Northern Virginia's Condo Expert serving Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church, Fairfax County

No justification for traitorous murders ...

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:45:59 -0600

Nidal Malik Hasan's country gave him everything he had and under no theory does it make sense for him to shoot his comrades-in-arms and fellow countrymen.

This man sickens and disgusts me. I can't see his face without cursing him. I'm outraged by those who rationalize and justify his form of evil.

Anyone who has ever been in the military knows that this man plotted the deaths of his fellow soldiers. Non-combat personnel do not have easy access to weapons, especially weapons off the firing range. He had to acquire his weapons from our arsenal through deceit and planning. Then he had to assemble several magazines full of ammunition, most likely by ordering or purchasing rounds off-base. (Ammunition is strictly inventoried on posts like his.) Thus, he did not snap from pressure. He most assuredly planned a mass murder.

It's preposterous to think that he "caught" post-traumatic stress disorder as a contagion. It's not called post-contact-with-others-who-have-been-under-stress-disorder. One must actually suffer trauma to be post-trauma.

It's disgusting to justify his actions or to rationalize his murderous rage because this is a "different war". This war is no more politically tortured than Vietnam. This war is no where near as deadly as any American battlefield ever. No hippy draft-dodger opted to grab an automatic weapon rather than run for Canada. No American GI started firing rounds on his buddies when he learned that he was on his way to D-Day.

It's a moral outrage to claim that his actions are justified because he is a Muslim who didn't want to kill Muslims. The boxer Muhammad Ali went to jail as a conscientious objector. He did not kill Americans. In WW2, American Christians and German Christians did not turn their weapons upon their comrades because they didn't want to kill Christians. General Eisenhower was a German-American who like many other German-Americans and Japanese-Americans served his country honorably without considering the idea of killing Americans.

This entity resembling a human worked in a hospital where he witnessed injuries and death. With this experience and training as a healer (which we paid for), he chose to deal out death and injury. Many doctors, including military doctors, hate and despise war. They don't use that as a justification for killing soldiers who are about to be sent to war.

At first I was disappointed that he wasn't dead. Now I'm pleased.

I'm pleased that he will know the shame and dishonor that he has brought to himself and his family. Happy that he will know the scorn of his fellow soldiers, especially his fellow Muslim soldiers. Firstly and mostly I pity the dead and injured. Secondly, I pity his family and everyone else who was shamed by his ruthless form of evil.

I say directly to the scum that is pictured above:

Nidal Malik Hasan, mark your name down as one of history's lowest traitors. You have failed as a psychiatrist, failed as a soldier, failed as an American and even failed as a Muslim. You were ineffectual as a traitor because you have changed nothing in the strategy or tactics of your enemy. May you rot in prison pondering your worthlessness and awaiting your eventual punishment in Hell.

Thank You for Your Service: Now Get Served for Free!

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:23:54 -0600

Here's some great news

Via Brian Block -- Northern Virginia & D.C. Real Estate (RE/MAX Allegiance):

Veteran's Day is coming up in just one week. It's an important time to pause and say thanks to those who have served our country so valiantly.

To honor our United States veterans, some local restaurants will be providing free meals on Veteran’s Day (November 11th) to current and former service members. Bring an ID card, DD Form 214, or something else identifying you as a Veteran (VFW/American Legion membership card).

Here's some info on the free deals:

Applebee's (even accepting an old picture in uniform as proof of service)

http://www.applebees.com/vetsday/

Proof of Service: US Uniform Services ID Card, US Uniform Services Retired ID Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Veteran's Organization Card (VFW, American Legion), Photograph in uniform, Wearing uniform, DD214, Citation or Commendation.

McCormick & Schmick's

http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/featured-promotion/Veterans-Appreciation-Day.aspx

The McCormick & Schmick's Veterans Appreciation Event is offered to veterans defined by the Veterans Administration, Title 38 US Code 101, which is "a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable."

Please present proper identification to your server when you are seated. Proper ID includes VA card, VFW card, American Legion card, discharge papers, DD214 or other Veterans ID.

Note that in an effort to accomodate as many Veterans as possible, restaurants will not be able to seat parties larger than 6.

Golden Corral: The Military Appreciation Monday dinner will be held on Monday, November 16, 2009 from 5 pm to 9 pm in all Golden Corral Restaurants. The free “thank you” dinner is available to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to participate in Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday dinner.

Lowe's: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. will offer all active, reserve, honorably discharged, retired military personnel and their immediate family members a 10 percent discount on in-store U.S. purchases made during the Veterans Day holiday. The discount is available Nov. 6 – Nov. 11. The discount is available on in-stock and special order purchases up to $5,000. To qualify, individuals must present a valid military ID or other proof of service. Excluded from the discount are sales via Lowes.com, previous sales, and purchases of services or gift cards.

