From February 1-6 Crystal City will celebrate its second annual Fashion Week.  Events will include trunk shows, music, food and drink, and dancing.  Audience members can even participate in an on-the-spot design competition.

Take some time to explore the Crystal City complex, which includes high rise residential buildings, office blocks, hotels, shops and restaurants.

Crystal City's 6,000 residents could go for months, or even years, without leaving the complex, which offers health clubs, banks, drug stores, supermarkets, doctors' and dentists' offices, a post office, nine parks, public concerts, a Water Park, night school and over l50 shops and restaurants.  In case the weather is bad, all these features are connected by underground passageways. 

If they do need to go somewhere, not to worry--because Crystal City is a commuter's dream.  It is five minutes from downtown or Reagan National Airport, lies on two Metro lines, has its own VRE commuter train station and is a hub of the local bicycle commuter system.

To see homes for sale in Crystal City, click here.

When Forbes Magazine named Fairfax City #3 of the top 25 U.S. cities to live in, it must have had the Chocolate Festival in mind.

Every year at this time the town invites the rest of us to binge on chocolate and charming 19th century surroundings.  This year's festival will be held on February 6 and 7 in Old Town Fairfax at Main Street and University Drive.

Events will include a contest to create chocolate works of art, a Pancake breakfast (chocolate chip, of course), open house in some the district's historic buildings and a craft show.  Walk off some of those excess calories by exploring well preserved buildings dating from the early 1800's, including the site of the first Confederate casualty of the Civil War and the Fairfax City Courthouse--built in 1800 and still in use today.  The district also includes a wide variety of restaurants and boutiques.

A choice location and woodsy feel make Marlan Forest (and its conjoined sister development Marlan Heights) a highly desirable address.

Set just across the George Washington Parkway from the Potomac River, Marlan Forest gives its residents easy access to the Mt. Vernon bike path for walking, running, biking and wildlife viewing.  It is bordered on the west by Ft. Hunt Road, which, along with nearby Route 1, provides abundant shopping opportunities.  Wilson Bridge is a stone's throw away, the Parkway connects commuters to Alexandria and other points north, and the area is served by the Huntington Metro stop.

The "forest" in Marlan Forest is more than just a name; it is a fact.  Builders took pains to spare as many trees as possible, and so today's residents are blessed with the luxury of towering old growth trees in and around their yards.  Homes tend to be beautifully landscaped, adding to the lush, green feel of the development.

Most of the homes were built in the '50's--a variety of ramblers, Colonials and Cape Cods, avoiding the cookie-cutter feel of some developments.  Prices range from $500K to just over $1 million, with an average price of about $800K.

Buyers are also drawn to the Fort Hunt/Mount Vernon area by the excellent Fairfax County Public Schools, county services and safety.

The Workhouse Arts Center is mounting an exhibition of works by several well-known African-American artists.  The Center is located in Lorton on the site of the defunct prison.

Sully Mansion in Chantilly, built in 1799, offers guided tours which highlight the lives of its early 19th century owners, tenant farmers and slaves, whose original quarters have been preserved.

Guides at Mount Vernon Estate emphasize the lives and contributions of the resident slaves.  Be sure to visit the gift shop for further materials highlighting the African American experience in America in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Attend gospel music concerts, movies and cultural celebrations in Arlington County.

Visit the website of the Arlington County Publc Libraries for a list of exhibits, programs, brochures and suggested readings in Black History.

Check out the Alexandria Black History Museum at 902 Wythe Street.  Its collection includes documents related to the first public schools for African Americans, records of Civil War exploits by black soldiers, a large collection of historic photographs and even some African artifacts.  The Robert H. Robinson library was originally established in 1940 because the Alexandria public libraries were segregated.  The museum and library also have their own adjacent park.  Then take a walk through beautiful, historic Old Town.

Finally, cross the river to celebrate the life Frederick Douglass--abolitionist, businessman and journalist.  Frederick Douglass House is located on the banks of the Anacostia River.  On February 14 historians will celebrate Douglass' birthday with readings, tours, films and music.

Athletes, would-be athletes and nature lovers should head south from Old Town Alexandria.

Stretching along the Potomac River from the southern border of Old Town to Mount Vernon Estate is the Mt. Vernon bike path.  Eight miles of asphalt allow locals and visitors to walk, run or bike while enjoying river views and wildlife sightings.  Bald eagles, ospreys, blue heron, cormorants, egrets, ducks and geese are among waterfowl commonly spotted along this corridor, while deer, groundhogs and fox sightings are frequent.  Combine cardio and conservation by following a nature trail through Dyke Marsh.

 Along the bike path is a fitness course and several points of access for canoes or kayaks.

Businesses in the nearby Belle View shopping center allow you to rent a bike, tone up at Curves or take karate lessons.  Adjacent to Belle View is the Mt. Vernon Recreation Center, which provides Fairfax County residents with an indoor pool and ice rink.  Farther south on Route 1 is a Gold's Gym.

Local communities such as River Towers, Porto Vecchio and Belle View also offer their residents tennis, swimming and basketball facilities as well as their own in-house gyms.

Here's a price report based on the last two years of sales and rentals as of 2/28/2010. Each report contains the median price along with high and low over the period. All figures are approximations and should not be used to judge final sales values.

Unit Type	For Sale	Condo Fees	Rental
One Bedroom, 950 to 990 sf	170,890 (136,453 to 221,000)	465 to 440	1,300 (1,200 to 1,420)
Two Bedroom, 1180 sf	209,500 (172,000 to 255,000)	550	1,700 (1,250 to 2,100)
Three Bedroom, 1700 to 1840 sf	275,000 (260,000 to 329,000)	800 to 860	2,000

Skyline Plaza is located at 3701 and 3705 S George Mason Dr. Falls Church Virginia 22041, near Leesburg Pike (Route 7), I-395, and between Eisenhower Ave and Bailey's Crossroads. Skyline Plaza was built in 1973, it's a 15 minute commute to D.C.

Amenities include:

• 24 Hour Security
• Children's Playground
• Storage Space 
• Outdoor pool
• Sauna
• Gym
• Party/Club Room
• Balconies
• Garage Parking
• Community/In Unit Washer/Dryer
• Electricity, Gas and Water included in condo fee
• Central A/C
• Gas Heat
• Gas Hot Water Heater

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.

There are several key steps that your Virginia Licensed Real Estate Agent will help you through. Knowing what these are in advance can help you not be surprised later on:

• Know your budget, consult with a financial institution about what you can be pre-approved for.
• Know your needs, including:
  • Number of bedrooms
  • Location
  • Walking distance to a bus stop
  • Walking distance to a metro stop
  • Price
  • Property condition
  • Age of the property
  • Garage Parking
• Amenities (for condos)
  • Indoor/Outdoor pool
  • Putting Greens
  • Tennis courts
  • In unit washer/dryer
  • Utilities included in condo fees
  • Basketball courts
  • Bowling
  • Concierge service
  • Controlled access
• Realize that something will have to give to get what you want, prioritize your needs so that you can get the most important features.
• Budget time and money:
  • Finding any home is easy. Finding the right home requires time invested in looking at properties.
  • Money for downpayments and closing costs can vary from a couple percentage points to a cash purchase where you provide the entire amount up front.
  
  

  ---

  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.

Located at 501 Slaters Lane in Alexandria, Virginia, Marina Towers is a large condominium community consisting of approximately 500 residents. Marina Towers is located along the north side of Old Town Alexandria, where residents can enjoy boutique shopping, antique galleries, and a wide selection of restaurants and entertainment. In addition, the Potomac Landing Sailing Marina and two bicycle paths are located just a short walking distance from Marina Towers as well.

Marina Towers is located near many of Northern Virginia's major thoroughfares and is positioned conveniently close (only 3 miles away) to Reagan National Airport, making the Marina Towers every commuter's dream. The Marina Towers condominium units are spacious and modern, and the condominium grounds feature a host of amenities including a riverside swimming pool which features free water aerobics classes; a fitness center; a convenience store/drycleaners; a party room; a tiki bar and a gazebo. Between the exceptionally convenient location of Marina Towers and their close proximity to shopping, mass-transit and the Potomac River, this is a must-see condo community for anyone looking to live in Northern Virginia!

If you are looking or even just thinking about buying a condominium home in or around Northern Virginia, it's perfectly natural to feel a little nervous. Buying a condo and owning your own home is a large, life changing purchase. Indeed, any individual thinking about buying a condo needs to know what to expect and how to prepare for those expectations. Below is a short list of 5 essential tips that any condo buyer would do well to consider throughout the process of finding a new condominium home. Happy hunting!       

1) Look at Everything in Person

First, remember to look in person at any condo unit you are interested in. It is very important that you make sure to actually see the amenities, parking space, and condo facilities personally. This simple but critical task will avoid any confusion and disappointment later on and will ensure that you are satisfied with your condo purchase. If you absolutely cannot look at the condo in person than ask the seller if you can send a friend you trust to look at the unit instead. In addition, if you are located in a different city than where you are condo shopping, be sure to ask the condo seller or realtor to send you as many pictures as possible of the condo and the condo building before you make a decision.  

2) Carefully review the Condo Association Fees First

Make sure that you know what exactly is included in your condo purchase. What amenities are included in the condo fees to make the condo right for the price? Or, on the other hand, are you going to end up paying for benefits you don't need? In addition, ask if there is any insurance included. Different condo associations may charge the same amount per month, but one may include some incidental insurance while others may require hefty fees for amenities you may not really need or want. Finally, check the condo association meetings and/or any printed bulletins that result from them. Look for any past or developing issues that you need to take into account.

3) Never Ignore the Documents that Accompany the Condo Purchase 

Always review the condominium documents very carefully before you buy. In laymen's terms, don't ignore the fine print. Here, you should check the total price and property documents to make sure that they are reasonable for the area. Be especially cautious if the price is very low because this could mean you will need a special assessment of the unit, which could cost you a lot of money, later in the future.

4) Always Review Comparable Units for Sale in the Same Building

While every condo building is unique and features different amenities, styles, policies, and location, it is important that you look into other condo units that are for sale or have sold in the same building. Here, do not simply rely on the recent sale price of another unit in the building. Consider what another units' floor plan was, what views it had, or if it had any special upgrades. Depending on the view and floor of the unit, the price of a one bedroom can vary within a condo building.

