November, 2008:
I hit the jackpot!
Yes … that’s right.
I hit the jackpot. I won the lottery. Mine is the lucky number.
I won’t be giving up my blog or my real estate business because I won the jackpot. In fact, I’ll be working harder than ever. But today,
I pause to give thanks to God and family and friends and clients for this wonderful life of mine.
To tell the truth, I didn’t hit the lottery today. I won the lottery on the day I was born and I’ve been reaping the benefits ever since. The best part is … I didn’t even have to buy a ticket.
You see, I was born in the United States of America, which means that I already have life better than most of my fellow man. I’ve never known war, or famine or pestilence. I’ve enjoyed an ever increasing standard of living since the day I was born. If you were born in North America you probably won the lottery too.
But …
It gets better than that.
I was born in the Commonwealth of Virgina,
the Mother of States, the Mother of Presidents, the Capital of the Confederacy and the Pride of Dixie. The Commonwealth of Virginia, where Captain John Smith founded Jamestown. The state which George Washington and Thomas Jefferson and James Madison and James Monroe and William Henry Harrison and John Tyler and Zachary Taylor and Woodrow Wilson all called home. The state where Robert E. Lee fought and eventually surrendered.
The home of the Pentagon and the USPTO and the epicenter for the technology revolution. The Commonwealth of Virginia, most beautiful
state in the Union, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sparkling beaches of the Eastern Shore.
The Old Dominion cradled me as she cradles the Chesapeake Bay, one of the largest and most important estuaries on the Atlantic.
It gets better than that.
I was born in Fairfax, one of the most prosperous counties in the nation. I make my home where where the Piedmont meets the Tidewater, on a ridge overlooking the Potomac River in a place called Belle Haven—one of the nicest neighborhoods in Fairfax County and Alexandria. My trusted, loyal and beautiful wife is busy making a Thanksgiving feast.
My sons are healthy and headed for home. Life could be better … but I really don’t know how.
So, today, I give thanks. Thanks to God, family, friends, clients and country for all that I have been given. I rededicate myself to the purpose of good and wish you and all of yours a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. I hope your Christmas is merry and expect you to have a prosperous and healthy New Year.
Alexandria House — condos with a view in Old Town
With floor-to-ceiling windows and wrap-around balconies, the 23-story Alexandria House invites sunlight and star-gazing. Constructed of concrete and stucco in 1975, the building affords spectacular views of National Harbor, the Maryland shore, the Capitol and the landmark Masonic Memorial looming above Old Town.
Located at the corner of Madison Street and North Pitt Street, Alexandria House overlooks Oronoco Park just four blocks from the Potomac River. As if the delights of Old Town weren’t enough, it boasts the following amenities:
- Rooftop pool and observation deck
- concierge
- party room,
- Sauna and exercise room
- Security system featuring a locked main entrance and exterior cameras
- Fire detection system
- Storage
- Underground garage
Showing properties
1 - 5 of 7.
See more Alexandria House.
(all data current as of
2/11/2012)
-
$389,900 : 400 Madison St #506, Alexandria1 bed, 1 full, 1 part baths
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$342,500 : 400 Madison St #1005, Alexandria1 bed, 1 full bath
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$529,000 : 400 Madison St #1207, Alexandria2 beds, 2 full baths
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$542,000 : 400 Madison St #901, Alexandria2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths
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$440,000 : 400 Madison St #303, Alexandria2 beds, 2 full baths
Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.
You’ve been prequalified … what now?
I met with a first-time buyer over the weekend. She was prequalified by Condominium Mortgage. Prequalifying helped frame her choices. It’s a waste of time and energy to look at homes that are outside of the budget, so prequalification is the first step for any home buyer. Here are the steps that we’ll be taking on the road to home ownership.
photo credit: lumaxart
- Tour properties — We took a top level tour of some of the properties that are in her
budget. This gives the client something concrete and real to think about so that she can decide whether this home ownership thing is for her or not. In addition to the units we saw, I can think of a number of places that would also fall within this client’s budget and still offer a very reasonable commute to Ft. Belvoir. But I wanted to get her impressions of these places before going on a bit deeper. - Revisiting — We’ll revisit those communities that hold the greatest interest and look at everything available in those communities. (So far we just did a top level search.)
- A few more choices — If none of these really feel right, we’ll find a few more to consider and continue with the search.
- Make an offer — When we’ve found the property that stirs the soul, fits the budget and feels right, I’ll write up an offer. At that time I’ll collect “earnest money”.
- The earnest money is evidence that the seller is serious about the purchase and is held in escrow until the sale is completed. We’ll submit a preapproval letter, a copy of the earnest money deposit and the signed offer for the seller to consider.
