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.

Long & Foster Named as a Top Finalist in Exhibit Brokerage Brand Awards

The Long & Foster Companies, parent company of Long & Foster Real Estate is pleased to announce it has been named as one of the top three finalists in the nation in the annual Exhibit Brokerage Brand Awards presented by Maxa Designs and T3 Sixty.

Recognized in the Northeast region, Long & Foster stood out among more than 400 brokerages across the United States for its innovative marketing strategies and exceptional brand representation. The Exhibit Brokerage Brand Awards evaluate submissions based on eight key attributes, including storytelling, visual identity, digital and print marketing, and innovation integration.

Long & Foster showcased its new and highly successful “It’s the One” campaign, featuring a dynamic portfolio of images and videos that highlight the company’s All-Inclusive Real Estate Experience. This campaign emphasizes Long & Foster’s unique competitive advantage, bringing together all necessary services—mortgage, title, insurance, moving, and inspection—under one roof to better serve clients.

“We are thrilled to be recognized among the best in the industry,” said Kathleen Wilks, chief marketing officer of Long & Foster. “Our ‘It’s the One’ campaign embodies our commitment to providing our agents and clients with everything they need to succeed in the real estate market. We believe this cohesive approach truly sets us apart.”

To support this campaign, Long & Foster has developed a suite of marketing materials designed to resonate with both agents, clients and the general public. These resources include agent, client and recruiting brochures, videos and much more – all consistently branded and crafted to empower agents to exceed client expectations and reinforce Long & Foster’s reputation for exceptional service and expertise.

“As a company rooted in excellence and innovation, it’s a tremendous honor for Long & Foster to be recognized nationally,” said Patrick Bain, CEO and president of The Long & Foster Companies. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our CMO Kathleen Wilks and her incredible Marketing team. Their ability to drive results, elevate our brand, and push the boundaries of marketing in our industry is truly inspiring. Congratulations to all involved—it’s an exciting moment for Long & Foster.”

Maxa Designs, a leader in marketing collaboration, assists brands in creating marketing materials efficiently, while T3 Sixty offers insights and services that enhance brokerage management and performance.

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.

Long & Foster Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Charlottesville

Long & Foster Real Estate is celebrating the 10th anniversary of opening its first office in Charlottesville, Virginia. Since that office opened, Long & Foster has expanded in the region with a total of four offices in the Charlottesville and Staunton/Waynesboro areas.

“I’m proud to lead the agents and employees in the Charlottesville and Staunton/Waynesboro areas and celebrate this 10-year milestone with them,” said Dawn Bradley, senior vice president and regional manager of the Richmond and Charlottesville/Staunton regions. “The dedication of our agents, staff and management to provide exceptional service has enabled us to add offices to serve more of our valued clients throughout the region.”

Over 25 experienced agents made the initial move to join the Charlottesville office when it opened in 2014. Their expertise and leadership as well as intimate knowledge of the local market provided the foundation to grow Long & Foster’s presence in Charlottesville, which now has more than 90 agents in its offices throughout the region.

The offices are located in Charlottesville, West Charlottesville, Lake Monticello and Glenmore, led by managing brokers Tom Pace and Kevin Wilberger and sales manager, Diane Miller.

In addition, there are over 30 agents in two Staunton/Waynesboro locations managed by Kevin Wilberger and sales manager Kathryn Bentley. These offices are located in Staunton and in Augusta County, Virginia.

“Celebrating a decade in the Charlottesville region is a testament to the strong relationships we’ve built with our clients and the community,” said Patrick Bain, CEO and president of The Long & Foster Companies, parent company of Long & Foster Real Estate. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to providing exceptional service and helping families find their perfect homes in this beautiful area. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey.”

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.

Long & Foster to Host Open House Weekend 

Find open houses at LongandFoster.com/openhouses

Long & Foster Real Estate will host a company-wide open house weekend on Oct. 5 and 6. The event allows homebuyers across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast to explore many properties available for sale in their communities. 

“Just like our all-inclusive approach to real estate makes it easier for consumers to buy or sell a home, so, too, does our open house weekend by creating an opportunity for sellers to showcase their homes and for buyers to conveniently and quickly shop for available homes,” said Patrick Bain, president and CEO of The Long & Foster Companies, parent company of Long & Foster Real Estate.

The event also highlights Long & Foster’s all-inclusive approach to real estate—which brings together everything and everyone you need to buy, sell and own a home, with the company’s partners in mortgage, title, insurance, inspection and moving on location at many of the brokerage’s open houses. For example, mortgage consultants with Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, a full-service mortgage banker and part of The Long & Foster Companies, will be available to answer questions about the mortgage process and pre-qualify interested individuals.

Visit LongandFoster.com/openhouses to preview some of the homes that will participate in the open house weekend.  

Rare Opportunity to Own an Estate in Fine Creek Bluffs

Architecturally grand home includes acreage and James River access

Live the life you’ve always dreamed about in this exceptional custom brick Georgian home nestled on 10+ serene acres on a private street in the prestigious Fine Creek Bluffs community. This elegant property harmonizes luxury with comfort, offering a perfect retreat for discerning buyers.

Located at 2364 Huguenot Trail in Powhatan, Virginia, this 5100+ square foot home has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and one-half bathroom. Listed by Long & Foster Real Estate’s Susan Lockhart and Whitney Pace of the Grove office, the estate is listed for $1.225M. An additional partially wooded 10 acres with a barn is being offered for $200,000 with the purchase of this home.

