The Young Professionals Survival Guide to Condo Ownership and Growing-Up

cashAlthough there are numerous benefits to owning a condo which include the lifestyle that such ownership entails; individuals living as single, young professionals who are just starting out, are arguably the most notable beneficiaries. The economic benefits that condo ownership provides for this particular demographic are two-fold. First, owning a condo is certainly less expensive than owning residential property insofar as the material upkeep and residual costs that homeownership necessitates. Second, most contemporary condo buildings offer a host of wide-ranging amenities that would command a considerable cost to an individual homeowner but which can be enjoyed instead at a significantly reduced rate to condo-owners who share jointly in the overall expense. These otherwise high-priced features and amenities usually include guarded and/or private, enclosed parking; 24-hour security and front desk staff; indoor and outdoor swimming pools; clubhouses; gated recreational facilities; etc., etc. (the list goes on and on!!). To that extent, condo ownership is therefore an ideal middle ground for the single, young professional who may very well aspire towards homeownership someday but who still remains a far cry away from white picket fences, two-car garages and 2.5 children.
Nesbitt Realty can help you buy or sell in Cameron Station.
The condos of Cameron Station include Carlton Place, Condominiums of Cameron Station Blvd, Main Street, Oakland Hall, Residences at Cameron Station and Woodland Hall.
In addition to the economically sound benefits that condo ownership provides, there are other elemental and lifestyle benefits that are associated with condominium ownership as well. Today, there are as many types of condominiums out there as there are types of people. Plainly put, the condominium marketplace has progressed with such rapidity that the variety and availability of choice in condo options is as original and unique as individual homes. Thus, each type can satisfy the different needs of different individuals and therefore enhance and accommodate every kind of lifestyle. For example, there are distinctions between what are popularly thought of as 'condominium apartments' versus those that are known as 'condominium townhouses', which might have small differences from one another save for their structure regulations. There are also condominiums known as freeholds whereby a condo owner owns the plot of land as well as any structure on the land such as a house or townhouse. Finally, for single or young professionals who are still growing into their grownup-ness, condo ownership signifies an increase in responsibility and a commitment to ownership. To be clear, condo living isn't like renting a single dwelling home or apartment and this is due to the dual nature that comes with owning any condo unit. Condominium owners hold ownership over their respective units but, additionally, each owner is also responsible for the operating costs and maintenance of the all of the shared elements on the property such as lobbies, passageways, and elevators. Here, owning a condo is effectively choosing to live within a community of other condo unit owners and thus, your neighbors. Each condominium complex is a unique community and each owner accepts the rules and regulations that are equally unique to condo living.
Condos in Ballston 880 Condominium Unit 404 Pksp 260
Arlington
In a condominium complex, you also become part of a distinctive community where you as an individual become an integral part in the community as a whole; and this includes being an essential part of the decision making process. However, the advantages that come with shared communal facilities like the pool, clubhouse, and state-of-the-art gym are collectively a strong incentive to watch your neighbors' back. In summation, owning a condo can provide both economically sensible and personally enjoyable benefits to any owner looking to buy but especially for individuals who are single, working and fairly young professionals who are new to the game but ready for more. In addition, because of the multiplicity and vast assortment of condominium units and styles that are available, condo ownership includes something for everyone. Lastly, although buying a condo certainly signifies a new level of maturation and grownup responsibility; the advantages to living in a shared community and to be able to engage as an honest and responsible neighbor will hopefully serve you both by keeping your pocketbook and your sense of self a little more full.
Condominiums are found in all shapes, sizes, prices and types. Are you looking for a high-rise condo, a mid-rise or a garden-style condo? Maybe you'd prefer a townhouse?

The term "garden-style" condo usually refers to a condominium residence in a building that has less than three stories. Most garden-style condos have balconies or patios for each residence. Many garden-style condos have a main entrance that opens to a common-area hallway. Additional common areas include the green space and "gardens" surrounding the structures. If you're interested in garden-style condos you'll have a lot of options in Northern Virginia.

