Located just south of Fort Belvoir, Gunston Cove has ready access to Interstate 95, the Virginia Railway Express, and with its newly completed homes offer a rare chance at that zero mileage home.  With two car garages, a fireplace, and luxuriously open floor plans you can easily feel at home in this new community.  These new homes in Lorton range between 2400 and 3200 square feet. Gunston Cove homes are listing starting in the upper 400s.

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.

The Condominiums at Carlyle Square are located in the Carlyle District of Alexandria, Virginia. Carlyle Square is long walk and a short drive to the Potomac waterfront in Old Town Alexandria. Carlyle Square is inside I-495 (the Beltway) with easy access to major commuter routes. Carlyle Square is a short distance to both the King Street Metro stop (blue and yellow lines) and Amtrak at Alexandria's Union Station.

The courtyard at Carlyle Square is beautifully landscaped. Parking is tough in this neighborhood, but not for residents of Carlyle Square. Garage parking is available. The community is pet friendly. There is a concierge at the front desk.

Carlyle Square's 145 units feature light-filled upscale interiors ranging from studios to 2 bedrooms with a den.  Kitchens are Carlyle Square are state-of-the-art boasting stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, custom maple cabinets. The rest of the living space is equally nice with hardwood floors and unique lighting in the living and dining areas. The bathrooms at Carlyle Square were constructed with Kohler fixtures and porcelain tiles.  Amenities include an outdoor pool and fitness center, but the pool and fitness center require an additional fee.

For a map of Carlyle Square and listings of homes currently for sale at Carlyle Square, click Carlyle Square.

Rose Hill is situated along Franconia Drive west of Richmond Highway.  Rose Hill is situated close enough to commute to DC, but unlike other real estate this close to the city it remains a suburb in layout and feel.  Parking is unrestricted and ample, with wide streets and easy access.  With improvements to the Telegraph Rd intersection with the beltway there are now two excellent and easy ways to get to the Beltway.

Real estate values in the Rose Hill area are already showing signs of growth making this both an excellent place for a new home, and for an investment. Click Rose Hill for a map of the area that shows homes for sale and area prices. 

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.

Cameron Station is located just off Duke St. in Alexandria VA adjacent to Ben Brenman Park and near Holmes Run Park. The Cameron Station community has single family homes, townhomes and condominiums. The architectural style of Cameron Station calls to mind nearby Old Town and the historic 18th and 19th century buildings of that part of the city. At the same time Cameron Station is planned to function like an old-fashioned Norman Rockwell small town. The hallmarks of this community are broad avenues lined brick sidewalks, trees and colonial street lamps. Cameron Station has many assorted patches of greenery called "pocket parks".

Cameron Station's townhomes are stately and impressive.

The condos of Cameron Station include Carlton Place, Condominiums of Cameron Station Blvd, Main Street, Oakland Hall, Residences at Cameron Station and Woodland Hall.

There is rarely any traffic in Cameron Station.

Cameron Station has several neighborhood shops and markets. For a closer look at Cameron Station check Cameron Station Info or Cameron Station dot com.

For a map of Cameron Station and listings of homes for sale at Cameron Station, click Cameron Station listings.

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

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

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

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

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

Union Station in Alexandria VA is a historic train station located between King and Duke Streets at the foot of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial. The station is within site of the USPTO and nearby Carlyle District. The station backs up against the King St. Metro, making it an excellent transfer point for riders of the VRE (Virginia Railway Express). Both Amtrak and VRE stop at the station and DASH and Metrobus lines stop at the King St. Station.

Alexandria's Union Station shares a name with Union Station in nearby Washington DC. Locals usually refer to the station in Washington as Union Station and the station in Alexandria as Alexandria Station. Both stations were so-named because at one time they united several lines/companies. The Amtrak code is for this station is ALX.

The terminal itself was built in 1905 in the Federal Revival style. Although it has been renovated and improved the original 1905 terminal is still in use. The memorial before the terminal is dedicate to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Alexandria Union Station
110 Callahan Dr.
Alexandria VA 22314

The Representative Condominium is about an 8 minute walk from both the Yellow and Blue Metro Lines. It was built in 1976 and has 12 floors with a total of 206 units.

The balconies provide views of Rosslyn, Crystal City, Fort Meyer and other parts of Arlington. The back side of the building has excellent views of the Pentagon, the Potomac and the landmarks of Washington D.C.

These luxury condos are supported by street and surface parking as well as three levels of garage parking. Each floor has a laundry room and there are no fees to use the laundry.

There is a pool behind the building. The building has an excellent party room / meeting room facility. Each unit has supplemental storage space.

This week I was in a condo selling for over a million dollars.  It was a beautiful condominium home with excellent views, a state of the art kitchen and all the upgrades one might expect ... except the unit didn't have a washer and dryer.

