☕  A Note from Lisa

I know y'all have probably been wondering where I've been.

February and March were a whirlwind — taxes, reflecting on last year, trying to be a rockstar for my clients (and I have some pretty amazing ones), and of course… an impromptu trip I'll tell you about in a minute. Let's just say I was a bit of a hot mess there for a while.

But I'm back. And it feels really good.

April has a way of doing that, doesn't it? The windows are open, the days are longer, and everything just feels a little lighter. I'd love to say I have it all together… but let's just say I'm moving forward one cup of coffee at a time.

✈️  Dallas, Mindy, and a Few F-Bombs at 30,000 Feet

Anyone who knows me knows I do not love to fly. Takeoff is where things go sideways — I may or may not drop the occasional F-bomb. I always think I'm saying it in my head… but apparently it doesn't always stay there. - My bad!

Mindy and I spent the weekend walking a lot, laughing even more, and soaking up some really good reminders of just how good God is — and how great life can be when we actually slow down enough to notice it. We came home with full hearts and a renewed sense of purpose — both personally and in business.

And funny enough,- That same fresh energy is exactly what I'm feeling in the real estate market right now too.

Spring Market is Finally Here

Spring has arrived in the Shenandoah Valley and the market is doing exactly what it does this time of year — waking up fast.

More homes are hitting the market, buyers are getting back out there, and well-priced homes that show well are not lasting long. If you've been thinking about selling, this is your window — buyers are motivated and ready to act. If you're buying, there are more opportunities now than we've seen in months, and a little strategy goes a long way.

Either way — I'm here. Just holler. ☕

  What's Happening in the Valley This Month

  Plant Swap & Spring Vendor Event — April 25th

Revercomb Farms and Open Door Homestead are teaming up for a fun spring event featuring a plant swap and local vendors. Perfect way to spend a Saturday morning! Check it out at revercombfarms.com for free farm events.

  Shenandoah Valley Music Festival

If you haven't been — you need to go. Grab a lawn chair, a bottle of wine, and enjoy incredible music from bygone eras under the open sky. Tickets and the full performance schedule are available at musicfest.org.

  BBQ Chicken Season is HERE!

Y'all… it's that time of year and I am here for it! Check your local BBQ pits for their schedule and go support your community — and your taste buds. 

☕  Until Next Time…

Whether you're house hunting, home dreaming, or just here for the BBQ chicken updates — I'm so glad you're part of this little community we've built together.

As always, if you ever need anything — real estate, decorating opinions, or just a good laugh — you know where to find me.

Warmly,

Lisa Hensley

Hensley Realty Group

Making dreams come true, one home at a time ☕

I love January. It feels like a fresh start and a new beginning. I usually begin making my lists sometime in mid-December — ideas, goals, things I want to accomplish in the year ahead — and by the time January arrives, those plans are already in motion.

Still, there's something special about this month. Writing in my planner for the first time, celebrating my first new listing of the year, checking off those early wins — January makes everything feel like a "first." And even when they aren't truly firsts, this season gives them that feeling anyway.

This year's "first" is a beautiful Broadway home that's just come on the market — you can read more about it below.

Firsts have always been my favorite, and January has a way of reminding me why.

A Lesson Remembered

Recently, I had the pleasure of showing homes to a young woman relocating here from out of state. She arrived with her mom and dad — warm, gracious people I truly enjoyed spending the afternoon with.

Somewhere between the second and third house, I was reminded of something I hadn't thought about in a while: the mama bears. The moms who watch their babies step out into the world, doing everything they can to be sure they're safe, supported, and choosing a place that truly feels like home.

Her mom was thoughtful and thorough, looking at each home from top to bottom with the kind of care only a mother can give. As I walked beside them, I found myself wanting to reassure her that we would make the very best choice for her daughter — because in that moment, her daughter felt like my daughter too.

I can imagine exactly how that feels. I remember when my own daughter left home to attend college out of town. That mix of pride, worry, excitement, and letting go stays with you.

Today was a gentle reminder of the trust families place in me, and it's a responsibility I never take lightly.

Holiday Reality (and a Little Trash Talk)

The Winner!

The holidays are officially over. I would love to say I love them, but if I'm being honest, they can feel a little overwhelming to me.

I'm already a busy person, and then December shows up with shopping, Christmas gatherings, more shopping (and if I mentioned that twice, it's because it truly feels like that's all I've been doing), food, and somehow fitting it all into an already packed schedule. And then there's the annual gingerbread house contest.

