Apothecary Museum is a Trip Back in Time at Old Town Alexandria VA

Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was opened by a Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler in 1792 and is one of the oldest pharmacies in the country. Located on 105-107 South Fairfax Street Alexandria, Virginia in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. In addition to being a pharmacist, Stabler was dedicated to the abolition of slavery and the expansion of educational opportunities. Among other accomplishments, Stabler purchased many slaves for the express purpose of granting their freedom. Edward Stabler died in 1831, but his son continued to run the business for many years after. This particular building served and survived through many important events in United States history such as the War of 1812. The pharmacy was of great importance during the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1821. During the Civil War the apothecary furnished medicines for the Union. The pharmacy also served during the Spanish-American War of 1898, and World War I. Finally, in 1933 the shop closed due to the Great Depression. At that time the contents of the shop were sold, and the money that was raised was used to preserve the property as a museum. In 1939 the shop re-opened as a museum and 43 years later Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. With over 8,000 objects-- gold-leaf labels, hand-blown medicine bottles, pill rollers, show-globes, mortars & pestles-- the museum provides visitors with a wide, fantastic collection. The first floor is in the Gothic Revival style from 1835. On the second floor names of herbs and medicine are in their original hand writing placed on the walls and shelving of the interior. The Apothecary is home to many important artifacts, journals, receipts, ledgers, and invoices, and also include many historical figures names in documents, Martha Washington, James Monroe, and Robert E. Lee.The purpose of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is to promote the history and educate people about the values of Edward Stabler. More importantly, the museum promotes a better knowledge of historic public health issues of the past. It was a center of daily life in Old Town Alexandria, and as a museum the apothecary is still having an positive impact today. This museum is just one of the many features that make Old Town an attractive destination for tourists and a highly prized location for residents. Parking can be a hassle in Old Town, but the problem can be avoided by taking the Metro and the King St. Free Trolley, which stops near the museum.

Who pays to maintain your condo?

Historic Carlyle House in Old Town Alexandria is more than 250 years old.
The historic Carlyle House in Old Town Alexandria is more than 250 years old.

Everything built by man requires some maintenance at some point.

Even so-called maintenance-free homes require some attention. So when making the transition from renting to buying, one aspect of home ownership that must be considered carefully is maintenance. Renters enjoy few advantages over buyers, but one benefit of renting is that in most cases renters needn't worry about the expense maintaining a property. Many first time buyers aren't ready to take on the hassles and expenses of yard work, gutter cleaning, painting and so on, and for this reason condos are a viable and interesting alternative. In the case of a condo, maintenance can be separated into two categories: owner's responsibilities and association responsibilities. These exact nature of these duties and responsibilities will vary from condo to condo, but there are a few rules of thumb. For example, certain retirement communities provide maid service as part of the condo, but most often the condo owner is responsible for cleaning his own unit. In most cases, the condo owner must clean the condo interior, including all windows which are reachable from the interior. The condo owner must clean of his or her private balcony or patio. Most renters are accustomed to this type of arrangement already.
kitchen
An updated kitchen in a Belle View condo.
Unlike renters, condo owners own the appliances in the unit. Thus, the condo owner cleans and maintains all the appliances, but the condo owner also pays for repairs and replacements as needed. A condo owner has the power to pick his own appliances, but with that benefit comes the duty of maintaining that unit. In most older condos, the association supplies the heating and cooling to the unit, and the condo owner owns the convector or radiator (heat transfer appliance) in the unit. In new condos, the owner typically owns the HVAC (heat pump / air conditioner) that heats and cools his unit. Plumbing and electrical concerns remain for owners of single family homes and townhouses, but in all but a few rare cases the condo owner need only worry about systems that are outside the walls. For example, the condo owner typically owns the bathroom vanity and the pipes supporting that vanity, but not the pipes which supply water and take sewage away from the bathroom. A condo owner owns his kitchen cabinets, but not the electrical wires inside the wall that bring power to his kitchen appliances. In general, the condominium owner is responsible for his personal space, but the condo association is responsible for all common areas. This includes maintaining and operating the elevators and outside doors. In most cases this includes the windows. Most always, the association maintains the lawns, flowers and shrubs. The condo association maintains the roof. While the owner of a single family home must maintain his own driveway, a condo parking lot is maintained by the condominium association. The parking garage can be private, common, or common with assignments. If the parking garage is common, with or without assignments, the condo association will clean and maintain the parking. A private garage is the domain of the condominium owner.
Parking Grounds at Montebello
Parking Grounds at Montebello

Review your docs

Ultimately, you'll want review your condo documents, charter and by-law to determine exactly how your condo association interprets its domain. Rest assured, a condo owner will have more to maintain than a renter, but significantly less responsibility than the owner of a single family residence or townhouse.

