Hi, this is new for me...so give me a break!  I am a full-time real estate professional working with buyers and sellers in the "close to DC" counties of Fairfax, Arlington, cities of Alexandria and Falls Church.  I live in the Kingstowne area and my office is in Arlington, so I get around!

Regardless of what we see and hear from the media, the Northern Virginia area is less affected by the declining home market than a lot of areas of the country.  If the home is well priced and in good condition, it is selling. The price declines of the past year have begun to creep back up....and based on the latest numbers from the Northern Virginia Board of Realtors...I honestly think we have hit the bottom.  While this may not be true for condos (depending on the building/community) they too are beginning to show some activity.

If you are considering going after a bargain (foreclosures and short sales), there are some great opportunities out there.  This could be the best time to snag an investment property in the last five years.  As a buyer, if the property is listed as a "short sale", you will need to have the fortitude to wait for an answer from the bank...now taking about 4 weeks.  But, in the end you will come out ahead, usually paying 10-20% below market.

Just let me know what questions/concerns you may have and I will answer them, or find the expert who will.

Honestly and promptly to allay your hesitation!

It's a beautiful day in Alexandria, spring has sprung, finally!