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Just Listed in Alexandria: October 18, 2024

By Sponsor

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 have been recently lauded with the #1 Real Estate Team in Virginia 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 223 E Oxford Avenue — a detached bungalow in the heart of Del Ray. Situated on a beautiful corner lot, this home boasts 3 beds and 2 full baths and so much more! The charming front porch greets you to this sweet home — enter into the living room, where you will find a wood-burning fireplace flanked by sconces – a cozy space for hosting friends or sipping cocoa by the fire! This room flows easily into the dining room, which has a wall of built-ins and space for a large table. From here, head to the kitchen — spacious and functional with ample cabinetry, but ready for you to make your own. The rear or the home features a large sunroom with soaring ceilings and windows (all new windows throughout the house) on three sides. This cheerful room is perfect for working from home, lazy weekend afternoons, or even catching up on the latest binge worthy show. Rounding out the main level are two bedrooms and a full bathroom. Upstairs, a sitting room area takes you to a very large upper bedroom. With room for a king-sized bed (or two!), this bedroom is a great primary suite or could be a combined bedroom/office. The lower level has a fabulous recreation room, office/bedroom, and a full bathroom. This level would be a great guest area and has access to the rear yard. A laundry room and utility/storage area round out the lower level. The backyard is expansive and features a mature Japanese Maple tree and more. There is a parking pad, and a shed located at the rear of the home – making parking a breeze. Leave your car at home and walk to all that Del Ray has to offer. From the quiet park across the street to the Saturday Farmer’s Market one block away; you will love being in the center of it all. Just steps to shops, restaurants, cafes, pilates and yoga and so much more, — Del Ray is a bustling center with events (Halloween Parade and Cinema Del Ray are coming up!) and community activities. Easily walkable to Metro and close to Route 1, the GW Parkway and I-395, commuting is a breeze! Do not miss this gem — Welcome Home!

Open House: Saturday, October 19, 1-3 p.m. and Sunday, October 10, 1-3 p.m.

223 E Oxford Avenue, ALX 22301 — $1,049,000

223 E Oxford Avenue

Click here for other Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703.675.1566 or email [email protected].

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

Celebrating community at Children’s House Montessori School

By Sponsor
Children’s House Montessori School

Since welcoming students to the newly renovated campus in September, Children’s House Montessori School (CHMS) is proudly witnessing children thrive in their engaging Montessori environments each day.

At CHMS in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, community is at the heart of the school’s mission. Recently, families and staff came together for the annual trip to a local fall pumpkin farm, where a day of fun and connection unfolded. This event is just one of many community-building activities that CHMS hosts throughout the year, all aimed at fostering strong relationships among families and staff.

The community enjoyed tractor rides through the park, with the joy on the children’s faces truly infectious. Many were seen encouraging one another to try new experiences, such as feeding the animals or helping each other navigate the large play structures. These moments not only fostered confidence among the children but also provided parents with opportunities for meaningful conversations with Montessori Guides.

The giant slides added an extra layer of excitement, generating laughter and creating lasting memories for everyone involved. Such shared experiences contribute to a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among families within the CHMS community.

Reflecting on the day highlights the importance of togetherness. Events like this allow families to celebrate their shared journey and strengthen the connections that enhance each child’s educational experience.

Submit an application to Children’s House Montessori School to experience firsthand the vibrant community and individualized approach that make CHMS a special place for families!

Apply Now!

Ask McEnearney: How should I prepare financially to buy a home?

By Sponsor

This week’s Q&A column is sponsored and written by McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. 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: How should I prepare financially to buy a home?

Answer: September brought several positive changes to the real estate market for homebuyers, including the Federal Reserve’s decision to cut rates for the first time in more than four years, an improvement in the home affordability index by 4.1%, and an increase in household income by 3.1%.

There are even signs that home prices, while still continuing to rise in markets with limited housing inventory, are increasing at a slower rate, reporting just a 0.01% uptick for the most recent report in July.

