Perspective and News On Northern Virginia Real Estate

Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program-The Checks Are in The Mail

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:35:27 -0600

After a long wait the checks are beginning to roll out for military families who qualify for assistance from the Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP).

Three weeks after the funds were made available the surviving spouse of a Fallen Warrior received her check. Then a check went out to an Air Force Major in Colorado and since then the checks have been rolling out on a regular basis. Each check issued means one of the thousands of military families impacted by the declining market value of their home comes one step closer to financial relief.

The expanded program has had a few holdups. First the funds part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 needed to be made available, then the program rules needed to be reviewed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and finally Congress need to pass HR 3548 to remove the 25% tax penality that was attached to the original rules.

Fortunately for those who have waited processing seems to be moving fairly quickly. Two of the Northern Virginia military families I am working with have received their benefits letters and we are finalizing the updates required by the HAP counselors.

For more information on the qualifications for the program you can review the eligibility requirements at the US Army Corps of Engineer website. If you are a military family in the Northern Virginia area who qualifies for the Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) then give me a call at 703-346-2213. As an agent experienced with the HAP program guidelines and processes I can help you navigate the requirements and get your home SOLD before your next PCS move.

Wordless Wednesday-Beach Sunsets Make You Pause and Say Thank You

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:39:02 -0600

After worrying that Hurricane Ida was about to ruin a planned beach wedding at Lido Key in FL this past weekend we all managed instead to have this view. No matter how many times you see a sunset the ones across the water always seem that much brighter and make you remember how great it is to celebrate life.

SOLD -Highest Priced Sale in the Newington Commons Community in 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:26:22 -0600

This past week my clients put the SOLD sign in the front yard of their Newington Commons townhouse in Lorton VA. The home had multiple contracts in under 72 hours and after final negotiations the home ended up closing at $240,000 the highest priced sale in the community this year.

The buyer's are a military family and the husband has been stationed in Iraq during the transaction and will be coming home to a great new house.

If you are thinking about selling your home in Newington Commons or any of the other great Lorton VA neighborhoods give me a call at 703-346-2213. Let's see how my creative marketing strategies might be able to help you put the SOLD sign in your yard.

Enjoy Charlestown One of Springfield (VA) Best Kept Secrets

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:59:34 -0600

Tucked just off the intersection of two major roads in Springfield is the townhouse community of Charlestown. With tree lined streets, community parks and easy access to shopping and commuter routes this secret neighborhood is well worth checking out.

One of the benefits of the Charlestown neighborhood is the outside maintenance that the HOA provides. Besides the lawn care, trash pickup and snow removal the HOA also paints the exterior trim of the townhouses on a three year cycle, replaces the roofs when needed and the brick walls that run around the perimeter of the backyards.

Commuting to the Pentagon is as simple as stepping outside your door and walking 2 to 3 blocks to Forrester Blvd. If you aren't picked up by a commuter looking for slugs then you can grab the 18G Metro Bus. If you take the 7:18 bus you will be at the Pentagon at 7:50. How great is that? If Fort Belvoir is your destination then the commute is also 30 minutes or less depending on stoplights!

Charlestown is located in the West Springfield HS Pyramid, both the elementary school and HS are within walking distance. Want to shop? If you are just going to get a few essentials you can walk to the Giant or Whole Foods, we used to do it all the time and while you are at the shopping center you can stop by Starbucks, Austin Grill or Chicken Out for bite to eat.

For those in the know Lake Accotink Park has a back entrance off of Carrleigh Parkway. Years ago the only way to get into the park from the neighborhood was to take a dangerous walk across the railroad tracks. Fortunately the Fairfax County Park Authority built an enclosed pedestrian bridge so now you can ride your bike or walk to the park safely. Once at the park there is a 3.75 mile trail around the 55 acre lake for you to run, bike or walk.

If you have orders to the area then give me a call at 703-346-2213 Let my team put our knowledge of the area to work for you. We've been in your shoes numerous times and know how to help you make a smooth transition to your new home.

The Quiet News from the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2009

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:04:25 -0600

With all of the hoopla surrounding the extension of the first time homebuyers tax credit as part of the "Unemployment Compensation Act of 2009" a small portion of the bill was overlooked.