From the suburban feel of Kingstowne to the central location of Bolling Brook from the vintage charm of Belle View to the chic feel of Carlyle Square, are just some of the many Northern Virginia condominium communities we feature.


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Mid-rise condos are taller than garden-style condos, but smaller than high-rise condos. Mid-rise condos in Northern Virginia are 5 to 8 stories tall and are generally found close to or inside the Beltway.


[read more about mid-rise condos]

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High-rise condos have more than 9 floors. They are generally found inside the Beltway and are often located near Metro stations, public transportation, or major commuter traffic arteries like I-395.


[read more about high-rise condos]

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For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.

Single Family Homes less than $350k with easy access to the metro

If you have a friend who is looking for easy metro access, a 3 bedroom home and only wants to spend about $300k to $350k  it will be tough. But here are my best suggestions:
  • The Huntington Metro is also an option at with homes at Bucknell Manor and the Fort Hunt area. This is a traditional 1950’s neighborhood with lots of trees and good schools.  Huntington Metro has 4500 parking spaces, so it’s a great metro to live close to because you can park and ride.
  • I also like parts of Franconia near Van Dorn but there is no parking at the Van Dorn Metro. Springfield and Burke are quite suburban but there is parking at the Franconia Springfield Metro.
  • I doubt you can find anything in Alexandria or Arlington that comes close to fitting in your budget. It’s possible to find home not far from the Vienna Metro. If you head further out towards Centreville and Oakton you can might find a home that suits you and you can drive to park at the Vienna Metro.
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.

8 Tips to Guide Your Home Search

1. Get your finances in order.

cashReview your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. Then, talk to a lender and get prequalified for a mortgage. This will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can't afford. maps

2. Research before you look.

Decide what features you most want to have in a home, what neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you'd be willing to spend each month for housing. Is walkability important to you? How about proximity to the Metro? Perhaps you want your new home to be in find homes by school district? Whether you want a condo in Arlington or a single family home in Kingstowne, a townhouse in Cameron Station or a studio in Crystal City, Nesbitt Realty probably has a search tailored to your needs. If you have trouble finding the search that you need call us and we'll be glad to help you out.

3. Be realistic.

A Single family house at 106 Quaker Ln Alexandria VA 22304
Seminary Hill is in Alexandria 22304
Once you've zeroed in on a list of homes that fit your budget and criteria, then it's time to start viewing property. It's OK to be picky, but don't be unrealistic with your expectations. There's no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities as a guide to evaluate each property. We still have a buyers' market, but that doesn't mean people are giving real estate away. Although homes have dropped in price 10% to 20% from the high-water mark a few years back, prices in Northern Virginia have tightened up and I'm not seeing further erosion in prices.

4. Don't ask too many people for opinions.

It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own. Your home is a personal choice. In the end you're the one who will pay the mortgage and you're the one who will live there, so make sure you're pleasing yourself, not your advisers.

5. Decide your moving timeline.

When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area? All of these factors will help you determine when you should move.

6. Think long term.

Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? This decision may dictate what type of home you'll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you.
home inspector
Bob Murphy is a home inspector

7. Consider a home inspection.

A home inspection is an option for every home buyer. A home inspector is a professional whose job it is to check the home out for defects. Whether you purchase a condo, townhouse or single family residence, a home inspection is an important option to consider.

8. Get help from a REALTOR®.

Hire a real estate professional who specializes in buyer representation. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a buyer's representative is working only for you. Here's the best part about employing a Realtor to represent you: buyer's reps are usually paid out of the seller's commission payment, so there is no expense to you the buyer. For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.

