Sun Gazette Fairfax, Fall Real Estate Guide 2016

2016

G R E AT FA L L S • M c L E A N • O A K T O N • T Y S O N S • V I E N N A

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

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1405 Church Hill Place

$727,500

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909 Georgetown Ridge Court McLean

$315,000

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$1,430,000

HBC Group Community Charity Champions has Raised Over $53,710 for Local Charities and Organizations

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Jeanina DiVittorio

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

Bill Detty

Looking to Retire? Aim South (or Maybe South Dakota) Orlando? Check. Tampa? Check. Scottsdale [Ariz.], Miami and Sioux Falls [S.D.]?

Check, check and, hey, wait a minute . . . that last one seems like an odd man out.

Maybe so, but access to great health care and relatively strong affordability helped propel the South Dakota community to a spot in the top five of the nation’s best places to retire to.

The Wallethub survey looked at 150 communities across the nation, measuring them against a set of 31 key metrics grouped into broad categories of affordability, activities, quality of life and health care.

Though not scoring higher than seventh nationally in any of those groupings – and being a middling 73rd in the quality-of-life category – Orlando easily bested the field with a retirement-livability score of 61.02 out of 100.

Orlando’s Interstate 4 sibling Tampa scored 59.27, followed by Scottsdale (58.98), Miami (58.94) and Sioux Falls (56.26). Rounding out the top 10 were Las Vegas, Cape Coral [Fla.], Atlanta, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. At the bottom were (from 146th to 150th) Aurora [Ill.], Chula Vista [Calif.], Newark, Worcester [Mass.] and Providence [R.I.] The Washington area scored well on available activities but lower on affordability and, perhaps surprisingly, health care. It ended up 53rd in the rankings, between the Texas communities of Plano and

Grand Prairie.

(For those looking exclusively at economics, consider heading to Laredo, Texas, which has the lowest adjusted-costof-living index for retired persons, about one-third the cost of New York City. Those wanting to find a substantial population of seasoned citizens should head to Scottsdale, which has the highest percentage of 65+ residents at 21.1 percent.)

Maurice MacDonald, a professor of financial planning at Kansas State University, says retirees need to focus on stability – in housing and taxes – and availability of good medical services.

“Stability is important to predict budgetary needs,” he said. “Moving to a ‘hot spot’ . . . might get you into an area that is expanding services that have to be paid for down the road.”

Dan Moisand, co-owner of the financial-planning group Moisand Fitzgerald Tamayo LLC, said one often-overlooking budget issue for retirees is transportation.

“If you leave a high-tax, high-cost area like the Northeast to live in one of our many beautiful and quiet areas here in Florida, you can save a few bucks, but if most of your friends and family are still up north, it can cost a lot more to visit,” he said.

Moisand also says those approaching retirement need to be realistic about whether they’ll be happy downsizing, whether to cut costs or for a change of

Falls Park in Sioux Falls, S.D., is one of the highlights of the community, according to the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau. The community was named one of the top five in the nation to retire to, based on a survey by Wallethub.com.

scenery.

“When the time comes, many have a hard time leaving their home,” he said.

“The potential new digs are less costly, but they can also just feel small and cheap.”

Others, who opt to move to a lowercost area but trade up to a larger home with more amenities, can find themselves with debt or with much of their financial

net worth locked up in a home.

“Borrowing against the equity – conventionally or through a reverse mortgage – isn’t free, isn’t as easy as it sounds or the ads apply, and sometimes the ramifications of the debt isn’t appealing,” Moisand said.

The full survey and additional commentary can be found on the Web site at www.wallethub.com.

BeltTeamRealEstate.com Call The Belt Team at (703) 242-3975

Kingsley Rd SW Vienna $998,900

Walker Rd Great Falls $1,219,000

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Addison St Vienna $1,399,000

Old Dominion Dr McLean $1,775,000

NorthernVirginiaHouseValues.com

John Marshall Dr NE Vienna $669,966

Mosby’s Landing Vienna $319,900

Fernwood Dr Vienna $699,999

Parkside in Alexandria $358,900

Walter Thompson Vienna $825,000

Sutton Ridge in Reston $387,000

Pepperdine Dr Vienna $569,000

Named in Top 20 Best Real Estate Agents (out of 30,000+ Realtors) in the State of VA Every client treated like our ONLY client. Read our reviews on Zillow. You’ll see the difference!

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Wicomico Church, Northern Neck 5/4 | $1,495,000 Michael Huling / 703.409.8296 583 Wicomico Drive MLS#: NV9754855

Stanley / Luray | 2/1.5 | $299,000 Mary Kimball / 571.228.4107 Panorama View Drive MLS#: PA9685412

Arlington | 1/1 | $599,000 Laura Yi / 703.244.3444 888 Quincy Street #2005 MLS#: AR9731756

Oakton | 5/5 | $1,459,000 Jodi Bentley / 703.473.3784 3154 Ariana Drive MLS#: FX9767519

Oakton | 4/4.5 | $1,300,000 Annie Greene 10420 Adel Road MLS#: FX9758120

Centreville | 6/5 | $1,075,000 Michael Huling – 703.409.8296 5436 Chandley Farm Circle MLS#: FX9753497

Fairfax | 3/3/1 | $585,000 Michael Huling / 703.409.8296 12213 Silver Cypress Terrace MLS#: FX9769325

Centreville | 4/3/1 | $514,900 Michael Huling / 703.409.8296 5512 Sequoia Farms Drive MLS#: FX9769031

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Centreville | 3/3/1 | $399,000 Michael Huling / 703.409.8296 5194 Glen Meadow MLS#: FX9757451

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Vienna | Commercial | $499,999 Frank Lattanzi / 703.855.7630 301 Maple Avenue W #320 MLS#: FX9720843

Alexandria | 3/3.5 | $539,000 Kay Graff – 703.725.5276 6333 Walking Lane MLS#: FX9747858

Mclean | 2/2 | $408,000 Jackie Armstrong / 703.216.0227 8370 Greensboro Drive #922 MLS#: FX9718553

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Vienna | 5/3.5 | $1,125,000 The DeCarlo Group / 703.772.7323 10601 Little Run Farm Court MLS#: FX9548614

Vienna | 5/5.5 | $1,349,000 Kay Graff / 703.725.5276 8096 Westchester Drive MLS#: FX9728049

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Vienna | 5/3/1 | $994,900 Michael Huling / 703.409.8296 10112 Garrett Street MLS#: FX9700932

Fairfax | 3/2/2 | $569,000 Laura Yi / 703.244.3444 12234 Water Elm Lane MLS#: FX9716897

Preparation Is the Key to Beating Stress of Packing (StatePoint) – From finding a new home to selling one’s current home, the moving process can be a big source of stress.

Among the top stressors is packing. In fact, in a recent survey, commissioned by Duck brand, conducted online by Harris Poll, over half of Americans (56 percent) say packing to move is extremely/very stressful.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Here are some tips to reduce packing pain.

• Purge before packing: Diminish the workload by first cleaning out items you no longer need.

• Pack carefully: Forty percent of those who would find it frustrating to pack when moving worry about items break-

ing. Eliminate anxiety by wrapping fragile items with cushioning material, like Bubble Wrap. Dish and glass kits provide pouches and dividers to protect delicate goods. Lastly, secure your boxes with quality packing tape, like EZ Start Packaging Tape.

• Buy boxes: Scrambling to find enough boxes can be nerve wracking.

Don’t dig around the grocery store last minute. Instead, purchase boxes in a variety of sizes and levels of durability.

Then, color-code each box with tape, to know where it goes on moving day.

While moving will always contain some stress, the right moving supplies and strategies can streamline the task.

High Levels of Student Debt Have Impact on U.S. Real Estate Seventy-one percent of non-homeowners repaying their student loans on time believe their debt is stymieing their ability to purchase a home, and slightly more than half of all borrowers say they expect to be delayed from buying by more than five years.

This is according to a new joint survey on student loan debt and housing released today by the National Association of Realtors and SALT, a consumer literacy program provided by nonprofit American Student Assistance.

The results also revealed that student

debt postponed four in 10 borrowers from moving out of a family member’s household after graduating college.

Nearly three-quarters of non-homeowners polled in the survey believe their student loan debt is delaying them from buying a home.

Broken down by each generation and debt amount, the percent share is the highest among older Millennials approximately aged 26 to 35 (79 percent) and those with $70,000 to $100,000 in total debt.

Regardless of the outright amount of student debt, more than half of non-hom-

eowners in each generation report that it’s postponing their ability to buy.

The survey, which only polled student debt holders current in their repayment, yielded responses from borrowers with varying amounts of debt from mostly a four-year public or private college.

Forty-three percent of those polled had between $10,001 and $40,000 in student debt, while 38 percent had $50,000 or more. The most common debt amount was $20,000 to $30,000, according to the survey results Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist,

says the survey findings bring to light the magnitude student debt is having on the housing market and the budget of even those financially able to make on-time payments.

While obtaining a college degree increases the likelihood of stable employment and earning enough to buy a home, many graduating with this debt are putting home ownership on the backburner in part because of the multiple years it takes to pay off their student loans at an interest rate that’s oftentimes nearly double current mortgage rates.