Perhaps if you don't work with military families or aren't in a community that has faced a decline in home values you might not even known that H.R. 3548 saved military families who are using the expanded Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) a 25% up front tax penality when they sold their home.

For some families this has meant the difference from being able to take advantage of the benefits of the Department of Defense program or not. A 25% upfront tax penality is not money that all military families have lying around just waiting to give to give up. The other great news is that HAP files are processing and checks are being issued. Two of the homes that I have under contract for Northern Virginia military families eligible for HAP are on to the final stages of processing.

The other great news is that this bill also extended the opportunity for military families who have been stationed overseas for at least 3 months in 2009 the chance to take advantage of the first time home buyers tax credit.

Thanks to Congress for understanding the need to provide a way for those who serve our country to be able to make their next PCS move a bit less financially stressful.

If you are a military family living in the Northern Virginia area and are eligible for the expanded HAP benefits give me a call at 703-346-2213. I've been working with families in your situation this year and can help you navigate the process of understanding the Department of Defense HAP benefits and getting your home sold in our current market.

Springfield VA-Kings Park Cape Cod on Quiet Corner Lot

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 08:03:03 -0600

Photo Gallery

Living Room	Kitchen
Kitchne	Eating Space	Master Bedroom
Recreation Room	Screened Porch

Description

If you have been waiting for just the right home then your wait is over.
Nestled in the trees on a quiet corner lot in Kings Park this Cape Cod three level home offers plenty of space for your family and proximity to shopping,
commuting and recreation.

When you enter you notice the formal living with hardwood floors and wood burning fireplace. The updated kitchen offers 42” maple cabinets, new appliances and room for your table. Step out to the screened in porch and fenced backyard. The first floor also features a master suite with walk-in closet, dual vanities and bath.

The top level features three additional bedrooms and an updated bathroom.
The lower level features a nice size recreation room with recessed lights, laundry room and additional space which could be converted to more finished living space.

This home is ready for you to move in and enjoy. Take advantage of the extension of the first time homebuyers tax credit. This nice home won’t last long!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2
Year Built:	1965
Subdivision:	Kings Park
Lot Size:	1/4 acre
School District:	Lake Braddock
Square Footage:	2000
Agent Name:	Cindy Jones
Broker:	RE/MAX Allegiance
MLS #:	FX7199099

Location

5500 Kempton Drive Springfield VA 22151

vFlyer Id: 2933480

Pentagon Relocation-Welcome Defense Language Institute Graduates

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:29:44 -0600

As someone who has moved all around the world with the military the first few days after the PCS orders arrive the questions about housing, schools and shopping can lead to sleepless nights and the big question “where are we going to live?”

If you are finishing up your coursework at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey CA and your have PCS orders to the Pentagon then let me welcome you to the neighborhood! Most military personal headed to the base often choose to live in Northern Virginia close to public transportation and the famous "slug" lines. Whether you are going to buy or rent there are plenty of neighborhood options for you to choose from. The first thing you need to do is check the 2009 BAH rates for the Pentagon. Pentagon rates fall in the Washington District (DC053) and you can use zip code 22152 as an example.

If you are thinking of buying a home, the current Northern Virginia market provides you the chance to find a good value on a home. Many military personal are dusting off their VA Certificate of Eligibility and checking with local lenders about the options available to use their VA loans. Knowing what monthly payment you are comfortable with is important for looking at homes in neighborhoods that meet your price criteria.

Once you have determined your price range you have the option to start your search on-line to get an idea of the type of homes that are within your price range. There are a number of neighborhoods in Northern Virginia that have always been popular with military families stationed at the Pentagon including Kingstowne, Lorton and Lake Ridge. If you have school age children starting with information on local schools through the Fairfax County or Prince William County sites or the Great Schools website will also assist you in determining the right neighborhood for your family.

If you have decided to forgo a purchase on this tour of duty don't worry. I can also help you find a rental property in one of Northern Virginia's great neighborhoods as well.

The best way to get to know the area is to call on a Realtor® who not only has been through the stress of numerous military moves but is a native of the area. I’ve lived through the best and worst military moves and know how to help your family learn about Northern Virginia and find a neighborhood that you will want to call home while stationed at the Pentagon.

My military relocation network is at your fingertips through my on-line resources, on the phone and in person. Don’t lose sleep over your orders. I’m here to help you with a smooth transition!