Because my office is in River Towers, and we also serve Belle View, I often confront the question of a washer and dryer in the unit. (Neither River Towers nor Belle View have laundry in the unit.) I've talked to the older residents of River Towers about this and surprisingly many of them resist the idea of putting laundry in the unit. They like their laundry-rooms right where they are---thank you very much.

This might seem baffling to some of the younger generation, but laundry rooms have a number of distinct advantages:

• community --- You get to know your neighbors in the laundry room. This creates a sense of community and you know who belongs in the secured areas and who is a stranger.
• maintenance --- You don't have to worry about buying a new washer when the old one breaks down. More importantly you don't have to worry about your personal laundry flooding a neighbor's condo.
• square footage --- Laundry takes up space. You have more space in your unit if you have a community laundry room
• more washers --- Many folks like to wait and do an entire week of laundry at one time. If you have a laundry room you're not limited to one small washer. You have many washers available.

In a luxury community, most people don't do their own laundry anyway, so they don't care if the laundry is outside the unit. My tip to folks who are shopping for homes in Northern Virginia: don't box yourself in. If you won't consider a unit with a laundry room, you're walking past some of the best neighborhoods in Northern VA.

When you're shopping for a home, how do you price a view? The view above is from a balcony at the Representative overlooking Pentagon City in Arlington County. Does this view make this condominium home more valuable? If so, how much more valuable?

Like the Representative, Montebello sits atop the ridge overlooking the Potomac. Much of the best property in Northern VA is found on this ridge, because the elevation provides excellent vistas of the Potomac and the city.

The Alexandria House is not on the ridge, but down by the Potomac and surrounded by the smaller structures of Old Town Alexandria. Its balconies provide great views of the city and the river.

Who's to say what a great view is anyway? Some people like the city view. Some folks prefer a nature view. Some folks like the monuments. And others could care less about the view.

For myself, I never judge a view by standing at a window. Because when you live in a home, you don't stand at the window. You pass through rooms and halls on the way to do life's errands. I judge a view from the center of the room, or when seated at the couch. But in the end, it's all subjective. A view costs more, on that we all agree. But the value of a view is only known when the price a buyer will pay intersects with the amount a seller will accept.

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.

The Representative is located where Arlington Ridge Road terminates. The road here makes a hairpin-turn on a promintory overlooking I-395, Crystal City, Arlington, the Pentagon and Washington DC. This location gives the Representative superb views of the Potomac and Northern Virginia and put the Representative near the heart of the action, and at the same time a little off the beaten track.

In the summer the trees and foliage fill the view with greenery and add to the charm of the Representative. If you've never seen the Representative, you need to put it on your list if you're shopping near Crystal City, Fort Meyer, Rosslyn and Pentagon City.

The lobby is enormous, covered in marble appointed in grand style.

The building's unique architecture and floor plans provide many interesting curves and corners. Click The Representative for a list of homes for sale and a map of the area.

Situated just off of the George Washington Parkway the Marina Towers are right next to Reagan National Airport and in the north end of Olde Towne Alexandria.  With a fantastic view of the river the Marina Towers is blessed with some great amenities:

1. Indoor Gym
2. Outdoor pool
3. Verandas by the river
4. Great access to the George Washington Bike Path
5. All utilities included
6. Ample parking for residents and guests
   

Want to learn more about Marina Towers and other real estate in Northern Virginia? Click Marina Towers to see a map and what's for sale now.

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.

301 N. Beauregard Alexandria, VA (posted 8/24/09)

Rent includes most utilities. Conveniently located near Landmark Mall and I-395 with easy access to DC, Arlington, Tyson's Corner and more.

1BR/1BA Condo / $1099/month Bedrooms -- 1 Bathrooms --- 1 full, 0 partial Sq Footage --- 785 (big!) Parking --- 1 assigned plus visitor Pet Policy --- Cats, dogs allowed on case by case basis Deposit --- 1 month rent

Click photo for more pictures & availability.

DESCRIPTION

• Nicely maintained condo ready to go.
  
• Balcony with great view
  

RENTAL FEATURES

• Air conditioning
• Central heat
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven
• Laundry area - inside
• Swimming pool
• High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Guest parking
• Clubhouse
• Laundry on-site
• Storage space(s)
• Fitness center
• Swimming pool(s)

Contact us for more information.

The Representative condo community is located at 1101 Arlington Ridge Road in Arlington VA. The Representative overlooks Pentagon Row, the Pentagon and Crystal City. It features a unique architectural style that mixes angles and curves to present interesting angles and shadows.

One of the features that I find intriguing at the Representative is this custom wood trim. The trim is a solid wood and features a tooled pattern that is much more difficult to create than the standard milled pattern. In the picture below this trim is used as a base with a solid ogee trim above and below the featured trim. The base doesn't actually touch the floor but rather, it caps a carpeted base, providing a one-of-a-kind style that is impressive and appealing.

