RARE TOWNHOUSE RETNAL IN ARLINGTON VA

Most rentals in the Rosslyn through Ballston Corridor in Arlington, Virginia consist of highrise condominiums. There are very few spacious garden style units or townhomes near a metro, so when one comes available (especially for a great price) they are snatched up quite quickly. I assume nothing less for a new rental that jut came on the market as of yesterday. It is a 3BR/3.5BA townhome in Courthouse Hill. It is located in Courthouse, about 3 blocks from the metro stop, and right around the corner from the movie theater, shops, and restaurants. Hardwood floors throughout, gourmet kitchen, deck, 2 car garage, and much more! Don't let this one slip away! The listing price is $3300/month.

Contact Alexandra@condo1.com for more information on this property or to schedule a showing.

Station Square Condominium Rental With Monument Views

Unless you are in Rosslyn, it is very hard to find an affordable rental with great views of DC's monuments. Even within Rosslyn, only specific buildings have views. With Condo 1, Inc's new rental property in Station Square Condominium, you get the best of both worlds being located in the heart of Clarendon, only two blocks to the Clarendon Metro, and having spectacular monument views from your private patio and living room. This 2 bedroom/2bathroom corner unit is located on the 8th floor of Station Square Condominium. The rental has two masters, meaning both bedrooms have a full bathroom attached to the room. Other features include: 2 assigned parking spaces, patio off living room, gas fireplace, stacked washer/dryer, hardwood floors throughout, custom kitchen cabinets, upgraded stainless steel appliances, master separate tub and shower, and detailed designer accents throughout. There are rarely rentals in Station Square, so when they do become available they go quickly!

For more information about the rental or to schedule an appointment, contact Alexandra at Alexandra@condo1.com.

Terrace Lofts in Rosslyn, Arlington

So you don't want a house, and you don't want a condo in a 20 story building that all look the same...what about Terrace Lofts? Located in Rosslyn on Colonial Terrance North, a quiet tucked away street, Terrace Lofts are a mix between a single family home and a high rise condo. These lofts have tall ceilings, open floorplans, large square foot layouts, patios, and the development is of a much smaller scale than high-rise buildings. Because there are so few units in this development, there are very few on the market at the same time, if at all!

But, two recently came on the market in the past two days...

#409 2BR/2BA/1half BA $537,900
#104 1BR/1BA/1half BA $405,000

Contact Alexandra@condo1.com for more information on these two properties or to schedule a viewing.

How old is your condominium building in Arlington, Virginia?

As potential buyers and renters are able to do more "homework," gaining access to more information on the Internet about specific condominium buildings, they should beware "false" information. One big factor for renters and buyers in a building is the age of the building. Many websites and MLS listings show the age of the development, taken directly off of tax records, and development records.

A new craze in the past few years is to convert apartment buildings to condominium buildings. This means that the buildings were originally built strictly for renting and then converted to a building strictly for buying. Apartment buildings and condominium buildings have different regulations on building construction, appliances, electric and plumbing. This conversion is mainly to meet the requirements of condominium building status.

One thing many don't know, is that once a building is converted to a condominium building, the building is considered a "new building." The age presented on MLS and websites will show the NEW age (the age when it was converted.) So, many of these converted buildings claim to be a newer building, but were really built many years before that. So, if the age of a building is important to you, make sure you get the REAL age. For example, two buildings in the Arlington area that are conversions are Eastview at Ballston, and Westview at Ballston.

Don't get me wrong, these buildings are terrific. They have converted the properties beautifully, with upgraded amenities, and upgraded modern decor. My main point is just be careful when reading the age of a building, because sometimes this age can be deceiving...

Best Georgetown views in Condominiums in Arlington, VA

When most people are looking for condominiums with views in Arlington Virginia, they assume the only nice view they can get is of the monuments. Oh how wrong they are! Although these monument views are stunning (but very difficult to come by), most people forget what is to the left of them, Georgetown. With it's low landscape, colorful houses, unique small shopping, these views are becoming just as desirable.

The two best buildings for a terrific Georgetown view is The Atrium Condominium and The Residences at Waterview. The Atrium Condominium building is located at 1530 Key Blvd, 2 blocks to the Rosslyn metro. Luckily, there is a community of townhomes directly in front of the building, buffering route 66. These townhouses are only 4 stories tall, so they do not obstruct any view, and give protection to the owners at the Atrium preventing any high-rises to be built in front, blocking their view. The Atrium was designed very well as a long building with an entire side facing Georgetown. This allowed the most amount of units to have this stunning view.

In addition to The Atrium, Residences at Waterview have the best view of Georgetown. Located a block from the Key Bridge at 1111 19th St. N, these condos sit right atop of the river, giving great close up views to the water, and Georgetown. In addition to the Georgetown views, this building is in the prime location, at the peak of Northern Arlington, which provides views of the monuments as well.