5) Work with a Specialist

The condominium marketplace is often a very specialized type of real estate and as such, you should always consider working with a qualified realtor, and particularly one who specializes in condos. With the help of a realtor, you will have access to a greater condominium market which will enable you to find the best condo unit to fit your needs at a price that you can live with.  

• To qualify for the move-up tax credit, a home owner must have occupied the same principal residence for five of the last eight years consecutively.
• Buyers can elect to claim the credit on either their 2009 or their 2010 tax return, whichever is best for them.
• Buyers who claim the credit in 2009 can’t file electronically because the Internal Revenue Service hasn’t put the required forms on line. The wait for a refund is three or four months.
• The home can be a mobile home or travel trailer that is fixed to land owned or leased by the home owner. A mobile home or travel trailer that is actually mobile doesn’t qualify.
• The home can’t be purchased from a close relative, including a parent, spouse, child, grandparent or grandchild.
• A buyer who earns no taxable income or doesn’t owe any federal income tax can qualify for the tax credit and file a tax return just to claim it.

1. Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, Mass.
2. Charlotte-Gastonia-Concord, N.C.-S.C.
3. Chicago-Naperville-Joliet, Ill.-Ind.-Wis.
4. Cincinnati-Middletown, Ohio-Ky.-Ind.
5. Denver-Aurora-Broomfield, Colo
6. Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, Minn.-Wis.
7. Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, Pa.-N.J.-Del.-Md.
8. Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton, Ore.-Wash.
9. San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, Calif.
10. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C.-Va.-Md.-W.V.

$1195 / 1br - River Towers Condos, beautiful neighborhood, right near GW Bike Path

6641 Wakefield Blvd, Alexandria, VA

Rent includes all utilities. Located near Belle View shopping center, GW Parkway, Route 1 and the Beltway

DESCRIPTION

• Nicely maintained condo ready to go.
  

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
• Fitness center
• Swimming pool(s)

Contact Ben Fornshell for more information.

Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC

Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County ·

• W-2 forms --- or business tax return forms if you're self-employed --- for the last two or three years for every
  person signing the loan.
  
• Copies of at least one pay stub for each person signing the loan.
  
• Account numbers of all your credit cards and the amounts for any outstanding balances.
  
• Copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements for both checking and savings
  accounts.
  
• Lender, loan number, and amount owed on other installment loans, such as student loans and
  car loans.
  
• Addresses where you've lived for the last five to seven years, with names of landlords if
  appropriate.
  
• Copies of brokerage account statements for two to four months, as well as a list of any other major assets of
  value, such as a boat, RV, or stocks or bonds not held in a brokerage account.
  
• Copies of your most recent 401(k) or other retirement account statement.
  
• Documentation to verify additional income, such as child support or a pension.
  
• Copies of personal tax forms for the last two to three years.

Get out and do something! Even though it's cold outside, there is always something to do in Arlington, Virginia. Below is a list of five fun, local, and free or low-cost events in Arlington that anyone can enjoy!   

1) Children's Theatre Festival

Event: Children's Theatre Festival

Date/Time: Saturday, January 16, 11 am-5 pm

Location: Rosslyn Spectrum, 1611 N. Kent Street, Arlington, VA 22209

Event Description:
The Children's Theatre Festival is a full day theatre event including exciting live performances, workshops, theatre activities and more. The theatre lobby will be filled with activities for children such as painting, drawing, and storytelling beginning at 11 am. There will be a performance of The Cat and the Seagull at 12 pm and again at 4pm. This theatre performance is based on The Story of the Seagull and the Cat Who Taught Her How to Fly, by Luis Sepulveda. At 1 pm there will be additional performances by Los Quetzalitos, the Children's Mexican Dance Group, and Las Lunitas.

Contact and Other Info:
Admission to The Cat and the Seagull is $10.00. All other activities are free. Free Parking in the building garage. Food and drink will be available for sale throughout the festival. Call 703-548-3092 for more information or visit http://www.teatrodelaluna.org.

2) Painting Class for Beginners

Event:  Painting Class for Beginners

Date/Time:  Wednesday, January 20, 10 am – 12 pm 

Location: Walter Reed Senior Center, 2909 16th Street South, Arlington, VA 22204 

Event Description:
Learning how to paint is easier and more fun than ever! Longtime art teacher Blanche Kirchner is opening her painting class on Wednesday morning to help people who are new to the wonderful world of art creation and painting. Blanche will consult new artists on what materials they should bring and discuss the options of different media. This event will get anyone interested in art on the road to their own creative expression!

Contact and Other Info:
Cost is $24 for 4 sessions. Call Nelly Urbach at 703-228-0955 for more information. Sessions run Jan. 20 - Feb. 10 and Feb. 17 - March 10. Event website can be located at:  http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/parksrecreation/scripts/comm_center/parksrecreationscriptscomm_centerwalterreed.aspx.

3) Comedy Club

Event:  Comedy Club

Date/Time:  Friday, January 22, 10:30 am - 11:30 am 

Location: Aurora Hills Senior Center, 735 18th Street South, Arlington, VA 22202

Event Description:
Come to laugh and relive the classic comedy of times past at Aurora Hills. Guests will enjoy video and audio selections of The Honeymooners, I Love Lucy, Sid Caesar, Milton Berle, Bill Dana, and Burns and Allen. Later, guests can take a stab at sharing their own funny stories together. The event will be led by Mike Bloom, comedy book author and former write for Walt Disney pictures.

Contact and Other Info:
Cost is free. Contact Julie Albers at 703-228-5722 to register. The Comedy Club meets monthly on Fridays. The event website can be found at: http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/parksrecreation/scripts/comm_center/parksrecreationscriptscomm_centeraurorahills.aspx.

4) Under the Ice 

Event:  Under the Ice 

Date/Time:  Saturday, January 23, 2 pm-3 pm 

Location: Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 N. Military Road, Arlington, VA 22207

Event Description:
Bring children ages 6 and up to a winter wonderland in the Gulf Branch Nature Center pond. Children will learn what's lurking in that cold dark water and then go outside and discover what can be hauled up from its depths. The nature centers is nestled in lovely park setting and the event will be staffed with friendly and knowledgeable people who are there to help you and your family learn more about the great outdoors. This interactive event is an environmental education programs for both children and adults. Registration is required.

Contact and Other Info:
A fee of $3 will be due upon registration. Event is for children ages 6 and up, registered children only. Call 703-228-3403 or 703-228-4747 for more information or visit the event website located at: http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/parksrecreation/scripts/nature/parksrecreationscriptsnaturegulfbranch.aspx.

5) Sudoku Mental Exercise Class

Event:  Sudoku Mental Exercise Class

Date/Time:  Wednesday, January 27, 1 pm – 3 pm 

Location: Langston-Brown Senior Center, 2121 Culpeper Street. Arlington, VA 22207

Event Description:
Challenge yourself and learn to work Sudoku puzzles in your head using the systematic approach developed by instructor Nort Beckerman. This two-hour class will build brain function and cognitive abilities, including memory, while teaching strategies for solving Sudoku puzzles. The class is fun and stimulating. Guests must be registered for the event.

Contact and Other Info:
Cost is free. Contact Eva Mayor at 703-228-5321 to register for the event. Event website is located at:
http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/parksrecreation/scripts/comm_center/parksrecreationscriptscomm_centerlangstonbrown.aspx.

Contract activity for pending home sales fell after a surge of activity in preceding months to beat the original deadline for the first-time home buyer tax credit but remains comfortably above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors(r).

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in November, fell 16.0 percent to 96.0 from an upwardly revised 114.3 in October, but is 15.5 percent higher than November 2008 when it was 83.1.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a drop was expected. "It will be at least early spring before we see notable gains in sales activity as home buyers respond to the recently extended and expanded tax credit," he said. "The fact that pending home sales are comfortably above year-ago levels shows the market has gained sufficient momentum on its own. We expect another surge in the spring as more home buyers take advantage of affordable housing conditions before the tax credit expires."

Buyers who have a contract in place to purchase a primary residence by April 30, 2010, have until June 30, 2010, to finalize the transaction to qualify for the tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time buyers and $6,500 for repeat buyers.

The PHSI in the Northeast dropped 25.7 percent to 74.4 in November but is 14.7 percent above a year ago. In the Midwest the index fell 25.7 percent to 82.0 but is 9.2 percent higher than November 2008. Pending home sales in the South fell 15.0 percent to an index of 97.8, but are 14.7 percent higher than a year ago. In the West the index declined 2.7 percent to 124.6 but is 21.4 percent above November 2008.

Yun projects an additional 900,000 first-time buyers will qualify for the extended tax credit in addition to about 2 million who have already purchased; 1.5 million repeat buyers also are expected to benefit from the credit.

"Many trade-up buyers, who have historically timed their purchase based on school-year considerations, will have to accelerate their buying plans if they need the tax credit to make a trade," Yun said. Repeat buyers do not have to sell their existing home to qualify for the credit, but they must occupy the home they buy as their primary residence.

Yun added that mortgage interest rates cannot remain at rock-bottom levels for a sustained period and will likely inch higher in 2010. But the tax credit impact in the first half of the year and expected job growth impact in the second half will support home buying activity and absorb enough inventory to bring a rough balance between buyers and sellers. Home prices are expected to stabilize or even modestly rise as a result in 2010.

The National Association of Realtors(r), "The Voice for Real Estate," is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

# # #

*The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.

The index is based on a large national sample, typically representing about 20 percent of transactions for existing-home sales. In developing the model for the index, it was demonstrated that the level of monthly sales-contract activity from 2001 through 2004 parallels the level of closed existing-home sales in the following two months. There is a closer relationship between annual index changes (from the same month a year earlier) and year-ago changes in sales performance than with month-to-month comparisons.

An index of 100 is equal to the average level of contract activity during 2001, which was the first year to be examined as well as the first of five consecutive record years for existing-home sales.

Existing-home sales for December will be reported January 25 and the next Pending Home Sales Index will be on February 2; release times are 10 a.m. EST.