Fort Belvoir Relocation-Enjoy A Great Selection of Woodbridge Neighborhoods

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:55:34 -0600

With the upcoming influx of military and civilian personnel scheduled to move to Fort Belvoir, newer neighborhoods in Prince William County are gearing up for Fort Belvoir employees arrival. All of these neighborhoods offer great value in today's market and they offer a choice for buyers which include foreclosures, new homes and re-sales.

The first community you find when you cross the Occoquan River is Belmont Bay. With its waterfront location, variety of home styles and communities amenities it isn't a surprise that this community has been discovered by military families being stationed at Fort Belvoir. If you walk the waterfront paths in the community you will be greeted with a smile and hello from everyone you pass. Kids love to run on the pavilion green and watch the boats coming and going from the gazebo by the docks. Commuters appreciate the quick hop onto Route 1 to head to Fort Belvoir or the VRE station right in the neighborhood to take them into Alexandria or DC.

As you travel a little further south on Route 1 your next stop is the award winning community of Potomac Club. The jewel of the neighborhood is the 12 million dollar community club house with both indoor and outdoor pools, rock climbing wall and business center. The townhouses and townhouse style condominiums are stacked up the hillside creating winding streets and pockets of green space. The newly opened Wegmans grocery store is within walking distance and there is easy access to either Route 1 or I-95.

Another mile down the road and you the final two developments on this tour of Prince William County neighborhoods perfect for BRAC. The first is Eagles Pointe and enclave of detached homes with another terrific community clubhouse. The detached homes are clustered on no-through streets and are separated from other nearby developments with a stand of full growth trees. Across the street is the community of Port Potomac. With a mixture of detached homes and townhouses the development features a Williamsburg style club house, pedestrian friendly streets and walking trails. The community has been popular with families looking for a location close to shopping and public transportation.

All of these neighborhoods are close to shopping at Potomac Mills, Wegman's and recreation at numerous state and local parks in the area.

If you have orders to Fort Belvoir then give theCindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213. Let our personal experience with military relocation help you find the right neighborhood to call home.No hassle, no pressure, just straight talk about today's real estate market and whether today is the right time for you to buy a new home.

Speechless Sunday-Honoring All of Those Who Lost Their Lives at Fort Hood

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:53:05 -0600

My thoughts go out to all of those who lost a loved one at this week's tragedy at Fort Hood. With the approach of Veteran's Day we need to remember that each headstone and flag at Arlington Cemetery represents a loved one who served our country honorably. Keep our troops both at home and at war in your thoughts this week.

©Cindy Jones 209

Speechless Sunday-Honey Did You Write Down the Number of Our Bus?

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:04:27 -0600

This is just a few of the buses lined up outside George Washington's Mount Vernon estate yesterday. With beautiful fall weather visitors from around the world come to take in the views of the Potomac River from the back porch and see how life was back in the 1700's in Virginia. If you are coming to the DC area for a visit make sure you put Mount Vernon on your list of places to visit. These folks did!

Springfield Oaks-Just a Hop, Skip and A Jump to Fort Belvoir and NGA

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:32:58 -0600

If you are headed to Fort Belvoir and are looking for a reasonably priced townhouse community where the developer left green space and clustered courtyards then check out Springfield Oaks in Fairfax County.

Situated on 18 acres of wooded and gently rolling terrain the 382 townhouses in Springfield Oaks are only 5 miles from Fort Belvoir. The community is also within 5 minutes of the Lorton Station VRE, about 15 minutes to the Springfield Metro or you can catch a Fairfax Connector or Metro bus at either entrance to the community

Having owned a townhouse myself in Springfield Oaks I knew how well the association worked to keep the neighborhood up to date and they have recently completed a brand new tot lot. The neighborhood is divided into two sections crossed by Alban Road. Both the upper and lower sections of the neighborhood share services including twice a week trash pickup, community leaf cleaning and snow removal.

Every year the community sponsors events to bring the neighbors together including ice cream socials, Easter egg hunts and Halloween parties. If you need a lesson on Oak tree species all you have to do is drive through the neighborhood and look at the street names including, Blue Oak, Chapman Oak and Pin Oak to realize how many types of Oak trees there are.

