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®.
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 426 E Bellefonte Avenue, a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom brick rowhome in the heart of Del Ray. This home features a *brand new roof* and has been freshly painted throughout, offering a blend of classic charm and modern comfort.
Step inside to find warm and inviting hardwood floors, and a combined living and dining area. The kitchen boasts ceramic tile flooring and crisp white cabinetry, creating a bright and functional space. The fully finished lower level is a versatile area with nice ceiling height and charming white shiplap walls, ideal for use as a family room, home office, or entertainment space. Conveniently, the laundry/utility room, equipped with a washer, dryer, and sink, is just off this room. The HVAC system *is only 2 years old*.
Upstairs, the hardwood floors continue into the light-filled first bedroom. The second floor also includes a full bathroom and a second bedroom, both overlooking the fenced-in backyard. This outdoor space is perfect for relaxing or entertaining, complete with a wooden deck.
This home is ideally located just two blocks from Route One, within walking distance to Potomac Yard, the Potomac Yard Metro station, and is blocked to all the restaurants, shopping, and entertainment that The Avenue has to offer. Don’tmiss out on this wonderful opportunity to own a piece of Del Ray.
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: How do I rent out part of my home as an Airbnb?
Answer: Renting out part of your home on Airbnb or any of the other short-term rental websites is a great way to earn extra income, especially if you live in an area that is walkable, or close to a metro. If you own a home in Northern Virginia or D.C., and it’s close to public transportation, it’s very likely that your home will be popular with tourists.
Renting Your Home As An Airbnb
Last February, I decided to rent out part of our home in Old Town on Airbnb and I’ve learned a lot over the past six months. Our team has also helped buyers, who are specifically looking to buy a home with a space that could easily be rented out. It’s ideal when there is a separate entrance and the space is partitioned off from your own personal living space. However, there are some hosts that have guests share part of their own living space.
For the purposes of this article, I will just speak to what I know, which is renting out an entirely separate private space in your home.
Here are my top tips to help you get started.
1. Check Out the Local Regulations
Before listing your space, look up the local guidelines for short-term rentals. Most of the local jurisdictions do require that you apply for a permit. Some do have a grace period, but it’s best to set this up in advance, so that you don’t receive a violation notice or fine.
Explore our great city in a truly unforgettable way!
Join D.C.’s only car-free, social bike ride on Saturday, September 7 with our exclusive 15% OFF discount.
Just click the link or button below and enter promo code LOCALNEWS15 at checkout.
Perfect for first-time riders and avid cyclists alike, DC Bike Ride takes riders past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial for the perfect photo op.
More than just a bike ride, DC Bike Ride features live music and entertainment throughout the entire course to keep riders moving, several well-stocked rest stops to refuel with snacks and beverages, and a celebratory Finish Festival (open to the public) near the Capital Building with plenty of entertainment, beer, and delicious food to enjoy with family and friends.
Visit DC Bike Ride to learn more and browse our range of Ride Passes. Remember to use promo code LOCALNEWS15 to save 15% off a standard Ride Pass.
See you at the start line at the intersection of 12th Street and Constitution Ave., NW on September 7!
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: How will industry changes impact the homebuying process?
Answer: If it’s been some time since you bought or sold a home, there are recent changes to the selling process you need to be aware of. These are part of nationwide changes from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and how homes are promoted in Multiple Listing Services (MLS) — regional databases across the country that compile information about homes for sale and sold, as well as rental properties that use an agent during the leasing process.
Updates are designed to give consumers a better understanding of how they can negotiate fees associated with buying or selling a home and will take effect on August 14.
The homebuying process
It’s important to know that in our region Realtors® have been following these practices for decades, allowing for a clear and fair sales process that encourages both buyers and sellers to have their own representation in a sales transaction and negotiate their agent’s fee-for-service.
What has changed is that a broker’s fee is not only more clear to the buyer but can now be a potential negotiating item of the buyer-seller contract, rather than being listed in an MLS as a co-operating fee between brokerages.
Here are some things to be aware of:
Buyers
Your first step will be to sign a Buyer Agency agreement that will outline the ways your Realtor® will represent you in your search for a new home and how they will be paid for their professional services.
