You’ve been prequalified … what now?

I met with a first-time buyer over the weekend. She was prequalified by her lender. Prequalifying helped frame her choices. It's a waste of time and energy to look at homes that are outside of the budget, so prequalification is the first step for any home buyer. Here are the steps that we'll be taking on the road to home ownership.3D Realty Handshake
  1. Tour properties --- We took a top level tour of some of the properties that are in her budget. This gives the client something concrete and real to think about so that she can decide whether this home ownership thing is for her or not. In addition to the units we saw, I can think of a number of places that would also fall within this client's budget and still offer a very reasonable commute to Ft. Belvoir. But I wanted to get her impressions of these places before going on a bit deeper.
  2. Revisiting --- We'll revisit those communities that hold the greatest interest and look at everything available in those communities.  (So far we just did a top level search.)
    • A few more choices --- If none of these really feel right, we'll find a few more to consider and continue with the search.
  3. Make an offer --- When we've found the property that stirs the soul, fits the budget and feels right, I'll write up an offer. At that time I'll collect "earnest money".
    • The earnest money is evidence that the seller is serious about the purchase and is held in escrow until the sale is completed. We'll submit a preapproval letter, a copy of the earnest money deposit and the signed offer for the seller to consider.
  4. Negotiations --- Sometimes there is a difference between the asking price and the selling price. The selling price is determined by negotiation. We'll pass drafts of the contract back and forth until the buyer and seller have agreed on all terms.
  5. Loan processing --- Julie at Condominium Mortgage will then collect documentation from the client. This documentation will serve the purpose of proving the representations made in the loan application process. The buyer will produce pay stubs, bank statements etc. Julie will also order an appraisal as required by all lenders.
  6. Settlement --- Settlement is the word used to describe the actual transfer of ownership. We'll settle on the property in a timely fashion on an agreed upon date. Settlement will occur at a title company's office and a settlement agent will ensure that funds are present as is marketable title.
  7. Ownership --- Here's where the fun begins ... as does the responsibility of home ownership.

Properties in Fort Hunt

8705 Highgate Rd

Come visit our open house Sunday 4/21 from 1-4pm! This expanded three level Colonial located on an absolutely gorgeous setting on exceptionally beautiful lot is one of Stratford Landing's most exciting properties! To capitalize on its grounds, the family room has been expanded into a dramatic 18ft x 14ft family/sunroom combination with high ceilings, custom Palladian windows, and glass doors leading to rear grounds. The light and bright atmosphere is carried through the open kitchen enhanced by bright white cabinetry and recently installed quartz countertops. Additional special features include: generous room sizes, gorgeous hardwood floors throughout main and upper level, main level laundry, and four upper level bedrooms including multi-room master with private bath and walk in closet/additional storage room. The basement provides a finished rec room and two additional storage rooms ideal for future expansion if desired. Other features include side load one car garage with additional driveway parking, stone paths meandering through the beautiful exceptionally private back yard as well as stone patio. This is a truly one of a kind property impossible to duplicate! [Stratford - $895,000]

2509 Stirrup Ln

Don't miss this beautifully renovated (2024) Kent model in the very desirable Stratford on the Potomac community. Set on a large, corner lot, 2509 Stirrup features five bedrooms, 3 beautifully remodeled full baths, refinished hardwood floors, large laundry room, walkout basement with excellent ceiling height and a wood-burning fireplace. There is also a spacious and charming screened-in porch off the dining room and kitchen with granite counters and gas cooking. The main living space has an open and airy feeling with very high ceilings. New lighting, recessed lights, designer paint throughout and professional landscaping. This corner yard is large and private. Walkable to Stratford Landing elementary school and top-notch playgrounds. Finished square footage in tax record is not accurate. [Stratford On the Potomac - $849,000]

8019 Seaton St

Welcome to your dream home in the coveted Thornrose neighborhood! This stunning ranch-style detached residence has been meticulously RENOVATED FROM TOP TO BOTTOM, offering contemporary elegance and unparalleled comfort. Step inside to discover a spacious layout boasting 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, providing ample space for both relaxation and entertaining. The heart of the home is the exquisitely designed kitchen, featuring a dazzling QUARTZ island and countertops that effortlessly blend style with functionality. Indulge in luxury within the gorgeous bathrooms, where every detail has been carefully curated to create a serene atmosphere! Throughout the home, gleaming hardwood floors lend warmth and sophistication, complementing the modern aesthetic. Beyond the impeccable interiors, this residence offers the convenience of single-level living, allowing for effortless transitions between rooms. Outside, a charming yard provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor gatherings or peaceful moments of serenity. Enjoy easy access to nearby Huntley Meadows Park for outdoor recreation, and find yourself just 15 minutes away from the historic Old Town Alexandria waterfront and National Washington harbors, including Jones Point Park. Additionally, the home is conveniently situated close to a variety of restaurants and INOVA Mount Vernon Hospital, ensuring that all your needs are met with ease. Don't miss your chance to make this exquisite property your own – schedule a showing today and prepare to fall in love with luxury living at its finest! NEW ROOF, NEW APPLIANCES, NEW FLOOR, NEW HVAC, NEW WATER HEATER [Thornrose - $815,000]