Home Depot: The Home Depot is offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran’s Day. The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum of $200 between November 6 and November 12, 2008, at The Home Depot stores, The Home Depot Design Center locations, Yardbirds and EXPO Design Center locations.

Thanks you for your service and Welcome Home!

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If you plan to purchase or sell a home in the Northern Virginia or D.C. area,
you can visit my main Northern Virginia & D.C. real estate website at www.brianblock.com.

Update on your condo for sale at the Torpedo Factory

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:13:06 -0600

Adm. & Mrs. R~,

This is an update on your condo for sale at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria VA. I'm giving you this status report publicly. Don't worry, I'll never share privileged information in a public forum such as this---that's why I'm withholding your name above. But, my experience has shown that this publicly reporting this sort of information will increase your condo's Internet profile and will raise awareness among potential buyers.

Let me start by saying Richard Blaine completed the updates in the kitchen and bathrooms. I went by to inspect as soon as he was completed. The new appliances are installed. The new floor in the kitchen looks especially good. He also completed all the painting. After my inspection, I found some spots in the master bedroom that needed a second coat, and Richard had no problem with heading back for a correction.

He claimed it was a little dark for him to see in that bedroom (more on that later) and I told him to buy some shop lamps. He purchased the lighting he needed so that won't happen to him again and then finished up the work. If you'd like to take a look at the place, you can find a virtual tour online here.

After Richard was done, he cleaned the place, but it wasn't quite to a military standard---if you know what I mean. So, I contacted Nidea Cortez, a cleaning lady who has and continues to do excellent work for us. I put her crew to work in the place removing dust, washing baseboards, cleaning and shining. They charged me a couple hundred bucks and I'm glad to pay it. The condo now sparkles. I took most of the pictures you see in the virtual tour and a few more pictures for good measure.

Then, as fortune would have it, I had a family member pass away and on the way to the funeral I caught a mild case of food poisoning. (Never again McDonald's, no matter how much of a hurry I'm in.) It was a rough couple of days, but during that time, I put the listing in the MRIS. I contacted the Realtor who had heard rumors of our pending sale, and almost immediately her client and others started a flow of traffic. I feel that our marketing campaign and our price must be pretty close to right, because potential buyers are coming through the place.

But I received some feedback that the place "seemed dark". (Maybe this was why Richard missed a few spots in the master bedroom.)

As you know, I like this unit at the Torpedo Factory because it's so close to the Carlyle House and so close to King St. I like this condo because the patio will get a nice patch of shade in the oppressive summer months which will make that patio usable in Virginia's summer heat.

This condominium had never seemed dark to me, but I went by to re-inspect sometime as sunset was approaching. While I was there I realized that the condo has almost no overhead lighting. Most of it is designed to work from switched-plugs and lamps. I knew that someone was coming by to see the place the next morning, so I ran out an purchased a couple of standing lamps to place in the unit.

It took me a bit to assemble the lamps last night but I'm happy I did it then. While I was putting the second lamp together, a Realtor and client entered the property. I got the second lamp up and hustled out. I must mention that I really think the design of the lamps suits the condo.

BTW, while I was there I snapped the picture below to show others just how pretty the courtyard is at the Torpedo Factory after dark.

As you know, one my specialized areas of expertise is marketing real estate on the Internet. This post is one more drop in our tidal wave of Torpedo Factory information resources. Torpedo Factory dot com and Torpedo Factory dot info both prominently feature your condo. If a consumer uses Bing, Google or Yahoo to search for "Torpedo Factory condos" or "Alexandria condos" or any other of a number of searches, they will probably find your condo. I've also posted this listing at Postlets.com which plugs the listing into another tier of real-estate related Internet searches. One of the things you might notice at Postlets is that this condo scored a perfect 100 on its Walk Score. (Read more about Walk Score here.)

After assembling the lamps, I stopped on the way out to snap this night photo of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. I think it helps illustrate this condo's proximity to the waterfront.

In closing, I still can't promise with absolute certainty that this condominium at the Torpedo Factory will sell quickly. This is still a tough market for sellers. But I can say with complete confidence, that we're going to get noticed by the types of people who will be interested in condos like the Torpedo Factory. I can guarantee we will have interested buyers touring our place online and in person. We know this is a great property in a great location. We feel the price reflects the discounts that have hit the entire market. And, at this time of this posting, we're also the most affordable unit for sale at the Torpedo Factory.

November and December are always slower sales months because of the holiday, but I think our outlook is bright. I will not be surprised if we end up with competing offers on this condo, and I'll keep you apprised of all offers. Enjoy your trip overseas and I hope the family is all doing well. We look forward to your safe return.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and Will Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

I'm not complaing but ...

