What do I do if school doesn’t fit my kid?
That’s the question that so many of the parents and families ask when they’re looking at small independent schools like The Howard Gardner School. There are any number of reasons that their current school might not fit.
- “My son is surviving, but they definitely aren’t thriving”
- “My daughter stopped doing gymnastics, and doesn’t ride horses anymore. She just does schoolwork.”
- “I don’t think the school ever really ‘got’ my kid… they’re just different”
These are quotes pulled from parents looking at HGS this year. Our families are a diverse group from all different backgrounds. Our students are just as varied with all kinds of reasons for being at The Howard Gardner School. The common thread is that school wasn’t working.
When school — as we think of it now — was invented, in the 1800s, it was in answer to the industrial revolution. Desks in rows and columns, classrooms with the same number of students as factories had workers in each shift. Even a curriculum contained by four walls and a textbook, set to a standardized approach for a standardized set of goals.
A few things have changed in the last two hundred years
Public school in the United States was and is a ground-breaking, crucial program with an audacious mandate: Educate every single citizen of the most diverse nation in the history of the world. Public educators are dedicated professionals seeking to do just that — but the mandate is virtually impossible. What works for one student might be antithetical to the needs of another. What makes one kid excited might make another kid anxious. As a result, typical schools seek to do the most that they can for as many students as they can. It’s a laudable and practical approach to a truly difficult circumstance.
But what if your kid doesn’t fit?
The parents, families, and kids who are exploring The Howard Gardner School are obviously considering a new school setting. It’s a wonderful truth that this region has an incredible array of top tier public and private schools. In particular, this area’s set of intentionally small schools is truly impressive. The Washington Small Schools Association and the Virginia Small Schools Association can provide interested families with information and ideas about how to find a school that fits.
In fact, the admissions staff at these small schools will take the time and effort to help each individual student find and access the best possible fit for them. Because each small school can be a different place — with programs, teachers, even campuses that fit different kinds of kids.
At The Howard Gardner School, we work with a very small number of students, in very small classes, designed around experiential programming. For instance, we take thirty-six field trips per year. Our students have multiple overnight travel opportunities each school year. And because of the needs of the teenage brain, we start the school day at 10 a.m. If sitting at a desk for eight hours a day, or slogging through another two hours of homework at night isn’t the right fit for your kid, HGS could help you find a better one.
Our mission here at The Howard Gardner School is to help bright, creative, non-traditional students use their unique strengths to thrive academically, intellectually, and emotionally.
Please check out our website at www.TheHowardGardnerSchool.org, and call or email to learn more about how to find the best fit for your kid.
There is a place where each young person can find their fit and thrive. The process is a bit like being in a dark room — the hard part isn’t turning on the light, it’s finding the switch.
The Howard Gardner School
Serving bright, creative, non-traditional learners in grades 6-12
Alexandria, VA & Sterling, VA
703-822-9300
Just Listed highlights Alexandria City properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by the Jen Walker Team (Licensed in VA) of McEnearney Associates REALTORS®.
Welcome Back!
Jen Walker here with The Jen Walker Team! We are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.
Welcome to 808 Mount Vernon Ave, a lovely 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home nestled in the heart of Del Ray. From its large, deep, front landscaped yard to its spacious interior and charming backyard oasis, this residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience.
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a spacious sitting room that sets the tone for the rest of the home. To the left, a step-down office space with large windows awaits, providing an inspiring setting for work or relaxation. The entire home has been freshly painted in neutral tones, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout. Large windows with plantation shutters allow natural light to fill the space, while a coveted first-floor powder room adds convenience for guests. To the right of the entryway, an open floor plan unfolds, featuring generous living, dining, and kitchen areas. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, boasting an oversized island with brass lantern pendant lights, granite countertops, warm Revere raised panel cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Neutral subway tiles and a built-in desk area add both style and functionality. Just off the kitchen, a sizable pantry with built-in shelving provides ample storage space. French doors from the dining room and kitchen open to a large fenced-in backyard, complete with a stamped concrete patio and wooden pergola, perfect for outdoor entertaining or working from home on warm spring days. Green space and a charming shed complete the backyard.