Buyers can negotiate many terms in their offer to purchase, including cash concessions from the seller to help cover different costs associated with buying a home. This now includes negotiating for the seller to pay a buyer broker’s fee.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced a temporary policy allowing VA buyers to compensate their real estate agents directly.
Not all sellers will consider financial concessions, so it’s important to set your home purchase budget to cover all costs associated with the sale, including your agent’s fee.
Your first step will be to sign a Listing Agreement that will outline the ways your Realtor® will represent you in the sale of your home, including how they will be paid for their professional services.
Your Realtor® will advise you on current market conditions and what will make your home attractive to the greatest number of potential buyers.
Sellers can indicate if they will consider concessions to a buyer, but they are not obligated to do so. Sellers should evaluate offers to purchase their home based on all specific terms and conditions, which may include a request for cash concessions to cover a buyer’s costs, including their broker’s fee.
A professional Realtor® is your best advocate and will work with you to develop the strategy that works best for your goals. Reach out to one of our agents to get started on your next move!
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
Can convenience, comfort, and culture all exist at the same address?
We believe so… and now it’s ready just for you.
Ravel and Royale is a duo of naturally inspired apartment communities, where a truly balanced lifestyle takes form. Grab a carefree lease on life and live nestled among lush landscaping with an incomparable front yard — Strathmore Square.
Explore our greenery, paths, and trails with proximity to 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, and floor-to-ceiling windows for light-filled rooms overlooking the park. Let our incredible management team take care of the details so you can enjoy your new home stress-free.
Whether you’re absorbed in a new book, enjoying a refreshing swim, or lounging in the sun under the cool shade of the umbrellas, find serenity and relaxation at your on-site pool. Nourish your mind, body, and spirit in your dry sauna, wellness rooms, two-story fitness center with separate yoga space, and our uniquely landscaped courtyards. Form deeper connections with loved ones as you host memorable dinner parties on your spacious private terrace or within our shared luxury dining spaces, presentation kitchens, and lavish lounges.
The green stop on the redline at the Grosvenor Strathmore Metro Station presents an opportunity for stress-free luxury living inspired by nature 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.
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.
RAVEL — Spacious, quiet, and thoughtfully composed
These curated residences offer a private oasis of sophisticated design details, seamlessly woven into a lively arts-inspired community.
With more to see and more to do, these artful residences are accompanied by extensive amenity spaces, opening the door to exploration and neighborly connection.
Two beautiful variations. One Incredible location. Leasing Now!
Address:3113 Russell Road Neighborhood: Mount Ida Type: 4 BR, 3 BA single-family detached Listed: $1,650,000
Noteworthy: Renovated and expanded 1929 Colonial
Period details meet chic style in this renovated and expanded 1929 Colonial. Made for entertaining! Del Ray/Mt. Ida/Beverly Hills North area.
Abundant curb appeal. Front picket fence and lush cottage garden charm. Mature magnolia, crepe myrtles, lilacs and fig frame wisteria-draped pergola, inviting porch swing, and welcoming covered entry. Elegant foyer, formal living room with wood burning fireplace, office, mudroom and stylish 3/4 bath powder room on entry level lead to side patio.
Expanded open plan 2nd level. Designer chef’s kitchen (featured in several design publications) showcases Wolf oven, SubZero fridge, large marble countered island, wine fridge, coffee station, and banquet seating in eat-in kitchen. Kitchen flows into open plan family room with cozy gas fireplace, additional sunlit sitting area, and formal dining area with live-edge wood bar.
Primary bedroom overlooks rear garden and features vaulted ceilings and newly renovated en suite bath and two owner’s closets. Three additional bedrooms, 2nd full bath, and laundry also on upper levels. Basement level features screening room and expansive basement storage.
Rear garden showcases gorgeous artisanal crafted hand-cut stone patio and terraced retaining walls with lush landscaping, and custom storage shed/art studio installed by current owners complementing existing mature tall oaks. Tons of updates just minutes from Reagan Airport, three metro stations, Del Ray and Mount Vernon Avenue, Old Town, the Pentagon, and D.C.
