Real Estate Agents: Here’s Where You Can Find New Ideas for the New Year.

As we embark on a new year, it’s essential for professionals in the real estate industry to stay ahead of the game and explore new ideas for success. To help our own agents achieve their goals this year, Long & Foster is kicking off 2025 by sponsoring RISMedia’s popular Rocking in the New Year 2025 virtual conference, taking place on Jan. 9.

This highly anticipated event will feature top industry experts who will share valuable insights and success strategies for the year ahead. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from top-producing agents and brokerage executives, including Patrick Bain, Long & Foster’s own CEO and President, who will discuss the importance of enhancing the customer experience.

The Rocking in the New Year 2025 virtual conference is a must-attend event for real estate professionals looking to achieve even greater results in 2025. With a focus on innovation and forward-thinking, this conference will provide attendees with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.

You can sign up for the event at no cost – courtesy of Long & Foster – by going to https://rocking.rismedia.com/checkout/select-tickets/?coupon=qpQjIjjN.

Five Reasons to Buy in 2025

How do you build long-term wealth? Homeownership is key: as real estate appreciates and grows in value, you build equity and wealth. If you – or your family or friends – are thinking about making the move from renting to owning, here are five reasons this might be the year.

Stabilizing Mortgage Rates. Rates are holding steady in the 5.5 to 6.5% range. With guidance from a professional mortgage consultant like our partners at Prosperity Home Mortgage, you can secure a rate that suits your needs and even set yourself up to refinance later if rates drop.

Increasing Property Values. Home sale prices have been rising across the country, driving increased property values for homeowners. Homeownership is a powerful tool to create long-term wealth, as you build equity in your home through your mortgage payments.

Potential Tax Benefits. Some costs of homeownership, such as mortgage interest and property taxes, often may be eligible for tax deductions. Make sure to consult your tax professional to determine which benefits you can take advantage of if you own a home or purchase one soon.

Design Freedom. As a homeowner, you can choose how to decorate and design your property—there’s no asking a property owner’s permission to paint a few walls or retile a bathroom. It’s a flexibility that lets you make your home truly your own.

Growing Inventory. Experts predict more homes will be on the market this year, creating more opportunities for first-time and move-up buyers. If you want to stay updated on what’s available in your desired markets, let me know.

Partnering with a professional agent, like those at Long & Foster Real Estate, ensures a seamless process, whether you’re buying or selling. With our market expertise and all-inclusive real estate services—including mortgage, title, insurance, inspection, moving and more—we’re here to make your journey to homeownership smooth and successful. Ready to explore? Connect with an agent today.

Washingtonian Honors Long & Foster Team in its Faces of Washington 2025

Washingtonian magazine released its annual Faces of Washington feature—spotlighting the many industry professionals who are leading their firms and clients to great results.

Among the many top executives featured were Long & Foster’s own Patrick Bain, CEO and President of The Long & Foster Companies. Bain was recognized as the Face of DC’s Leading Real Estate Company. In a short feature about him and his achievements, Bain shared that Long & Foster is focused on delivering residents with a streamlined and simplified real estate experience. “Consumers want an all-in-one transaction, and Long & Foster delivers,” Bain said in the article.

Long & Foster prestigious One Bethesda office also earned honors in the publication. One Bethesda was named as the Face of Bethesda Real Estate, with Managing Broker Jeremiah Ganeto sharing with the publication how this real estate office stands out from the rest. “We’re a destination,” Ganeto said. “Our agents come to learn, collaborate, educate and grow, and our success proves we’re doing that.” So far in 2024 alone, the office’s 350 agents have sold more than $1.5B in real estate.

Plus, many of Long & Foster’s leading agents were recognized in the publication.

Kimberly Cestari was honored as the Face of Chevy Chase Real Estate and Beyond. Cestari talked about her passion for real estate with Washingtonian, as well as her background in both interior design and home staging. She ranks as one of Long & Foster’s top agents across the expansive company and leading individual agent in D.C.