If you are headed to Fort Belvoir check out www.militaryrelocationnews.com or Fort Belvoir On-Line Relocation Guide for more information. Give the Cindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213 to chat. If you are in the area we can meet for coffee and talk about about whether this is the right time for you to buy a home. No hassle, no pressure, just straight talk about the home buying process property in today's market.

Springfield VA- Hang Your Crown in This Terrific New Kings Park Listing

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:28:10 -0600

Coming this weekend in Kings Park in Springfield (VA) a remodeled King model situated on a quiet corner lot. The former two small main level bedrooms have been combined into a master suite with huge walk-in closet, extra vanity and updated bath. Enjoy the completely remodeled kitchen with new cabinents, counters and appliances. Upstairs are three bedrooms and a remodeled bath. The lower level has a recreation room and huge storage area. Hardwood floors throughout the main and upper level of the home.

This terrific home will be priced at $389,000. Get your checkbooks ready!

Read more about the Kings Park neighborhood:

It isn't hard to figure out what the developer of the first Kings Park was planning when they laid out the plan for the community and the homes. With one look at the street names Thames, Victoria, Trafalgar and Cromwell among others you might think you have made a trip back to England. Then when you add the names of the five original models; King, Queen, Princess, Duke and Duchess, you realize absolutely there is a royal connection!

Our family bought our very first home in Kings Park in 1981. Having just returned from five years overseas we were anxious to settle down for awhile and having grown up in Springfield it was an easy choice to make the original Kings Park the place to buy our first "real home." We were attracted to the neighborhood due to the mature trees, green space parks, community pools and easy commuting to our jobs. With the gentle slope of our 1/3 acre lot we were able to set up a zip line between the top of the back yard and the back fence which became a neighborhood hangout for the under 5 age group!

Since the neighborhood was first built over 40 years ago it has been popular with military families looking for easy access to the Pentagon or Fort Belvoir. Children attend schools in the Lake Braddock School Pyramid and both Northern Virginia Community College and George Mason University are close by. Public bus transportation, a VRE station and slug lines are easy to get to from anywhere in the neighborhood. Homeowners can walk to the Kings Park Shopping Center and even the Kings Park Library branch of the Fairfax County Library System.

When you want to take a break you walk or ride your bike through two different "back" entrances to Lake Accotink or for anyone who likes the challenge of dirt biking the nearby trails through Wakefield Park are considered some of the best in the area. Wakefield Park is also the location for the Audrey Moore Recreation Center where you will find an indoor pool and popular fitness center. During the summer Lake Accotink Park hosts free Friday night summertime concerts which are an absolute hit with everyone. Music ranges through swing, jazz, pop and rock. If you haven't seen your neighbors for a few days chances are you will find them there with a picnic basket and folding chairs

If you are interested in learning more about Northern Virginia Relocation, local neighborhoods or things to do give the Cindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213. No hassle, no pressure, just straight talk about whether now is the right time for you to buy a home in Kings Park or any Springfield (VA) neighborhood.

Military Relocation-The Best Part of the Latest Tax Credit Extension

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:03:26 -0600

It includes the extension of the tax credit to military families who have been stationed outside the US for at least 3 months in 2009.

For qualifying families they have until June 30, 2011 to purchase a home a qualify for the tax credit.

Now that is good news!

Wordless Wednesday-Remnants of High Tide on The Occoquan River

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:55:35 -0600

These logs were washed up on the shore of the Occoquan River after days of rain and high tides. This pile of logs reminded me of an old split rail fence. Walking along the Occoquan River in Prince William County is a great way to relax on a crisp fall day.

Buying a "Pig in a Poke" in Northern Virginia

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:45:26 -0600

On the surface everything about this home looked good. Granite counters, stainless steel appliances, beautiful bathrooms, large lot, great price. What's not to love? Turns out this little gem was in reality a "pig in a poke."

A check of the Fairfax County Building Permit site found permits issued and all of them with an incomplete status next to them. Out of the permits that were pulled by electricians and plumbers we couldn't find any that said the remodeling work had passed inspection. Since the property is being sold "as is" chances are that it might not even have an occupancy permit for the new owner to be able to move in.