Shirley Buford & Associates

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

9800 Fox Rest Ln, Vienna, Va Offered at $839,000

1761 Brookside Lane, Vienna, VA Offered at $1,299,000

Fabulous All Brick Home with three finished levels near Vienna Metro. 4/5 Bedrooms and 3.5 Baths. Hardwoods in Foyer, Living Room and Kitchen. Two Fireplaces.

Gourmet Kitchen, Walk-in Bay Breakfast area, and Light Filled Family Room. Luxury Bath off Master with Jetted ed Tub. Finished LL with Rec Room, Den/BR with full Bath. 2-Car Garage with fenced Rear Yard.

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Priced $25,000 below tax assessed Value! Elegant Colonial on 1.5 Acre lot with 3-car Side Load Gar. Many Upgrades. Custom Baths, Gourmet Kitchen w/Granite Counters, Stainless Steel Appliances. Two Story Great Rm w/Wet Bar & Palladian windows, Finished walkout LL w/ bedroom and bath/In-Law Suite Near Metro, Airport, Shopping & W&OD Trail.

Office: 703-790-1990

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Corbett Buford 703-244-8882 Corbett@TeamBuford.com

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Va.’s Home Sales See a Big Shot Upward in August Home sales across Virginia were up 12.5 percent in August from a year before, according to new figures, while median sales prices also moved in a positive direction.

A total of 11,482 residential properties went to closing across the Old Dominion during the month, according to figures reported Sept. 22 by the Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR). That’s up from 10,204 transactions a year before.

“Particularly strong sales in Virginia’s densest regions fostered an August boom,” said VAR president Bill White. “We are beginning to overcome inventory restraints that had been a challenge – with financ-

ing still available at historically low interest rates, buyers are motivated to enter the market and are now able to take advantage of greater inventory.”

While the 2016 market peaked right on schedule in June with 13,200 transactions, July had shown softness but August picked up the pace.

“Atypical of industry seasonal trends, sales increased slightly – 0.6 percent – from July,” VAR officials noted.

The median sales price of all homes that went to closing in August statewide was $272,500, up 1.7 percent from a year before and down just slightly from the tra-

ditionally stronger month of July, which suggests “sustained strength in the market,” VAR officials said.

Total sales volume for the month was $3.79 billion, up 14.8 percent from a year before.

For homes that sold in August, the average time spent between listing and ratified sales contract was 60 days, a significant improvement from the 69 days required a year before and unchanged from July.

Those purchasing homes over the summer had access to 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages at an average interest rate of 3.44 percent, according to Freddie Mac. The

rate was unchanged from a year before and more than a half-percentage-point lower than the still historically low rates of late 2015.

For the first eight months of the year, home sales statewide totaled 79,043, an increase of 5.9 percent compared to the same reporting period in 2015 and up a whopping 18.4 percent from 2014.

Figures represent most, but not all, home sales during the period. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision.

For full data, see the Web site at www. varealtor.com.

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The Old Dominion ranks 32nd nationally in average monthly cost for fuel to power their houses and cars, according to a new survey by Wallethub.com.

The typical Virginia household spends $283 per month in fuel costs, about 30 percent less than in Connecticut, which topped the ranking at $404 per month.

Also in the top 10: Massachusetts ($346), Rhode Island ($338), Vermont ($332), Georgia and North Dakota (each $328), Maine ($327), New Hampshire and Indiana (tied at $325) and Mississippi ($323).

Lowest average costs were reported in the state of Washington ($218), the District of Columbia ($219), Colorado ($235), Oregon ($238), Arizona ($247), New Mexico ($249), California ($251), Idaho ($262), Montana ($265) and Iowa ($270).

The survey looked at both gasoline costs and the cost of three types of fuel for homes: electricity, natural gas and heating oil. (In northeastern states, up to 66 percent of households use heating oil to heat their homes, compared with less than 3 percent of households in the rest of the U.S.) In the U.S., energy costs eat between 5 and 22 percent of families’ total after-tax income, with the poorest Americans, or 25 million households, paying the highest of that range. And lower energy prices don’t necessarily equate to savings.

“Where we live and how much energy we use make up a larger part of the math,” Wallethub researchers said. “Electricity might be cheap in southern Louisiana, for instance, but its scorching summer weather could still result in higher costs for its residents than the temperate climate in more energy-expensive northern California, where heating and cooling units stay idle most of the year.”

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the highest energy consumption of the year is recorded in July, followed by August.

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Fuel Costs for Homeowners Modest in Va.

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Find Stunning Delights Both Inside and Out

McLean Property Replicates Charms of Williamsburg Governor’s Mansion

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e travel today to the sought-after Ballantrae community in McLean, where something truly unique awaits inspection.

Now, we acknowledge that “unique” can be an overused word when discussing real estate. But we think you’ll agree it’s appropriate here.

Designed and constructed to pay homage to the Williamsburg Governor’s Mansion, the home is a standout Georgian with exterior and interior beauty to go with a layout and floorplan perfect for today’s lifestyle.

Whether entertaining a gathering – and the holidays are not far down the road – or simply enjoying the pleasures of daily living, the home is versatile and ready to exceed expectations.

The property currently is on the market, listed at $4,200,000 by Lilian Jorgenson of Long & Foster Real Estate.

Constructed 30 years ago and located south of Route 123, the home sits on more than a half-acre of verdant domains. And as we venture inside to explore the surroundings, the attention to detail is evident throughout. Each room is special in its own right; together, they work well to complete an exquisite ensemble.

Four levels await our inspection, so let’s begin as we are greeted in the foyer, which looks all the way to the rear of the home, and enjoy everything that is on the near horizon.

To our left is the grand salon, a large living room with the first of the home’s

fireplaces. To our right off the foyer is the embassy-sized dining room, ready to entertain a gathering of friends and family. Glorious trim and wainscoting shows how much attention was lavished on the little touches that make a house a home.

We then move on to the redesigned kitchen and morning room.

The first part – the kitchen – features a chef’s table as well as an island, along with top appliances and an open feel.

Beyond is the morning room, where you can find touches such as Charleston-style landers and access to the terrace area at the rear of the home.

And now, on to the home’s pièce de résistance, the Ballantrae Room. Soaring two levels and featuring soaring Palladian windows, it’s an enchanting spot that has enough versatility to work as an informal or formal space. And there’s access to the grand terrace, which overlooks the pool area.

But wait, there’s more on the first level. You’ll find a screened porch that leads to a quiet terrace area, and tucked away is an author’s library with corner wood-burning fireplace and cross-beam ceiling.

On up to the second level we go, where the master retreat is showcased in its own wing. A large bedding area, with corner fireplace, is augmented by a sitting room, two walk-in closets and a lovely bath with a freestanding soaking tub.

And here in this space, you have access to your own private veranda, with marvelous overlooks of the rear yard.

Three additional bedrooms are located on the upper level, one with its own private veranda complementing the one attached to the master bedroom.

And up we go, to the second upper level, where a large studio/retreat area is the centerpiece (with a cupola above).

Built-in shelving and dormer windows add to the overall ambiance.

Two additional bedrooms are located on this level; each would work well for other functions, such as a home office.

More amenities await on the lower level, including an expansive recreation room with a gas fireplace. There also is a large exercise/game room, and a versatile bonus room.

The rear yard is home to a glorious set of terraces and patios, with large trees providing privacy. Here you will find the resort-style pool, along with a gazebo, cabana and plentiful plaza area.

This estate home comes complete with a four-car garage, rounding out a package that pays tribute to all that came before . . . while also making a forward-looking statement to all who come and enjoy its charms.

Facts for buyers

Address: 1287 Ballantrae Farm Drive, McLean (22101).

Listed at: $4,200,000 by Lilian Jorgenson, Long & Foster Real Estate (703) 790-1990.

Schools: Franklin-Sherman Elementary, Longfellow Middle, McLean High School.

Selling * Buying * Renting Ranked in the Top 250 NATIONWIDE in REAL Trends

Sold more than 1,900 homes for a dollar volume more than $1.30 Billion dollars!

Voted Best Agent by the Washingtonian in 2015 McLean 703-790-1990

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Over 30 years of real estate experience.

703-407-0766

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

www.Lilian.com

544 Springvale Road, Great Falls, VA 22066

$1,325,000

Deserving an architectural award, imbued with light, atop a private knoll!

4 Bedrooms all En-Suite, 5 Bedrooms, 1 Full Bath, 2.39 Acre Lot MCLEAN

$3,890,000

MCLEAN

$2,375,000

JUST LISTED! MCLEAN

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VIENNA

$1,075,000

VIENNA

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$1,050,000

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CLIFTON

$2,250,000

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$1,999,500

OAKTON

$1,150,000

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MERRYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC!

OAKTON

$880,000

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VIENNA

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McLean Sales Office, 1355 Beverly Road, Suite 109 * 703-790-1990 OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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Survey Says: Most Still Believe It’s a Good Time to Buy Despite lackluster economic growth and stark home-price appreciation in several parts of the country in recent months, roughly three-quarters of surveyed households still believe now is a good time to buy a home, but there’s a considerable gap in morale between homeowners and renters, according to the latest installment of the National Association of Realtors.

The recent survey also found that roughly half of young adults with student debt are uncomfortable about taking on a mortgage.

Respondents were asked about their confidence in the U.S. economy and various questions about their housing expectations, including questions on if carrying student debt is tempering their ability and appetite to take on mortgage debt.