Lilian Jorgenson was named as the Face of Women in Real Estate. Jorgenson has been a dominant force in the industry for over 40 years, earning honors with Long & Foster, local associations and industry organizations. As she told Washingtonian, she’s driven to meet new people and help them achieve their real estate goals, and that’s been key to her longtime success.

Laurie Mensing earned recognition as the Face of McLean Real Estate. Nationally ranked for her real estate expertise and results, Mensing told Washingtonian that it’s her ability to “negotiate the absolute best price and terms the market will bear, while educating the consumer of the many differences in the metro DC market,” that’s been key to her success.

Traquel N. Butler was honored as the Face of “Chocolate City” Real Estate. A full-service real estate expert, with a background in real estate development and investment, Butler brings a commitment to supporting buyers and sellers at all levels, which has helped her earn numerous honors and achieve tremendous sales results.

Tricounty Suburban Realtors Association Honors Long & Foster’s Kathy Opperman

Recognition celebrates Opperman’s contributions to the community through her charity, Pillars of Light and Love

Kathy Opperman, one of Long & Foster Real Estate’s esteemed managing brokers, has earned the first-place Community Service Award from the Tricounty Suburban Realtors Association. Along with this prestigious recognition, Opperman received a generous $10,000 grant for Pillars of Light and Love, a nonprofit charity that she founded 10 years ago.

“I am truly honored to be recognized by my peers for the work we’ve done through Pillars of Light and Love,” Opperman said. “This award and grant will further our mission and enable us to continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Since its founding, Pillars of Light and Love has been committed to offering free support groups and empowerment programs to youth and adults in the local community. The recognition and grant received by Opperman serve as a testament to the impactful work the charity has carried out over the years. A few of its recent achievements include opening the So Much to Give Inclusive Café in November 2022, providing employment opportunities to 60 individuals with disabilities. Additionally, in July 2023, the charity launched the So Much to Give Inspiration Studio, an art and music studio dedicated to individuals with disabilities.

More recently, the So Much to Give Inclusive Café expanded to coffee counter service within Montgomery County Community College in Parkhouse Hall, and it opened a second counter this fall in the Health and Science Center at the college. These additions created dozens more jobs for individuals with disabilities.

Pillars of Light and Love also has served thousands with its monthly Kindness Projects. Through this volunteer program, area residents and businesses donate items that are assembled by volunteers and then distributed to hospitals, nursing homes, chemotherapy treatment centers, foster homes, animal rescues, and more. All of Pillars of Light and Love’s charity work is dependent on contributions by the local community, making this grant even more essential for its ongoing efforts.

For more information about Pillars of Light and Love, visit PillarsofLightandLove.org. To learn more about Long & Foster, go to LongandFoster.com.

Lauren (LT) Tate to Lead Long & Foster’s Fredericksburg Office

Long & Foster Real Estate has appointed Lauren (LT) Tate as managing broker for its Fredericksburg, Virginia, office. With over three decades of industry expertise, Tate brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to her new position.

Tate joined Long & Foster from a competing local franchise, where she served as executive vice president and managing broker. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role as a company and agent liaison for all technology platforms, including the highly popular CRM, kvCORE, where she excelled as a master trainer.

In addition to her extensive sales and management experience in real estate, Tate is the current President Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors (FAAR). She is set to be installed as its President next month, further solidifying her commitment to the local real estate community. Tate has also worked closely with FAAR as a coach and trainer, and most recently, she collaborated in creating business development programs for Long & Foster Real Estate’s Northern Virgina and West Virginia region.

Known for her passion in coaching agents to grow their business, Tate utilizes a variety of proven methods, including Buffini Peak Producers, Tom Ferry, Workman, and now Sherri Johnson. Her results-driven approach, combined with her hands-on leadership style and tech-savviness, has made her a respected figure in the industry. Tate is highly skilled in broker management, problem-solving, and transforming Realtors.