Head upstairs to the large primary bedroom which can easily accommodate a king-sized bed. The walk-in closet has plenty of storage — rare for Del Ray! The spa-like ensuite bathroom boasts a large shower with frameless glass doors and a striking deep gray double sink vanity. Two additional bedrooms and a spacious hall bath are also found on this level. A conveniently located front-loading LG washer and dryer and linen closet with floating shelves round out this level. Head up to the third floor, where a fourth bedroom awaits. This room is a great guest room but could be used as an office, playroom, or additional living space.
Conveniently located just one block from Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Tap, dry cleaners, and a 5-minute walk to the Braddock Road metro, this home offers easy access to all that Del Ray has to offer. Park your car in the large driveway and stroll down The Avenue to enjoy a variety of coffee shops, dining options, shopping, and entertainment. Welcome home to 808 Mount Vernon Ave, where luxury living meets urban convenience!
Open House: Saturday and Sunday from 1-3 p.m.
808 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria 22301 — $1,175,000
Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].
- 1800 Mount Vernon Avenue #210, Alexandria 22301 — $465,000
- 439 N Peyton Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,700,000
- 5109 Talbot Place, Alexandria 22304 — $898,000
- 812 Montgomery Street, Alexandria 22314 — $899,950
Happy House Hunting!
In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!
Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria
You’re invited to shop at the 32nd Annual Tossed & Found Rummage Sale brought to you by the Junior League of Washington!
The sale is on March 16 and 17, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
The sale features:
- Gently used name-brand items
- Children’s clothes and toys
- Men’s and women’s clothing
- Luggage
- Household items
- Furniture and much more
And all at bargain prices!
You might even find items that still have their original price tags on them! The sale is located at 2100-B Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA 22202. For more information, visit jlw.org/tossedandfound.
This week’s Q&A column is sponsored and written by Hope Peele of The Peele Group and McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact The Peele Group at 703-244-6115 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.
Question: How do I start the downsizing process?
Answer: We all know that life is short. There will inevitably be a time when we get to a point at which we can no longer be responsible for our belongings. Whether it’s death, disease, or simply downsizing due to mobility, at some point we will all need to rely on others. Someday we will leave behind our belongings, and someone we love will need to deal with them.
It’s a much better idea to address these concerns sooner rather than later, to alleviate the burden on our family, friends, and future selves.
Below is a guide for those of us who may be planning to downsize, or who may be responsible for a loved one’s belongings at some point in the future.
Before it’s time
Whether you or your family members are thinking of downsizing in the next five months, or five years, there are a few things that you can do now to help make the process go more smoothly — whenever it will start.
First, have a conversation with your loved ones! This is a collaborative project that everyone should be involved in. If you are a parent, your children may want to be involved in dividing up items that are leaving the home. You may have friends that will cherish certain things of yours. This can be an emotional process, and it’s much easier to work through before downsizing is imminent, to minimize stress and to set expectations.
In my experience, it can often happen that parents hold onto certain items, like furniture or cutlery sets, to pass on to their children. In most of these cases though, they haven’t actually told their children that these items are intended for them, and the children don’t necessarily want them. So, ask them now and get rid of the things that they don’t really want on your own.
When it’s time
Here are some of our favorite experts, that you may want to enlist to help in the process:
- Estate Sales: Maybe there are collector’s items that are worth selling at auction. Maybe there are a lot of things that can be sold in an estate sale, or just taken to a warehouse and sold there. Four Sales is a wonderful, local company who can help with all of this.
- Junk Removal: For whatever is leftover and can’t be sold, 123Junk will haul it away. They are just as careful as movers and will even empty your junk drawer. It’s as easy as sticking tape on cabinets!
- Mover: For everything else, you’ll need a mover. Hildrup Movers will even pack up part of the home and come back a month or so later in case you want to leave furniture for staging during a home sale.
- Realtor: Even if you’re not planning on buying a new home, your realtor will connect you with their trusted contacts, as I have done here. Realtors can also help with referrals to senior living communities if that’s the direction you’re going.
Throughout
Celebrate the future! It’s exciting to move into a new stage of life, and it’s important to acknowledge that while often a little stressful, this can be an exciting time. I work with many clients going through this transition — choosing a more simplified lifestyle with less maintenance, and less clutter is always a good thing!