Through the first half of the year, NAR’s survey found that the share of homeowners and renters who believe now is a good time to buy a home is mostly holding steady, with 80 percent of homeowners (82 percent in March) and 62 percent of renters (unchanged from last quarter) saying it’s a good time to buy. However, the share of renters who think so is down from 68 percent in December 2015, and those under 35 were the least confident that now is a good time to buy.

Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, says the survey brings to focus the ongoing disparity in buyer confidence between current homeowners and renters.

“Existing-home prices surpassed their all-time peak this spring and have climbed on average over 5 percent nationally

through the first five months of the year and even faster in areas with severe supply shortages,” he said. “Most homeowners appear to realize that if they’re ready to sell, they’ll likely find a buyer rather quickly and be able to use the sizeable equity they’ve accumulated in recent years towards their next home purchase.”

Meanwhile, renters interested in buying continue to face minimal choices, strong competition and home prices growing faster than their incomes,” Yun said.

The survey also revealed that carrying student debt is causing many to be uneasy about taking on additional debt.

According to the survey, roughly twothirds of non-homeowners and half of respondents under 35 with student debt said they aren’t comfortable also having a

mortgage.

Furthermore, of those with student debt, non-homeowners and younger adults were less likely to believe they’d be able to qualify for a mortgage if they applied, the survey noted.

“It’s becoming very evident from this survey and our research released last month that the financial and emotional impact of repaying student debt is contributing to a delay in purchasing a home for many would-be buyers,” adds Yun. “At a time of quickly rising rents, mortgage rates at all-time lows and increasing housing wealth, a lot of young adults in their prime buying years are struggling to enter the market and are ultimately missing out on the stability and wealth accumulation that owning a home can provide.”

The U.S. home-ownership rate has slowly fallen in recent years to currently its lowest level since 1965, but new research from the National Association of Realtors reveals that there are affordable metro areas right now with above-average hiring and a large segment of current renters who earn enough income to qualify to buy a home.

The trade association reviewed employment growth, household income and qualifying income levels in nearly 100 of the largest metropolitan statistical areas

across the country to determine which areas with employment gains above the recent national average also have the largest share of renters who can currently afford to buy a home.

Of the top 10 metro areas with the highest share of renters who earn enough to buy, nine were either in the South or Midwest – including three cities in Ohio.

The top markets with the highest share of renters who can afford to purchase a home are Toledo, Ohio; Little Rock, Ark.; Dayton, Ohio; Lakeland, Fla.; St. Louis;

Columbia, S.C.; Atlanta; Columbus, Ohio; Tampa; and Ogden, Utah.

Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, said there’s been a significant increase in renter households – both young adults and those who lost their home – since the Great Recession, and especially in metro areas that have seen robust job creation and a resulting influx of new residents.

This has led to a multi-year run-up in rents in several markets that have contributed to many of these renters’ inability to advance into home ownership.

“Overall housing affordability and local job market strength play a pivotal role in a renter’s decision on whether to buy a home or sign another lease,” Yun said.

According to Yun, the median existing-home sales price in these two regions continue to be lower than the Northeast and West, and while many of these areas were slower to recover from the recession, improvements in their local labor markets in the past year have pushed their hiring levels to at or above the national growth rate.

Some Metro Areas Are Seeing Good Signs for Ownership

lyonsmcguire.com 703.406.9009

WHY MAY ISN’T THE BEST MONTH TO SELL YOUR HOME! Save the Date!

Become a Savvy Seller!

Attend Our Annual Seller’s Seminar Sunday, January 29, 2017 1-4PM 774-A Walker Road

Great Falls

Virginia

22066

703.406.9009

Each office independently owned and operated. This is not intended as a solicitation if your home is currently listed with another broker.

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I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

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Ann Romer CRS, GRI, ABR

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ll er 8 Ca prop 669 370

JUST LISTED ~ Seldom do homes like this one come on the market ~ Stately all brick colonial offers extraordinary curb appeal ~ 6 BR plus sitting rm. with Palladium window ~ 4 BA ~ Spectacular addition ~ Luxurious MBR & BA with vaulted ceilings ~ A gourmet kitchen to be envied by most chefs ~ Brazilian Cherry floors - Even a second kitchen Quality craftsmanship - 2 Car Garage - Side door & patio lead to cul-de-sac. A Commuter’s Delight.

BarB BuBel

NVAR Mult-Million Dollar Club LIfe Member/Top Producer Top 5% of Realtors Nationwide

703-827-BARB 703-966-8675 houses@bubel.com

Build Your Dream Home Here!

to Dulles International and Reagan airports.

West of Old Dominion to left on Dulany Drive. Property on the left.

RltrAnn@aol.com TheRomerTeam.com

Large 2 BR, 2 BA. Updated kit w/42” cabs, ss appls, Corian + lovely tile floor. BA’s also updated w/large tile & vanities. 2 blks to Whole Foods & Trader Joe’s. Great amenities inc. pool, 4 tennis cts, fitness center, BBQ area, b’ball courts, library, lower storage & 2 pkng spaces. 2 min ride via bus in front to WFC METRO! ANNANDALE

Build your dream home on this one acre corner lot in McLean’s Elmwood Estates neighborhood.

Located inside the Beltway, convenient to the Dulles Toll Road, Tysons Corner, DC and Maryland. Minutes

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Great light-filled kitchen features custom light walnut cabinetry, granite countertops, S/S appliances, and adjoining breakfast area/ family room. Separate DR & 3 spacious bedrooms including master suite w/private dressing area, WIC, and full bath. All baths updated. Cozy recreation room has woodburning fireplace. Conveniently located just inside Beltway.

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Call me for additional information or to schedule an appointment

cathypeckhomes@gmail.com

COME TOUR CODA Construction’s stunning new design situated on a large prominent corner lot, walking distance to Churchill and Cooper schools. This home features typical CODA craftsmanship and strong attention to details with 5 bedrooms 5 full baths, gourmet kitchen, luxury master suite, built-in cabinetry, custom closets, extensive moldings, 3 car garage, deck, custom bar and billiard’s room and more.

AL NT ITY E T R UN EA ORT R G PP O

4941 Oriskany Drive, Annandale

cathy Peck 703.628.8322

McLean

JENIFER JUSTICE, ABR, GRI associate Broker

®

CT

A TR

N

ER

CO

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UN

2834 S Meade St Arlington, VA

email: justicehom@aol.com www.jeniferjustice.com

571-213-7500

My Personalized Service is the Keystone to Your Satisfaction BarbCleo@aol.com

You’ll love living here! This beautifully renovated end unit townhouse w/a wood burning fireplace is move in ready! Remodeled Kitchen & upstairs Bath; New lower level Bath; New Windows; New Fence; Freshly Painted throughout; New lower level Carpet; Hardwood Floors on Main & upper level! Assigned Parking.

Easy commute to Pentagon, DC. Close to Shirlington & Old Town.

Call/text me at 703-424-0323 or email me at k.patel@weichert.com for all your real estate needs.

McLean - Commuter’s Dream!

Close-in Colonial in Excellent Condition.

Private, LowMaintenance Setting. Expanded Granite Kitchen & Master Bath.

Spacious 4 BR plus Master Sitting Room and Nanny Room. Tennis Jane Price, crs Community. 1 703-628-0470 Stop Light to D.C.! $1,075,000 Jane@JanePrice.com

MOSAIC DISTRICT

$4300

Contemporary 3BR, 3.5BAs, 4 levels with loft and private rooftop terrace.

Vibrant area with no shortage of shops, restaurants, pubs, entertainment and farmers market.

DEBBIE SCHWEINHAUT GRI, ASP

Cell: 703.675.1253 Office: 703.760.8880

AL NT

RE

MIDDLEBURG PERFECT LOT $475,000

Certified Buyer’s Agent

Licensed MD, DC, & VA Build your dream home on this gorgeous 9+ ac. lot. Rt. 50 road frontage insures easy access in all weather conditions. Gently 202-365-1575 C 703-760-8880 O rolling terrain provides ideal building site. Percs for 4 BR.

OWNER FINANCING POSSIBLE.

McLean

McLean

Land in Langley Land in LangleyForest Forest

www.raffrealestate.com blaraff@aol.com

Rare opportunity to build Rare opportunity to build youryour dream home onon aa dream home beautiful over 1 acre lotlotinin beautiful over 1 acre coveted Langley Forest. coveted Langley Forest.

Enjoy thisthis serene and private Enjoy serene and private setting, minutes away setting, justjust minutes away Tysons Corner, fromfrom Tysons Corner, thethe Capital Beltway, DC, and Capital Beltway, DC, and Washington’s airports. Public Washington’s airports. Public Margaret Gilboa sewer and gas are available.

Margaret Gilboa sewer and gas are available. Margaret Gilboa GRI, CRS, ABR For additional information and to make an appointment call GRI, CRS, ABR Top 1% Nationwide > 28 yrs GRI, CRS, ABR For additional information and to make an appointment call For additional information and to make an appointment call Margaret Gilboa at 703-629-0828.

1% Nationwide > 28 margaret.gilboa@gmail.com TopTop 1% Nationwide > 28 yrsyrs Margaret Gilboa at 703-629-0828.