• Plant native trees and plants
• Replace air filters
• Weather-strip and caulk doors and windows
• Install programmable thermostats
• Install low-flow showerheads
• Install CFL or LED lights
• Repaint with low VOC (volatile organic compound) paint

Home buyers who purchased a property after Nov. 6, 2009, when the extension and expansion of the first-time and move-up home buyer tax credit took effect, have reportedly been unable to get their rebates---or even file for them---because paperwork isn't available.

Robert Dietz, an economist with the National Association of Home Builders, says the delay is apparently caused by the Treasury Department's inability to quickly create new documentation that filers could use to prove they actually bought a property.

Previously, all a home buyer had to do was file a form that said they'd purchased a property. No proof was required. As a result, there were thousands of reports of fraud. This time around, the IRS is seeking ways to force home buyers to prove their eligibility.

Mary Mellem of David & Mary Mellem, EAs & Ashwaubenon Tax Professionals, says it probably will be another three months before the problem is resolved.

Source: CNNMoney.com, Les Christie (10/14/2010)

Lots of signs point to a recovery in the construction industry.

With help from a federal tax break, both Lennar Corp. and KB Home posted fourth-quarter profits – the first time since 2007 that either has been in the black.

KB Home CEO Jeffrey Mezger said in a statement: "There are indications that housing market conditions may be stabilizing in some regions, reflecting, among other things, relatively high levels of affordability.”

Other signs that things are getting better:

• Residential investment increased 18.9 percent in the third quarter on a seasonally adjusted basis compared with the second quarter, according to the U.S. Commerce Department"s Bureau of Economic Analysis. It was the first increase in residential investment since the fourth quarter of 2005, the government said.
• Both KB Home and Lennar are buying land.
• As sales increase, both have reduced incentives they have been offering buyers.
• Mezger says KB is increasing prices.

Located on Westwind Way at the corner of Magarity and Anderson street in McLean, Virginia, the Westerlies is a 200 unit condominium complex situated near Tyson's Corner Shopping Center. The Westerlies are known as a contemporary and fresh community of townhouses throughout the McLean neighborhood. The Westerlies condominiums feature a variety of floor plans including 2 to 3 bedrooms as well as 1 to 2 full bathrooms. The layout of these townhouses offer an abundance of natural lighting and in many units most of the rooms are flooded by daylight. 

At the Westerlies, all of the exterior maintenance is included in the owner's monthly condo fees which is a money and time saving bonus for buyers who may not want to deal with the upkeep of a house. Other features include quick and easy access to all major highways such as I-495, Route 7, and the Dulles Airport Toll Road; and the West Falls Church Metro is approximately a mile away. Condo units feature high windows, kitchens with granite countertops, soaking tubs in the bathrooms, private decks, and most units are 2 levels. Finally, the Westerlies property also includes an outdoor pool, a children's playground, and a basketball court. Between the size, features, and floor plans of the Westerlies condominiums, as well as the great neighborhood that surrounds them, this condo community is a highly desirable place to live in Northern Virginia. 

The Federal Reserve should continue to buy mortgage-backed securities past its self-set deadline of April 1, James Bullard, president of Fed Bank of St. Louis, told an audience in Shanghai on Monday.

Bullard argued that the Fed should continue the purchases "at a low level initially" and monitor the result to determine whether it needs to increase the purchases to add more liquidity --- and stability --- to the market.

Bullard also said the Fed Open Market Committee will discuss the issue at its meeting later this month.

The Earth Advantage Institute, a non-profit that certifies sustainable homes, identified these green-building trends, based on its relationships with builders, architects, real estate practitioners, and lenders.

Read the whole list here.

• Smart grid and connected homes. The development of custom and Web-based display panels that show real-time home energy use, broken out by individual appliance will increasingly drive consumer behavior.
  
  
• Energy labeling for homes and office buildings. Accurate energy rating systems for homes and office spaces will make it easier for home owners and buyers to compare and could galvanize owners to make needed energy improvements.
  
  
• Building information modeling software. The increasing sophistication and lowered cost of CAD software with more accurate algorithms for energy modeling will encourage greater use.
  
  
• Financial community buy-in to green building. Lenders and insurers will get behind green building because it’s good for their bottom lines.
  
  
• "Rightsizing" of homes. A larger home no longer translates into greater equity.
  
  
• Eco-districts. The creation of walkable, low-impact communities in the suburban setting is gaining steam.
  
  
• Water conservation. The Environmental Protection Agency finalized the voluntary WaterSense specification for new homes in December of 2009, which reduces water use by about 20 percent compared to a conventional new home. Water will be the essential resource in the next decade.
  
  
• Carbon Calculation. With buildings contributing roughly half the carbon emissions in the environment, the progressive elements in the building industry are looking at ways to document, measure, and reduce greenhouse gas creation in building materials and processes. This effort will be heightened once a federal cap-and-trade mechanism is launched in this country.
  
  
• Net Zero Buildings. A net zero building is a building that generates more energy than it uses over the course of a year, as a result of relatively small size, extreme efficiencies and onsite renewable energy sources. We are close to being able to do this routinely.
  
  
• Sustainable building education. This will create opportunities for professionals involved in the building industry, from real estate to finance and insurance.
  
  

Source: Earth Advantage Institute (01/08/2010)

The Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden is located at the corner of North Lexington and Wilson Boulevard, at 850 North Lexington Street in Arlington, Virginia. This scenic and serene rose and botanical garden occupies approximately one acre of land and features over 135 different rose varieties and houses 2,500 plant species as well. Featured roses include Hybrid Tea, Grandiflora, Floribunda, and miniature roses. The garden also hosts the latest All-American roses annually, showcasing the newest variety of roses at least one year before they become commercially available.

Bon Air Memorial Park also features an azalea garden, a shade garden, a sun garden, and an ornamental garden. Other amenities include picnic tables, charcoal grills, a babbling spring stream, a paved walking trail, tennis and basketball courts, an additional children's playground. Cultural advice and guidance for the rose garden is provided by the Arlington Rose Foundation. Call (703) 358-4747 for more information.

This beautiful and fascinating garden is a brilliant and colorful local resource that truly proves Virginia is for lovers! Whether you are a botanical aficionado or an individual who simply wants to stop and smell the roses, the Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden is a must see this spring in Northern Virginia. Park hours are from Sunrise until half an hour after Sunset throughout the year. 

Upton Hill Regional Park, located at 6060 Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, Virginia, offers local residents and visitors alike a versatile, wooded recreational commons in the heart of one of the most densely populated areas of Northern Virginia. The park features an outdoor swimming pool complex that includes a lap pool, a full-sized recreational pool, a separate kiddie pool, multiple water slides, and a children's water house with a huge bucket that fills up with water and empties out onto everyone in its path!! The park also features a deluxe miniature golf course as well as batting cages that include baseball and softball both.

Although the park facilities are presently closed for the winter season, the park itself remains open every day for hiking, picnicking, and playing on the playground. The batting cages and mini-golf facilities will reopen for the season in March of 2010. The water park and swimming pool complex will reopen Memorial Day weekend. In addition, Upton Hill Regional Park hosts and annual Easter Egg Hunt in early March and welcomes the whole family to come and join in the festivities. Children can enjoy hunting for eggs filled with candy as well as a moon bounce, coloring, and other games. The Easter Egg Hunt is recommended for children ages 2 through 10 and reservations are required. Call 703-534-3437 for more information or to make reservations.

Located between the Arlington and Fairfax County line at the intersection of Patrick Henry Drive and Wilson Boulevard, Upton Hill Regional Park is a great venue with a wide range of activities that provide fun for the whole family! In 2007, the Park's facilities underwent a $2 million renovation as part of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority's effort to attract local residents and visitors to an innovative, public facility representative of both the area and the local governments' commitment to its community.  

The McLean House Condominiums are located in the heart of McLean, Virginia, and are one of the areas most sought after condo communities. Located at 6800 Fleetwood Road in McLean, this condominium community is a premier location in a unique area of Fairfax County in Northern Virginia. The McLean House Condominiums are located conveniently close to both the Langley and McLean Shopping Centers, and the surrounding neighborhood is home to a wide variety of restaurants, parks, banking centers, and grocery stores.

The McLean House feature gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, specialized track lighting, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, walk-in closets, balconies, and a washer and dryer in each unit. Other facilities include basketball and tennis courts, a beauty salon, an exercise room, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour security desk in the main lobby. The McLean House is located within a short driving distance of many of the areas major highways including I-495, the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and Chain Bridge Road. The McLean House Condominiums provide quick and easy access to a multiplicity of business and retail centers while also maintaining a calm, suburban appeal, making this condo community an ideal residential location in Northern Virginia.  

River Towers is home to at least two very talented young artists, and I've had the privilege to have the parents of both as clients.

1. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help you determine your buying power -- that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity. If you give a Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) some basic information about your available savings, income and current debt, he or she can refer you to lenders best qualified to help you. Most lenders -- banks and mortgage companies -- offer limited choices.

2. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) has many resources to assist you in your home search. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your agent to find all available properties.

3. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. Agents who are Condo Alexandria Realtors(r) have access to a variety of informational resources. Condo Alexandria Realtors(r) can provide local community information on utilities, zoning. schools, etc. There are two things you'll want to know. First, will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?

4. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help you negotiate. There are myriad negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession and often the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. The purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required.

5. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do most of these investigations and provide you with written reports. You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements (access rights) for utilities. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r), title company or attorney can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date.

6. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help you in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders.

7. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.

8. When selling your home, your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the price, financing, terms and condition of competing properties. These are key factors in getting your property sold at the best price, quickly and with minimum hassle.

9. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. Often, your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can recommend repairs or cosmetic work that will significantly enhance the salability of your property. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. In many markets across the country, over 50% of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) acts as the marketing coordinator, disbursing information about your property to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service or other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, etc. The Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) Code of Ethics requires Condo Alexandria RealtorS(r) to utilize these cooperative relationships when they benefit their clients.

10. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) will know when, where and how to advertise your property. There is a misconception that advertising sells real estate. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF Condo Alexandria RealtorS(r) studies show that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, family and personal contacts. When a property is marketed with the help of your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r), you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.

11. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help you objectively evaluate every buyer's proposal without compromising your marketing position. This initial agreement is only the beginning of a process of appraisals, inspections and financing -- a lot of possible pitfalls. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help you write a legally binding, win-win agreement that will be more likely to make it through the process.

12. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) can help close the sale of your home. Between the initial sales agreement and closing (or settlement), questions may arise. For example, unexpected repairs are required to obtain financing or a cloud in the title is discovered. The required paperwork alone is overwhelming for most sellers. Your Condo Alexandria Realtor(r) is the best person to objectively help you resolve these issues and move the transaction to closing (or settlement).

All real estate licensees are not the same. Only real estate licensees who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(r) are properly called REALTORS(r). They proudly display the REALTOR "(r)" logo on the business card or other marketing and sales literature. All agents and brokers at Condo Alexandria are Realtors. REALTORS(r) are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. REALTORS(r) subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate. An independent survey reports that 84% of home buyers would use the same REALTOR(r) again.

Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Transactions today usually exceed $100,000. If you had a $100,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a CPA? If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be foolish to consider a deal in real estate without the professional assistance of a REALTOR(r).

But if you're still not convinced of the value of a REALTOR(r), here are a dozen more reasons to use a Realtor from Condo Alexandria.

If you spend a weekend creating a financial plan for your home now, it could save you money in the long run. Image: Veer

You probably already have a financial plan for yourself in place. Most likely you sat down with an advisor at some point to set up a budget and diversify your investments. Or maybe you did it yourself online or at the dining room table. Either way, smart move.

But what about your home specifically, probably the biggest investment you'll ever make in your life? Did you really take everything into account: repairs and upgrades, the mortgage, insurance, and taxes? Probably not.

Your house requires a financial plan of its own. Spend a weekend creating one. Once you have a handle on your home's expenses you can devise a long-term strategy that'll let you live there for years with maximum enjoyment and minimum anxiety. These are the four central elements you need to address.

The mortgage: Paying it---and then some

Yes, you already shell out a lot for your mortgage, but can you pay more? Even a little extra each month can add up. Let's say you have $200,000 outstanding principal and a 20-year fixed-rate mortgage at 5%. Your monthly payment is $1,319.91. But if you can manage to pay another $100 a month, you'll save $14,887 in interest. Run the numbers for yourself.

Alan D. Kahn, a financial planner in Syosset, N.Y., likes the idea of early payoff because lowering debt leaves you free to spend money elsewhere later on. There's an emotional benefit as well. It can feel awfully good to own your house outright as soon as possible. And don't fret too much about losing the mortgage interest deduction come tax time. Toward the tail end of the life of a loan most of your payment is going to the principal, not the interest.

Nevertheless, the same extra $100 might also go into a retirement plan every month, or be put aside for the inevitable home repairs (more on those later). Michael Kay, a financial planner in Livingston, N.J., says while a debt-free life may be enormously important to your peace of mind, an extra $1,200 toward your child's college fund every year may feel even better. It's about what's ultimately important to you, both emotionally and financially.

Insurance: Protecting your property

You'll want homeowners insurance with full replacement coverage in case your house is burned to the ground. This sounds simple, but be careful on the calculation. Remember that you own a house as well as the land on which it sits. So even though you bought your home for $300,000, it may cost only $100,000 to rebuild it. Your policy limits should reflect this.

The differences are regional. Where land is at a premium, like much of Southern California, a higher percentage of the purchase cost is for the property rather than the structure. Where land is cheap, like much of North Dakota, most of the value of a new house is the house itself. Don't be deceived by shifts in market values. You may have bought a $1.2 million townhouse in Florida during the boom that now may only sell for $600,000. But the replacement cost of the townhouse hasn't changed much, so you can't cut insurance costs that way.

Do, however, try to cut costs by asking your insurance agent about discounts. Making structural improvements, such as adding storm shutters, can lead to lower rates. Membership is certain groups, such as AARP or veterans' organizations, entitles some policyholders to breaks on premiums as well.

Repairs and renovations: By choice or necessity

Throughout the life of your house, you'll be making two kinds of changes. The first is the fun kind, like a marble floor for the living room. The second is the essential, behind-the-scenes change: a new water heater. You don't have a choice about when you'll do the latter, but you can prepare for it financially.

It's a good idea to have a rainy-day fund. Start with the inspection report you received when you bought the house. Did the inspector indicate that you would need a new roof in five years? A new furnace in 10? Get estimates on what these repairs will cost and start saving. Consider ongoing non-emergency maintenance too. Do you live in New England? Price a snow blower and get bids from plow services. Resist the temptation to take care of everything with home equity loans, which defeat efforts to pay off the mortgage early.

As for the discretionary upgrades, act prudently. Matthew P. Havens, a financial planner in Hingham, Mass., has seen too many people rationalizing lavish upgrades as an investment when they really were lifestyle decisions. According to Remodeling magazine, an upscale major kitchen upgrade, for example, could cost nearly $112,000, but only about 63% of that will be recouped in the home's resale value. This isn't to say you shouldn't upgrade. If you can afford to redo your bathrooms, go ahead. Just don't confuse your necessary repairs (new oil furnace---about $4,000) with your discretionary upgrades (Viking range---$6,000 and up).

Taxes: (Almost) no way around them

Taxes are an essential part of your home's financial plan. The bank that holds your mortgage may already handle your real estate taxes with an escrow account. If so the expense is built into your monthly mortgage payment. Check your statements or call the lender. Otherwise create a dedicated fund for property taxes, which can run into the thousands of dollars annually.

You may be able to reduce your tax burden by getting a reassessment. Do your homework first. Are comparable houses taxed less than yours? Ask the local assessor what formula is used to set tax rates. Kay, the New Jersey financial planner, researched and then challenged the assessed value of his own home and got a 15% rollback.

If you're in a special group, you might get some help from state or local programs. Check around to see what's available in your area. New York State, for example, has its Star Program for giving senior citizens some relief from school-related property taxes.

Richard J. Koreto is a freelance writer. He has been editor of several professional financial magazines and is the author of "Run It Like a Business," a practice management book for financial planners. He and his wife own a pre-Civil War house in Rockland County, N.Y.

If you own rental property, you probably should consider a property manager. If you don't know the answers to these questions, then you should definitely contact us to find out more about our property management services.

• What is the proper procedure for filing a notice to pay rent?
  
  
• What notices can permissibly be served to a tenant under the terms of a lease?
  
  
• What important legislation is looming on the horizon regarding debt collection?
  
  
• By law, what is the maximum security deposit you can collect in Virginia?
  
  
• What rights do you have (or not have) regarding pets on your property?
  
  
• What amenities are included (or not included) with your property?
  
  
• What are the latest fair credit reporting rules and requirements?
  
  
• What are the Federal and/or State laws that govern fair housing?
  
  
• What questions are you NOT allowed to ask on an application?
  
  
• What laws apply to abandoned personal property left behind by a tenant?

I just wrote this email in response to a request from a client who is referring my services to a friend. I wrote:

If you have a friend who is looking for easy metro access, a 3 bedroom home and only wants to spend about $300k to $350k  it will be tough. But here are my best suggestions:

http://condos-and-homes.com/listings-amberleigh.asp

Many homes at Amberleigh are within walking distance of the Springfield Franconia Metro.  Kingstowne and Manchester Lakes might work too.

The Huntington Metro is also an option at with homes at Bucknell Manor and the Fort Hunt area. This is a traditional 1950’s neighborhood with lots of trees and good schools.  Huntington Metro has 4500 parking spaces, so it’s a great metro to live close to because you can park and ride.

http://fort-hunt.info/map-bucknell.asp

I also like parts of Franconia near Van Dorn but there is no parking at the Van Dorn Metro. Springfield and Burke are quite suburban but there is parking at the Franconia Springfield Metro.

I doubt you can find anything in Alexandria or Arlington that comes close to fitting in your budget. It’s possible to find home not far from the Vienna Metro.  If you head further out towards Centreville and Oakton you can might find a home that suits you and you can drive to park at the Vienna Metro.

http://www.condo-alexandria.com/vienna-metro.asp

Lastly, I’ve built a page that focuses on homes that are near the metro. You might want to look this over.

http://www.condos-and-homes.com/selected-search-metro.asp

Sincerely,

Will Nesbitt

Principal Broker

703 765 0300

Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC

Alexandria VA

Check what's available now.

Here's a price report based on the last two years of sales and rentals as of 1/4/2010. Each report contains the median price along with high and low over the period. All figures are approximations and should not be used to judge final sales values.

Unit Type	For Sale	Condo Fees	Rental
One Bedroom, 900 sf	244,500 (223,000 to 248,000)	324 to 380	1400 (1100 to 1500)
Two Bedroom, 1475 sf	346,000 (289,000 to 369,000)	460 to 570	1750 (1500 to 2200)
Three Bedroom, 1260 to 1410 sf	375,000 (357,000 to 402,500)	440 to 515	2,350 (2,300 to 2,400)

Westbriar is located at on Bellforest and Carnegie Hall Ct with easy access to Route 66, Route 50, and I-495 in Vienna, VA. Westbriar was built in 2001, it's a 20 minute commute to D.C.

Amenities include:

• Security
• Open Space
• Outdoor pool
• Party/Club Room
• Garage Parking
• In Unit Washer/Dryer
• Water included in condo fee
• Gas Heat
• Central A/C
• Gas Hot Water Heater
• Walking distance to Dunn-Loring Metro

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.

1. Gated community
    There is no "cut-thru" traffic. Twenty-four hour guards maintain security at the gates.
2. Beautiful Grounds
    Over thirty acres of trails, woods and well tended grounds.
3. Walk to Metro
    A short patch connects Montebello to the Huntington Metro.
4. Community Center
    Enjoy swimming, work-outs, and other activities on the community center .
5. Clubhouse
    Dinner and lunch are served in the clubhouse.
6. Market
    The community of Montebello would not be complete without a market.
7. On-site Drycleaner
    In addition to in-unit laundry facilities, every resident at Montebello has access to a community dry cleaner.
8. Balcony
    Every unit at Montebello has its own balcony---the perfect place to watch the sun rise or set.
9. Walking trails
    Take an afternoon stroll along the Montebello's perimeter or venture along the nearby park trails.