“We are thrilled to have LT join our team as the managing broker for our Fredericksburg office,” said Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster in Northern Virginia/West Virginia. “Her leadership and expertise will be invaluable in driving our continued success. Plus, LT’s extensive industry knowledge, coupled with her enthusiasm and dedication, make her the ideal choice to lead the team to new heights.”

Long & Foster’s Fredericksburg team will also benefit from the continued support of Chip Taylor, their dedicated sales manager. Together, Tate and Taylor will work collaboratively to provide exceptional service and support to their clients.

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

Long & Foster’s Mary Bowen Elected to Northern Virginia Association of Realtors® Board of Directors

Bowen elected to serve two-year term

Long & Foster Real Estate congratulates Mary Bowen, managing broker of the Arlington and Falls Church offices, for being elected to the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors® (NVAR) Board of Directors. Bowen will serve on the board for a two-year term (2025-2026).

Located in Fairfax, Virginia, NVAR supports its 13,000 members with essential resources, including industry education, advocacy, networking, and professional development opportunities.

To be considered for the election, Bowen went through an interview vetting process, which narrowed a pool of individuals down to eight. Four of the eight were elected by the members. Bowen currently serves on the NVAR Board of Directors this year (2024) in an appointed role, as well.

A graduate of the University of Mary Washington with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Bowen has been with Long & Foster since 2009. During her tenure, she has served in a variety of leadership and mentoring roles, and her focus on training and coaching have proven invaluable to the Realtors on her teams. As an active member of NVAR, Bowen has led various groups such as the Young Professionals Network and the New Member Advisory Group.

“We congratulate Mary on this appointment to the board and are proud of her commitment to the industry and for being selecting to serve in this leadership role,” said Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster’s Northern Virginia and West Virginia region.

In December, Bowen will be installed to the NVAR Board of Directors to serve in the upcoming year.

Long & Foster Real Estate is the nation’s No. 1 real estate company as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster’s Karen Kidwell Interviewed by USA Today

Kidwell discusses unexpected moving costs

Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster Real Estate’s Northern Virginia and West Virginia region, was recently interviewed by USA Today for their article on the unexpected costs of moving.

The article, “How to Create a Moving Budget: From Obvious Costs to Hidden Expenses” was featured in USA Today’s Homefront section. USA Today took a deep dive into the major costs and hidden expenses of moving – such as cleaning fees, security deposits, and meals. They stressed the importance of putting together a realistic moving budget and making informed decisions to reduce the stress of moving.

Kidwell was joined by several other industry leaders in the informative interview. When asked to discuss some of the frequently forgotten moving costs, Kidwell stated, “Homeowners and renters should consider and plan for [purchasing new] items that the moving company cannot move — live plants, perishable food items and liquids or flammable cleaning supplies. Each of these items can add up quickly, making it essential to plan accordingly.”

She was also asked for advice on how moving costs can drain one’s wallet if one is unprepared for the costs. “Surprise costs — emergency lodging, inflated fuel prices, or additional moving time fees — can set you back hundreds of dollars, turning what could have been a manageable cost into a financial strain.”

To read the full article, click here.

Whether you’re selling or buying a home, your Long & Foster agent can guide you every step of the way. We’re the one company that offers everything you need to reach your real estate goals – real estate, mortgage, inspection, title, insurance, moving and property management.

Luxury European-Style Home Hits the Market in Manakin Sabot for $2.4 M

Exquisite estate features a saltwater pool, close to two premier country clubs

If you’re looking for a gorgeous, custom-built home with a pool, look no further than this property in the exclusive community of The Meadows at Joe Brooke Farm in Manakin Sabot, Virginia.

The residence is listed by Pam Diemer at the Grove Avenue office of Long & Foster Real Estate, exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. Located at 923 Merchant Lee Place, the home, on six acres has five bedrooms, five full bathrooms and three-half bathrooms, with more than 9,000 square feet of luxurious living space and is being offered for $2.4 million.

