary estate is the Manor House, a timeless architectural gem built in 1931. Boasting five bedrooms, three full bathrooms and three half bathrooms, this nearly 5,000 square foot stately residence offers a serene retreat with its high coffered ceilings, custom woodwork, hardwood flooring, fireplaces, and oversized windows that flood the rooms with natural light. The Manor House captures the essence of its period, exuding grandeur and sophistication at every turn.

Adding to the allure of this property is the charming Cape Cod beach house, a delightful two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence designed to capture the spirit of coastal living. With cathedral ceilings and walls adorned with driftwood, this beach house offers a light and airy ambiance, accentuated by oversized windows that provide stunning views of the private sandy beach and the 300-foot private pier extending into the water, offering a tranquil spot for fishing, relaxation and enjoyment.

The two updated and tastefully appointed farmhouses are ideal for those who appreciate the charm of country living. With a perfect balance of comfort and character, one farmhouse features a kitchen, dining area, living room, and two upper-level bedrooms. The other farmhouse is designed for entertainment, with an open bar, a spacious living room with a decorative fireplace, and two upper-level bedrooms. Both farmhouses offer inviting outdoor spaces with brick patios, perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying picturesque surroundings.

For quiet time or to work remotely, the stone cottage, which is currently used as an office, adds an additional touch of charm and versatility.

Wine enthusiasts and entrepreneurs will appreciate the stunning 14-acre working winery, which creates an enchanting backdrop for this remarkable property. The fully renovated barn serves as the wine-tasting room and special event venue, providing a delightful space for gatherings and celebrations. Currently open to the public, Blue Elk Vineyard presents an excellent investment opportunity for those seeking to embrace the world of viticulture.

Weddings and special events will be remembered at Bohemia Overlook, offering three unique venues on the property – the barn, the manor or the incredible, large gleaming white tent that can accommodate 300 guests who will enjoy commanding water views.

Learn more about 88 Rivers Edge Road by clicking here.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information about Long & Foster, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Named Best Real Estate Firm in Central Virginia by Readers of Virginia Living Magazine

Long & Foster Real Estate’s Richmond region has been named Best Real Estate firm in Central Virginia by the readers of Virginia Living magazine in its annual ‘Best Of’ awards.

Readers of Virginia Living nominated their favorite local businesses in several categories. Those with the most nominations made it to the online voting round, which took place this spring. The winners of this year’s The Best of Central Virginia awards will be published in the June issue of Virginia Living magazine and the digital version can be found on their website later this summer.

“We couldn’t be more honored to have been chosen as best real estate company in Central Virginia by the readers of Virginia Living magazine,” said Dawn Bradley, senior vice president & regional manager of Long & Foster’s Richmond and Charlottesville regions. “Our agents are passionate about what they do, and this award is a testament to our commitment to provide home buyers and sellers with the best service possible.”

Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate, added, “It’s because of the dedication of our Long & Foster agents that we were able to earn this honor, and we’re proud of each and every one of them for their hard work and service. For more than 50 years, Long & Foster’s reputation of honesty, integrity and best-in-class customer service has made us a leader in the real estate industry.”

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America.

To learn more about Long & Foster Real Estate, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Opens New Office in D.C.’s Navy Yard

Sleek, modern new office located in the popular and historic Navy Yard

Long & Foster Real Estate has opened a new location in D.C.’s popular Navy Yard community. The office is located at 1300 4^th St., S.E., Suite 110, in Washington, D.C.

The first major residential real estate office in the neighborhood, Long & Foster’s office features a modern and light-filled design. It consists of space for agents, a training center for new Realtors and offices for other team members, including Long & Foster affiliates, Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, and RGS Title.

“Long & Foster is excited to be part of the Navy Yard community,” said Kenneth Fagan, senior vice president and regional manager of the Washington, D.C. and Montgomery County regions. “While other companies are scaling back, Long & Foster is continuing to grow. Our new location will allow us to provide best-in-class customer service to our clients in the Navy Yard, Capitol Riverfront, Anacostia, Congress Heights and Capitol Hill.”

The office will be managed by Yanira Rodriguez, who was the managing broker of Long & Foster’s Capitol Hill office. Rodriguez has been a part of the Long & Foster family for more than 20 years. A native of the D.C. metro region, Rodriguez first joined Long & Foster as an administrative assistant. In that role, she learned the ins-and-outs of the business before earning her real estate license. For several years, she served as the technology trainer in the D.C. region, teaching agents how to leverage the company-provided tools to grow and develop their businesses.

