When looking to buy or rent a home, a licensed real estate agent provides a variety of unique skills and connections to ensure you get a much better home.

1. First and foremost a Realtor brings security.  Everyone knows what they want in a home, but very few people realize the litany of potential pitfals that can ruin your new nest.
2. Second, a Realtor brings diversity.  Unless you're going to limit your selection to public listings, and kiss good-bye some of the best homes in the market, then you need a Realtor to grant you access.
3. Third, a Realtor brings you economy.  Whether buying or selling no-one has access to market information to the degree a Realtor does.  This ensures that you're not overspending on your new home, or underselling your old one.
4. Finally, a Realtor brings you peace of mind.  The process of finding a new home, or someone to buy or rent your existing home can be daunting.  Challenges from financing, to proper title transfer, to negotiating your price require attention to detail, and can be very stressful, and time consuming if not handled properly. 

To learn more about how a licensed real estate agent can assist you contact us.

About the Author ---  Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo1 of Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

For all the virtues Northern Virginia enjoys, traffic is not one of them.  Crystal City in Arlington is close to all the major employment/transportation centers.  Crystal City in Arlington Virginia is adjacent to The Pentagon and right across the river from downtown Washington DC.  Crystal City in Arlington County has some of the best schools in the country.  Crystal City has 2 Metro subway stops, a regional VRE train station and of course Reagan National Airport.  Crystal City in Arlington has been fully developed with a mix of class A office space and residential housing--side by side. Apartments, condos and single family homes are all available in Crystal City.

One such condo is Crystal Square located at 1300 Crystal Drive in Crystal City Arlington.  One particular unit even has a pool side ground level patio.  This unit has more than 2100 square feet of living space and a jacuzzi master bath. 

Arlington County will soon break ground on a major recreation center at the north end of Crystal City making Crystal City even more desirable.  Investing in property in Crystal City is a safe investment that can be enjoyed without a long commute.

About the Author --- Brian Brooks is an experienced agent for Condo 1 Alexandria. He specializes in Northern Virginia inside the Beltway.

Mount Vernon Rec Center

The Mount Vernon Recreation Center is a county run facility with a multitude of activities and services including a fully equipped weight room and work-out facilities. In addition to the Mount Vernon Rec Center, the county provides indoor pools at nearby Lee District Rec Center and George Washington Rec Center. For a complete list of area pools and swimming related activities, check the Alexandria Masters Swim club.

The Rec Center has year round ice skating and ice hockey.

There is a heated indoor pool, sauna, and diving platforms.

Eton Square condominiums are part of Kingstowne in Franconia / Alexandria VA. Eton Square has an Alexandria postal address, but is located in Fairfax County Virginia. Eton Square is conveniently located near the shops of Kingstowne Towne Centre at Kingstowne Boulevard. Eton Square straddles Kingstowne Village Parkway with a north and south "campus" located on either side of this broad avenue / artery of Kingstowne.

Eton Square has garden-style condos, which means that there are less than 4 floors in each building and there is no elevator. The stairs here are open to the elements. Open stairs and no elevators mean reduced condo fees as compared to other locations in Northern Virginia. The exteriors are a pleasing mix of brick and siding with interesting architectural details like round-windows, open archways and many dormers. Like many garden-style condos in the Kingstowne vicinity, the condos at Eton Square are spacious.

Of note is the top floor at Eton Square. Top floor condos here have a two-level design with a dramatic loft-style overlook to the living room. To check prices, see a map and more pictures of units that are actually for sale, click Eton Square condos.

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.

Founder's Walk is located just outside the Beltway near Van Dorn Metro. Although it has an Alexandria postal address it is in Fairfax County. The units at Founder's Walk are relatively large compared to similarly priced units in the Alexandria area. These garden-style condos are recently built and have the types of upgrades that folks have come to expect such as a fireplace in the unit or hardwood floors in the dining area. As you can see these condos have plenty of windows and light. The neighborhood is pleasant and quiet, despite being very close to the Capital Beltway. There is no charge for parking.

Jennie Dean Park is part of the Arlington County Parks system. Jennie Dean Park is located near Shirlington at 3630 27th St. S. Arlington, VA 22206. A stream runs through the park. The park has restrooms open year round and two water fountains. In addition to picnic tables, Jennie Dean Park offers a small picnic shelter which may be reserved for events. Charcoal grills support the shelter and picnic tables.

For activities and play the park has a school-age playground, two baseball fields, two tennis courts and a basketball court. The baseball fields include one adult field available by permit only with lights, dirt infield, bleachers and a dugout; as well as one youth field (also available by permit only) with lights, dirt infield, bleachers and a dugout. The tennis courts and basketball courts are lighted. There is also a large open green space for sports without a permit.

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 received this email:

Will,

What all kinds of assistance do you provide? Do you check the background and credit of the perspective renter? If work needs to be done what happens? I know that the carpets will need to be cleaned before the renters would move into the place. Does one have to use your people to do any work necessary? What happens if I were to need a new renter, would your service handle that too? I have never used a service such as yours before, so I have a lot of questions.

Thanks for your help.

Sincerely,
(name withheld)

Like most property managers, our services to the landlord are broken into two different jobs. The first task that landlords ask us to perform is often the task of finding a renter. To describe, explain and memorialize how we find your renter, write and sign a listing agreement.

The listing agreement is not unlike the listing agreement a homeowner signs when he or she sells a house. The listing agreement is what lets us put a lockbox on the door. We need a listing agreement to put the property in the MLS (multiple listing service).

The listing agreement describes the terms and conditions under which we get paid. We only get paid if and when we find a renter. Most agencies charge between one-half to a full month's rent to get this service done. If our client is using our property management services, we let the client set the fee, but we take the time to explain how agents get paid.

