This Neighborhood Spotlight is brought to you by The Seward Group of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.

Waynewood is the kind of neighborhood that seems timeless — a special place reminiscent of simpler times. We all know neighbors who are lucky enough to have their children return and raise their families here.


Question: Why do local traditions matter when selling a home?

Answer: In February, I told you about the somewhat painful and sometimes silly family organization of my parents’ home to prep it for sale. (Click here for a refresher.) What I didn’t tell you was about the toddler-sized nutcrackers in my mother’s collection, which scared everyone who stayed in the guest room, or the drama caused when a large, live opossum landed on the chest of the HVAC technician installing new systems in the crawl space.


If you’re looking for a policy degree that’s specifically focused on advancing your career, the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University is the right fit.

With classes held in the evening and part-time options available, Schar School graduate programs are convenient for working professionals and are designed to teach applicable, real-world skills for in-demand careers in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. Plus, the school is one of the best values in education; the affordable public institution offers a wide range of scholarships and a strong return on investment.


Encore Stage & Studio is expanding its theatre arts outreach to the City of Alexandria with support from the City’s Arts Grant Program.

Encore created an “Encore On Demand” online series for Alexandria children ages 3 through 9. The series includes a variety of activities with teaching artists including movement, songs, arts and crafts, and more. Encore On Demand allows young City residents to enjoy theatre classes at home.


Today’s artificial-intelligence and machine-learning technologies touch all aspects of the computing environment, from front-end systems to back-office workflows. Many IT and business leaders are realizing significant business value from their investments.

For some, this means the ability to process information, such as financial data and customer interactions, at a higher speed than humans and with fewer errors due to sophisticated algorithms. For others, AI/ML lets IT leaders quickly understand pressing problems and execute a plan of action. AI-powered cybersecurity tools, which can detect threats before they have a chance to wreak havoc on IT infrastructure, are a perfect example.


This week’s Q&A column is written by Karisue Wyson, Director of Recruiting & Agent Support at McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article, contact Karisue at 703-615-0876 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: What Can Ted Lasso Teach Us About Real Estate?


This gorgeous historic brick Federal-style townhouse in a prime Old Town location, built in 1812, has been impeccably updated, expanded and restored! The stately home sits on a generous triple lot featuring classically elegant yet modernized interiors, and a rare, converted carriage house complete with its own private entrance, living space, kitchen, bedroom and bath is perfect for a home office or guest suite.

Gracious living space is enriched by the stunning heart of pine floors, six original fireplaces, tall ceilings, exquisite millwork, and formal living and dining rooms that are well suited for entertaining. The fabulous eat-in kitchen is well appointed with custom cabinetry, an elongated island, stainless steel appliances and a sunny breakfast area. The glorious family room features coffered ceilings, a fireplace flanked by built-ins and French doors on both sides that open to the outdoor oasis.


Question: What’s the current status of the mortgage industry?

Answer: The pandemic has had a significant impact on the residential mortgage industry. At the beginning of the public health crisis, investors in mortgage-backed securities stopped purchasing the instruments, which caused a liquidity shortage and a spike in the rates available to consumers. The Federal Reserve quickly stepped in and began purchasing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac issuances, stabilizing the market and easing rates. Underwriting standards involving employment, income, liquid reserves and credit scores were tightened by Fannie, Freddie and jumbo loan providers. Some lenders in the jumbo space chose to stop making those types of loans until the economic impact of the pandemic was understood.


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