“Constructed of the finest materials, this European-style home has beautifully designed interiors with no detail overlooked including gorgeous millwork throughout the home’s spacious rooms,” said Diemer. “Ideal for indoor and outdoor entertaining, you’ll also enjoy fishing and kayaking on Dover Lake and golf at two nearby premier country clubs.”

The Meadows at Joe Brooke Farm community offers miles of private roads for running and biking, along with woodland trails and access to Dover Lake Park, which includes canoe storage, an electric boat launch, dock, and covered picnic pavilion. Situated less than 15 minutes from Wegman’s and just five minutes from Kinloch Golf Club and Hermitage Country Club, this location combines serene country living with proximity to upscale amenities.

Built in 2016 by the current owner, this all-brick residence showcases exceptional quality and beautifully designed interiors that emphasize spacious, open-concept living, along with a myriad of outdoor living spaces that are ideal for entertaining.

Greet your guests in style in the foyer featuring its gleaming hardwood floors and gracious curved staircase. The first floor includes a dining room, a library with a cozy fireplace, and a two-story living room, all flowing seamlessly into a family room that also features a fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with a Thermador Pro range, a Thermador refrigerator and freezer, custom cabinetry, and a farmhouse porcelain sink overlooking a tranquil setting.

The luxurious primary suite on this level features two custom-designed closets and a spa-like five-fixture marble bathroom. Open doors of the suite to enjoy morning coffee or yoga on the spacious verandah. On this level, you’ll also find a laundry room, two half bathrooms, and a three-car garage with electric vehicle chargers.

Upstairs, there are two comfortable, private bedroom suites along with two additional large bedrooms that share a connecting bathroom and laundry room.

The home offers multiple outdoor spaces for large-scale entertaining, as well as smaller gathering for al fresco dining and quiet outdoor spaces just to relax or read a book on a warm day. There’s a screened porch with a fireplace, a covered patio, and a patio overlooking the organic zero-entry saltwater pool and spa, complemented by a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and fireplace.

The lower level is an entertainer’s paradise, featuring a family room, billiards room, wet bar, wine cellar, theatre, gym, and additional flexible spaces. It also leads to a covered patio with a gas fireplace, which provides stunning views of the pool—an ideal setting for gatherings.

Smart home technology, an automatic generator, and an audio system elevate this home to the next level of modern convenience.

Learn more about 923 Merchant Lee Place by visiting Diemer’s website by clicking here. To view a video about the property, click 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 Welcomes Greg Skipper to Its Leadership Team

Experienced real estate professional to lead firm’s Eldersburg, Cattail Creek, and Taneytown office

Long & Foster Real Estate has appointed Greg Skipper as branch manager of its Eldersburg, Cattail Creek, and Taneytown offices. With his extensive knowledge of the local real estate market and his commitment to providing exceptional service, Skipper is poised to make a significant impact on these locations.

Skipper began his real estate career nearly a decade ago at Long & Foster, where he quickly established himself as a talented professional. Over the years, he has built a thriving real estate business, leading a successful team at a competing local franchise in Ellicott City. His experience in managing restaurants prior to joining the industry has equipped him with invaluable leadership and customer service skills, which he has seamlessly integrated into his real estate practice.

“We are thrilled to have Greg on board,” said Athena Petersen, senior vice president and regional manager in Long & Foster’s Baltimore | Western Maryland | Eastern Shore region. “His proven track record and dedication to excellence make him the ideal candidate to lead our Eldersburg, Cattail Creek, and Taneytown offices. We are confident that his leadership will drive our teams to new heights.”

Skipper’s mission is to help both agents and consumers live their best lives through real estate. His passion for the industry, combined with his commitment to providing exceptional service, has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor among his clients and colleagues. He is known for his attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and ability to solve problems and cultivate relationships.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Skipper resides in Westminster with his wife and two children, Ellie and Chase. He enjoys traveling and spending time with his family. He is licensed in both Maryland and Pennsylvania. To learn more about Long & Foster, visit Longandfoster.com.