Like all listing agreements, the listing agreement will set a term or time period and then expires. In the past few years I can't remember having an expired listing agreement as we push hard to rent quickly.

Once Condo 1 Alexandria or another agency finds a prospective tenant, we take an application and proof of income. We then pull a background check to make determine a recommendation regarding the applicant. If the tenant can afford the property and has a good payment history give a positive recommendation. If the tenant has a questionable credit history or if the tenant can't afford the property we advise the landlord that we have an application but do not recommend proceeding with a lease. In some cases, we can provide solutions to guard the landlord against potentially problematic tenants, but still find a way to move forward with the applicant.

After we are settled on a tenant, we prepare a lease and have it signed by the landlord and tenant. This is the end of our duties as a listing agent.

But that's when our duties as a property manager begin. As a property manager, we collect the rents and make payments to the landlord as described in the property management agreement. From time to time, we respond to service calls from the tenant, dispatching appropriate handymen, electricians, plumbers, etc. to solve the problem. When this happens, we deduct the cost of these services from the rent collected and pay the landlord the remainder. From time to time we make inspections of the property and we occasionally recommend maintenance or upgrades.

Unlike some property managers, we only collect fees when the property is occupied. No rent equals no charge.

If the property needs to be prepared prior to leasing, we can and will make some efforts to put the property in order. Some properties need a little clean-up to prepare for market. We don't charge for managing a clean-up. We simply pass the cost without mark-up back to the landlord. We will take some deposits from the landlord as required to take care of this clean-up.

Some properties need something more than a clean-up. When a property needs a renovation, we may charge a fee to manage construction and clean-up to put the place in order.

Eventually the renter moves out and we'll need a new renter. At that point, we'll sign a new listing agreement and start the process again.

We manage houses, townhouses and condominiums. We bring a special expertise to condo management because we know how condos operate, but we don't limit our business to condos.

It's hard to describe everything we do in a format like this, but that's what we do in a nutshell. There are additional services and limitations I'll describe when we go through the agreements, but this should be enough to get you started. 

EOS-21 is so named for the 21 buildings that are on the EOS property. Of these 21 buildings 6 are condominiums and the remainder are apartments. EOS-21 is in West End Alexandria not far from Landmark Mall between Van Dorn and Duke St. EOS-21 has easy access to Old Town Alexandria and is close to both the Beltway (I-495) and I-395.

EOS-21 is one of the most affordable communities inside the Beltway, but that doesn't mean you need to compromise on amenities. EOS-21 residents enjoy

• 2 swimming pools
• complimentary shuttle to and from Van Dorn Metro
• fitness center
• wellness classes
• sand volleyball
• business center
• poker room
• library
• tennis courts
• movie theatre
• convenience store/deli

Parking is available at no extra charge. In some units the washer and dryer are in the unit. In some units the washer and dryer is in the building. EOS-21 offers garden-style condos and apartments with several floorplans and styles. 

Click EOS-21 for listings and to see what's for sale.

This EOS unit is a 2 bedroom 2 bath and will rent for $1349 monthly. Condo fees and rents at EOS-21 include the cost of

• gas
• water
• sewer
• garbage
  
• heating/cooling
• amenities
• landscaping, and
  
• parking.
  

The units were refurbished during the condominium conversion.

 There's plenty to see around the grounds.

You'll find that EOS-21 is a well-maintained property with lots of visual interest in the landscaping.

This is a small portion of the fitness room. TV's, cardio-vascular equipment and more are found facing the window.

The club room has TV's, billiards and a lounge for guests.

This is one of the communities two pools.

The EOS community also has a convenience store and dry cleaner.

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.

Designed by renowned architect Charles M. Goodman and developed by Robert Davenport in the late forties, Hollin Hills brought contemporary style to home construction in Northern Virginia.

The community of houses with large expanses of glass, sleek lines, and unusual siting has earned national recognition from the early fifties to the present.

Landscape designs for Hollin Hills homes were prepared by landscape architects Lou Bernard Voigt, Dan Kiley and Eric Paepcke to reflect the belief that interior spaces should flow into exteriors, and that grounds of one home should merge with the next, all in a park-like setting. These original concepts are still visible in the look of the neighborhood as a whole and in the individual homes.

Hollin Hills has won many awards, beginning with the Revere Quality House award from the Southwest Research Institute in 1950 and including two 1982 Test of Time awards from the Virginia Society of the American Institute of Architects, for houses on Stafford Road. Hollin Hills also is on the Fairfax County, Virginia, Inventory of Historic Sites. Search here for Hollin Hills homes.

No picture can really do this neighborhood justice.
It must be seen first hand. Call today for arrange a visit to local homes for sale.

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.

The Royalton of Alexandria

The Royalton of Old Town Alexandria

The Royalton of Alexandria is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.  Steps away from the King Street Metro, Amtrak and the VRE. The Royalton condos are a commuters dream!  These high-ceiling units offer granite counters and stainless steel appliances.  The Royalton of Alexandria has a fitness room and underground parking.  The Royalton of Old Town Alexandria is conveniently located atop of the brand new Whole Foods. 

The Royalton of Alexandria is close to all the major employment and transportation centers--Washington, Arlington, Falls Church, Springfield, Crystal City.  The Royalton is located just a few miles away from Reagan National Airport. 

Contact Brian and ask about his "buy with me, move for free program." Click the Royalton for a look at prices and listings at the Royalton.

About the Author --- Brian Brooks is an experienced agent for Condo 1 Alexandria. He specializes in Northern Virginia inside the Beltway.