I'd like to tell you that my family is calm, well-behaved, helpful, and supportive — cheering each other on in an orderly, festive way. I'd also like to say they're neat, focused, and that I don't spend weeks afterward finding tiny candy balls under the furniture.

But that wouldn't be true.

In reality, it's a full-on throwdown. A couple of hours of pure chaos. There's trash talk. There are catastrophes. Houses fall over. It almost always involves "lakes," which somehow means someone is attempting to fill aluminum-foil ponds with actual water. There are toddlers. There are choking hazards. And every established rule immediately goes out the window. 

You can watch a little of the crazy below and just so you know, Pete is almost 13, suffers from a little evening demensia and barks nonstop when hes excited....  Sorry, but its part of our crazy.  

Watch after you finish reading!
This short clip is just below — scroll back when you're done with the newsletter to watch it.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qv1zyraJqDw

Over the years, I've learned a few things that make the holidays a little easier for me.

First, I try not to stress as much. The house doesn't have to be spotless. It feels a little silly to spend a week cleaning for a couple of hours of candy-flinging fun. These days, I clean after the fun.

Second, I don't try to pull this off on Christmas Day. My kids are busy with families of their own, and I've learned to be okay with waiting a week. In fact, now I insist on it. Christmas Day — and usually a day or two after — is time I protect. Time to collect myself, relax, sleep in, and enjoy quiet mornings with coffee alongside Ken and my babies (those of you who know me know exactly who I mean). I've become a little selfish with my time, and I've learned that's not a bad thing.

Third, and most importantly, I try to remember what this season is truly about. The reason for the season. A baby born in a manger — a story that continues to shape my faith and remind me what really matters.

And one last thing that I found extremely helpful: I stopped trying to do it all in the kitchen. I bought premade food from Costco, put it in the oven, and — voilà — dinner. It was good, it was easy, and most importantly, it took the stress out of my day. Sometimes the simplest solutions really are the best ones.

And one more thing before we move on — congratulations to Mindy for winning the decorating contest. She definitely puts a lot of thought into her designs, and it shows. I may be a little biased, but I love watching her creativity come to life.

And Now, On to Business

A beautifully maintained, one-owner home in one of Broadway's most sought-after neighborhoods is now on the market.

This is a beautiful, one-owner home that has been lovingly and thoughtfully maintained over the years. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, the home also offers a full, partially finished walkout basement, providing flexible space for living, working, or entertaining.

Located in one of Broadway's most desirable subdivisions, this home combines space, condition, and location — a combination that's always in demand.

Offered at $500,000

If you have questions or would like to schedule a showing, I'm happy to help.

January Market Snapshot

January typically brings a slower, more thoughtful pace to the real estate market, and that's exactly what we're seeing as the new year begins. Buyer activity is more measured, inventory is adjusting, and pricing is becoming more strategic.

What's encouraging is that we're beginning to see early signs of a shift toward a more balanced market. Buyers are gaining a bit more breathing room, while sellers who price well and prepare thoughtfully are still seeing strong interest.

By the Numbers | January

Buyer activity: Slower, with more serious, motivated buyers
Inventory: Gradually increasing compared to late fall
Days on market: Slightly longer than peak spring and summer
Pricing trend: Stabilizing; well-maintained homes continue to stand out
What's ahead: Momentum traditionally builds as we move closer to spring

I'm genuinely excited for this new year. It feels full of possibility, and I truly believe great things are ahead — for my family, my business, and the community I'm grateful to serve.

Thank you, as always, for being here and for allowing me to be a small part of your journey. Whether this is the year you make a move or simply a year of planning and watching, I'm always happy to be a resource.

Here's to fresh starts, meaningful moments, and a year full of possibility.

Warmly,
Lisa Hensley, Realtor®
Hensley Realty Group
540-405-1606
hensleyhomesva.com

With Christmas just around the corner, life feels a little fuller — calendars are packed, homes are buzzing, and everything seems to move a bit faster. I hope you're finding a few quiet moments to enjoy the season. Here's what's happening locally, along with a snapshot of our real estate market as we head toward the end of the year.

Market Update

The real estate market typically slows during the holidays, and we're seeing some of that seasonal shift now. Homes are still selling, but buyers are taking a little more time and inventory changes tend to happen at a gentler pace than earlier in the fall.

What This Means for You:
For buyers, this can be a great time to explore options with less competition. For sellers, thoughtful pricing and presentation matter more than ever — serious buyers are still out there, but they're being more selective.