8905 Camfield Dr

March 2024. Elegant & chic renovation at this charming Fort Hunt neighborhood home. Oversized bay windows in the living room & eat in kitchen to soak in the natural light all day making it a bright home. Primary bedroom w/ en-suite also overlooks the breathtaking pool!! Lower level: Flooring, water proofed durable flooring to handle pool traffic coming in from the backyard. Spacious layout for in-law-suite or guest areas, office/library has built in wall units. Also perfect for a kid's rainy day play space, live-in au pair, man/woman cave with its own private entrance/exit to the backyard & pool. Sunroom(floor-water proofed durable flooring to handle pool traffic) addition leads to the brick patio & to the peaceful pool area. Fabulous for cooking & entertaining in the fully fenced in private lot. Yes, the pool (deep end is only 5 feet) is inviting for sure. The shed, beautifully custom designed by an Architect owner/seller & his pride & joy, County Code satisfied. Calling all dog lovers: Fort Hunt Park neighborhood back-trail/path is just a few houses away, George Washington Parkway/bike path/walking trail 3 blocks, Mount Vernon Estate & Fort Belvoir just down the road in this all Single Family home community with no HOA. [Potomac Valley - $899,000]

8305 Fort Hunt Rd

8305 Fort Hunt Drive is a beautiful well-maintained home in an excellent location. Walk through the double front door and you are immediately struck by the natural light and open floor plan. Step up to the family room with a charming fireplace and a large five panel ceiling to floor bay window that floods the room with light. The handsome hardwood floors lead you through the dining room to the attractive kitchen with white cabinetry, granite countertops and an oversized island. The kitchen is seamlessly connected to a window filled sunroom that overlooks the entire fenced in backyard. There is a comfortable family feeling that you get from the well designed floor plan. Down the hall the there are 3 sizable bedrooms. An en suite bath in the primary bedroom has white cabinetry, upgraded lighting and granite counters. The 2 additional bedrooms share a second full bath with granite counters and tile floors. And then there is the fully finished basement that has a playroom/den with full brick fireplace, full bath, nice sized bedroom, workshop, and a large storage with a walkout exit. In addition to the awesome layout the home is equipped with an automatic whole house generator, tankless hot water heater, wood burning stove that can heat the entire house, huge detached garage, long driveway for several cars. [Collingwood Estates - $899,000]