To see what's available for sale right now at Montebello check here.

Check what's available now.

Here's a price report based on the last two years of sales and rentals as of 1/5/2010. Each report contains the median price along with high and low over the period. All figures are approximations and should not be used to judge final sales values.

Unit Type	For Sale	Condo Fees	Rental
One Bedroom, 705 to 830 sf	250,000 (198,000 to 325,000)	270 to 325	1375 (1300 to 1450)
Two Bedroom, 1150 sf	320,500 (277,000 to 376,000)	367 to 407	1875 (1500 to 2450)

Halstead at the Metro is located at 2655 Prosperity Ave in Fairfax, VA. With easy access to I-495/I-95, Route 50 and I-66. The Halstead at the Metro was built 2006, they're a 15 minute commute to D.C, and are across the street from the Dunn Loring Metro stop.

Amenities include:

• 24 Hour Security
• Indoor basketball courts
• Outdoor pool
• Gym
• Party/Club Room
• Garage Parking
• In Unit Washer/Dryer
• Water included in condo fee
• Gas Heat
• Central A/C
• Extra Storage
• Gas Hot Water Heater
• Walking distance to Metro
• Contemporary design

View Larger Map

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.

Consider comparables.

What have other homes in your neighborhood sold for recently? How do they compare to yours in terms of size, upkeep, and amenities? If you live in Old Town Alexandria, it's important to look at what homes have sold for in Old Town Alexandria. If you live in Kingstowne look at sales prices of similar homes in Kingstowne. Also, understand the distinction between sales price and listing price. When looking at comparables, the sales price is what the home actually sold for.

Consider competition.

How many other houses are for sale in your area? What condos are for sale in your building? Are you competing against new homes? Are they building a brand new condominium across the street? In this case the listing price is what other people are asking for their homes. I hate to be the one to tell you, but no one cares what you paid for your home. Whether you paid too much or too little, the price is still governed by homes listed for sale now and homes that have sold.

Consider your contingencies.

Do you have special concerns that would affect the price you'll receive? For example, do you want to be able to move in four months? The more hoops you expect to put your buyer through, the lower price you can expect. This is true for buyers moving to the area to work at the Pentagon or for tech savvy buyers working in Tysons Corner.

Get an appraisal.

For a few hundred dollars, a qualified appraiser can give you an estimate of your home's value. Your Condo Alexandria REALTOR® can make some recommendations, or if you prefer at no charge we can prepare a comparative market analysis to see what you home might sell for. We'll take a look at homes that are for sale now and similar homes that have sold recently.

Be accurate.

Studies show that homes priced more than 3 percent over the correct price take longer to sell. This is probably even more true now that we are in a buyer's market.

Know what you'll take.

In the end, it's critical to know what price you'll accept before beginning a negotiation with a buyer.

It's hard to tell exactly what will sell your home. But it's fairly easy to spot things that will prevent your house or condo in Northern Virginia from selling. Whenever possible, follow these tips for the maximum impact.

1. Remove clutter and clear off counters. Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don't forget to clean out the garage, too.

2. Wash your windows and screens. This will help get more light into the interior of the home.

3. Keep everything extra clean. A clean house will make a strong first impression and send a message to buyers that the home has been well-cared for. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, mop and wax floors, and clean the stove and refrigerator. Polish your doorknobs and address numbers. It's worth hiring a cleaning service if you can afford it.

4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows to air out the house. Potpourri or scented candles will help.

5. Brighten your rooms. Put higher wattage bulbs in light fixtures to brighten up rooms and basements. Replace any burned-out bulbs in closets. Clean the walls, or better yet, brush on a fresh coat of neutral color paint.

6. Don't disregard minor repairs. Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they'll give buyers the impression that the house isn't well-maintained.

7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. For added curb appeal, place a pot of bright flowers near the entryway.

8. Patch holes. Repair any holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable.

9. Add a touch of color in the living room. A colored afghan or throw on the couch will jazz up a dull room. Buy new accent pillows for the sofa.

10. Buy a flowering plant and put it near a window you pass by frequently.

11. Make centerpieces for your tables. Use brightly colored fruit or flowers.

12. Set the scene. Set the table with fancy dishes and candles, and create other vignettes throughout the home to help buyers picture living there. For example, in the basement you might display a chess game in progress.

13. Replace heavy curtains with sheer ones that let in more light. Show off the view if you have one.

14. Accentuate the fireplace. Lay fresh logs in the fireplace or put a basket of flowers there if it's not in use.

15. Make the bathrooms feel luxurious. Put away those old towels and toothbrushes. When buyers enter your bathroom, they should feel pampered. Add a new shower curtain, new towels, and fancy guest soaps. Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight.

16. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that's not possible, crate them or confine them to one room (ideally in the basement), and let the real estate practitioner know where they'll be to eliminate surprises.

17. Lock up valuables, jewelry, and money. While a real estate salesperson will be on site during the showing or open house, it's impossible to watch everyone all the time.

18. Leave the home. It's usually best if the sellers are not at home. It's awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there.

The Alexandria Fun with Friends group is getting together for some light gaming fun at the Club Room again. Friends and newcomers alike are welcome. Attendees are invited to please bring your favorite games and be ready to teach or just bring an open mind and be ready to learn. 

The group will mainly be playing what they call "Eurogames". Although these games come from all over now, the first of this genre started in Europe, thus the name. Typically Eurogames are easy to learn, fast to play and the game is about collecting points of some kind rather than eliminating your opponent. This is different from classic American games like Risk or Monopoly where the game can last for hours and the goal of the game is to conquer or crush your opponent. Of course, card games, Scrabble and other old favorites are always welcome.

Our food theme this time around: healthy snacks! There is no charge for the event, but attendees are asked to bring fruit or a veggie tray or something creative (but healthy). Please bring a drink to share.

This is as much about the socializing as it is about the gaming. The organize says, "If you've never been to one of our gaming get-togethers the mood is casual and relaxed. We welcome new folks and we're happy to see old friends. We hope to see you there!"

BTW, the Greater Washington DC RPG group is meeting at the same venue at 2 pm and will be wrapping up just as the Alexandria Fun with Friends group starts up. Some of them might linger through our meet-up. Those of you who wish to may come early for their meetup.

Check what's available now.

Here's a price report based on the last two years of sales and rentals as of 1/4/2010. Each report contains the median price along with high and low over the period. All figures are approximations and should not be used to judge final sales values.

Unit Type	For Sale	Condo Fees	Rental
One Bedroom, 750 to 870 sf	365,500 (350,000 to 385,000)	310-350	1700 (1550 to 1900)
Two Bedroom, 930 to 1160 sf	450,000 (378,300 to 550,000)	390 to 500	2250 (1900 to 3600)
Three Bedroom, 1605 to 1860 sf	740,000 (560,000 to 790,000)	695 to 815	3,250 (2,750 to 3,500)

Carlyle Towers is located at 2121, 2151, 2181 Jamieson Ave between Eisenhower Ave and Duke Street in Alexandria, VA. With easy access to I-495/I-95, Route 1, the GW Parkway, and 395. The three Carlyle Towers were built in the 1997, 1999, and 2001, they're a 15 minute commute to D.C.

Amenities include:

• 24 Hour Security
• Storage Space
• Outdoor pool
• Gym
• Party Room
• Tennis Courts
• Putting greens
• Balconies
• Garage Parking
• In Unit Washer/Dryer
• Gas and Water utilities included in condo fee
• Electric Heat Pump
• Central A/C
• Gas Hot Water Heater
• Walking distance to Metro

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.

1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.

2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.

3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you'd like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.

4. Start saving.Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don't forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs --- including taxes, attorney's fee, and transfer fees --- average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price.

5. Get your credit in order.Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provides a history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.

6. Determine your mortgage qualifications.How large of mortgage do you qualify for? Also, explore different loan options --- such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMs --- and decide what's best for you.

7. Get preapproved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.

8. Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you've saved to buy your fist home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal.

9. Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.

10. Contact a REALTOR®. Find an experienced REALTOR® who can help guide you through the process.

Want to compare Old Town to Crystal City? I can tell you there are huge differences in the lifestyles, the types of homes and the commutes in these two neighboring villages. But I can't really quantify that information. Fortunately, I don't have to. Our site has a great tool for researching and comparing neighborhoods, with information about schools, education, incomes, age of homes and more.

In the meantime, over the next few days I expect to run a few reports and publish them to give you an idea of what you can learn about neighborhoods of Northern Virginia. By the way, what's nice about this system is that you can use it to compare any neighborhoods in North America. See how Lansing stacks up to Fairfax, or how Falls Church does vs. Peoria. The research engine is here.

22202 (Crystal City)

22314 (Old Town)

This is just one of many stats that you can research and compare on our site, and this one alone is quite telling on the neighborhoods of Crystal City and Old Town. Crystal City is 22202 and Old Town (plus the Carlyle District) is 22314.

22202 (Crystal City)

22314 (Old Town)

This statistic actually doesn't give Old Town Alexandria its full historical range. Many homes in Old Town are older than 80 years of age. But Old Town has a suprising number of new homes as well. Crystal City is definitely younger.

22314 (Old Town)

22314 (Old Town)

22202 (Crystal City)

22202 (Crystal City)

Crystal City and Old Town are both leaders in household income, though perhaps Old Town is a bit more affluent. (Perhaps this is why there are more owners in Old Town?)

Can you see yourself in here?

Active home search (median):

• Number of weeks searched: 10
• Number of homes seen: 10

First-Time vs. Repeat Buyers:

• First-time buyers: 41%
• Repeat buyers: 59%
• Median age of first-time buyers: 30
• Median age of repeat buyers: 47

Buyers who definitely would use same agent again: 70%

Actions taken as result of Internet home search: 

• Drove by/viewed a home: 77%
• Walked through a home viewed online: 63%
• Found agent used to search/buy home: 27%

Information sources used in home search: 

• Internet: 87%
• Real estate agent: 85%
• Yard sign: 62%
• Open house: 48%
• Newspaper ad: 47%
• Home book or magazine: 30%

Source: 2008 National Association of REALTORS(r) Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

Local Outlook Strong

SAN FRANCISCO---Next year may be to appliance buyers what 2009 was to car buyers: time for government rebates.