Recently Closed

Trayfoot Road – Finally Closed
Some homes take the scenic route, and Trayfoot Road was one of them — but we're happy to say it has officially closed. A great reminder that patience, strategy, and steady communication still get deals to the finish line, even in a shifting market.

Under Contract

Crystal Springs Lane – Townhome
This townhome on Crystal Springs Lane is now under contract, a great example of how well-positioned homes are still attracting buyers even as the market slows for the holidays.

Featured Listing

Shapeshifter Lane – Where Your Dream Home Begins

If you've been waiting for the right place to build something truly your own, Shapeshifter Lane offers the space, setting, and flexibility to bring that vision to life. Set in a peaceful, scenic area, this land invites you to slow down and imagine what "home" could look like when it's designed entirely around you.

Why buyers love this location:

• A quiet setting that feels tucked away, yet remains convenient to nearby towns

• Room to design a custom home that fits your lifestyle, including outdoor living spaces

• The freedom to create a place that grows with you, whether it's a forever home or a peaceful retreat

• A rare opportunity to start with a blank canvas and build with intention

➡️ View details here: Shapeshifter Lane – Where Your Dream Home Begins

Questions about building, utilities, or next steps? I'm happy to help you explore what's possible.

Holiday Happenings Around the Valley

There's still plenty of Christmas magic happening locally if you're looking for something festive to do:

• Live Nativity in Port Republic
  A beautiful, traditional live nativity experience that has become a meaningful holiday stop for many families in the Valley.

• Christmas at the Farm Store – Fulks Run
  A great place to find local goods, holiday treats, and enjoy having your picture taken with Santa.

• Make & Take Saturdays at Revercomb Farms
  A hands-on holiday experience where you can create something special to take home — perfect for families, friends, or a cozy weekend outing.

A Little Life Lately

December always reminds me how quickly life moves and how important it is to pause when we can. In the middle of the busyness, it's also a time to reflect on the reason for the season — a reminder of hope, peace, and gratitude.

As Christmas approaches, I hope your days are filled with meaningful moments, time with the people you love, and a little extra grace for yourself and others.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas.

Need Anything?

If you're thinking about buying, selling, or just curious what your home might be worth heading into the new year, I'm always happy to help.

Lisa Hensley, Realtor®
Hensley Realty Group
540-405-1606
Lisa@Lisahensleyhomes.com
hensleyhomesva.com

The last couple of weeks have been full — which probably doesn't surprise anyone who knows me. I tell myself I'm going to slow down, but the truth is… I don't think I'm wired that way. I've always got a project going, a plan forming, or an idea I'm chasing down.

And let's be honest — my dogs fully expect to maintain the lifestyle they've grown very accustomed to, so somebody has to keep things moving around here.

Busy or not, I'm grateful to do the things I love — helping people, creating, planning, dreaming — and sharing little pieces of it with you each month.

Coming Up: Something Fun at Revercomb Farms

I've got something new on my calendar, and this one makes me laugh a little every time I think about it. My daughter Mindy — who owns Revercomb Farms — usually runs a full schedule of community workshops. She stays just as busy as I do, which is probably genetic at this point.

Well, she and her husband Bobby are heading out of town on a weekend when she already had a workshop planned… and she handed the reins right to me.

So yes, I'll be teaching a tea towel painting class.
Never painted a tea towel in my life — not once — but that didn't stop me from immediately going into full planning mode. Before she finished her sentence, I had Pinterest open, supply lists started, and stencils downloading.

Mindy very gently reminded me, "Mom… these workshops are supposed to be simple and family-affordable."
Translation: 'We both know how you get with projects… rein it in.'"

So I scaled it back… just a little.

We've landed on a project that's easy, fun, and won't require a second mortgage in craft supplies. I'll share the details soon — including the date and maybe a sneak peek once I practice and see if I'm actually any good at this.

Real Estate Insight: Lenders, Appraisals, Last-Minute Stress… and a Fever Blister

The past few months have handed me one of the most complicated transactions I've dealt with in a long time. And before I say anything else, let me be clear — I have wonderful clients. Truly. They've handled every twist with patience and grace, and I couldn't ask for better people to walk through this with.

Everything started smoothly… until it didn't.
We went through three lenders, multiple loan programs, and three appraisals — each time thinking we were finally on track, only to be met with another surprise that should have been caught weeks earlier.

One lender refused to lend on Agricultural zoning (which almost every property in the county sits on). Another approved the buyers, only to later discover a rule that made their loan impossible. And somewhere between lender #2 and lender #3, I earned the fever blister that I'm still trying to get rid of.