As you can see this trim was carried over onto all the entry doors. The doors have a matching wood stain and the handles of the doors are also solid wood. The units themselves do not disappoint. For those who can afford the price tag, the Representative offers one of the premier residences in Northern VA.

The Air Force Memorial is sited on a promontory overlooking Washington D.C., Arlington VA and between them, the Potomac River. The Memorial's spires measure 270 feet. These spires tower above the Pentagon, Rosslyn and Crystal City. The Memorial was formally dedicated on October 14, 2006. The Memorial remains dedicated to the United States Air Force service members and the Heritage Organizations of the USAF.

The design of the Memorial intends to evoke a modern image of flight by jet and space vehicles, but yet remembers the pioneers of flight who came before. The three spires of the Monument represent the three core values of the US Air Force: Integrity first, Service before self, and Excellence in all we do. It is interesting to note that the spires are different heights and asymmetrical giving the Memorial a dynamic quality that offers different views from every angle. Although the Air Force Memorial is visible all over town, one of the best views is from Arlington Ridge. At the end of Arlington Ridge Road, the Representative overlooks much of the same vistas as the Memorial.

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.

The Sentinel of Landmark stands guard in Alexandria's West End at 6300 Stevenson Avenue Alexandria, VA. You can reach the condo management at (703) 823-1951. The Sentinel is located directly across the street from the Olympus of Landmark.The Sentinel has both one and two-bedroom floor plans. All condos at the Sentinel include private balcony, washer/dryer, dishwasher, electric range, expanded basic cable TV. The Sentinel also has :

• On-site convenience store
• Fully-equipped fitness center
• Garage parking
• Nighttime security guard ... a sentinel if you will
• Party room
• Patio with gazebo and grills
• Playground
• Swimming pools
• Tennis courts

You might already know of the Olympus at Landmark because of it's convenient location in the West End of Alexandria VA or because of it's ground-breaking curved design, but you might know know of the amenities of the Olympus.

The pool of the Olympus is open all summer long and is found on the south west side of the building.

The Olympus was built in 1974, but the fitness room is sleek modern and nicely appointed. There are number of work-out machines and weights. Wall-mounted TV's are there to pass your work-out or if you prefer you can overlook the pool from the work-out room.

Just off the fitness room and the lobby is the party room / meeting room. Reserve use through the on-site concierge and you've got the perfect place for a meeting or a party.

Condo fees are on the high-side at the Olympus, but prices are low. If you're looking in the West End, Olympus definitely deserves a look.

The Olympus is located at 6301 Stevenson Ave. in Alexandria VA. In the summer, the birch trees in the Olympus courtyard spring to life offering a shady escape from the busy city.

The building's unique curved shaped offers intriguing vistas and not just from the oversized curved balconies that each unit enjoys.

The Olympus is located in the West End of Alexandria between I-495 and I-395 near Landmark Mall. The Sentinel of Landmark is across the street, but there are many condominiums in this area, including

• Alexandria Knolls
• Canterbury Square
• Cameron Station
• Duke Garden
• Edsall Bluff
• EOS-21 (Twenty One)
• Exchange at Van Dorn
• the Fountains
• the Greenhouse
• Northampton
• Olympus at Landmark
• Palazzo at Center Park
• Parkfairfax
• Pointe at Park Center
• Saxony Square
• Seminary Hill
• Seminary Walk
• Templeton of Alexandria
• Van Dorn Metro
• Watergate at Landmark

Would you like to get to know Old Town Alexandria VA? I'll tell you one of the best ways to see a few sites and learn more about our fair city: take a carriage ride. Our carriage was pulled by a hard-working mule. Her owner tells us she loves to pull. As she clopped slowly down the side streets of Old Town, her owner filled in details about houses and locations that we passed. For me, most of the information was old hat, but I couldn't help but think this would be a great way for a tourist or new resident to get to know the city. The fee for the ride was down right reasonable and I was impressed with the mule's strength as she pulled up and down hill along Old Town's waterfront.

After she dropped us off we snapped this picture from Market Square. There in front of Burke and Herbert she seemed more in place with the surroundings than the cars who shared her road.

The Torpedo Factory condominium complex is located at 115 N. Lee St. in Old Town Alexandria just 1 block from King St. and across the street from the Carlyle House. The Torpedo Factory offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom condominium homes centered around a well-kept courtyard.  The Torpedo Factory doesn't offer the standard condo amenities like a pool and fitness room. 

Instead, the neighborhood is the amenity here.  The Torpedo Factory is surrounded by restaurants, shops and tourist attractions.  It's only one block from the Potomac Waterfront and is across the street from the Torpedo Factory Art Center. If you're looking for a home in historic Old Town and you don't want the maintenance that townhouse will require, you'll definitely want to check out the Torpedo Factory.

Click the Torpedo Factory for the latest prices and for a map of the location.