DC Bike Ride is the district’s only car-free, social bike ride, bringing bicyclists from near and far together to celebrate our great city in a truly unforgettable way!
The 20-mile, car-free course is purposefully designed to be approachable for first-time riders and avid cyclists alike while taking riders past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial for the perfect photo op.
More than just a bike ride, DC Bike Ride features live music and entertainment throughout the entire course to keep riders moving, several well-stocked rest stops to refuel with snacks and beverages, and a celebratory Finish Festival (open to the public) near the Capital Building with plenty of entertainment, beer, and delicious food to enjoy with family and friends.
DC Bike Ride takes place on Saturday, September 7 at 8 a.m. EST at the intersection of 12th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW.
You can join DC Bike Ride by visiting www.dcbikeride.com and choosing from a variety of Ride Passes that best suit your needs.
Use promo code LOCALNEWS15 to save 15% off a standard Ride Pass.
This week’s Q&A column is written byRebecca 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: What should I be thinking about when buying a home?
Answer: I have had the wonderful opportunity to buy and sell 12 personal properties in the past 30 years. I bought my first house on my own early in my career. Since then, my husband and I have bought 11 more, including 3 houses we flipped and one vacation property. Here are the key lessons I’ve learned as a buyer and a buyer’s agent.
1. Establish your must-haves. Write down all the things you want in a property. Location, commute, schools, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms. What kind of outside space are you looking for? Quiet with lots of privacy, or in a community with amenities? Once you’ve determined these, then prioritize your list. It’s highly unlikely you will get all, so it’s really important to know what can and cannot be sacrificed.
2. Be patient. It can take a while to find the right house. Attend open houses, go on showings, use an agent, talk to your co-purchaser about things you like and don’t. If you are fortunate enough to have an experienced agent, they may have some good insights about the homes, and even see beyond what you might be thinking. They will likely have recommended contractors and can help fix some simple issues.
In this market, you may also lose out in a competition with multiple offers. This can be devastating, and it can happen repeatedly. But please have faith. Truly, there is always another house, and in my experience, it’s ultimately the one the buyer was meant to have.
3. Be honest with yourself and others. Don’t try to make your partner, your mother, father, friend or agent happy. The worst thing anyone wants to hear after you moved in is, “I wish I had spoken up.” One common scenario is parents helping their children buy. It’s can be difficult to speak up to your parents if they are helping you financially. Having a Realtor can be really helpful in this situation. They can be a mediator who can diplomatically say the things that need to be said.
4. Be realistic. This may be one of the hardest ones. If you have 5 kids, don’t pretend you can make the 3-bedroom house work, because you love how it looks! Truly imagine yourself living in the property. Does is work your needs? Imagine cooking in the kitchen, letting the dog out. Where can everyone work if needed? Can you entertain? Does it need too much updating? What’s the condition of the windows, roof and chimneys? Fresh paint and great staging can make you look past the bones — don’t let it.
5. Be ready. Call a lender, find an agent. Both can save so much time and money. Ask friends for referrals. Go to open houses and find an agent who understands the area you want to buy in and with whom you feel you have good chemistry. Most agents have excellent lenders they can refer.
A lender can make or break a transaction. Big banks are typically open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During a real estate transaction, they need to be available almost 24/7, just like your agent. Things move fast, deals get competitive, timing can be everything.
6. Be money wise. No one enjoys being “house poor.” I’ve experienced it all. It’s a lot more fun to enjoy your life without the undue pressure of a too-large mortgage. Be honest with yourself about your lifestyle and work out a realistic budget. Don’t count on a raise. Buy what you can afford now, and breathe easy if your circumstances improve.
7. Have a vision! If the home is not aesthetically ideal for you, this is still an opportunity. If you can’t see it, find a friend or agent who can see beyond floral wallpaper. Many buyers don’t want to do the work, and you can find some great deals in less visually appealing homes.
Carpets, faucets, lighting, mirrors, paint can make a huge difference. Make the house of your dreams over time if you can’t find one you love. Already “improved”? Make sure the work is done well. Renovations can sometimes be very cosmetic. Do NOT forego a home inspection!
