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.

Check out this property listed by our McEnearney Associates, Inc. Colleague, Lisa Groover. Exceptional Design, Fantastic Location and Amenities AND Low Maintenance Condo Living!

Move right in to one of Old Town’s most coveted neighborhoods — just a short walk to the unique shops and acclaimed eateries along King Street, a quick bike ride to Metro and the waterfront, plus incredible community amenities including a saltwater pool and clubhouse, updated fitness center, and community library. With the perfect blend of Old Town charm and modern style, this fabulous two bedroom, two and half bath condo in Old Town Village is the low maintenance easy living lifestyle everyone desires in the heart of the city.

The light and bright open floor plan on the main level with large private shaded balcony overlooking the community is ideal for indoor/outdoor living. Warm, immaculately engineered hardwood floors on both levels and architectural details like crown moldings complement the modern finishes in the updated kitchen and baths. Cook up incredible meals in the beautifully appointed updated kitchen, which boasts quartz counters, designer cabinets, and practically untouched stainless steel appliances, including a French door refrigerator and a five burner gas stove.

The gracious dining room is open to the kitchen with a convenient breakfast bar for entertaining and enjoying quick meals. A dual-sided glass gas fireplace serves both the living and dining rooms, making for unforgettable cozy fall nights with friends. A laundry closet with newer washer and dryer and storage, as well as a convenient powder room, finishes off the main level. Upstairs find two spacious primary suites with updated ensuite baths and closet space to die for, including a walk-in closet large enough to display an incredible wardrobe! Both bedrooms can accommodate king beds or use one as a private home office/welcoming guest suite.

Located in the heart of the city, but on a quiet block, enjoy the excitement of Old Town just outside your door or relax quietly on your beautiful, just refinished deck with your favorite vintage and a good book. All the Old Town Village amenities you could ask for plus tons of welcoming community wide events for neighbors of all ages.

An assigned parking space and guest and on street parking available make sure you or your guests never have to hunt for parking in Old Town again.

Open House: Saturday, September 21 from 2-4 p.m. and Sunday, September 22 from 1-4 p.m.

1404 Roundhouse Lane #309, Alexandria 22314 — $742,000

1404 Roundhouse Lane #309

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].

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 sponsored and written by Brian Bonnet, Senior Loan Officer (NMLS ID# 224811) of Atlantic Coast Mortgage, LLC (NMLS ID# 643114). To learn more about current mortgage rates and the home loan process, contact Brian at 703.766.6702 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: Is that condo you’re eyeing (or selling) on a lending naughty list?

Answer: Stricter lending guidelines for condominium sales mean some properties may not be eligible for certain financing.

Underwriting a residential mortgage loan involves a detailed review of the prospective borrower’s financial picture. It also involves a review of the property to be pledged as collateral for the loan. In the case of loans for condominiums, that review extends beyond the information included in a property’s appraisal report.

Most lenders choose to make sure the entire condominium project is approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for FHA loans and the Department of Veteran Affairs for VA loans.

In the case of conventional loans, both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans require completed condo questionnaires and are obliged to check the Fannie Mae Condo Project Manager (CPM) system to determine whether a loan in a condo project is eligible for sale to Fannie or Freddie. Depending on the responses provided in the condo questionnaire, the lender may then require additional documentation from the condominium association.

The collapse of the Champlain Towers Condo building in Surfside Florida in 2021 has prompted many condo projects to undertake engineering studies of their structures and the lending industry to ascertain whether a condo project presents collateral risk. This increased scrutiny has led to a considerable number of condo projects being listed as “unavailable” within the CPM system.

My recent review of the “unavailable” condo project list for the District of Columbia revealed 30% of projects were on the list because critical repairs are needed and/or the project has significant deferred maintenance. As more condo projects undertake engineering reviews of their structures and facilities, it is likely more projects will be listed as “unavailable” and therefore ineligible for conventional financing until those identified deficiencies are corrected.

The inability to obtain financing for a unit in a condo project is problematic for both purchasers and sellers. Condominium Associations and management companies should be proactive in understanding the requirements of the mortgage industry in order to avoid being deemed ineligible.

When a project does obtain the status of “unavailable,” those condominium associations should be equally proactive in making corrections and communicating with Fannie Mae in order to be removed from the unavailable list as quickly as possible.

Please reach out to me or my colleagues at Atlantic Coast Mortgage for more information about condominium loans and how to find the right lending program for your needs.

If you would like more information about financing a mortgage in today’s market, please contact Brian Bonnet at [email protected] or call 703-766-6702.

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


Alexandria Transit Company (DASH)

Every day, hundreds of passengers board their local DASH bus to get to the important locations in their lives.