Crystal Park

Crystal Park is located in the heart of the Crystal City business district this unit provides sought after amenities-close in location, easy access to mass transit , and  Reagan Airport.   Crystal Park is across the street from the recently redeveloped restaurant and shopping areas, this west facing afternoon sunlight filled unit offers underground parking, gym, sauna, pool and 24/7 security/desk agent. 

Crystal Park condominiums are the perfect location for a frequently traveling executive or out of town executive needing an investment on-site residental unit.  Crystal Park condos are less than a mile from the Pentagon. Excellent schools and libraries nearby.  Crystal Park residents enjoy the ease of shopping at Pentagon City Mall. 

Crystal City and Crystal Park are just a a few miles north of the historic Old Town Alexandria area, or a few miles south of Arlington Cemetery.

Crystal Park offers free living at its best.

About the Author --- Brian Brooks is an experienced agent for Condo 1 Alexandria. He specializes in Northern Virginia inside the Beltway.

Your agent can help you:

• Prepare the property for sale.
• Help you determine its fair market value.
• List your property to help you reach buyers quickly and competitively.
• Assist in price negotiations with buyers. 
• Help complete your sales agreement and close the sale.

As a buyer you can expect many of the same services, tailored to your needs finding a condo, these include:

• Deciding on the benefits of renting vs. owning
• Preapproval for your mortgage
• Selecting the right location
• Finding and viewing properties
• Assessing a properties fair market value. 
• Assisting in price negotiations
• Completing purchase agreements and closing the sale.

About the Author
 Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

Buying your new house or condo involves a multitude of steps.  Having a real estate agent ensures that these steps go smoothly for you.  Having said that one of the most important aspects of your new home purchase is getting a loan secured.  Doing so in advance ensures benefits you in three ways:

1. You are searching for properties that will be within budget
2. Your offer carries extra weight because of your ready to buy status
3. The home buying process will go smoother and quicker through its final stages.

The value of these three together is quite great, and can make the difference between getting the home of your dreams and that one that "just got away".

About the Author
 Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

Watergate at Landmark is located in the West End of Alexandria between I-395 and I-495 (the Capital Beltway). In today's market the condos at Watergate offer a measure of luxury and a convenient location at a reasonable price.

One of the many amenities of the Watergate is the large resort style pool.

But when it rains or in the winter, there is still a nice place to take a dip at the Watergate. Although not as large as the outside pool, the indoor pool is none-the-less quite pleasant with plenty of room for taking laps.

The library is just one of the many rooms in the Landmark community center where residents can relax.

When you've finally picked out the condo, house or townhouse that interests you, it's time to write the offer. Together with proof of Earnest Money, and lender approval, I'll present the offer to the selling agent.

Presenting an offer is a little bit more involved than simply faxing paperwork to the listing agent and then waiting for a response. It is important to get the offer over as quickly as possible. Bargains (in any market) don't last long.  Then I call the listing agent to let them know the offer has been faxed. 

When appropriate, I follow up in the conversation by sharing appropriate details with the listing agent. For example:

I can give the selling agent some personal background about my clients and what they are looking for. I can explain why they are qualified to buy or how many homes my client has looked at. In some cases, it's appropriate to tell seller what the buyers appreciate about the home.

I sometimes provide the sellers with a comparative market analysis to show the sellers the rationale behind the offer we are making.

Of course, it's my job to explain and review all of the major details of the offer;

• contingent or non-contingent,
• inspections,
• date of closing, etc. 
• and of course, price. 

When necessary I discuss a brief timeline outlining the expected milestones between the offer and settlement.

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.

Just in from the Department of Housing and Urban Development:

DONOVAN ANNOUNCES RECOVERY ACT'S HOMEBUYER TAX CREDIT CAN IMMEDIATELY HELP THOUSANDS OF FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS TO BUY A HOME
FHA plan will stimulate new home sales and help stabilize housing market

WASHINGTON - Speaking to the National Association of Home Builders Spring Board of Directors Meeting, U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced that the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will allow homebuyers to apply the Obama Administration's new $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit toward the purchase costs of a FHA-insured home. Donovan said that today's action will help stabilize the nation's housing market by stimulating home sales across the country.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 offers homebuyers a tax credit of up to $8,000 for purchasing their first home. Families can only access this credit after filing their tax returns with the IRS. Today's announcement details FHA's rules allowing state Housing Finance Agencies and certain non-profits to 'monetize" up to the full amount of the tax credit (depending on the amount of the mortgage) so that borrowers can immediately apply the funds toward their down payments. Home buyers using FHA-approved lenders can apply the tax credit to their down payment in excess of 3.5 percent of appraised value or their closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. To read the FHA's new mortgagee letter, visit HUD's website.

"We believe this is a real win for everyone," said Donovan. "Today, the Obama Administration is taking another important step toward accelerating the recovery of the nation's housing market. Families will now be able to apply their anticipated tax credit toward their home purchase right away. At the same time we are putting safeguards in place to ensure that consumers will be protected from unscrupulous lenders. What we're doing today will not only help these families to purchase their first home but will present an enormous benefit for communities struggling to deal with an oversupply of housing."

Currently, borrowers applying for an FHA-insured mortgage are required to make a minimum 3.5 percent downpayment on the purchase of their home. Current law does not permit approved lenders to monetize the tax credit to meet the required 3.5 percent minimum down payment, but, under the terms of today's announcement, lenders can now monetize the tax credit for use as additional down payment, or for other closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. Buyers financing through state Housing Finance Agencies and certain non-profits will be able to use the tax credit for their downpayments via secondary financing provided by the HFA or non-profit. In addition to the borrower's own cash investment, FHA allows parents, employers and other governmental entities to contribute towards the downpayment. Today's action permits the first-time homebuyer's anticipated tax credit under the Recovery Act to be applied toward the family's home purchase right away. Unlike seller-funded down-payment assistance, which was a vehicle for abuse, this program will allow homebuyers to shop for the best home price and services using their anticipated tax credit.