Even better news for homebuyers in our region, seasonally adjusted monthly price changes from June 2024 to July 2024 were down by -0.7 percent in the South Atlantic division. Both presidential candidates have also announced their plans to increase housing affordability, following up President Biden’s White House proclamation in May with initiatives for tax credits, cash grants, elimination of some fees on federally-backed mortgages.

While homebuyers in our area are definitely feeling the effects of a strong seller’s market, these small but steady shifts mean that those in the market to buy in the near future have reasons to be hopeful that a home purchase is within reach… with a bit of planning and a smart buying strategy.

Determine Your Budget & Timeline

Homebuyers should start their strategic planning by taking a detailed look at their monthly income and expenses along with their timeline for making a move, reviewing how much they need to save on a monthly basis to ensure that short, intermediate, and long-term savings goals are funded.

“There are many people who will give you the ‘Starbucks Example’ of savings and advise, ‘Just cut back on your weekly Starbucks runs, put that money into savings and you’ll start to see your nest egg grow,’” explains Chris Woods, a Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Silvis Financial.

“But it’s the overspending on the Big-Ticket items (like vehicles and vacations) that can significantly hamper someone’s ability to save money over the immediate long term. These are some of the most consequential financial choices you can make, and it’s important to think through and plan for the impact it will have on your household budget for the years and decades to come.”

In addition to keeping an emergency fund of 3+ months of monthly expenses to cover unexpected and onetime expenses, Woods advises buyers to consider other life events and goals that they might also be saving for: a vehicle, wedding, children, tuition, travel, monetary support for family members.

“A hefty, fixed monthly mortgage payment can keep you from saving for some of your life goals and limit the discretionary spending on activities that you love to do,” says Woods. “A more manageable mortgage payment will give you margin in your budget in the event that your expenses increase or your income decreases down the road.”

Build a Nest Egg

As to how to help savings grow, Woods suggests that buyers who are looking to purchase in the next 3-12 months should put their money into a high-yield savings account, adding that sometimes online savings accounts will offer higher interest rates than brick-and-mortar institutions. He suggests checking out options at NerdWallet, an online resource for many financial milestones and experiences.

For a longer timeframe, say up to 3 years, Woods suggests parking cash in FDIC-insured CDs. Keep in mind that as the Fed continues to cut rates, CD returns will also decrease, and locking in a rate now can ensure a higher return.

Line Up Your Financing

The next step in a buyer’s strategy is connected with a local lender or their current financial institution to determine a budget, clear up any credit or debt issues, and establish a timeline for the homebuying process. One reason to consider working with a local lender over a national bank is their knowledge of local programs that can provide additional money and grants to buyers who qualify. (Tip: Realtors® are a fantastic resource here, too, and can help buyers find a great lender to speak with.)

“Be firm in what you know you can afford before a lender tells you what you qualify for,” advice Woods. “This is important because a lender will look at a buyer’s income and current debt to determine the amount of loan they would qualify for, but those ratios aren’t taking into account savings and financial goals along with discretionary spending.”

Woods advises that when trying to determine how much a buyer can afford, factor in all these items alongside known fixed costs to determine how much to spend on a mortgage payment.

He shared a story about clients who looked for properties that were 20% less than what they qualified for, which allowed them to continue to fund their other financial goals while also giving them flexibility if they found themselves competing for a home and needed to escalate their offer.

A reminder for renters: utilities, parking, condominium/HOA fees, and other housing expenses are often built into the monthly rental amount. Being able to afford $3,000 in rent doesn’t necessarily mean that the same $3,000 for a mortgage is equally affordable.

Buying a home involves many moving pieces, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whatever your plans are, start a discussion now with your Realtor about getting started on the path to home ownership.

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

Open House at Del Ray Montessori School this Saturday, October 19

By Sponsor
1/10

Join The Del Ray Montessori School this Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for an Open House!

We invite families to explore our beautiful Montessori classrooms, thoughtfully curated to nurture each child’s interests and development.

