8 Reasons Why Buying a Home or Condo is Good for You

The mareket is heating up and now is a great time to buy. And, what's more, tomorrow will be a great time to own, because the fundamental strength of homeownership hasn't changed.
Julie
Julie can help you with all your real estate needs.
Here are 10 reasons:
  1. You can get a good deal. Prices are as low as they are going to get for a while. And prices are at a level that makes sense for people's income.
  2. Mortgages are cheap. At 3.75% on average for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, your costs to own are down.
  3. You can save on taxes. When you add up the deductions for mortgage interest and others, the cost of owning can drop below renting for a comparable place.
  4. Your money is not wasted on rent. The one benefit to owning that never changes is that you can paint your walls orange if you want (generally speaking; there might be some community restrictions). How many landlords will let you do that?
  5. You can get a better home. In some markets, it's simply the case that the nicest places are for-sale homes and condos.
  6. Home buying offers some inflation protection. Historically, appreciation over time outpaces inflation.
  7. It's risk capital. If the economy picks up, you stand to benefit from that, even if you're goal is just to have a nice place to live.
  8. It's forced savings. A part of your payment each month goes to equity.
There are five basic ground rules when it comes to buying property in {Location_Name} and shopping smart, and they are: #1 – Get your financing before examining all possibilities for a home in {Location_Name} There are few things in life as disappointing as losing out on the home of your dreams due to not being able to secure funding. While the desire to get out there and search for that great home is understandable, it is vital to line up the financing you will need before you start shopping for a home. Getting the financing ahead of time has a number of important advantages, including knowing how much you can buy and gain more respect from the listing agents. By knowing how much home you can afford before you shop you will avoid wasting your time looking at unaffordable properties, and the listing agent will be more than willing to show you the homes in your price range. It is also important to take a good look at the various types of mortgage on the market before getting started in the home buying process. These days, mortgages come in far more choices than the typical 15 or 30 year. For that reason, potential home buyers need to understand how each type of mortgage works, and to gauge which mortgage is the best choice for their needs. #2 – Look at the community in {Location_Name}, not just the home It is a good idea to look at the entire community, instead of focusing on a single home. This can be a particularly important thing to consider for those moving to a new metropolitan area, as these buyers will be unfamiliar with the local climate and lifestyle. It is crucial to determine the areas of town that are most desirable, and to consider things like distance from work and local shopping opportunities. We have all heard that location is the key consideration when it comes to real estate, and that is certainly the case. Buying a house in the wrong area can be a big mistake, and it is important to choose the location as well as the home. Potential buyers can learn a great deal about the nature of the various neighborhoods simply by driving around town, as well as by talking to other residents. #3 – Be fair with your first offer Trying to lowball a seller on the first offer can backfire, as can paying too much. It is important to carefully evaluate the local market, and to compare the asking price of the home with what similar houses in the neighborhood have sold for. Comparing the sales of comparable homes, what are known as "comps" in the industry, is one of the best ways to determine what is fair, and to make sure that you neither overpay or underbid on the property. #4 – Always get a home inspection Always investigate the home for any possible defects before making an offer. Compared to the cost of the average home, the price of a quality home inspection is virtually negligible. Hence, get a good home inspection done before you buy. To find the best home inspector, it is a good idea to seek out word of mouth referrals as many of the best home inspectors rely on word of mouth advertising. #5 – Do not alienate the sellers of the home Many real estate deals have fallen apart due to the personal animosity of the buyer and the seller. It is important to avoid alienating the seller of the home during the process, and to avoid nitpicking every little detail during the sale. Keeping the goodwill of the seller will help the transaction go smoothly, and it will provide the best environment for seller and buyer alike. [learn more about the home buying process] For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.
Husband and wife discuss Real Estate at the office
Husband and wife discuss Real Estate at the office
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Tips for Condo Buyers

