7 thoughts to consider when downsizing

Falls Church realtors
Byron condominium is located in Falls Church VA
If you're approaching retirement, or just had it with the big-house lifestyle, it might be time to down-size. Here are some thoughts to consider when downsizing:
  1. Consider a short-distance move for familiarity. Plus, a shorter move can be cheaper.
  2. If you're moving out to a new county or state, check the property taxes.  This is especially important if you're on a fixed income.
  3. Look for handicap features that you might not need now but which may you if your health or physical abilities decline.
  4. Think about sharing space with a younger (or older) family member.
  5. Insist on good security in the new property.
  6. Look for a home that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.
  7. Ask about energy efficiency.  Utility bills will go up but a fixed income does not.
For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.

Fort Scott Park Is a historic site

Fort Scott Park
Fort Scott Park is located south west of Crystal City not far from Pentagon City and Aurora Hills in Arlington VA. Fort Scott Park is one of several parks in Northern Virginia that were part of the defenses of Washington during the civil war.  The sign at the site reads:

Historical Site Defenses of Washington 1861 - 1865 Fort Scott Here stood a detached lunette constructed in May 1861 to guard the south flank of the defenses of Washington and named for General Winfield Scott, then General-in-chief of the army. It was subsequently relegated to an interior position by the construction of defenses of Alexandria about 1 3/4 miles to the West. The fort had a perimeter of 313 yards and emplacements for 8 guns. A remnant portion may be found immediately to the West.

Today, Fort Scott Park is more than 11 and a half acres of family-friendly fun that welcomes toddlers and children. Fort Scott Park features appealing playground equipment like a sandbox, a playhouse, and both baby and regular swings. The park has nice shade and picnic pavilions. The adjacent basketball court is a great place to let dad make some free throws.  The park also has tennis courts and softball fields.
Fort Scott Park playground equipment
Having fun at Fort Scott Park

Address

Fort Scott Park 2800 South Fort Scott Drive, Arlington, VA 22202

Homes for sale in 22202 zip code

Arlington real estate agents.
Nesbitt Realty can help you buy and sell real estate in Arlington.

About the Dog Parks in Arlington

Dog parks have become quite popular. People are looking for ways to spend outside time with their dog without infringing upon other people's space. Owner/handler and dogs can make great lasting friendships in a secure dog park.
dog
Fred
Arlington County has 8 dog parks for you and your pet to enjoy. These parks are referred to as CCA's, Community Canine Areas. The Arlington area is very pet-friendly, so you and your dog can spend time outdoors in a safe environment. Of course with such great benefits come rules and regulations. Please be sure to read all the expectations that the park has outlined for you before you enter the parks. The parks are open from sunrise to half an hour past sunset. If you would like more information on the dog parks, please contact the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources at 703-931-9241. Below is a partial list of rules that you must abide by:
  1. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated
  2. No dog less than 4 months old allowed in the parks
  3. Female dogs in heat are not allowed
  4. No food
  5. Owner/handlers are allowed 3 dogs at one time.
 
  • 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.

What types of homes are people buying?

7207 HALIFAX PL, Springfield VA, 22150
typical brick home in Springfield
The National Association of Realtors recently did a study to learn more about the types of homes that people are purchasing. By collecting data from home sales across the country they are able to give us a window into types of homes that people are buying. Some of their findings were very intriguing. What's the most typical home purchase in America? If you're not from Northern VA, you might not be surprised to learn that seventy-nine percent of home buyers purchased a detached single-family home. I would expect that in Northern Virginia we have more townhouse and condominium buyers than the national average. The typical home purchased was 1,870 square feet in size, was built in 1993, and had three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The average home purchase was a home that was 20 years old! Home buyers who bought previously owned homes purchased their home for a better price and overall value and the charm and character their home provides. Only a fraction of home buyers purchased brand new home. New home purchases represented only 16 percent of all recent home purchases. Why did folks buy new homes?
The Jamieson
Great views from this condo at the Jamieson are not found in a typical home.
New home purchasers bought a new home to avoid renovations or problems with plumbing or electrical, and the ability to customize their home. Do you fit the mold of an "typical home buyer"? For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.

A gallery on the Fountains — condos in the West End of Alexandria VA

The Fountains Condominium is conveniently located in the West End of Alexandria just a few blocks from I-395. Residents at the The Fountains can walk to nearby shops and restaurants and public transportation is available at the front door. Every condominium at the Fountains has plenty of light and windows. Many condos at the Fountains have balconies with views toward the city or the Blue Ridge.

Who is today’s homebuyer and why are they buying?

National Association of RealtorsThe National Association of Realtors recently did a study about the characteristics of home buyers. Some of the findings might surprise you. Thirteen percent of buyers purchased a home with one or more parents and grandparents together with adult children. There were several reasons given for purchasing a multi-generational home.
  1. Cost savings;
  2. Children over the age of 18 moving back into the house; and
  3. Health and caretaking of aging parents.
On the other hand, it's no great surprise that sixty-five percent of recent home buyers were married couples. The typical first-time buyer was 31-years-old, while the typical repeat buyer was 53. Thirty-three percent of recent home buyers were first-time buyers, which is still suppressed from the historical norm of 40 percent among primary residence buyers. The people who are buying homes are earning nice salaries. The 2013 median household income of buyers was $84,500. The median income was $68,300 among first-time buyers and $95,000 among repeat buyers. Why are people buying homes? For about a quarter of recent home buyers, the primary reason for the home purchase was a desire to own a home. Less than ten percent purchased due to a job-related relocation or move. Only eight percent bought for the desire to be in a better area or because of a change in family situation. Nesbitt-Realty-wide-124
Christmas lights at Mormon Tabernacle
Christmas in the National Capital Area

Why Carlyn Place is convenient

Condos at Carlyn Place in Arlington VA is conveniently located near Lee Heights shops and restaurants. Built in 1961, condos at Carlyn Place are reasonably priced between $250,000 and $270,000. Nearby, you will find Stratford Program, HB Woodlawn Secondary Program and St Agnes School. Compare to: carlyn place

Home for sale in Arlington: $10 down and $5 per month.

Arlington
Arlington Real Estate Ad 1922
Take a look at this unbeatable deal in Arlington VA! Best of all, the seller is offering a 10% discount for cash.  These are bungalow homes 3 and one half miles from Washington DC.  The lots are selling for as little as $250! No, this deal isn't too good to be true . . . it's too old to be true.  Take a look at the offer above from 1922 and compare and contrast that with these homes just listed for sale in Arlington VA:

Properties in

Arlington real estate agents
Nesbitt Realty can help you buy and sell real estate in Arlington.