Experience firsthand how our environment is designed to meet children where they are, fostering independence and a lifelong love of learning. Whether you’re new to Montessori or looking to deepen your understanding, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect with our dedicated staff and see our vibrant community in action.

We would also like to invite you to our Montessori Outcomes Parent Night on Thursday, October 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. This event will be hosted in the Del Ray United Methodist Church’s Lunceford Hall.

In education, outcomes are usually understood in the context of “inputs.” Put the knowledge in — out comes that same knowledge. How is Montessori education different? What are the outcomes we are looking for?  Come for a dive into children’s discoveries about learning, the world, and themselves through Montessori. Register to learn more!

Located near the intersection of Commonwealth and Windsor Avenues, we are “The Little School Around the Corner.” We serve children ages 18 months to six years old and an elementary program for grades 1st-6th.

If you have questions, please give us a call at 703-380-1241 or shoot us an email at [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming you and your family!

Register for Montessori Outcomes Parent Night

Just Listed in Alexandria: October 11, 2024

By Sponsor

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 have been recently lauded with the #1 Real Estate Team in Virginia 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.

Gorgeous new construction in the heart of Del Ray! This 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath detached craftsman was just completed by distinguished, local builder — Windmill Hill Design Build — and features smart, on-trend finishes with cozy details.

No detail has been overlooked — from the front porch with beautiful brick, custom woodwork and trim, thoughtful yet fun paint and wallpaper, fabulous lighting, wood-burning fireplace and spacious screened porch with a heater! From the tile to faucets, mirrors to lighting, counters to cabinetry — each space was carefully crafted to make you feel right at home. Enter into the foyer from the large front porch, where you will find an office to the left and a spacious dining room to the right. Hosting is a breeze with the dining area connecting to a dry bar and pantry that leads into the kitchen.

The 48 inch range (with pot filler!) and custom hood will please the most discerning chef or the everyday cook, and the oversized island has plenty of space for guests to gather or for casual meals. The contrasting island and perimeter cabinetry feature moody green and blues, and the crisp, white hood and tile provide contrast and keep the space sleek and open. The kitchen overlooks a spacious family room complete with a wood-burning fireplace and beautiful brick surroundings. The screened porch provides an extra living space or an outside home office — great for working from home on crisp fall days. A wallpapered half bath and amazing mudroom round out the first level.

Head upstairs, where three gold lantern style lights will guide you to the four bedrooms and three baths on this level. The primary suite has great light and boasts a walk-in closet, bathroom with shower, private toilet, double vanity and soaking tub. A second bedroom has an en-suite bath, and the third and fourth bedrooms share a hall bath with a tub/shower combo. A spacious laundry room is also located on this level.

The basement is spacious with soaring ceilings and features a recreation room with custom built-ins that are perfect for watching the big game or movie night. An exercise room has additional built-ins and can easily accommodate your treadmill, Peloton, weights and more. The fifth bedroom and fourth full bathroom are located on this level as well — great for guests or an additional home office space. A large utility area and storage space round out this level.

Outside, new fencing and landscaping provide for a usable yet pretty yard. Park your car in the driveway and walk to all that Del Ray has to offer. A stone’s throw from award-winning Stracci Pizza and an easy walk up the Avenue to shops and restaurants and west to the Metro. You will love this location.

Enjoy the Farmer’s Market, Art on the Avenue, Cinema Del Ray, the Halloween Parade and so many more fun events. Just minutes to Reagan National Airport and I-395 plus the GW Parkway, this is a commuter’s dream.

Welcome Home!

110 E Raymond Avenue, Alexandria 22301 — $2,399,000

110 E Raymond Avenue

Click here for other Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703.675.1566 or email [email protected].

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

Ask McEnearney: How much money do I need to buy a home?

By Sponsor

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 much money do I need to buy a home?

Answer: I work with a lot of buyers and the #1 concern is — “Will I be able to afford the costs of buying a home?”

