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

1107 Croton Dr

Located in the highly desirable Waynewood community, this classic Mayfield model home is brimming with potential and awaiting a personal touch. Featuring 4 cozy bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this property offers ample space for living and entertaining. Throughout the main living areas, you'll find gleaming hardwood floors that add an undeniable touch of character and warmth. The inviting living room features a wood-burning fireplace. This home is close to Mt Vernon Trail, the shops at Hollin Hall, Old Town Alexandria, Fort Belvoir and D.C. Walking distance to Waynewood Elementary School. [Waynewood - $825,000]

1703 Shenandoah Rd

The time has come - a new custom home by The Zelaya Homes Team! You are going to love this refreshing layout and modern organic design style. This new 3 level home sits on a level fenced lot complete with usable back yard space and privacy. It faces North to allow for plenty of enjoyable sunlight throughout the day. The main level features an expansive luxury kitchen. The large island can comfortably sit 4-5 together. The stainless steel premium appliance package includes a Thor 36" gas commercial grade convection range with air fryer built in. A 25.5 cu ft LG smart refrigerator that makes 4 different types of craft ice, a microwave drawer, mini beverage fridge with dual temperature zones, and Thor quiet dishwasher. Your new countertops are ultra durable quartz. Additional kitchen features showcase under and over cabinet lighting, appliance garage cabinet, large pantry, wine bottle storage cabinet, bar area, and excess cabinet storage. The formal dining room makes room for large dinner parties (host 10-12 for the holidays!) or could double as a second living area. Your new family room has space for the whole family to enjoy an oversized sectional sofa and relax by your low maintenance remote controlled gas fireplace. The convenient mudroom off of the garage with side exterior access includes storage bench, shoe shelves and coat hooks. The oversized one car garage includes a quiet door opener and 40 amp plug ready for your EV charger. Walk out to the backyard patio and private yard from the family room, with all new pressure treated privacy fencing and stone paver patio. Build out your future outdoor kitchen with an easy access natural gas pipe connection. One level up includes, 5 large bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and the laundry room. The owners suite includes a private bath with large 4' x 6' shower, dual rain shower heads, double vanity sink, private toilet water closet, and 6’ long deep air jet bathtub. Surprise yourself with the 3rd floor finished loft space having a living area, bedroom, full bathroom, 2 nook storage areas and utility room with more space for storage. All three levels have 9’ ceilings, wide plank engineered hardwood oak floors. LED lights with dimmable switches were installed for controlling the ambience, energy efficiency and long lasting use. This home was built for comfort by including 2 HVAC zones with Nest smart Thermostats and tankless water heater with constant hot water. No shortage of storage in this home with excess storage closets on every level. The lot was completely regraded with new sod and landscaping. A sump pump and french drain system has been installed in the crawlspace. Verizon Fios fiber optic high speed internet is available in this neighborhood. 1703 Shenandoah is conveniently located in the wonderful community of Hollin Hall Village in the Fort Hunt Area. The neighborhood and pool host community events for all to come. It is walking distance to playgrounds, sport courts, park, 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 Waynewood Elementary School district with the bus stop being across the street. [Hollin Hall Village - $1,529,000]

904 Emerald Dr

This exceptional home is the brightest emerald on Emerald Drive, offering a luxurious lifestyle in an unbeatable location. With everything the discerning buyer desires – a gorgeous kitchen, a glistening pool, a walkout basement with a bedroom and full bathroom, a deck that runs the length of the home, river views, and more – this home is perfect for entertaining and multigenerational living. The focal point of this home is its exquisite kitchen with a wall of windows overlooking the backyard. The kitchen features bright white cabinetry, quartz countertops, and professional-grade stainless steel appliances. Adjacent to the kitchen, the family room provides a comfortable retreat with a stately brick fireplace, custom built-ins, and surround sound speakers, ideal for group gatherings or family time. Upstairs, there are four spacious bedrooms with generous closet space, two full bathrooms with deep oversized tubs, and a laundry area. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat with a beautifully updated bathroom and private balcony perfect for sipping your morning espresso. The hall bathroom has also been updated with a large tub and oversized shower. The finished walkout basement adds valuable living space, perfect for multigenerational living, with a bedroom, family room, full bathroom, and two storage rooms. Outside, the pool is the centerpiece of the private backyard, surrounded by beautiful hardscape, lush landscaping, and backs to trees. It’s an oasis for peace-seekers and entertainers alike. The two-story deck spans the length of the home and features two additional entertaining areas – a covered seating area and a dining pergola blooming with wisteria. Recent upgrades include a new roof (2024), professional interior paint (2024), basement carpet (2024), clothes washer (2023), and hot water heater (2019). Located on one of the nicest streets in Waynewood, this home offers easy access to parks, top-rated schools, and the GW Parkway and trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to call this exceptional property your own. Welcome home! [Waynewood - $1,450,000]