Margaret Gilboa at 703-629-0828. margaret.gilboa@gmail.com margaret.gilboa@gmail.com

dschweinhaut@gmail.com

McLean/Dolley Madison Office

1313 Dolley Madison Blvd • (703) 760-8880 12

Blanche raff

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

Survey: Realtor Ranks Getting Younger, More Diverse The median age and years of experience of Realtors has decreased as new and younger professionals enter the industry, according to the 2016 National Association of Realtors Member Profile.

The survey’s results are representative of the nation’s nearly 1.2 million Realtors; members of NAR account for about half of all active real-estate licensees in the U.S. The typical member reported a median of 10 years of experience in real estate, down from 12 years in last year’s report.

Realtors®’ median age also decreased from 57 in 2014 to 53 in 2015, the lowest it has been since 2008 when the median age was 52.

“The median age of Realtors is younger than in the past because more people entered the real estate profession this year than in past years, with 20 percent of members reporting one year or less of experience” said NAR president Tom Salomone, broker-owner of Real Estate II Inc. in Coral Springs, Florida. “NAR is excited to have young, fresh perspectives enter the industry, and we are proud to offer resources for our younger members to advance and grow, such as the Young Professionals Network and ‘30 Under 30’ recognition.”

In last year’s report, 41 percent of members were more than 60 years old, while only 2 percent were under age 30. This year, the percent of Realtors over 60 years old dropped to 30 percent, and the num-

ber of those younger than 30 years rose to 5 percent. Thirteen percent of members who have two years or less experience are under 30 years of age.

New members also tend to be more diverse than experienced members; eightynine percent of Realtors with 16 or more years of experience are white, compared to only 78 percent of those with two years or less experience.

The median gross income of Realtorsalso fell last year, from $45,800 in 2014 to $39,200 in 2015; not surprising, given members’ income typically corresponds with experience.

Those with 16 years or more of experience reported a median gross income of $73,400, up from $68,800 in 2014, while members with two years or less of experience had a median gross income of $8,500, a decrease from $9,100 last year.

For the third year in a row, Realtors cited difficulty finding the right property, at 38 percent, as the most persistent challenge limiting potential buyers, beating out obtaining mortgage financing at 19 percent.

“Limited inventory continues to restrict buyers in many markets across the country,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “This is reflected in the number of transactions reported by members, which has remained the same at 11 transactions.”

However, while the number of transac-

‘NAR is excited to have young, fresh perspectives enter the industry.’

Tom Salomone, president National Association of Realtors tions has remained the same, rising home prices in 2015 triggered the median brokerages sales volume to rise to $1.8 million from last year’s $1.7 million.

The typical Realtor reported working 40 hours per week in 2015, in line with previ-

ous years. Sixty-seven percent of members specialize in residential brokerage, down from 82 percent.

The most popular secondary specialization is relocation, 17 percent, and residential property management, 16 percent.

Twenty-six percent of all Realtors earned more than $100,000 last year, while an equal percentage made less than $10,000.

This year marks the first time members were asked about the use of drones in their business. While a majority of Realtors, 56 percent, currently do not use drones, 18 percent indicated that they plan to in the future.

Twelve percent reported that someone in their office uses drones, and 11 percent say that they hire a professional for their drone use.

When it comes to technology 93 percent said that their firm has a web presence. When communicating with clients, members say that e-mail, telephone, and text messaging are used most frequently.

Seventy percent of members reported using social media, an increase from 65 percent last year.

Other technology that members report regularly using includes electronic contact and forms software, contact management software, and e-document programs.

Many Realtors have had careers in other fields before entering real estate. Only four percent of members indicate that real estate was their first career.

5834 Valley View Drive Alexandria, VA 22310

$

929,000

BRAND NEW HOME built by Stanley Martin Custom Homes! Open, airy floor plan! 5 BR/4.5 BA on 3 finished levels. Spacious gourmet kitchen with granite, huge island, double wall ovens, pantry; Bedrooms on UL all have WIC; MBR with his/her WIC, upgraded ceramic tile & granite in MBA, soaking tub, separate shower w/ frameless glass door; Laundry room on UL; Finished basement with 5th bedroom, rec room, full bath, and storage area. Close to metro, 495/95/395, shopping, and restaurants. Don't miss it!

John Jorgenson #1 Long and Foster New Homes Agent Every Year Since 2008 http://gowithjohn.com/top-realtor-in-northern-virginia/ to view more!

(703) 352-3000 Office www.GoWithJohn.com

Mclean Sales Office 1355 Beverly Road, Suite 109

OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

13

Realtor Q&A: How Important Are Windows and Shutters?

DAVE FACINOLI Staff Writer

Do types of windows on a property, or exterior shutters, add value and make a differences to prospective buyers?

The Sun Gazette posed those questions to some local real-estate professionals those question. Here are their answers: Diane Lewis, Washington Fine Properties: “Shutters give homes nice curb appeal, so I do think they add value.

The raised-panel and louvered shutters seem to be the most popular right now.

Shutters definitely add charm and depth to a home, which is important for selling.”

“Two-over-two double-hung windows are very popular right now, as well as the color window frames. The bronze frame is a popular look right now. Newer windows definitely add value to a home.”

Casey Samson, Samson Properties: “Shutters are a first-impression item, and first impressions count. They cannot show wear and tear. Shutter types are a non-issue. On a scale of one to 10, shutters are a three and pricing is a 12.

Panes or no panes is not the issue with windows. It is cloudy or not cloudy. Some windows may be cloudy due to broken seal. The question is, do you replace them before listing, and the answer is unequivocally, yes! The home inspector is going to flag them anyway, so replace them before listing so the home shows better and you

get a strong price.”

Dawn Wilson, Keller Williams: “Since exterior shutters today tend to be decorative and not functional, I do not think they really add value per se. Depending on the style of the house, the house could be more aesthetically pleasing if it had shutters. If that is the case, shutters may draw more buyers to the home to see it, and in turn, if more buyers go to view a home, there is the potential for an offer or more than one offer.”

“The most common concern buyers have about windows is with outside noise.

Probably the most important thing about windows is that the windows keep the noise out. Double-pane windows are preferred. Buyers also look for windows that are newer, easy to open and close, and easy to clean. Newer windows add value to the property because buyers generally do not want to take on the expense of having to replace them soon after they move into the home.”

Rob Ferguson, Re/Max Allegiance: “I don’t think there is any real value difference with shutters. If a house looks like it should have shutters and doesn’t, that can detract from the curbside appeal, and might keep it from selling quickly.”

“Older windows are noticeable and get into a buyers’ mind about something to deal with down the road. The particular style of panes come down to the stye of a home, but buyers really don’t have a

preference, and there is no real value difference.”

Gloria Adams, TTR Sotheby’s: “Shutters are nice, but they really depend on the style of the house whether they are necessary, and they can add value. But they have to be in good shape.”

“Traditional houses tend to have more window panes. Windows are one of the first things buyers look at. Are they old or new? Buyers like the new tilt-out windows that are easier to clean. Good windows add value.”

Dean Yeonas, Yeonas and Shafran Real Estate: “If it is a traditional colonial home, shutters are an integral part of the architectural scheme, and a must-have.

Then on contemporary homes, shutters are not part of the architectural scheme.”

“There are all types of windows. It’s a huge business. Most people don’t really care about having panes or not. They opt for easy cleaning and good condition and the convenience aspect.”

Mark Middendorf, Long & Foster: “If appropriate for the house, shutters can be more appealing for buyers than those without. So they can make a home more sellable.”

“Most don’t pay attention if windows have panes or not. In Arlington, because most homes are older, most windows have panes or the windows have been replaced, which is the most important thing.”

Karen Briscoe, Huckaby, Briscoe,

Conroy Realty Group of Keller Williams: “If in keeping with the architectural style and the character of a house, windows and shutters can add value. If not, they don’t add value. Whether a window has mullions or not does not come up from buyers.”

Christopher Wilkes, Washington Fine Properties: “It all depends on the style and architecture of the home (classic vs. contemporary). Generally speaking, a classic colonial might look a bit bare without shutters, so in this case it would add value to improve the curb appeal, which generally improves the buyers’ interest.

Depending on the price point of the home, wood shutters typically work best. Buyers tend to be turned off if you are selling a $1.4 million home and there are plastic shutters.”

“I think the style of the window needs to match the style of the home. On a colonial, I would expect to see a traditional window with dividers, whereas a contemporary, I would expect to see more of a casements window. I think new windows certainly add value.”

Betsy Twigg, McEnearney Associates: “It can look odd if shutters are shoved onto a house just for appeal and not on the appropriate style of house. If it’s a colonial home, then shutters are appropriate and can have value.”

Continued on Page 26

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INVENTORY AVAILABLE For information contact Doug Marcinski at 703-963-7676 14

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

703-340-7470 | www.lexlianos.com

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W W! 1030 Park Street | Vienna

Lex Lianos & Associates

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Whether buying or selling, contact us for a free, no obligation consultation

Licensed in VA, MD and DC | 156 Maple Ave East Vienna, VA 22180

(O) 703-938-6070 | (C) 703-340-7470

OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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McLEAN $5,290,000

McLEAN $4,750,000 A stunning modern home that opens to more than 10,000 finished square feet, set on a gorgeous corner lot. An unparalleled space that is exciting and rich with amenities throughout.

RON MANGAS JR. +1 703 298 2564

GREAT FALLS $3,499,000

GREAT FALLS $2,610,438

GREAT FALLS $2,099,000 A jewel of sophistication. Almost 3 acres. large circular drive, welcoming you into a home of exquisite details such as 15-inch moldings and Venetian corners on all walls.