Modeled after the popular Cash for Clunkers program, which was intended to get cars with low gas mileage off the road, a federal appliance rebate program is launching in early 2010. It offers a boost to people buying energy-efficient clothes washers, refrigerators and other appliances---those that qualify for the federal "Energy Star" designation---and to manufacturers, whose sales fell 10% in 2008 and another 12% through mid-December this year.

The program has only $300 million, one-tenth as much money as Cash for Clunkers, or about $1 per U.S resident, so it could run out fast. States are receiving roughly the same amount per capita, with California getting the most at $35.2 million, but what's eligible varies by state.

Here's what to keep in mind as you decide whether to swap your washer for that supposedly whisper-quiet model or your old white refrigerator for a shapely stainless-steel number.

What's my state offering?

For state by state information, visit the federal website http://energysavers.gov and click on "state appliance rebate program" on the right.

California residents, for example, can get cash back on three types of appliances: $100 for washing machines, $75 for refrigerators and $50 for room air conditioners. Wisconsin offers rebates on washers and fridges plus $200 for boilers or furnaces, $75 for central air conditioning or geothermal heat pumps, $50 for freezers and $25 for dishwashers.

(Also in effect through Dec. 31, 2010, is a federal tax credit for 30% of the cost up to $1,500 on equipment for a primary residence.)

How do I know it's a deal?

Joe McGuire, president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, said buying Energy Star appliances can mean hearty power savings. But it's important to make sure you save enough in water and energy bills over time to justify paying for a new unit.

"A good example is a 10-year-old clothes washer," he said. "With Energy Star, you could reduce utility costs by $145 a year and save 5,000 gallons of water a year."

At that rate, a typical $500 to $700 dishwasher would pay for itself in four years. In larger households that use more power and water for laundry, the payoff can come much sooner.

It's probably not worth replacing appliances less than five to seven years old just because rebates are available, unless you plan to upgrade to a far more efficient model. That's because newer appliances are already more efficient. But switching from a top-loading to front-loading clothes washer could in itself cut water use enough to make a purchase worthwhile.

The older the appliance, the greater the possibility of saving money by buying a new one. McGuire says a 20-year-old refrigerator uses three times as much power as Energy Star-approved units made today, some of which run on less than 60 watts.

"You would save over $250 a year on an average 20-year-old refrigerator if you replaced it," McGuire said. "That's about $1,200 over five years. That is real savings to consumers."

The Department of Energy estimates Americans saved more than $19 billion on utilities last year using Energy Star products.

When will it end?

Rebates will be available until February 2012 or the money's gone. And Jen Stutsman, a spokeswoman for the Department of Energy, expects the funds to run out fast.

Source: Associated Press/AP Online

Thanks to innovative new technology, today's super-efficient low-flow showerheads save water, reduce your energy bills, and still feel good to use.

You've heard it for years: Save water by replacing your old showerhead with a low-flow model. But if you're like a lot of people, you may have ignored the message. That's because you're likely thinking of the early low-flow versions, which worked by simply restricting output or pumping the stream full of air. While that saved water, it didn't make for a very satisfying shower experience. These days, thank goodness, it's different. With one of the new generation of ultra-efficient showerheads, you can reduce shower water use---and energy consumption, since we're talking about water you pay to heat---by up to 50% while still enjoying a luxurious, powerful spray.

New technologies, bigger savings

Before 1992, showerheads pumped out five or more gallons per minute (gpm), accounting for nearly 20% of indoor water use. Federal law cut that to 2.5 gallons, but the latest water-saving models do better still. Borrowing windshield-sprayer technology from the automotive industry, Delta's H2Okinetic Technology manipulates droplet size and direction to make only 1.6 gpm feel drenching. That's a 36% reduction over a standard low-flow showerhead. Bricor uses a patented vacuum chamber that aerates and compacts water under pressure to deliver an intense blast with 1.25 gpm or less. Other manufacturers use laminar flow, which puts out dozens of parallel streams instead of an aerated spray, creating the sensation of more water. The type you choose depends on personal preference, but at $50 to $200, any of these can quickly pay for themselves in reduced water-heating costs. You may even be able to score one for free with a rebate through your local utility.

To measure your shower's flow, put a bucket marked in gallon increments under the spray. If the water reaches the one-gallon mark in less than 20 seconds, you could benefit from a low-flow showerhead.

First, check your plumbing

While replacing your existing showerhead with one of these super-high-efficiency models can be as easy as screwing in a light bulb, it's a good idea to first assess your plumbing. The big concern is the potential for scalding or getting hit with an icy blast. Because less water is flowing through the showerhead, sudden fluctuations in temperature can be more extreme.

Homes built after the mid-1990s usually have an automatic temperature compensating (ATC) valve installed as part of the shower plumbing inside the wall. These protect against rapid changes in temperature---say when the dishwasher cycles or a maniacal sibling keeps flushing the toilet. Quick check: If your shower has an old two-handle faucet, chances are it does not have an ATC valve. (Neither do most new two-handle systems.) In that case, simply sticking on a low-flow showerhead to save water is a bad idea. "The only appropriate way to retrofit a shower with a two-handle faucet is to eliminate the outdated faucet and install a new valve and showerhead," says Shawn Martin, technical director of the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute. 

Even then, you can't be absolutely certain that the valve will work properly with an ultra-low-flow showerhead. That's because most ATC valves are certified for the current standard flow rate of 2.5 gpm. While it's expected that soon all new valves will be certified to 2.0 gpm, your best bet, if you're installing a new valve and showerhead now, is to buy them from the same manufacturer so you'll know they're designed to work together.

By early 2010, the EPA plans to start putting WaterSense labels on showerheads the way they have for toilets. Then it will be easier to identify the models that offer the biggest water savings and the best performance.

Other ways to pump up shower efficiency

In addition to offering low-flow nozzles, manufacturers have come up with other ways to make showering more efficient. Neco, an Australian company that specializes in sustainable products, has a thumb-adjusted volume control on its Rainmaker head. A few high-end models feature "pause" buttons that let you to stop and restart the water at the same temperature---perfect for taking a Navy shower. That's when you wet yourself down, turn off the water while you lather up, and then turn it back on to rinse. Common practice on naval ships, where fresh water supplies are limited, this technique uses as little as 3 gallons, compared with the typical "Hollywood shower" that uses 60 gallons every 10 minutes. That amounts to a savings of 15,000 gallons a year per person.

Of course, the danger of all these new low-flow showerheads is that you'll be tempted to linger too long in your own private Niagara. Several companies have come out with shower timers to nudge habitual drenchers. The Shower Manager cuts the taps when time's up, and Eco Drop Shower, a stall unit by Italian designer Tommaso Colia, purports to save water not from the top down but from the bottom up. As you shower, a pattern of concentric circles embedded in the floor rises up to the point of discomfort, forcing you to exit. Just make sure to turn off the water first.

Laura Fisher Kaiser is a contributing editor to Interior Design magazine and a former editor at This Old House Magazine. A Navy brat, she feels guilty for not taking Navy showers. 

The Midtown Station Alexandria is a high-rise condominium community just outside Old Town Alexandria. The Midtowns is located on Huntington Avenue directly across the street from the lower entrance to the Huntington Metro. This proximity to the metro means that you can access many of Northern Virginia and DC's best attractions without moving your vehicle. These condos are one metro stop from the AMC Hoffman at Eisenhower Metro and two stops from King St. at Old Town. In Old Town the King Street Trolley (free) can drop you off anywhere between the Metro and the Potomac.

The Midtowns is a beautiful building with excellent vistas. It's on the Metro and close to I-495 (the Beltway). There are bargains to be found here, but you have to know where to look. Although the Midtowns still has an on-site staff for sales of new condos, the on-site staff will not show you any pre-owned condos at the Midtowns. If you're thinking of buying a brand new condo you might find this article by the Boston Condo Guy helpful. The short story is that having you're own representation doesn't cost you anything, so you would do well to contact Will Nesbitt of Condo 1 Alexandria to tour the property at any time.

The hallmarks of a Midtown condo are expansive windows, many with pleasant city, river and sunset views. The kitchen features Italian cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and gas cooking. Berber carpeting is standard as are the stylish and modern light fixtures. The bathroom has equally stylish fixtures with generous oversize tubs. Many units have built-in computer nooks.

The common areas are very sleek and stylish with broad hallways and tiled floors. The club room has an amazing city view and is well-proportioned with stylish furnishings. There is a rooftop deck (half-way up the building) with recreational amenities such as propane grills, pool and shaded picnic tables. The focus of the rooftop deck is an expansive swimming pool with sundeck, Jacuzzi and beautiful landscaping. On the same level the fitness room is ready with tread mills, work out machines and more, all beside a wall of windows.

The lobby has a view of the Huntington Metro entrance and features a bright new cyber cafe with high-speed Internet access. The front desk is attended and access to the building and the garage is controlled. The garage has a structured parking scheme with reserved spaces and there is guest parking outside.

There are several condo communities in this neighborhood, the most obvious being the Huntington Club, the Hunting Creek Club and Montebello. All three developments are much older and somewhat cheaper. If you're seeking a bargain you probably will prefer the Huntington Club. Montebello offers a gated community and famed amenities. Hunting Creek Club offers views that equal or exceed the Midtowns in a structure that lacks the appeal and newness of the Midtowns.

• Self-search condos at Midtown or call Will Nesbitt with Condo 1 Alexandria at 703 765 0300.
  

The Basics: Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit 2009/2010

Bringing the Dream of Homeownership Within Reach

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed new legislation that:

• Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until April 30, 2010.
• Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.

Here is more information about how the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream. If you have specific questions or need additional information, please contact a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service at 800-829-1040.

Who Qualifies for the Extended Credit?

• First-time home buyers who purchase homes between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
  
• Current home owners purchasing a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight.