8040 Washington Rd

Welcome to 8040 Washington Road!! This beautiful 4 level, 5 bedroom, 5/1 bath, 9ft ceiling home is located in Hollin Hall Village, a charming community just a couple miles from George Washington's beloved home Mount Vernon. The owners have meticulously maintained the property. Walking in the front door you are greeted with a stunning two story foyer with lots of space to greet guests. From there you'll walk on gleaming hardwoods to the formal living room and dining room. Have a baby grand? There's lots of space for it so you can play and entertain your guests. The dining room is just off the kitchen with good access but separate from the cooking space. The back of the house features a large eat-in kitchen with island open to the family room with gas fireplace. Cozy up to the fireplace and enjoy a good book and a pretty view of the trees off the deck. Heading out to the trex deck you'll find lots of room for entertaining, and protection from the VA sun with the automated awning. Enjoy cooking outside? You will now. The sellers are leaving their new grill with a newly installed natural gas line. No more propane cans! Heading to up the upstairs to the first upper level there is large primary suite with walk-in closet, private ensuite with double sinks, soaking tub and lots of light. There are 3 additional good sized bedrooms on this level. One has it's own private ensuite and the other two share a Jack and Jill bathroom. You will also find the laundry room on this level! No carrying laundry baskets up and down stairs. From this level you climb another set of stairs to the top level loft. This space is ideal for an office, hobby room or another bedroom as it also has a full ensuite. Heading downstairs to the lower level you have a spacious recreation room with walkout to the back yard. There is also another full bedroom with ensuite, perfect as an au pair suite or guest room. Inside the storage room there is full house sound system. This home comes with a generator, power outages are no longer a concern! You will be able to keep your two HVAC/Furnace systems working their 4 zones for very comfortable living. Heading outside there is an irrigation system with beautiful landscaping with uplighting. Finally, the garage! With two separate doors, this garage easily fits two cars and has a custom storage built-in system. A few other updates in the past couple of years include entire house interior painted, plank flooring (luxury vinyl plank) throughout entire basement, new wall-to-wall upgraded carpeting throughout second and third floors, custom carpet runner on stairs, new gas hot water heater, whole house HVAC air purification system, exterior landscape improvements: drainage system with river rock, celestial timer, and 2 new low voltage lighting conversion boxes, new garage door spring and track assembly, including 2 new remote controls, new exterior landscape irrigation automatic valve system, new retractable Sunsetter awning fabric replacement, new fiber optic wiring for internet and cable TV, new dimmer switches throughout house and new window treatments in kitchen, basement family room and bedroom. This home is zoned for the Waynewood Elementary School. Nearby are the wonderful shops and restaurants of Hollin Hall Village, including the famous Variety Store and Village Hardware! Mount Vernon Park is just down the block and offers a pool, pond, tennis courts and pavilion in a parklike setting. Even though you will feel far away from urban mayhem, you are minutes from the George Washington Parkway with its beautiful views of the Potomac River, biking and walking path, easy access to Old Town, Hwy 495, Reagan International Airport. Don’t miss out on this amazing property! Open houses April 27 & 28, 2-4 pm! [Hollin Hall Village - $1,325,000]

2504 Sherwood Hall Ln

PRICE ADJUSTMENT!!! Welcome to an extraordinary property in Alexandria. Nestled on over three quarters of an acre behind a gated entrance you will feel tucked away with lots of space to live, entertain and relax in. The home is almost 6,000 sq ft of expansive elegant living. Walking inside the front door you are greeted with vaulted ceilings and a grand staircase. The main level features formal living room and dining room, office and gourmet kitchen with island open to a vaulted ceiling family room with gas fireplace. Step out side the sliding doors to one of the most amazing yards in Alexandria. There you find a huge pool, hot tub, putting green, gazebo, tiki bar with out side kitchen. The yard is wired for music and beautiful lighting. There's still lots of room to add a pool house, or an auxiliary living unit. So much space! Back in side, the upper level has 4 bedrooms including a primary ensuite with gas fireplace, sitting area, double closets and large bathroom. Heading down to the lower level there is another gas fireplace, lots of room for a pool or pingpong table, plus a theatre room, another bedroom and workout/extra room. The oversized two car garage is set up for electric car charging. Located in the highly sought after Fort Hunt community, you have access to great youth sports programs, community centers, including the Mount Vernon Community Center which is currently receiving a multi-million dollar renovation that will feature two ice rinks, swimming pool, fitness area. Just south of Old Town Alexandria, it's great for commuting, just a couple of miles from hwy 495, it's also just a short 20 minute drive Reagan International .Airport. During the summer months you are steps away from a farmer's market for fresh produce, baked goods, plants and more. Also located close by is the Sherwood Hall Library. Come see this hidden gem for yourself! It's really a one-of-a-kind property. [Hybla Valley Farms - $1,949,000]