4 Van Dorn Alexandria, VA (posted 8/22/09)

Rent includes most utilities. Conveniently located near Van Dorn Metro, Landmark Mall and I-395.

2BR/1BA Condo / $1299/month Bedrooms -- 2 Bathrooms --- 1 full, 0 partial Sq Footage --- 915 Parking --- 1 assigned plus 1 visitor Pet Policy --- Cats, dogs allowed on case by case basis Deposit --- 1 month rent

Click photo for more pictures & availability.

DESCRIPTION

• Nicely maintained condo ready to go. Easy in and out .. take stairs to second floor.

RENTAL FEATURES

• Air conditioning
• Central heat
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven
• Laundry area - inside
• Swimming pool
• High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Guest parking
• Clubhouse
• Laundry on-site
• Storage space(s)
• Fitness center
• Swimming pool(s)

Contact us for more information.

Huntington Walk is a nice little garden-style condo community on Rt. 1 in Fairfax County across from the Target south of Alexandria. The units are very nicely priced and in good shape. Many have updated kitchens and patios or balconies.  The laundry is common, but the building is nice sturdy brick.


Huntington Run is the younger sister of Huntington Walk. The units are about the same size as Huntington Walk, which is to say as, very generously proportioned. The unit has laundry in the unit, but the building is siding.

Huntington Run and Huntington Walk won't break your budget, but will put you near the Metro.

Click Huntington Run or Huntington Walk for prices and more information.

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.

Will Nesbitt | Condo 1 Alexandria | request more info | 703 765 0300

Wakefield Dr, Alexandria, VA 22307 (posted 8/22/09)

Rent includes ALL utilities. Conveniently located near Old Town Alexandria, Belle View Shopping Center and Potomac River.

1BR/1BA Condo / $1265/month

• Bedrooms -- 1
• Bathrooms --- 1 full, 0 partial
• Sq Footage --- 714
• Parking --- ample and available
• Pet Policy --- Cats, Small dogs (< 25lbs)
• Deposit --- 1 month rent

DESCRIPTION

• Nicely maintained condo ready to go. Easy in and out .. take stairs to second floor.

RENTAL FEATURES

• Air conditioning
• Central heat
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven
• Laundry area - inside
• Swimming pool
• High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Guest parking
• Clubhouse
• Laundry on-site
• Storage space(s)
• Fitness center
• Swimming pool(s)

More information about the River Towers:

• I love River Towers --- Life, leisure and activities at River Towers
• RiverTowers.biz --- Activities at River Towers
• RiverTowers.Info --- Official information about River Towers
• RiverTowers.org --- River Towers Business Association

2451 Midtown Ave, Alexandria, VA

Will Nesbitt | Condo 1 Alexandria | request more info | 703 765 0300

301 N. Beauregard, Alexandria, VA (posted 8/22/09)

Rent includes ALL utilities. Conveniently located near i-395 with easy access to DC, Arlington, Tyson's Corner and more.

1BR/1BA Condo / $1195/month

• Bedrooms -- 1
• Bathrooms --- 1 full, 0 partial
• Sq Footage --- 758
• Parking --- 1 dedicated
• Pet Policy --- Cats, Small dogs (< 25lbs)
• Deposit --- $1,195

DESCRIPTION

• Nicely maintained condo ready to go. Great views from the balcony.

RENTAL FEATURES

• Air conditioning
• Central heat
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven
• Laundry area - inside
• Swimming pool
• High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Guest parking
• Clubhouse
• Laundry on-site
• Storage space(s)
• Fitness center
• Swimming pool(s)

More information about the Fountains:

• The Fountains Condominiums --- 301 N. Beauregard in Alexandria VA
• The-Fountains.Info --- Official information about the Fountains Condominiums in Alexandria's West End
• The Fountains Alexandria --- A quick guide to the Fountains Condos in Alexandria near Landmark

Nestled between King Street (Route 7) and West Braddock Road in Alexandria VA, Victorian Hills dates back to the late 1960s.  These beautiful single family homes are a rare find.  With ample size lots and a secluded feel granted by trees with history this community combines being close to the heart of Alexandria without the metropolis feel.  The colonial style construction gives a comforting air that can only say "Welcome Home". 

For a look at homes for sale, prices and other important real estate information click Victorian Hills.

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

The Sequoyah condos were built in 1978. Sequoyah includes a total of 1018 units. The features the Sequoyah community areas include:

• Outdoor pool
• Tennis courts
• Playground for children.
• Community Center

The Sequoya condos are situated near the intersection of Route 1 and Mount Vernon Highway, just ten minutes from the Beltway. For a map of Sequoyah or to check prices and sales listings in Sequoyah, click Sequoyah condos.