To qualify as a "first-time home buyer" the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.

If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see: 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.

Which Properties Are Eligible?

The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.

How Much Is Available?

The maximum allowable credit for first-time home buyers is $8,000.

The maximum allowable credit for current homeowners is $6,500.

How is a Buyer's Credit Amount Determined?

Each home buyer's tax credit is determined by two additional factors:

1. The price of the home.
2. The buyer's income.

Price

Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, credit may only be awarded on homes purchased for $800,000 or less.

Buyer Income

Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, which is effective on November 7, 2009,  single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000---may receive the maximum tax credit.

These income limits have changed from the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit limits. If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.

If the Buyer(s)' Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit?

Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit.

The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income---over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.

Can a Buyer Still Qualify If He/She Closes After April 30, 2010?

Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close.

Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid?

No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale

If you're considering buying a home in Old Town Alexandria, or if you're moving to an older neighborhood anywhere in Northern Virginia, you might want to consider this before taking on a historic preservation project.

Properties with historical significance may qualify for a tax credit worth 10% or 20% of the renovation costs. Image: Jon Skvarka, Rebuilding Together New Orleans

Tax breaks at the federal and state levels are available to homeowners to encourage the preservation of historic properties. The incentives range from tax credits that reduce dollar for dollar the amount you owe the IRS, to easements that can increase deductions and decrease estate and property taxes.

The tax rules are complicated---some incentives apply to investment properties only, while others include owner-occupied homes---but the financial rewards can be worth the effort. Be prepared to do significant research, file a lot of paperwork, and quite possibly seek out professional help.

Federal tax credits for historic investment properties

The federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program offers tax credits equal to either 10% or 20% of qualifying renovation costs. Depending on what you own, you may be eligible for one or the other, but not both. The main drawback is the tax credits don't apply to owner-occupied homes. Investment properties qualify, however.

The 20% tax credit is for properties certified as historic or in a historic district, as approved by the National Park Service. Although certification is a national program, owners have to go through their state historic preservation office. Eligible properties, including rowhouses and wood-framed homes, must be rehabilitated for commercial, industrial, agricultural, or rental residential purposes.

Essentially, a home has to be at least 50 years old with minimal changes from the past to be eligible for the 20% tax credit. It should be associated with important historic events or people, for example, or display significant aspects of architectural history. Renovation expenses must total at least $5,000.

The three-part certification process can be involved---and expensive. There's a $250 processing fee. A second fee, which can run as high as $2,500, is based on the total cost of the project and is due when the renovation is completed. Fees are waived for projects under $20,000. The initial review by the National Park Service and your state historic preservation office can take as long as 60 days.

But if you are certified and follow the technical guidelines, Uncle Sam essentially reimburses 20% of the cost of renovations. As NPS spokesman Michael Auer explains, if you spend $200,000, you reduce your tax liability by $40,000. You may be able to carry forward part of the tax credit to future years, or even back a year. Consult a tax adviser.

The 10% tax credit is for any structure built before 1936 that doesn't qualify as historic under the 20% program. The property can only be used for non-residential purposes. However, use as a hotel is considered commercial, not residential, so an old home converted to a bed-and-breakfast, for example, would likely be acceptable.

For either tax credit, use IRS Form 3468. Owners of historic properties should consider hiring a professional consultant to help with everything from architectural drawings and photographic documentation to accounting and paperwork. Needs will vary greatly. North Carolina's state historic preservation office estimates you may require a consultant's help for one to two weeks at a rate of between $50 and $100 per hour. Consulting and application fees alone can hit $10,000 or more.

State tax breaks for owner-occupied historic homes

Unlike the federal tax credits, which are limited to investment properties, many states offer incentives geared toward the preservation of owner-occupied historic homes. Check with your state historic preservation office.

In Virginia, for example, if your home is listed on the state and national registers of historic places---the two lists usually overlap---you can get a 25% state tax credit for approved renovation expenses. Homes that aren't individually listed but are located in historic districts may also qualify. Virginia has more than 400 historic districts.

Covered costs are spelled out in great detail. Virginia uses the same renovation standards as the National Park Service. If you fail to follow the guidelines, such as using materials that don't convey the proper visual appearance, you can lose the credit. Application fees can add up to as much as $3,000, depending on the total cost of a renovation.

Virginia also has an easements program, which in effect offers owners of historic properties tax incentives in exchange for signing away rights to alter the historic character of the properties. Easements are usually permanent and binding on all future owners.

There are considerable financial advantages. An easement will likely reduce a property's value, so you might be able to take the difference as a charitable deduction on your federal tax return. Your local property taxes will likely fall as well. Estate taxes could be lowered too, since the value of the property you leave to your heirs would've declined.

New York, too, has tax breaks specifically for owner-occupied historic houses. The state offers a tax credit worth 20% of qualified rehabilitation costs. Effective in 2010, the value of the credit can go as high as $50,000.

Homes must be owner-occupied and listed on the state or national register of historic places, either individually or as part of a historic district. The program is aimed at economically distressed areas. Among other stipulations, the project must cost more than $5,000 and be pre-approved by the state historic preservation office.

This article provides general information about tax laws and consequences, but is not intended to be relied upon by readers as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Readers should consult a tax professional for such advice, and are reminded that tax laws may vary by jurisdiction.

Richard J. Koreto is a freelance writer. He has been editor of several professional financial magazines and is the author of Run It Like a Business, a practice management book for financial planners. He and his wife own a pre-Civil War house in Rockland County, N.Y.

Although moisture problems can be a concern for basement finishes, there are many types of flooring that are ideal for basement applications. The key to successful basement flooring installations is to ensure that the basement is dry and that there is a smooth, flat surface for the new finish material.

Moisture and humidity

Because the floor of your basement is below grade and the lowest surface within your house, it requires special considerations before flooring can be installed. If your basement has ever been susceptible to water infiltration and flooding, those problems must be remedied before flooring is installed. Sealing your basement from water and moisture infiltration can cost from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars or more.

Humidity and condensation are other concerns. Because moist, humid air is heavy, it tends to sink to the lowest part of your house---your basement. There, warm, humid air can come in contact with relatively cool surfaces, such as a concrete slab floor, and condense. Keeping condensation in check during warm, humid months helps ensure that flooring remains stable and free from mold and mildew growth.

Most likely, your existing heating and cooling system is equipped with a dehumidifier that maintains relative humidity (RH) levels between 30% and 60%, which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and building codes recommend for a healthy indoor environment. A portable, plug-in unit for single-room use costs about $200 and includes a monitor to regulate the RH level.

Level floor surfaces

It's also critical to inspect your existing concrete basement floor and make adjustments for any noticeable slopes or flaws that might damage the new floor finish or affect its aesthetic appeal.

Patch or fill minor cracks and flaws with an elastomeric sealant made especially for concrete. A 10-ounce tube runs from about $4 to $10 at home improvement centers.

Use a 3-foot or longer bubble level to see if any sections of the floor slope more than a half-inch in 8 feet. Fill in low spots with a self-leveling compound, available at home improvement centers for about $30 for a 50-pound bag. For about $60 to $80 per day, rent a concrete sander to reduce high spots.

Tile backerboard, made from cement or fiber-reinforced gypsum, can be used as a subfloor over your basement slab to create a smooth, level surface. Backerboard can be glued down or held in place with concrete nails. Backerboard costs about $11 for a 4x5-foot sheet. Allowing for waste, expect to pay about $500 for enough backerboard to cover the floor of a 600 sq. ft. basement.

Once you have satisfied all potential moisture-related issues and created a smooth, level surface, you'll have many flooring choices for your basement retreat.

Carpeting

According to the NAHB Research Center's annual survey of builder practices, more than 28% of basement floors in newly built homes are finished with carpeting. "Most of our clients want carpet in the basement," says Sherrille Sabo, operations manager for COS Construction in Edwardsville, Ohio, a construction company that remodels about a half-dozen basements per year into finished living spaces. "It's warmer and adds a level of soundproofing."

Low-pile carpets such as Berber or other looped varieties show less wear than cut-looped or shag-like carpeting and are less expensive; all or partial nylon blends also are more durable and less costly than all-natural options.

Wall-to-wall carpeting is among the least expensive and easiest to install options for basement flooring. A mid-range nylon Berber carpet costs about $1 to $3 per sq. ft. With glued-down perimeter tack strips and a standard pad, plus professional labor, the cost to buy and install a new carpet is about $1,200 to $2,400 for a 600 sq. ft. basement.

If you've addressed any moisture issues in the basement but are still concerned about dampness or the chances that liquid spills or pet accidents may occur, consider a pad that is made to block moisture from either seeping up into the carpet or seeping down through the pad to the concrete floor. Moisture-resistant pads are about 70% more expensive than standard pads. They may reduce cleanup chores, but they will not solve chronic moisture problems.

Also, consider carpet tiles. Nylon pile 20-inch squares come in a variety of colors and styles and cost $2 to $4 per sq. ft. Most are made with integral pads and self-adhesive backings for easy, do-it-yourself installation.

Vinyl

Resilient vinyl flooring is durable, moisture-proof, and maintenance-free. Sheet vinyl comes in 12-foot-wide rolls that virtually eliminate seams. Self-sticking vinyl tiles are ideal for do-it-yourself installations.

There are an enormous variety of colors and styles from which to choose. In general, thicker vinyl translates to higher quality and cost. Thicker vinyl can feature a textured surface, and some types have the appearance of real stone and wood.

Vinyl installs easily over a concrete slab, but it's critical to make sure the surface is smooth, as imperfections are sure to show through and possibly damage the flooring. A thicker (and more expensive) grade of vinyl flooring may help hide slight bumps in the concrete.

Sheet vinyl and vinyl tile can cost $1 to $5 per sq. ft. Figure another $1 to $2 per sq. ft. for professional installation, depending on the complexity of the basement configuration.

Ceramic tile

Ceramic tile installs readily over a concrete slab and the many styles and colors available make it a good designer's choice. Properly installed and maintained ceramic tiles should last as long as your house.