- Negotiations — Sometimes there is a difference between the asking price and the selling price. The selling price is determined by negotiation. We’ll pass drafts of the contract back and forth until the buyer and seller have agreed on all terms.
- Loan processing — Julie at Condominium Mortgage will then collect documentation from the client. This documentation will serve the purpose of proving the representations made in the loan application process. The buyer will produce pay stubs, bank statements etc. Julie will also order an appraisal as required by all lenders.
- Settlement — Settlement is the word used to describe the actual transfer of ownership. We’ll settle on the property in a timely fashion on an agreed upon date. Settlement will occur at a title company’s office and a settlement agent will ensure that funds are present as is marketable title.
- Ownership — Here’s where the fun begins … as does the responsibility of home ownership.
The Fountains — condos in the West End of Alexandria VA
The Fountains Condominiums at 301 Beauregard is conveniently located near Duke St. and I-395. This high-rise condo community is in the West End of Alexandria VA. It’s located just a few blocks from Van Dorn St., Landmark and Lincolnia.
Every condo at the Fountains has plenty of light and windows. Many condos at the Fountains have balconies with views toward the city or the Blue Ridge.
The Fountains is an older building but very well-maintained. The carpets in the common areas are in top shape, as are the amenities of the Fountains.
The Fountains Management Office
For facilities questions, condo documents, insurance questions and more please contact:
Fountains 301 Condominiums
301 N. Beauregard
Alexandria VA 22312(703) 354-1300
(703) 354 2978 (fax)
Buying, Selling or Renting at the Fountains?
Condo Alexandria specializes in condominiums.
You can reach an agent by phone at 703 765 0300 or by email here. Here are driving directions to the office of Condo Alexandria.
Amenities of the Watergate at Landmark
The Watergate at Landmark features 13-foot balconies. Units vary with hardwood and carpeted floors, spacious closets, crown molding and renovated kitchens with washers and dryers. Parking spaces are included in the unit price; garage parking can cost extra.
Owners may have pets as approved by landlords on an individual basis.
The center of life at Watergate is an enormous 38,000-square foot, multi-purpose community center and an adjoining fitness center. The town center has several of life’s conveniences including a hair salon, deli and convenience store. The community center has:
Indoor pool
- an indoor heated pool with lap lanes,
- exercise and fitness center,
- sauna,
- library,
- card room,
- billiard room,
- ping-pong, and
- resident services desk.
balconies at the Watergate
The community center is accessible from all four residential buildings via a short-walk outside or by underground passages. The Watergate is not far from Old Town. Via I-395, the Pentagon, Washington DC and Tyson’s Corner are easy commutes. The Watergate has a shuttle for easy metro connections.
condo comparison at the Huntington Metro: AMENITIES
This is part of series of articles comparing the benefits of condos in close proximity to the Huntington Metro
Amenities are an important part of any condo buying decision.
Amenities such as a pool and fitness room are pretty standard in most
condos, but some condos offer a bit more. It is no different in the
four complexes surrounding the Huntington Metro.
No matter how you compare them, the best amenities on the block are
at Montebello. Montebello’s community center is home to most of these
amenities and it is well-maintained and pleasant. Here’s a list of some
of the features of Montebello.
- Parks & Grounds
- Security
- 24-hour security
- gated community
- Indoor Activities
- Convenience & Services
- Party Rooms & Common Areas
- Health & Fitness
- Pools
The runner-up in this category is at the Midtowns at Alexandria. The
Midtowns have an absolutely gorgeous lobby and lounge (a cyber cafe) on
the first floor. The pool at the Midtowns is on a roof deck located
half-way up the building. From this party deck, one has great vistas
toward the Blue Ridge and the city of Alexandria. There are barbecue
stations and more to enjoy here on the deck. The party room is first
class and state of the art. It’s the type of place you’d be proud to
bring guests or enjoy as a resident.
The Huntington Club and the Hunting Creek Club are far behind the
first two on this list. These two condos have more pedestrian offerings
that are standard fare. Both have a pool, party room and fitness room.
(Huntington Club recently renovated their pool.) Hunting Creek Club has
a nice tennis court.
King Street in Old Town Alexandria
The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the hill where King St. veers away from Old Town. From the George Washington Memorial and from the Metro, one can look down King St. toward the Potomac to the unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and activities of Old Town Alexandria. The area has some of the shops you would expect in an upscale mall, but many of shops and restaurants you’ll find only here.
Old Town Alexandria was a Colonial seaport. It is located down-river and within eyesight of Washington DC. Alexandria was George Washington’s hometown. The city’s roster of historic sites underlines how historically influential it has been. Thomas Jefferson entertained at Gadsby’s Tavern; Robert E. Lee worshiped at Christ Church.
