"No that commute time is not realistic"

So as I watch the early morning traffic reports; I think of many conversations I have with buyers who are moving into the Washington DC area for the first time.

We have many buyers who are relocating to Washington DC for the 1st time.  Often these folks do not understand the TRAFFIC here in the DC Metro area.  It can be difficult.  There are no real easy ways around it.

I once had someone tell me on the phone; she wanted a home within 45 (mumbled) to the Pentagon.  I replied; Did you say "minutes"?  She replied; "YES... well minutes or miles".  I then asked her again; that I needed to know which one; as these are VERY different things.

In some parts of the nation; I am sure 45 minutes to work - could be 45 miles.  That would be mostly freeway travel without much in traffic.  However in the Washington DC Metro area; 45 minutes could be less than 10 miles. (My old drive to the office was 6 miles and could easily take 35 minutes).

Our rush hours are LONG.  From 6 am until 10am and then 3 (ish) in the afternoon until 7 or later in the eve.  But the worst of course is if it is raining, snowing, foggy (or one of our MANY "special" events, motorcades, etc).

Of course some people simply do not believe me.  These weary home buyers I often suggest they do a "test drive" - before considering a certain area.  One couple called me from the beltway (what we call the interstate which surrounds the District) to tell me - they would now change their search from Maryland to Virginia.  Of course I never said "I told you so"; but after that - they did listen to most of what I said the rest of the transaction!

One thing I do suggest is to try Google Maps.  While google maps does show drive time "with traffic" - I find this to be conservative.  Typically the "with traffic" time is BEST CASE.  As fas as with (no traffic) - try driving at 3 or 4am!

SO when shopping for a home in Northern Virginia, Maryland or Washington DC; keep in mind - Travel Time can make you just a bit crazy!

 

             

 

Contact James Downing of the Downing Real Estate Group, if you are selling, buying or have questions!

Office: 202-362-5800   Cell: 703.244.3971

Licensed in Washington DC, Virginia & Maryland.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage - Chevy Chase
5028 Wisconsin Ave NW  Suite 100 * Washington DC 20016