Address: 1800 Mount Vernon Avenue #202
Neighborhood: Del Ray
Type: 1 BR, 1 BA condo — 630 sq. ft.
Listed: $440,000

Noteworthy: Gorgeous 1 BR/1 BA with stainless steel appliances and huge balcony

Rarely on the market and move-in ready now! Del Ray Place condominium homes are a commuter’s dream or work from home paradise just .08 miles from Braddock metro! Pet friendly building. Built in 2019, this home has had only one owner who lovingly cared for the space.

It is a modern, sun filled, bright and spacious 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo located “on the Avenue” in Del Ray! This home has one deeded underground parking space and a huge private balcony that expands your living experience outside — plus, three large, beautiful outdoor common spaces for residents to relax in or entertain guests! Unit’s private balcony enjoys plenty of natural sunlight — perfect for flower and vegetable gardening — very spacious with plenty of room for entertaining guests. Modern, bright kitchen and bathroom.

Kitchen features up-to-date stainless steel appliances and gas cooking, a pantry, custom counters and cabinets with lots of storage. Bathroom features a spacious walk-in modern tiled shower and upgraded tile flooring. Large energy efficient windows fill the space with light and keep utility costs down.

Recent unit improvements include updated energy-efficient color tunable LED recessed lights in kitchen and living area, and a fresh coat of paint. This home’s deeded underground parking space, is close to the garage elevator!

Homeowners in this building enjoy a very spacious common top floor roof deck featuring views of Old Town and beautiful sunsets, a large backyard patio with a dog run, and barbecue area is available for entertaining.

Listed by:
Marlene Hall — eXp Realty LLC
[email protected]
(703) 963-4505

This week’s Q&A column, sponsored and written by McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria, is a bit of a departure from our usual format. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact us at 703-549-9292. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: With interest rates fluctuating how can I confidently search for my next home?

Answer: There are myriad programs and creative financing options that can pave the way to owning a home if you know who to ask and prepare ahead.

As we prepare for the 2024 spring market, Realtors and their clients are having in-depth discussions about what they can afford and how to secure their financing. But many wannabe buyers are dissuaded from believing homeownership is in the cards because they don’t have a big down payment, need to sell an existing home first, or are retired, among other hurdles. But with guidance from a savvy lender, the doors to homeownership start to open up.

Brian Bonnet and Eric Boutcher of Atlantic Coast Mortgage recently held classes for McEnearney agents to review financing programs and products for buyers eager to purchase but who need a little extra help putting their financing together. They reviewed common buyer challenges and the solutions available through ACM’s lending programs and those offered by housing agencies like Virginia Housing, Maryland’s Community Development Agency, and DC’s Open Doors.

Scenario 1: First-time purchaser with little available cash

Agents shared that many buyers are waiting on the sidelines because of concerns of not having a 20% down payment. In reality, there are many lower down payment options, even for conventional loans.

For Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, who provide guidelines for the vast majority of loans originated nationwide, the minimum down payment is only 3% for first-time homebuyers (which applies even if you’ve owned a home before but not in the last three years) and for higher-priced loans of $766,550-$1,149,825 the minimum down payment is only 5%. There are even lower down payment programs, such as those provided by VH, which are income-dependent programs with 0-3% down payments. VHDA provides both conventional first mortgages up to 97% and grants that can be used toward down payments.

The Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) is a key resource for individuals seeking to achieve homeownership in Virginia. Recently, VHDA introduced groundbreaking changes aimed at expanding accessibility to their programs, notably eliminating the first-time homebuyer requirement which opens opportunities for a broader range of buyers. Additionally, VHDA offers a 2% grant program, providing financial assistance towards down payments and closing costs, easing the financial burden of purchasing a home. Another noteworthy initiative is the VHDA Plus program, which offers 100% financing, and some buyers may even qualify for an additional 1.5% in funds to be applied toward closing costs. Through the recent guideline changes, VHDA is enhancing affordability and making homeownership dreams more achievable for Virginians.

In one example Bonnet shared, a qualified buyer using the Virginia Housing (VH) Plus program could purchase a $300,000 condo with a first mortgage of $291,000 and a second mortgage of $13,500 for total financing of $304,500. That means the buyer can finance $4,500 of the total closing costs, leaving them with a cash requirement of roughly $8,200.

In another example, for a $500,000 townhouse with a first mortgage of $485,000 and a second mortgage of $22,500, the borrower’s cash needed is approximately $7,900. In both scenarios, buyers do need cash funds, but as seen in these examples, the amount required was less than $10,000, much lower than many buyers expect they’ll need.

Atlantic Coast Mortgage offers a grant program for eligible buyers to help with down payment and closing cost assistance. Boutcher explained that eligible first-time home buyers can receive up to a $12,500 grant and community partners — which includes firefighters, first responders, doctors, nurses, law enforcement, educators, and more — may be eligible for a grant of up to $15,000. This program has income limits based on household size but is eligible throughout the DMV and beyond.

Scenario 2: Home to sell and can’t compete with a Home Sale Contingency

In a competitive market, a home sale contingency is generally a non-starter for sellers who want “clean” contracts with few or zero contingencies, but agents know that potential seller-buyers want to avoid selling their existing home before they have their next home to move to. Stalemate, right?

Not always, says Bonnet. “I have active customers who thought they couldn’t purchase before first selling because they needed the cash equity from their existing home, and they cannot qualify for the new traditional loan without getting rid of the existing home loan,” he shared as he explained how they worked out a plan using a bridge loan.

There are two types of bridge loans that Atlantic Coast Mortgage offers: a cash-out bridge loan and a purchase bridge loan. In the first, owners can refinance their current home to allow for a line of credit that can be used for a down payment or closing costs on a new home and must be repaid within three months.

“We have qualified them for a bridge loan on their existing home without consideration of their debt service on the next home,” Bonnet explained. With that bridge loan, they convert equity to cash to be used as a down payment on the next $1.1M home.”

Bonnet continued, “Because they don’t qualify for a traditional loan on the next home while carrying the debt on the existing home, we have also qualified them for a bridge loan on the new home without consideration of the debt on the existing home. With this unique Atlantic Coast Mortgage underwriting guideline, the seller-buyers are now able to write a contract that is not contingent on the sale of their existing home, and, if they choose, they can waive financing and appraisal contingencies and be in the hunt as competitive prospective homebuyers.”

Read 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 are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.

Just listed by our McEnearney Associates, Inc esteemed colleagues, Mason Bavin and Susan Anthony!

Their listing boasts the Old Town Greens is a sought-after community for many reasons! With a neighborhood feel, one is within a short walk to all the amenities offered including the community pool, playground, tennis courts and the picnic area with grills. With easy access to the recently opened Potomac Yard metro, George Washington Parkway, US Route One, the Beltway, Potomac Yard Center, Reagan National Airport, the Pentagon, Amazon HQ2 and the Virginia Tech campus, it is easy to understand why this development at North Old Town is so popular to commuters.

Finally, personal enjoyment and entertaining are within minutes to the Heart of Old Town, Mount Vernon bike, walking and jogging trail, the Potomac River, and the shops on Slaters Lane: Rustico, Buzz, Slater’s Market and more! 703 Norfolk Lane is a gem! Situated on a quiet street in the center of the development, it has been carefully updated and beautifully maintained by the original owners. One enters the main level to the large entrance foyer from the brick sidewalk flanked by beautiful mature plantings at the front of the home or from the two-car garage at the rear. This level offers a range of possibilities!

With floor-to-ceiling south-facing windows, the light-filled room on the main level, along with a full bath, offers the perfect spot for a bedroom, in-law or nanny suite, exercise room or office. The full-size washer and dryer are located on this level. Plenty of storage plus the hot water heater are conveniently located in the garage. The upper-level features separate dining and living room areas. Both rooms have chair rail, molding and 10’ ceilings and the living room features built-in bookcases with storage cabinetry. The open kitchen is beautifully upgraded and includes a desk for the busy homeowner! Along with the comforts of a sitting area with gas fireplace and desk, there is a gas cooktop and many of the stainless-steel appliances have been replaced, the upgraded cherry cabinetry with newer hardware is forty-two inches and includes shelving for cookie sheets.

The floors are of non-breakable, twelve-inch Italian tile. The counters are of upgraded granite with a custom rounded edge. From the kitchen, enjoy the outside from the spacious balcony! The owners installed hardwood flooring on the stairs to the two upper levels. The next level features an owners’ suite with an oversized bath which includes a soaking tub, separate shower, and dual sinks as well as a large walk-in closet with closet organizers. A third generous-sized bedroom and bath are on this level as well. Finally, the owner’s suite leads to a large loft. The stairs and loft are newly carpeted. As on the main level, many opportunities abound for this private extra living space!

All in all, this exceptional property will delight the new owner for years to come!

Open this weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 1-3 p.m.

703 Norfolk Lane, Alexandria, VA 22314 — $929,900

Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].

• 1 W Maple Street, #101, Alexandria 22301 — $475.000
• 19 Cedar Street, Alexandria 22301 — $1,735,000
• 22 Bakers Walk #105, Alexandria 22314 — $1,299,900
• 203 Martin Lane, Alexandria 22304 — $695,000

Happy House Hunting!

In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!

Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.

McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria

This week’s Q&A column is written by David Howell, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant market news, contact David at 703-855-5089 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: How did the Alexandria real estate market start the new year?

Answer: This week we look at market activity for January 2024 compared with January 2023 for the City of Alexandria and South Alexandria (Fairfax County portions of Alexandria). The charts below show available inventory at the end of the month, contract activity by price range, contract activity by property type (condos, attached homes, and detached homes), and the average days on the market. We have often discussed the continuing pressures of low inventory on our local market, and January shows us how strong those pressures continue to be.

If you are interested in more information, every month on our website we profile the most important market indicators for Northern Virginia — contract activity, interest rates, inventory, affordability, and the direction of the market — in an easy to read and digest summary followed by supporting charts and data.

City of Alexandria

Fully Available Listings by Price Range

• The month-end inventory for the City of Alexandria decreased 41.4% for January 2024 compared to January 2023. The number of homes coming on the market decreased 6.0% — which was 10 fewer homes coming on the market.
• Inventory reflects contract activity and new listings from previous months as well as the current month.

New Contract Activity by Price Range

• Overall contract activity in the City of Alexandria decreased 12.8% for January 2024 compared to January 2023.
• Contract activity was higher for homes priced $750,000-$999,999.

Read 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 are a real estate group based out of Alexandria, Virginia. I, along with my rock-star team members, Sue Kovalsky, Micki MacNaughton, Adrianna Vallario and Nancy Lacey, have more than 40 years of experience in real estate and sold over $145 million in 2023.

Welcome to this exquisite end townhome nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, where timeless charm meets modern luxury. Meticulously renovated and restored, this all-brick residence boasts a stunning interior showcasing impeccable craftsmanship and tasteful upgrades throughout.

Park in the garage and head to a cozy first floor den/office with fireplace — ideal for game day or working from home! Head upstairs and find a generously-sized living room (with a second fireplace), kitchen, balcony and half bath. The chef’s kitchen features a porcelain slate floor, top-of-the-line LG stainless steel appliances, upgraded granite countertops, and a thoughtfully redesigned island, perfect for both cooking and entertaining.

Up one more level, luxury abounds in the spacious primary bed with spa-like ensuite bath — beautifully appointed with Carrera marble, large shower and soaking tub making spa day every day. Storage is a breeze with a custom Elfa closet system in the closet. A second bedroom and full bath round out this level. On the upper level is a fabulous third bedroom with full bath that could double as a playroom, family room or guest space.

Residents of Old Town Village have exclusive access to a host of modern amenities, including a saltwater pool, exercise room, hot tub, party room, library and tot lot, all within a partially gated community. Situated just three blocks from the vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment options of King Street, you’ll enjoy the quintessential Old Town lifestyle. Stroll to Whole Foods, the picturesque Potomac River and the King Street Metro.

Polished, pristine and move-in ready, this exceptional townhome offers a rare opportunity to experience the best of Old Town living!

306 S Fayette Street,  Alexandria 22314 — $5,400/month

Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].

• 207 Duncan Avenu, Alexandria 22301 — $1,580,000
• 217 Tennessee Avenue, Alexandria 22305 — $739,900
• 505 N Quaker Lane N, Alexandria 22304 — $2,795,000
• 4691 Longstreet Lane #101, Alexandria 22311 — $475,000

Happy House Hunting!

In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!

Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.

McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria

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: Why should I use a Realtor?

Answer: Whether you are buying or selling, this is absolutely a question that is on many people’s minds — even if they don’t want to actually ask a Realtor. Of course, it is possible to buy or sell a home without the assistance of an agent. However, in my experience, it is a better choice, financially and for less stress, to use a Realtor — regardless of which side of the transaction you are on.

Here are some of the many resources that a real estate agent has at their disposal that will benefit you.

The Multiple Listing System (MLS)

Not only does the MLS show currently active and coming soon listings, but there is an abundance of other information including recently sold properties, how long it took them to sell, whether the seller paid any closing costs, and even off-market sales that you may not be aware of. Your Realtor can do a detailed Market Analysis to help you make informed decisions, which is crucial information to have when making an offer to buy a property and for pricing a home to sell.

Knowledge of the Market

Realtors do real estate all day long, every day! They have a deep understanding of the local market trends, various neighborhoods, and even new construction opportunities. They know when the market is more weighted towards the seller or the buyer, and how to price a home or make an offer accordingly. Pricing and offer strategy strongly depend on the current market. A difference of just $5k could make a huge difference in the long run (i.e. overpricing a home for sale or lowballing an offer and losing the home that you really want).

Knowledge of People in the Market

Realtors oftentimes have a professional rapport with the other agent. Sometimes they have worked together before. They know what questions to ask and not to ask (or how to ask diplomatically), to make it much more likely that you will be successful in your real estate goals. In addition, Realtors have an extensive network of other important professionals that they know to provide quality services, such as lenders, inspectors, and lawyers, who are often needed during the buying or selling process. They have access to reputable contractors, and they can get things done quickly.

Negotiation Skills

Agents are skilled, trained negotiators and can help you get the most out of a deal, regardless of the side you are on. They know how to get buyers to submit their best offers on your home sale, often generating multiple offers well above the list price. They know how to get more information from a listing agent on their buyer’s behalf, making it more likely you get that home you are bidding on. We recently negotiated an extra parking spot for one of our buyers on a new construction condo deal and our buyer is still bragging that his Realtor got more extras than any other buyer in the building! Having a trained negotiator does pay off!

Contracts and Paperwork Expertise

There is a lot of both! Your Realtor not only has access to the paperwork but knows what to look for to protect your interests. Sometimes, an offer on your home sale might look great but may contain some stipulations or red flags that an untrained eye doesn’t know to look for. Realtors handle all of the paperwork involved, making sure everything is filled out correctly and on time. And they provide legal protection by ensuring your contracts and agreements meet local requirements. Your Realtor will guide you through the process from start to finish and make sure everything is handled correctly. Read 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 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.

This listing from our McEnearney Colleagues, The BBZ Group, is a must see! Their listing boasts:

Opportunity Knocks! 3 BR + DEN | 3.5 BA | 2 Car Garage | Prime Riverfront Location

Look no further than this spacious and light-filled townhouse in Old Town’s premier waterfront community. The entry level features a marble floored foyer, a cozy study/TV room, coat closet, powder room and garage access. The main living level is well appointed with handsome built-in cabinets and bookcases and a gas fireplace. The dining area has a dash of light-filled glamour with its sleek chandelier and functional glass cabinets.

The roomy kitchen is recently updated with glass tile backsplash and new countertops on the more than ample workspace. It is well equipped with a downdraft cooktop, wall oven, built-in microwave, trash compactor and wine cooler. There is an inviting breakfast area with easy access to the balcony and glimpses of the river.

The third floor is home to the oversized primary suite which is sure to check all the boxes. Lofty ceilings, a bay window sitting area, a fully outfitted custom walk-in closet, oversized linen storage and a private en-suite bath with double-sink vanity, soaking tub and separate shower invite you to start and end your day in comfort. Bedroom #2 with its own private bath and a handy laundry station are also on this level. The top floor is home to spacious Bedroom #3, again with an en-suite bath. The cathedral ceiling, allows for extra storage as well as custom built-ins.

A bonus room, currently the home office, offers an unexpected but appreciated hideaway for work or hobbies. Numerous extras include remote controlled shades throughout, an abundance of accessible storage, automatic water cut-off system and newly installed, premium carpet on the stairs and bedroom levels. Open this weekend Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 p.m.

3 Franklin 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].

• 1211 Queen Street, Alexandria 22314 — $810,000
• 908 Allison Street, Alexandria 22302 — $1,050,000
• 108 N Payne Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,850,000
• 1210 N Chambliss Street, Alexandria 22312 — $849,900

Happy House Hunting!

In our highly competitive Alexandria market, the Jen Walker Team has the insider knowledge to connect you with homes that are not even public yet. With more than 40 years of experience, the Jen Walker Team has the expertise to answer questions, calm fears, and streamline your transaction. Want to see other homes not featured in this article? Contact our team today!

Please note: While The Jen Walker Team provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.

McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 #WeAreAlexandria

This week’s Q&A column, sponsored and written by McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria, is a bit of a departure from our usual format. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact us at 703-549-9292. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: What smart tech are buyers looking for in their next home?

Answer: The 2024 spring housing market has already taken off, with declining interest rates bringing many homebuyers off the sidelines and into the purchasing game. Sellers are preparing their homes for eager buyers and are learning what features will attract the most offers at the highest price. And while fresh paint and gleaming floors will always be pleasing to see in a home, there’s one thing that savvy buyers are asking for more than anything else: convenient, integrated, and affordable Smart Tech throughout the home.

We polled our McEnearney colleagues to find out what the easiest and most popular features are that are mentioned by their clients to make life easier, energy efficient, and, in some cases, fun!

Tom Hallex, a key member of McEnearney’s Digital Resources team, has incorporated many of the most common and inexpensive gadgets in his own home, including a Nest doorbell and door lock which allows for remote access to view visitors to your property and access into your home; a myQ garage-door opener that allows for individualized PIN code access and visual access to confirm activity around the garage entry; smart-outlets like Enbrighten that work with a home’s wi-fi for remote on/off control and customizable adjustments with voice or app commands; and even a wi-fi linked microwave for under $200!

Realtor Sean McEnearney is also a fan of smart-USBs after working with a tech-savvy seller client. “I was selling a townhome for a client a few years ago and there was a lot of work that needed to be done before we put it on the market, especially in the kitchen and master bath,” Sean recounts. “He replaced a few outlets and had the electrician install outlets that included USB receptacles as well as the typical electric outlets. He had them installed in the master bedroom and bath as well. It was a small thing, but a thoughtful add-on that impressed me.”

Rookie Realtor Rachel O has been learning what’s on the Tech Must-Have list for buyers, including her own husband who wanted at minimum a smart thermostat and the aforementioned USB plugs incorporated into the outlets. But it’s understanding what younger buyers, who have grown up with accessibility at their fingertips, want in a home that keeps her alert to tech trends and what makes for a quick sale.

“I’ve seen a lot of new construction homes that have (common tech gadgets) included and my newlywed first-time homebuyers in their early 30s do seem to have an expectation and preference for these inclusions. I believe if an older home had them, they would likely be more inclined to purchase,” O shared. “The best thing I’ve seen thus far is a smart oven that allows you to preheat your oven from your cell phone so that you can start it on your way home from work and then immediately pop in your food to be cooked.”

Moving up the chain to affordable luxury, Top Producer Realtor Susan Tull O’Reilly cited a recent sale that had a built-in wine cooler with select zones for different types of wines, even in a small space: colder on the bottom and less chilled on top. A quick search shows that there are intricate builds for the expert sommelier but even vino neophytes can find tech-enabled options that offer climate-centric options in a small package, ranging from the $200 range to up and above $4,000.

In a sign of must-haves to come, Realtor Christine Robinson is seeing more and more homeowners investing in tech like electric vehicle (EV) chargers — popular in both sales and rentals – that range in price from $300-700. Search recent home listing descriptions and you’re likely to see this feature spotlighted as a selling point and some sellers are willing to add them for on-the-fence buyers. She’s seen clients who both want and loathe solar panels but the trend toward sustainable construction means solar technology will continue to be a factor in home improvements.

One of the tech features mentioned most often by our agents were home generators, both portable generators that sell for an affordable $300 and up, and standby generators which are professionally installed and cost between $5,000-$7,000. Later this month we’ll look at tech features in high-end homes that are most popular with luxury buyers. Be ready to be dazzled! In the meantime, if you would like a tech-savvy agent to assist you with insight into what appeals to buyers and sellers in this busy market, reach out to a McEnearney Associate to get the right home ecosystem for your needs.

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

How are your resolutions going?

A quick Google search for “Top New Year’s Resolutions” returns searches on health, finances, travel and living sustainably.

If you’ve already used a cheat day, skipped the gym and are left staring at the self-help books you bought a couple weeks ago, you’re not alone. But maybe it’s not that you are bad at resolutions… maybe you just need to make a different resolution — one that not only includes that self-improvement we’re looking for, but also the reward of contributing to your community through service.

The volunteers with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue invite you to join them in serving your neighbors by becoming a first responder (EMT, firefighter) or administrative support member at one of 12 volunteer stations in Fairfax County.

Volunteers serve alongside career staff who work 24/7, 365 days, responding to 911 calls for fires, car accidents, health emergencies and more. Volunteers also help with stand-by opportunities such as 5Ks, high school sports contests and community special events; assist with prolonged responses due to size, scale, weather, etc.; and help educate families about fire safety in their home.

No previous experience is necessary — training and equipment is provided.

Volunteers should be ready to:

• Learn and train
• Dedicate their time to practicing and improving their skills
• Contributing to their local fire station, which are all incorporated 501(c)(3) organizations

There is a rush when responding to an incident with “lights and sirens” in your apparatus. There is the challenge of responding to difficult situations with skills you have learned and teammates you must work with. And there is the reward of helping someone on what may be their absolute worst day — because you are among the first to respond.

This year, please consider giving back to the community through service. And if helping others through emergency response sounds like an opportunity you’d like to learn more about, please watch our latest video, learn about our requirements and find a station near you at www.JoinFairfaxFire.org.

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.

This listing by our McEnearney Colleague Wendy Santantonio, is a must see! Her listing boasts just six blocks to King Street’s dining and shopping district and tucked away in a quiet, beautifully landscaped courtyard sits this classic three-level brick home. The 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath townhouse provides a seamless marriage of modern amenities while nestled amongst the charm of Old Town’s historic district.

This home boasts nearly 1,300 square feet of finished space, hardwood floors throughout, crown molding and one assigned covered garage parking space. The functional open living and dining area features built-in display and storage space, a wood-burning fireplace, and recessed lighting.

French doors offer a view of — and easy access to — the private fenced back courtyard, perfect for al fresco dining, grilling, relaxing, and entertaining. The updated kitchen features white cabinetry, granite counters, and a decorative backsplash. A discretely located powder room rounds out the main level. The second floor of the home features two of the home’s bedrooms, a recently renovated full bathroom with a tub/shower combination with large format subway tiles and a marble-topped vanity, and a linen closet. The stacked front-loading washer and dryer are also conveniently located on this level. The home’s top level features a large primary suite with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and an additional recently renovated full bath with a walk-in shower with a rain showerhead as well as a vessel sink.

Monthly condo dues for the Washington Square community include exterior maintenance (including the roof), water, trash and snow removal, common area landscaping, and common area maintenance, including the parking garage and elevator. *Washington Square is approved for VA loans.*

The home’s central Old Town location is a commuter’s dream: one mile to King Street Metro, one block away from a Metrobus stop (with direct routes into D.C.), and easy access to I-95/495, Route 1, and the GW Parkway. Whole Foods, Harris Teeter, Trader Joe’s, Balducci’s, coffee shops, bike and walking trails, and farmers’ markets are also located conveniently nearby.

630 S Columbus Street, Alexandria 22314 — $749,900

Click here for additional Just Listed properties in Alexandria and call The Jen Walker Team to schedule a home tour at 703-675-1566 or email [email protected].

• 215 Tennessee Avenue, Alexandria 22305 — $774,900
• 181 Reed Avenue #108, Alexandria 22305 — $550,000
• 1210 Queen Street #8, Alexandria 22314 — $715,000
• 1015 Duke Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,899,999
• 203 S Royal Street, Alexandria 22314 — $1,335,000

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