This season is full of cozy inspiration, local events, Santa sightings, winter home tips, design ideas, and even a delicious recipe to warm up your evenings. I’ve gathered my favorite Valley happenings to help you soak up all the festive magic this time of year has to offer.
Click below to open the full Winter Newsletter and explore everything inside — from community highlights to seasonal home inspiration
Wishing you a season filled with warmth, joy, and all things local. ✨ — Carolyn Book, REALTOR® | eXp Realty
Realtors aren’t supposed to take vacations — at least that’s what people love to tell me. But this spring, I traded contracts and closings for cobblestones and Caravaggios… and I flew back to Rome, a city that steals my heart a little more every time.
And what did I learn?
You can take the Realtor out of real estate, but you absolutely cannot take the love of architecture, art, and beautiful spaces out of the Realtor.
Rome is a living masterclass in design.
Every time I return, I’m reminded that homes and cities are not just places — they’re stories. They’re layers of people, ideas, risks, reinventions, and moments of genius that last long after their creators are gone.
So, while this was “vacation,” it ended up being the kind of trip that fills your creative soul to the brim. Here are the highlights — the places that made me stop and think about space, history, and the quiet magic of stepping back in time.
The Hidden, the Grand, and the Completely Mind-Blowing
Domus Aurea — Nero’s Lost Palace
Imagine a palace of more than 300 rooms, glittering with gold and frescoes… buried on purpose and forgotten for centuries. Nero’s Domus Aurea was rediscovered only when a young boy fell through a hole in the ground, and Renaissance artists like Raphael and Michelangelo were lowered in by rope to study the walls. Walking through it feels like being inside the bones of ancient Rome.
Palazzo Colonna — 900 Years of Living History
Still owned by the same noble family, this palace is pure operatic beauty. The Great Hall feels like stepping straight into a painting — mirror-lined, golden, breathtaking. It’s grandeur with a pulse.
This private palace-turned-gallery is quiet and deeply personal, with masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Velázquez displayed just as the family intended. A completely different museum experience — like visiting an old friend with exquisite taste.
Passetto di Borgo — The Popes’ Escape Route
This elevated corridor has been saving lives since 1277. Popes fled through it during invasions, most famously during the brutal Sack of Rome in 1527. Standing beside it, you feel the weight of fear, power, and survival baked right into the brick.
Castel Sant’Angelo — Mausoleum, Fortress, Sanctuary
Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb, it morphed over centuries into a papal stronghold, treasury, and prison. Every level tells a story — some glamorous, some dark. And the rooftop view? Pure magic.
Caravaggio’s Churches — Masterpieces in the Wild
This is one of my favorite parts of Rome: Caravaggios casually hanging inside neighborhood churches, no ticket required. You slip into the shadows, and suddenly you’re face-to-face with raw, dramatic beauty.
Borghese Gardens — Rome’s Breathing Space
Wide tree-lined paths, sunlight filtering through pines, families strolling peacefully. It’s the perfect place to wander with no destination and let the city slow you down.
Baths of Caracalla — Engineering on an Epic Scale
Built in just about four years by roughly 6,000 workers, these ancient baths were once a lavish complex of pools, saunas, libraries, and gardens. Today their ruins stand open to the sky — breathtaking, massive, and humbling.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore — Ancient, Sacred, Timeless
One of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, built in the 5th century and now the resting place of Pope Francis, who chose this Marian shrine for his tomb. Its mosaics and relics make it feel as though the centuries have layered themselves gently inside.
And yes — I climbed the new panoramic terrace. The views? Absolutely worth every step.
Fontana delle Tartarughe — A Small, Perfect Jewel
The Turtle Fountain in the Jewish Ghetto is one of Rome’s sweetest little surprises. Delicate, elegant, and tucked into a quiet piazza, it’s pure joy — proof that even Rome’s small moments carry art and charm.
So What Does This Have to Do With Real Estate?
Everything.
Travel reminds me why I love what I do: helping people find spaces that speak to them.
Rome is a city of layers — ancient foundations supporting Renaissance beauty supporting modern life. Homes are like that too. They hold our stories, our histories, our dreams.
And just like exploring Rome, finding your perfect home is part research, part instinct, part magic.
So yes — the rumors are true. Your Realtor took a vacation. And she came back more inspired than ever.