Master suite on main level, with His&Her bathrooms and heated marble floors. 3 laundry areas and 5 fireplaces. Built by original owner with only the finest finishes and fixtures.

CAROL ELLICKSON +1 703 862 2135

McLEAN $1,795,000 Stunning Art Moderne 4-bedroom, 7-bathroom home overlooking Scotts Run. 3 levels with over 11,900 square feet of living space. Large patio with rock pond and water feature. This home was made for entertaining and comes with 2 large offices and a private lower suite.

MIKE ANASTASIA +1 703 501 1000

OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA $1,169,000 New Price. For the most discerning buyers. This tastefully renovated, lightfilled 4-bedroom brick townhome with landscaped private patio and assigned parking is located 1 block to the Waterfront.

DEBRAN McCLEAN+1 202 494 8202

MAYWOOD, ARLINGTON $1,149,000

McLEAN $1,080,000

This breathtaking home, designed by architect Mark McInturff, FAIA., was consciously crafted with architectural details and an unprecedented level of artistry. It is a masterpiece.

RON MANGAS JR. +1 703 298 2564

This Keswick Homes Frasier Country French Colonial to be built on the premier 5-acre site is located in the center of Great Falls conveniently near the Village Center.

Impressive design with two-story foyer, gourmet kitchen open to the family room, and luxurious master suite.

SUSAN McFALLS +1 703 927 8589

Only 1-stoplight to DC. Perfect for an active, urban lifestyle. Direct access to park and bike/jogging path. Blocks to shopping and eateries. Open, bright floor plan.

RUTH BOYER O’DEA +1 703 338 2277 SHERI GRANT +1 703 405 1016

ttrsir.com

This picturesque, exquisite French Normandy home is sited on spectacular grounds that include a large pool and hot tub with a waterfall. Brand new kitchen, opulent first floor master, incredible luxury finishes. End of a private road. Perfect for entertaining on a grand scale or relaxing with the family.

ROZ DRAYER +1 703 283 4334

Completely Updated. Spacious 5-bedroom colonial on cul-de-sac with 0.42-acre lot backing to stream and parkland. Open floor plan. Recent renovations include new HVAC, stainless steel appliances, and granite and quartz counters. Great location.

PAM HAZEN +1 703 587 7300 McLEAN, VA BROKERAGE | +1 703 319 3344 ALEXANDRIA, VA BROKERAGE | +1 703 310 6800 GEORGETOWN, DC BROKERAGE | +1 202 333 1212 DOWNTOWN, DC BROKERAGE | +1 202 234 3344 CHEVY CHASE, MD BROKERAGE | +1 301 967 334

©2016 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal housing opportunity. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Price and availability subject to change.

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I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

McLEAN $3,395,000 Franklin Park sophisticated design coupled with wonderful functionality, from the gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops to finely crafted millwork. No detail has been missed.

STEPHANIE WHITE +1 703 489 5045

McLEAN $2,950,000

McLEAN $2,695,000

GREAT FALLS $1,479,500

McLEAN $1,350,000

McLEAN $1,350,000 Imagine the possibilities within this French Manor style home privately tucked away on a 1.9-acre lot. Custom built in 1979, this home is a renovator’s dream project with character and charm throughout.

STEPHANIE WHITE +1 703 489 5045

McLEAN $997,500

McLEAN $759,900

VIENNA COMING SOON

Stunning equestrian property with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, large rec room, and screened-in porch. Sited on 5 acres within the equestrian community of Southdown, where location is everything. Newer private barn, 4 board wood fencing around pastures, access to trails and indoor/ outdoor arenas. Private pool. Very private and serene.

ROZ DRAYER +1 703 283 4334

Spacious, updated 3-level Colonial with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths located in the Langley pyramid of schools.

MIKE ANASTASIA +1 703 501 1000

Sophisticated home in Woodlea Mill. Movein condition with fabulous room sizes, hardwood floors, spacious grounds with pool, and a main level master with new luxurious bath. Complete with a wine cellar and tasting room. 8,616 total square feet.

Minutes to Dulles/Metro/DC/Tysons.

GLORIA ADAMS +1 703 356 6645

Spacious Evermay two-level rambler with a great location in the neighborhood.

Complete with new kitchen, new baths, neutral décor, quality construction, easy commute to DC/Tysons/MD/Metro, and a walk to the Potomac School. 5 bedrooms with a fantastic recreation room and bar.

GLORIA ADAMS +1 703 356 6645

Luxury building, step into easy living with shopping, restaurants and the Metro within minutes of this gorgeous 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo overlooking Tysons Corner.

STEPHANIE WHITE +1 703 489 5045

Private oasis in the heart of McLean.

Premium renovations include custom stream, waterfall, and pond surrounded by mature landscaping, lawns, patios, deck, and gazebo. Inside, luxuriate with thoughtfully designed improvements.

HEATHER COREY +1 703 989 1183

A sunny 4-bedroom home with a large fenced yard. Screened-in porch. Natural gas heat. Close to W&OD Trail. Wolftrap Elementary School.

DOUG FRANCIS +1 703 304 6827

WE ARE PLEASED TO WELCOME OUR NEW ASSOCIATES The Traci Oliver Team | Niamh DiOrio | Susan Taylor

COMING THIS NOVEMBER, OUR NEW ARLINGTON BROKERAGE LOCATED AT 2300 ARLINGTON BOULEVARD OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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Visual Appeal Coupled with Grand Amenities

A Swinks Mill Property Showcases Excellence Both Inside and Out

V

isually arresting architecture – whether seen in daylight or, even more evocatively, at night – is the hallmark of our featured property, an upscale colonial set back in privacy and serenity on Swinks Mill Court in McLean.

Described as a poolside utopia in a strategic locale, the property is a stunner inside and out, ready to make every day a holiday.

The property currently is on the market, listed at $2,289,000 by Casey Margenau of Casey Margenau Fine Homes and Estates.

Our tour begins on the main level, where a sense of open living and wellthought-out traffic flow awaits our attention. Room sizes are large but proportional, and everything fits together well, with copious natural sunlight streaming in.

The grand, two-story living room features a curved wall of windows overlooking the rear yard, along with a lovely fireplace. It’s the perfect backdrop for a stylish soirée, whether at holiday time or any time of year.

The dining room is a large and flexible space, ready for all comers, and opens to the media room.

A well-thought-out design makes the chef’s-dream kitchen area a focal-point of the home, with plentiful food-preparation space, granite counters, custom cabinetry, a center island, separate eatin area with bay window overlooking the rear yard and copious pantry space.

Laundry facilities are located nearby.

A main-level bedroom is tucked away for privacy, and adds to the versatility of the space. It also includes a full bath.

Let’s take the glorious staircase to the second level, where the centerpiece – we’d also say masterpiece – is the selfcontained master retreat, a perfect respite from all the rigors of daily living.

Featuring a large bedroom area, two walk-in closets, a sumptuous bath and access to not one but two bonus spaces (which would work well as a home office, artist’s retreat or exercise area), the space is simply marvelous.

Three additional bedrooms, all ensuite, can be found on the second level.

The walk-out lower level provides more surprises and delights, including a large recreation room, exercise room, home theatre and the home’s sixth bedroom with adjacent full bath.

who enter. Whether stopping by for a visit or deciding to call this charmer your own, enchantment is sure to be its calling card.

Well worthy of consideration for those who cherish the finer things of life.

Facts for buyers

But as was touched upon earlier, the interior of this superlative home is just half the story. For the rest, we have to travel to the rear yard, where more delights await.

From the exquisite pool to the lush, tree-top gazebo, this area is designed for entertaining from spring until autumn.

Enjoy the built-in barbecue grill, or take a splash in the pool.

Upscale in every degree, the home also offers a warmth and charm to all

Address: 7820 Swinks Mill Court, McLean (22102).

Listed at: $2,289,000 by Casey Margenau, Casey Margenau Fine Homes and Estates (703) 442-8600.

Schools: Spring Hill Emenetary, Cooper Middle, Langley High School.

Over 2.5 Billion Sold

KNOWLEDGE 18

|

EXPERIENCE

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

|

TRUST

www.GreatFallsGreatHomes.com ST JU

D TE LIS

Great Falls

RT SO RE

$999,999 Great Falls ES CR A 5

Great Falls

$1,399,000 Great Falls

Great Falls

$775,000 Great Falls

T ON FR E K LA

Great Falls

T ON FR E K LA

$1,148,000 Reston

ES CR 5A

Great Falls

ND LA

$1,199,000 Great Falls

NG IVI EL L Y ST

$2,395,000 Great Falls

$2,425,000

S RE AC 1 1

$1,250,000 Leesburg

$1,399,000 Great Falls

$315,000

$1,199,000

S ES CC A KE LA

$829,999 Reston

$635,900

ES CR 5A

$535,000 Great Falls

$1,495,000

Jan Dan Laytham • Dianne Van Volkenburg 703-757-3222 Susan Canis Sally Marvin Justin Scango

Associate Realtor Associate Realtor Associate Realtor

9841Georgetown Pike Great Falls VA 22066 OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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GRAND OPENING NEW FURNISHED MODEL OPEN SUNDAY 12PM-4PM

GROUNDBREAKING...