Experience Resort-Style Living with Spectacular Wye River Views

Luxurious property features a pool, hot tub, dock and garden paths with lush roses

Offering unparalleled luxury and serenity, this property is the perfect waterside retreat for friend and family gatherings. The property is not just an extraordinary estate; it’s a lifestyle on a peninsula of nearly 3.5 acres that you’ll never want to leave. It features a waterside saltwater pool, hot tub, waterside bar and deck, boat ramp and private pier with lift – along approximately 700 feet of picturesque shoreline.

Located at 141 River Run in Queenstown, Maryland, the home has five bedrooms, six bathrooms and one half bathroom over nearly 7500 square feet. It is listed by Reid Buckley and Meagan Buckley affiliated with the Eastport Annapolis office of Long & Foster Real Estate, exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties and is offered for $4.25M.

The property is ideal as a primary or secondary home as it is conveniently located about an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore and slightly more than an hour’s drive from Northern Virginia. You’ll also enjoy the convenience of an easy boat ride for lunch to Kent Narrows, St. Michaels or Annapolis.

“From the moment you arrive at this property, the serene beauty and sophisticated elegance envelop you,” said Reid Buckley. “Lush rose gardens lead to peaceful sitting areas, while the waterfront recreation room provides seamless access to refreshing river breezes, creating an atmosphere perfect for relaxation and entertainment.”

Driving down the property’s newly surfaced pea gravel driveway, a first glimpse of the home’s coastal vibe, with its grey siding accented by light blue accent colors and rose bushes against the backdrop of the Wye River, puts you at ease.

“This is a rare opportunity to own a grand Eastern Shore estate, with something for everyone,” said Meagan Buckley. “I encourage all interested buyers to visit this extraordinary property to experience its beauty first hand.”

Greet your guests in style in the foyer with its Palladian window, open to the stunning light-filled living room with a cathedral ceiling, two gleaming chandeliers, built-in shelving, a gas fireplace, and French doors that open to a charming patio with a pergola. The garden and water views are framed within the pergola and the panorama merges into a living artwork.

The adjacent great room with a soaring ceiling is ideal for family or guests to gather to help the chef or relish the water and landscaped views from its seating area. The chef’s dream kitchen is fully-equipped with high-end stainless-steel appliances, a beverage fridge, dual ovens, marble countertops and backsplash, and a central island with bar seating.

The great room also encompasses a dining area that can easily accommodate 10 people but does not feel overly formal. The screened porch is a delightful place for al fresco dining, with direct access to the pool.

The spacious main-level owner’s suite is at one end of the home, with waterside access and a private lounging deck to enjoy morning coffee or yoga. The spa-like bathroom offers two separate spaces for individual privacy, a soaking tub with a waterfall faucet, a fabulous water view shower, and closets with custom built-in cabinetry. Two additional bedrooms on the main level share a renovated hall bath, a lovely water-view office, a formal powder room, and a full bathroom that’s perfect for guests to access from the pool.

Upstairs, you’ll find a second huge owner’s suite with a private waterside deck, a deluxe bathroom and several additional rooms that would be perfect for exercise, a second office, or a nursery.

The attached garage has been cleverly converted into a versatile indoor/outdoor game room with contemporary clear garage doors on both sides and a full bar overlooking the hot tub, pool and river – ideal for your next party. An auxiliary wall unit keeps this space warm in winter and cool in the summer.

A two-car detached garage with an adjoining workshop has a fully updated in-law suite above it. This stylish space includes a living room, full kitchen with an island, bedroom, bathroom, laundry room, and a bunk room – ideal for an au pair or overnight guests.

For more information on this gorgeous property, contact Reid Buckley or Meagan Buckley at 410-266-6880.

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