My best suggestion is to talk to a lender as soon as you are considering buying a home. They can help you strategize, even if it’s not for a year or more that you plan to buy. They can save you precious time in avoiding looking at homes that will not work for your budget. They can help you fix things on your credit report so that you aren’t surprised at the last minute with issues that can increase your interest rate. They may even surprise you with how easy it could be to buy a home.

Here are some key points to consider when buying a home.

Downpayment

While you will usually need a down payment, the most important thing to know here is that it doesn’t always have to be 20% down. In fact, most of the buyers that I work with are putting much less of a down payment towards the purchase price.

If you are past or present military, you may qualify for a VA loan, which does not require a downpayment at all. Most buyers will need to put something down, though.

For a conventional loan, you will need to put between 5% and 20% down. The lower amounts usually apply to first-time home buyers, and if you can afford the 20% down, it will help you avoid a monthly mortgage insurance fee (PMI). Again, a lender can help you figure out your options.

There are also some First Time Home Buyer Grants. Virginia has a Down Payment Assistance Grant that never needs to be repaid. There are income limits, but last time I checked, the limit for 2 people was $141K and the max home sale price was $750K. Be sure to ask your lender about this. I have some lenders that I can recommend that know about this program. Just ask!

Closing Costs

When purchasing a home with a mortgage, there will always be some closing costs. This tends to be about 2% of the sales price, but every situation is different, and they could be higher, depending on your situation. It depends on the type of loan you are using, plus there are standard costs factored in, such as appraisal, title insurance, attorney’s fees, taxes, and more. It’s best to discuss this with your lender in advance.

Your Realtor can send a specific home to the lender and they can give you an estimate on all costs. They can also send the info to their trusted settlement company for an estimate. However, your lender will need to weigh in as well.

Realtor Costs

You should also find a great realtor early in the process. They can help you start shopping neighborhoods and understand the process of buying a home. They have a fee for their services, and when you sign your buyer representation paperwork with your Realtor, this fee is outlined.

However, the fee is usually not collected until the time you purchase the home. When you make the offer on a home, you can ask the seller to pay the Realtor fees, which can be 2.5% to 3% or you can pay the fees. In my experience, sellers have been willing to pay the buyers agent compensation.

In conclusion, my best advice is to talk with a lender and a realtor very early in the process. They are there to help you and to be sure that you are super happy with your home when you do buy. As you probably already know, lenders and realtors are your advocates for life.

Whenever you need advice on the best updates for your home over the years, or a refinance if the rates get better, and when it’s time to buy again, they want you to reach out to them and refer your friends and family. So, find those relationships early in the process, and trust them to lead you to your next home!

Hope Peele

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 in Alexandria: October 4, 2024

By Sponsor

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 have been recently lauded with the #1 Real Estate Team in Virginia 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.

Discover this charming, storybook, home nestled in Braddock Heights, one of the most desirable neighborhoods of Alexandria City!

This dutch colonial home offers plenty of space inside and out with 3 bedrooms/2.5 bathrooms over 3 levels. The main level features hardwood floors, a spacious living room with wood-burning fireplace, and access to a 3 seasons room. The dining room flows into the kitchen which features gas cooking, ample storage, and overlooks the huge backyard! Walk outside onto the deck, the perfect place to dine outdoors or even host a fall gathering!

Don’t miss the rare main level powder room before heading upstairs. Hardwoods extend upstairs to three spacious and bright bedrooms, and a tastefully updated hall bathroom. The lower level is partially finished and the entire footprint of the main level to include the sunroom! The lower level recreation room is perfect for a family room, office, or guest area with an adjacent full bathroom. The laundry area, utilities, and amazing storage areas can also be found on this level.

Enjoy living in the perfect Braddock Heights location — walk or bike to Fairlington Centre and Del Ray shops and restaurants! Steps to the sought after George Mason ES. Hike nearby parks and the quiet trails at Monticello Park! Ideally located just over 1.5 miles to both Braddock metro and the Amtrak, a couple of blocks from the DASH bus stop, easy access to I-395, National Airport, D.C., and more!