The Old Town district includes more than 4,000 historic buildings, outstanding examples of early American architecture that now house small businesses and gracious homes, all waiting to give you a modern welcome. Old Town is characterized by brick sidewalks that line historic structures and even two blocks of cobblestoned streets. Elegant modern structures are carefully planned to fit with the feel of Old Town. 
Real Estate in Old Town is generally pricey and prestigious. Parking can be a bit of a hassle, especially in touristy areas along King Street; therefore, a great way to explore the area is to take the Metro to King St. and then hop a ride on the King St. Trolley.
Old Town is a great place to live, with historic properties,
condominiums, garden-style condos, townhouses and houses. Check here to
search available property:
- For sale — Live data on all condos for sale in Old Town (22314) zip code.
Showing properties
1 - 5 of 29.
See more Kings Street Metro.
(all data current as of
2/11/2012)
-
$1,099,000 : 1707 Prince St #8, Alexandria3 beds, 3 full baths
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$759,000 : 1314 Duke St #10, Alexandria3 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
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$520,000 : 2121 Jamieson Ave #911, Alexandria2 beds, 2 full baths
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$612,500 : 2105 Jamieson Ave, Alexandria3 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths
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$969,000 : 321 Fayette St S, Alexandria3 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.
Shops of Crystal City
Crystal City has an abundance of shops and eateries with over 200 choices, including apparel, electronics, jewelry, specialty gifts and books/newspapers.
Many of these shops are located underground between Crystal Drive, 15th and 23rd Streets. The shops of Crystal City are just five minutes from downtown Washington, Old Alexandria, and right off the Metro Yellow/Blue line at the Crystal City station.
Many services are also provided at Crystal City Shops such as
- pedicures,
- banking,
- shipping,
- medical health,
- cleaners,
- car rentals,
- shoe repair,
- costume tailors, and more.
Guests of Crystal City can stay at one of 11 hotels which offer accommodations to suit most tastes.
Parking at Crystal City is available in two enclosed parking garages
with easy access to all the stores. Parking is free on weekdays after 4
pm and all day Saturdays and Sundays. Parking entrances for shops at
2100 are Crystal Drive between 20th and 23rd Streets. Parking entrances
for shops at 1750 are between 15th and 18th Streets.
Store Hours:
Monday to Friday 10 am – 7 pm
Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
Shops at 2100
Monday to Saturday 10 am to 6pm
Some stores open on Sundays
For general information call (703) 922-4636
For condos and all your real estate needs in Crystal City, contact Condo Alexandria.
- Search condos and real property in Crystal City
- Rental management and landlord services
- Sell your Crystal City condo now!
Hunting Creek Club neighborhood comparison
This is part of series
of articles comparing the benefits
of condos in close proximity to the Huntington Metro
If you need a balcony or patio in your condo, you’ve come to the right place. All four of these complexes have balconies or patios in most units. The Huntington Club, the Hunting Creek Club and Montebello all have balconies, patios or verandas in every single unit. Now obviously the new units have slightly more appealing balconies, but to sort them from top to bottom, this comparison focuses on the views.
If a good view is something you absolutely must have from your condo and balcony, you’re best chance of finding that view is at Hunting Creek Club. Nearly every unit in the building offers a panorama over the city or toward the Potomac. Some of these units have absolutely breathtaking views. You must see them to appreciate them as 400 pixels of cyberspace can’t approximate what you’ll see.
You’ll find good views at all the others. Many decks at Huntington Club look toward the US Patent & Trademark Office, the Carlyle skyline and the Masonic Temple at Shooter’s Hill. Montebello has many pleasant views into and above the treetops. At the Midtowns you’ll find a nice view here and there. So, it is possible to find good views at any of the others. But at Hunting Creek Club you will consistently find sweeping and pleasant views.
Sponsored by Condo Alexandria / Will
Nesbitt Realty LLC
Serving real estate needs of Northern
VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County ·
Condo Buying Tip
If you’re thinking of buying a new condo, you probably already know that every new condo development will have its own sales staff. These people are often friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about the new condominium. However, these folks work to sell this property only. The on-site staff of a new condominium knows the property as-well-as or better than anyone around and they are there to assist you but they work for the builder.
When in the market for a new condo, it’s a good idea to employ a condo expert such as Will Nesbitt of Condo Alexandria
to protect your interests. A condominium agent knows the entire area, not just one property. An expert knows the pitfalls and benefits of buying new, and best of all it won’t cost you one dime more than if you use the onsite staff. You have a right to representation: exercise that right today!
This article was reprinted by permission from CondoBenefits.com. If you are a condo expert or if you would like a link from
CondoBenefits.com just drop me a line. I’m building a directory of condo experts from around the country at that site and would love your input!