It is an issue that buyers in Northern Virginia face everyday when they look to purchase a foreclosure or short sale. Since most of these properties are sold "as is" you don't have many outs when it comes to discovering major defects.

If you see a home that is in the middle of a major remodel take a few minutes and check for building permits and inspections.

Alexandria City

Arlington County

Fairfax County

Prince William County

If you have questions most of the city and county government agencies are more than happy to answer them for you.

Before you buy a "pig in a poke" in Northern Virginia check to make sure that what you are buying won't be better as a tear down than a place to call home. If buying a new home in Northern Virginia is in your future give me a call at 703-346-2213. Let me help you navigate the murky waters of our current market. No hassle, no pressure just straight talk about whether now is the right time to buy a new home.

Applebee's Restaurants Offering Free Food to Veteran's on November 11, 2009

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:23:04 -0600

If you know an active duty military family or veteran then let them know to head to their local Applebee's Restaurant on November 11th to choose one of the six free dinners especially for them.

If you work with military families this is a great chance to send out a message and be in touch on Veteran's Day.

There isn't much else to say but thank you for all who are actively serving and those who have served our country.

Location of Applebee's Resaurants in Northern Virginia

LET'S EAT!

Fort Meyer in Arlington VA- Site of the First Commercial Airline Flights

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:02:56 -0600

When it comes to thinking about firsts and flying everyone immediately thinks of the Wright Brothers and Kitty Hawk. As well they should. However what many don't realize is that the Wright Brothers made what might be considered a more important flight in Arlington VA at the Fort Meyer Army Post.

The US Army Signal Corps wanted an aircraft that could hold two people and fly for at least one hour. The first test came in September 1908 when Orville Wright took up a two seater plane and circled the parade grounds at Fort Meyer 57 times. He then took a passenger up and flew for one hour and 12 minutes.

Later that week on another test flight Orville Wright and his passenger First Lt. Thomas Selfridge made another flight. That flight crashed killing Lt Selfridge, making him the first military flight casualty in the US.

The Signal Corps had one more requirement. The plane needed to fly at least 40 MPH. In July 1909 the Wright brothers came back to Fort Meyer and flew a course between Fort Meyer and Alexandria and hit an airspeed of 42.6 MPH. The US Government then ordered their first military and commercial aircraft. A production and test facility were established across the river in College Park Maryland.

Today as you pass Fort Meyer you see the spires of the Air Force Memorial honoring not only the men and women of the Air Force who have given their lives but also for the early pioneers of flight. Lt. Selfridge is buried in Arlington Cemetery close to the spot where his plane crashed. Fort Myer serves as home to the US Army School of Music and The Old Guard the army's ceremonial unit.

Short Sale Train Wreck Coming to Northern Virginia Soon

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:11:32 -0600

Short sales in the Northern Virginia market aren't new. They were around in previous down markets with a different twist. Sellers actually had to come to the money with the table to close the deal or sign a promissory note to cover the difference. Sellers sucked it up and did it in order to move on.

Today the amount of money that most sellers are upside down keeps that from being a realistic scenario. However there is a train wreck coming and it isn't about the number of short sales or a tsunami of foreclosures but instead the way real estate agents are handling the deals.

There are a lot of agents running around Northern Virginia suggesting they are "short sale experts" when in fact that don't even understand how a contract is written and ratified. Last week while working through multiple offers for buyers I encountered not one, not two but three agents who "ratified" contracts when the buyer's offer had clearly been countered by the seller.

In one cases the agent even wrote on the contract that instead of agreeing to our subsidy request that they would let the lender determine the amount. Say what? Anyone who works with short sales or foreclosures knows the lender will say ZERO if you give them an opportunity. This isn't a ratified contract but a counter offer. Yet this contract went to the bank as part of a short sale package.

It doesn't take much if you get a group of agents together to hear the horror stories of these types of examples and many far worse. There is going to be a major collision between agents who know what they are doing and agents who are unresponsive and far worse. It will be interesting to see the listing agent explain to their client when the home goes to foreclosure why the contract they thought was ratified in reality was not.

It is time for standards to be in place and enforced by the associations to keep the entire industry from getting a black eye. Otherwise the collision between the two sides that are forming among agents is not going to be pretty.