Open House: Saturday, October 5 from 1-3 p.m. and Sunday, October 6 from 2-4 p.m.

2429 Ridge Road Drive, Alexandria 22302 — $925,000

2429 Ridge Road Drive

Click here for other Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703.675.1566 or email [email protected].

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 in Alexandria: September 27, 2024

By Sponsor

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 have been recently lauded with the #1 Real Estate Team in Virginia 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.

Gorgeous new construction in the heart of Del Ray! This 5 bedroom, 4.5 baths detached craftsman was just completed by distinguished, local builder — Windmill Hill Design Build — and features smart, on-trend finishes with cozy details.

No detail has been overlooked, from the front porch with beautiful brick, custom woodwork and trim, thoughtful yet fun paint and wallpaper, fabulous lighting, wood-burning fireplace and spacious screened porch with a heater! From the tile to faucets, mirrors to lighting, counters to cabinetry — each space was carefully crafted to make you feel right at home. Enter into the foyer from the large front porch, where you will find an office to the left and a spacious dining room to the right.

Hosting is a breeze with the dining area connecting to a dry bar and pantry that leads into the kitchen. The 48 inch range (with pot filler!) and custom hood will please the most discerning chef or the everyday cook, and the oversized island has plenty of space for guests to gather or for casual meals. The contrasting island and perimeter cabinetry feature moody green and blues, and the crisp, white hood and tile provide contrast and keep the space sleek and open. The kitchen overlooks a spacious family room complete with a wood-burning fireplace and beautiful brick surroundings.

The screened porch provides an extra living space or an outside home office — great for working from home on crisp fall days. A wallpapered half bath and amazing mudroom round out the first level. Head upstairs, where three gold lantern style lights will guide you to the four bedrooms and three baths on this level. The primary suite has great light and boasts a walk-in closet, bathroom with shower, private toilet, double vanity and soaking tub. A second bedroom has an en-suite bath, and the third and fourth bedrooms share a hall bath with a tub/shower combo. A spacious laundry room is also located on this level.

The basement is spacious with soaring ceilings and features a recreation room with custom built-ins that are perfect for watching the big game or movie night. An exercise room has additional built-ins and can easily accommodate your treadmill, Peloton, weights and more. The fifth bedroom and fourth full bathroom are located on this level as well — great for guests or an additional home office space. A large utility area and storage space round out this level. Outside, new fencing and landscaping provide for a usable yet pretty yard. Park your car in the driveway and walk to all that Del Ray has to offer.

A stone’s throw from award-winning Stracci Pizza and an easy walk up the Avenue to shops and restaurants and west to the Metro. You will love this location. Enjoy the Farmer’s Market, Art on the Avenue, Cinema Del Ray, the Halloween Parade and so many more fun events. Just minutes to Reagan National Airport and I-395 plus the GW Parkway.

This is a commuter’s dream. Welcome Home!

Open House: Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29 from 1-3 p.m.

110 E Raymond Avenue, Alexandria 22301 — $2,399,000

110 E Raymond Avenue

Click here for other Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703.675.1566 or email [email protected].

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

Discover Del Ray Montessori School: Open House October 19

By Sponsor
1/7

Welcome to the Del Ray Montessori School (DRMS)!

Located near the intersection of Commonwealth and Windsor Avenues, we are “The Little School Around the Corner.” Our space accommodates toddler and preschool students ages 18 months to six years old and an elementary program for grades 1st-6th.

Our space includes a large garden and playground area for children to explore and be with nature every day. Enrolled students can also attend before and aftercare as well as our Montessori-based summer camp!

At DRMS, we believe in cultivating classroom communities where empathy, curiosity, and independence flourish. Our approach is grounded in the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) principles, ensuring each child receives a personalized, holistic education that meets their academic and emotional needs.

Our focus is also on community and connection. We stand by our values of community, belonging, and inclusion. We encourage you to see what makes us unique.