1501 Shenandoah Rd

Here’s your opportunity to own one of the most prominent, turnkey 3 level, custom modern farmhouse homes in Hollin Hall on a beautiful .24 acre corner lot. The current sellers have added $50,000 in thoughtful upgrades - including reinforced basement waterproofing and drain system, upgraded landscaping, custom Shade Store window treatments, custom bench cushions, Ring security cameras, ADT security system, garage floor epoxy finish, fully fenced yard, and stained decking and fence. In 2019, this home underwent a near complete tear down and rebuild to present this like new custom build. The unique corner lot floor plan showcases 4 sides of direct natural sunlight, keeping this home bright and airy all day long. The first floor features 9’ ceilings, wide plank hand scraped hardwood floors, an expansive chefs kitchen with island seating for 6. It opens up to a vaulted ceiling family room with gas fireplace and half bath. Home chefs will appreciate the stainless steel appliances - commercial grade 36” Bertazzoni Gas Range with 6 burners, Bertazzoni refrigerator and dishwasher, microwave drawer, mini wine fridge, along with 2 sizeable pantry closets. The separate formal dining room seats up to 10 comfortably (Host for the Holidays!). A main level bedroom with a full bathroom provides optionality for guests or home office space. The oversized mudroom off the garage includes washer & dryer, a laundry chute coming down from the owner's suite, built-in coat rack storage and outside deck access. The additional covered side deck has a gas line ready to connect your outdoor grill. Upstairs includes 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, 9’ ceilings, an expansive luxury owner's suite with vaulted ceiling, a custom built out walk-in closet and remote controlled window treatments. The attached bathroom includes a 7' x 4' shower, separate deep soaking tub, wide closet with shelving, and double sink vanity. Down the hall you have 4 bedrooms and 2 additional full bathrooms. The fully finished basement includes built in custom bench seating with custom made cushions and built in entertainment shelving. The basement utility closet can be used for a large storage space or converted into another full bathroom (framed out and plumbing access ready). The high ceiling garage comfortably fits 1 vehicle and leaves room for shelving and storage. The yard is fully fenced in with a wrap around deck for your outdoor enjoyment. This home was built for comfort by including 2 HVAC zones and tankless water heater with constant hot water. It comes complete with an ADT security system, Ring Camera system, and Verizon Fios fiber optic high speed internet. This residence is conveniently located in the wonderful community of Hollin Hall Village in the Fort Hunt Area. It is across the street from playgrounds, baseball fields and park for all to use. Walking distance to coffee shop & bakery, grocery store, pharmacy, restaurants, bank, clothing stores, hardware store, the famous Variety Store, and neighborhood pool Mount Vernon Park Association with 3 pools, 4+ acres of park area, private fishing pond, tennis courts, basketball courts, and volleyball. Just minutes from Old Town Alexandria, Belle Haven Country Club, Mount Vernon Estate, The picturesque Mount Vernon bike trail that runs from DC to Mount Vernon and easy commutes via the picturesque George Washington Parkway along the Potomac River to Downtown DC, The Pentagon, Fort Belvoir, Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, and Amazon HQ2. Located in the coveted Waynewood Elementary School district and available to move in immediately [Hollin Hall Village - $1,599,000]

1209 Chadwick Ave

Welcome to this charming home nestled on a tranquil 1/2 acre lot where blooming crepe myrtles and fig trees enhance the picturesque landscape. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath house offers a perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and natural beauty. Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the classic layout and exquisite details throughout. Gorgeous hardwood floors exude warmth, guiding you through the inviting spaces. To the left, French doors open to a formal living room adorned with beautiful moldings and a wood-burning fireplace, ideal for cozy gatherings. On the right, a more casual gathering space awaits, featuring a second wood-burning fireplace with an all-brick surround, perfect for relaxed evenings with loved ones. The heart of the home lies in the gourmet kitchen, boasting stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a breakfast bar that beckons you to gather and create memorable meals. Adjacent is a separate dining room, providing an elegant setting for formal dinners and special occasions. Glass sliding doors seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, leading to the stunning backyard patio, an idyllic place to gather with friends for a barbecue or simply enjoying peaceful evenings in the tranquil setting. Completing the main level is a home office, offering a quiet retreat for remote work, and a convenient half bath for guests. Upstairs, you'll discover four bedrooms with tranquil views from every window. The primary en-suite bedroom is a luxurious retreat, featuring a spacious bathroom and a walk-in closet, providing ample storage. A full bath services the other bedrooms and a pull-down attic offers additional storage space for your convenience. Outside, an attached two-car garage and a horseshoe driveway provide easy access and ample parking for you and your guests, ensuring convenience and comfort. Nestled adjacent to Collingwood Park, this home enjoys a prime location just one block from the GW bike path and GW Parkway. With this convenient positioning, residents have effortless access to Old Town, DC, Belvoir, the Pentagon, and Reagan National Airport. [Wellington - $1,079,000]

1904 Hackamore Ln

Welcome to Riverside Gardens! Mature trees line the neighborhood, basketball hoops are found on every street, Adirondack chairs can be spotted in most front yards, there are tree swings galore, and a constant flow of neighbors ready to say hello. This idyllic community is a quick walk to both Stratford Landing Elementary School and Carl Sandburg Middle School. The community pool, Riverside Gardens Swim and Tennis Club is the social hub for many of the residents, which has a conveniently short waitlist. With underground power lines and sidewalks throughout the entirety of the neighborhood, you won’t find a more beautiful community. 1904 Hackamore Lane sits on one of the neighborhood’s less traveled side streets and bubbles with curb appeal. This move-in ready home features over 1,700 square feet of stylized pure charm. You enter the home into the living room where you quickly notice a cozy fireplace and an abundance of natural light saturating the room across the hardwood floors. The living room flows into the dining room – are those French doors? Yes, and they lead to a beautiful sunny deck. The kitchen is located off the dining room, with a separate door onto the deck making for easy grilling. The kitchen wallpaper gives a pop of fun to the natural wood cabinetry. Stone countertops and stainless-steel appliances make this a chef rated kitchen with room for multiple sous chefs. Upstairs you will find 3 bedrooms and a large shared bathroom with dual entries from the hallway and the primary bedroom. The second bedroom has a secret reading nook located in the closet. Should an adult choose to climb up it can hold up to 500 pounds. Modern gold light fixtures throughout are the flare you didn’t know your ceilings needed. Again, pure charm around every corner. The lower level contains not only a large rec room but also a bonus den. Need a home office, extra bedroom, playroom, or fitness room? The space is here for you. You will find another full bath, laundry room and an additional fireplace on this level– yes there are 2 fireplaces in this home! Got too many holiday decorations? There are 2 separate attic spaces for storage; one accessible in the upper-level hallway and another in the upper-level stairwell. The easy to maintain backyard is adorned with beautiful trees, flowers, shrubs and bushes. Spring bloom is literally days away. Can you already hear the laughter coming from the kids on the playset (which conveys)? Keep a somewhat watchful eye while you enjoy relaxing on the deck or watching the Sunday game with the easy TV setup. This house checks all of the boxes and then some. Ready to call it home? This home goes active on 4/18 with an open house on Sunday 4/21 1-4pm. [Riverside Gardens - $815,000]