The Residences at Waterview in Rosslyn

A recent article from the Washington Post showcased a lawyer who lives in DC overlooking the monuments. He said that he would rather have a smaller/more updated condo with an amazing view. Many people are taking this route when buying a condo. They consider their amazing view as part of their living space.

A prime example of this change in living is the Residences in Waterview Condominium located in Rosslyn, at 1111 19th St. N. Located on the point of Northern Arlington, this building has spectacular unobstructed views of Georgetown and the DC monuments. Compared to surrounding buildings, each unit is state of the art with the finest hardwood floors, highest quality appliances, and floor to ceiling windows to showcase the view. If you are like many, and considering downsizing for the amazing view, this is the place to check out. The price is at a premium, but you are guaranteed the best views in Arlington that will never go away.

Arlington, Virginia. The best of both worlds...

So this weekend in boycott of Valentines Day, a few girlfriends and I decided to take "girls weekend" to New York City. Being from North Carolina, I had never been to the "big city." As we got there, we were bombarded by taxis, people running into you on the streets, buildings so tall you can't see the next block 100 ft away from you...everything I could have imagined. Don't get me wrong, we had an amazing time going to shows, seeing old friends, and experiencing the amazing restaurants and night life, but how quickly it was that I missed Arlington, and the the smaller scale of a big city.

Some of the main things I missed:

1. Driving. I would never have even attempted to bring a car up there. Luckily in Arlington VA, there is a considerable amount of parking (although we always complain there isn't!)
2. Full stocked grocery stores. A few minute drive and you can be at Harris Teeter in Ballston with a full range of produce, and everything else you could never need. Every grocery store in NYC was tiny, with limited selection.
3. Nicer people. Arlington still holds somewhat of a "southern charm," with people saying please and thank you, instead of yelling at you to walk faster.
4. Terrific outdoor shops and restaurants. Arlington still has amazing restaurants everywhere you turn, and outdoor shopping that serves both purposes of shopping, and outdoors time.
5. The metro (which is a lot less confusing.) In Arlington we have only the Orange Metro line. Everything in Arlington that you would want to go to is in one location. Compared to NYC where the city spans miles and miles, you are only a few metro stops from anywhere you want to go, especially downtown DC.

In short, I loved visiting NYC for the weekend. But, I was quite excited to head back home to Arlington after my long trip. I realize we still get the lifestyle of the big city, without the hassle!

Snow Fall...

As we are all emerging from our snow hibernation and are feeling guilty for not changing out of sweat pants for 4 days straight, eating tubs of cookie dough, and not going to the gym, take a look at this article. With everything we have endured this winter in terms of snow, we deserved these few snow days. Also, remember, this article was posted on 2/8/10. This was before our last big hit this week. With the amount of snowfall Monday-Tuesday brought us, I am pretty sure we can take claim to the #1 title.

http://dcist.com/2010/02/dc_area_now_claims_second_highest_s.php

How the Home Buying Process is Changing...

This is kind of tacking on to a previous blog I wrote about the new IPhone App allowing potential renters and buyers look at MLS listings from their phone...

Technology is really impacting the real estate market, making it a less stressful and time consuming process for buyers. Back in the "old days" a mere few years ago, buyers and agents would spend countless hours driving around to different properties without knowing anything about the inside. Times quickly changed allowing agents produce print outs of properties, giving dimensions, and some additional information on the property, to aid while looking. Now, that email has become common (and almost standard) agents are able to upload up to 30 pictures of a property into the MLS system, and email listings to potential buyers so they can see pictures of the inside, and know more details.

We are seeing this technological phenomenon become more common with higher end properties (just because the technology aspect is incurring an additional price). Agents are spending the extra "buck" to create virtual tours of their properties and posting them online. This allows potential buyers to really get a feel for the layout, dimensions, and condition of a property without even leaving the comfort of their own home. I can't tell you how many times I've had clients go into a house, stand there for 5 seconds and say "nope" just because there were no pictures or floorplans to show the buyer before looking at the property. Buyers will be able to do extensive research before looking at properties, and minimize wasted time looking at properties.

Also, additional tools like google maps have really helped potential buyers, especially those relocated to an unfamiliar area. These features allow them to see exactly where they are located within a city or neighborhood, and even have actual footage of the street, lot, and neighborhood.

Check out this article which goes into more detail about these high tech virtual tours...Who knows what will be the next phase of real estate technology! Since properties are at a premium in Arlington, VA, I can only assume these "premium" features will become common in the sales of high rise condos in the area.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/04/AR2010020405008.html

The Atrium Condominium

The well known Atrium Condominium located on 1530 Key Blvd. in Rosslyn is a building in high demand although it is over 20 years old. Here are a few reasons why people specifically request the building when renting and buying:

1. Location. The building is located 2 blocks to the Rosslyn metro which has access to the Blue and Orange line. Having both of these options to get into DC are ideal for the morning commute, or venturing into the city go out out.

2. The building itself. Although somewhat older, this building was built more soundly than half of the newer buildings in Arlington. Many new buildings have noise problems, structural problems, but not the Atrium.