Start with an Inquiry call, or visit us at one of our upcoming Open Houses:

  • Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 

We still have limited spots for the 2024-25 school year and are enrolling for the 2025-26 school year. We look forward to connecting with you!

Contact Us Today!

Serenity, culture, and luxury — Ravel & Royale at Strathmore Square

By Sponsor
Ravel and Royale

We are Connected

  • Strathmore membership for arts, dance, and a world–class concert hall
  • Rock Creek Park, Strathmore Lawns, and Strathmore Square at your front door
  • Strathmore Metro station for easy commuting and safe exploring
  • 355, Beltway, 270 all quickly connect you to D.C., Bethesda, Pike and Rose, and beyond

We are Luxury

  • Highest luxury home finishes
  • Naturally inspired lush courtyards
  • Huge landscaped upper–level gardens in select units
  • Continental elegance in interiors and exteriors

We are Different

  • Quiet new community at Strathmore Square
  • Lots of green with all the amenities
  • Curated community retail and a short drive to urban vibrancy

Explore greenery, paths, and trails near Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park and the Strathmore lawns. Relax in a brand-new sophisticated residence with European finishes, generously landscaped terraces, entertainment-focused living spaces, 10’ ceilings, and huge windows for light-filled rooms overlooking the park.

The design focuses on large open entertaining spaces in the most exclusive homes, which allows you to form deeper connections with loved ones as you host memorable dinner parties on your spacious private terrace and expansive living areas. Shed the burden of maintenance and let our incredible management team take care of the details so you can enjoy your new home stress-free.

The green stop on the redline at the Grosvenor Strathmore Metro Station presents an opportunity for luxury living in an art-inspired community. Enjoy access to more, including the nightlife and shopping destinations at Pike and Rose, and Downtown Bethesda, plus all the benefits of membership at Strathmore — the amazing shows at The Music Center, exhibits at The Mansion, summer concerts and outdoor art on the Strathmore Lawn and Sculpture Garden, and our own Strathmore Square music and community events.

Through a one-of-a-kind partnership with Strathmore, residents receive exclusive and diverse Strathmore programming. Enjoy bi-annual sessions with a Curator Concierge, culturally rich performances, and early offerings for premier seats. Enjoy the professional dance conservatory at City Dance on the first floor of Royale, including special resident performances and events.

Close to Rockville Pike and I-495/I-270, yet tucked away in a neighborhood to call your own home to world-class arts and culture — this is Ravel and Royale, where style, connectivity, and serenity meet. Two beautiful variations. One Incredible location.

Leasing now!

Schedule a Personal Tour Today!

Ask McEnearney: Is staging a home worth it?

By Sponsor

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: Is staging a home worth it?

Answer: At some point in every listing appointment, the topic of staging comes up. Should I stage? Is it worth the money? In a word, absolutely!

There are countless articles and statistics that talk about the return on investment for each staging dollar. This is twofold. First, professional stagers know how to lay out a home to maximize the impression through photographs that will bring buyers in from online searches.

Secondly, the wow factor when you walk into the home. A well-staged home is often sold before the buyer leaves the main floor. First impressions can mean everything!

So, What is Staging?

Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale. There are many levels and elements to staging. It can be as simple as decluttering. Or it may mean full professional staging. There is also painting and remodeling. Does the home need a little touch-up paint or a new kitchen? Obviously, homes vary greatly depending on the condition and the means and goals of the sellers.

First things first. As Realtors, we would like every seller to understand when discussing staging. We are terrified we are going to offend you and we have no desire to do so. This will likely be the most uncomfortable, difficult conversation we will have with you. We are not looking forward to telling you that gorgeous expensive antiques need to go. It’s not personal. We simply know, homes that are staged with fresh paint, house appropriate neutral furnishings, and carefully arranged accessories sell faster and for more money. Blame HGTV if you would like. But it’s true.

Staging A Home (Photo by BTW Images).

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