According to estimates by the National Association of Home Builders, the Administration's homebuyer tax credit will stimulate 160,000 home sales across the nation - 101,000 of which will be first-time buyers who will receive the credit. Another 59,000 existing homeowners will be able to buy another home because a first-time buyer purchased their home. Given FHA's current market share, it's estimated that thousands of families will be able to purchase a home by allowing the anticipated tax credit to be applied toward their purchase together with an FHA-insured mortgage.

Homebuyers should beware of mortgage scams and carefully compare benefits and costs when seeking out tax credit monetization services. Programs will vary from organization to organization and borrowers should consider whether the services make sense for them, as well as what company offers the most suitable and affordable option.

For every FHA borrower who is assisted through the tax credit program, FHA will collect the name and employer identification number of the organization providing the service as well as associated fees and charges. FHA will use this information to track the business closely and will refer any questionable practices to the appropriate regulatory agencies, as necessary.

###

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to sustaining homeownership; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development and enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.

The Eisenhower Metro stop is located at 2400 Eisenhower Avenue. It is across the street from the Hoffman Town Center and entertainment complex. Eisenhower station is just inside the Capital Beltway (I-495) at the Telegraph Road exit. The Eisenhower Metro is served by the Yellow Line.

Eisenhower is a two platform station. Access to both platforms is provided to two escalators and an elevator. Bike parking is available with 10 bike racks and 6 lockers in the station.

The first train departs at 4:51 am Huntington and the last train departs at 12:37 am Huntington. Service became available to the public on December, 17, 1983. The REX bus provides service nearby at the corner of Swamp Fox Rd. and Eisenhower. Eisenhower is served by DASH buses 2, 6, & 7.

Metrorail fares are posted on the WMATA site. Fares are discounted for children and seniors.

The Eisenhower Metro serves the Carlyle District and is convenient for workers at businesses in and around the Hoffman Center. The Eisenhower Metro is also useful for many residents in the condos of the Carlyle District. For some residents, the Eisenhower Metro is more convenient than the King St. Metro.

The Eisenhower Metro is in the 22314 zip code, which is generally considered Old Town Alexandria, but there is very little that is "old" anywhere near this stop in the Carlyle District.  The Carlyle Towers and several other new structures dominate the skyline here. For more information about Carlyle Towers, or the condos of the Carlyle District, please contact Will Nesbitt of Condo 1 Alexandria at 703 765 0300.

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 stopped by the Watergate at Landmark this weekend. It was a rainy day, but the rain seemed bring out the colors so I snapped a few pictures. 

This is the putting green as seen from a balcony at the Watergate. 

And then a look back toward the pool and the community center. 

The unit itself was in near perfect condition. These pictures really don't do it justice. The putting green and pools are just some of the many amenities of the Watergate at Landmark. Among other things the Watergate features a 38,000-square foot, multi-purpose community center and an adjoining fitness center with

• heated pool,
• lap lanes,
• exercise, and
• sauna.

This community center has many ares of interest to residents:

• a library;
• card rooms;
• meeting rooms;
• media rooms;
• billiards and ping-pong; and
  
• resident-service desk.

Conveniences such as an ATM machine, a unisex hair salon, a sandwich-shop, and a convenience store also are on-site in the community center. In addition to the many amenities of the community center, residents can enjoy:

• Outdoor pool with trellis-covered whirlpool and waterfall
• Children's play area at the outdoor pool
• Gazebos and picnic areas
• Golf
• Measured track
• Courts for racquet sports
• A "Tot Lot" playground
• Volleyball
• Youth center

Condo fees are a little higher at the Watergate but when you figure that the fee in includes insurance, gas, trash, water, sewer, heating, cooling electricity and the many amenities of Watergate: it's well worth it.

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.

Leave your car behind?  I can help you live in Arlington, Alexandria or Falls Church--without owning a car. Outside the City of Washington DC, Arlington County has the highest number of Metro Subway stops in the Capital Region.

Many large employment centers--Roslyn, Courthouse, Clarendon, Crystal City, The Pentagon, Pentagon City and all of Falls Church City are on either the Yellow or Blue Line of the Metro system  These areas are also loaded with all kinds of residential properties--single family homes, townhouses and condos.   Properties of all different sizes and prices ranges are available for purchase of lease.

Want to get around? Try the healthy alternative--bikes!  Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax counties are  home to one of the nations most extensive system of bike trails.  Want to know a local secret--bikes are permitted on both the subway trains and Metro buses!  Bike lockers are available at most Metro stations

Still need are car from time to time?  Use Zip Car. Hundreds of cars are available at dozens of sites all around the area-Metro stops, shopping centers, the business district, restaurant areas, museums--even the airport. Here is another local secret--Zip Car parking spots are just about as convenient as handicapped parking.

Contact Brian Brooks at Condo 1 Alexandria to find just the right property for you and your family--but not your car!

Belle View is a residential condominium community on the Potomac River just outside Old Towne Alexandria Virginia. Belle View offers 1, 2 & 3 bedroom residences for sale or rent in a pet-friendly neighborhood that is a throw-back to a quieter time. 

For more information about Belle View condominiums please contact Condo 1 Alexandria, an independent real estate brokerage, committed to providing outstanding service and value to buyers and sellers. We specialize in condominiums and properties in and around Belle View, New Alexandria and Old Town. We are known for developing quality working relationships with our clientele; relationships based on respect, integrity, and trust.