This post originally appeared on my blog VaRealEstateTalk

Speechless Sunday-Looking Down River in Belmont Bay

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:16:42 -0600

The view down the Occoquan River from the roof deck of River Club 1 in Belmont Bay. The roof deck is one of the reasons that River Club 1 has been a popular destination for buyers looking for a smaller condominium building in Belmont Bay. If you are interested in making Belmont Bay your home give me a call at 703-346-2213. Let me show you why som many of my buyers have decided to call this neighborhood home.

Springfield (VA) Greentree Village is More Than Just Bricks and Mortar

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:04:49 -0600

Greentree Village is what you might expect to see in a community in Fairfax County, Virginia. Located in West Springfield, the neighborhood seems typical of many in the area. Brick front townhouses backing to trees and grassy islands slow traffic down for the kids to be able to play safely. Across the street from the neighborhood is one of the 380 parks maintained by the Fairfax County Park Authority. A Fairfax County Connector bus stop is at the entrance to the neighborhood, within 15 minutes is the Springfield Metro, the Rolling Valley and Sydenstricker Slug Lines are all close by as well. Multiple shopping centers add to the appeal as well as being in the West Springfield HS Pyramid.

However the neighborhood also contains a little mystery as well. Tucked behind the basketball court protected by a wrought iron fence are three gravestones from the 1800's. One has the name Addison Keen and another one with the name Clarintine V. Close by you can also see a broken headstone for W. Keen. Unlike other historic graveyards in the area there are no markers to explain how these final resting places ended up in this location.

Anyone who drives through Springfield knows the main road is called Old Keene Mill and Greentree Village lies at an "L"to Old Keene Mill and Keen Road. So what part of the history of the area did the Keen family bring to this particular area? First of all there was a mill on the Pohick Stream that runs through the area and records show it was owned by William Keen. An 1850 census of the area shows that William Keen was 35 years old, married and his occupation was miller.

In 1855 William Keene was convicted of murdering another local man. Local history reports disagrees as to whether William Keen was legally convicted of the murder but he was sentenced to death by hang. Over the following years additional information came forward that perhaps there had been jury tampering which led to his conviction. In 1858 his death sentence was commuted to 10 years in prison by the governor of Virginia. However it is unknown what actually happened to him. Prison records were lost when parts of Richmond was burned during the Civil War. It is not known whether William Keen died in prison, was released or walked out along with all of the other prisoners in 1867.

Whatever the story it makes living in one of the 124 townhouses in Greentree Village just a bit more intriguing. So as you are wandering through your neighborhood in Fairfax County take a closer look around. There is an amazing amount of history tucked in very unusual places.

If a move to Springfield or anywhere in Northern Virginia is in your future give me a call at 703-346-2213. Let me help you find the neighborhood that is just right for your needs. No hassle, no pressure just straight talk about whether now is the right time for you to buy a new home.

Springfield (VA) Townes of Orange Hunt FSBO Under Contract

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:41:28 -0500

UNDER CONTRACT-Military Family Relocating to the Pentagon has Scooped up This Terrific Townhouse

If you have been waiting for the right opportunity to purchase an immaculate three level townhouse in the Townes of Orange Hunt in West Springfield then your wait is over.

Offered for sale through an exclusive FSBO arrangement with Cindy Jones of RE/MAX Allegiance this home in the Townes of Orange Hunt offers buyers a lot to like. Step into the foyer and notice the new gleaming hardwood floors which flow into an updated kitchen with adjoining eating space. The living room and dining room combination have new carpet and sliding glass doors that open up to a fenced yard that backs to a common area and woods. Upstairs are three nice size bedrooms and two full remodeled bathrooms. The lower level has a recreation room, third full bath and laundry room.

Located just minutes from the Rolling Valley commuter lot and within walking distance of both Fairfax County Connector and Metro buses, the home makes commuting into DC a breeze. The home is ideally situated for anyone stationed at Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon or any of the Military District of Washington Installations.

For families the townhouse is located within walking distance of Orange Hunt Elementary School and is part of the West Springfield HS pyramid, including Washington Irving Intermediate School. The Pohick library is less than a mile away and you can shop at a variety of grocery stores within a few mile.

This home is priced to sell at $299,000.

This home will not be offered for sale in the MLS and is only available to be shown directly to qualified buyers. If you are looking for a great townhouse then give Cindy Jones a call at 703-346-2213 to schedule your appointment to see this terrific property in the Townes of Orange Hunt.

