Courtesy of the C-Ville blog citing a newsletter from the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors –

All those home builders banking on selling houses to new National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) employees may be in for a rude awakening. An estimate from the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors (CAAR) is that only 30 to 40 percent of employees will relocate, the rest not wishing to unsettle spouses and children.

Since NGIC’s expansion was announced several years ago, projects like North Pointe and Hollymead have gotten underway with some expectation of capitalizing on the people

…

“There will be an effect on the local real estate market, but probably NOT 900 new home owners,” said the newsletter. “Many expressed an interest in renting in the Charlottesville area and continuing to maintain their home in northern Virginia.”

D’oh.

Some of those relocating here may not have a choice regarding not selling their homes – many in NoVa have lost so much equity that they cannot afford to sell.

With that preface –

Relocation map – NGIC is in the 29 North region

Posts of enduring interest for buyers

This is where I point prospective buyers/renters – the rental market is far more fragmented with the “for sale” market –

The HooK’s classifieds

C-Ville’s classifieds

Daily Progress

Blue Ridge Apartment Council

Craigslist

Charlottesville MLS

While I make my living representing buyers and seller clients, often it is in their best interest to rent for at least six months to get a feel of the area, a lay-of-the-land, if you will. By giving honest rather than self-serving (buy now!!) advice, I hope and expect that they will reward my candor with loyalty, even if only to refer a friend or family member to me if they themselves don’t purchase.

More on NGIC coming next week …