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Just Starting Out? Why Not Buy a D.C. Condo?

By
Real Estate Agent with Keller-Williams

condoIf you've been working in Washington for a while, you might be thinking it's time to put down some roots and buy a place....and you should. You want the pride of ownership but you don't need loads of space, right? Is your career taking off so you're left wondering how you would do any yard work or maintenance?  And when you're free, you want to entertain or travel - or enjoy amenities at home? I've got you covered. A condominium or loft is your perfect housing choice. It's not your dream home, but believe me, when you look back in 5 years, you will be glad you made the leap & jumped on this opportunity!

A condominium is an individually owned unit in building that often looks like an apartment building.  Most individuals consider condos because they feel the environment offers convenience, safety, freedom from maintenance, and a sense of community.  Sometimes, the larger condo buildings will even offer pools, fitness facilities, tennis courts, maybe roof deck with views, concierge service, and valet service.

Lofts are living spaces often carved out of buildings that were originally intended for some other purpose.  It might be a factory or warehouse that was converted for urban living. These offer interesting spaces that might be sold ready to use or ready to convert.  Many times, loft buildings often feature high ceiling and lots of open space and require low maintenance...once you get your space the way you want it to look.

In both scenarios, the residents are usually governed by a homeowner's association which oversees the community, collects monthly fees, and maintains the common areas.  While you do have to live according to "their rules", it is still a very good housing choice for young professionals who are first time D.C. homeowners - and for those who like the many lifestyle advantages.

Condos and lofts are plentiful here, from older ones to new construction.  While you can spend millions, you can also find a nice place that is affordable and convenient within the greater D.C. area.  Right now, the $8,000 tax credit and D.C. housing credit might apply to you, so you will need a professional real estate agent who knows the neighborhoods, knows the condo/ loft market, and knows the financing landscape. 

I specialize in finding just the right condo or loft for clients like you, whether you are starting out or moving up.  Give me a call at (202) 270-6972 - we can meet for coffee to discuss your real estate plans.  While you are getting ready to buy, I offer you plenty of resources to guide your decision.  Subscribe to my valentinosdcpulse blog for the latest tips on buying a condo!  Check out my Atlantic Coast Connection website for the D.C. area latest listings and information on the D.C. condo scene!

Posted by

 

 

Rachel Valentino

Managing Partner, Valentino & Associates Team 

at Keller Williams

www.rachelvalentino.com      (c) 202.270.6972     (f) 202.290.1204

 Keller-Williams Real Estate      202-243-7700     Thank you for referring your friends and colleagues!  

  #1 Individual Producer at DC's #1 Real Estate Office... 

2009 Washington City Paper's "Best Real  Estate Agent" ...   

 2009 Washington Life Magazine's "The Young & The Guest List"... 

  Licensed in DC, MD, & VA      Specializing in the  NW quadrant of DC, eastern MD, northern VA

Comments(3)

Monique Combs
Royal Shell Real Estate - Bonita Springs, FL
Royal Shell Real Estate - Monique Combs

Rachel,

Love Dc. Have a condo on 10th & L. We had to rent this year. Bought in pre-construction before the big boom. Decline was hard, but it seems DC market is picking up.. Great post.

May 28, 2009 02:53 PM
Rachel Valentino
Keller-Williams - Washington, DC
Valentino & Associates

Latest figures show that DC is pulling out of the recession.That's great news for all of us! Thanks for your comments!

May 28, 2009 03:31 PM
Will Nesbitt
Nesbitt Realty at Condo Alexandria - Alexandria, VA
Nesbitt Realty is a family-run brokerage.

Congratulations on the featured post!

May 28, 2009 11:28 PM