This week’s Q&A column is written by Rebecca McCullough of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact Rebecca at 571-384-0941 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: Are all real estate companies created equal?

Answer: In the competitive landscape of real estate, distinguishing factors often set one company apart from another. Just like the type of car you like to drive, where you like to shop or vacation, you want to look for people and places that align with your needs and goals.

Purchasing a home will likely be one of — if not the most — expensive investments of your life. However, some buyers and sellers are looking for the most inexpensive (cheapest!) way to get this done.

You could view the recent NAR (National Association of Realtors) Settlement as a result of sellers feeling they overpaid their Realtor commissions on the sale of their homes because they did not realize they could negotiate their listing fee.

If you’d like to learn more about the settlement, this article explains it simply: The Lighter Side of Real Estate.

In short, though, the ruling requires two changes:

• The first is that sellers will not be able to advertise a buyer’s agent fee through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
• Secondly, Buyers will have to sign a buyer representation agreement to work with the buyer agent. This allows the buyer to negotiate the representation fee they are willing to pay their agent.

This has been true in Virginia for longer than I’ve been a real estate agent! However, only 14 states currently have that requirement. The lawsuit was filed in a state that did not have a buyer representation agreement.

As real estate agents, we understand that the public is not always truly aware of what we do to execute on a successful home purchase or sale. But this settlement has gone too far with the lack of explanation and understanding of the value of a great agent, and what the ruling will mean for buyers, sellers, and agents in this country. There is so much misinformation about the settlement that it’s hard to keep up with the truth!

One thing is certain right now, the settlement has not been finalized, so no one knows what the final terms will be.

So back to the question at hand, does the real estate company you choose really matter? Of course, the answer is a resounding yes.

When you buy a car, do you think “I want to get the cheapest car I can find?” If so, that sends you down a different path and different goals than the person who says, “I want to get the best value I can.” When you go to the doctor, do you want to see anyone who will see you, or do you want a highly experienced, recommended specialist? What you want — typically — is the best option, the best fit for your needs and goals.

It may appear they are all the same, but when it comes to real estate, each company offers their clients and agents something different. The people who really know how different each company is are the agents who work for them!

Great agents want great companies, and vice versa. At my company, the agents who work at McEnearney Associates are recognized for their unparalleled expertise and in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market. They have additional, high-level staff who support each agent, providing expansive marketing and educational programs, statistical and data analytics, global networking, and a renowned relocation department.

Many companies don’t offer any of this, and the net result is that their agents may get a higher split of their commission, as the company makes less of an investment in the client. But the best agents want more access to knowledge and resources, and they see the value of that in the bigger picture.

At companies like McEnearney Associates, agents have a keen understanding of market trends, pricing dynamics, and neighborhood characteristics, so they can offer invaluable insights to clients and empower them to make informed decisions. This expertise, combined with the company’s extensive resources and professional network, ensures that clients receive the highest level of service and representation. When I joined McEnearney I was so glad to have a team of top-notch marketing professionals who spent 40 hours a week promoting my listings locally, nationally, and globally so I could spend more time with my clients on their transactions.

McEnearney has been in business for over 40 years. It was never their goal to be the biggest, but they wanted to be the best. They are particular about which agents they hire, as their reputation is their most cherished asset. Integrity is at the core of everything. McEnearney Associates holds itself to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, honesty, and fairness in all its dealings.

We always encourage buyers and sellers to interview more than one agent when searching for a real estate professional. But please, don’t call and ask for ‘a deal.’ Take the time to sit down and have a conversation with the agent. Is it a deal if you took a lower fee but sold for $50K less than you could have? You want an agent that you will consider your trusted advisor, similar to what you would want with your financial planner or medical professional.

I’m going to let you in on a secret: a lot of networking and advertising goes on behind the scenes between top agents. We often know of properties that will be coming on the market in the future and can strategize with our clients to be ready to make an offer.

So yes, the brokerage matters. Whatever fee you pay your real estate professional, you want to be getting a lot for your investment. Ask yourself, what is the best option, the best fit, for your specific needs and goals? Then make a few calls and do some interviewing.

Rebecca McCullough has built a successful real estate business in Alexandria and Northern Virginia by providing excellent service to her clients. If you would like more information on selling or buying in today’s complex market, contact Rebecca today at 571-384-0941 or visit her website RebeccaMcCullough.com.

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.