What happens when an agent quits, dies or moves away?

sold sign
Nesbitt Realty lists and sells property in Northern Virginia.
Take the example of an imaginary agent name Charles Valiant of Imaginary Realty. Charles' client Dana Tennett wants to sell her house. So Dana approaches Charles. Dana signs a 90 day exclusive listing to sell her home. A week later, Charles decides to "chuck" it all. He moves to Japan and puts his license on inactive status. What happens to Dana's listing? Does it just become an open listing because the agent is gone? Is the listing voidable on the grounds of abandonment? Does the listing remain in effect? Or, is the listing automatically terminated because Charles quit? A listing agreement is between a broker and a seller, not between an agent and seller. Therefore, Dana listed her property with Imaginary Realty and not with Charles. The listing remains in effect and unchanged. The broker at Imaginary Realty should assign an agent or meet with Dana to select the best agent for the job. For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.
  • The difference between equitable title and legal title

    Julie Nesbitt
    Do you know the difference between equitable title and legal title? Equitable title is conveyed to the buyer when the seller signs the offer to purchase. A ratified sales contract creates equitable title. After closing and accepting the deed, the buyer receives legal title. Equitable title does not carry all the rights, privileges and duties…

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  • What is the Virginia Condominium Act?

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    If you own a condo in Virginia, or if you're thinking of buying a condominium in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it might be a good idea to glance at the Virginia Condominium Act. This act describes the terms of ownership and limitations and requirements of condo associations.  It also describes the unique attributes of condominium…

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  • Condos need maintenance …

    condo Alexandria
    Everything built by man requires some maintenance at some point. Even so-called maintenance-free homes require some attention. So when making the transition from renting to buying, one aspect of home ownership that must be considered carefully is maintenance. Renters enjoy few advantages over buyers, but one benefit of renting is that in most cases renters…

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  • Real Estate Contracts With Contingencies

    Real estate contracts sometimes come with contingencies. This is a part of the contract that states certain conditions or timelines are met or the seller or buyer can void the contract. The conditions or timelines can be any that both parties agree on and are put within the contract. Contingencies usually last for a specified period.…

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  • Update: Lepelletier case against Judge Tran Dismissed

    Nesbitt Realty is located at the Belle Haven Professional Center
    As you may already know, Robert Lepelletier, Jr. sued Nesbitt Realty and as a result he was ordered to pay sanctions to Nesbitt Realty by Fairfax County Judge John Tran. Lepelletier sued the Honorable Judge John Tran in Federal court. Lepelletier's case against Judge Tran was dismissed and his motions were denied. Despite being ordered…

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Who will you choose to sell your condo?

serving condo owners, sellers and buyers in Northern VA
Nothern Virginia Condo Experts
It should be obvious, but start by choosing a selling agent that cares about you and your condominium. The agent you choose should also understand the benefits and challenges of the condominium lifestyle. An agent who has never lived in a condo or owned property in a condo might not appreciate the benefits of life without guttering, lawn care or exterior maintenance issues. Your Condo Alexandria agent knows how a condo community functions and just how great it is to own a condominium. A Condo Alexandria agent understands why some units are more than others. A Condo Alexandria agent can help others understand what a great view you have or how nice it is to be close to the parking lot. Each condo has it's own benefits. We find your unit's benefits and make it obvious so that seller who want your condominium can find it.
  • 5 Sure Signs That Its Time To Sell Your Home

    When should I sell my home? This is not always the easiest question to answer. A lot of people don't plan on living in their first, second, or even third home forever, but still knowing when to let go and move on can be tricky. It can feel like ending a long term relationship, it's…

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  • Tips On How To Sell Your Home When You Have Kids

    Nesbitt Realty
    Selling your home can be a stressful event but having kids around can create more stressful moments for parents who are seeking to sell their home.

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  • 6 Budget Tips For Staging A House To Sell In Arlington

    If you are trying to land a great deal for your property in Arlington, then you can't afford to overlook home staging. You'll want to hold a terrific open house- one that leaves the attendees entranced.  And the good thing is, you can do that without having to break the bank.

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  • How To Make Your 2-BR 2 BA Garden-Style Condo More Interesting For Property Shoppers Considering Palazzo At Park Center

    How To Make Your 2-BR 2 BA Garden-Style Condo More Interesting For Property Shoppers Considering Palazzo At Park Center thumbnail
    It's pretty obvious, but staged places sell. What can you do if your residence is already adorable?