8215 Tis Well Dr

Unlock the door to your new home! This charming townhome is a hidden gem nestled in a private community abutting Little Hunting Creek. The home features an open main level floorplan, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths plus a lower level walkout, bonus room/office and recreation room. 2024 - refinished hardwood floors main level, new carpet on upper level and stairs, new ceiling light fixtures on lower and upper levels, new vanity in primary suite, new stove in the kitchen, fresh exterior paint on the shutters, railings and front door. 2023-full interior house paint, new LVP flooring on lower level, updated half bathrooms. Roof is estimated at 15+ yrs, water heater 2009, hvac 2001 and pricing is reflective of the condition. The lower level has a fully fenced-in, cozy brick paver patio that adds the perfect combination of extended indoor/outdoor entertaining and family space. There's also room to add your own flower and herb gardens. There are two assigned parking spaces in the parking lot and plenty of street parking in front of the home. This home is an estate sale and was gently lived in by the original family members. It's ready for your personal updates and an excellent opportunity to start building equity now! The community offers an abundance of amenities including walking paths, 2 playgrounds, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a kayak/canoe launching area directly to Little Hunting Creek which feeds into the Potomac River. River Farms is conveniently located to retail/restaurants, hospital, police, local government offices, Reagan Airport, Huntington Metro, National Landing, major transportation routes and major employment centers. [Huntington At Mt Vernon - $580,000]

8406 Brewster Dr

Welcome to your dream home! This METICULOUSLY UPDATED 4BR/2.5BA detached home, featuring all levels finished and a 1-car attached garage, in the coveted STRATFORD ON THE POTOMAC community, is a true masterpiece! Situated on .29 acres with a fenced, level lot, enjoy a serene and private backdrop of mature trees and an EXPANSIVE outdoor patio ('21)--perfect for entertaining! Stroll along your inviting stamped concrete walkway (Aug '22) to your covered front porch. Step through the stately double door entry to find a welcoming Foyer with modern tile flooring ('21) and a FULLY UPGRADED INTERIOR! The Main & Upper Levels showcase refinished GLEAMING HARDWOOD floors throughout (newer HDWDs in Kitchen--Aug '21), enhancing the spacious ambiance! Your COMPLETELY RENOVATED (Aug '21) Chef's Delight Kitchen is a culinary haven, featuring ample 42" shaker-style cabinetry, QUARTZ countertops, trendy tile backsplash, a large CENTER ISLAND with barstool overhang, and stainless appliances (Aug '21) -- seamlessly opening into your SUN-FILLED Dining Room, accented by a custom wainscoting accent wall! Retreat to your spacious Family Room featuring a charming brick fireplace with gas insert, handcrafted built-in shelving & a SUNLIT sliding glass door to your Backyard Oasis! The conveniently located main level Laundry/Mud Room is adjacent to the garage and has a washer/dryer (July '16), utility sink (March '24), and ample built-in cabinets! The main level PRIVATE STUDY offers a quiet space to work. Enjoy your Owner's Bedroom Retreat with its spacious layout, complete with double closets and a NEWLY REMODELED (April '24) Private Owner's Bath with a new raised vanity, separate shower & DESIGNER FINISHES. Additional Upper Level Bedrooms 2, 3 & 4 are SPACIOUS in size -- Bedrooms 2 & 3 have walk-in closets. The Hall Bath, fully updated (April '24), features new tile flooring, a raised vanity & tub/shower with tile surround. The FINISHED LOWER LEVEL offers a versatile space, including a convenient WALK-OUT STAIRS ELEVATION and large Exercise/Recreation, and Storage/Utility Rooms! Tons of storage in the floored attic or lower level Storage/Utility Room! ADDITIONAL UPGRADES: Neutral paint throughout, ALL BATHS UPDATED--April '24, replaced A/C and furnace cleaned (Aug '17), ceiling fans in bedrooms ('21), newer paved driveway (June '21), additional recessed lighting throughout ('19), Exercise Room tile in lower level ('19), red oak HDWDs refinished ('16), extensive tree work ('22), professional landscaping, waterproofing and sump pump ('18), cedar fence portion ('22) & more! Conveniently located near MAJOR commuting arteries, our Nation's Capital, Pentagon, Reagan National Airport, Fort Belvoir & more! Sought-after school pyramid! TRULY a MOVE-IN ready home--make it YOUR home! **Be sure to check out: 3D & video tours!** [Stratford On the Potomac - $975,000]

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. Upgrades: New Kitchen 2018*Great Room w/ Fireplace Addition 2022*New Main Bath 2019*New Lower Level Bath 2020*New Shed w/ Bike Storage 2020*New Hickory Hardwood Flooring, Baseboards, Trim & Crown Molding 2020-2022*New Solid Wood 6 Panel Doors 2020-2022*Upgraded Electrical Service & Break Box 2022*All New Windows 2021*New Lighting & Hardware Fixtures 2021*New Garage 2019*Regraded Backyard & Landscaping 2023*New Patio 2023*New Hardy Board Siding, Soffits & Trim 2022*New Roof 2022*New A/C 2020 (approx)*Upstairs Landing Halfwall, Railings & Stairs 2023*Basement Storage Area Concrete Floor & Drainage 2020*Built-In Custom Home Office 2023*4th Bedroom/Den & Closets 2019*New Kitchen 2018*Great Room w/ FP Addition 2022* New Main Bath 2019*New LL Bath 2020* [Kirk - $825,000]

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 - $1,569,000]

1209 Chadwick Ave

Saturday Open House, 04/27 from 2:00-4:00pm. 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]

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.