What your property manager should know …

Will Nesbitt
Will Nesbitt
If you own rental property, you probably should consider a property manager. If you don't know the answers to these questions, then you should definitely contact us to find out more about our property management services.
  • What is the proper procedure for filing a notice to pay rent?
  • What notices can permissibly be served to a tenant under the terms of a lease?
  • What important legislation is looming on the horizon regarding debt collection?
  • By law, what is the maximum security deposit you can collect in Virginia?
  • What rights do you have (or not have) regarding pets on your property?
  • What amenities are included (or not included) with your property?
  • What are the latest fair credit reporting rules and requirements?
  • What are the Federal and/or State laws that govern fair housing?
  • What questions are you NOT allowed to ask on an application?
  • What laws apply to abandoned personal property left behind by a tenant?
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.  

Dad, what do you do all day?

This is an old post first put up before 2009. I got a chuckle out of it and thought I'd share with you. When I come home exhausted it's tough to remember (much less explain) what the heck I did all day. Will Nesbitt --- Condo Alexandria A lot of times, I answer calls.  I get calls from renters who want to rent condos and townhouses. I get calls from buyers who want to make appointments or who just have questions.  I talk to landlords who use  our property management services. eyes closed Sometimes I really don't know the answer. But when I don't know the answer, I don't make it up.  I do my research and then I get back to my client. taking charge Sometimes I get the call that lets me know that the contract went through. We got it! But sometimes I find out there's a hitch or a catch. That's when my Priceline Negotiator comes out. tough negotiations That means it's time for some tough negotiating.  It's never fun to do that part. reporting in Yes, there are some bumps in the road, but it always works out the way it's supposed to. When I call back my clients and tell them that every thing is going to be great, I feel proud and satisfied. My wife snapped this series of pictures while I was working this morning. Condo Alexandria 703 765 0300

Do I really need a comparative market analysis?

Stuart Nesbitt is a Realtor
"I care about my clients and enjoy making their dreams come true."
One of the greatest skills that a Realtor can bring to the table for you is a knowledge of property values across a wide range of areas.  For a seller or landlord, this means you strike the right balance between getting the most value from your home and selling or renting it in a time frame that allows you to either move or capitalize on your investment. Simply looking at a neighbor's property and assessing yours based on their sale is fraught with dangers.  Realtors factor in not only differences in construction, floor plans, and location, but also have their finger on the pulse of the market.  The same stands true equally well for buyers and renters.  As a buyer looking for a bargain is key, but setting standards to high for a price range can result in wasted time, or worse yet buying an apparent steal in an area that is an investment nightmare.  Renting places you in similar straights.  Year long leases can be just as binding as buying a new home, forcing you to suffer through details that a trained Realtor will notice in your new home. For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.

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 view as advantages or disadvantages, and you should be aware of these before you buy.
serving condo owners, sellers and buyers in Northern VA
Nothern Virginia Condo Experts
Here are a few basic benefits and considerations of condo living to help you make your decision.

The City

Busy folk who love being close to the action often choose a condominium because condo developments most often occur in the city. In the Carlyle District, in Arlington and places like Skyline Square, land is at a premium. But in all these examples, your condo is well served by public transportation. These condos are also close to the culture and opportunities of the city. Of course the downside to being in town is that you're in the city---that means traffic, hustle and bustle and other disadvantages of living downtown. For example, the USPTO is crawling with people during rush hour. Crystal City is a pass-thru for many many commuters. Most homes and townhomes have a lawn or yard of some kind, but few condo owners have a yard or personal green space.

Community Living

A condominium owner is part of a community. The community lifestyle has many advantages. For example, the owner of a condo can leave things on a whim. There is no yard to worry about, and the building is secure. Neighbors and condo staff will watch the property while you're on travel or vacation. Most condos in Alexandria, Arlington, Crystal City and Falls Church have security features such as buzzers, a concierge or a guard service. If you travel often for business or pleasure (or if this is a second home), there are no worries while you're out of pocket. Many condos have clubs, activities and the opportunity to socialize with neighbors. But, shared walls and common areas mean that you are more likely to hear your neighbors. If you need your home to be a hideaway where you can escape from people, you have to deal with the fact that you might encounter neighbors in the hallway. Nosy neighbors are found everywhere, but it's a lot easier for them to keep tabs on you as you come and go in a condo. The community will set standards and make decisions about common areas. For example, many condo association have rules about pets so that the common areas are not over-run with pets and pet debris.