If you are considering selling your home on your own give me a call to talk about how my marketing to military buyers relocating to Northern Virginia might put your home in the SOLD column.

Kingstowne and Fort Belvoir-The Good Neighbor Policy

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:28:49 -0500

We don’t always get to decide who are neighbors are going to be. We take our chances when we see new houses going up around us. Deciding to put out the welcome mat often helps pull your new neighbors in and makes them feel welcome. And this is case with Fort Belvoir and Kingstowne.

When the earth movers first arrived on a large expansive of dirt between Van Dorn and Beulah roads everyone waited with anticipation to see how the newest neighborhood would grow. And grow it has. Into a community divided into three villages made up of commercial and residential space including 5300 hundred residences. With two main streets that lead to the gates at Fort Belvoir the connection between the two communities has grown. Many owners in Kingstowne also work at Fort Belvoir either as active duty Army assigned to the post or as civilians supporting the Army’s mission.

For military families who decide to live in Kingstowne they can take advantage a variety of recreation options including 18 tot lots, three multi-purpose courts, almost 22 miles of hiking and biking paths, and community centers which offer swimming pools and a fitness center. There is a wide selection of eating options in the neighborhood including Bone Fish Grill, The Noodle Company, Panera Bread, Chipotles and King Street Blues. With the addition of the new AMC movie theater complex and the close by miniature golf course it easy to see why Kingstowne continues to be a popular neighborhood for military families to live.

Besides its location close to Fort Belvoir another key to success of the neighborhood is the easy access to two metro stations within a short distance of the neighborhood. Some residents can walk to the Springfield Metro or take a quick drive to the Van Dorn Street Metro Station which makes the neighborhood popular with military families who need to get to the Pentagon or other Military District of Washington sites besides Fort Belvoir.

With the upcoming influx of BRAC personnel the works both Kingstowne and Fort Belvoir will see even more growth in the future. Hopefully the great relationship that has already been forged between the two neighborhoods will continue to grow with the expansion of Fort Belvoir’s mission.

Springfield (VA) Drivers-Prepare For More Aggravation

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 06:53:19 -0500

The 7 year project to upgrade the Springfield Interchange is barely behind us and now the extension of the Fairfax County Parkway will once again make Springfield commuting a challenge.

Starting in a few weeks the Fullerton Road exit off of I-95 (166B) will be closed. If you are a local commuter who likes to sneak off the I-95 at this exit when southbound traffic is stacked up you will now need to remember to get off at the Backlick Rd exit instead.

A study done by VDOT during the morning peak, an average of 345 vehicles an hour travel along the two lane Fullerton Road to Rolling Road. That becomes 873 an hour at the afternoon peak. On southbound Backlick Road, you will find 1,776 vehicles an hour in the morning peak and 2,918 in the p.m. peak.

Anyone who has sat in the traffic in Springfield knows the extension to the parkway and providing an exit directly from the Parkway to I-95 is sorely needed. With the influx of 21,000 personnel to Fort Belvoir area unraveling the roads around Springfield is a major priority for the VDOT. The parkway project is Virginia's largest Recovery Act project.

If staying off the roads in Northern Virginia during another road construction project appeals to you then check out :

Northern Virginia Commuting

If you have PCS orders to Fort Belvoir or moving to the area as part of BRAC give me a call at 703-346-2213. No hassle, no pressure just straight talk about the Northern Virginia housing market and a few hints about local back roads.

The 4 letter word that will send buyers out the door

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:09:42 -0500

At a "we need to let off steam" session at ReBar Camp DC this week a group of us started telling tales of houses we had seen. There was a recurring theme of flea infestations and the results of spening time showing homes with these pesky little creatures.

This post contains great information to remind everyone that to kill the flea circus in your house you need to take care of them from eggs to adult. Flea infestations are not limited to rural properties but can happen in the city as well. Foreclosures are prime candidates since the pets and people have moved on leaving the fleas hungry for anyone who walks in the door.

