Welcome to My Site!

I have been a REALTOR since May 2005, and work mainly by referral. That is a choice I made some time ago, and it has worked out well for me. I have always believed in providing a level of service that gets me recommended by my clients.
Prior to Real Estate, I was a commercial insurance agent for 5 years starting with Erie Insurance and ending with Nationwide Insurance. Part of what I loved about being an insurance agent is helping people protect their assets and livelihood. That�s also a big part of why I love being a REALTOR. Additionally, the training I received as an insurance agent really helps me in Real Estate. I know what to look for in distressed homes, how to find problems that have been covered up and have a good handle on what it costs to repair a home.
Before I went into insurance, I spent 5 years as a Loan Officer. Naturally that skill set is a huge benefit to my clients. I know mortgages inside and out, and have a firm understanding of how bond markets affect rates, the best loan programs for my clients and know how to tell if you�re paying too much in closing costs. Probably the most helpful skill I learned in my career as a Loan Officer was how to help people budget.
Now you may want to know a little about my personal life. I am married with a 5 year old son. We are a very close knit family, and part of that has to do with my son Raymond�s challenges. He has high functioning autism and dyspraxia, so I spend a good deal of time taking him to school, therapy and doing home therapy to help him grow and develop. My wife works as well, so we take turns helping him so we can each maintain our careers. I also have a few hobbies.
I write a real estate blog, which is online at www.raynelsonrealestate.com. I also write an autism blog about my son. You can read that at www.raynelsonrealtor.wordpress.com. I have also organized a play group for kids with Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders. That came about mainly because I felt that kids on the autism spectrum should have the same opportunities to make friends as kids who are neurotypical. If you are interested in that or know someone who is has a child and wants to participate please send me an email. We are up to 10 families! Additionally, I play drums in a rock band called The Tin Foil Five, and you can check us out at www.myspace.com/thetinfoilfive if you are interested. I also enjoy playing golf, although I can�t seem to shoot under 100. Finally, I love fine dining, wine tasting, beer tasting and spending time with good friends.

Thanks for stopping by,
Ray Nelson
540-220-8539
ray.nelson@exit-fredericksburg.com