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:15:08 -0600

Sometimes it sucks to be a realtor. I'm not complaining though. Most days are like this:

On days like this, I love my vocation. I get to meet new people, look at interesting real estate and gossip with folks on my blog. I like driving around Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax County. I like seeing people realize their dreams. The pay is not bad, but the hours are long. Still, I like what I do ...

Except ...

A couple of days a year, when being a realtor feels like this:

Yesterday I was sick as a dog. But I had time sensitive documents that had to be taken care of. I dragged myself to the office and took care of business. I'm feeling better today ... but yesterday was one of those days.

Alexandria Condos --- market report

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:14:27 -0600

I've prepared the following report for any condominiums in Alexandria VA. This report only includes mappable properties with valid prices and home sizes are included in the calculations. To run your own up to the minute market report or to see the map from which this report was calculated check Alexandria Condos.

Prices Home Sizes

Average:	$422,196
Median:	$334,900
Median:	$309 / sq ft
Lowest:	$99,000
Highest:	$2,950,000
Average:	1,184 sq ft
Median:	1,083 sq ft
Smallest:	362 sq ft
Largest:	5,000 sq ft

Northern Virginia's Most Walkable Neighborhoods

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 01:37:52 -0600

Condo-Alexandria.com now allows users to search for property by "Walk Score". Walk Score helps people find walkable places to live. Walk Score calculates the walkability of an address by locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, etc. Walk Score promises to measure how easy it is to live a car-lite lifestyle---not how pretty the area is for walking. In reality,

What does a property's Walk Score score mean?

Each home listed for sale is given a Walk Score. That number is between 0 and 100. Here are general guidelines for interpreting your score:

90–100 = Walkers' Paradise: Most errands can be accomplished on foot and many people can get by without owning a car.
70–89 = Very Walkable: It's possible to get by without owning a car.
50–69 = Somewhat Walkable: Some stores and amenities are within walking distance, but many everyday trips still require a bike, public transportation, or car.
25–49 = Car-Dependent: Only a few destinations are within easy walking range. For most errands, driving or public transportation is a must.
0–24 = Car-Dependent (Driving Only): Virtually no neighborhood destinations within walking range. You can walk from your house to your car!

Walk Score isn't perfect ...

Home buyers need to be aware that Walk Score is just an approximation of walkability.

For example, the Skyline communities of Falls Church generally have a higher Walk Score than the New Alexandria community of Belle View. River Towers has pleasant tree-lined walkways with easy access to neighborhood shops, parks, libraries, the Potomac. Skyline Square is convenient as can be, but broad and busy 4 lane roads make walking inconvenient, if not dangerous. But River Towers doesn't score as high on Walk Score as Skyline Square.

So, there are a number of factors that contribute to walkability that are not part of the algorithm used to calculate Walk Score:

Public transit: Good public transit is important for walkable neighborhoods. Not to fear: you can also search for homes near a metro station.
Street width and block length: Narrow streets slow down traffic. Short blocks provide more routes to the same destination and make it easier to take a direct route.
Street design: Sidewalks and safe crossings are essential to walkability. Appropriate automobile speeds, trees, and other features also help.
Safety from crime and crashes: How much crime is in the neighborhood? How many traffic accidents are there? Are streets well-lit?
Pedestrian-friendly community design: Are buildings close to the sidewalk with parking in back? Are destinations clustered together?
Topography: Hills can make walking difficult, especially if you're carrying groceries.
Freeways and bodies of water: Freeways can divide neighborhoods. Swimming is harder than walking.
Weather: In some places it's just too hot or cold to walk regularly.

Thus, the tools on our site are a great starting point in your search for homes and neighborhoods of Northern Virginia, but there really is no substitute for your Condo 1 Alexandria realtor. We know the areas and neighborhoods where you want to live and we can really help you sort to the wheat from the chaff.

Northern Virginia's Most Walkable Homes for Sale

Well, maybe ...

The properties listed above score very high on the Walk Score criteria and are thus featured here. Search for more walkable properties or contact us for tips and suggestions to fit any budget.

A Tale of Two Short Sales

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:57:38 -0500

It was the best of times; it was the worst of times ...

In many parts of the country the economy is stalled. One indication of this is the many short-sales and foreclosures on the market. But that means opportunity for savvy buyers. This is a tale of two buyers, Amy and Edwin. Both are buyers. Both have short-sales under contract. Both have been waiting months to go forward.

It was the age of wisdom; it was the age of foolishness ...

Short-sales often advertise ridiculously low prices. In Northern Virginia, it's not difficult to find short-sales selling for $10,000, $20,000 even $50,000 or more less than than comparable homes available for sale. This is the time of bargains, and lenders in up-side down loans are hurting. But that doesn't mean they're giving away free money in America.