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

	Carlyle Towers is a landmark in Alexandria. The towers are located between King St. Metro and the Eisenhower Metro in the Carlyle District. Carlyle Towers is part of the new skyline of Alexandria that serves the neighborhoods surrounding the USPTO and the US District Court.
One of the most obvious benefits of life at Carlyle Towers is the veranda. Many units have sweeping views of the city, but some look back toward the Blue Ridge Mountains. Others peek beyond the city to the Potomac River. Perhaps my favorites are those with a view of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial.
The rooftop pools are just one of many features residents enjoy at Carlyle Towers. Residents have access to fitness rooms, saunas, hot tubs, a library and party rooms. The rooftop deck has putting greens and croquet as well as shuffle board.

Carlyle Towers also has parking garages for residents. There are a wide variety of floorplans and units. You owe it to yourself to check them out. Click Carlyle Towers for a list of what is currently for sale with detailed information about prices, square footage and more.

Alexandria VA is home to the US District Court Eastern District of Virginia. The Albert V. Bryan U.S. Courthouse is located near Carlyle Towers at 401 Courthouse Square, Alexandria, VA 22314. The Albert V. Bryan Courthouse is open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. The Clerk's Office is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

This courthouse has seen many notable cases:

• United States v. Jefferson (Congressman with mony in the freezer)
• United States v. Vick (Football player with dog fighting)
• United States v. Zacarias Moussaoui (terrorist)

And others such as

• United States v. Masoud Khan, et. al.
• United States v. Jay Lentz
• United States v. John Walker Lindh
• Yaser Hamdi v. Donald Rumsfeld

The courthouse is located directly across the street from the Trademark Bar and Carlyle Towers.

National trends may be continuing to decline, but in Alexandria, Arlington, and nearby parts of Northern Virginia real estate is showing two signs of a comeback.  According to an MRIS Press Release: "Selling prices remain flat metro wide in the Greater Washington DC region, but the central jurisdictions---DC, Alexandria, and Arlington and Montgomery counties---continue to buck the trend."

John McClain, Senior Fellow at George Mason University's School of Public Policy, was quoted by them as saying, "Prices continue to rise in the central jurisdictions. They're in a much better price position due to their premium location."

The most dramatic is an increase in prices of home sales, but equally important is the shortening of time properties are on the market.  These two combine to reduce the available inventory available to buyers.  Waiting can be a shortcut to loss, so holding off in anticipation of falling prices can leave you kicking yourself for missing good deals.

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

Ben Brenman Park is located at 5000 Duke St. in Alexandria, VA 22311. Ben Brenman Park is very accessible to residents of Cameron Station, the Greenhouse and many other communities in Old Town and the West End of Alexandria VA.

Ben Brenman Park is known to pet owners because it has a fenced dog area.The park is very nice for walking, strolling and for joggers.Young children love the playground with multiple slides and swings.

Ben Brenman Park has a large pond with fountains. At the center of the pond is a nice gazebo.

At the edge of the park you can visit the shops that are on Brenman Park Drive. There is a coffe shop, a restaurant and the well-regarded Food Matters market.

Other features of at Ben Brenman Park include

• a softball field,
• a Little League baseball field,
• a soccer field,
• restrooms,
• pedestrian bridges,
• a picnic pavilion with grills,
• and a small amphitheater.

The Watergate at Landmark is located by the intersection of 395 and Duke St.  With 24 hour security and patrols peace of mind is just one of the great benefits of the community.  A beautiful outdoor pool, putting greens, tennis courts, gazebos, indoor pool, exercise rooms, sauna, and a sand volleyball court grace these hi-rise condos.

To see a map of Watergate at Landmark, more pictures and prices of what's currently listed for sale click listings at Watergate at Landmark.

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

King Street Gardens Park is located at the foot of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial near the King St. Metro in Old Town Alexandria VA. This small park is surrounded by hotels, office buildings, AMTRAK and a Metro stop.  The signature feature of King Street Gardens is a large metal sculpture with hanging gardens. This together with the sunken gardens are intended to provide references to historic aspects of the site. 

The abstract metal sculpture sculpture hints at a ship's prow, a plow, or a colonial-style three-cornered hat.  The sunken garden, and plantings therein, are intended to reference the wetlands that originally existed on the site.  In the Victorian era, trellised gardens were popular in Old Town and the gardens here remember that era when the street grid followed the plan originally laid out by George Washington. 

The park is intended for the general public's enjoyment and serves as a place for outdoor concerts. On Wednesdays through the summer the Old Town Farmer's Market sets up here.  

The Upper King Street Fresh Farmers' Market is held at 1806 King St. aat the King Street Gardens Park. The King Street Gardens Park is a short walk east from the King St. Metro station. The market is open from 3 pm to 7 pm on Wednesdays. The market is open through-out the late spring and summer until October 28, 2009.

Pinecrest Golf Course is a par 35, 9-hole executive course, measuring 2,462 yards. Located in Fairfax County, Pinecrest is a public course found at the corner of Little River Turnpike (236) and Braddock Road, bordering Alexandria and Annandale.