Through it all, the buyers stayed committed, the sellers stayed patient, and I kept following up, pushing forward, and trying to hold all the moving pieces together — no matter how many pieces there were.

This was one of those moments in real estate where you have to make a choice.
You can panic, lose your cool, and let the chaos run the show — or you can take a breath, stay focused, and keep making steady, clear decisions based on what's truly best for your clients. I chose the second path (with a few deep breaths along the way). Keeping calm and staying centered is what gets everyone through a transaction like this.

And how does this story end?
I'll share the final chapter in my next newsletter.

Lesson: Real estate isn't always smooth sailing, but with the right preparation, the right questions, and the right team, you can get through the surprises without losing hope — or your sanity.

Local Holiday Events – December

Here are a few festive happenings around Elkton and Rockingham County:

• Town of Elkton – Old Town Christmas & Tree Lighting — December 6

• Harrisonburg Holiday Parade — December 6

• Rockingham County Fairgrounds Christmas Village — December 20–21

• Bridgewater Christmas Parade — December 7

These are just a few highlights; check local pages for more events throughout the season.

Last Month's Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Barbie-Kenney Snuffin, the winner of our last giveaway!
Thank you to everyone who entered.

A Little Holiday Reminder

As we enjoy the season, it's also a good time to remember those in our community who could use a little extra support. Consider adopting an Angel Tree child, dropping a few dollars in a Salvation Army kettle, or delivering a warm meal to a family that may be struggling.

And let's not forget the older folks in local residential homes — many don't have family nearby and may not receive anything at all for the holidays. A small card, a simple gift, or a visit can mean more than you know.

Small gestures make a big difference this time of year.

Your Referrals Mean the World

If you have a friend, family member, or coworker who's thinking about buying or selling, I'd be honored to help them.
Your referrals are truly the heart of my business and the greatest compliment you can give.

Thank you for trusting me — and for sharing my name with the people you care about.

Move-In Ready Townhome in Taylor Springs Subdivision — $309,900

Move-in ready with fresh updates throughout and ready for new owners, this beautiful townhome in the desirable Taylor Springs Subdivision has so much to offer. Inside, you'll find new paint, new flooring, new appliances, and updated bathroom fixtures throughout. A full unfinished basement and single-car garage add great storage and potential for future expansion.

Located just minutes from shopping, dining, and Sentara RMH, you'll love the convenience as much as the updates.

What I love about this home: It's rare to find a townhome this move-in ready in Taylor Springs — a true gem at this price point.

At $309,900, this one won't last long — call me today before it's gone!

Sometimes in a Busy Life, You Have a Wedding

**It's a reminder that even when life feels nonstop, there are moments worth slowing down for — the ones filled with love, laughter, and a little organized chaos.    ❤️❤️❤️

Planning a wedding is chaotic — planning one on a working farm is an adventure all its own. And when you're planning a wedding with Jacob and Emily, you never quite know what to expect. Could be twenty guests… could be seventy. We've learned to just smile, show up, and roll with it.

After weeks of cleaning out the barn, planning the menu, decorating, and making the food, we were as ready as we could be — considering we had no idea who all was coming.

Last Sunday, we traded real-estate calls and to-do lists for hay bales, boots, and beautiful moments as we celebrated their wedding with family and friends. The reception took place right in the barn — plenty of ventilation, plenty of charm, and more than a few chilly guests by the end of the night.

This day was all about photos, laughter, and a gathering of the people who love them most.

But the day went off without a hitch — well, almost. Let's just say a pair of pigs decided it was the perfect time for their own romantic moment in the background of the formal photos, and the dog helped himself to a little icing off the cake. But hey, it's a working farm.

By the Numbers: Harrisonburg & Rockingham County Market Snapshot — October 2025

• Harrisonburg: Median sale price ≈ $318,500, up ~15.8% year-over-year

• Harrisonburg: Median days on market ≈ 13 days

• Rockingham County: Median sale price ≈ $348,395, down ~5.6% year-over-year

• Rockingham County: Homes sold in a median of 25 days

• Harrisonburg: Typical home value ≈ $341,753, up ~4.1% this year

Source: Redfin & Zillow local market data, October 2025

What This Means for You

Homes around Harrisonburg are selling quickly and appreciating, showing strong buyer demand.
Rockingham County is holding steady with slightly lower prices — a welcome sign for buyers who've been waiting for value.

If you're thinking about selling, the market is still moving fast for well-prepared homes.
And if you're buying, be ready to act decisively — the good ones don't last long.

☕ Keys & Coffee Market Tip: When's the Best Time to Buy?