It was the epoch of incredulity; it was the season of light ...

Here's a tip from one who knows: when you find a home for sale for much less than all of the comparables you probably have not found a bargain; you've probably found a waste of time. Oh sure, you should check it out, but don't get your hopes too high. Ask your realtor for the inside story. If he or she tells you to walk away ... walk away.

It was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope ...

Short sales are not. (Short.) Homes that sell for far less than any comparable homes don't. (Sell.) Now is a great time to buy. But now more than ever, buyers need experienced realtors who will get a home ... not a contract and a hope.

It was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to heaven, we were all going direct the other way--in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.

Amy and Edwin both put in contracts for short sales. Amy is closing today on the home of her dreams. She paid more than the asking price and less than the market value. Months later, Edwin is still waiting for a decision. He has contracted at a price much lower than the assessed value. But that does not a bit of good if the bank will not sell the home. Maybe Edwin will one day buy the home of his dreams.

He lowered the window, and looked out at the rising sun. There was a ridge of ploughed land, with a plough upon it where it had been left last night when the horses were unyoked; beyond, a quiet coppice-wood, in which many leaves of burning red and golden yellow still remained upon the trees. Though the earth was cold and wet, the sky was clear, and the sun rose bright, placid, and beautiful.

Pie Social with the Alexandria Fun with Friends group

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:52:41 -0500

The Pie Social was a big hit with members of the Alexandria Fun with Friends group. Members pitched in to bring pies and a supporting cast of whipped cream, milk, coffee and teas. The group relaxed with a few games and chatted the evening away. I tried to taste them all but there were just too many and they were just too good. I definitely look forward to the next time around with this one.

The event was held at the River Towers Club Room, just outside Old Town near the Potomac in New Alexandria. About twenty locals, friends and new acquaintances, gathered to enjoy a little pie and some fellowship.

Nibbles, Noshes and Games.

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:22:33 -0500

This from the Alexandria Fun with Friend's Calendar:

How about an evening of games and socializing with a few of your favorite nibbles?
Newcomers and old friends are welcome here for an evening of light-gaming and socializing. We're asking everyone to pitch in and bring something from our list. (Declare on your RSVP what you're bringing!) Here's what we'll need:

Cheeses --- Cubed or sliced but nicely plated. We're going upscale this time!
Fruits or Veggies --- Perfect for nibbling and healthy as can be.
Meats or Cold-cuts --- Cube a salami or just bring a meat plate. Most of us are skipping dinner so make it nice!
Crackers and snackers --- No bags of Lays and Doritos people! We're channeling our inner snobs on this one. It's culture for the uncultured and make it count with water crackers, gourmet crackers, or quirky crackers.
Olives -- We're not talking about a can of olives not fit for a pizza. We want Greek and Spanish olives, pitted or unpitted as you wish. Dripping with oil and oh so tasty!
Two tablecloths --- Okay, so you're not a foodie. You can't cut a cheese cube to save your life. Well guess what? You can pitch-in by classing up the joint with a paper tablecloth from your local grocery or party store! Yes, you're getting off easy, but make it up when you're here by taking out a trash bag and helping with clean-up.
Get creative! --- Are you a cook? How about impressing us with a hot wing, or fried dumpling, or a savory pastry? Make it look nice but more importantly don't use us to experiment with your new recipe!
Homemade dessert? --- It might be nice to finish off with some cupcakes or brownies. Don't bring us the "Oops we made too much" special from Safeway!
I know this list looks a little demanding, but we're trying to give you an idea of what we're shooting for. Bring your own drinks, and if your drinks are alcoholic, please drink in moderation. Keep in mind the RSVP's so you know how many people will be coming. Please update your RSVP if you can't make it. We're counting on you to make it nice.
Please bring a game and be ready to teach some others. We'll have fun and look forward to seeing you there!

The event is November 21st and all are welcome. Details and RSVP at Alexandria Fun with Friends.

Rosslyn --- On the Orange Line

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 07:45:09 -0500

Located on D.C. Metrorail's Orange Line, Rosslyn is the last stop in Arlington before entering the District and, compared to its more suburban-feeling counterpart neighborhoods such as Courthouse and Clarendon, Rosslyn has a distinctly urban feel. In large part, this is due to the corporate and commercial businesses occupying the area, including nationally known companies like Price Waterhouse Coopers, the Boeing Company, and several major hotel chains such as Marriott and Hyatt.

A mix of culture and community, Rosslyn offers a gamut of local activities such as the Rosslyn Spectrum Theater, a vibrant performing arts venue featuring live music and theater in the evenings, or the Arlington History Bike Tour. Rosslyn is also home to an annual jazz festival each September. Although it is known as one of Arlington's most urban villages, Rosslyn also provides a home to those who seek to live outside of the District, and many of the residential apartment complexes offer a serene view of the Potomac River and the streets are often calm by the end of the evening.