Via Kathryn Gorham Emerald Isle NC Crystal Coast (Green Key Properties):

The 4 letter word that will send buyers out the door as fast as they can go and never look back. This is a word that Real Estate educator, Bill Gallagher, spoke about last week in our Mandatory Update class and had everyone laughing. Yesterday when it happened to me I was NOT laughing. That 4 letter word is FLEA. The size of a spec of dust these little creatures have the power to turn me into a gyrating, gasping, goofy lady slapping at her clothes and grasping for seemingly non-existent somethings as they jump out of my way.

The flea was a funny matter last week as Bill Gallagher talked about an agent in her white pantyhose - fleas love the color white - entering a home infested with fleas only to turn and escort her buyers outside and returning to remove her pantyhose and leave them on the floor. He went on making the room laugh again and again as he made his points hit home. Oh his words came to mind again for me yesterday, but I wasn't laughing. I was trying to pinch the little critters between my thumb and forefinger -- mostly unsuccessfully -- before they could jump away.

Facts about fleas:

They can jump as high as 4 feet

They feed on blood

They can live up to 100 days without food in the coccoon stage unfed

Once fed they live 3 to 4 months

Once feed a female can lay up to 2000 eggs during her life

Female lays eggs within 36-48 hours of a meal

Gestation period is 14 days

Only 5% of fleas found in a dwelling will be on the pet

Very tiny up to 1/8 inch in size

They can bite up to 400 times a day

When you treat for fleas you must take into account all 4 stages of a flea from adult, young (hide in a cocoon until food is near), larvae and the egg stage. Most sprays will not penetrate the cocoon. The cocoon is a shell used by the young where they hide inside until a warm meal passes by then they "unzip" and hop on for a bite. Once fed they reproduce and the cycle starts over again. In addition to treating you should vacuum every day and a half to two days for at least two weeks (gestation period) to pull up all the cocoons and eggs. You must either toss the bag after each vacuuming or add moth balls to the bag. Moth balls? Well it has been used for years to kill the larvae of moths in your closet so why not the larvae of fleas in your vacuum cleaner bag. Now your house won't smell like a spring breeze, but if it does the trick you'll be sighing with relief as you inhale that pungent scent.

Now to complete my story of yesterday. I had to measure the inside of a new listing. It is a fixer upper to say the least. The owner resides outside the area and recently had a non-paying tenants that had to be evicted. Bonnie, my dog, was in the car because I don't take her into property, but when I got to the door to unlock it -- it was slightly ajar. With no power on and the bad tenant history I went back to the car and got Bonnie dog out and took her in with me.

Well believe it or not I did NOT notice the fleas until we had measured and returned to the office. Then they were jumping on and off me as I sat at my computer. I had to go into the bathroom take off my top and pick off the fleas. The were on my "white" socks under my jeans. I even picked a couple off Bonnie's face. Figuring I didn't want them infesting the office I went to Ace Hardware and got a couple of bombs and let them off and headed home to brush Bonnie figuring it couldn't be that bad right. Keeping her outside I began brushing, but after finding a half dozen fleas crawling on her we headed for the tub and a flea bath. A shampoo, 30 dead fleas and a final coating of flea dip later she was briskly running around to thank me. Next we washed her bed from the office and just for good measure the one from home too. I have a healthy (or unhealthy) dose of bites myself and would love to douse my body in some flea dip if it would help the itching!

Beware of this four letter word as you enter vacant dwellings! FLEA

See my article on: Bill Gallagher teaches at the Crystal Coast for some Halloween Fun

Kathryn Gorham | Green Key Properties | Emerald Isle North Carolina
2010 President Women's Council of REALTORS® Crystal Coast Chapter
252.646.4656 cell · 252.354.7007 office
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The 4 letter word that will send buyers out the door - FLEA - was fist published on Emerald Isle Carolina
Copyright © 2009 by Kathryn Gorham, All Rights Reserved. Permission granted to re-blog or re-print with the stipulations that you do not alter the original content and that you provide a link back to this article in the re-blog or re-print. *The 4 letter word that will send buyers out the door - FLEA*

Wordless Wednesday-Witches Caldron Waiting for a Bubbling Brew

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:32:23 -0500

During the month of October you can enjoy Ghost tours at Country Morning at 203 Washington St open daily to 5 pm or call 703 494 6983. Tours October 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31, 2009 at 7 and 8:30 pm.

Read more about Historic Occoquan in Prince William County VA