Model Depiction from other Location

DECORATED MODEL GRAND OPENING

$3,395,000 ,000

1232 DALEVIEW DRIVE, MCLEAN, VIRGINIA 22102 Come Experience Traditional New England Architecture.

Built with Detail and Style.

Sales By: Yeonas & Shafran Real Estate 703.790.3330 Directions: From the heart of McLean: Go west on Old Dominion Dr. 2.9 miles, turn left on Rector Lane. Continue 1 mile to right on Daleview, go 1 block to 1232.

Artisan Builders | 6862 Elm Street, Suite 410 | McLean, VA 22101 | 703.328.0324 | artisanbuilds.com

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I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

Index Tracking Home Prices Is Up 5% Over Past Year U.S. home values are up 5 percent over the past year, to a Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) of $188,100, according to the August Zillow Real Estate Market Reports.

Home values have been growing at a 5 percent annual rate since the beginning of the year. The most recent income data released by the Census shows incomes rising by 5.2 percent, which is good news for those looking to break into the housing market. For the first time since 2011, incomes have been appreciating faster than home values.

Inventory is beginning to pick back up from the lows experienced at the beginning of the year, but there are still 5 percent fewer homes for sale than a year ago.

Going forward, as more homes start to become available, home value growth may ease. Zillow predicts home value growth to slow down to a 2.7 percent appreciation rate by this time next year.

For the sixth straight month, Portland, Dallas, Seattle and Denver reported the highest year-over-year home value appreciation among the 35 largest U.S. metros, with home value growth in the double-digits. In Portland, home values rose almost 15 percent, to a median value of $338,900.

While home values continue to rise in tech-centers San Francisco and San Jose, they’ve slowed considerably since last year. Median home values in both markets are up about 6 percent over the past year, compared to over 12 percent in 2015. No

longer are these two metros among the top appreciating U.S. housing markets.

“The housing market is starting to smooth out ever so slightly, as the peak home shopping season winds down,” said Zillow chief economist Dr. Svenja Gudell.

“This is good news for frenzied buyers tired of tight inventory, rapidly rising home prices and intense competition. Inventory, while still down nationwide and in most areas, is actually starting to rise in a handful of markets, including the Bay Area, Texas and parts of the Southwest.”

“But make no mistake,” Gudell said, “it’s still tough out there for buyers, especially in Western markets like Seattle, Denver and Portland that have strong job growth.

Things won’t switch from a sellers’ market

to a buyers’ market overnight, but conditions are starting to improve.”

Rents continue to rise, though not as quickly as home values. Last year at this time, rents were up over 6 percent, but are now appreciating by just 1.7 percent, to a Zillow Rent Index (ZRI) of $1,405.

Of the 35 largest U.S. metros, Seattle, Portland, Sacramento and San Diego reported the highest year-over-year rent appreciation. Rents in Seattle have seen the fastest annual appreciation for the third month in a row, up almost 10 percent over the past year to a median of $2,067 per month.

In Portland, the median rent rose to $1,777 per month, up 7 percent over the past year.

A flurry of financial obstacles and lifestyle choices are stalling the journey to home ownership for many young adults, but becoming a homeowner is currently more feasible in some metro areas, according to new research by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

NAR analyzed employment gains, population trends, income levels and housing conditions in the largest 100 metropolitan statistical areas across the country to identify the best purchase markets for Millennial home-buyers.

Despite having a high cost of housing,

the D.C. region ranked in the top 10.

The top 10 metro areas NAR identified were chosen for their above-average share of current Millennial residents and recent movers, favorable employment opportunities and relatively low qualifying incomes needed to purchase a home.

NAR’s study found that the best purchase markets for Millennial buyers currently are (listed in alphabetical order) Austin, Texas; Charleston, S.C.; Denver; Minneapolis; Ogden, Utah; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh, N.C.; Salt Lake City; Seattle; and Washington, D.C.

Other markets NAR identified for having promising potential for Millennial homebuyers include Boston; Dallas; Des Moines; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Nashville.

Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, says although Millennials have made up the largest share of buyers for three consecutive years, sales to first-time buyers and the home-ownership rate for young adults under the age of 35 remain depressed at levels not seen in decades – all this in spite of historically low mortgage rates, escalating rental costs and low unemployment levels among those with a

college education.

“Even with potentially higher incomes, prospective Millennial homebuyers residing in some of the most expensive cities in the country face the onerous task of paying steep rents while trying to save for an adequate down payment,” Yun said in a press release.

“However, for those currently living in or looking to move to a more affordable part of the country, there are metro areas right now with solid job growth and that offer a smoother path to ownership,” he said.

In Some Areas of U.S., Buying a House Is Becoming Easier for Millennials

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Nearly Half of Millennials Let Love Decide Where to Move A recently released survey shows nearly half of Millennials have relocated as adults to a new city or state due to matters of the heart.

While Millennials are currently the largest generation in the U.S. workforce and 51 percent of Millennials surveyed have moved for employment, jobs are far from the only reason this cohort is searching for new cities to call home.

According to the 2016 Mayflower Mover Insights study, which focused on Millennial moving trends, nearly half (46 percent) of 18-to-35-year-olds have moved to

a new city, state or country to be with or find a romantic partner.

“They tell us that in addition to new careers, relationships and experiences are the driving forces causing this generation to pick up and move,” said Melissa Sullivan, director of marketing communications for Mayflower.

In addition to moving for relationships, the study found that nearly half (48 percent) of Millennials have moved for a new lifestyle or experience, but the experiences they value are varied.

The study does show this generation

continues to be enamored by urban centers, with more than half (55 percent) currently residing in a big city or an inner suburb near the city and nearly three in five (57 percent) responding their continued desire to live in a big city or an inner suburb near the city.

The age group with the highest percentage of respondents living in an urban environment is 24-to-29-year-olds, with three in five currently living in a big city or an inner suburb near the city.

Of those between the ages of 30 and 35, less than 20 percent said they currently

live in a medium sized town and even less in a distant suburb (14 percent).

While the oldest Millennials may not be as likely to live in a downtown area, they still prefer attributes often associated with more urban settings, with this age group expressing more than any other the “want” to live in a city with close proximity to microbreweries and wineries.

The youngest Millennials (18-23) were significantly more likely than the oldest Millennials (30-35) to identify live music and an active single scene as a priority for where they live, according to the survey.

HomeAid Northern Virginia has named Russell Rosenberger Jr., president of Madison Homes, as the 2016 recipient of its annual Presidents’ Award.

He will receive the award at HomeAid Northern Virginia’s 15th Anniversary Gala and Auction, set for Nov. 5 at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles.

“Russ’ longtime leadership, collaborative approach and tireless commitment to ending local homelessness made him an ideal candidate for the Presidents’ Award,” said Greg Carter, an executive with Bank of America Merrill Lynch and president of HomeAid Northern Virginia.

“He understands the strength and power of uniting the builder community with organizations that provide shelter and

transitional housing,” Carter said. “Together, we aid in the creation and upgrading of stable living spaces for individuals and families in the process of rebuilding their lives.”

An active and engaged member of the HomeAid board of directors since 2004, Rosenberger has served as board president twice, first in 2006 and again in 2013. Under his leadership, Tysons-based Madison Homes completed four shelter projects with HomeAid Northern Virginia, leaving lasting impact on the Northern Virginia region and ensuring that vulnerable families have access to safe and stable housing options.

Madison Homes’ collaborations with HomeAid include renovations to the

Doorways for Women and Families shelter in Arlington and Shelter House/NOVACO shelter in Fairfax, both transitional-housing programs that provide a secure place for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

Most recently, Madison Homes served as the “builder captain” for a renovation of a Community Residences group home in Arlington, providing individuals with mental-health and intellectual disabilities supportive housing and the physical, mental and emotional services needed to facilitate independent living.

“Russ appreciates what it means to rebuild: a home, a shelter and a life,” Carter said. “His leadership and active involvement in our strategic planning has helped

drive HomeAid Northern Virginia’s success and expansion from two to three local projects per year a decade ago to now more than 10 projects per year serving our local community.”

HomeAid Northern Virginia was started in 2001 by members of the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA), and since then, has completed more than 111 projects valued at more than $13.8 million, serving more than 95,000 homeless individuals. The Presidents’ Award is the organization’s highest honor.

In addition to his involvement with HomeAid, Rosenberger is an active member of NVBIA at the local and national levels, according to the organization.

HomeAid N.Va. Presents Local Builder with Its Top Accolade

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What Areas Were Most Populous Through the Years?

If we’re to trust Wikipedia – and when has it steered us wrong? – then Shanghai, China, is the world’s largest city, with a population of more than 24.3 million, followed by Karachi, Pakistan (23.5 million) and Beijing, China (21.5 million).

(These count only the cities themselves; if counting an entire metropolitan area, Shanghai at 34 million inhabitants is No. 2 behind Tokyo, with a metro-area population of nearly 37 million.)

But take a dip back in history, and the largest cities have evolved significantly.

While the data is not always conclusive, or even available, author Tertius Chandler in 1987 went to the source material for “Four Thousand Years of Urban Growth: An Historical Census” (St. David’s University Press).

What did the effort uncover? An everevolving shift in concentrations of large

population centers, including some oncemassive cities that no longer exist or are mere shadows of their one-time bigness.