For those seeking real estate in Arlington here are a few links and suggestions along the Orange Line:

Rosslyn --- At the center of the world: many homes here have views of Washington monuments, Iwo Jima Memorial
- Atrium -- stunning condos enclosed in glass
- Belvedere -- luxury at the center of the everything near the Rosslyn Metro
Courthouse --- Walk to everything with a condo or home near Courthouse Metro Station
Ballston --- Map includes Ballston Metro and Virginia Square/GMU on the Orange Line in Arlington VA
East Falls Church Metro --- Metro station located near I-66
Dunn Loring / Merrifield --- Homes and properties near and inside the Beltway
- Halstead at the Metro --- Newly built brick garden-style condos on the Orange Line at Dunn Loring Metro
- Wilton House and Westbriar -- High-rise condos and garden style condos at Dunn Loring
Vienna --- First/last stop on the Orange Line in Virginia

Mount Vernon on the banks of the Potomac in Fairfax County

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 06:56:18 -0500

The Mount Vernon District of Fairfax County encourages all measure of civic and community participation. Whatever your interests are, such as enjoying the local parks and recreation services, connecting through community service, or even involvement with a very active PTA, the Mount Vernon District offers something for everyone. One event that is particularly meaningful to local Mount Vernon District residents is the annual town meeting, which is usually held on the last Saturday of every January at the Mount Vernon High School, and has been ongoing since 1988. Finally, the Mount Vernon District is well known as an ample area for venture capital investments.

Another point of interest is the Mount Vernon Recreation Center, located at 2017 Belle View Boulevard in Alexandria, which offers a variety of exercise and recreational programs including ice skating, swimming, and other fitness activities. The Mount Vernon District also offers two distinct Farmer’s Markets, on Tuesdays and Sundays, both of which provide fresh flowers and produce, as well as baked and home goods.

The benefits of living in the Mount Vernon District are numerous. With an energetic and vivacious community of citizens and ample residential housing and condo opportunities, the Mount Vernon District has carved out its own place in the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area and is known for its family-friendly values and high community standards.

Here are a few of the neighborhoods of Mount Vernon

Arcturus
Fort Belvoir
Fort Hunt
- Fort Hunt --- Properties for sale in and around Fort Hunt and Fort Hunt Rd.
- Arcturus --- fine homes on the waterfront between Mount Vernon and Alexandria
- Belle Haven --- a prestigious neighborhood near Old Town Alexandria
- Belle View --- cute condos in New Alexandria
- Bucknell Manor and Bucknell Hieghts --- cape cods and townhouses
- Hollin Hall --- Hollin Hall, Hollindale and other homes near Collingwood in Fairfax County south of Alexandria
- Hollin Hills --- the future of housing yesterday ... distinctly modern vintage homes in a lush forest
- Mason Hill --- single family homes near Paul Spring and Fort Hunt
- New Alexandria --- great homes near the Belle View Shopping Center between Fort Hunt Road and GW Parkway
- River Towers --- condos south of Alexandria near Fort Hunt Road surrounded by parks
- Stratford Landing --- a quiet community near Mount Vernon
- Villamay, Westgrove and Marlan Heights --- overlooking the Potomac and GW Parkway south of Alexandria
- Waynewood --- small town feel with an easy commute to Alexandria, DC, Pentagon, Fort Belvoir and more
Franconia
Hayfield
Huntington
- Huntington Metro --- Properties for sale near Huntington Metros
- Hunting Creek Club --- views and balconies on a budget
- Huntington Club --- condo fees include all utilities / walk to metro
- Huntington Run --- newer garden-style condos a few blocks from the metro
- Huntington Walk --- brick condos with balconies
- Jefferson Manor --- brick townhouses in walking distance to metro
- Midtown Alexandria Station --- sparkling new elegant condos on the Yellow Line
- Montebello --- resort-style living with access to the city
Huntly Meadows
- Huntley Meadows --- a map of the park with homes for sale nearby
- Kingstowne --- condos, houses and townhouses for sale in and near Kingstowne
- Hayfield Farm --- Single family homes near the Coast Guard station
- Woodstone -- Townhouses and single family houses near Huntley Meadows
- Stoneybrooke -- Single family homes between Groveton Hieghts and Huntley Meadows
Kingstowne
Lorton
Mason Neck
New Alexandria
Woodstone

Great feedback from a client

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:30:16 -0500

Wow! I just got this from Jeremy W. This really makes me proud to work with Ben Fornshell.

