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Art Deco
The 1925 Paris Exhibition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs launched the Art Deco style, which echoed the Machine Age with geometric decorative elements and a vertically oriented design. This distinctly urban style was never widely used in residential buildings; it was more widespread in public and commercial buildings of the period. Towers and other projections above...Continue reading→
What’s so great about a condo?
There are many types of condominiums. Some condos look like houses or townhouses; most look like high-rises or garden-style apartments. Even though a condo can look look like a townhouse or house, owning a condo differs from owing a fee simple property in many ways. There are aspects of condo living that some may...Continue reading→
Geese and ducks at River Towers in Winter
Winter in Northern Virginia can be a little bleak at times. The foliage is gone from the trees, and the grass is a little beat. But River Towers is teaming with life. A flock of Canadian geese winters here at the creek which surrounds River Towers. One of the pleasures of living at River Towers...Continue reading→
I’m renting a condo in Alexandria, but I don’t like the color. Am I allowed to repaint it?
Question I'm renting a condo in Alexandria, but I don't like the color. Am I allowed to repaint it? Answer The best answer to this is to discuss it with your property manager or landlord. In most cases, a property manager will allow you to paint your condo whatever colors you would like. If your...Continue reading→
Condo Moving
Moving to a condo has different risks from moving into a single family home. Movers working in common areas need liability and workman's compensation insurance. Often, casual labor type movers do not have insurance--exposing the association to nearly unlimited risk from personal injury claims either from owners, tenants or the movers! The only way to...Continue reading→
Five Home Renovations That Can Deter Potential Buyers
Luxury upgrades: Avoid trendy and frivolous renovation expenditures. Simple and relevant renovations are more likely to pay off in the long haul. Garage conversion: Converting a garage to a family room can turn off potential home buyers. Some people want a garage and not a family room. Consider if you plan on selling in the...Continue reading→
Do I need pre-approval before home shopping?
Obtaining pre-approval from a bank is a daunting process. It is time consuming both due to the delay and because of the amount of paperwork required to satisfy a lender of your credit status. It is, without a doubt, the most pressing matter before beginning your home search. Proceeding without this step can lead to...Continue reading→
What should I ask about Condos?
What matters in a condo varies by the person, but questions tend to draw from the same pool of questions: What amenities are included? Is there a pool? Tennis court? Exercise room? Are pets allowed? Are there areas I can walk my dog? Are there any size or breed restrictions? Is heat electric or gas?...Continue reading→
What is a “Cape Cod”?
Some of the first houses built in the United States were Cape Cods. The original colonial Cape Cod homes were shingle-sided, one-story cottages with no dormers. During the mid-20th century, the small, uncomplicated Cape Cod shape became popular in suburban developments. A 20th-century Cape Cod is square or rectangular with one or one-and-a-half stories and...Continue reading→