Warm-up and practice your game here at Pinecrest on the putting green, driving cages or at the indoor practice area. When you're ready to play, the course is narrow with hills and ponds that challenge serious players, but provide an environment that novices will also enjoy. Novices can even rent golf clubs at Pinecrest. Of course, riding and pull carts are available for rent.

Every Body Golf School provides golf lessons for groups or individuals on site. Pinecrest also has a full service clubhouse, pro shop and snack bar. The course is open all year, weather permitting.

If you're looking for a home on the course, you might want to investigate the Pinecrest community.

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.

The Pinecrest is a community of houses, townhouses and condominiums located just off Little River Turnpike in Annandale VA. The Pinecrest occupies 35 acres of manicured grounds that abut a The Pinecrest golf course, a Fairfax County public course. The Pinecrest very close to the shops and restaurants of Annandale and Alexandria. The Pinecrest is also very close to Green Springs Gardens.   I recently toured the Pinecrest and snapped a few pictures.

The condos here feel spacious with a very smart floor plan that brings light and nature into the living space. The fire place is perfectly situated between long tall windows.

The decks feel private and rustit providing a nice piece of nature for residents. Located just off the kitchen, the porch is a nice place to have a morning coffee or a summertime afternoon lemonade.

The fountains and grounds of the Pinecrest do not disappoint. Click the Pinecrest for a map of Pinecrest and a list of homes for sale. As the map indicates, the Pinecrest is found inside the Washington Beltway about ten miles from Washington, D.C.  or historic Old Town Alexandria Virginia.

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.

Montebello is on the hill up over looking the Eisenhower Valley and the Potomac River. I took this picture yesterday while standing on a balcony at Hunting Creek Club. We were there to do a walk-through inspection for a sale that is closing tomorrow. The view here was actually very striking but I didn't take many pictures as I knew my camera wouldn't really do it justice. If you're seeking a nice view, proximity to the metro and you're trying to maintain a tight budget, Hunting Creek Club is a great one to consider.

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.

The Fountains condominium community is located in the West End of Alexandria VA. The condo fees here include all utilities plus heating and air conditioning.   The Fountains has a swimming pool, fitness center and party room. There is a limited amount of surface parking available to residents for free, but there are also garage spaces for sale or rent both next door and on-site.Most residences include 1 or more garage spaces. Laundry is on-site and there is 24 hour secured entry into the building. Fountains 301 Condominiums 301 N. Beauregard Alexandria VA 22312 (703) 354-1300 (703) 354 2978 (fax)

The Fountains is located close to I-395 and is well served by public transportation, including DASH buses. From the Fountains, DASH buses follow I-395 to the Pentagon Metro and DC. The Fountains is a very short drive from Arlington's Rosslyn and Crystal City. Shirlington is just down the road on I-395. The Fountains is in Alexandria just a few blocks from Old Town. But the community is still relatively close to Tyson's Corner and Springfield.

To see prices, more pictures and a map click the Fountains.

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.

Drivers on Rt. 7 near Tysons Corner will notice permanent changes to traffic patterns that will allow for construction of a Tysons Central Metrorail station. The Tysons Central station is part of the new line that will serve the Dulles Metrorail Project. Tysons Central station construction is scheduled to end in 2013.

According to the Washington Post:

"The changes are at the intersection of Route 7, Marshalls Drive (the road leading to the Marshalls store) and the frontage road. Traffic from Marshalls Drive and the frontage road onto Route 7 is now only allowed to turn right. Drivers may not turn from Marshalls Drive to westbound Route 7, nor from the frontage road to eastbound Route 7. Additionally, drivers on Marshalls Drive or the frontage road may not cross Route 7."

• Greendale Public Golf Course: an 18 hole course nearby in Fairfax County;
  
• Pohick Bay Public Golf Course: is found near Mason Neck on Gunston Road; 
• Laurel Hill Public Golf Course: is south of Kingstowne near Lorton;

Midtown Alexandria Station is located at the Huntington Metro in Fairfax County, Alexandria VA. These are new condos with fantastic appeal inside. One of the best things about life at the Midtown is the roof top deck located on the 7th floor just above the Yellow Line.

The roof features a nice sized pool with plenty of area around the pool to lounge and catch some rays. The pool level is just above the trains at Huntington Metro, but this only adds to the allure of this complex.

The roof deck also features a grilling area where residents can enjoy a summer picnic with a few of the Carlyle District and the Eisenhower Valley.

A large granite counter is available for parties by the pool.

The party room at Midtown Alexandria Station is an asset to owners and residents.The north wall in this room features 20 or so feet of glass with views of the Beltway, Yellow Line and the Carlyle District.

High-ceilings make for a perfect party atmosphere.