Howdy Mr. Nesbitt--
I wanted to take a moment to highlight the exceptional service I received from one of your agents, Ben Fornshell. Within a few hours of emailing Ben, we made an appointment to meet the following day in
order to tour Belle Haven. After meeting up at your office, we walked along the well-kept streets while Ben shared some of his experiences with the community; calmly strolling through a neighborhood on a sunny
day while viewing properties is not a typical experience when searching for a new home. After touring several, I stepped into one particular unit and realized I was home. Ben walked me through the particulars before we parted. Later that day, he met with me a second time, well after working hours, to show the unit to my skeptical wife. She eagerly concurred and five days later, we signed--beating out several others largely because of how well-prepared our package was. Ben's relaxed and informative approach was a sea-change to the aggressive apartment-pushers usually lurking in real estate and is a great credit to your business and profession.

Further, his stance made it more than clear that he wasn't merely looking to push someone into a vacant unit: he was assisting a new neighbor.

Please convey my very great appreciation for his hard work and dedication. If you'd like to post this message anywhere online, please feel free; I only ask that you omit my last name for privacy.

Sincerely,
--Jeremy W. ~

Iwo Jima Memorial

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:02:08 -0500

The Marine Corps War Memorial honors fallen U.S. Marine Corps members depicting one of the most famous incidents of World War II. The incident was witnessed by news photographer Joe Rosenthal whose picture of six men raising the American flag on Mt. Suribachi won the Pulitzer Prize and later became the symbol of the war effort in the Pacific. The depiction was also used by the American government to sell war bonds and to promote the war effort. Finally, the picture inspired sculptor Felix DeWeldon, who created a life size model of the photograph, where it was later cast into bronze and brought to Washington, D.C, in September 1954.

The names and dates of every principal Marine Corps engagement since the founding of the Corps is burnished into the base of the statue, as well as the inscription: "In honor and in memory of the men of the United States Marine Corps who have given their lives to their country since November 10, 1775."

The Memorial is located on Marshall Drive, between Rt. 50 and the Arlington National Cemetery in Rosslyn. The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial is administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Telephone 703-289-2500 for further information about scheduled events.

If you're looking for a home near the Iwo Jima Memorial or Rosslyn, you may find the following links useful:

Condos at Courthouse Metro

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:55:36 -0500

The Courthouse Metro Station is located in Arlington, Virginia at Wilson Boulevard and Uhle Street. The Court House metro is located on the Orange Line, in between the Rosslyn and Clarendon metro stations, and services the greater Courthouse neighborhood. The metro station began service in 1979 and is scheduled to be on the Silver Line by the start of operations in 2011. Located in the epicenter of Arlington, estimates project that sum 14,000 people enter and exit the station on an average weekday.

The area surrounding the Courthouse Metro Station represents a wide-range of residential, commercial, government and retail buildings. Colonial Village, for example, located just north of the metro station, is one of Arlington's first garden apartment complexes and part of the complex has been designated as a Historic District by the Arlington County Board. By contrast, the metro stop is also surrounded by the Court House Plaza buildings, which include almost 600,000 square feet of office space. In 1993, the Arlington County Board adopted the Court House Sector Plan Addendum which envisions the Court House metro station area as an urban government center with an eclectic mix of numerous, high-capacity office and commercial properties coexisting with and in preservation of the nearby local and residential neighborhoods.

If you're looking for a home on the Orange Line, you might find the following links useful:

Rosslyn --- At the center of the world: many homes here have views of Washington monuments, Iwo Jima Memorial
Courthouse --- Walk to everything with a condo or home near Courthouse Metro Station
Ballston --- Map includes Ballston Metro and Virginia Square/GMU on the Orange Line in Arlington VA
East Falls Church Metro --- Metro station located near I-66
Dunn Loring / Merrifield --- Homes and properties near and inside the Beltway
Vienna --- First/last stop on the Orange Line in Virginia

Questions for your real estate agent

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:39:06 -0500

Real estate agents are licensed real estate professionals. The Commonwealth of Virginia requires that licenses be posted in a prominent place in the office of the real estate broker. If you don't see that license, ask if the agent is licensed and ask if the license is current. Agents also carry a license on their person.

Agents are required to train and take courses, so ask about your agent about their training, and about what resources they use to locate either properties for sale or prospective buyers. If you are buying or selling a home, make sure the real estate agent has access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). The MLS charges agents a pretty hefty monthly fee and believe it or not some agents let their access to the MLS lapse. Make sure your agent has full access to the MLS.

If you are selling property, ask your realtor to provide you with prices of comparable properties sold in your area so you can be sure you are listing your property for a fair and reasonable price. This is called a Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. A CMA can help you and your agent determine how long it takes the agent on average to sell property. This can also help point to the best marketing plan for selling your property.