Charming farmhouse in Rosemont with an ideal layout — 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths upstairs! Main level with beautiful hardwoods, handsome built in bookcases, two living spaces, renovated powder room, open kitchen with stainless appliances, crisp white cabinets and striking center island. The charming front porch greets you to this beauty — a great place for evening cocktails, Saturday morning coffee or to just sit and watch the world go by!

The front sitting and living rooms feature soaring ceilings and a bright and airy feel. These rooms easily flow into the kitchen and dining rooms — the kitchen has great cabinets with rollouts for maximum storage. Just off the dining area, walk out to the two tiered deck which overlooks the manicured back yard. A gorgeously renovated powder room with great wallpaper, board and batten trim details, marble vanity and brushed gold fixtures rounds out this level. Head upstairs to three bedrooms and two full baths. The primary suite is very large and boasts double closets. The en-suite bath (just renovated) is a spa-like retreat with a double vanity, frameless glass shower with dark blue subway tile, and hexagon Carrara flooring.

Just off the primary, the private balcony overlooking the rear yard is perfect for morning coffee or working from home on warm spring days. Down the hall, you will find two generously sized bedrooms and a shared hall bath (also just redone). The basement is ideal for storage and houses the HVAC and water heater. Leave your car in the driveway and walk to Braddock Road Metro, King Street Metro, Old Town, Del Ray and more. Welcome Home!

Open House: Saturday, March 23 from 1-3 p.m.

27 E Maple Street, Alexandria, VA 22301 — $1,250,000

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].

• 120A E Raymond Avenue, Alexandria, VA  22301 — $824,900
• 3309 Wyndham Circle #1184, Alexandria, VA 22302 — $299,900
• 3323 Valley Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 — $389,000
• 140 N Gladden, Alexandria, VA 22304 — $674,000
• 1114 Portner Road, Alexandria, VA 22314 — $795,000

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, 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: What are Financing and Appraisal Contingencies in a sales contract?

Answer: It’s not always the offered price of a home that catches a seller’s attention; it could also be how quickly a contract can move to the settlement table. Factors like contingencies — addenda that allow a contract to be voided under certain specified conditions — are an important consideration for both buyers and sellers.

For most sellers, the fewer contingencies in an offer, the better. Every contingency comes with deadlines and terms that must be met and there’s potential for a contract to be delayed or derailed if the buyer doesn’t meet those terms. The reality of the current housing market is that many buyers are waiving their contingencies to appeal to a seller, including two of the most popular contingencies: Financing and Appraisal. But what happens when things go sideways and a buyer encounters trouble financing their loan or the home doesn’t appraise for the ratified contract sales price?

Brian Bonnet, SVP & Senior Loan Officer (NMLS ID 224811) for Atlantic Coast Mortgage, recently spoke with many of our Associates to run through different scenarios that buyers may encounter when using or waiving Financing and Appraisal Contingencies. While he noted that most of the contracts Atlantic Coast Mortgage is seeing have been ratified without a Financing or Appraisal Contingency, there are situations where a qualified buyer should be hesitant to waive one or both of these contingencies.

What do these Contingencies do?

The Financing and Appraisal Contingencies serve to protect a buyer during the real estate transaction. They are included in an offer that requires the buyer to “perform” according to the terms outlined in the contingency or risk defaulting on a ratified contract. If a buyer is not approved by the lender for their proposed financing, the Financing Contingency gives the buyer the option to cancel the contract without penalty (if they cancel within the terms of the appropriate Contingency Addendum). If a property’s appraised value — an amount that is determined by a licensed appraiser on behalf of the lending institution — doesn’t meet the contract sales price, a buyer has the option to void the contract if the seller doesn’t lower the contract sales price to the appraised value or doesn’t meet the lender’s standards required for the condition of the property.

These contingencies are available to conventional, FHA, and VA buyers while the latter two types of transactions may have additional restrictions on how they are used.

When might a Buyer waive the Financing Contingency?

If a buyer is considering waiving the Financing Contingency, beware of the pitfalls. “It is critically important that their financing is rock solid before they choose to remove that contingency,” Bonnet stressed. He recounted a recent experience with a buyer whose long-time work visa had expired and he therefore wasn’t able to continue at his current job until the visa had been renewed. Because the buyer had a Financing Contingency in place, the contract was voided. Had the contingency not been in place, the buyer could have been subject to losing their earnest money deposit (EMD) or other damages should the seller have elected to sue for defaulting on the contract.

When a Financing Contingency is put in motion, the lender will begin a “canceled, withdrawn, or denied” process and an Adverse Action Letter, also called a Rejection Letter, outlining generic terms of why the financing was denied which is then sent immediately to all parties of the contract. This will be followed up by the buyer’s agent with the required paperwork to void the contract, release the buyer from further obligations, and allow the seller to put the property back on the market.