In some below-grade applications, condensation may occur on the surface of ceramic tiles, making them slippery. If ceramic tile is your primary choice for your basement but condensation is a concern, consider glazed ceramic floor tiles with an anti-slip finish. Look for tiles that meet slip-resistance standards specified by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Costs for ceramic tile varies widely, depending on size, shape, and pattern. A standard domestic 12x12-inch ceramic tile might cost 80 cents per tile at home improvement center, while a highly decorative tile from Mexico or a porcelain stone tile from Italy can cost $10 per tile or far more. Professional installation adds $5 to $10 per sq. ft.

Engineered wood

Until the advent of engineered hardwood flooring, few builders or remodelers would recommend or risk installing a hardwood floor over a below-grade concrete surface. Because solid wood changes dimensions with fluctuations in temperature and humidity, the chances of warping and cracking were too great. In addition, there were few reliable options for installing wood flooring without traditional nails or screws.

Engineered wood floors, however, provide a more stable substrate for the planks while delivering the look and feel of a solid wood floor. They feature a thin veneer layer of solid wood that is laminated to plywood backing. Plywood is more dimensionally stable than solid wood, allowing the planks to withstand temperature and moisture fluctuations without warping.

Engineered hardwood planks are installed one of two ways. Some varieties are designed to be glued to the basement floor using an industrial adhesive. Others are "floated" over a layer of thin foam sheeting; the planks are held in place by a system of interlocking ends and edges.

Engineered wood planks are priced from $2 to $20 per sq. ft. Their factory-finished veneer is virtually maintenance-free. Installation is about $4 to $5 per sq. ft., regardless of whether the planks are glued down or floated.

Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring has similar construction to engineered wood flooring, but the top veneer is a layer of tough film covered with plastic resins. Laminate flooring mimics the look of wood, stone, and ceramic tile. The core layers of laminate flooring are dimensionally stable; some varieties are treated to resist moisture and make good choices for basement applications.

Laminate flooring planks and tiles "snap" together and float over the concrete floor on a foam pad. The flooring sells for $3 to $5 per sq. ft. at home improvement centers; installation adds $4 to $5 per sq. ft.

Concrete

One of the simplest and least expensive options for finishing a basement concrete slab is to paint or stain the slab. A one-gallon can of either coating option is about $30 and covers about 80-100 sq. ft. If you elect to use paint, consider an acrylic formula with slip-resistant surface finish.

Assuming the basement concrete slab is unsealed and still porous, a colored stain will likely penetrate fairly well and hold its color for several years before reapplication. A concrete paint probably will show wear in a high-traffic areas, and will require a reapplication every 3-5 years.

An epoxy coating system, which combines a solvent-based adhesive coating with decorative (and slip-resistant) color chips, is far tougher than a concrete paint or stain. It costs about 3 times as much as a gallon of paint or stain but covers four times the area and leaves a tough, industrial-looking finish.

Another option is to cover the concrete slab with an additional, thin layer of concrete that has been pigmented with color. A thin-coat can also be stamped with a pattern to resemble brick, flagstone, and even wood planks. Because the color is throughout the coating, it will never wear away. Expect to pay $2 to $3 per sq. ft. for a thin-coat installation.

Rich Binsacca has been writing about housing and home improvement since 1987. He is the author of 12 books on various home-related topics, is currently a contributing editor for Builder and EcoHome magazines, and has written articles for such magazines as Remodeling, Home, and Architectural Record, among several others. His first house in Boise featured a finished basement with two bedrooms, a laundry area, and the mechanical room; he had to dismantle a Queen-sized box spring to get it down the stairs.

WASHINGTON, December 30, 2009---At the beginning of the 21st century, most home buyers had never viewed a home online; the three top home sale marketing methods were yard signs, newspaper ads and open houses; and nearly nine out of 10 buyers financed their purchase with a fixed-rate, 30-year mortgage.

What a difference a decade makes.

"The real estate industry has seen tremendous change and evolution over the past decade," said National Association of Realtors® President Vicki Cox Golder, owner of Vicki L. Cox & Associates in Tucson, Ariz.

In 1999, buyers who went online in search for a home were in the minority---only 37% of buyers used the Internet in their home search, according to data from the NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers.

Today, 90% of buyers are searching online, and the real estate industry has responded. Sites like REALTOR.com, which attracts nearly 12 million total visits every month, have not just property listings, but multiple photos, online videos, mapping features, and comprehensive neighborhood information, as well. That one of the reasons Will Nesbitt Realty LLC focuses on Condo-Alexandria.com and Condos-and-Homes.com.

Median home values over the past decade have increased more than 25%, from $137,600 in November 1999 to $172,600 in November 2009 (the most recent existing-home data available). Fewer people are buying detached, single family homes---82% in 1999 compared to 78% in 2009---but more people are buying homes in suburban neighborhoods---46% in 1999 compared to 54% today.

Buyers themselves have also changed. A smaller proportion of married couples are buying homes these days; while married couples comprised 68% of all home purchases at the beginning of this century, they represent 60% of all buyers today. Single men and women have made up the difference---single men purchased 10% of all homes last year, compared to only 7% 10 years ago. Single women now represent more than one-fifth of all home buyers---21%, up from 15% in 1999.

Other things haven’t changed. The median age for home buyers last year was 39, just as it was in 1999. Neighborhood quality, affordability, and convenience to work and school have consistently been top priorities for both past and present buyers. And eight out of 10 recently surveyed consumers believe that owning a home is an investment in their future.

Source: National Association of Realtors®

If you're contemplating a kitchen remodel, you're also weighing a considerable investment. But a significant portion of the upfront costs may be recovered by the value the project brings to your home. Kitchen remodels in the $50,000 range recouped 76% of the initial project cost at the home's resale, according to recent data from Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report. To make sure you maximize your return, consider these seven smart kitchen remodeling strategies.

1. Establish your priorities

Simple enough? Not so fast. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends spending at least six months planning before beginning the work. That way, you can thoroughly evaluate your priorities and won't be tempted to change your mind during construction. Contractors often have clauses in their contracts that specify additional costs for amendments to original plans. Planning points to consider include:

• Avoid traffic jams. A walkway through the kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide, according to the NKBA. Work aisles for one cook should be a minimum of 42 inches wide and at least 48 inches wide for households with multiple cooks.
• Consider children. Avoid sharp, square corners on countertops, and make sure microwave ovens are installed at the heights recommended by the NKBA---3 inches below the shoulder of the principle user but not more than 54 inches from the floor.
• Access to the outside. If you want to easily reach entertaining areas, such as a deck or a patio, factor a new exterior door into your plans.

Because planning a kitchen is complex, consider hiring a professional designer. A pro can help make style decisions and foresee potential problems, so you can avoid costly mistakes. In addition, a pro makes sure contractors and installers are sequenced properly so that workflow is cost-effective. Expect fees around $50 to $150 per hour, or 5% to 15% of the total cost of the project.

2. Keep the same footprint

No matter the size and scope of your planned kitchen, you can save major expense by not rearranging walls, and by locating any new plumbing fixtures near existing plumbing pipes. Not only will you save on demolition and reconstruction, you'll greatly reduce the amount of dust and debris your project generates.

3. Match appliances to your skill level

A six-burner commercial-grade range and luxury-brand refrigerator might make eye-catching centerpieces, but be sure they fit your lifestyle, says Molly Erin McCabe, owner of A Kitchen That Works design firm in Bainbridge Island, Wash. "It's probably the part of a kitchen project where people tend to overspend the most."

The high price is only worth the investment if you're an exceptional cook. Otherwise, save thousands with trusted brands that receive high marks at consumer review websites, like www.ePinions.com and www.amazon.com, and resources such as Consumer Reports.

4. Create a well-designed lighting scheme

Some guidelines:

• Install task lighting, such as recessed or track lights, over sinks and food prep areas; assign at least two fixtures per task to eliminate shadows. Under-cabinet lights illuminate clean-up and are great for reading cookbooks. Pendant lights over counters bring the light source close to work surfaces.

• Ambient lighting includes flush-mounted ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, and track lights. Consider dimmer switches with ambient lighting to control intensity and mood.

5. Focus on durability

"People are putting more emphasis on functionality and durability in the kitchen," says McCabe. That may mean resisting bargain prices and focusing on products that combine low-maintenance with long warranty periods. "Solid-surface countertops [Corian, Silestone] are a perfect example," adds McCabe. "They may cost a little more, but they're going to look as good in 10 years as they did the day they were installed."

If you're not planning to stay in your house that long, products with substantial warranties can become a selling point. "Individual upgrades don't necessarily give you a 100% return," says Frank Gregoire, a real estate appraiser in St. Petersburg, Fla. "But they can give you an edge when it comes time to market your home for sale" if other for-sale homes have similar features.

6. Add storage, not space

To add storage without bumping out walls:

• Specify upper cabinets that reach the ceiling. They may cost a bit more, but you'll gain valuable storage space. In addition, you won't have to worry about dusting the tops.

• Hang it up. Install small shelving units on unused wall areas, and add narrow spice racks and shelves on the insides of cabinet doors. Use a ceiling-mounted pot rack to keep bulkier pots and pans from cluttering cabinets. Add hooks to the backs of closet doors for aprons, brooms, and mops.

7. Communicate effectively---and often

Having a good rapport with your project manager or construction team is essential for staying on budget. "Poor communication is a leading cause of kitchen projects going sour," says McCabe. To keep the sweetness in your project:

• Drop by the project during work hours as often as possible. Your presence assures subcontractors and other workers of your commitment to getting good results.
• Establish a communication routine. Hang a message board on-site where you and the project manager can leave each other daily communiques. Give your email address and cell phone number to subs and team leaders.
• Set house rules. Be clear about smoking, boom box noise levels, which bathroom is available, and where workers should park their vehicles.

Consumers spend more money on kitchen remodeling than any other home improvement project, according to the Home Improvement Research Institute, and with good reason. They're the hub of home life, and a source of pride. With a little strategizing, you can ensure your new kitchen gives you years of satisfaction.

John Riha has written six books on home improvement and hundreds of articles on home-related topics. He's been a residential builder, the editorial director of the Black & Decker Home Improvement Library, and the executive editor of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. His standard 1968 suburban house has been an ongoing source of maintenance experience.