Ready to start your own downsizing journey? Join us on April 11 at our Downsizing & Planning for the Future event for expert tips from a Professional Organizer, an Estate Sale Owner, Local Moving Experts, a Junk Removal Expert and The Peele Group at McEnearney — Kim and Hope Peele & Nancy Smith!
This will be an informative session on how to get started and accomplish your goals, with time for Q&A.
When: April 11 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. with extra time for Q&A.
Where: James Duncan Library, 2701 Commonwealth Avenue. Space is LImited. RSVP required — [email protected].
Hope Peele is a licensed real estate agent with McEnearney Associates, Inc. in Alexandria, Virginia. She grew up in Old Town and currently lives in Del Ray. As a partner with The Peele Group, Hope is dedicated to guiding her clients successfully through the many-faceted process of buying or selling a home. Contact Hope at 703-244-6115.
If you would like a question answered in our weekly column or to set up an appointment with one of our Associates, please email: [email protected] or call 703-549-9292.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.McEnearney.com Equal Housing Opportunity. #WeAreAlexandria
Just Listed highlights Alexandria City properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by the Jen Walker Team (Licensed in VA) of McEnearney Associates REALTORS®.
Welcome Back!
Jen Walker here with The Jen Walker Team! We are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.
Our esteemed McEnearney Associates, Inc. colleague, Kari Steinberg has a must see listing this week!
She boasts:
Stunning Old Town rowhome updated from top to bottom. The raised flower bed and elevated patio greet you as you enter the property. Once inside you will find a bright open floor plan which was completely updated within the last few years. Hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, crown molding, custom real-wood plantation shutters and a recently added custom, vintage-brick exposed wall are only a few of the highlights.
Front of the house hosts a living room, dining area and half bath. The kitchen falls in the middle of the house and features a center island, loads of counter space and no lack of cabinets. Family room off the kitchen in the rear of the house and leads to the deck and 2 off street parking spaces. Main level is completely open, so you are part of the action no matter where you are. Heading upstairs you will find the primary bedroom with en-suite bath and huge walk-in closet. Additionally on this level there are two more bedrooms with a Jack-N-Jill bathroom and the convenience of laundry on the bedroom level.
The basement hosts a 4th bedroom and a 3rd full bathroom. Large rec room is currently being used as gym space and media room. Washer/dryer hookups in basement for a second unit. Direct outside access to front of the house provides opportunity for au-pair or in-law suite.
New roof and gutters 2023. New HVAC 2022. Storm windows installed on rear of house with UV coating. Beverage fridge in kitchen 2023. Everything has been done. The epitome of Turnkey! And don’t forget the TWO off-street parking spaces in the back of the home. Assumable VA loan at 3% interest.
Open House: Sunday, March 10 from 1-3 p.m.
707 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 — $1,775,000
Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].
- 100 W Mount Ida Avenue, Alexandria 22305 — $1,250,000
- 2718 Hemlock Avenue, Alexandria 22305 — $915,000
- 2706 Valley Drive, Alexandria 22302 — $1,675,000
- 2456 Garnett Drive, Alexandria 22311 — $725,000
- 4666 Lawton Way, ALX 22311 – $335,000
Happy House Hunting!
In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!
Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria
Just Listed highlights Alexandria City properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by the Jen Walker Team (Licensed in VA) of McEnearney Associates REALTORS®.
Welcome Back!
Jen Walker here with The Jen Walker Team! We are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.
Luxurious living in exclusive Printers Row! This meticulously maintained, end-unit townhome is defined by its modern style, featuring a bright and open main level floor plan, high windows, 10-foot ceilings, and several private outdoor spaces. The spacious main level features an oversized dining space, gorgeous kitchen, a large living room, convenient half bath, pantry, and a private outdoor patio — great for summer BBQs! The kitchen is a chef’s dream with quartz counter-tops and island, white subway tile backsplash, ample cabinetry, Wolf gas range, Zephyr hood and Kitchen Aid refrigerator and dishwasher.