Here's a look at the front door of the condominiums of 1600 Prince, located on 1600 Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria VA.  This is located in one of Northern Virginia's most walkable neighborhoods not far from the King Street Metro Station.

Directions to Kingstowne's Business Office and Community Centers, from the Capital Beltway

• Exit the Beltway at the South Van Dorn exit and proceed south on South Van Dorn Street.
• Follow South Van Dorn across Franconia Road where you will enter Kingstowne (you will see the Kingstowne brick wall on your right).
• Continue on South Van Dorn Street, past its intersection with Lake Village Drive. Kingstowne's and its pool will be on your right, at 6450 South Van Dorn.
• Merge right onto Kingstowne Village Parkway.
• Follow it for about a mile and a half, through two traffic lights.
• Kingstowne's and its pool will be on your right, at 6080 Kingstowne Village Parkway.
• Continue on Kingstowne Village Parkway, passing the entrance to Stratford Place Condominiums on your left.  Take the next right turn and you'll be entering the parking lot of Kingstowne's at 6090 Kingstowne Village Parkway.  The business office is on the second floor.
  

• Kingstowne Business Office
  (703 )922-9477
  kingstowne@kingstowne.org
• Thompson Fitness Center
  (703) 922-4216
• Snyder Fitness Center
  (703) 719-7909
  fitness@kingstowne.org

Stratford Place is one of the villages of Kingstowne where you'll find condominium homes at a good price in a great neighborhood. The three-story garden-style condominiums are served by stairways. (No elevators keeps the condo fees lower.) The stairways are under roof but open to the elements. The hallways are nicely carpeted.

The buildings have a modernized colonial-style architecture with staggered roof-lines and dormers. The mix of brick and siding give the community a suburban welcome-home feel. Though difficulty to see in these pictures, the entrances are under large archways housing the open stairways.

There is no shortage of parking. With access to both reserved and visitor parking residents shouldn't have any problems here. All units have nice large balconies with views to the trees and rolling hills of Kingstowne. The treetop level balconies have plenty of room for a picnic or just a place to sit.

Outside on the balcony and inside the unit, compared to many condominium homes in Northern Virginia, the units at Stratford Place feel large and spacious. All condominiums here have fireplaces.

The living room is separated from the kitchen by a counter and run of cabinets, giving the place an open floor plan. Stratford Place is just old enough that many of the kitchens offer new appliances.

If you like the pool, you won't have to leave your village for a dip. The pool is right here in Stratford Place.

Click Stratford Place for a map of the community and more information about pricing and availability of these homes in Kingstowne.

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.

Cities are wealth-generators. That is to say, good jobs and opportunities are found in cities like Alexandria, Fairfax and Arlington. Though we all enjoy wealth opportunities, many of us don't enjoy concrete and asphalt. There is something to be said for the greenery of the rural living. Even in New York City, folks enjoy Central Park. If you're one of those folks who need to live within easy commute of Washington D.C., Alexandria or Arlington, but you also need your little piece of nature, then you may owe yourself a visit to River Towers.

River Towers is found at the end of a looping horseshoe drive tucked between Belle View and a national wildlife preserve. Like all the homes of New Alexandria, River Towers has easy access to the Potomac and Belle Haven Marina, as well as the shops of Belle View Shopping Center.

My office is located at River Towers, because River Towers provides to the city but is an oasis of greenery. In the summer the shade of mature oaks provides pleasant vistas into the forest beyond. I personally have witnessed deer, foxes, racoons and various waterfowl and birds without getting up from my desk. To the rear of the 6641 building is a water drain that was long an eyesore to some at River Towers.

The landscaping committee set themselves to the task of transforming an eyesore into an asset. They have surrounded the drain with flowering shrubs and decorative grasses to provide a screen and focal point for the eye when seated at the nearby bench.

The paths at River Towers are punctuated with benches and places of beauty. The flowers have already started blooming at this new landcaping feature. I expect that as the planting mature, the storm drain will be difficult to spot, but the flowers will still provide a treat for the eyes.

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.

With over 100 years of history the Del Ray community is one of the best kept secrets within Alexandria, Virginia.  It has something for everyone with single-family homes, condos, apartments, and duplexes.  Del Ray stretches from Braddock Road to Glebe Rd and from Route One to Russell Road.  Down the core runs Mount Vernon Avenue, the center of not only the commercial areas, but also the home of many great community events. 

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.

The Huntington Club is on the Huntington Metro and is one of the few affordable locations in Northern Virginia where one can walk to the metro. I've just posted a new sale for $129k for a 2 BR. If that doesn't make your eyes pop, then you don't yet know how much things cost in this area. Contact me for more details.

Westlee is located near the intersection of Lee Hwy and Westmoreland Street at 2200 N. Westmoreland Street. The Westlee has 128 residential units above the first floor. The ground floor has 8,248 square feet of ground floor retail space. The Westlee is within easy walking distance to the East Falls Church Metro Station.