3. Super market accessibility. A safeway super market is right across the street, an easy stroll to go shopping for the week or when you need that one ingredient you forgot to get. The next closest super market is all the way in Ballston, so having one in your backyard is quite convenient.

4. The amenities. The building has an amazing outdoor pool, grilling area, party room, fitness center, in house dry cleaners, and 2 concierges at the front desk at all times.

5. Georgetown. The Atrium Condominium is a mere 3 blocks to the Key Bridge. The perfect location to walk over to Georgetown!

6. The view. If you are on the front of the building on the 4 floor or above, you have spectacular views of Georgetown. Although you might pay a premium to have these views...the price is definitely worth it.

Condo 1 currently has two new one bedroom condos available for $1750 and $1800, both amazing prices for this building. Contact Alexandra@condo1.com for more information or to schedule a showing.

Why you want to live in a condominium the Rosslyn through Ballston Corridor when the snow hits...

As the next "blizzard of the century" is supposed to hit the Arlington/DC area, now is a good time to think of what you want around your rental. When looking for a rental condominium in Northern Arlington, most people want to be convenient to the metro, shops, restaurants etc. These conveniences are the reason they pay a premium. So, as people are rushing to the super markets, freaking out about not being able to move, here are some convenient staples in the area that might make a difference when you are looking for a rental....

The entire Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor: Since all the metro lines are underground at this point in Virginia, your metro will still be running. If you want to venture out in the snow, you have the option of taking the metro along the Orange line, and into the city. Once you go to East Falls Church, and places in Alexandria or on the blue line where parts of the metro are above ground, when it is snowing...the metro's won't be running, and you won't be going anywhere.

Rosslyn, Arlington: Safeway grocery store located 1 block to the Rosslyn metro. A quick walk to the grocery store is always convenient. The main condominium buildings in Rosslyn are the Atrium Condominium, The Residences at Waterview, and the Belvedere Condominium.

Courthouse: CVS, movie theater, coffee shops, Fitness First Gym, small dining. Sometimes in the snow you just need to get out to keep from going crazy. The buildings in this area that have this convenience is the Odyssey Condominium, Colonial Village, Courthouse Hill Condominium, The Williamsburg Condominium, and The Charleston Condominium just to name a few.

Clarendon: CVS, restaurants, Golds Gym. The buildings in this area are Clarendon 1021, Station Square Condominium, Phoenix Condominium.

Ballston: Harris Teeter, Ballston Commons Mall. Having a fully stocked grocery store and a mall are quite convenient when you need to stock up on groceries, or when you just want to stretch your legs walking around the mall. Lexington Square Condominium, Ballston 880 Condominium, The Hawthorn Condominium, Continental at Ballston Condominium, Alta Vista Condominium get these perks.

Be safe in the snow!

Don't overlook older buildings when looking for condominium rentals...

Most people want the new, fresh, updated rentals (I mean, who wouldn't?) Because of this, they assume only the brand new buildings have these types of condominium units. But, don't overlook the older buildings just because of their age. As times, styles, and preferences change, many owners will update their properties to fit the new needs. Because each of the units are individually owned, the owners have more of an incentive to upgrade and renovate their units using the best materials, best design, and also bring their unique preference and personality when picking upgrades. Since it's their investment, owners are more likely to put in high quality appliances when upgrading to insure high quality in their investment, knowing a few years down the road the appliances will still be working, where as some apartment buildings will do the quick fix and put in cheap replacements. Also, in terms of carpet, fixtures, etc. owners are much more likely to put in high quality replacements since in the long run it will benefit their investment.

So, when looking, don't pass over older buildings like the Atrium and the Belvedere just because of their age. These units are worth a lot, so owners have a large incentive to update with the best granite, kitchen appliances, flooring, and upgrades.

Fannie Mae is Attempting to Speed up the Foreclosure Process

After the big hit on the real estate market (not so much in Northern Arlington as in the rest of the country), many home owners are going into foreclosure. With hard economic times, the number of foreclosures have increased dramatically. Foreclosures involve a much more extensive purchasing process, and with the increase of foreclosures, this process is taking even longer. Take a look at this article from the Washington Post to see how Fannie Mae is trying to relieve some of the problems owners are facing, and how they are helping speed up the process...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/28/AR2010012804752.html

Condo Fees vs. Co-Op fees

When looking to buy in both Virginia and DC, make sure to take a closer look in the condominium fees or co-op fees. Most buildings in Virginia are condominium buildings vs owned by a co-op, so most fees will be condo fees, so buyers will rarely notice a difference when looking building to building. But, in DC, many buildings are owned by a co-op which includes a co-op fee instead of a condo fee. When comparing these two fees, keep in mind that co-op fees usually include real estate taxes. These real estate taxes are usually tax deductible, so much of the co-op fee is deductible. When buying in a condominium, owners pay their real estate taxes separately, which is then potentially tax deductible.

So, my main point is...when you're looking in both DC and VA, don't get scared if you see dramatically different fees. Just remember what they all include!