Condos real estate agents
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If you are looking or even just thinking about buying a condominium home, it's perfectly natural to feel a little nervous. Buying a condo and owning your own home is a large, life changing purchase. Indeed, any individual thinking about buying a condo needs to know what to expect and how to prepare for those expectations. Below is a short list of 5 essential tips that any potential condo buyer would do well to consider throughout the process of finding a new condominium home. Happy hunting! 1) Look at Everything in Person First, remember to look in person at any condo unit you are interested in. It is very important that you make sure to actually see the amenities, parking space, and condo facilities personally. This simple but critical task will avoid any confusion and disappointment later on and will ensure that you are satisfied with your condo purchase. If you absolutely cannot look at the condo in person than ask the seller if you can send a friend you trust to look at the unit instead. In addition, if you are located in a different city than where you are condo shopping, be sure to ask the condo seller or realtor to send you as many pictures as possible of the condo and the condo building before you make a decision. 2) Carefully review the Condo Association Fees First Make sure that you know what exactly is included in your condo purchase. What amenities are included in the condo fees to make the condo right for the price? Or, on the other hand, are you going to end up paying for benefits you don't need? In addition, ask if there is any insurance included. Different condo associations may charge the same amount per month, but one may include some incidental insurance while others may require hefty fees for amenities you may not really need or want. Finally, check the condo association meetings and/or any printed bulletins that result from them. Look for any past or developing issues that you need to take into account. 3) Never Ignore the Documents that Accompany the Condo Purchase Always review the condominium documents very carefully before you buy. In laymen's terms, don't ignore the fine print. Here, you should check the total price and property documents to make sure that they are reasonable for the area. Be especially cautious if the price is very low because this could mean you will need a special assessment of the unit, which could cost you a lot of money, later in the future. 4) Always Review Comparable Units for Sale in the Same Building While every condo building is unique and features different amenities, styles, policies, and location, it is important that you look into other condo units that are for sale or have sold in the same building. Here, do not simply rely on the recent sale price of another unit in the building. Consider what another units' floor plan was, what views it had, or if it had any special upgrades. Depending on the view and floor of the unit, the price of a one bedroom can vary within a condo building. 5) Work with a Specialist The condominium marketplace is often a very specialized type of real estate and as such, you should always consider working with a qualified realtor, and particularly one who specializes in condos. With the help of a realtor, you will have access to a greater condominium market which will enable you to find the best condo unit to fit your needs at a price that you can live with. For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.
  • Prices And Pics Of Condos In 22206

    Will and Julie Nesbitt cross the street in Shirlington
    22206 is a great place to consider buying a home in Northern Virginia. Believe it or not you can find an affordable nice condo in Arlington.  For example this condo near Shirlington is at the Arlington 2 beds, 1 full baths Home size: 755 sq.ft. Added: 02/08/17, Last Updated: 02/08/2017 Property Type: Residential Garden 1-4…

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  • What’s so special about the condos at The Jamieson?

    Located in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, condos at The Jamieson are the only development to offer amenity services by the Westin Hotel. Residents have access to the following services: Valet parking Room service Maid service A la carte catering  

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  • Floorplans of Cardinal Forest Condos

    5935 MINUTEMEN RD, Unit 253, Springfield VA, 22152
    Situated on a rolling forest terrain in West Springfield, Cardinal Forest is a condominium development that was constructed in 1968 and converted into a condominium community in 1978. Below are the available floorplans at Cardinal Forest: Cardinal Forest highlights 130 acres of landscaping with trails and pools near Lake Accotink offering tranquil living near nature.…

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My Visit to the Army Navy Country Club

Yesterday, my brother and I attended an Objective Rally Point event with the Alexandria Veteran Business Enterprise Center at the Army Navy Country Club.
Arlington real estate
For real estate in Arlington VA contact Nesbitt Realty
We arrived 10 minutes early. Upon entrance there was a very timeless and grand staircase that separated the floors, while simultaneously showcasing the interior of the different levels. Next, after climbing the stairs, hanging up our coats, and being given our name tags from the receptionist, we entered the main banquet room. In the main banquet room we networked over coffee. After that, breakfast was served and I found a place in line, and filled up my plate with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, potatoes, and fresh fruit. Following finishing breakfast, speakers began their presentations. Some of the speakers that stood out in my memory include a former West Wing actress, who spoke about Veterans courts and Brigadier General Mark S. Martins, who spoke on a range of topics including military history and law. The event was hosted by Fluet Huber Hoang PLCC.

Facts about the Army Navy Country Club

  • Established in 1924
  • Is a private, member owned recreation facility
  • Members are primarily from Active Duty and Retired commissioned U.S. Military Officers and Warrant Officers
  • Members rank ranges from Second Lieutenant and Ensign to General and Admiral
  • Historical Review indicates that the current Arlington land became the site of a Civil War fort in 1861 named Fort Richardson
  • In 1914 the Knights of Columbus purchased a farmhouse on the site of the current Clubhouse, with the intention of construction with suitable modifications and establishing a social club
  • Members have included Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon and William J. Clinton
  • Has 6 Swimming Pools, 54 championship golfing holes, fitness center, golf and tennis pro shops

Properties in Arlington

Aubrey Nesbitt at National Airport.
Mom and dad were never happy to see Aubrey leave for duty but we were proud to see him serve.

What’s the quickest way by Metro?

The metro comes in frequent intervals, especially during the morning and evening, the times when people are going to or returning from work
The metro comes in frequent intervals, especially during the morning and evening, the times when people are going to or returning from work
Did you know that that the Washington Metro Transit Authority (WMATA) offers a free, web-based service called the Trip Planner?  Using Trip Planning  you can instantly learn accurate and timely information about metro buses and trains to schedule your next trip.  The Trip Planner will offer the best route(s) to take to get there and include fare information and walking directions from a Metrorail station or bus stop to a given address. If you're seeking a home on the Metro, you might find our search by station resource particularly helpful. Search for homes near the Metro

Are you looking for a home or condo near a metro station? Use our site to find properties close to Metro stations.


real estate for sale near metro stations.

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

What is a “National”?