If you want Rome travel tips, architecture chat, or you’re ready to find your own little masterpiece closer to home, I’d love to help. ❤️
Autumn in the Shenandoah Valley is pure magic — golden light, crisp mornings, and the kind of scenery that makes you pull over just to take it all in. This season, I’m exploring our region from every angle: above ground, through the ground, and below it.
Above Ground: Skyline Drive & the Blue Ridge Parkway
Leaf-peeping season doesn’t get better than this. Cruise along Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway — both are showing off right now with sweeping views, crisp air, and more photo ops than your camera roll can handle. Pack a picnic, roll the windows down, and let the mountain breeze reset your soul. Bonus: even with the government shutdown lingering, Shenandoah National Park remains open for visitors. Just remember that what you pack in-you pack back out.
Through the Ground: The Blue Ridge Tunnel
For a unique twist on “fall walk,” head underground — well, through ground — at the Blue Ridge Tunnel. Just outside of Afton, this historic railroad tunnel stretches nearly a mile and a half beneath the mountain. Bring a flashlight (it gets dark!) and enjoy the cool air, echoing footsteps, and the feeling of stepping through history.
Below Ground: Grand Caverns
When you’re ready to really go deep, Grand Caverns in Grottoes are waiting. It’s America’s oldest continually operating show cave — think cathedral-sized rooms, dramatic limestone formations, and the perfect steady 54°F. Guided tours run daily, and it’s a great way to experience nature’s art gallery from a whole new angle.
Until Next TimeThe Shenandoah Valley always knows how to put on a show, especially in fall. Whether you’re chasing foliage or dreaming about your next move here, I’m happy to share local pumpkin patches and corn maze locations-don’t forget apple picking.
Warmly, Carolyn Book, The Realtor RN eXp Realty | Staunton, VA
The Realtor RN — Guiding Moves with Heart & Precision
Every August, I pause to celebrate one of the greatest joys of my life: my Labrador, Kai. If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you already know he’s not just a pet — he’s my constant shadow, my best friend, and forever “Employee of the Year.”
But Kai’s story didn’t begin that way. For weeks, he was “mine not mine.” He was promised to another family, and I was devastated at the thought that he wouldn’t be coming home with me. Then, in one of those wonderful twists of fate, that first family’s plans fell through. Kai became mine — and eight years later, I can’t imagine a day without him.
Why Dogs Change Everything
Living and working in Staunton and the Shenandoah Valley, I see firsthand how much pets shape the way we live in our homes. For me, Kai isn’t just company — he’s part of the family. From neighborhood walks to afternoons curled up while I work on real estate, he reminds me daily that home is about more than square footage. It’s about the life you live inside those walls.
As a Realtor (and an RN), I meet so many people whose four-legged friends are top of mind when they buy or sell. They’re looking for fenced yards, mudrooms for wet paws, or just cozy spots by the fireplace. A dog like Kai makes you think about “home” in a whole new way.
Dog-Friendly Living in the Shenandoah Valley
The Staunton area is full of pet-friendly parks, trails, and neighborhoods that make life with a dog so much richer. From Gypsy Hill Park to the Shenandoah National Park trails, Kai and I have our share of favorite spots. Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here forever, exploring our community through your dog’s eyes is a gift.
A Realtor Who Gets It
As The Realtor RN, I know a home search isn’t just about bedrooms and bathrooms — it’s about lifestyle. If you have pets, they’re part of that lifestyle. Whether you’re selling your home and want to highlight pet-friendly features, or you’re buying a new place and searching for the perfect yard for your pup, I’d love to help.
Closing Thoughts
So on this National Dog Day, here’s to Kai — my glue, my shadow, my heart. And here’s to all the dogs out there who make our lives better and our homes feel truly complete.
If you’re a fellow dog parent, I’d love to see your “Employee of the Year.” Drop a photo in the comments or send me a note — let’s celebrate together.
The Greater Augusta Association of Realtors just released the Q2 2025 housing market stats — and while the numbers are the same ones every Realtor in our area has, my job is to interpret them so you can make smart decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about your home’s value.
Inventory Rising
Buyers now have more homes to choose from than this time last year:
Augusta County listings up 18% (165 homes)
Staunton up 2% (65 homes)
Waynesboro up 28% (88 homes)
How Fast Are Homes Selling? If I got a dime for every time I am asked this question…
Days on market tell us how quickly homes are going under contract. Staunton is moving fast — down to just 6 days on average — while Waynesboro has slowed slightly to 11 days. If the price is right-don’t blink or you will miss out.