Agents, staff, the leadership team and members of Long & Foster’s affiliated companies plan to gather for a grand opening celebration at a future date.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Coastal Luxury at its Finest: Exquisite Home for Sale in Avalon, N.J.

Offers a pool, ocean views and plenty of space for family and friends

Experience the pinnacle of coastal living with this magnificent custom-built home that offers a harmonious blend of elegance, panoramic ocean views, and unparalleled comfort. Nestled in the enchanting town of Avalon, New Jersey, this property is a true masterpiece designed by the renowned architects at OSK Design Partners (John Oliveri, Dan Shousky, and Paul Kiss).

The residence is listed by Barbara Roff of the Avalon office of Long & Foster Real Estate, exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. Located at 65 E. 10^th Street in Avalon, the home has six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and is being offered for $7.775 million.

“This stunning coastal retreat offers every comfort and convenience you could desire in a luxury beach home, from the gourmet kitchen to the private pool and outdoor living space,” said Roff. “It is the perfect place to relax and unwind in style, while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Avalon and the Jersey Shore – and it could be yours, just in time for summer.”

Entering this beautifully furnished residence, you’ll be instantly captivated by its spaciousness, soothing color palette of blues, creams, and whites, and the abundant natural light that permeates every corner. The thoughtfully planned layout incorporates a 45-degree angle alignment for all east-facing doors and windows, ensuring maximum appreciation of the awe-inspiring ocean and inlet views from multiple vantage points.

You’ll greet your guests in style in the foyer, adorned with a mesmerizing 265-gallon saltwater coral reef tank. This floor features three ensuite bedrooms, a generously sized family room boasting custom built-in cabinetry, an under-counter refrigerator, and sink. The family room seamlessly transitions to a covered deck, revealing a stunning in-ground pool, a charming cabana, and a detached garage. Adding convenience and luxury, an elevator transports you to each level of the home.

On the second level, the main living area unfolds with an expansive open floor plan, boasting hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and vast windows that frame the captivating ocean vistas. This level encompasses an expansive family room, a comfortable living room, and an elegant dining room.

The gourmet kitchen is a culinary enthusiast’s dream, featuring top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, two dishwashers, and custom cabinetry. Completing this floor are two ensuite bedrooms and a powder room, ensuring ample space for family and guests.

The crowning jewel of this exceptional home awaits on the third floor, where the owner’s suite spans nearly 1200 square feet, occupying the entire level. The owner’s suite epitomizes relaxation and opulence, boasting two private balconies offering breathtaking ocean views – the ideal place to enjoy morning coffee or yoga. This suite also features a generous sitting area with a fireplace and TV, leading to a covered deck with panoramic ocean vistas.

The property also includes a standalone garage, equipped with electricity, pool equipment, two freezers and a long, built-in bench, spanning 280 square feet. On the poolside of the garage is an 80-square-foot cabana with a tile floor, custom mural, microwave, under-counter refrigerator, granite counter, sink, three electric window awnings, and a granite outdoor shelf for serving snacks or drinks to guests. The backyard pool area is adorned with a custom trellis, creating an enchanting oasis.

A few of the other outstanding features of this home include six expansive, covered and uncovered mahogany decks, three Heat & Glo fireplaces with remotes, two 265-gallon saltwater fish tanks, ten TVs, an outdoor shower, and a backup generator.

Learn more about 65 E. 10^th Street by clicking here. For more information about Long & Foster, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America.

Spring/Summer 2023 Luxury Homes Magazine Celebrates Wellness and Sustainability

Long & Foster Real Estate, an exclusive affiliate of Forbes Global Properties, has released its spring/summer 2023 edition of Luxury Homes magazine, the company’s prestigious luxury lifestyle publication. In it, you’ll find a collection of exclusive editorial content on luxury living and real estate, as well as a spotlight on some of the latest high-end homes for sale with the Long & Foster’s team.

This issue focuses on wellness and sustainability, two closely intertwined concepts. “To achieve true wellness, we must prioritize sustainability and take care of our planet – this means making conscious choices about the products we use, the food we eat, and the resources we consume,” said Kathleen Wilks, chief marketing officer of The Long & Foster Companies. “By prioritizing sustainability, we can create a healthier, more vibrant world for ourselves and future generations.”