Head upstairs to the second floor, which is dedicated to the beautiful primary bedroom suite. This serene retreat features a balcony, a spa-like ensuite bath and amazing closet space with customized shelving. The primary bath has a double vanity, walk-in shower and Victoria & Albert bathtub. The third floor boasts two large bedrooms with great closet space, a shared hall bath and laundry. On the fourth floor is a lofted living room with a wet bar. Head outside to the private, two-tiered rooftop deck with views of the Potomac River and D.C.!
This private, gated enclave of North Old Town is situated steps from the Mt. Vernon Trail with access to many restaurants such as Hank’s Oyster Bar, Oak Steak House, Sisters Thai, Café 44 and St. Elmo’s Coffee among others. Trader Joe’s and Harris Teeter are within walking distance, so you can leave the car at home (2 garage spaces — one with an EV charger!). Less than a mile to the Braddock Road Metro, two traffic lights to D.C., and a short drive to Reagan National Airport, this home is ideal for commuting!
Welcome Home!
Open House: Saturday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3 from 1-3 p.m.
328 Third Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,499,000
Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].
- 711 Upland Place, Alexandria 22314 — $999,900
- 120 Wolfe Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,300,000
- 3713 Edison Street, Alexandria 22305 — $600,000
- 300 Ashby Street, Alexandria 22305 — $1,550,000
- 47 Dale Street, Alexandria 22305 — $569,900
Happy House Hunting!
In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!
Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria
This week’s Q&A column, sponsored and written by McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria, is a bit of a departure from our usual format. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact us at 703-549-9292. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.
Question: With interest rates fluctuating how can I confidently search for my next home?
Answer: There are myriad programs and creative financing options that can pave the way to owning a home if you know who to ask and prepare ahead.
As we prepare for the 2024 spring market, Realtors and their clients are having in-depth discussions about what they can afford and how to secure their financing. But many wannabe buyers are dissuaded from believing homeownership is in the cards because they don’t have a big down payment, need to sell an existing home first, or are retired, among other hurdles. But with guidance from a savvy lender, the doors to homeownership start to open up.
Brian Bonnet and Eric Boutcher of Atlantic Coast Mortgage recently held classes for McEnearney agents to review financing programs and products for buyers eager to purchase but who need a little extra help putting their financing together. They reviewed common buyer challenges and the solutions available through ACM’s lending programs and those offered by housing agencies like Virginia Housing, Maryland’s Community Development Agency, and DC’s Open Doors.
Scenario 1: First-time purchaser with little available cash
Agents shared that many buyers are waiting on the sidelines because of concerns of not having a 20% down payment. In reality, there are many lower down payment options, even for conventional loans.
For Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, who provide guidelines for the vast majority of loans originated nationwide, the minimum down payment is only 3% for first-time homebuyers (which applies even if you’ve owned a home before but not in the last three years) and for higher-priced loans of $766,550-$1,149,825 the minimum down payment is only 5%. There are even lower down payment programs, such as those provided by VH, which are income-dependent programs with 0-3% down payments. VHDA provides both conventional first mortgages up to 97% and grants that can be used toward down payments.
The Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) is a key resource for individuals seeking to achieve homeownership in Virginia. Recently, VHDA introduced groundbreaking changes aimed at expanding accessibility to their programs, notably eliminating the first-time homebuyer requirement which opens opportunities for a broader range of buyers. Additionally, VHDA offers a 2% grant program, providing financial assistance towards down payments and closing costs, easing the financial burden of purchasing a home. Another noteworthy initiative is the VHDA Plus program, which offers 100% financing, and some buyers may even qualify for an additional 1.5% in funds to be applied toward closing costs. Through the recent guideline changes, VHDA is enhancing affordability and making homeownership dreams more achievable for Virginians.
In one example Bonnet shared, a qualified buyer using the Virginia Housing (VH) Plus program could purchase a $300,000 condo with a first mortgage of $291,000 and a second mortgage of $13,500 for total financing of $304,500. That means the buyer can finance $4,500 of the total closing costs, leaving them with a cash requirement of roughly $8,200.
In another example, for a $500,000 townhouse with a first mortgage of $485,000 and a second mortgage of $22,500, the borrower’s cash needed is approximately $7,900. In both scenarios, buyers do need cash funds, but as seen in these examples, the amount required was less than $10,000, much lower than many buyers expect they’ll need.
