The Microconvention is a great chance to go in a gaming binge, or just meet some new people.

This event usually runs several hours, but don't feel obligated to attend the entire event. At the Microcon, about 50 local folks gather to play a wide variety of games. We play everything from light-hearted social games and party games to head-scratching strategy games to an RPG or two. At the Microconvention you'll have the opportunity to play games you've never seen before and to make new friends.

The group's motto is: fun, food & games! This is a relaxed social environment with games that range from simple to complex. If you've never been to a Microcon, it's a great opportunity to meet some fun folks, play your favorite games, and enjoy good times. Have a game you've been dying to play? Bring it!

Games

We generally have 30 to 60 people playing a variety of games over the course of several hours. We take care to have a mix of games: strategy games, card games, social games, traditional games, wargames and role-playing games. We used to post a schedule of tables and games, but now we just show up and mill about.

Food

The event fee INCLUDES THE FOOD. (Such a deal!) Event organizers will provide snacks and beverages as well as dinner. This month's dinner will be Italian themed. Mangia, Mangia!

Venue

We host this event at River Towers. River Towers is accessible by Metro bus from Huntington Station. During non-rush hour weekends, the bus comes to River Towers from Huntington Station every hour.

RSVP and more details about the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group here.

Clemyjontri Park is a very unique public park. Like any other park, kids at Clemyjontri can enjoy playground fun. But Clemyjontri is unique in Fairfax County because this is a place where children with and without disabilities can play side-by-side.

The distinctions are subtle: Clemyjontri Park is like any other playground, with swings, slides and fun play-equipment. But this park is design with simple changes such as swings with high backs for children who need extra support or nice wide colorful pathways. Most of the grounds are non-slip and with a porous design that provides a greater level of access for children.

The playground has two acres of STUFF! Stuff to climb on, stuff to touch, stuff to read, do or create. Kids love stuff like the Rainbow Room; the Schoolhouse; the Maze, Picnic Area, Movin' and Groovin' Transportation Area; and the Fitness and Fun Zone. The pride of Clemyjontri is at the center of the park: the carousel!

The kids that visit love the racetrack. The playhouses have crawling nooks and places to explore. Many children enjoy the balance beams. There are community areas, and places where kids can play alone. There are bright sunny places to play and shaded benches and play areas as well.

An asphalt trail connects the site to trails that encircle the park.

This playground is for all children. Help us keep it clean and safe.

• No smoking, food or beverages are allowed on the playground.
• Use playground and equipment for its intended purpose only.
• Bicycles, skateboards, etc. are not permitted in the play areas.
• Children and visitors should use age-appropriate playground equipment only.
• No pets of any kind are permitted on the playground.

Clemyjontri Park

6317 Georgetown Pike
McLean, Virginia 22101
703-388-2807

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.

Potomac Greens is located just off the GW Parkway and Slaters Lane near the Washington Sailing Marina just minutes from Reagan National Airport. It's close to Potomac Yards, Crystal City, Old Town Alexandria and Washington DC.

With an unbeatable location, Potomac Greens offers prestige in an urban and luxurious environment that hearkens to the best of Old Town in a brand new neighborhood. The Georgetown-style brick architecture is elegant, enduring and a perfect fit with the colonial feel of Old Town.

Townhomes at Potomac Greens are spacious---up to 3900 sqft. Potomac Greens townhouses are 3 or 4 finished levels; many have with rooftop decks. Nine and ten foot ceilings are standard.

These residences are large, but there is no skimping on luxuries. Hardwood floors and custom-built-ins work well with the luxuriously appointed kitchens.

Parking is often at a premium in Old Town, but Potomac Greens offers two-car garages.  

Potomac Greens offers both new and resale residences. Contact Will Nesbitt anytime at 703 765 0300 to view this or other properties in Alexandria.

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.

Arts

Libraries

Parks

Government

The Torpedo Factory Art Center is presenting several themed galleries through the month of March. Now is the time to get to Old Town before month's end!

Black White and a Little Bit of Color

Printmakers Inc. will have a special exhibit with examples of prints that use black and white and a little bit of color. This exhibit is open daily from 03/01/2009 to 04/30/2009.

Looking Back, Looking Ahead

Do you appreciate black and white photography? Prominent Montgomery County photographer Karen Keating explores the visual poetry of everyday life through compelling black and white images. Travels to Europe, Africa, Honduras, Bulgaria, and Cuba have clearly sharpened her vision, allowing her to discover the extraordinary in the quiet moments of everyday life. There will be a reception for the photographer on Sunday, March 8, from 4 to 6 pm. The exhibit is open from March 3rd to April 4th.

Annual Kiln Club Show

This month the Torpedo Factory is hosting the annual show of works by members of the Kiln Club. The show is hosted by Twylene Moyer, editor of Sculpture magazine. The reception is held on Second Thursday Art Night, March 12, from 6pm to 9pm. The show will be open daily from March 9 through April 5.

Old Town is a great neighborhood.

The Torpedo Factory is just one of the reasons that Old Town is such a wonderful place to live. If you're searching for a condo for sale in Old Town here are a few suggestions.

• Alexandria House --- spacious, airy condos with enormous balconies and sweeping views of Old Town
• Bearings South --- cute, brick garden style homes on the South End of Old Town
• Carlyle Towers --- sleek, modern and convenient to King St. Metro and Old Town
• Chatham Square --- stately, nicely appointed, townhouses with garages in Old Town
• Carlyle Square --- elegant, modern and convenient condominiums
• The Duke at Old Town --- under construction in Old Town
• Porto Vecchio --- at the water's edge on the Potomac between Belle Haven Marina and Old Town
• Port Royal --- affordably priced with a condo fee that includes all utilities in the heart of Old Town
• Prescott --- colonial styled condominiums in Old Town
• Royalton --- sparkling gems atop Whole Foods in Old Town Alexandria
• Torpedo Factory --- stylish condos near the waterfront and King St.

If you'd like to search for homes or townhouses in and around Old Town, check here.

Friday April 3rd, several members of the Alexandria Fun with Friends group will be in attendance along with a friendly crowd of regulars at Studio One. The host welcomes everyone and plays a variety of dances: rumba's, waltzes, foxtrots and swing dances are common here.

The dance floor is quite large and you'll have plenty of opportunities to dance with new partners. The regulars and are members are open and welcoming but no dance instruction is offered here. Those looking for a pick-up scene will be disappointed. It's not that you can't meet and make friends here---you most definitely can. But, this is not a place to find "the hook-up". Those looking for a wholesome active outing with friendly easy-going people will have a great time.

The host and attendees chip in for a potluck of snacks, desserts and nibblings along with some soft drinks. The cover charge is only $5. There is no extra charge for drinks or food. Attendees are encouraged (but not required) to bring a drink or snack.

The place is not metro accessible and is located in the Shopping Center off Rt. 1 behind Chevy's and Ruby Tuesdays. The entrance itself is between Bed Bath and Beyond and the Discount Superstore. Enter at the corner and proceed to the second floor.

We'll see you there!

RSVP and more details here.

The Alexandria Fun with Friends group is arranging a movie outing Friday March 27th.  If you're interested in attending or joining the group, click Alexandria Fun with Friends for more details.

All attendees will be entered into a drawing for a fabulous prize from the dollar store! And yes, you must be present to win.

Here's a link to the trailer on IMDB: TRAILER

Our mission is to have fun and make friends by playing games & organizing social get-togethers.

Many of our gatherings are related to gaming because we find it's an easy way to interact with friends and strangers alike. We play a wide variety of games including:

• social games
  
• RPG's
  
• eurogames
  
• card games and traditional games
  

• attend the theater
  
• attend local museums and sites
  
• ballroom dancing
  
• bowling
  
• karaoke
  
• wine tasting
  
• organize barbecues and potlucks
  
• philosophize, and more
  

Prescott condominiums are located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria near the crossings of Cameron, Henry and North Fayette streets. The design of Prescott condos recreates early 1900 architecture in the form of Queen Ann style of row houses. Prescott offers an interesting contrast of exteriors that harken back more than a century and the best of modern interior design.

That design includes a designer kitchen with stainless steel appliances, 42 inch Maple cabinets and granite countertops. The units feature a nine foot ceiling in all living areas with thick hardwood flooring in the kitchen, foyer, living and dining rooms. The windows already have designer blinds installed. The foyer, living and dining rooms are nicely trimmed with two-piece crown molding. Closets feature wood shelving and all doors have brushed chrome hardware.

Old Town is a wonderful place to live, but in 1900 homes weren't pre-wired for cable, Internet and ceiling fans. The Prescott has this and recessed lighting in kitchen and dining room. Many units have spacious walk-in closets.

The bathrooms have ceramic tile in all baths with Corian vanity countertops with integral Corian sink and Kohler plumbing fixtures. Of course, the washer and dryer are in the unit and the rooms bedrooms have wall-to-wall carpeting.

Units have aluminum clad, double hung, tilt in, insulated windows with simulated true divided lights. The rooftop terrace with patio furniture and gas grill is a great way to get away and enjoy views of Old Town. Parking is always at a premium in Old Town but these units have underground parking space included with controlled access to garage, elevators and lobby.

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.

New to the Area?

This is an update on an old article I put together for people who are brand new to Northern Virginia. Because of the many employment opportunities and because of the pleasant nature of the city of Alexandria, Alexandria often and consistently rates as one of the nation's best cities. If you're brand new to the area, it's hard to know where to start when looking for a home or residence. There are TOO MANY CHOICES.

Before you can find your house you have to find your neighborhood. Before you find your neighborhood you have to find your way around the city. For this reason, a quick description of the components of Alexandria is helpful.

Old Town

Old Town (sometimes called Olde Town, Old Towne or Olde Towne) is the heart of Alexandria. As the name implies, Old Town is the oldest part of the city. Alexandria was a port in colonial times owing to its location along the Potomac. These days Old Town is found just inside the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and then north toward Reagan National Airport. Old Town is served by the King St. Metro and the King St. trolley. With over 100 restaurants, shops, boutiques, coffee shops, ice cream houses and more, Old Town has both a small town, upscale and touristy feel. For most folks there is a bit of prestige attached to an Old Town address. There are two high rises near the waterfront at the Alexandria House and Port Royal. Old Town Alexandria has many townhouses, row houses and a smaller number single family homes. Click Old Town to search listings of properties in Old Town Alexandria.

Del Ray

Although its history doesn't stretch to the colonial days, Del Ray is another relatively old neighborhood. Del Ray was founded in 1894 as a "streetcar suburb" to Washington, DC. Most of Del Ray was built from the 1890's to the 1950's and retains that small town charm despite being so close to the center of the universe. Quaint streets with brick or stone homes are found on streets that branch off from Del Ray's arteries.

At the heart of Del Ray is the main street: Mount Vernon Avenue. This where you'll find a hometown mix of shops, restaurants and hardware stores. Braddock Road metro serves Del Ray and condos such as Colecroft Station are available here.

Click Del Ray for a map of Del Ray and for listings of properties for sale in Del Ray. Or, click Del Ray for listings for sale in the Del Ray subdivision of Alexandria.

Arlandria

As the name implies, Arlandria at the border of Alexandria City and Arlington County. Arlandia is just north of Del Ray at terminus of Mount Vernon Avenue. Some residents also call this neighborhood Chirilagua. Arlandia has many small shops and restaurants.

Click Arlandria for a map of the general area and to search properties listed for sale in Arlandria.

Eisenhower Valley

The Eisenhower Valley describes the area found along Eisenhower Avenue. At the western end of Eisenhower Avenue one will find warehouses and businesses such as FedEx and UPS who appreciate easy access to the Interstate. Click Eisenhower West to search property at the west end of Eisenhower, near the Van Dorn Metro station.

On the east end, where Eisenhower Avenue approaches Old Town, you'll find the United States Patent & Trade Office and the high-end high-rise neighborhood of the Carlyle District. The USPTO is a complex of five buildings that accommodate more than 7,000 federal employees. Residents of the Carlyle District have easy access to the Hoffman Town Center at the Eisenhower Metro. The Carlyle District is an intriguing place to live because it's so close to the charm and amenities of Old Town, but is new and modern. Click Eisenhower East to find properties listed for sale here.

West End

Like the Eisenhower Valley, the West End of Alexandria is a mixed bag. Condos and high rises abound in "Condo Canyon" near Landmark and Lincolnia. But development from the 1950's and 1960's is also found tucked on side streets and around unexpected corners. The homes around and near Seminary Road are regarded by many as stately and highly desirable. Another interesting neighborhood in the West End is Cameron Station. Cameron Station is a newer development of townhouses and condos, but the stylings and architecture imitate the best of Old Town. Cameron Station is relatively close to both Landmark Mall and Old Town.

The West End is well connected to Washington DC via I-395. The West End is the newest and largest part of the city. The West End has a diverse selection of restaurants and shops as well as Landmark Mall and several fine hotels. Fort Ward Park and Museum is found in the West End of Alexandria.

Click West End for a glance at what's for sale and to see a map of the West End.

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.

Eclipse at Center Park is located on the southern end of Crystal City.

Many units overlook the Potomac and Arlington or Alexandria.

	The Eclipse is well served by buses and very close to Crystal City metro and the shops of Crystal City. Harris Teeter serves the community with a grocery store on the first floor of the building.
The club room is a great place to hang out or play a game of billiards. Watch a movie in our theater room or just relax in the owner's lounge. There is a pool and fitness center on-site.
The Eclipse is near many shops at Potomac Yard and Pentagon City Mall.

Here are some search tools if you're in the market for a condominium in Crystal City:

• Crystal City --- condos, houses and townhouses for sale in Crystal City
• Bella Vista --- spacious condos with balconies and views of the city
• Crystal Gateway --- gateway condominiums in Crystal City
• Eclipse at Center Park --- new condos on the southern end of Crystal City
• The Representative --- on the Ridge overlooking Crystal City
• Waterford House --- on Crystal Drive with easy access to Arlington and DC

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.

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.

• Crystal City --- condos, houses and townhouses for sale in Crystal City
• Bella Vista --- spacious condos with balconies and views of the city
• The Representative --- on the Ridge overlooking Crystal City
• Waterford House --- on Crystal Drive with easy access to Arlington and DC
• Crystal Gateway --- gateway condominiums in Crystal City

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.

How about a relaxed evening of gaming with old friends and new acquaintances? If you've never attended an event here, there are plenty of seats and tables.

Boardgames
Please bring your favorite game and be ready to teach others. Popular Eurogames such as Ticket to Ride, Carcasonne, Medici and Aquadukt are of course welcomed. Some people enjoy older classics like Settlers of Catan. Social games, traditional games and card games are also popular.

Don't worry if you've never heard of these games, you're still welcome and most of them are very easy to learn and play. We play for fun---not for blood or money.

Food
This event will occur near dinner-time so bring and appetite. Pizzeria Venti has lots of great items and offers a 10% discount to all our members. I'll probably arrive early and eat before the event. TIP: check out the ice cream at Pizzeria Venti.

Parking and Metro
Pizzeria Venti is accessible via the King St. Metro. Parking is always tough in this neighborhood, but you should be able to find something.

RSVP and details here

I recently visited Skyline Square condos. It was a misty, rainy spring day but I snapped a few pictures anyway. Even on a nearly rainy day, many of the views at Skyline Square are great.

The Skyline Square Shuttle was at the ready when we visited.

It was parked in front of the lobby / office which is located between the twin towers of Skyline Square. The fly-over walk through gives residents easy access to mail and to the office.

The lobby itself is big and spacious.

The nearby parking garage holds plenty of vehicles.

The kitchen in this unit had new appliances and cabinets.

The pool is quite large and is located between the two towers of Skyline Square. In early spring the pool is still covered.

Some units look inward toward the other tower at Skyline Square.

Even here the views are great.

The balconies at Skyline Square are large with sweeping views.

The prime views here in my opinion look South East toward Old Town Alexandria and the Potomac.

The view north toward the Blue Ridge Mountains is also pleasant.

Click Skyline-Square.Info to search or compare condos at Skyline Square and to see a map of Skyline Square.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Will Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo 1 Alexandria. 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.

I recently went on an excursion to Braddock Place and several condos near the Braddock Metro Station. The homes in this area are reasonably priced with excellent commutes to Alexandria, the Pentagon, Crystal City, DC and Arlington. Here's the view from a typical balcony as it looks back toward Old Town and the Potomac.

This condo had a nice kitchen with a pass through that allows light in from the balcony into the kitchen.

This unit is just a few paces from the Braddock Metro Station passing through the circle and then overpass to the station.

All units have balconies in this condo community.

Fireplaces are another nice touch here.

Click Braddock Metro Station to see properties for sale that are a close walk to the metro. Or check out these search tips and tools:

• For sale --- Live data on all condos for sale in 22314 zip code.
• For rent --- Live data on rentals in 22314 zip code.

• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale less than $500,000 in 22314 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale from $300,000 to $700,000 in 22314 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale over $650,000 in 22314 zip code.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Will Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo 1 Alexandria. 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.

Kingstowne is a massive 22,000 acre subdivision---a planned community with nearly 5400 residences. The Northern Virginia region is home to many planned communities, Reston and Dale City come to mind quickly. Reston works well, but in my humble opinion, Kingstowne, the newest of the planned communities in this area, seemed to get things right. Kingstowne has a nice mixture of condos, townhouses and single family homes, with multiple entry points through broad rolling boulevards.

Kingstowne is so large, that many of the nearby subdivisions are now referred by many as being in Kingstowne. Yes, Kingstowne in many was has become its own little town. Never mind that nearby subdivisions like Island Creek and Manchester Lakes aren't officially in Kingstowne, many people still refer to the general area near Springfield and Franconia in Fairfax County, Virginia as Kingstowne.

One of the reasons that Kingstowne works so well is because of its position in the area's transportation network. For example, because Kingstowne is located just outside the Capital Beltway (I-495) and has easy access to the Springfield Mixing Bowl, the enormous junction of Interstates 95, 395, and 495, Kingstowne provides its residents a good commute to major employment centers like the Pentagon, Washington DC, Tysons Corner, Arlington and Alexandria. Via back-roads, Kingstowne connects very easily to Fort Belvoir.

The residents of Kingstowne can also reach downtown via the Metro's Blue Line at the Springfield-Franconia Metro or the Van Dorn Metro. Springfield-Franconia station is closer to Kingstowne and offers plenty of parking. Van Dorn Metro is closer to town and offers a "kiss and ride".

Despite being in a major metropolitan area, Kingstowne maintains a small town feel. Kingstowne Towne Centre has shops, grocers, restaurants, banks and fast food---in other words: all the conveniences of modern life. Nearby Springfield Mall serves most needs. Kingstowne is a great place to live.

Click Kingstowne to see what's for sale in and around Kingtowne.

About the Author: Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty in Alexandria VA. He specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne.

The Capital Beltway is interstate I-495. It circles Washington DC by way of Virginia and Maryland. The Beltway crosses the Potomac at two points. South of DC the Beltway crosses the Potomac via the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. North of DC, I-495 crosses the Potomac just south of Great Falls on the American Legion Bridge. The bridges are area choke-points and often snarl traffic at the bridge approach. The sign above is 5.5 miles south of the drawbridge at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

When construction or problems narrow the flow of cars, traffic starts to back up.

But often the Beltway is like any other interstate in America---any other interstate that is 10 lanes wide and circles the capital that is. To search for a home near the Beltway or to find a residence that will fit your commute check with Condo 1 Alexandria.

About the Author: Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty in Alexandria VA. He specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne.

Last weekend Julie and I decided to take a walk on the trails near the Belle Haven Marina. The weather was warm, one of the first nice days of Spring, so we had a nice little walk to the water's edge.

The trail follows the edge of the Potomac and is relatively quiet even though it's just off the George Washington Parkway.

The day was not so gloomy as these pictures turned out and it was very pleasant just off the trail.

There was a bird here and I tried hard to get him on camera, but he was much too quick. He would dive and then surface with a fish in his beak. We saw him eat at least six fish. I was amazed by how much one little bird could eat.

Foxy came with us and she trotted into the water to bark at ducks but didn't have the courage to take a swim.

About the Author: Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty in Alexandria VA. He specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne.

Fetch is a pet store in Old Town Alexandria that sells gourmet doggy-treats and other high quality gourmet goodies. I thought it would be fun to take my dog Foxy on a field trip to Fetch and the bakery that makes these gourmet doggie biscuits.

Foxy was eager to leave River Towers on her big adventure, even if she didn't know where she was going.

So we jumped in the car and took her around the corner to Old Town Alexandria VA.

Once we were in Old Town, Foxy decided to read the doggie-newspaper. One can learn a lot from a green patch on a brick-sidewalk.

Then it was off to Fetch and to see Marion.

Foxy is Marion's adopted grandbaby. Marion always greets Foxy with a big hug and lots of kisses.Foxy loves the cookies at Fetch, but she was soon distracted ... she saw trouble coming.

Yep. Trouble at least that's what Foxy calls that adorable Jack Russell Terrier named Magnum. Magnum wanted to play, but Foxy didn't like sharing Marion's attention. Foxy's not on the man-hunt and had no interest in Magnum.

So we left town and headed to Beltsville, where they bake the Zanadu cookies sold in Fetch and Chateau Animaux.

The art work at the bakery was wonderful, but Foxy wanted to see where the action took place.

She toured the bakery and found that everything is human grade, made with great loving care. Here's the cookie cutter.

She grabbed a green tea and cookie and they put her to work, bagging and labelling cookies.

About

Over the years, Doolittle's Chateau-Animaux has been featured in numerous articles, radio and television broadcasts, both national and international, including: USA Today, Pet Product News, Pet Business, Dog World (Japan), Washingtonian, Washington Business Journal, WASHINGTON spaces, Sam Donaldson's "Live in America" (ABC radio), Washington, D.C. Style, The Vicki Gabereau Show (Canadian Television Network), The Hill Rag, Voice of the Hill, Roll Call, The Hill, The Washington Times, The Washington Post, The Washington Post Magazine, NBC Style: A Show for You (WBIR-TV 10, NBC, Knoxville, TN), It's Christopher Lowell (Discovery Channel), The Delta Shuttle Sheet, Pleasure-Scene, Budget Living, WTTR radio, CHAMPS' Capitol Hill Business Quarterly, CHAMPSdc.org, Barracks Row Bulletin, WFAA-TV, Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; KHOU-TV, Houston, TX; KING-TV, Seattle-Tacoma, WA; KTVK-TV, Phoenix, AZ; KMOV-TV, St. Louis, MO; KGW-TV, Portland, OR; WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC; KENS-TV, San Antonio, TX; WVEC-TV, Hampton-Norfolk, VA; WWL-TV, New Orleans, LA; KASA-TV, Albuquerque,-Santa Fe, NM; WHAS-TV, Louisville, KY; KOTV, Tulsa, OK; KVUE-TV, Austin, TX; KREM-TV, Spokane, WA; KMSB-TV, Tucson, AZ; KTVB-TV, Boise, ID; NorthWest Cable News, Seattle-Tacoma, WA; TXCN, Texas Cable News Network; Newswatch on CH 15, New Orleans, LA; Local News on Cable, Norfolk, VA, and others.

Click here to view Chateau-Animaux Press Coverage

Chateau-Animaux regularly sponsors community events in Washington, DC, including weekly dog and cat adoptions with Capitol Cats, Homeward Trails, K-9 Lifesavers and the Washington Humane Society, "Pride of Pets" fundraiser for PETS-DC, the Washington Humane Society's "Bark Ball", and the annual Halloween dog costume contest -- "Howl-O-Ween!"  Dennis Bourgault has served as President of the Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals, and the Boards of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, the Capitol Hill Business Improvement District and Barracks Row Main Street.

Walk to the Huntington Metro from Huntington Walk?

Huntington Walk is a 7 minute walk from the Huntington Metro. It is well served by Fairfax County Connector and the REX buses that regularly come down Rt. 1. Huntington Walk is a short drive from Old Town in Groveton near Beacon Hill Mall and shops such as Target, Giant, Petsmart, Panera, Outback, Chili's, TGIFridays, Famous Dave's and more.

Two Bedrooms for $1099 monthly!

I'm featuring a first floor unit that has been renovated with a new kitchen and new appliances. The kitchen and the dining areas feature ceramic tile floors. This 2 BR is currently for rent or for sale. The rent is $1099 monthly and there is possibly owner financing on a sale.

This unit has a double-sized balcony/patio. Laundry facilities are next door on the same floor. The unit has a large storage locker.

This is a 2 bedroom unit. The bedrooms and the living room have brand-new carpeting.

When I found this out I was a bit upset, so I worked a round of emails through the tenants, the landlord and the condo association. We advised all parties concerned that Condo 1 Alexandria proceeds from several assumptions:

1. Landlord and the tenants are entitled to all the benefits and rights of the subject association
2. Our tenants and landlords are bound by the same rules and regulations as everyone else. 
3. We also believe that we are part of a community and as such we should treat our neighbors with respect and dignity. 

I treat the condo associations as if they were our friends and neighbors.  

Now, if my next door neighbor improperly parked a vehicle at my home, my response would be to discuss the matter with my neighbor. My neighbor might not know the rules. My neighbor might need one night of lenience. My neighbor might have some reason for doing what he is doing. By talking with my neighbor or by issuing a warning of some sort I could preserve a friendship and partnership with my neighbor.

If my neighbor was not reasonable and if I could not come to an informal solution, then we would agree---as friends and neighbors---to fall back on the rules and regulations that guide our community.  

Tow First --- Ask Questions Later

I was upset because someone at the association or the towing company made the decision to tow first and ask questions later. That policy is the quickest way to destroy a community and pit neighbor against neighbor. Condo 1 Alexandria and our tenants and our landlords do not want to antagonize our neighbors or community. But, we ask that our neighbors wish us the same.

 As a part of my due diligence, I reviewed the new parking resolutions at Island Creek and came to understand that the tenant's work van was an unauthorized vehicle per the new November regulation. I had an older set of condo docs. Commonly, commercial vehicles are banned in residential areas, but there is a difference between a commercial vehicle and a work van with a logo painted on it.

Landlords and tenants should know that I do not make it my business to read each new resolution from the forty or so condo associations where Condo 1 Alexandria does business.

But if you ask me I personally think that the new Island Creek resolution diminishes the value of Island Creek, because it diminishes the number of people who will live in (and thus buy or rent in) Island Creek. However, I respect the resident's right to choose the type of community they wish and I agree that my clients will abide the resolution as written. I apologize for any offense, but I am complaining to better the community---not to make enemies. 

 Pictures don't lie. Check out this brand new listing at Belle View condos in Alexandria VA.

It's on Belle View Boulevard close to Belle View Shopping Center and George Washington Parkway. Belle Haven Marina is right around the corner.

Bamboo floors and tasteful paint make this a beautiful place to live. 

The kitchen is totally renovated and the landlord will leave the barstools for the next tenant. Granite countertops, brand-new cabinets and fixtures.

The first of three bedrooms.

The smallest of three bedrooms has a bike storage rack that the landlord will take or leave as the tenant wishes. There is additional storage downstairs!

The second bedroom has plenty of room for a queen sized bed and dresser.

The bathroom is mostly original but is in excellent shape. For more information about Belle View check out I love Belle View. To search what is for sale click Belle View.

Here are a few links I've collected for Skyline condos in Falls Church VA

• Skyline Square Info --- Official information about Skyline Square
• Skyline Square Condominiums --- News, tips and info about Skyline Square
• Skyline Square Condos --- Property search and real estate tips about Skyline Square condos
• Skyline Plaza --- Activities and places of interest around Skyline Plaza
• Skyline Plaza Info --- Skyline Plaza official contact information and more

To search property at Skyline Plaza, check here. Compare and shop what's available at Skyline House, Skyline Plaza and Skyline Square here.

Alexandria's history as a colonial seaport is well-known in the area, and is one of the reasons that this city to calls to visitors from around the country and around the world. Alexandria's seaport was once a bustling place of industry and commerce, but the cargo ships and packets from foreign seas are long gone now. Today, Alexandria's waterfront is geared more toward the pleasant than the practical.

Where the Water Meets the the Road

At the end of King St. where the road meets the water, there are brick walkways and wooden decks. Plenty of benches and gazebos are there and in the evenings this is a place to find street musicians and other performers practicing their craft before wandering walkers .

In the left side of this picture is the Torpedo Factory, an Alexandria landmark. The Torpedo Factory was what the name implies: an edifice dedicated to the construction of naval weapons of war. But as the industry's needs grew beyond the space here on the Alexandria waterfront, the building was repurposed as an art and crafts center. The building now houses a good many artists is is a wonderful place for tourists and residents alike to visit.

The Torpedo Factory

The Torpedo Factory and the waterfront are very close to the Torpedo Factory condos---high end condos in Old Town. For a list of prices and to check the availability of condos click the Torpedo Factory Condos. If you're interested in searching condos, townhouses and houses around Old Town you might find this post useful.

Metro Access

Among other things, the waterfront at Alexandria is nice because it's metro accessible. Simply take the Metro to King St. Station and then ride the free trolley to the Waterfront. The trolley is a service of the City of Alexandria for visitors and residents. It's a fun and easy way to make your way across Old Town.

Nearby Parks and Trails

Parks and paths line the waterfront these days. It's the perfect place for a walk on a Spring day.

Benches are found at just the right places. These photos were taking on a weekday morning, but in the afternoons and evenings the waterfront wakes up. Tourists, joggers and walkers share this open public space.

Good evening Mr. Nesbitt,

I placed an offer on a condo in December 30, 2008. I signed the contract on that day and gave a cashier's check to the seller's real estate agent in the amount of $750. I waited for the signed contract from the seller to come back to me, but a lot of time lapsed and a signed contract from the seller never came. I decided to pull out. On January 23, my agent sent in a statement, letting the seller know that I was pulling out and that I wanted my earnest money back. Several weeks later, the real estate agent said I had to sign a termincation form to receive my earnest money. That was sent in on February 10, 2009. I still have not received my earnest money back. The seller's agent said they are waiting on the assest manager to release the funds.

I have decided to take the agency to small claims court. I do not feel that best interest is being considered. Please give me some advice. Thanks.

Firstly and mostly, let me start off by saying that real estate agents and brokers are not attorneys. I do not practice law and it is not my business to give you legal advice of any kind. However, I do have some experience in these type of matters and will comment as best as I can.

Based upon your letter, I am assuming that you made an offer on a piece of property and you paid $750 in earnest money to the selling agent. The offer was not accepted but the selling agent has not promptly released your funds.

I would recommend that you call the selling broker---not the selling agent. Brokers and the Commonwealth of Virginia take very serious the trust given us as escrow agents. The broker (not the agent) must release the money. Try to speak directly with the broker and explain what you have gone through. I am certain that the selling broker will act swiftly to return you money.

If the broker does not respond with in a short but reasonable amount of time, the next level to contact would be the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors. If that doesn't give satisfaction, the Commonwealth of Virginia's DPOR should be your next contact. If you are owed money, things will proceed quickly at this point.

But you probably want to consult an attorney to verify that my advice will suit your specific case.

Will Nesbitt

Belle Haven Marina is found on the George Washington Parkway just south of historic Old Town Alexandria. Belle Haven Marina is owned by the National Park Service and operated by Belle Haven Marina Inc. The Belle Haven Marina is a short walk from River Towers, Belle View and New Alexandria. Rowboats, canoes, kayaks and sail boats are available for rent. Sign-up for sailing lessons and your package will include a limited number of free hours of sailing.

The Marina has a short pier and the George Washington Parkway has many points to fish the Potomac River. Many anglers rent or own boats which ply more serene and secluded spots nearby. The ramp fee is only $5.

From the marina, one can see the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

• Basketball
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Cinema
• Diving
• Farmer's Market
• Fitness Center
• Fishing
• Golf
• Hiking
• Historical
• Game Club
• Jet Skiing
• Library
• Mount Vernon Recreation Center
• Monuments
• Museums
• Racquetball
• Restaurants
• Roof Deck
• Sailing
• Swimming
• Shopping
• Sports Events
• Tennis
• Theatre
• Volunteering
• Water-skiing
• Wildlife Viewing
• Windsurfing

Flowers, trees and shrubs bloom
through-out the growing season at River Towers.

• For sale — Live data on all condos for sale in 22314 zip code.
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The story of Alexandria, especially Old Town, is rich in seafaring traditions. Alexandria is not really a great seaport anymore but yet and still many seagoing vessels---including pleasure boats, cruise liners, transport ships, tour ships and ships of war---ply the waters of the Potomac River and some of these vessels dock at the Alexandria Waterfront. Additionally, when the weather warms it is not uncommon to find thousands of residents and visitors can be found along the waterfront.

Because Alexandria has citizens and mariners in harms way, the the City of Alexandria Fire Department has developed the Marine Operations Team. to assist in the protection of citizens and mariners who use the various waterways in and adjacent to the city either for business or recreation. The City of Alexandria Marine Operations Team consists of 24 members and a Team Leader (Battalion Chief) trained and training as Marine Firefighters, Swift Water Rescue Technicians, Lifeguards, Boat Operators and Crewmembers.

Shown below is the Fireboat 201 Vigilant---a Class 'C' fireboat equipped with a 1500 gpm PTO pump and a full compliment of equipment as required by NFPA 1925. The Vigilant is a swift vessel capable of speeds greater than 40 knots. When needed, paramedics are deployed aboard Vigilant to give the vessel an Advanced Life Support capability.

The city also deploys two Zodiac all-weather inflatables are used by the Marine Operations Team to gain rapid access to persons in distress in the marine environment. They can also be utilized to assist members of the Hazardous Materials in deploying booms. Alexandria and other regional swift water rescue teams operate regardless of the environment or jurisdictional boundary.

The Alexandria Fun with Friends group is organizing a trip to the Masonic Memorial in Old Town Alexandria. From the website:

The George Washington Masonic Memorial is more than a colossal memorial and museum. It is a tourist attraction and destination; research center and library; community center; performing arts center and concert hall; banquet and celebration site; and meeting site for local and countless visiting Masonic lodges and organizations. However, first and foremost, it is a memorial to honor and perpetuate the memory, character and virtues of the man who best exemplifies what Freemasons are and ought to be, Brother George Washington.

For the longest time, I had no idea that you could enter this landmark of the Alexandria skyline. Since then, I've toured the George Washington Masonic Memorial several times and each time the structure has revealed something new to me. If nothing else, the view from high atop Shooter's Hill is spectacular. If you've never been, I highly recommend this site whether you go with us or not. If you have been, come anyway and then join us for dinner.

As before, after the touring the museum, we'll stop at a nearby restaurant. Last time we went to an Old Town attraction we then caravaned over to Ted's Montana Grill (always a favorite of mine). The conversation and the company was at least as much fun as the trip. Ted's is nearby with fairly easy parking but if you have a better idea, drop me an email or make mention in your RSVP and we'll consider it.

There is no charge for the museum but a donation to the memorial's building fund is appreciated. RSVP and details on when the group is getting together are found here.

March 5th through March 8th 2009 in Tyson's Corner

The Alexandria Fun with Friends Group has several members in attendance. Contact me if you want to coordinate a group sojourn.

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The Alexandria House is located a few blocks from King St. on Madison St. in Old Town Alexandria between the waterfront and the Washington St. This towering landmark of a building boasts broad wrap-around balconies with views of the Capitol, National Airport, Old Town and the Blue Ridge Mountains. This condo complex is in a spectacular neighborhood, but to me anyway, the real appeal of the Alexandria House is the balconies and the views.

I have collected some snapshots to represent the views from these condominium balconies.

This is a view from the northeastern side of the building about 20 floors up. The view is over the north end of Alexandria toward the Blue Ridge Mountains. The high-rises of Arlington are easily visible to the naked eye but in this picture Arlington is just a few bumps near the horizon on the right.

In this unit the kitchen has a pass-through that allows the cook to look out to windows on three sides. In the distance one can see the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and the Potomac River.

The wrap-around balconies mean that even the bedrooms have balconies and tremendous views.

In this picture its obvious that Alexandria House is only a block or two from the waterfront. Down below one of Alexandria's many pleasure boats tools upriver toward Washington DC. Check these links for more views or information about the Alexandria House condos in Old Town Alexandria.

To search condo listings in Old Town Alexandria click here.

When you've picked out the house, townhouse or condo you want to make your own, it's time to write the offer. An offer is a written description of the terms under which you the buyer would purchase the subject property. If the seller accepts your terms the next step would be to proceed to closing and thus full ownership of the property. Although most realtors in Northern Virginia use the standard Northern Virginia Association of Realtors contract there are many possible contingencies, addendums and options that will alter the offer to make it specific to your situation.

One of the most common contingencies added to the offer is the "financing contingency". This contingency specifies that if the buyer cannot get financing then the deal is off and the earnest money is returned to the buyer without penalty.

Another matter that must be address in the offer is the down payment. One way that the down payment differs from the earnest money in that the down payment is paid at closing rather than at the time of the offer. The seller wants to know the buyer's down payment amount because it provides further further evidence of the buyer's qualifications to secure a mortgage.

The offer also describes the interest rate and some terms of the proposed loan. The rates and terms described in the offer are not an offer of credit from a lending institution and do not reflect the loan that the borrower will receive. Rather, the rates and terms are describe to provide a safeguard against any dramatic change in interest rates between when the offer is made and when the loan is closed. In other words if the rates double but the buyer is still approved for financing the buyer could cancel the offer because the terms exceed what he can tolerate financially.

Every purchase will have closing costs. Both buyers and sellers have expenses at closing. Buyers, especially first time buyers, are usually scraping for down payment and closing costs. The seller cannot help with down payment, but the seller can subsidized the buyer's closing costs. If so negotiated the seller can pay all or a portion of the buyer's taxes, origination fees or title insurance. This money comes directly from the seller's pocket so if buyers who need assistance can expect to pay a little higher price than those who do not need a subsidy.

Although the seller cannot help with down payment, the seller can offer some or all of the financing. The terms of the offer will describe the loan that the buyer expects to receive from the seller.

When we make the offer I can help advise you on what terms and conditions will best suit your unique circumstances and what terms are mostly likely to be acceptable to the seller.

The Waterford House is located in Arlington VA at the north end of Crystal City. Waterford House provides excellent access to Washington DC and the Pentagon as well as Arlington and Alexandria.

Waterford House's distinctive styling boast large curved balconies and units with plenty of windows to see planes coming and going down the Potomac around National Airport.

Waterford House proximity to the Shops of Crystal City and the Crystal City and Pentagon City metro make Waterford House a paragon of convenience.

Because we do business as Condo 1 Alexandria, I'm often asked: do you only work with condos?

The answer is of course: no. I work with all types of real estate in the Commonwealth of Virginia. But I do fill several niches and have expertise in a few specific areas that might be of interest to you.

Condo 1 Alexandria serves the condo market in Alexandria (mainly in the West End and Old Town), Crystal City, Pentagon City, Arlington, Fairfax County, and Kingstowne. Our focus these days is on buyers and landlords. As a buyer's agent we are well equipped to find the property that suits you needs and make the sale proceed smoothly and quickly. As property manager we take the hassle out of being a landlord. We of course have listings for sale but if the time isn't right to sell, we'll let you know and advise you of your best options.

Condo 1 Alexandria also does business as Will Nesbitt Realty LLC. In the capacity as Will Nesbitt Realty, I focus on homes and properties near our offices and my home. I have particularly good insight in Alexandria especially around Bucknell and Belle Haven, but also in Kingstowne and Old Town. These neighborhoods have condos, but they also have single family homes and town houses.

If you have questions or if I can be of service, please don't hesitate to contact me! If you need help finding properties please help yourself to our fast and free database of properties that are currently on the market. The number of listings that are available can sometimes be overwhelming, so feel free to contact me if you'd like for us to do the search.