Condo 1 Alexandria is proud to have developed beneficial relationships with lenders, inspectors, contractors, and a wide range of housing professionals. We pride ourselves on building a solid foundation for your home to rest upon. Whether you are purchasing, selling, or both...we ensure that you have the support you need to make to make sound decisions and receive the best deal possible. We go the extra mile for you!

If you need assistance, please contact Will Nesbitt. He will take the time to listen to your needs and dreams. Will works tirelessly to facilitate your goals without compromise. Will Nesbitt and Condo 1 Alexandria are committed to treating every client as if they are our #1 priority.

Whether you are buying, selling, or simply considering a move, we will be happy to speak with you.

We specialize in condominiums and the area surrounding Belle View!

Jones Point Park is owned by the National Park Service and it's 52-plus acres compise the largest open space in Old Town Alexandria VA. Jones Point is located on the Potomac River near the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in the southeast corner of Alexandria, Virginia. Jones Point is a nice place for a walk or picnic by the Potomac and is popular with Alexandria's bird watchers, dog owners and history buffs. In addition to open green space and river banks, Jones Point offers

• two large soccer fields,
• picnic areas with picnic tables,
• walking and biking trails,
• garden plots for rent,
• two fishing piers built over two old ship ramps,
• and a large ship dock north of the bridge along the river.

Although the National Park Service owns Jones Point Park, the Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities manages the park. The parks custodians strive to preserve and showcase the 9,000 years of human history evidenced at Jones Point. Recognizable touch-points like Jones Point Lighthouse from the middle of the 19th Century are found here along with artifacts from Native Americans and colonists from the early days of European settlement. During the first World War, Jones Point was an important shipbuilding site and remnants of that abandoned heritage are unearthed for visitors to see.

The survey stones placed here under the direction and guidance of George Washington after 1790 mark the original boundaries of the District of Columbia. The land which George Washington surveyed for the Federal City was within the capital boundaries for 45 years, from February 27, 1801 until September 7, 1846, when Alexandria was ceded back into Northern Virginia by Congress.

Jones Point Park is very accessible for residents of Old Town Alexandria, Ford's Landing, Porto Vecchio and Bearings South.

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.

Unlike moving to a single family home moving to a condo has different risks. Movers working in common areas need liability and workman's compensation insurance. Often, casual labor type movers do not have insurance--exposing the association to nearly unlimited risk from personal injury claims either from owners, tenants or the movers!

The only way to protect the condo association is to make sure each and every mover provides a Certificate of Insurance. Licensed legitamate moving companies provide these document frequently--they are provided by their insurance carrier free of charge. Associations, LLC's, Corporations and REIT's can be named as additional insured on the Certificate. It should take no more than a few hours for a professional moving company to provide this document.

As an experienced Realtor/mover I have years of first hand knowledge in this matter. Brooks Transfer can provide these documents protecting the owners and the condo association.

Brian Brooks is an experienced agent for Condo 1 Alexandria. He specializes in Northern Virginia inside the Beltway.

Alexandria Appliance question: A resident of Beauregard Station called to ask me about what happens with the 

Appliances that are not removable, that is, they are part of the plumbing, ventilation, or structure of the home transfer with the sale of your condo.  This would include central air, water heaters, dishwashers, and similar appliances.  However appliances that are removable such as refrigerators, window A/C units, microwaves, etc, belong to the seller, unless stipulated otherwise in your purchase agreement.

About the Author
 Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

• All amenities - clubhouse, conference center, residents' lounge, fitness center, sports court, media room, swimming pool and barbecue area
• Master insurance
• Water and sewer
• Common area utilities
• Common area indoor maintenance, including elevators, parking garage and amenity core
• Exterior maintenance, including snow and trash removal
• Full-time property manager
• Controlled access building
• Concierge service

The Midtowns are adjacent to the Huntington Metro and designed with your leisure and enjoyment in mind. Midtown Alexandria Station provides an exceptional selection of amenities. Midtown's wide range of conveniences and comforts allows you to relax, play, celebrate, unwind and even take care of business from home. Some of the benefits of life at the Midtowns include:

• Expansive swimming pool with waterfall and Jacuzzi
• Landscaped sundeck with tiki bar
• Outdoor grill area
• Sports club
• Concierge service
• Stylish clubroom with outdoor terrace and amazing city views
• Cyber cafe with wireless high-speed Internet access
• Guest suite
• 24-hour front desk
• Structured parking
• Controlled-access entry to building and garage
• Bicycle storage
• On-site storage available

Kingstowne is a planned community and one of my favorites in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Department of Zoning works directly with land developers to coordinate projects and regulate land development in and around the 12,000 acres that make up the Kingstowne community. There are several projects slated to complete the master plan for Kingstowne.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Defense is reorganizing military installations to adapt to changing circumstances under a plan called BRAC.   Between 14,000 to 19,000 jobs are slated for transfer to Fort Belvoir by September 2011.  This transition will impact transportation systems, the natural environment and the quality of life in the Alexandria near Kingstowne.  At least one community has proposed an amendment to the comprehensive plan to better serve the needs of BRAC.

Here are a few of the changes expected because of BRAC and adherence to the original plan for Kingstowne.

Kingstowne Towne Center

The Kingstowne Towne Center will remain true to the original master plan by constructing four office buildings at a site on the Kingstowne Village Parkway where parking pads are currently located.  Planners believe that additional office space make Kingstowne more vibrant and economically strong by attracting desirable retailers, restaurants, etc. 

Springfield Mall Revitalization

In addition to the Towne Center projects, the nearby Springfield Mall will become a mixed-use town center that will include retail shops, a hotel, residential buildings and office space.  The project will be phased in over the course of the next eight to ten years.