Atlantic Coast Mortgage offers a grant program for eligible buyers to help with down payment and closing cost assistance. Boutcher explained that eligible first-time home buyers can receive up to a $12,500 grant and community partners — which includes firefighters, first responders, doctors, nurses, law enforcement, educators, and more — may be eligible for a grant of up to $15,000. This program has income limits based on household size but is eligible throughout the DMV and beyond.
Scenario 2: Home to sell and can’t compete with a Home Sale Contingency
In a competitive market, a home sale contingency is generally a non-starter for sellers who want “clean” contracts with few or zero contingencies, but agents know that potential seller-buyers want to avoid selling their existing home before they have their next home to move to. Stalemate, right?
Not always, says Bonnet. “I have active customers who thought they couldn’t purchase before first selling because they needed the cash equity from their existing home, and they cannot qualify for the new traditional loan without getting rid of the existing home loan,” he shared as he explained how they worked out a plan using a bridge loan.
There are two types of bridge loans that Atlantic Coast Mortgage offers: a cash-out bridge loan and a purchase bridge loan. In the first, owners can refinance their current home to allow for a line of credit that can be used for a down payment or closing costs on a new home and must be repaid within three months.
“We have qualified them for a bridge loan on their existing home without consideration of their debt service on the next home,” Bonnet explained. With that bridge loan, they convert equity to cash to be used as a down payment on the next $1.1M home.”
Bonnet continued, “Because they don’t qualify for a traditional loan on the next home while carrying the debt on the existing home, we have also qualified them for a bridge loan on the new home without consideration of the debt on the existing home. With this unique Atlantic Coast Mortgage underwriting guideline, the seller-buyers are now able to write a contract that is not contingent on the sale of their existing home, and, if they choose, they can waive financing and appraisal contingencies and be in the hunt as competitive prospective homebuyers.”
Just Listed highlights Alexandria City properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by the Jen Walker Team (Licensed in VA) of McEnearney Associates REALTORS®.
Welcome Back!
Jen Walker here with The Jen Walker Team! We are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.
Just listed by our McEnearney Associates, Inc esteemed colleagues, Mason Bavin and Susan Anthony!
Their listing boasts the Old Town Greens is a sought-after community for many reasons! With a neighborhood feel, one is within a short walk to all the amenities offered including the community pool, playground, tennis courts and the picnic area with grills. With easy access to the recently opened Potomac Yard metro, George Washington Parkway, US Route One, the Beltway, Potomac Yard Center, Reagan National Airport, the Pentagon, Amazon HQ2 and the Virginia Tech campus, it is easy to understand why this development at North Old Town is so popular to commuters.
Finally, personal enjoyment and entertaining are within minutes to the Heart of Old Town, Mount Vernon bike, walking and jogging trail, the Potomac River, and the shops on Slaters Lane: Rustico, Buzz, Slater’s Market and more! 703 Norfolk Lane is a gem! Situated on a quiet street in the center of the development, it has been carefully updated and beautifully maintained by the original owners. One enters the main level to the large entrance foyer from the brick sidewalk flanked by beautiful mature plantings at the front of the home or from the two-car garage at the rear. This level offers a range of possibilities!
With floor-to-ceiling south-facing windows, the light-filled room on the main level, along with a full bath, offers the perfect spot for a bedroom, in-law or nanny suite, exercise room or office. The full-size washer and dryer are located on this level. Plenty of storage plus the hot water heater are conveniently located in the garage. The upper-level features separate dining and living room areas. Both rooms have chair rail, molding and 10’ ceilings and the living room features built-in bookcases with storage cabinetry. The open kitchen is beautifully upgraded and includes a desk for the busy homeowner! Along with the comforts of a sitting area with gas fireplace and desk, there is a gas cooktop and many of the stainless-steel appliances have been replaced, the upgraded cherry cabinetry with newer hardware is forty-two inches and includes shelving for cookie sheets.