The Association

You can take part in the decision making (by voting or by being a board member), but you must abide by the rules of the community. As you may know, condos are governed by a set of rules called Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). This can include restrictions on noise levels, pet ownership, renovations, and even what kind of curtains you can put in your windows. Every unit owner is a member of the condo association, which also has an elected board. The association serves to enforce bylaws, handles maintenance and repair issues, etc.Because the condo association is made up of homeowners rather than property-management professionals, the association may be weak and inefficient. Most associations oversee a paid management firm. Also, if you want to make renovations to your unit or rent your unit out, you may have to get approval from the condo association.This purpose of this oversight is most usually designed to make sure that you don't remove any load bearing walls or short circuit community electricity.

Maintenance

Homeowners have a lot to worry about, but condo owners on the other hand ...
condo Realtor
Think of Nesbitt Realty for condos and condominiums in Northern VA
Condo owners generally don't mow lawns. They don't clean gutters. They don't even have to hire or pay landscapers. In a condominium someone else takes care of the exterior, the common areas, the snow removal and more. For example, someone else makes sure there's money enough to pay for the new roof. Of course, that service comes at a price: the monthly condo fees. The association collects these fees to pay for maintenance and repair of the common areas. All homeowners pay for maintenance, but the owner of a single family residence can save money by mowing his own lawn. The owner of a single family home can defer payment a little longer if money is tight. Of course, by aggregating the fees of maintenance, condominium owners often have enough money to pay for amenities that are not common in a single family residence. For example, a swimming pool is pretty standard in a condo.

Affordability

Some condos in Northern Virginia list are every bit as expensive as single family houses elsewhere. Condos in Crystal City, condos in Arlington and condos in Alexandria (especially in the Carlyle District) can be quite pricey. But some condos are surprisingly affordable. This makes a great option for first-time buyers and singles who may find single-family houses unaffordable. Condominiums are more sensitive to trends in the real estate market than single-family homes. Now that the prices have dropped there are some tremendous bargains for shoppers.

Amenities.  

Most condominium developments offer a range of amenities in the common areas. It's pretty standard in Northern Virginia to have access to a swimming pool, gym or tennis courts in most condo complexes.
Condominiums are found in all shapes, sizes, prices and types. Are you looking for a high-rise condo, a mid-rise or a garden-style condo? Maybe you'd prefer a townhouse?

The term "garden-style" condo usually refers to a condominium residence in a building that has less than three stories. Most garden-style condos have balconies or patios for each residence. Many garden-style condos have a main entrance that opens to a common-area hallway. Additional common areas include the green space and "gardens" surrounding the structures. If you're interested in garden-style condos you'll have a lot of options in Northern Virginia.

From the suburban feel of Kingstowne to the central location of Bolling Brook from the vintage charm of Belle View to the chic feel of Carlyle Square, are just some of the many Northern Virginia condominium communities we feature.


[read more]

[idx-listings linkid="347906" count="3"]

Mid-rise condos are taller than garden-style condos, but smaller than high-rise condos. Mid-rise condos in Northern Virginia are 5 to 8 stories tall and are generally found close to or inside the Beltway.


[read more about mid-rise condos]

[idx-listings linkid="347905" count="3"]

High-rise condos have more than 9 floors. They are generally found inside the Beltway and are often located near Metro stations, public transportation, or major commuter traffic arteries like I-395.


[read more about high-rise condos]

[idx-listings linkid="347904" count="3"]
For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.