Hilltop Village Center

Wegmen's Grocery Store in Kingstowne? Perhaps soon. The Hilltop Sand and Gravel Company owns of 150 acres at the intersection of Beulah St and Telegraph Rd. They have proposed a complex of office, retail and residential uses.The project is to include recreation facilities: two soccer fields, a tot lot and parking.   

Regional Library/Lee Village at Silver Lake

Now under construction along Beulah Street near Manchester Lakes Boulevard, a regional library and mixed use housing development is expected to provide housing for the elderly and county essential professionals, such as teachers and nurses. 

Veteran's of Foreign Wars (VFW) Meeting Facility

Along Beulah, the VFW is building a two-story edifice with administrative offices, a bingo hall and as a meeting and recreational place for VFW members.

Question

I'm renting a condo in Alexandria, but I don't like the color.  Am I allowed to repaint it?

Answer

The best answer to this is to discuss it with your property manager or landlord.  In most cases, a property manager will allow you to paint your condo whatever colors you would like.  If your landlord agrees to the new color that may be the end of the discussion.  In a worst case scenario you will be expected to return it to the color it was originally.

If your property was built before 1978 there is a risk of lead based paint.  To learn more about how to protect yourself from this invisible danger read the EPA pamphlet on lead based paint.

Ben Fornshell is the newest member of the team at Condo 1 Alexandria and he is available to help you find your next residence in Alexandria and Northern VA

Units from the Fairfax County and Alexandria City Fire and Rescue Departments responded to a call yesterday from Belle View condominiums in New Alexandria VA. New Alexandria has an Alexandria postal address, but is actually part of Fairfax County.

Fire and rescue units from Fairfax County's nearby Sherwood Hall station arrived before units from the City of Alexandria. Fairfax County officials responded with fire trucks, an ambulance and police cruisers. Police blocked off westbound Belle View Boulevard in front of the Belle View Shopping Center to give rescuers room to work. By the time Alexandria responders arrived it appeared that Fairfax County had the problem well in hand.

By the time these pictures were taken the fire was under control and/or extinguished, but smoke and burnt plastic could still be smelled in the streets. Residents and witnesses said they believed the fire was from a second story unit and may have been a kitchen fire. At least 1 person was taken to the hospital for further examination, but there were no apparent injuries other than smoke inhalation.

The Incident Commander wrapped up with an after-action report and life soon returned to normal in Belle View.

Will Nesbitt is the Principal Broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and serves home buyers, sellers and landlords throughout Northern Virginia.

Carlyle Towers is located in the Carlyle District of Alexandria VA just a few blocks from the King St. and Eisenhower Metro Stations. Carlyle Towers offers upscale condominiums in a highly desirable location near Old Town Alexandria. Carlyle Towers is near the USPTO and is an easy commute to the Pentagon or Washington DC via the Yellow Line or Blue Line. The Carlyle District is home to many restaurants and the AMC Hoffman movie theaters. Nearby Old Town is home to even more restaurants and sites.

Carlye Towers has a parking garage for residents. Guests can find very short-term parking in the courtyard or on the streets of Alexandria VA. For prices and condos for sale at Carlyle Towers just click the link.

Here's a sneak peak inside of one of the coveted gems of Montebello and Alexandria VA. This is the place to live because this condo

• is within walking distance of the metro;
• enjoys all the benefits of Montebello's many amenities;
• has an jaw-dropping view of the city AND the Potomac;
• is more affordable than many condos offering much less.

The balcony has sweeping views of the Potomac south of Alexandria and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

The balcony also offers commanding views of the Carlyle District and Old Town Alexandria including the George Washington National Masonic Memorial.

It's difficult to tell from this picture, but seated at the desk in the den, one can easily see the Washington Monument and other landmarks in Washington DC.

That same den provides the perfect work-station for telecommuting or just browsing the web.

Light streams into the dining room in this unit.

The kitchen has more than enough room for a breakfast nook and the gourmet chef.

The bedroom is well served by a master bath and has a bedside TV for easy relaxing at the end of the day.

The Royalton is located at the intersection of Duke St. and Holland about a block and a half from the King St. Metro in Alexandria VA. These condominium residences are strategically located in the shadows of the George Washington Masonic Memorial where the Carlyle District meets Old Town. The Royalton is located in the same building as the Whole Foods Market, so it's sited at a paragon of convenience. The Carlyle District and Old Town in Alexandria VA are home to some of Northern Virginia's best restaurants.

Take a trip down the Yellow Line and it's easy to see why Old Town Alexandria is a tourist destination in and of itself. The Royalton is just two blocks from King Street and the trolley on King St. The trolley provides a free lift for all from the King St. Metro to the Potomac River. Passengers, day-trippers, local and tourists hop on and off every few blocks to check out shops and restaurants that line King St.

The south and west side of the Royalton fronts toward the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) and the many upscale and newer offices of the Carlyle District. But just a block or so south west of the Royalton is the Alexandria National Cemetery, an island of reflection and peace in the center of the bustling city of Alexandria VA. Alexandria is a city rich in history and the Royalton has easy access to the touch-points of American history. The Royalton is just a few blocks from the African American Heritage Park and almost the same distance from a memorial dedicated to fallen Confederate soldiers.

The Royalton condominiums are new and the units have all the amenities and upgrades one might expect in a newer condo: hardwoods, granite, stainless steel in just the right places. To see what's currently for sale at the Royalton, just click the link.

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.

One of the busiest intersections in Old Town Alexandria VA occurs where Prince St. crosses Washington St. This intersection is dominated by a memorial of the U.S. Civil War. Over the years, and on several occasions, drivers have crashed their vehicles into the statue. As a result some folks filed petitions to have the memorial moved. But the statue has not moved and remains a fixture in Alexandria.