Price Movements
Prices moved in different directions: Staunton saw a 4% dip in median sales price, creating potential opportunity for buyers. Waynesboro prices rose 5%, great news for sellers. Augusta County prices held steady with a slight 1% bump.
Sales Volume Surge
The big winner in total sold dollar volume is Augusta County, jumping 65% over last year.
Why Does this Matter?
Market trends don’t wait. Whether you’re thinking about listing this fall or buying before rates shift, now’s the time to align your plans with the numbers. Let’s talk about your next move. I don’t have a crystal ball. I cannot tell you exactly what will happen next month, next quarter or even next year. What I can tell you is that numbers matter whether you are listing a property to sell OR looking to buy a home in Staunton, Waynesboro or Augusta County. When you match goals to data closing happen!
Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Highland County, Virginia, transforms every March into a maple lover’s paradise with the Highland County Maple Festival. This annual celebration, held since 1959, draws visitors from near and far to experience the time-honored tradition of maple syrup production while enjoying the charm of Virginia’s “Little Switzerland.”
A Taste of Tradition
Every year, during the second and third weekends in March, Highland County welcomes thousands of visitors eager to see how pure, sweet maple syrup is made. Sugar camps across the county open their doors, allowing guests to witness firsthand the age-old process of tapping maple trees, collecting sap, and boiling it down into liquid gold. Whether you prefer traditional wood-fired boiling methods or modern evaporators, each sugar camp offers a unique glimpse into this centuries-old craft.
More Than Just Maple
While maple syrup is the star of the show, the festival offers so much more:
🍁 Mouthwatering Maple Treats – From piping-hot pancakes drenched in fresh maple syrup to maple donuts, sugar-coated nuts, and even maple BBQ, your taste buds are in for a treat!
🛍️ Crafts & Artisan Goods – Local vendors showcase handmade crafts, artwork, and specialty foods, making it the perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs.
🎶 Live Music & Entertainment – Enjoy the sounds of bluegrass, folk, and traditional Appalachian music while soaking in the festival atmosphere.
🏡 Small-Town Hospitality – Highland County’s welcoming community makes this festival feel like a homecoming, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest.
Plan Your Visit
📅 When: March 8-9 & March 15-16, 2025 📍 Where: Highland County, VA 🎟️ Admission: Free for most events, with some ticketed activities
Since the festival is a popular event, be sure to arrive early, dress for the mountain weather, and bring cash for local vendors who may not accept cards.
Why You Can’t Miss It
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic weekend getaway, the Highland County Maple Festival is an experience like no other. It’s a chance to savor authentic Appalachian culture, indulge in delicious maple treats, and take in the stunning mountain views that make Highland County one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets.
Will we see you there? 🍁 You might just catch us in line for some Maple donuts.
Welcome to the spring 2024 issue where we present an extraordinary home nestled in the prestigious enclave of Dogwood Road in historic Staunton, Virginia.
A Home with History
Built in 1955 for the Schwarzschild Family, this custom home was designed by Marcellus Wright & Son Architects from Richmond, Virginia. Marcellus (Eugene) Wright entered the world of architecture at age 16 and eventually transitioned to Philadelphia, PA, where he obtained degrees from the Philadelphia School of Applied Arts and the University of Pennsylvania. By 1922 he was elected to be a member of the American Institute of Architects.
Marcellus Wight & Son Architects is considered one of the founding firms in Richmond. While designing buildings of historical significance throughout Virginia, they maintained private residential clients as well. Some of their other notable buildings include Altria Theater, Hotel John Marshall, Byrd Terminal Richmond International Airport, and The Chamberlin Hotel.
Interiors: Attention to Detail
The home stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Stepping inside, one is welcomed by the warm embrace of custom millwork, a testament to the attention to detail that permeates every corner of the residence.
The interior design, curated to perfection, features custom drapery by the esteemed Thomas-Hines inc. in Richmond VA, lending an air of sophistication and luxury to the space. Soft color and carefully curated palettes envelope the interiors, creating a sense of tranquil luxury that resonates throughout every room.