Thanks to those loyal residents and our passionate bus operators, DASH is thrilled to announce a new ridership record of over 5.3 million boardings during FY2024!

We will be celebrating this record with a Ridership Record Block Party this Thursday, September 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the William Ramsay Recreation Center. There will be games, music, and food available to commemorate the milestone, so we encourage families to attend!

The nearest bus stop is located on N. Beauregard Street and Sanger Avenue via DASH Line 35.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach us by filling out our contact form or calling 703-746-DASH (3274). Our phone line is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Check us out on our socials: Instagram | Twitter/X | Facebook | Website


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.

LOCATION! Located in the heart of Del Ray, this semi-detached home has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, off-street parking and a wonderful yard!

The main level features a large living room with great flow into the dining area, and a lovely kitchen with gas cooking, great cabinetry, and an island for extra seating and storage. Just off the kitchen is an amazing backyard, fully fenced and perfect for playing outdoors or letting the dogs run around. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms and one full bathroom. The basement has a finished rec room that can also be used for a den or extra guest space with a conveniently connected full bathroom. Laundry room and plentiful storage can also be found in the lower level. D

on’t miss this great opportunity to live near it all! Leave the car in the driveway and walk to shops, restaurants, nearby parks, metro and bus. Easy access to D.C. and the airport as well!

Open House: Sunday, September 15 from 2-4 p.m.

39 E Bellefonte Avenue #1/2, Alexandria 22301 — $889,900

39 E. Bellefonte Ave. #1/2

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].

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 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: I just bought a house, now what?

Answer: In the lead-up to buying a new home, there are a lot of things that buyers need to keep track of in order to get to the finish line. Lately, I’ve had a number of buyers get close to the date and ask, what’s next? Is there anything else that they should think about doing?

Here are a few things that I usually recommend!

  • Change the locks, garage codes, ring camera access, and anything else that might have given someone access to the home at any point. When homes are prepped for listings, there are often multiple copies of the key made and its best practice to be sure that you update all of that.
  • If it fits into your budget and timeline, this is a great time to replace old carpet, and get any painting or floor refinishing done. These projects are much easier to complete when the home is empty. These personal touches also have the added benefit of making the house feel like your new home.
  • Get a deep clean! Even if the sellers cleaned the home, there have likely been a number of people in and out, bringing in dust and debris. This is not a large investment, but the best opportunity to have the cleanest home possible, while it is the most empty it will likely be for years. 
  • Add curtains and shades where needed! Sometimes when a home is on the market, sellers will take window treatments off to let in as much light as possible. When you are actually living in the home, though, you will likely want a little more privacy. Also, whether the seller left theirs behind or not, you’ll probably want all the new shower curtains! 
  • Check or replace filters and batteries. Ideally, there will already be smoke detectors and CO2 detectors in all appropriate locations. Be sure that these are working properly, and have new batteries. Check HVAC filters, and if there is a water filter, replace that too. 
  • Get things you’ll need before you need them. Some things you just don’t think about until you reach to grab it and realize you don’t have one! Things like fire extinguishers and plungers are definitely items you will want handy when it’s time. This is also a great time to replenish your first aid kit while you’re at it. 
  • Relax and meet your new neighbors! 

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 


DC Fray League Registration

Fray social sports leagues are played with a focus on fun, recreation, and socializing. Since 2009, DC Fray social sports have been the BEST way to make new friends and stay active in and around the DMV!

Think: 50% Sport, 50% Social. Fray makes it easy for you to get into the game as an individual, small group or full team across 100+ leagues over 11 sports. 

Registration for our fall social sports leagues closes in just a week! Register by Tuesday, September 17 to get in on the action this season.  

Play traditional sports like volleyball and flag football, and embrace your inner kid with leagues like kickball or skeeball, or try your hand at the nation’s fastest growing sport: pickleball! We’re also pioneering a brand new form of play with our GLOW leagues. Grab some glow sticks and try your hand at bocce, cornhole, kickball and more — in the dark! 

If you haven’t had the chance to experience what a Fray league is all about, we’re hooking up ALXnow readers with $10 off your first league registration with promo code ALXFL24! 

Here are some leagues located in and around the Alexandria area: 

Check out our full list of open fall leagues, or subscribe to our newsletter to get notified when winter 2025 registration is announced!  

Have questions? Want help to get a team together? We got you — email us at [email protected]! 

Want to save even more? 

Get an additional 25% of leagues, plus deals and giveaways to partner events, VIP treatment including open bars at select Fray events and more by becoming a FrayLife+ Member during league checkout! 


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.

Fabulous 2-bedroom, 2-bath semi-detached home in the heart of Del Ray! This spacious and light-filled home has been thoughtfully renovated and maintained (new electrical panel and HVAC in 2021) and is totally move-in ready.