I doubt the statue ever will be moved because of the historical significance of the statue's location. In 1861, at the place where the statue now stands, the sons and fathers, brothers and men of Alexandria gathered to pick up arms against the Union. After the Civil War, the surviving veterans formed a chapter of the United Confederate Veterans. Together members of the organization commissioned a memorial for their fallen comrades. The statue's design depicts an unarmed Confederate soldier at Appomattox. The soldier's head is bowed as he observes the Confederate surrender. The statue was dedicated on May 24th, 1889.

The George Washington Parkway is one in the same with Washington St. as the Parkway passes through Old Town, and thus the Parkway, and some of Old Town's heaviest traffic, passes the statue. As originally planned, the Confederate Statue was surrounded by a fence and ornamental gas lamps, but by 1923, motor vehicles and electric lights caused a change in design. The traffic continue to increase on South Washington Street and 1932 when construction of the Parkway was completed, the grounds surrounding the statue were paved over. The pictures below depict the statue as it looked prior to the completion of the GW Parkway at a time when motor vehicles were still relatively uncommon.

Unbelievable Belle View value!  Only $1395 mothly and the rent includes gas, trash, water and sewer!  Hardwood floors, state of the art kitchen and beautiful court yard.

Wilton House is located across the street from the Dunn Loring / Merrifield Metro in Fairfax County near I-66 and Gallows Road. This building is richly appointed and so new it still gleams.

If you're looking for a place where you can walk to the metro, then you may want to consider Wilton House or Westbriar.

The billiard room, party room and business center at Wilton House are all nicely equipped. There is a rooftop pool for your summertime enjoyment.

The view from the roof is commanding.

From Wilton House you can see the Westbriar. Westbriar is similarly new, but offers garden-style condos instead of a high-rise. To see what's for sale at Wilton House or Westbriar just click the link. That page has maps, prices, availability, square footage and more.The Wilton House is located at:

2726 GALLOWS RD
VIENNA, VA 22180

Lee District RECenter off Telegraph Road near Kingstowne and Rose Hill in Franconia Virginia is sited on a 193 acre park. The park at "Lee District" has one soccer field with two overlay T-Ball fields. In addition, two football fields have overlay softball fields. There are

• four outdoor basketball courts;
• an amphitheater;
• four picnic areas (one sheltered);
• horseshoe pits;
• a sand volleyball court;
• a playground and tot lot;
• four lighted tennis courts with a tennis practice wall;
• walking trails;
• a carrousel;
• and the RECenter itself.

The REC is has nearly 84,000 square feet of recreational facilities where you'll find a natatorium (indoor pools), a gym and a fitness center.

The focus of the natatorium is a heated 50-meter pool with spectator seating . The pool has a superslide and three diving boards. The natatorium also provides the public with spa, locker rooms, family changing room, saunas, and showers and an outdoor sun deck and grassed sunbathing area.

Like the pool, the gym is most usually open to the public. The gymasium is 20,400 sqft of hardwood with one regulation size basketball court that can be converted into two smaller courts, or two volleyball courts. RECenter has electronic scoreboards, spectator seating, boxing equipment, volleyball nets and a three-lane, tenth-mile indoor running track.

If you need a work out, Lee District has it all. The fitness center has a wide selection of cardiovascular equipment, free-weights, work-out machines and a stretching area.

The RECenter also contains racquetball/wallyball courts, two mirrored dance/fitness rooms, three multi-purpose rooms, a mezzanine, and preschool.

Lee District RECenter
6601 Telegraph Road
Franconia, Virginia
703-922-9841

Directions: Lee District RECenter may be reached by taking Beltway Exit 176A which is Telegraph Road south, two and one-half miles to the park entrance on the left.

The RECenter is open to all residents of Fairfax County. Non-residents pay higher fees.

Founder's Hill loops around several condos such as Founder's Walk and the Sycamores at Van Dorn. This community of condos are all fairly new and very nice on the inside.

It's pretty common to find fireplaces and nice balconies in this community.

There are plenty of trees and greenery. The neighborhood itself is fairly quiet.

If you're looking for a 2 bedroom 2 bath condo that doesn't scrimp on space or architectural detail you'll be pleased in this neighborhood.

The parking is generous compared to many homes in and near Franconia or Kingstowne.

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.

Founders Walk is located just outside the Beltway off Van Dorn via Oakwood. It's close enough for a long walk to the Van Dorn Metro and has great access for commuters headed to the Beltway or Alexandria. The neighborhood is quiet and well-maintained surrounded by new and nearly new condos.

These condos are very nicely sized. You won't find yourself making a compromise on size at Founder's Hill. With newer kitchens and appliances these are very nice condominium homes.

The parking is generous compared to many homes in and near Franconia or Kingstowne.

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.

Knowing the problems of short-sales, I have developed a strategy to avoid some of the worst of the pitfalls.

If you're in a hurry don't even consider a short-sale. Short-sales work best for investors who have no emotional attachment to a property. Short-sales work well for investors who won't need to live in the home. Short-sales don't work well for home-buyers who are on a schedule.

If there are multiple offers on a property, walk away. If you make an offer on a property with multiple offers there are only two possible outcomes:

1. You waste your time pumping up the price for someone else;
2. You paid more than anyone else. If you paid more than anyone else, you didn't get a bargain.  If you paid retail for a short-sale, you paid too much.

Find out if there are multiple offers or worse yet contracts before you even look at the property. It's maddening and I wish the associations would do something but too many properties that are listed as "active" aren't really active.  There is no sense looking at something that isn't for sale.