While spring often steals the spotlight, fall and early winter can actually be some of the best times to buy a home. There's usually less competition, sellers are often more motivated, and you might even catch a better deal before year-end.

If you've been waiting for the right moment — this could be it.
Just remember, preparation is everything: have your financing ready, know what you want, and be ready to move when the right property pops up.

Local Happenings

Soon it will be time to switch gears from pumpkins and fall markets to twinkle lights, holiday music, and Christmas craft shows! The Valley will start to sparkle with festive events — from handmade markets to local open houses — and it's the perfect season to shop small and support your neighbors.

Before we jump into the holidays, a big congratulations to Denise Waltemyer, winner of last month's Fall Mum Giveaway!

One of my favorite things to do as the holiday season starts to get busy is to visit local craft and vendor shows. It's important to shop local — not just for the unique, handmade gifts, but for the people behind them.

If you're looking for that festive hometown feel, don't miss Revercomb Farms — they always go all-out for the season! From local goods and handmade gifts to their upcoming holiday events, it's a wonderful place to find something unique (and maybe a little something for yourself, too).

Real Estate Tip: Make the Most of the Season

If you're thinking about selling, fall and early winter can be a hidden gem of opportunity.
With fewer homes on the market, well-presented listings stand out even more — and buyers this time of year tend to be serious and ready to move.

This is also a great time to update your exterior photos if your home has beautiful seasonal curb appeal.
A front porch with mums, pumpkins, or twinkle lights can make your listing feel warm and inviting — just the touch that catches a buyer's eye.

November Giveaway

This month's giveaway comes straight from my sewing room — a handmade gift created with care (and maybe a few happy threads from Pete's fur mixed in for good luck). It'll be something festive, cozy, and made with love — just in time for the holidays.

To enter, comment "November" on my latest Keys & Coffee Facebook post here.

And don't forget to sign up for the Keys & Coffee Newsletter so you don't miss future giveaways and local stories!
 Sign up here

Winner will be announced in the next issue!

Until Next Time

As the holidays start to fill our calendars, I hope you take a few quiet moments to slow down, soak it all in, and enjoy the little things — a cozy blanket, a cup of coffee, or time spent with the people (and pets) you love most.

Until next time, may your coffee be strong, your days be merry, and your heart stay full.

With gratitude,

Ken and Lisa

Lisa Hensley, Realtor®
Hensley Realty Group

540-405-1606

Lisa@LisaHensleyHomes.com
www.HensleyHomesVA.com

This past week has been exciting! I'm thrilled to share that the log cabin in Grottoes is now under contract, and the land in Keezletown just closed with a full-price contract. Fall is already shaping up to be a busy season, and I'm looking forward to bringing a new townhome listing in Taylor Springs to the market in the next week or two. If you happen to know someone who's been looking for a place like this, I'd love to connect and show them around.

In between all of that, I toured a home with the coziest screened-in porch. I instantly pictured a cup of coffee, a good book, and the sound of crickets in the background. Homes don't just give us shelter — they give us moments like that, the kind that make you stop and breathe a little deeper.

 Helpful Tip of the Week

Y'all know I've been working on a few little updates around my own home while trying not to break the bank — and honestly, it's the same advice I give clients who are getting ready to sell. The truth is, sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. And the best part? Many of them can be done with very little out-of-pocket cost.

Here are a few of my favorite budget-friendly ways to boost your home's value (and love it a little more while you're there!):

5 Budget-Friendly Ways to Boost Your Home's Value

1. Add a fresh coat of paint in light, neutral colors.

2. Swap out or update tired light fixtures.

3. Create a tidy, inviting entryway

4. Freshen up curb appeal with Mulch and seasonal flowers.

5. Declutter and give everything a deep clean (the cheapest update of all!).

Little changes like these can make your home feel refreshed right now — and give you a head start if you ever decide to sell. Not sure where to start? Let's chat — sometimes it's easier to walk through the options together.

 Local Happenings – September

         (Click the links below for event details!)

• Elkton Autumn Days Festival – Sept 28–29

• Friday Night Live in Harrisonburg – Sept 6

• Shenandoah Valley Farm Tour – Explore local farms

Weekly Giveaway

Congratulations to this week's winner Angie Ward-Mueller you'll be enjoying a gift certificate to Kline's Dairy Bar . Nothing says Shenandoah Valley like a scoop (or two!) from Kline's!

Want to be next week's winner? Just hit reply to this email and tell me your favorite fall tradition. That's it — you're entered!