A Single family house at 321 Raymond Ave E Alexandria VA 22301
Wilmar Park is in Alexandria 22301
Born out of the fundamental need for shelter, National-style homes, whose roots are set in Native American and pre-railroad dwellings, remain unadorned and utilitarian. The style is characterized by rectangular shapes with (insert link side gabled roofs) or square layouts with pyramidal roofs. The gabled-front-and-wing style pictured here is the most prevalent type with a side-gabled wing attached at a right angle to the gabled front. Two subsets of the National style, known as "hall-and-parlor family" and "I-house," are characterized by layouts that are two rooms wide and one room deep. Massed plan styles, recognized by a layout more than one room deep, often sport side gables and shed-roofed porches. You'll find National homes throughout the country.
A single family homes at 6732 Darwin Ct Falls Church VA 22042
Darwin Heights in Falls Church 22042
  • 1800 Old Meadow Rd #211, McLean Real Estate Dispatch

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  • 1800 Old Meadow Rd #405, McLean Real Estate Update

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  • Architectual Style Check List

    What shape is the house, overall? Rectangular and symmetrical: National, Colonial, Neoclassical, Greek Revival, Italianate Square and box-like: American Foursquare L-shaped: Folk and National styles Complicated and asymmetrical: Queen Anne and other Victorian styles, Chateauesque Rounded corners: Pueblo, Art Moderne Single story or 1½ story: Cape Cod, Ranch, Craftsman, Cottage styles Does the roof have…

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  • Choosing A 5-bedroom Bungalow-style Bungalow For Sale In Northern Virginia

    If you're comparing in Northern Virginia you may want to seriously consider a bungalow-style detached home.

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Gunston Hall Plantation

manor of George Mason IV
Gunston Hall
Gunston Hall Plantation is located in Fairfax County near Lorton and Mason Neck.  In it's heyday this Georgian-style home was at the center of a 5,500-acre tobacco and corn plantation. The owner of Gunston Hall was George Mason IV (1725-1792)---known historically as an author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights. Gunston Hall and it's gardens are a National Historic Landmark owned by the Commonwealth of Virginia and administered by a Board of Regents appointed from The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. Gunston Hall is open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Each visitor will receive a guided tour of the mansion; the 550 acres of grounds and hiking trails are open until 6:00 p.m. A variety of special events are presented throughout the year.
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Nesbitt Realty can help you buy and sell real estate in Lorton.

6 Home Office Tips

Office Nesbitt Realty
Inside the Consultation Room at Nesbitt Realty
Here are some pointers for ensuring an efficient, productive home office:
  1. Have a door or partition to set physical boundaries and establish rules with family.
  2. Dress for work even when at home.
  3. Have a dedicated work line.
  4. Include locked cabinetry if work involves confidentiality.
  5. Establish a professional routine without too many breaks. But establish some breaks with time frames.
  6. Plan the space to expand, perhaps with extra storage.
Maintain a healthy work and family balance by leaving work at a set time unless a project must get done.  

Why is Thomas Jefferson High School Ranked First in Northern VA?

Thomas Jefferson High School (TJHS) thrives on competition. For example, TJHS only accepts 1 in 5

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

applicants, with most of their students coming from Fairfax County residents. Additionally, TJHS is known for its strenuous academics. TJHS has been the foundation for numerous National Merit semifinalists, and almost 100 percent of their advanced placement test takers are awarded with hard earned college credit.

Facts about TJHS

  • First graduating class was in 1985
  • TJHST annual student produced research journal has won numerous national awards
  • Has specialized technology laboratories
  • Has mentorship program for individual student research
  • Has accelerated academic options, including summer school options
  • One of their eleven core beliefs is that learning never ends
  • Current Principal is Evan Glazer

References

"FCPS - School Profiles - Thomas Jefferson HS." FCPS - School Profiles - Thomas Jefferson HS. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014. <http://commweb.fcps.edu/schoolprofile/profile.cfm?profile_id=300>. Maxwell, Jan, and Forest Spencer. "Top High Schools." Northern Virginia Magazine RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2014. <http://www.northernvirginiamag.com/top-high-schools/>.

Properties in 22312

 
A statue at Thomas Jefferson High School
A statue at Thomas Jefferson High School

Aurora Hills Branch Library is in Crystal City

House at 2500 Eads St Arlington VA 22202
House at Aurora Hills is in Arlington 22202
Crystal City is served by the Aurora Hills Branch Library. Aurora Hills Library is in a spacious, contemporary building. The collection is broad and diverse but highlights contemporary, popular fiction and nonfiction titles. Periodicals and books-on-tape are also available for borrowing. Inquire at the library to learn more about the book discussion groups that meet here monthly, or to learn more about the pre-schooler program.

Market Common at Clarendon

Clarendon
Nesbitt Realty helps people like you buy and sell real estate in Clarendon VA
Located at 2800 Clarendon Blvd., the Market Common at Clarendon features an exceptional selection of stores including Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma, Barnes & Noble, and a variety of restaurants, all of which are located in an attractive and architecturally stimulating street-front setting intended for both walking and window shopping. The Market Common is located near Metro's Orange Line; three blocks from the Clarendon Station.
For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.