Walk away from unethical, unprofessional agents, as these are the agents who are most likely to sanction last minute contract adjustments that cost you money.  Here are some clues you'll find in the listing that might indicate that the agent is unethical or ignorant:

• The remarks contain very basic English spelling and grammatical errors.
• The remarks solicit a specific title company. Agents and brokers don't make money off title companies. It's against the law for us to make money from title companies. It is inappropriate for us to solicit a particular title company.
• The remarks talk about agent commission. It is inappropriate for an agent to talk to the general public about what we make.  I could care less if you know what I make, but if an agent puts commission notes in the remarks the agent clearly is ignorant or unethical.
• As a member of the buying public you cannot see the commission, but your agent can see what the stated commission is. If the commission is listed as 50% or 50/50, then you're probably headed for trouble.  MLS rules require that the seller state his commission when offering the property for sale.  An agent who sanctions flexible terms is an agent who believes in the idea of flexible contracts.  The very reason for a contract is to establish the terms: not to leave the terms open so that one party can change them at the last minute. 

What can we do as agents?  I now report every bogus listing to Compliance. Every single property listed as active that is not active, I send to MRIS.  Every single title solicitation: I report to compliance. Every flexible commission I report to Compliance. 

It's a royal pain to complain and report, but I take the time to do this because I take serious my duty to the public.  I really wish an authority figure would take the time to clean-up the mess, but until then I will do the best I can with what I am given.

Will Nesbitt is the Principal Broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and serves home buyers, sellers and landlords throughout Northern Virginia.

Here are some of the many pitfalls of a short-sale.

Time to close

Short-sales take a long time to close. Although lenders are getting better in short-sales, they are notorious for making slow decisions when negotiating. I had a client last year who agreed to pay cash and purchase a short-sale in 3 days.  The seller accepted the offer but the lender took 4 months to agree to the offer. When buying a short sale, you have to act quickly. After you act quickly, you often have to wait a long time. 

Multiple offers

Short-sales often involve competitive buying. That is to say, there are multiple offers on the property. Despite what you may have heard about this being a buyers' market, there are ALWAYS buyers who are interested in something for nothing. In addition the Northern Virginia economy has not been impacted the way places like Detroit affected by the recent economic news. In Alexandria, in Arlington and anywhere near the metro, there are many folks who want to buy homes. Homes that are nicely priced, in good condition and in good locations are selling quickly. 

The property isn't available

Fully two-thirds (maybe more) of the short-sales listed for sale right now ... ARE NOT AVAILABLE. This is perhaps the most maddening part of short-sales as a considerable portion of my day is spent sorting through properties that are listed as ACTIVE in the MLS but they are in fact not on the market. Why are these properties listed for sale when they are active?

The simple and sad answer is that many agents who are selling short-sale properties don't understand there aren't any special rules for short-sales. If a property is offered for sale, the agent has a duty to the public in addition to his/her duty to his client. His duty to the public and Fair Housing Laws require that he promptly present any offers to purchase to his client. If the client agrees to the offer, but the caveat that the contract must be approved by the lender, that contract should be listed in the MLS as under contract with a kick-out. Most agents these days leave the property as active, wasting the time of buyers and agents everywhere. 

Often, a selling agent continues to list the property as active because it is not uncommon for a short-sale buyer to back-out after the purchaser finds out just how much hell they'll have to suffer to get a bargain.  The selling agent might not be aware that listing this property as active in the MLS is unethical, but the selling agent certainly does not care if you waste your time trying to buy a property that has already sold.

The unethical selling agent wants to continue to market the property even though the property is under contract.  This way the selling agent can get a couple of back-up offers in case the first contract blows up.

The stick-up

The last and worst part of a short-sale is what I've come to call "the stick-up".  The "hold-up" occurs when the seller changes the terms of the deal at the final hour. I'll call it a "stick-up" or "hold-up" because I find this selling tactic contemptible, unethical and a form of stealing. There are no guns involved, but the net effect of the change is not much different from a stick-up or a hold-up.

The stick-up occurs come after the buyer has invested a lot of time and effort negotiating the deal. The change is simple: when you get to the final hour, the buyer finds out that the property costs more than what agreed upon. These changes come after the buyer has invested money in inspections and appraisals. These changes come after the buyer has given notice that he/she is moving or after the buyer has sold his existing home.

Not long ago, I was only the phone with an agent who was clearly very experienced selling short sales. The terms of the deal changed at the final hour to require an additional sum of money from the buyer: a sum of the buyer simply did not have. When I asked her by what rights she thought the deal could be changed, she told me with a straight-face: "This is a short sale. Short sales are different."

She informed me that she had sent me an email saying the price had changed after the deal was done. I told her that she could send me all the emails she wanted, that doesn't give you the power to change a signed contract. She seemed truly baffled about my stance.

The contract stated that the contract had to be approved by the lender. And, the lender had approved the contract.  But now, the lender had changed their approval. This agent, well-experience with selling short-sales, thought that was standard practice, and she thought the bank was acting in good faith.

We ended up with a happy ending for the buyer, but there was a lot of drama and tears and fighting before it closed. I still get a knot in my stomach when I think back at that one.

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.

A short-sale occurs when the individual selling the property is selling the property for less than what they owe for the property. This means that after the seller agrees to the price, the lender must also agree to the price. Despite what anyone might try to tell you, that's the only difference between a short-sale and a normal sale. 

Unfortunately, there are many selling agents who work with the notion that there is a different set of rules for short-sales. These misguided agents are souring the market for everyone. (See Pitfalls of a Short Sale for more information.)

In Northern Virginia, below a certain price-point nearly half of the properties for sale are short-sales. In some neighborhoods, more than a third of the properties for sale are short-sales. So, short-sales are almost unavoidable. If you are considering purchasing a short-sale, you should learn more about the pitfalls and drama associated with short-sales and deal with an agent who has experience sorting through these complicated matters. Check here for tips for buying a short-sale.

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.