Ronald Reagan National Airport in Crystal City / Arlington

National Airport
Main concourse of Reagan National Airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, formerly Washington National Airport, is on the Potomac River across from Washington DC. Along with Baltimore Washington International and Dulles International, Reagan National is one of three major airports serving the Washington Metro area. Reagan National is easily my favorite of the three airports for a number of reasons. Dulles and BWI are massive sprawling airports with shuttle buses and mobile lounges. Reagan National barely has enough room for the runway. I always like smaller airports. They feel like they are scaled to human beings. There is plenty of security at National, but it seems to move along more smoothly than Dulles or BWI. Dulles and BWI are outside the Beltway at the periphery of the Washington Capitol Area.  Reagan National is at the heart of everything, wedged at the confluence of DC, Alexandria and Arlington.  For me, it's a long drive just to get to BWI or Dulles, but Reagan National is here, and it's accessible by Metro. Reagan National is a station on both the Yellow and Blue lines. Extended parking is available at Dulles or BWI, but on the shuttle bus, the ride from the parking lot to the terminal seems like a mile or more.  At Reagan National, extended parking is at my house.  Because instead of taking a shuttle, I can take the Metro to the airport. The runway is short at Reagan National, and it launches planes up over GW Parkway and at the Washington Monument, requiring a steep climb and a hard left on take off. Some folks find this terrifying, but I have to admit I love it.  I know it's a safe path, because planes take off here day and night, so I sit back and enjoy the abrupt take-off and turn. Reagan National is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week, although many ticket counters and restaurants in the airport close during off-hours. Reagan National is located within the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it has a Washington DC address to identify the airport's location more easily for travelers. The Perimeter Rule and the High Density Rule affect flights at Reagan National. Under the Perimeter Rule, nonstop aircraft flights are limited to a range of 1,250 miles or less. In 2000, Congress permitted the FAA toNational Airport allow six round-trip flights to points outside the perimeter. The High Density Rule (or "Slot" rule) limits the number of landings or takeoffs allowed in an hour. The rule affects Reagan National because of the Airport's limited airfield capacity. Reagan National is located in Arlington County near/in Crystal City. It is most easily accessed from the George Washington Parkway. There are a good many condos and homes in the Crystal City area and they're all just a metro stop away from Reagan National.  The take-off and approach to Reagan National is down the Potomac, so that area residents get very little noise or fly-over from the jets at Reagan National. For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.

Help me find a condo for rent!

Here's an email that I recently received and my response. I've changed the names (for privacy's sake), but am posting for the benefit of those who might be seeking a rental agent.
Hello Will,
We are actually interested in working with an agent, as opposed to trying to do the leg work ourselves. My husband is currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. We are awaiting orders that originally had us relocating this summer. Now it looks more like late October/November, following the new fiscal year.
As mentioned, we will be stateside and staying in DC on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 22/23rd and would like to commit to meeting with an agent who handles rentals. Realizing that one may not know what units will become available in November, it would still provide a head start in preparing for our relocation. We are not familiar with the neighborhoods other than online research and bits of information provided by friends. My husband does wish to be (at least) within walking distance of the metro. We are interested in checking out Old Town Alexandria and other suggested areas.
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Sally
Dear Sally, I'm happy to provide consultations and advice at no charge. As a rental agent I am the most helpful to renters who know what they want but don't want to spend time and energy chasing dead-ends or stuck in traffic. If you know where you will be working, how many bedrooms you need, what amenities you enjoy, my expertise allows me to very quickly identify a short list of properties that will be of interest to you. I am constantly touring homes, properties and neighborhoods. I know the area's traffic patterns. I know Northern Virginia. You're probably not asking me to do this---but in case you are---I must make clear that I am not available to spend time and resources trying to give you my expertise. It would be impossible for me to do this in a weekend anyway.  Lastly, from a business standpoint, it is not an effective use of my skills or your time to expend resources and time driving around to neighborhoods and going to condo communities in June on the hope that you will will rent something in November. Again, I'm available to chat and offer free advice and provide direction if you would like to follow up with your own footwork. Thanks much for the opportunity. It is appreciated. Sincerely, Will Nesbitt Condo Alexandria \ Nesbitt Realty Alexandria VA 703 765 0300 ext. 224 888 783 6391 (fax)

Properties in

For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.