Buyers should ask about the type of properties the agent specializes in, condos, commercial, townhouses, luxury, area, etc. Also as a buyer you should provide the agent any additional information about things like local schools and community information.

Buying and selling property can be simple with the help of a good real estate agency. Spend the time to find the right real estate agency for your needs.

We appreciate the opportunity to show what we can do for your business. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you.

Part of Alexandria is not in Alexandria!

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 06:50:49 -0500

It's true: a portion of Alexandria is not in the City of Alexandria at all!

This is because of how the Commonwealth of Virginia organizes its jurisdictions. The state is organized into counties and county-like jurisdictions called "independent cities" or just "cities". In most respects, a city is not much more than a county that wants to be called a city. For example, the county of Arlington is larger, more populous and more urban than most cities in Virginia; while the city of Falls Church is about the same size as the town of Vienna which is in Fairfax County.

Speaking of towns, newcomers sometimes confuse a city with an "incorporated town". An incorporated town, like a city, has its own government. However a town is located inside a county. Like a town, a city has its own government, but a city is not part of any county.

Northern Virginia has several independent cities and the City of Alexandria is one such independent city. The City of Alexandria borders Fairfax County, but Alexandria is not in Fairfax County.

However, to make things especially confusing for newcomers and for folks hunting houses, there are large parts of Fairfax County that have an Alexandria postal address. These areas of "Greater Alexandria" are most definitely part of Fairfax County and are not in the City of Alexandria. In general, postal Alexandria is more suburban than addresses in the City of Alexandria, but this is not always the case. A few of neighborhood in Alexandria of Fairfax County include:

To make things a little more confusing, Fairfax County surrounds the City of Fairfax. Locals generally refer to the county as "Fairfax County" and the city as "Fairfax", but Alexandria uses the opposite nomenclature. "Alexandria" generally refers to greater/postal Alexandria, while "City of Alexandria" refers to the jurisidiction of the City of Alexandria.

If you're still confused, no worries! We'll do all the work of searching for homes for you. Contact us today and give me an idea what you're looking for. At any given time there are thousands of homes for sale in Northern Virgina. One of them is the right home for you.

Boardgames and New Friends in Northern VA

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 07:23:49 -0500

If you enjoy boardgames and meeting new people you should check out this event hosted by the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group.

This group enjoys playing "Eurogames". Eurogames are games that emphasize strategy, downplay luck, lean towards economic (trading and building) rather than military themes, and have attractive physical components.

Newcomers are welcomed because these games often have few rules and are easy to learn. The organizer warns that some of these games are long and complex but they don't often play those games. They are called "Eurogames" because this fad of games originated in Europe with games like Settlers of Catan. Most of these games were invented in the last 25 years, but if you liked Life, Clue, Risk and Monopoly as a child, you will probably like Eurogames as an adult.

This event is at a private residence in West Springfield on Oct. 17 from noon to 11 p.m. You may bring food to share or bring money for ordering pizza. or Chinese. We will have some snacks and drinks available. RSVP and directions are found at the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group.

Vienna Metro Station

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 04:53:27 -0500

Vienna Metro Station is a Washington Metro Station in Fairfax County located in Virginia, on the Orange Line. The Vienna Metro is located in Oakton, though its official address is of Fairfax, in the median of Interstate 66 at Nutley Street. The station provides easy access to the nearby town of Vienna, Fairfax City and the main campus of George Mason University.

For the metro rail, each passenger requires a farecard or a SmarTrip card to enter and exit, though up to two children under age five may travel free with a paying customer. Fare cards are available at the fare vending machines and also available online. The farecard machines accept credit and debit card or passes. The hours of service on Monday to Thursday are 5 a.m. to midnight, on Friday 5a.m.to 3a.m., on Saturday 7a.m.to 3a.m., and 7a.m. to midnight on Sundays.

The Vienna Metro offers daily or hourly parking but parking at the station sells out almost daily. WMATA also rents out monthly reserved parking. Riders purchase permits to park in reserved places.

Click Vienna Metro for a map of homes available near the Vienna Metro.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria VA

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 07:14:55 -0500

The United States Patent and Trademark Office is located in the Carlyle District of Old Town Alexandria VA. The USPTO is one of Alexandria's top employers and a magnet for sharp, well-educated folks from across the country. Commuters have easy access to the USPTO because it's located a few blocks from Alexandria's King Street Metro and just inside the Capitol Beltway. The mission of the USPTO is to protect the interests of inventors of intellectual property, while providing for the good of the nation and the market.

The Carlyle District and Old Town have many upscale shops, restaurants, hotels and restaurants. Young patent examiners may have a hard time finding an affordable residence in Old Town or the Carlyle District, but have many choices close by in Huntington, New Alexandria and the West End of Alexandria.