7901 Wellington Rd

Welcome to 7901 Wellington Road! This amazing home boasts 5 bedrooms (plus an additional den/6th bedroom with bath on the lower level), 4 full bathrooms, and 3,600 square feet on a 0.3 acre, picturesque corner lot. Step inside and be welcomed by craftsman appeal and classic charm. This home greets you with an open floor plan with newly finished hardwood floors (2024) throughout the main and upper levels. The living room features a gas fireplace, large picture window, and space to spread out. The open floor plan leads into a great room dining & kitchen combination with slate flooring and windows galore. The Chef's kitchen boasts upgraded black stainless Kitchen Aid and Bosch appliances, and an peninsula perfect for entertaining or family meals. The dining room offers bead board ceilings and windows surrounding the room, and a built-in window seat with custom cushions. On the other side of the main level, there are two spacious bedrooms and a full guest bathroom with river rock shower. Moving upstairs, you will find three large bedrooms and laundry room with butcher block folding table. The primary suite is your perfect oasis. His and Her walk-in closets lead into the calming primary bathroom with a soaking tub, double vanities, and a glass door shower. The other two bedrooms are spacious, have new carpeting (2024), and oversized closets. The lower level is an entertaining haven with a spacious family room (the game table conveys), two large storage rooms with built in shelving, an additional room that can be used as a den or a 6th bedroom, and another full, updated bathroom. The outdoor space is perfect for gatherings - choose from either the covered front porch, or expansive back deck in the fully fenced backyard, both with views of county parkland. The pergola with lights on the deck conveys. This home is walking distance to Hollin Hall Village Shopping Center and Mount Vernon Park Pool and is zoned for Waynewood Elementary. Don't miss this opportunity! [Hollin Hall Village - $1,379,000]

8103 Kane Ct

Welcome to 8103 Kane Court, a thoughtfully designed and meticulously maintained home centered in Fort Hunt Alexandria. This is not your average split-level home; it exudes professionally planned, like-new quality both inside and out! This exceptional property boasts bright, natural light that accentuates the soaring ceiling, fresh paint and hickory hardwood floors. The attention to detail is evident throughout, with tailor-made features including upgraded systems and fresh cosmetics. This single family presents a custom home office with built-ins and pocket door, offering a perfect space for remote work or study. The permitted garage and great room addition seamlessly blend function and comfort, featuring a gas fireplace and mini-split temperature control for added convenience. The renovated kitchen highlights cabinets with glass doors, stainless steel appliances, neutral backsplash and gorgeous granite countertops. Across from the kitchen is a central dining area for enjoying home cooked meals. You’ll rest well in one of three bedrooms on the upper level situated next to the remodeled full bath. Downstairs is the den/fourth bedroom, second full bath and a useful laundry room. The property's quality extends outside, with a hardy board exterior, new roof and windows, a fenced flat backyard complete with a patio, play set, playhouse and a generous storage shed. This home is located in the desirable Waynewood school district and is just minutes away from Old Town Alexandria, DC, Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon and Mount Vernon. For nature enthusiasts, the scenic George Washington Parkway and Fort Hunt Park are nearby, offering the ideal escape into nature. [Kirk - $879,900]

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

Stuart Nesbitt

View posts by Stuart Nesbitt
Stuart Nesbitt is a Realtor® licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. His office is located in Fairfax County near the City of Alexandria in Belle Haven. He was born and raised in Northern Virginia and attended Fairfax County schools. Call him at any time to discuss your real estate needs.