8. Research the location. I don’t just mean the street address. What do the neighbors’ yards look like? Hang out for a while during rush hour, when school gets out, weekends. Talk to neighbors if you can. Is there an HOA? Review the documents! Want to park an RV in the driveway? Make sure you can. Have a passion for purple and want to paint the front door? Make sure you can. Is it under a flight path, near a train station? Is the area changing? Are there plans for community changes? Do your homework. Google, make calls, check crime rates, flood maps and permit records. Your perfect home may have other issues besides its structure.
9. Trust your gut. I asked a recent client the best advice she got from someone before she bought. Her answer: “If it doesn’t feel right, you don’t love it, and can’t picture yourself living there every day, it’s not the right house.” Resist the urge to “make it work.” It likely never will. There will be a property out there that works better. It can be very expensive making the wrong decision. Kind of like thinking a spouse will change after you’re married! Be patient and find the right one.
10. Finally, relax. After you’ve found your house, ratified the contract, gone to settlement, and moved in, sit back and enjoy your new home. It all doesn’t need to be perfect right away. Live in it before making big purchases. See how you end up using the spaces. Don’t rush paint colors. Take your time and settle in.
Buying a house is a big decision, whether it’s your first time or your tenth. I’ve learned many lessons personally and professionally, buying houses over 30 years. I’ve been a victim, a champion, ignorant and innocent, smart and savvy — and downright lucky.
I wish you much success in your home purchasing journey, and hopefully with good preparation, a good agent, and a little luck, you will find your dream home. Happy hunting!
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 websiteRebeccaMcCullough.com.
Rebecca McCullough
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
Have you noticed your child wanting to interact with others in public?
Does it seem as if your child’s curiosity is growing every day? Is “Me do” becoming a regular phrase in your child’s vocabulary? Has your child begun to show an interest in being social and independent?
At Children’s House Montessori School (CHMS), children develop and practice social skills with classmates and Montessori Guides. CHMS students share stories at circle time, make music together, and collaborate on Montessori lessons they can proudly complete.
Children organically engage with fellow classmates and Montessori Guides during individual and small group lessons throughout the “Montessori Work Cycle”. This peaceful classroom routine fosters a safe and encouraging environment where friendships blossom.
Not only do Montessori classrooms encourage social interaction, they also create opportunities to act independently. CHMS students have freedom within limits to follow their interests and learn at their own pace. Our learning environments are specially created to allow children to easily select and practice exciting Montessori lessons. At CHMS, children experience the value and joy of being a more responsible and self-sufficient community member.
CHMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years.
Discover the vibrant CHMS community at the newly renovated Del Ray campus!
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 submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.
Question: How was the real estate market in Alexandria for the first half of 2024?
Answer: This week we look at market activity for the first half of 2024 compared with first half of 2023 for the City of Alexandria and South Alexandria (Fairfax County portions of Alexandria).
The charts below show average available monthly 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. Higher interest rates and low inventory continue to be primary factors influencing our local 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.
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®.
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.
Fabulously updated Del Ray charmer! This 2 bed/2 full bath townhome in Del Ray truly has it all. From the charming front porch to the expanded kitchen, this home can’t be beat.
Walk up the path to the front porch — perfect for afternoon lemonade or working from home on cooler days. Enter into the living room — the open floor plan flows easily into the dining area and kitchen — great for entertaining or everyday living. The kitchen has been updated with beautiful countertops and crisp, shaker-style cabinetry. There is plenty of storage and counter space to make a gourmet meal or bake to your heart’s content. a door from the kitchen leads to the rear yard — a great space for a grill!
Head upstairs to two bedrooms and a shared, fully-renovated bath. The primary bedroom has nice closet space and room for a large bed plus dressers. The second bedroom could double as an office. Two mini-split units provide for additional air conditioning to help you stay cool on the hottest summer days. The lower level has a recreation room and full, renovated bathroom. The utility room has closet space for storage and laundry, plus a convenient exit to the rear of the home. The basement level was previously used as an Air B&B and could easily be used as a recreation room, a guest room or home office space.
Enjoy walking to Metro, shops, restaurants and more and easily commute into D.C. via the GW Parkway or I-395. You will love living in Del Ray! Welcome Home!
Open House: Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14 from 1-3 p.m.
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