Grand Salon: A Place for Conversational Gathering
The salon is a place to come together with loved ones to cherish each other’s company. Whether it’s for the celebration of a milestone or the opportunity to discuss the latest book club novel over wine and charcuterie, the salon is a place of gathering and celebration.
Dining Room: A Place to Relax
Step into the opulent dining room where elegance and comfort seamlessly converge. Gleaming with natural light, the inviting ambiance of this dining room is the epitome of luxury living with a touch of warmth.
Family Room: Places in Which We Gather Fill the Heart
The family room provides a cozy retreat for relaxation and connection in perfect harmony. The French door opens into the boxwood garden designed by the famous landscape architect Charles Gillette, referred to as the architect of Southern landscape.
Kitchen: Nourishing Hearts
Indulge in the timeless elegance of the custom kitchen designed with masterful craftsmanship. The galley-style layout, widened to exude spaciousness, showcases bespoke cabinets and moldings that define understated luxury.
Library: Nourishing the Mind and the Soul
The library is an exemplary testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras, showcasing enduring care and attention to detail. This cozy space exudes charm with its rich, warm fabric and paint colors that compliment the intricate cabinetry.
Primary Bedroom: A Retreat
Elegance, harmony, and refinement are reflected in the grand owner’s suite. With a marble ensuite and walk-in closet, the suite is timeless elegance for a modern age.
The Second Floor
Hidden behind double doors is the private entrance to the second floor allowing for privacy of guests and family members. The second level lends to a relaxed casual ambiance to unwind, rejuvenate and relax with views over the boxwood garden and peaceful backyard from both bedrooms.
Secret Garden
Nestled behind the home, a hidden oasis awaits in the form of a meticulously designed boxwood garden inspired by renowned southern landscape designer, Charles Gillette. Tucked away from the street view, this secret garden serves as a delightful surprise, offering a tranquil retreat for all who enter.
Elevations: Unassuming, Quiet Luxury
Nestled on a knoll overlooking Dogwood Rd, the deceiving facade of the home masks its true grandeur. Extending out the back, the home unveils a much larger interior that initially perceived.
Encircled by meticulously maintained boxwood gardens, this home embodies elegance and charm.
Details for Discerning Buyers
This home has 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and spans 3,786 square feet. It sits on a 1.79-acre plot and is offered at $850,000.00. The seller is represented by eXp Realty LLC and photography is provided by Millpond Photography.
In Conclusion: Home
Comfort, love, belonging, sanctuary, memories. All these words encapsulate the essence of a home, and 1431 Dogwood Road is no exception. It’s a place of versatile and enjoyable living that combines comfort with refinement.
For more information, please contact Carolyn at 540.414.5332 or carolyn@realtorrn.com
Crisp mountain air. Foggy mornings. Steaming mugs of coffee. Autumnal hues on the mountainsides. Fresh apples. Scent of wood smoke curling from a chimney. Falling leaves. It is easy to fall in love with Virginia.
Fall is a beautiful time in Virginia-especially in the Shenandoah Valley. The mountainsides become a watercolor of autumnal hues, the valley floor and vineyards are wrapped in early morning fog, pumpkin patches and corn mazes pop up and you understand how the Blue Ridge Mountains got their name.
Fall is also a perfect time to buy a home in Virginia.
As the mornings become crisper and days shorter, sellers are often more motivated (who wants to keep up with an on-market home through the holiday season), and buyers have more wiggle room for negotiations. What does this mean for you? You may be able to negotiate closing costs or repairs. What this doesn’t equate to is a seller accepting a low-ball offer, but you may be able to make your money worker wiser and not harder for you. That is a win!
Inventory remains historically low in Virginia which means competition amongst buyers, especially in certain price points can be fierce. Traditionally, in the fall and early winter buyers tend to put their house hunting on hold (brrrr it is COLD outside), but bundle up, put on that scarf, and prepare to head outside. This can work in your favor! As a buyer, a chill in the air can mean that less competition. Let those cooler temps fuel your house hunt.
If falling leaves encourage you to turn over a new leaf and begin, or revitalize, your house hunting journey here in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas, reach out and let’s talk about finding you the perfect property. Let’s get outside, enjoy fantastic fall days and explore your options.
P.S. If your dream property isn’t nestled in the Shenandoah Valley and you are exploring other regions of the US, or even thinking about a Tuscan farmhouse, reach out and let’s talk-I have contacts around the world that can assist you in finding your perfect property.
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