July 4th is when we celebrate American Independence Day in the United States.  It wasn't until 1870, almost a hundred years after the Declaration was written, that Congress first declared July 4 to be a national holiday as part of a bill to officially recognize several holidays, including Christmas.

To many Americans, July 4th is day that is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, festivals, barbeques, fairs, concerts, baseball games and other various patriotic displays.  It is a day that we praise our nation's heritage, laws, history, society and most importantly people and Hampton Roads is no exception.  Check out all of these great July 4th events in Hampton Roads.

Independence Day Fireworks in Hampton Roads

Virginia Beach - Jul. 4 - 4th

With the season's warmer weather and summer in full swing, many homeowners are spending more time in their outdoor spaces.  Whether you are entertaining friends or enjoying some quiet time with a good book, our decks and yards can offer a great place to find solitude in the summer months. 

There are so many great resources across the web that offer ideas about how to transform your decks, patios and yards.  Is a DIY outdoor fire pit on your summer to do list? Or are you maybe planning to paint your deck furniture? Either way, there is something here for everyone.

• Quick + Chic Outdoor Decorating Tips - Discover these stylish decorating ideas for creating an outdoor room full of seasonal charm — without breaking the bank.
• Patios - Find inspiration,

Well, summer 2014 is officially here! With the end of the school year officially behind most of us, it is time to make summer plans. Regardless of what your situation is, we wanted to put together a lineup of great summer activities for kids of all ages.  Being a stay at home parent certainly has its advantages all around but sometimes working parents have a hard time coming up with creative ideas to keep their kids entertained during the summer months.  Check out some of these great ideas we found on the web.  Hopefully you will find something fantastic that both you and your children can add to your summer regime!

• Before your family has a chance to say, "Mom, I'm boooored!" you can be ready with this list of great ideas from Parenting Magazine.

Father's Day is this Sunday and in honor of our fathers, fatherhood and that special paternal bond, we have put together some great ideas to help you celebrate that special man in your life. 

Hampton Roads Father's Day events courtesy of www.virginia.org

• Virginia Beach - Jun. 12 - 15 - Boardwalk Art Show & Festival - Enjoy 300 artists and a fun festival atmosphere at the oceanfront during Father's Day Weekend.
• Virginia Beach - Jun. 15 - Fathers Day "Man" Brunch - Honor the special dads in your life at the Founders Inn and Spa’s Father’s Day Man Brunch.
• Chesapeake - Jun. 15 - Father's Day Paddle-Dads Ride Free - DADS RIDE FREE! Treat your Father to some much deserved peace and tranquility on a guided kayak tour at any of our Coastal Virginia

Ready to Sell? Tips for Spring and Summer Home Staging

With the sun shining more often, flowers and trees in full bloom and the school year nearing an end, late spring or early summer is the perfect time to list your home. 

According to RIS Media, staged homes sell 78% faster than non-staged homes so homeowners must do their due diligence in an effort to ensure a quick and successful sale. Here are some great home staging tips from around the web that might make your job a little easier.  With the right plan, and the help of your REALTOR® and possibly a professional home stager, you have a greater potential of attracting the most potential buyers.

• Buy a fresh welcome mat and ensure that house numbers are visible from the street.  When buyers are