The floors are of non-breakable, twelve-inch Italian tile. The counters are of upgraded granite with a custom rounded edge. From the kitchen, enjoy the outside from the spacious balcony! The owners installed hardwood flooring on the stairs to the two upper levels. The next level features an owners’ suite with an oversized bath which includes a soaking tub, separate shower, and dual sinks as well as a large walk-in closet with closet organizers. A third generous-sized bedroom and bath are on this level as well. Finally, the owner’s suite leads to a large loft. The stairs and loft are newly carpeted. As on the main level, many opportunities abound for this private extra living space!
All in all, this exceptional property will delight the new owner for years to come!
Open this weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 1-3 p.m.
703 Norfolk Lane, Alexandria, VA 22314 — $929,900
Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].
- 1 W Maple Street, #101, Alexandria 22301 — $475.000
- 19 Cedar Street, Alexandria 22301 — $1,735,000
- 22 Bakers Walk #105, Alexandria 22314 — $1,299,900
- 203 Martin Lane, Alexandria 22304 — $695,000
Happy House Hunting!
In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!
Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria
This week’s Q&A column is written by David Howell, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant market news, contact David at 703-855-5089 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.
Question: How did the Alexandria real estate market start the new year?
Answer: This week we look at market activity for January 2024 compared with January 2023 for the City of Alexandria and South Alexandria (Fairfax County portions of Alexandria). The charts below show available inventory at the end of the month, contract activity by price range, contract activity by property type (condos, attached homes, and detached homes), and the average days on the market. We have often discussed the continuing pressures of low inventory on our local market, and January shows us how strong those pressures continue to be.
If you are interested in more information, every month on our website we profile the most important market indicators for Northern Virginia — contract activity, interest rates, inventory, affordability, and the direction of the market — in an easy to read and digest summary followed by supporting charts and data.
City of Alexandria
Fully Available Listings by Price Range
- The month-end inventory for the City of Alexandria decreased 41.4% for January 2024 compared to January 2023. The number of homes coming on the market decreased 6.0% — which was 10 fewer homes coming on the market.
- Inventory reflects contract activity and new listings from previous months as well as the current month.
New Contract Activity by Price Range
- Overall contract activity in the City of Alexandria decreased 12.8% for January 2024 compared to January 2023.
- Contract activity was higher for homes priced $750,000-$999,999.
Just Listed highlights Alexandria City properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by the Jen Walker Team (Licensed in VA) of McEnearney Associates REALTORS®.
Welcome Back!
Jen Walker here with The Jen Walker Team! We are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.
Welcome to this exquisite end townhome nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, where timeless charm meets modern luxury. Meticulously renovated and restored, this all-brick residence boasts a stunning interior showcasing impeccable craftsmanship and tasteful upgrades throughout.
Park in the garage and head to a cozy first floor den/office with fireplace — ideal for game day or working from home! Head upstairs and find a generously-sized living room (with a second fireplace), kitchen, balcony and half bath. The chef’s kitchen features a porcelain slate floor, top-of-the-line LG stainless steel appliances, upgraded granite countertops, and a thoughtfully redesigned island, perfect for both cooking and entertaining.
Up one more level, luxury abounds in the spacious primary bed with spa-like ensuite bath — beautifully appointed with Carrera marble, large shower and soaking tub making spa day every day. Storage is a breeze with a custom Elfa closet system in the closet. A second bedroom and full bath round out this level. On the upper level is a fabulous third bedroom with full bath that could double as a playroom, family room or guest space.
Residents of Old Town Village have exclusive access to a host of modern amenities, including a saltwater pool, exercise room, hot tub, party room, library and tot lot, all within a partially gated community. Situated just three blocks from the vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment options of King Street, you’ll enjoy the quintessential Old Town lifestyle. Stroll to Whole Foods, the picturesque Potomac River and the King Street Metro.
Polished, pristine and move-in ready, this exceptional townhome offers a rare opportunity to experience the best of Old Town living!
306 S Fayette Street, Alexandria 22314 — $5,400/month
Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].
- 207 Duncan Avenu, Alexandria 22301 — $1,580,000
- 217 Tennessee Avenue, Alexandria 22305 — $739,900
- 505 N Quaker Lane N, Alexandria 22304 — $2,795,000
- 4691 Longstreet Lane #101, Alexandria 22311 — $475,000
Happy House Hunting!
In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!
Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria