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Ask Corcoran McEnearney: Are for sale by owners still common?

By Karisue Wyson

This week’s column is sponsored and written by Karisue Wyson, Director of Education at Corcoran McEnearney, 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 Corcoran McEnearney via email for response in future columns.

Question: Are For Sale By Owners still common?

Answer: Go-it-alone sellers are learning the hard way that expert pricing, exposure, and negotiation are the difference between a quick win and a costly discount.

Every real estate cycle has its classic subplot: “Maybe I’ll sell it myself.” For Sale By Owner listings (FSBOs) tend to spike when headlines make selling look easy, and fade when the market reminds everyone that a home sale is not a lemonade stand.

Right now, FSBOs are fading fast. According to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), only 5% of sellers sold without an agent this year– an all-time low. Meanwhile, 91% of sellers used a real estate professional, also a record high.

FSBOs typically sell for less — and the gap is meaningful

NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers shows the median FSBO sale price was $360,000, compared with $425,000 for agent-assisted sales, about an 18% difference.

NAR also notes an important nuance: FSBO homes skew more toward rural areas and lower-priced property types, which can inflate headline comparisons. But when researchers compare similar homes sold with and without agents, FSBO sellers still tend to net less – often in the 5–6% range even after adjusting for property differences. In other words, even if we give FSBOs the benefit of the doubt, the data keeps landing in the same neighborhood. Selling solo is usually a discount strategy dressed up as a savings strategy.

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Listing of the Day: 16 Wharf Street

By ALXnow.com

Noteworthy: Sought-after location near the Potomac

Stately end-unit townhome embodying classic federal style architecture. Spanning 3,000 square feet across four levels, this residence offers an elegant blend of space and comfort. The home features three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, with the primary suite boasting vaulted ceilings for an airy ambiance. A marble fireplace serves as a sophisticated focal point in the living area, while abundant natural light floods the interiors, enhancing the home’s inviting atmosphere. Relax on the rear deck or brick patio and enjoy the view into the grass courtyard, the only one in Fords Landing. Located within steps of the scenic Potomac River, this property offers easy access to the vibrant King Street corridor, renowned for its history and diverse dining and shopping options. Enjoy leisurely strolls along nearby walking paths or relax in the private courtyard. This prime location combines urban convenience with serene living, making it an ideal choice for discerning buyers. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and location

Go to Listing of the Day: 16 Wharf Street Read more

Just Listed in Alexandria: November 21, 2025

By Sponsor

Just Listed highlights Alexandria properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by Corcoran McEnearney, the leader in Alexandria real estate since 1984.

During November and December, we are going to look at listing data every two weeks. According to BrightMLS, our regional multiple listing system, 131 homes have been listed for sale from November 7-20 in the City of Alexandria and the Alexandria area of Fairfax County.

Prices range from $164,500 for a 1-bedroom condo at Wapleton to $3,995,000 for a 6-bedroom home coming soon in Belle Rive. The breakdown by property type is as follows: 57 condos, 46 townhomes, and 28 detached homes. 22 of the listings already have ratified contracts, and 16 are in Coming Soon status.

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Let’s take a look at a couple of our active, newly listed properties from the past 2 weeks:

Although not brand-new listings, the following properties have open houses scheduled this weekend:

For more information, reach out to your favorite local Realtor. Happy House Hunting!

Note: Open house information may change. Please click on the website link to verify.

Corcoran McEnearney, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, corcoranmce.com. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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The Lodge: Free winter festival returns to National Landing on December 6

By National Landing Business Improvement District
The Lodge at National Landing

Step into The Lodge as Metropolitan Park in Arlington becomes a winter wonderland for guests of all ages and four-legged friends! National Landing’s free signature winter event brings together the cozy charm of the ski slopes with the magic of the holidays, right here in Arlington.

Free admission and easy to get to via the Pentagon City Metro, bike, bus or car.

🚠The Lodge highlights include:

🎁 Holiday Vendor Market: Shop for the best gifts and seasonal must-haves from local artisans at this covered holiday market.

🍫 Peppermint Mocha Latte Competition: Taste and vote for the best seasonal drink as local coffee shops compete for the top title. Featuring: Java Loco Good Company, Beauty Champagne and Sugar, Tatte, Daydrift, Surreal Commonwealth Joe, Colada Shop.

✨Stage Entertainment: Enjoy a festive lineup of live music and winter-themed performances. Stage schedule to be announced.

🎅Family Activities: Experience the winter wonderland with Holiday Train rides, photos with Santa, face painting, a wooden ornament decorating station, and more holiday craft fun.

🐶Dog Sweater Contest & Pet Fun: Bring your canine companion to enjoy a dog treat bar by District Dogs and pictures with Santa. Dress up your pet and participate in the Dog Holiday Sweater Contest from 5-5:30PM to win a coveted prize!

🍷Food & Drink: Purchase delicious food and beverages from local favorite Bar Colline, along with beer, wine, and non-alcoholic offerings from the Summit Bar.

🎤 The Lodge After Dark: As the sun sets, stick around for a lively hour of Holiday Karaoke Night in partnership with District Karaoke.

Visit nationallanding.org/thelodge for more information on programming and planning your visit to Metropolitan Park!

The Lodge is presented by The National Landing Business Improvement District (BID) with support from Amazon.

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Ask Corcoran McEnearney: How can I trust what an agent says about market value?

By Hope Peele

This week’s Q&A column is sponsored and written by Hope Peele of The Peele Group and Corcoran McEnearney, 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 Corcoran McEnearney via email for response in future columns.

Question: How can I trust what an agent says about market value?

Answer: When you’re getting ready to list your home, it’s common to interview a few real estate agents. Often, each one will have a different opinion about your home’s market value. So how do you know who to trust?

It’s important that the agent clearly explains how they arrived at their recommended price. That means walking you through comparable sales in your area, the condition of your home compared to others, and the market trends that influence value. Pricing is never a guess. It is a strategy based on data and experience.

While it’s true that some agents may throw out an attractive number just to win a listing, that approach usually backfires. If a home is overpriced, it lingers on the market and becomes stale. If it’s underpriced, the seller risks leaving money on the table. In either case, an agent who isn’t focused on accuracy ultimately hurts their own credibility and your outcome.

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Just Listed in Alexandria: November 7, 2025

By Sponsor

Just Listed highlights Alexandria properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by Corcoran McEnearney, the leader in Alexandria real estate since 1984.

After a little Halloween break last week, this week we are going to look at listing data from the past two weeks. According to BrightMLS, our regional multiple listing system, 196 homes have been listed for sale from October 24-November 6 in the City of Alexandria and the Alexandria area of Fairfax County.

Prices range from $169,900 for a 1-bedroom condo at Huntington Club to $4,999,900 for a 5-bedroom home in Yacht Haven Estates. The breakdown by property type is as follows: 79 condos, 54 townhomes, and 63 detached homes. 36 of the listings already have ratified contracts, and 24 are in Coming Soon status.

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Let’s take a look at some of our just-listed properties from the past week:

For more information, reach out to your favorite local Realtor. Happy House Hunting!

Note: Open house information may change. Please click on the website link to verify.

Corcoran McEnearney, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, corcoranmce.com. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Just Listed in Alexandria: October 24, 2025

By Sponsor

Just Listed highlights Alexandria properties that came on the market within the past week. This feature is sponsored by Corcoran McEnearney, the leader in Alexandria real estate since 1984.

According to BrightMLS, our regional multiple listing system, 108 homes have been listed for sale from October 17-23 in the City of Alexandria and the Alexandria area of Fairfax County.

Prices range from $179,900 for a 2-bedroom condo at Huntington Club to $2,950,000 for a 3-bedroom end townhome in Fords Landing. The breakdown by property type is as follows: 45 condos, 35 townhomes, and 28 detached homes. 10 of the listings already have ratified contracts, and 26 are in Coming Soon status.

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Let’s take a look at some of our just-listed properties from the past week:

The following properties are Coming Soon:

For more information, reach out to your favorite local Realtor. Happy House Hunting!

Note: Open house information may change. Please click on the website link to verify.

Corcoran McEnearney, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, corcoranmce.com. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Ask Corcoran McEnearney: We’ve been renting and thinking about buying — what should we consider in this decision?

By Darlene Duffett

Renting vs. Buying in the DC Metro: Which Makes Sense?

For many people living in or relocating to the Washington, DC metro area, the question isn’t whether to make a move — it’s whether to rent or buy. With rising rents, fluctuating interest rates, and a fast-paced housing market, it’s not an easy decision. As a real estate professional in the Washington, DC area, I see both sides every day — and the right choice often depends on timing, goals, and lifestyle.

The Current State of the Market

After several years of rapid change, the DC-area housing market has started to level out. Home prices remain strong, especially in close-in areas like Arlington, Alexandria, and the District, but the double-digit price gains of the pandemic era have cooled. Interest rates, while higher than their historic lows, have stabilized — giving buyers a bit more predictability. Today’s ~6.2-6.3% is much higher than what we saw in years prior. But compared to the 2023 highs (~7.5%-8%), it’s lower and has come down from that peak.

On the rental side, the story isn’t much easier. Rents across the DC metro continue to climb, particularly in popular neighborhoods and close to metro stations. For many renters, it’s starting to feel like they’re paying a mortgage — just not their own.

The Financial Equation

If you plan to stay in the area for at least three to five years, buying often makes more financial sense. You’re building equity each month and protecting yourself from rising rents. In Alexandria, for example, monthly mortgage payments on a $600,000 condo with a modest down payment may be comparable to rent on a similar property.

The Benefits of Buying

Homeownership offers both financial and personal rewards. Beyond building equity, owning a home provides stability in monthly payments, the freedom to customize your space, tax advantages, can amplify your credit, and build long-term wealth. In markets like Alexandria and Arlington, where long-term property values have remained resilient, homeowners often see steady appreciation.

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Listing of the Day: 8628 Plymouth Road

By ALXnow.com

Noteworthy: Unparalleled Craftsmanship & Elegant Design in Plymouth Haven

An exceptional new construction crafted by Wakefield Homes and designed by Kulinski Group Architects, this spectacular custom residence offers over 6,700 finished square feet across three meticulously finished levels, plus 670 square feet of unfinished space, including a bonus room with rough-in for a full bath above the three-car garage. Set on a private, fenced half-acre lot adjacent to open green space, this architectural gem is located in the prestigious Plymouth Haven neighborhood within the Waynewood Elementary School district.

Go to Listing of the Day: 8628 Plymouth Road Read more

Most and Least Expensive: October 21, 2025

By Adrianna Vallario of Compass Real Estate

This recurring Most and Least Expensive Home feature is sponsored by Adrianna Vallario of Compass. Based in Alexandria, VA, Adrianna is more than just a Real Estate Agent – she is a trusted advisor, relocation expert, and community advocate.

306 S Union St

Most Expensive Townhomes Sold in October:

Least Expensive Townhomes Sold in October:

If you have any questions about these listings, or are looking to make a move in the market, please contact Adrianna Vallario – Your Alexandria Real Estate Agent.

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