“This home provides the best of both worlds – privacy and accessibility in a convenient location, accessible to shopping, schools and recreation,” said Lockhart. “I encourage all interested parties to visit this gorgeous property to experience its beauty in person.”

The estate is between Richmond and Charlottesville, close to Interstate 288, making it convenient for Midlothian. The Mill at Fine Creek, a special event venue is nearby, offering bed & breakfast style guest cottages with a brewery and taproom featuring scenic views.

Pace agreed and added, “This property has something for everyone – a spacious home with beautiful architectural details, lots of acreage for the equestrian enthusiast, access to the river for canoes, kayaks, fishing, and more.”

A regal circular driveway leads to this stately home. Open double front doors to greet your guests in style in the foyer with gleaming marble flooring, a turned staircase and enticing views of the first-floor rooms. Many upgraded and timeless features are found throughout the home with gorgeous millwork including dentil crown molding, inlaid hardwood floors and arched windows, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and warmth. You’ll enjoy entertaining in the spacious formal rooms.

The great room is a true centerpiece of the home, featuring a vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, custom built-in cabinetry, and a wet bar- perfect for hosting gatherings. The three fireplaces- in the dining room, great room, and primary bedroom add warmth and charm throughout the home.

Upstairs, you’ll find a spacious primary bedroom, three additional bedrooms, two offices and three bathrooms. The walk-up attic/third level can be finished and presents a versatile recreation room with a cedar closet, adding to the home’s abundant space.

The new owner of this home can enjoy easy access to the James River via a neighborhood private road, enhancing the property’s appeal.

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

Long & Foster Real Estate to Open Chincoteague-Main Street Office

Long & Foster Real Estate is pleased to announce that it will open a new office in Chincoteague, Virginia on Oct. 21. The new office is located at 4153 Main Street. Meghan O. Clarkson will lead the new office, and it will be managed by Tina Holt managing broker of the Long & Foster’s Chincoteague-Main Street office. A grand opening celebration will be held on Nov. 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Long & Foster is committed to growing our presence in Hampton Roads, the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and Northeast North Carolina, and the opening of the Chincoteague-Main Street office allows us to increase our footprint and better serve home buyers and sellers throughout the area,” said Tina Holt, senior vice president and regional manager of the Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina regions. “Additionally, having a leader like Meghan, who is active in the community, provides us with a unique understanding of the local market and the needs of its residents.”

The Chincoteague-Main Street office is a direct result of Long & Foster’s Elite Entrepreneur Platform, which allows agents to build their own business while aligning with one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America.

“I’m thrilled to be launching this new Long & Foster office and leading a team of agents who will receive the best in training, technology, and tools available to them,” Clarkson said. “Not only does Long & Foster have excellent brand recognition, but it’s a company that puts its agents and clients first. We’re excited and ready to put our skills to work in the local community.”

“Opening this new office aligns with Long & Foster’s plan to expand our ability to provide unparalleled customer service to our buyers and sellers,” said Patrick Bain, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “We have no doubt that the new Chincoteague-Main Street office will be the go-to resource when consumers in this area of Virginia are looking to make confident, well-informed buying and selling decisions.”

For more information about the Chincoteague-Main Street location, contact Clarkson at 757-894-0798 or Meghan@LNF.com.

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

Long & Foster’s Brenda Payne Wins Good Neighbor Award

Payne honored by Virginia Realtors for outstanding community service

Long & Foster Real Estate is proud to announce that Brenda Payne, a Realtor with the Warrenton/Culpeper office, has received the Good Neighbor award from Virginia Realtors.

Payne works tirelessly across the town of Marshall, Virginia and Fauquier County for numerous nonprofits. She is known as the “face” of Marshall’s Volunteer Fire and Rescue for her extensive work with them, which led to the Fauquier Board of Supervisors naming her the 2015 Citizen of the Year for the Marshall District.

“Brenda is well deserving of this award, and we are so fortunate she is part of our Long & Foster family,” said Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of the Northern Virginia and West Virginia regions. “Her passion to give is remarkable – whether helping her community or her valued clients to reach their real estate goals.”

Currently, Payne is secretary on the Marshall Fire & Rescue board of directors, head of the membership committee and leads fundraising including Toys for Tots. She also organizes a monthly breakfast and coordinates the annual open house to educate the community about fire and emergency medical service safety, initiates the annual Easter Egg hunt, and more.

A long-time volunteer for Greater Piedmont REALTORS, Payne serves as the treasurer on the board of directors and coordinator for the Fauquier County Fair – organizing everything from children’s games and helping in the kitchen to exhibit building, judging activities, and soliciting sponsorships.

In addition, Payne serves on the Marshall Moving Forward Committee to help make improvements for the town of Marshall. She is also very active in her church community providing the audio/visual needs at the Marshall Baptist Church, serving as a greeter and helping with events.

“Long & Foster is proud that Virginia Realtors has recognized Brenda’s endless support of her community,” said Dave Wills, managing broker of the Warrenton/Culpeper office. “In addition to being a true real estate professional, she works every day to make a difference in the lives of the residents of Marshall and throughout Fauquier County.”

Payne was presented with the Good Neighbor Award at a recent Virginia Realtors event in Richmond.

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