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  • Staging Hints For Sellers With A Place At Stratford On The Potomac In 22308

    Staging Hints For Sellers With A Place At Stratford On The Potomac In 22308 thumbnail
    Are you planning to list your residence? A home that isn’t staged may sell if properly prices. On the other hand, a staged place of residence will sell faster and for more money. What steps can you take now to sell your split foyers-style house in a Split Foyer-style community?

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10 Metros That Attract the Wealthy

Traditional Townhouses of Carlyle City Residences
Traditional Townhouses of Carlyle City Residences
According to new U.S. Census Bureau data as interpreted by CNNMoney, the suburbs have the highest concentration of wealthy people, more so than cities. The wealthy tend to stay near major population centers, according to the study. For example, the region with the highest concentration of wealthy households in the nation is Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Conn., which is just north of New York City. Nearly 18 percent of residents there make more than $191,469 per year. In the nation, only 5 percent make that income. The following are the 10 metros with the highest concentration of high-income households, as well as the percentage in each area where households are among the top 5 percent of U.S. incomes. (The study did not take into account the cost of living in these areas.)
  1. Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Conn.: 17.9%
  2. San Jose-Sunnyvalle-Santa Clara, Calif.: 15.9%
  3. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C.-Va.-Md.-W.Va.: 14.1%
  4. San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, Calif.: 13%
  5. Trenton-Ewing, N.J.: 11.6%
  6. New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, N.Y.-N.J.-Pa.: 10%
  7. Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, Calif.: 9.7%
  8. Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, Mass.-N.H.: 9.7%
  9. Boulder, Colo.: 9.4%
  10. Napa, Calif.: 9.3%
Source: “Where the Rich People Live,” CNNMoney (Feb. 12, 2013)

10 Projects to Improve the Value of Your Home That Don’t Break Your Budget

This is the 15th year that Remodeling magazine has released the Cost vs. Value Report. The purpose of this report is to compare the cost of an improvement versus the value the improvement will likely add to the sale of your home. If you're thinking of selling this year, take a look at this list and see what might best benefit your home and family. This year’s survey included more than 3,900 appraisers, sales agents, and brokers across the country who provided their opinions and estimates.

Top 10 Midrange Projects

1. Entry Door Replacement (steel) Job Cost: $1,137 Resale Value: $974
brick house
Comfortable brick home with enclosed porch and dormers
Cost Recouped: 85.6 percent 2. Deck Addition (wood) Job Cost: $9,327 Resale Value: $7,213 Cost Recouped: 77.3 percent 3. Garage Door Replacement Job Cost: $1,496 Resale Value: $1,132 Cost Recouped: 75.7 percent 4. Minor Kitchen Remodel Job Cost: $18,527 Resale Value: $13,977 Cost Recouped: 75.4 percent 5. Window Replacement (wood) Job Cost: $10,708 Resale Value: $7,852 Cost Recouped: 73.3 percent (tie) 6. Attic Bedroom Addition Job Cost: $47,919 Resale Value: $34,916 Cost Recouped: 72.9 percent (tie) 6. Siding Replacement (vinyl) Job Cost: $11,192 Resale Value: $8,154 Cost Recouped: 72.9 percent 7. Window Replacement (vinyl) Job Cost: $9,770 Resale Value: $6,961 Cost Recouped: 71.2 percent 8. Basement Remodel Job Cost: $61,303 Resale Value: $43,095 Cost Recouped: 70.3 percent 9. Major Kitchen Remodel Job Cost: $53,931
kitchen
Here's a kitchen where we managed a very cheap kitchen refurbish.
Resale Value: $37,139 Cost Recouped: 68.9 percent 10. Deck Addition (composite) Job Cost: $15,084 Resale Value: $10,184 Cost Recouped: 67.5 percent

About Hallmark Condominiums near Holmes Run

The Hallmark Condominium, with 220 spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom condominium homes, enjoys a prime location in Alexandria, Virginia, with beautiful views over Holmes Run and James Marx All Veterans Park. The Hallmark is convenient to public transportation, the Beatley Central Library, shops, and a local farmers’ market. Hallmark is located at 200 North Pickett Street Alexandria, VA 22304 Hallmark amenities include:
  • attractive grounds,
  • a tennis court,
  • swimming pool,
  • fitness center, and
  • a party room with a fully equipped kitchen
  • Julie Nesbitt

    Julie Nesbitt
    Julie Nesbitt knows the back trails and by-ways of Northern Virginia real estate.

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  • Enjoying Winkler Botanical Preserve

    We had a great time walking the trails. 