You’ll read about the wellness benefits of a cold plunge bath – a practice that has been used for centuries to improve wellbeing and many people still swear by it today. If cold plunge baths are not your thing, you can browse our article about AMAN, the New York City retreat where the ultra-affluent rebalance and reset their lives amid the calm and tranquility of a lush green space.

To incorporate a sense of well-being and comfort into your interior design, read our exclusive interview with Paris-based designer, Stephanie Coutos. She discusses how she keeps spaces fresh, while bringing eclectic luxury and a global outlook to design and décor.

The growing interest among luxury homebuyers to be at one with nature has them including cutting-edge eco-friendly features in their search criteria. Read about how design firms like Karl Langerfeld are partnering with developers and architects to create Costa del Sol, a sustainable luxury community in Southern Spain.

As always, we showcase the finest homes in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, presented to you by our agents. We hope that this magazine inspires, educates and provides you with the resources you need to make your real estate dreams a reality.

Luxury Homes is distributed to subscribers of The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post with direct delivery to homeowners across key luxury markets to garner an even wider audience. The magazine is also available online.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Donna Higgs Named Managing Broker of Long & Foster’s Ellicott City Office

Long & Foster Real Estate has announced Donna Higgs has become the managing broker of its Ellicott City, Maryland sales office. Higgs most recently served as a manager in the office of a competing brokerage.

“Donna has a track record of successful leadership and recruiting,” said Cindy Ariosa, Long & Foster’s senior vice president and regional manager of the Baltimore, Western Maryland and Coastal Regions. “She has an agent-first mentality, so she is a perfect fit for Long & Foster.”

Higgs has over 20 years of management experience in sales strategy and business development. She has a background in sales, marketing, and management across the real estate, construction, and wellness industries. Her people-first philosophy combined with a vast knowledge of business strategy, team leadership, and client experience gives her a unique understanding of what it takes to create a culture that is based on building and cultivating relationships.

“Giving agents the tools and support they need to build and continue to grow their book of business combined with collaboration and innovation are the cornerstones of success,” said Higgs. “I look forward to recruiting, training and developing the Ellicott City agents to consistently exceed sales goals and provide exceptional customer service.”

Long & Foster Real Estate, an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties, is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Experience Long & Foster’s New Bethesda Destination

Trophy-class Avocet Tower soars above Bethesda skyline providing unparalleled amenities

Experience the future of real estate at Long & Foster Real Estate’s new Bethesda destination, now open at 7373 Wisconsin Avenue in the Avocet Tower. Spanning the entire 17^th floor of the Avocet, the innovative and modern office is unlike any traditional real estate facility.

“Our Bethesda office is so much more than a place to work—it’s a place for our agents to learn, play, grow, network, collaborate and build meaningful relationships with our local communities, while also building their own businesses,” said Kenneth Fagan, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster Real Estate.

Accessible to two Metro stations, the building is steps from Bethesda Row and is convenient to downtown D.C., plus it features a sustainable design with high-tech air filtration systems. Agents working there can enjoy use of the Avocet’s rooftop patio, its outdoor terrace, conference and meeting center, and its lobby, when they’re not working at one of Long & Foster’s high-tech workstations or offices. In addition to its multiple meeting areas, the building features a fitness center, yoga studio, and on-site dining—all available to Long & Foster’s agents and team.

“Long & Foster is committed to investing in our people, so that they can best serve their communities while growing their careers with us,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “By reimagining our approach to workspaces, we’re able to celebrate the mobility of our industry and even better support the core of our business—our agents, employees and clients.”

The office will be managed by Chris Ducey, who has been a part of the Long & Foster family for more than 25 years. Ducey most recently served as managing broker of three Long & Foster offices – Bethesda, Woodmont Avenue and Takoma Park. Ducey will oversee operations and business strategy for the new office, providing broker support, helping agents build their businesses and close transactions. He will also lead the 350-agent team with education and training programs, helping them take advantage of the many company-provided solutions to ensure their ongoing real estate success.

Also supporting the award-winning Bethesda team are real estate leaders Jeremiah Ganeto, Maureen “Mo” Cappadona and Sue Ader.

A grand opening celebration will be scheduled at Long & Foster’s new Avocet office at a later date.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.