Westlee offers underground parking for residents, a fitness center and concierge service. For maintenance and management issues please contact the association's office at

2200 N Westmoreland St
Arlington, VA 22213-1044
(703) 532-3770

For rentals and sales, please contact us at 703 765 0300.

The Westlee is nestled less than four short blocks from East Falls Church station on the Orange Line.  The units are graced with soaring 10 foot ceilings.  Included in the amenities are a classy and grandiose club room as well as a gym for the residents. 24 hour access control and garage parking make this a well secured home.   Right next door you'll find the Bear Rock Cafe and the La Cote D'Or Cafe with a Baskin Robbins to sate your sweet tooth just two blocks 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.

The Braddock Metro Station is located at 700 N. West St., entrance at the North side Braddock Rd.

 Colecroft Station Condos and Braddock Place are two of the closest communities to the Braddock Road Metro.  Rosemont and Del Ray are also nearby.

The first train departs at 4:55am at Huntington Station, and last train departs at 12:33am Huntington Station. Braddock Metro is 7 blocks from the center of Old Town Alexandria, of Washington Street, and 5 blocks to the Potomac River.

Parking available using SmarTrip cards with 10 short metered spaces. There are 46 bike racks and 12 lockers at the station.

Metrorail fares are posted at WMATA.com. In all cases, up to 2 children 4 years or younger ride free with an adult paying full fare. Of course, children 5 or older pay adult fares. Seniors 65+ ride for half price of the regular fares.

Braddock Place is a condominium community located near Braddock Metro Station. The condominium homes in Braddock Place are reasonably priced with excellent commutes to Alexandria, the Pentagon, Crystal City, DC and Arlington. Here's a winter view from a typical balcony as it looks back toward Old Town and the Potomac.

Most condos at Braddock Place are in good condition.

Braddock Place condos are 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 Place to see properties for sale at Braddock Place on the Braddock Road Metro. Are you looking for a home near the metro? For a maps, prices and more check here.

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.

Arch Hall condominiums are named for a nearby historical structure which in 1950 and 1951 was painstakingly disassembled and then fifteen miles south. The original Arch Hall now sits on a 140-acre site overlooking Belmont Bay on the Mason Neck peninsula, Fairfax County. Today's Arch Hall condos are sited seven blocks south of the church George Washington's family attended and just inside what were once the original boundaries of the District of Columbia in Old Town Alexandria. The brick walled courtyards have the feel of Old Town with modern conveniences inside the home.

St. Asaph Square condominium community is located on St. Asaph Street between Jefferson and Green St. This 108-unit condominium community takes up an entire city block between St. Asaph Street and South Pitt St. It is a secure building with s underground parking and a pool in the courtyard plaza. The exterior is nearly all brick surrounded by ornamental beds and landscaping highlighted by Oak, Southern Magnolia and Washington Hawthorne trees embrace the brick architecture

Abingdon Row is a condominum community conveniently located in Old Town Alexandria VA near Montgomery Park, which has a dog park and lighted tennis courts. Abingdon Row is just a few blocks from the George Washington Parkway and bike trails. With a similarly close circle of conveniences are such needs as a Washington Sports Club, Trader Joes, Giant, an ABC store, and several very nice restaurants. 

The Braddock Road Metro station about a twelve minute walk from Abingdon Row, but many commuters might find it more convenient to grab the bus at Rt. 1 and ride into Crystal City or the Pentagon. Reagan National Airport about 7 minutes from Abingdon Row by car. If you drive to work, downtown DC is 10 to 15 minutes away depending on traffic. The shops and tourist areas of King Street and Market Square are about 10 blocks away.

Abingdon Row fits well with Old Town because the architecture preserves the best of colonial stylings with brick exterior and neo-classical columns. Keystones over arched windows and iron-railed terraces provide finishing touches on a design that echos the best of the 18th Century.

Although the exterior of Abingdon Row is styled like Old Town Alexandira, the interior is styled like the Carlyle District. The interiors are open, spacious with modern stylings featuring kitchens of granite and stainless steel. The flooring is a smart mix of hardwoods in the living areas and carpets in the bedroom. As you might expect condos here have full-size washer and dryers. Most condominium homes at Abingdon Row have balcony, patio or roof deck some with views of the Potomac and National Harbor.

The condos here are one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom units. Although there are only 53 residences at Abingdon Row there are over thirty different floorplans! These condos are scaled from a modest 720 square feet to a very generous 1,900 square feet layout. Abingdon Row has secure underground parking (a true luxury in the tight streets of Old Town). Most of the parking in the garage is unassigned, but a few units have reserved spaces.

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.

This condo is one of the rare units at the Carlyle Towers that has a private rooftop deck. Carlyle Towers is located in Alexandria VA in the Carlyle District. I've seen similar units at Midtown Alexandria Station, but a private rooftop deck is rare in Northern Virginia.