A buyer may elect to waive this contingency if they are certain their employment is secure, are confident that their financial situation won’t change before settlement, or they are putting down a substantial downpayment that reduces the amount of their loan.

When might a Buyer waive the Appraisal Contingency?

An Appraisal is ordered by the lender to verify that a property is worth the amount of money that is being lent to purchase the property.

For example, if a home is under contract for $500,000 the lender will want to see an appraisal value of $500,000 or greater. If there is an appraisal gap between the contract sales price and the appraised value, an Appraisal Contingency will spell out what happens next: the seller can agree to lower the sales price to the appraised value; the buyer and seller can renegotiate the sales price and the buyer can add additional cash to their offer to make up the difference; or the buyer can void the contract. In the absence of an Appraisal Contingency, the buyer is obligated to bring additional cash to make up the full difference in the appraisal gap.

A buyer may waive this contingency if they have a good cash reserve and can make up the difference without the cash outlay affecting the lending underwriting. Another scenario might be when a property is in an area where there is potential for value growth. Even if the appraisal comes in low, a buyer may elect to make up the cash difference because they are predicting that a property’s equity may grow quickly.

What can Buyers do?

Work with a respected, local lender who will advise buyers honestly and clearly on their individual financial risk. Local lenders have a better understanding of regional market dynamics and can speak to factors that can affect the transaction better than most national lenders who don’t have ready access to local information.

Ensure that when waiving an Appraisal Contingency, the contract specifies that an appraiser will still have access to the property. Many loans may not be approved without an appraisal, regardless of whether a buyer makes the appraisal a contingency to purchase.

Consider the condition of the home before waiving an Appraisal Contingency. Even if the market value of the home is determined to be adequate, a lender may not approve a property deemed uninhabitable. Bonnet notes that while the “vast majority of homes meet (habitability) standards, you don’t want to be the lone property that doesn’t.”

Overall, Bonnet advises borrowers to go into any real estate transaction with “eyes wide open to make an informed decision.” Enlist a respected, local lender and an experienced McEnearney | Middleburg Real Estate | Atoka Properties Associate to be the team that helps you land your next property!

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

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

The holidays can be stressful for everyone, but it can be especially so for separated or divorced parents. With questions about how to make the holidays enjoyable for your children while avoiding conflict with your ex, it can be a difficult time of year.

But with proper planning, you can create a wonderful holiday experience for your kids. Here are some useful tips to get you started.

Be Willing to Make Sacrifices

Remember that being a parent involves making adjustments for your children. So whether you are spending the holidays with your kids or your ex, be prepared to make some compromises to accommodate everyone’s schedule.

Adapting means prioritizing your children’s well-being and being willing to make sacrifices. This could involve abandoning some of your holiday customs or declining invitations to spend time with others in favor of spending time with your children.

While sacrifices are necessary, it’s crucial to make them without letting your children feel like they are to blame. This will help prevent hurt feelings and ensure that your kids do not bear the burden of the issues between you and your ex.

Avoid Arguing in Front of the Kids

It is common to see divorced parents arguing over custody arrangements during the holidays in front of their children. Unfortunately, this can make kids feel confused and sad. It may also confuse them. 

To avoid this, do your best to keep your arguments private and out of your child’s hearing. If you are upset about something, try to deal with your emotions before interacting with your children.

Significantly, as you seek to resolve your conflicts, ensure your solution favors the well-being of your kids over your own. For example, if your ex is unwilling to let you have the children during a certain day of the holidays, you could compromise and agree to have the kids another time instead.

Avoid a Gifting Showdown

Divorced parents often experienced a common problem: the urge to outshine each other by giving their kids extravagant holiday gifts. However, a gifting competition is a no-win situation for both parents because it creates unnecessary tension instead of fostering a united front.

Ideally, it would help if you worked with your ex to decide how much to spend on your kid’s gifts. You should also listen to your ex’s opinion when deciding what to buy. Be willing to accept their input if they do not want kids to have certain gifts due to understandable reasons.

If Things Get Tough, Seek Help

“If you have tried your best to work with your ex to provide a wonderful holiday experience for your kids but still ended up in a disagreement, consider seeking professional help,” says divorce attorney Matt Towson. Talk to your lawyer about your situation and see if they have suggestions for a resolution. A divorce attorney may be able to negotiate with your ex on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair custody arrangement over the holidays.

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