Here we go, with figures largely representing the city proper and surrounding areas: 100 A.D.: With a population of about 450,000, Rome appears to have been the world’s largest city, followed by Luoyang, China (420,000). No other city came close, although both Seleucia in Iraq and Alexandria in Egypt boasted populations estimated at 250,000.

1000 A.D.: Cordova, Spain, was tops on the list, with a population estimated at 450,000, followed by Kaifeng, China (400,000). Constantinople, now known as Istanbul, was third with an estimated population of 300,000, followed by Ankor, Cambodia (200,000); Kyoto, Japan (175,000); and Cairo (135,000).

1500 A.D.: Beijing had moved to the top of the list, with an estimated population of 672,000, followed by Vijayanagar, India (500,000); Cairo (400,000); Hangzhou, China (250,000); and Tabriz, Iran (250,000). Interestingly, the population of Constantinople had declined by a third, to 200,000. Moving onto the list in eighth position was Paris, with an estimated population of 185,000.

1800 A.D.: Beijing becomes the first city in the ranking to break the millionresident mark, with an estimated population of 1.1 million. London shoots up to second place at 861,000, followed by Guangzhou, China (800,000). Edo, today known as Tokyo, ranks fourth at 685,000, and Constantinople bounces back with 570,000. Paris is sixth at 547,000, and – interestingly – Naples joins the ranking in seventh place at 430,000.

1900 A.D.: The huge urbanization of the previous century, particularly in the West, is evident both in some changing rankings and a massive increase in population totals. London tops the ranking with a population of 6.5 million, followed by New York (4.2 million), Paris (3.3 million), Berlin (2.7 million), Chicago (1.7 million) and Vienna (just under 1.7 million). Rounding out the top 10 were Tokyo (1.5 million), St. Petersburg (1.44 million), Manchester (1.44 million) and Philadelphia (1.42 million).

1950 A.D.: The New York metropolitan area was the world’s largest by far, with an estimated population of 12.5 million.

It was followed by London (8.6 million), Tokyo (7 million), Paris (5.9 million) and Shanghai (4.51 million). Also near the top were Moscow (5.1 million), Buenos Aires (5 million) and Chicago (4.9 million).

A survey looking at the public’s view of housing issues finds presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump running neck-and-neck when it comes to which candidate would be better for real estate.

Thirty-eight percent of the respondents cited Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, 37 percent replied Republican nominee Donald Trump and 25 percent reported “don’t know” or “no opinion” in

the survey, commissioned for the National Association of Home Builders.

The nationwide survey of more than 2,800 registered voters was conducted July 22-24 by the polling firm Morning Consult. The presidential question was just one portion of the broader survey, which was designed to gauge public sentiment on the value of home ownership and government programs that encourage home ownership and housing production.

The poll showed that an overwhelming four out of five Americans believe that owning a home is a good investment.

“The survey shows that most Americans believe that owning a home remains an integral part of the American Dream, and that policymakers need to take active steps to encourage and protect home ownership,” said NAHB chairman Ed Brady, an Illinoise builder and developer.

Among the key findings:

• 82 percent of respondents rate “a home for you to live in” a good or excellent investment (the highest of six choices), far ahead retirement accounts, at 67 percent.

• 81 percent of 18-29-year-olds want to buy a home.

• 72 percent support the government’s providing tax incentives to encourage home ownership.

• 46 percent say now is a good time to buy a home.

When It Comes to Housing Issues, Voters Are Split on Clinton and Trump

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TRADITIONAL SHINGLE

Home Improvements in the Works? Use a Handy Checklist to Get Job Done

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) likes to advise homeowners of the 10 most important steps to take before the remodeling project starts.

“The planning and researching phases of a project are the most critical steps in the remodeling process,” said Judy Mozen, national president and president of Handcrafted Homes Inc. in Roswell, Ga. “The more knowledgeable and prepared a homeowner is, the more they protect themselves.”

What can a homeowner do to prepare for a remodel? NARI provides a top 10 list of steps homeowners should take before breaking ground on their next remodel.

Research your project. Taking time to research projects on the Internet and at www.nari.org will provide a good sense of what is involved such as price, scope of work, return on investment and new product/material options.

Also, research property values in your neighborhood to make sure your project is in line with other homes in the area.

Plan projects around the longterm. How long do you plan to stay in your home? How might your family structure change over time? Life can change quickly – these questions should be answered early on to ensure your project will fit your lifestyle long after it’s complete.

Set your budget. Deciding on a realistic budget and arranging finances to support your project are essential. This number needs to include everything – the project, products, contingencies, etc. Don’t be afraid to share this with your remodeler; professionals are respectful of a client’s budget and will create a plan around it, not over it.

Use an advanced search for professionals. The online world makes it easy to gather information about strangers.

Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals and then spend time researching that person online. Professional remodelers take their reputation seriously and hold credentials beyond licensing, such as certifications, memberships in trade associations and additional training. Look for examples of press coverage or involvement in industry presentations or events. Check online reviews and social media to see how they interact with past clients and peers.

Ask the right questions. Time and cost are important, but getting the right information requires the right questions. Ask your professional remodeler about his educational background, training, specialties or past issues with clients. Ask about how the remodeling process will work.

Verify your remodeler. Don’t take their word for it. Check the information given to you such as references, license numbers, insurance information and certifications by calling providers to verify. Request a visit to an active client’s jobsite. Make it known that you are checking on him – a true professional considers that as a positive sign to working with a homeowner.

Review contracts word-by-word. A remodeling contract protects you and your remodeler. Homeowners should review this carefully. Professional remodelers have done this before, and know what should go in a contract.

Homeowners are not as familiar with remodeling and should ask about terms if they don’t understand. Pay attention to details about change orders, payment, additional fees, timeline and responsibilities. If it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t exist.

Keep design in mind. Your design guides the entire project. Think about what you dislike about your current space and the intended use of the new space. Use Web sites to gather design Continued on Page 30

With Winter Approaching, Time to Get Your Home Weatherized for the Coming Weather (StatePoint) Extreme temperatures – hot or cold – can send your energy bills through the roof while also creating an uncomfortable living space for your family.

Almost two-thirds of American adults live in a home that needs weatherization, according to a recent online survey, commissioned by Duck brand, conducted by Harris Poll. To bring down energy costs

and make the temperature in your home more comfortable, consider defending your home with helpful tools like Roll-On Window Kits, Double Draft Seals, Socket Sealers and Attic Stairway Covers.

You can also adjust ceiling fans, install a programmable thermostat and open or close curtains to leverage sunlight and shade.

OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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Realtor Q&A Continued from Page 14 “It depends on the style of the house if buyers prefer mullions. Sometimes, young buyers are not sophisticated enough about the styles to discern a difference. It is really opening a Pandora’s box by discussing windows, because there are so many different grades and qualities, and if replacement is even necessary.”

Jack Shafran, Yeonas and Shafran Real Estate: “Shutters can complement a house and add value for the right architectural style, like on a colonial or Cape Cod. But if you take shutters and try to put them on a contemporary home of the wrong architectural style, it’s not going to work, and make the house look poor.”

“Buyers don’t really have a preference for grids or dividers. What does add value are new windows of any kind.”

William F.X. Moody, Washington Fine Properties: “Depending on the architectural style of the home, shutters could be the accessory that pulls the whole richness of the house together. On others, they could be nothing but a distraction and noise, which clogs the simple elegance and architectural style that the house already has.”

“In English and French architecture, a casement window is the only way to properly display the house’s style. To a colonial or Georgian, double-hung window is the1 HBM aSUN GAZETTE AD 1-5-2016f.pdf only way to present its style – always with

dividers and panes. There are certain windows that go with certain types of architecture, and certain ones that don’t.”

Jane Price, Weichert: “The value of exterior shutters is different, dependent on the style of the home.”

“Selling many older homes, I see the high value that good-quality window replacements add. With a wide range of choices today in terms of energy and decorative features, home buyers and their home inspectors are pretty well educated on what exactly they are getting when buying a home with new windows. Window size and architectural interest can definitely add or detract from a home’s value.”

Lilian Jorgenson, Long & Foster: “Yes, shutters make a huge difference. It brings color to the facade and it widens the look of the house and brings a certain charm.”

“Windows are huge. Your custom homes have true divided-light windows and are your most expensive windows.

When you look through, there is a certain glow from the depth through the windows.

(True divided-light windows are the ones with the individual pane frames). Newer constructions are doing one pane of glass and the dividers pop out or they are built between the panes (for easier cleaning), but is on the cheaper side.”

Casey Margeneau, Casey Margeneau Fine Homes & Estates: “No, they don’t make a difference in adding value, but they could help sell the house and improve the look of a house.”

Craig8:40Mastrangelo, Re/Max Al1/5/16 AM legiance: “Exterior shutters can provide

perceived value if a buyer finds the exterior of the home more appealing than its competition.”

“A current trend with windows is the transom – a horizontal window above window frames. Transom windows have made their way into the interior of homes, and are built above entryways to rooms such as the dining room, living room and office/libraries. Having transoms allows a homeowner to have a room closed off while allowing natural sunlight to extend beyond just that one room.”

Billy Buck, Buck & Associates: “Shutters are not high on my list of adding value.”

“More people are interested in having energy-efficient windows than anything else. That’s what’s on the top of their minds.”