Coming Attractions at the Torpedo Factory condos in Old Town Alexandria

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 07:02:37 -0500

Are you looking for two bedrooms in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Northern Virginia? This is your "heads-up".

We'll soon be offering a condominium for sale at the famed Torpedo Factory condos in Old Town Alexandria VA.

There are a few details we're going to take care of before formally offering the place for sale, but one of the highlights of the home has to be the patio and sunroom.

At the edge of the formal gardens in the courtyard of the Torpedo Factory condos, this home is just paces from all the many attractions and activities of Old Town. The restaurants, the waterfront and everything that is wonderful about Old Town Alexandria is at your doorstep when you live at the Torpedo Factory.

Call 703 765 0300 to inquire about the availability of this home which promises to be priced right and delivered in top condition.

Many Musicians of Old Town Alexandria

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:51:11 -0500

If you like street music, then you'll find no better spot to wander than Old Town Alexandria. Through-out the week, especially on weekends, musicians gather in Old Town at street corners and near the waterfront to play music for tips and applause. Most are highly talented professionals, some are learning to play their instrument in front of a crowd. I enjoy them both in different ways.

Here in Old Town Alexandria, you'll find everything from a lonely saxophone, to steel drums to an entire band. Below I've collected a few photos to give you a taste of Old Town's many musicians.

This foursome was phenomenal singing and playing old time mountain music. It was a great throwback to the Carters because the gal in the front on the guitar was a great singer. The banjo player and bass were on point and I love the texture that the mandolin (seated behind guitar) provided.

The glass harp as played by Jamie Turner is an old town treat one simply must hear in person to appreciate.

This glass not only strummed the harp to perfection but she also sang beautifully.

At the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory there are often a few soloists serving up music for passers-by.

I heard some fine picking and strumming from this pair.

Surrey of Manchester Lakes

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 08:55:53 -0500

Surrey is one of the condominium communities that make up Manchester Lakes and it happens to be one of my favorite spots in Northern Virginia. Because Surrey is in Manchester Lakes these condos have access to community features like the club room and the pool, but the condo fees at Surrey are remarkably low. Surrey is very well-tended but they are designed to keep fees low. Surrey provides garden-style condos without need for elevators or carpeting in common areas or even electricity or temperature control in the common areas. Every condo at Surrey has a porch or a patio and every condo at Surrey has a real fireplace.

The floorplans have the feel of the "all-American rambler". That is to say, the unit is all on one level with large open kitchen-dining-living area at one side of the unit and at the end of the hall a pair of bedrooms with each with a bathroom. Surrey does not have a "double-master" lay-out. There is one master-bedroom here.

The neighborhood is very pleasant with easy access to Kingstowne and Springfield. Of course, the Franconia-Springfield Metro is right around the corner and some residents walk to the metro as part of their commute.

Stratford Landing

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 08:53:24 -0500

The east bank of Little Hunting Creek is called Stratford Landing . Stratford on the Potomac is near the point where Little Hunting Creek enters the Potomac.

LIke Arcturus, this natural harbor was at one time a boaters' get-away: the perfect place for DC anglers to escape from the city.

There are few remnants of the fishing shacks here. One is more likely to find a multi-million dollar estate home.

Some homes on have piers and docks, many are have near waterfront exposure. Here's a list of what's available in Stratford Landing including both Stratford Landing and Stratford on the Potomac.

Bolling Brook condominiums in West End Alexandria VA

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:11:21 -0500

Bolling Brook condominiums are located in the West End of Alexandria VA a few paces from King Street where King St. crosses I-395. There are several condominium communities in the immediate vicinity (Northampton, Palazzo) and others that are very close by (Pointe, Skyline). Bolling Brook is very close the Alexandria Campus of the Northern Virginia Community College.

Bolling Brook is close to I-395 and King Street, but the neighborhood is quiet and peaceful at the end of South 28th St. One of the assets of this community is Jim Mulligan Park, a small reserve of nature that abutts the south side of the community.

Bolling Brook is well-kept and offers a pool but not much else in the way of amenities. Few amenities means low condo fees, as does the all brick structures that comprise Bolling Brook. The balconies at Bolling Brook are large and the floorplans are schemed to feel spacious. Click Bolling Brook for a map of the area and prices of real estate for sale at Bolling Brook.

New condos, townhouses and houses in Alexandria VA

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:20:43 -0500

Are you shopping for a newly built home, townhome or condominium? We've assemble these resources to make your search easier. In the links below we focus on homes that have been built after 2004. Some of these communities and homes are so new they are still under construction! In addition, we've highlighted a few specific neighborhoods and condominium developments that "feel new" to us, even if they aren't new.

Alexandria

Arlington

Falls Church

Westlee

Fairfax County

City of Fairfax