Alicia Rivas's Blog Posts

If you are using a VA loan to purchase a home in Hampton Roads, you will hear the terms 'appraisal' and 'inspection' frequently. It is important to understand that they serve two very different

You are days away from closing on your new Hampton Roads home. The loan is approved, the boxes are packed, and the finish line is in sight. But there is one crucial step left: the final walk-through

When calculating your monthly housing budget, your mortgage principal and interest are only part of the equation. You must also account for local property taxes, which vary significantly across the

When purchasing a home, the last thing you want is the HVAC system or water heater failing in your first month of ownership. This is where a home warranty comes in.Unlike homeowners insurance, which

When purchasing a home in Virginia, you will encounter numerous documents and fees at the closing table. One of the most critical, yet frequently misunderstood, is title insurance.  Unlike

Protecting your new home is a top priority. In Hampton Roads, where coastal weather is a factor, understanding your homeowners insurance policy is essential. While the state of Virginia does not

Cheshire Forest continues to show steady buyer demand in Chesapeake, Virginia, especially for homes that are priced well and presented properly.A recent example is 517 Liverpool Court, a 4 bedroom,.

 The home-selling process in Hampton Roads has evolved. Buyers today have more choices and leverage than they did in previous years. Active housing inventory has increased, meaning buyers are

Burbage Grant Market Update in Suffolk, VirginiaThe Burbage Grant real estate market continues to show strong buyer interest, especially for well prepared, properly priced homes. One recent example

Buying a home in Hampton Roads is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you do not know what comes next. Between financing, pre approval, home tours, offer strategy, inspections,

Cheshire Forest Neighborhood Real Estate UpdateLocated in the heart of the Great Bridge area of Chesapeake, Virginia, Cheshire Forest is a premier community consisting of 508 single-family homes.

The Real Value of Your Biggest Asset: April 2026 Market UpdateAs we move into the spring of 2026, the national housing market is finally beginning to crack open. With mortgage rates cooling to 6%,

Preparing for a Navy PCS move? Discover official PCS timelines, allowances and relocation tips, along with housing insights for Hampton Roads. Rick and Alicia Rivas will guide you through every step