Enter through a charming white picket fence into a freshly landscaped front yard. Inside, the home features freshly painted walls and gleaming hardwood floors throughout the main and upper levels. The large living room flows into the kitchen, complete with a dining area, beautiful island, white cabinetry, and new stainless-steel appliances complemented by glossy white subway tiles. Step out from the kitchen into the expansive backyard, perfect for enjoying crisp fall days while working from home.

The deck has been freshly painted, and a serene pond adds tranquility. Head upstairs to two bedrooms and a full bathroom. The primary bedroom features two closets and can easily accommodate a king-sized bed. The second bedroom is very spacious and could also be used for a home office. A great-sized attic with new insulation provides for ample storage. The fully renovated (summer 2024) lower-level features luxury vinyl plank flooring and a sleek full bathroom with penny tile floors, a wood vanity with black plumbing fixtures, and a spacious shower with beautiful subway tile. The lower level is an ideal recreation room, office, or guest suite and offers easy access to the backyard through a rear entrance.

Ideally located less than one block from “The Avenue,” this home is close to Del Ray’s shops, restaurants, and community events, with easy access to National Landing, the VT Innovation Campus, Metro stops, Reagan National Airport, Old Town, and more.

Welcome home!

Open House: Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8 from 1-3 p.m.

208 E Bellefonte Avenue, Alexandria 22301 — $850,000

208 E Bellefonte Avenue

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].

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. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: How was the real estate market in Alexandria for August 2024?

Answer: Typically, the end of the summer is quiet for the real estate market. This week, we look at market activity for August 2024 compared with August 2023 for the City of Alexandria and South Alexandria (Fairfax County portions of Alexandria). The charts below show available month-end inventory, new listing activity by price range, contract activity by price range, contract activity by property type (condos, attached homes, and detached homes), and the average days on the market.

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

(more…)


This week’s Q&A column is written by Darlene Duffett of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact Darlene at 703-969-9015 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: What do I need to do if I’d like to sell my home in a year?

Answer: I was walking in Old Town last week when I bumped into a friend that said, “I’m so glad I saw you. We plan to sell and retire to Florida in a year and want to have you over to tell us what we need to do to prepare.” Hence this article!

Preparing to Sell Your Home in a Year

Selling a home is a significant financial and emotional undertaking, and getting the best possible price requires careful preparation. If you’re planning to sell your home in a year, now is the perfect time to start. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure your home is in top condition, attract potential buyers, and streamline the selling process. Here are a few things you could start doing now if you plan to sell your home in a year.

Consult with a Real Estate Agent — Of course, this is going to be my first piece of advice. It’s never too early to consult with a real estate agent, even if you don’t plan to sell for another year. An experienced agent can provide valuable insights into the local market, recommend improvements to increase your home’s value, and help you create a timeline for your sale. They can also guide you through the entire process, from listing your home to closing the deal.

(more…)


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.

Very rare 2-story Penthouse in Portner house! Over 1600 square feet of space plus 350+ square feet of balcony space (see floor plans!). Built in 1999 on the site of the historic Joseph Portner Brewing Company, this boutique building offers the ideal mix of modern luxury living and all the convenience and charm of historic Old Town Alexandria.

This condo is full of natural light featuring a floor plan with soaring ceilings and fabulous windows. With new paint, updated lighting, new carpet and more, you can move in and feel right at home. Two private balconies make this a very special home — a smaller one located off the living and a very large balcony (with a hose bib to water your plants) on the upper level. The main level boasts a spacious kitchen, large dining area and a living room featuring a gas fireplace with built-ins.

The primary suite can easily accommodate a king-sized bed and has two closets and a great en-suite bath. The private bathroom boasts a large bathtub, a separate shower and a double vanity. A second bedroom and hall bath plus storage closets are also located on the main floor. Head upstairs and find a lofted family room (with access to the upper balcony) that overlooks the living room below. A third bedroom, half bath and laundry area are also located here. The upper level of this unit can be accessed from the fourth floor of the building or by using the stairs inside — a unique feature that allows for privacy.

Park your cars in two assigned garage spaces (PH 35 and 36) and walk to all that Old Town has to offer. Directly across the street from Trader Joe’s and close to a so many restaurants and shops, you will love Old Town living! Blocks to the waterfront/Mount Vernon Trail, 8 blocks to Metro, quick D.C. access, and a short ride to Reagan National Airport — this home is a commuter’s dream.

Welcome Home!

621 N Saint Asaph Street #308, Alexandria 22314 — $1,200,000

621 N Saint Asaph Street #308

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].

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


View More Stories