Every day new products are invented, new uses for old products are discovered, and employment opportunities created for millions of Americans. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a federal agency in the Department of Commerce that strives to protect the economic interests of inventors and the welfare of the public. According to the USPTO, the purpose of these patents is to "promote the progress of science and the useful arts by securing for limited times to inventors the exclusive right to their respective discoveries (Article 1, Section 8 of the United States Constitution)."

The USPTO is one of the very few government services that actually completely fee funded. This is as compared to the US Postal Service and Amtrak, which are both fee funded but run deficits requiring federal money.

The USPTO occupies five interconnected buildings in the Carlyle District of Alexandria, Virginia. This office employs over 7,000 full time staff to support its major functions---the examination and issuance of patents and the examination and registration of trademarks.

Every day young and old patent examiners move to our fair city seeking residence. Many prefer the new and sparkling appeal of the Carlyle District, while some enjoy the colonial feel of Old Town. While Old Town and Carlyle District are both closest, these areas are pricey. For those who want to live close to the USPTO but who are seeking bargains Huntington, New Alexandria or the West End are excellent alternatives.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and Will Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.