Vivian Lyons, Lyons McGuire Homes and Estates: “The answer to both questions is ‘it depends.’ Shutters on a contemporary home would not be consistent with the architecture, so would not add value. They might even reduce the value.”

“Likewise, windows with divided panes might look odd on a contemporary home, while windows without divided panes might look odd on a traditional brick home. Personally, I think shutters and divided panes give a traditional home an elegant, finished look. Will they add measurable value? Probably not directly. What they do is enhance the aesthetics so that a traditional home with those elements might be the home that gets selected by the buyer.”

John Mentis, Long & Foster: “I

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have the same answer for both questions.

Whether shutters or windows, the style, size and color of them needs to add to the curb appeal of the house. The wrong color or style of either windows or shutters can actually detract from a property’s desirability.”

Sam Wardle, Buck & Associates: “The style of a home will dictate if shutters add value. For traditionally-styled colonial and farmhouse-type homes, shutters can add value and a nice finishing touch to exterior appeal. However, shutters would not be a good choice for modern or contemporary homes as they distract from the minimalist design goal. Don’t go cheap, or it will show. Choose shutters and hardware that complement the home’s look.”

“The style of the home should dictate the type of window that will add the most value to the exterior aesthetic. Modern and contemporary homes look best with larger undivided windows in keeping with a minimalist design. Meanwhile, colonial or farmhouse styles look best with divided or multi-pane windows in keeping with their traditional look.”

Steve Wydler, Wydler Brothers Real Estate: “Shutters all depend on the style of the home. Shutters can give some homes more character and a finished look, then some styles don’t need shutters.”

“It’s hard for people to explain, but looking at a house with higher-quality grids on both sides of the windows makes a house feel like it is on the higher end.”

Lisa Groover, McEnearney Associates: “Plantation shutters do provide value to a property. The look is clean and fits most tastes.”

Sue Goodhart, McEnearney Associates: “Shutters add value to certain types of homes. They do not add value if they are put on the wrong style of home, or if they are broken or crooked.”

“Styles of windows can make all the difference in how a home looks and feels.

This is very much dependent on the style of home and whether they enhance the curb appeal or not.”

Jean Beatty, McEnearney Associates: “People prefer homes with shutters.

It adds charm to a home. Most people do not have an opinion about the type of shutters, but like having them.”

“Windows are a huge thing for nearly every buyer. The typical buyer doesn’t pay too much attention to the type of window or the style, but they don’t want to replace windows. If you are planning to move in the near future and want to get the most amount of money for your home, replace your windows.”

Donna Moseley, TTR Sotheby’s International: “Shutters need to match the style of the house, but are really not a major element for the sales price. Shutters are not a reason to pass on purchasing a home.”

“For windows, the driver is the quality, but architectural integrity is important.

Every manufacturer has window styles that will match the property architectural style. Bad decisions on window styles can be costly, but bad decisions on the window Continued on Page 30

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Contemporary Styles Found Inside and Out

Creativity Was Used to Renovate Classic Home for Updated Living

H

onesty is the best policy, and we here on the Sun Gazette real-estate desk acknowledge that we sometimes are split on modern architecture. It’s a subjective task to evaluate whether the visual appeal is fresh and vibrant, or too far afield for public consumption.

There’s no split verdict with this week’s featured property, as the staff’s first impression – interior and exterior – with the home was that it was unique, creative and elegant in a 21st-century, urban-village way.

Creative use of space and materials showcase a stylish design, and the home retains a welcoming charm both for daily living and for entertaining in style, all in the heart of 22205 territory.

The property, located a block south of Lee Highway convenient to the LeeHarrison Shops, currently is on the market, listed at $1,375,000 by Michelle Sagatov of McEnearney Associates.

The original home, from Arlington’s classic era, was remodeled a decade ago

by John Burke, principal and cofounder of Studio Twenty Seven Architecture.

That remodel doubled the size of the home, but was done with an approach that was equal parts thoughtful and innovative. The result was the transformation of a traditional colonial into a stunning and chic modern abode, but one that meshes with its surroundings.

Set back on a lovely and verdant lot, it proved both a subtle and innovative addition to the community. Even the front porch manages to be both welcoming and creative at the same time.

As we tour the interior domains, note that walls of glass, large picture windows and skylights work to bring the beauty of nature inside. Traffic flow is effective at managing the ebb and flow of daily life as well as those times when a crowd gathers. The walls are ready for some of your favorite artwork to begin their residence.

We have a few favorite spaces and special touches that are worth highlighting: • The floating staircase is a delightful welcome to the home, giving a taste of all that will follow as we begin our ex- matic, while its wood-burning fireplace adds a touch of charm. ploration.

• The kitchen is the central hub of • The sunken living room is a deINSIDENOVA pocket-sized. light, with a contemporary gas fireplace the home, featuring stainless-steel appliances, custom backsplash and three panmarking a tone ofNow upscale elegance. no matter where you are, tries that will provide copious space. room isget unique andlocal dra-news, can all your • The dining you INSIDENOVA pocket-sized. sports, and traffic.

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entertaining, including the recreation room with wet bar. Also to be found on the lower level is a home theater and workout room.

High-tech touches abound, including built-in speakers on three levels and centralized media-control centers.

One of the standouts of our tour is the designer lighting, which includes special touches such as inset floor lighting, a light-up sink in a half bath, and modern light fixtures throughout.

It’s a standout that will exceed expectations. Enjoy!

• Each of the five bedrooms is a delight, none more so than the excellent master retreat, which is perfect for stress reduction. A home office on the upper level complements the bedrooms.

• The lower level features informal delights for family living and gracious

Facts for buyers

Address: 5432 24th Street North, Arlington (22205).

Listed at: $1,375,000 by Michelle Sagatov, McEnearney Associates (703) 717-6309.

Schools: Nottingham Elementary, Swanson Middle, Yorktown High.

Now no matter where you are, you can get all your local news, sports, and traffic.

Download the InsideNoVa app, then follow all the news in Northern Virginia anywhere you go.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE INSIDENOVA APP AT THE ITUNES STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY.

I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

Laurie Mensing

Every transaction is treated as if it was my own

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OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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Sales of New Homes Look Solid in Latest National Report Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 7.6 percent in August from an upwardly revised July reading to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 609,000 units, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

This marks the second consecutive month that sales have topped a 600,000 annual

pace since the Great Recession.

“Given the huge jump in sales in July, the August reading remains robust,” said Ed Brady, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder and developer from Bloomington, Ill. “Sales are up 21 percent from August last year and year-to-date they are running 13 percent higher, indicating that

the housing recovery remains firmly on track.”

“A low supply of homes, a broadening of the market with additional sales growth in lower price points and rising household formation all point to a growing demand for housing as we move into 2017,” said NAHB chief economist Robert Dietz.

The inventory of new homes for sale

was 235,000 in August, which is a 4.6month supply at the current sales pace.

The median sales price of new houses sold was $284,000.

Regionally, new home sales fell by 34.3 percent in the Northeast, 12.3 percent in the South and 2.4 percent in the Midwest.

Sales rose 8 percent in the West, according to the data.

Realtor Q&A

quality is a bigger issue for most buyers.”

Tania Hosmer, Keller Williams: “In general, shutters add interest and curb appeal and can add value to a home if they are attractive and the right type and color.

Actual working shutters are best and provide an element of architectural detail to any home. The color is also important and should always complement the rest of the exterior of the home.”

“Dividers and panes in a typical colonial-style window add interesting architectural features when looking at the

home from the outside, and definitely can add curb appeal if they are the right style and type.”

“However, from inside the home, dividers can slightly decrease the amount of light flowing into the home. Thus, homeowners should weigh the options when installing windows. Certain other types and styles of windows can add value and curb appeal and allow additional light into the home.”

Natalie Roy, Keller Williams: “Replacing or repairing and painting old shut-

ters on the exterior can have a big impact on prospective buyers. Curb appeal is very important, and first impressions are key in the home-buying process.”

“New double- or triple-pane windows are a huge plus in a home sale. Buyers are also very concerned about their utility costs and want windows that are energyefficient.”

“And it goes without saying that windows that offer tons of natural light and have great views (while still providing privacy) are very popular.”

and value into your design.

Make your selections. Deciding on products and materials is a larger process than most imagine. With so many options to choose from, product selections are one of the primary reasons for project timelines to get extended. Base decisions on quality, function, price, style and availability. Include selections in the contract to lock down pricing and keep your budget intact.

Create a communication plan. A common downfall in remodeling is lack of communication between homeowners and remodelers. Your remodeler should lay out a communication plan at the beginning of the project. If not, ask them to do so. This plan should clarify roles of everyone involved, communication methods, availability and frequency of communication that is expected.

Open Saturday Oct 8

SOLD in ONE DAY

Continued from Page 26

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

EHO

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law.

Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753. Email: fairhousing@dpor. virginia.gov. Web site: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

5 Acres for Sale

Checklist Continued from Page 25 ideas. Make sure you can articulate specifically what you like about that design when talking to your designer.

Professionals don’t recreate a photo – they incorporate accessibility, functionality, ease of modification, style

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I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

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OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6 • SU N GA ZETTE R EA L ESTATE G UIDE • INSIDE NOVA.C OM

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I N S I DEN OVA. C O M • S UN GAZ E T TE R EA L ESTATE GU I DE • OCTOB ER 2 0 1 6

www.margenau.com 703.827.5777