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  • Don’t take chances with real estate.

  • REDUCED: 7202 Churchill Rd, McLean

    Open House, Sunday, 1-4 BIG PRICE DROP! 7202 CHURCHILL ROADMcLean, VA 221016 Bedrooms5.5 Bathrooms6,752 SF $1,695,000

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  • Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services

    Fairfax County
    Established in 1974 with a mission to reduce homelessness, increase community support and promote self sufficiency, the Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services is operated by a multi-denominational board of directors and staff managing over 70 housing units. Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services is located in the Mount Zephyr Business Center at 8305 Richmond…

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Alexandria’s Most Expensive Homes for Sale

When nothing but the best will do, check out some of Alexandria's priciest residences.
  • $1,795,000 In Alexandria At Belle Haven // 6 Beds // 6 Full Baths – 1 Half Baths

      houses at Belle Haven is in Alexandria 22307 New construction in Belle Haven. On track for spring delivery. Still have time to choose your granite tops, wood floor stain and carpet colors. Masterfully crafted and balancing architectural heritage with contemporary brilliance. Great floor … [Read more] 6 beds, 6 full, 1 part baths Home…

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  • Property At Villamay For Less Than $933,450

    Featured From Villamay $889,000 : 7414 Burtonwood Dr, Alexandria 22307 4 beds, 3 full baths Living area: 2,768 sq. ft. Lot size: 12,956 sq. ft. Year built: 1963 Days on Market: 4 See more Featured From Villamay We like to show off our image library stocked with the latest trends in Alexandria's real estate market.

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  • Latest Listings In 22124

    Nesbitt Realty can help you shop for your next home in 22124. Today's spotlight is on this house in Oakton, VA 22124. 6 beds, 3 full baths Lot Size: 60,275 sq.ft. Added: 02/11/17, Last Updated: 02/11/2017 Property Type: Residential Detached for Sale MLS Number: FX9860968 Subdivision: Vale Spring Woods houses at Vale Spring Woods is…

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  • Searching Arlington Real Estate?

    Principal Broker Will Nesbitt driving his sports utility vehicle Lincoln via Arlington
    Contact Nesbitt Realty (703) 765 0300 http://nesbittrealty.com/about/contact/

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  • A Good Time to Buy a High-End Home

    Station Square
    Some of the best housing deals are on high-end homes, many over $1 million. Some of them need TLC or they aren’t in the most-coveted locations. But there are plenty of desirable properties and lots of sellers who are getting impatient. Buyers with cash have the best opportunities. Buyers who need a mortgage should move…

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10 Ways to Prepare to Buy a Home

  1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.You can also check out our affordability calculator.
  2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.
  3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.
    • Do you prefer a commuter-friendly location or perhaps even a "walkable" home?
    • Perhaps you want to live near a specific military installation such as the Pentagon or Fort Belvoir?
    • Are you looking for a particular find homes by school district?
  4. Start saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don’t forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs — including taxes, attorney’s fee, and transfer fees — average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price. Check out our closing cost estimator.
  5. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provides a history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.
  6. Determine your mortgage qualifications. How large of mortgage do you qualify for? Also, explore different loan options — such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMs — and decide what’s best for you.
  7. Get preapproved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.
  8. Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you’ve saved to buy your fist home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal.
  9. Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.
    Will Nesbitt at Mason Neck
    Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty
  10. Contact Nesbitt Realty. Nesbitt Realty is a local family-run business that cares about your needs and has helped many people like you successfully navigate the home buying process.
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.

Virginia ranks among states with highest credit scores.

Credit scores from online mortgage shoppers have risen four points since 2011, averaging 734, according to a study by MortgageMarvel.com, which analyzed nearly half a million online mortgage applicants.
Will and Julie Nesbitt
Will and Julie Nesbitt of Nesbitt Realty.
Some states are averaging even higher credit scores, particularly among those states known for having high household earnings. The following are the states with the highest median credit scores among mortgage applicants, according to Mortgage Marvel.com:
  1. California: 774
  2. Hawaii: 771 / Oregon: 771
  3. Wisconsin: 766
  4. Connecticut: 765
  5. Delaware: 764
  6. Washington: 764
  7. Colorado: 763
  8. Rhode Island: 763
  9. New Hampshire: 762 / Virginia: 762
  10. Maryland: 761
The states with the lowest median credit score among mortgage applicants are Arkansas (691) and Mississippi (698), according to MortgageMarvel.com. Source: “Link Between Credit and Mortgages: Not What You Think,” CNBC (Jan. 24, 2013)