Basics Of Home Buying in Arlington VA

The most important investment you will ever make is probably the purchase of a home. Finding the right home in Arlington can be challenging but that's why Nesbitt Realty is here.
Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory.

Know Your Priorities

One of our jobs as agents it to help the client organize their thoughts.  We like our clients to actually sit down with pen and paper and work through what features are most important. Equally important, on a new sheet of paper list all the features you absolutely do not want in a house. For example:
  • high-traffic area -- Some folks won't buy a home near the Beltway or along a busy road like Rt. 50 or Glebe Rd.
  • high noise area -- Some buyers love the convenience of Crystal City, so people can't stand the noise of the airplanes.
  • maintenance -- Are you willing take a fixer-upper?  Would you buy a home that needed major repairs?
As you look at houses, keep both lists in mind. Your lists may change over time as you do more looking. You'll want to add or remove features, or perhaps you'll become willing to make compromises. Realize that you most likely will not find the "perfect" home. Your agent might tell you, perfect homes are not found, they are made perfect through hard work.

Get Your Credit Report In Order

Prior to looking at properties, you must get your finances in order. This is the time to review your credit report and clean it up, if need be, to maximize your credit score. Many people do not realize how important it is to check your credit report periodically to make sure it is accurate. You should pay off any past due amounts, or negotiate a settlement price to close the debt. Get such agreements in writing, before paying any settlement. Keep all receipts for any settled items from your credit report since it may take months to get the debt actually removed.

Get Pre-Approved For A Loan

You're ready now to find a lender and get yourself pre-approved for the loan. Being pre-approved offers a number of advantages. It will clarify the price range you can afford. Also, once you find the home you want, you can place an immediate offer. If you have to wait for pre-approval, someone could buy the house right out from under you. Several special programs are often available from lenders, such as the FHA or Ameri-Dream, that can save you money in the closing. Ask the lender about any special programs before you decide on a loan.

Get Good Representation

Broker and Agents in conference room
Broker and Agents in conference room
It is wise for the first time homebuyer to work closely with a real estate agent, no matter what type of property you're looking for. A Nesbitt Realty agent will make your house-hunting much easier. Our Realtors know Arlington and we're trained to know how to negotiate the many details of your purchase. It's essential that you have a real estate agent working for you as the buyer, rather than relying on the seller's agent for the house you want to buy. The latter can involve a conflict of interest, which usually works to your disadvantage. These are just the basics of home buying. Contact us to get more details and to learn more about how we can save you thousands on your purchase. Newest Listings in Arlington
2030 N Adams St #911

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, March 30th* Noon-2pm...Why rent when you can own this beautifully updated- TURN-KEY ready* 1 bedroom & 1 bath meticulously maintained condo in the highly sought-after Arlington area* Recent Home Inspection report is available upon request*ALL UTILITIES included in Condo fee: Electric, Gas, Water, Trash, Sewer*The open floor-plan between the living//dining area, kitchen, balcony and bedroom creates a seamless flow for everyday living, working or entertaining*This unit is move-in ready*Updated Kitchen - Stainless steel appliances w/built in microwave, gas stove, and a pass-through breakfast bar to living area*Kitchen also features granite countertops, tile back-splash and tile flooring *Large, private balcony to enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine*Plenty of storage w/custom built-ins, several linen closets and other storage closets*Updated bathroom with marble tile floors and subway tiles in shower/tub combination*Freshly painted February 2024 from ceiling to baseboard * Heating / AC system was replaced in June 2022*The Circle Condominium amenities include: a rooftop terrace with stunning panoramic views of DC, private outdoor pool, BBQ areas w/ picnic tables and grills, community room, digital laundry facilities, and on-sight building management. Bike and storage areas are available for an additional fee *The Circle Condo walk-ways lead to the W&OD trail. Minutes from Market Common at Clarendon, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods & Farmer's Market, The Italian Store, Lyon Village, Theaters, Grocery Store and Restaurants*Quick access to Rosslyn, Georgetown, DC, Amazon's HQ2, Reagan National Airport & the Pentagon. Close to commuter routes I-66, GW Parkway, less than a mile to Courthouse METRO (Orange & Silver lines), and ART transit bus and METRO bus run at the end of the street for convenient access to DC. *Enhance your urban lifestyle and call this condo HOME*Assigned parking space #17* Seller has a Home Inspection Report available for your review* [Arlington - $274,900]

1300 Army Navy Dr #710

Welcome to this stunning highrise condo located at 1300 Army Navy Dr, Arlington, VA. This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit offers 664 square feet of city living at its finest. The parquet floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by the open views from the private balcony. The galley kitchen is equipped with a gas stove and refrigerator, perfect for preparing delicious meals. The building amenities include a pool, tennis court, and a common roof deck, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Additionally, the service level is top-notch with a dedicated concierge, security system, and private storage included. Residents will appreciate the convenience of central AC, gas heat, a laundry room 20 feet from the unit, and assigned parking space. The building also offers guest parking for visitors. With an elevator for easy access, this condo ensures both comfort and practicality. ***Condo/HOA Fee includes ALL UTILITIES*** Located in a prime location, this condo provides easy access to all that Arlington has to offer. Don't miss the opportunity to make this sophisticated urban retreat your own. Schedule a showing today and experience the epitome of city living in this remarkable condo. [Horizon House - $295,000]

1245 N Pierce St #12

Built in 2018! This Exceptional Penthouse with OWN private rooftop and an extended wrap-around balcony offers exclusive living experience in Arlington's desirable area, minutes from Georgetown and DC, It features a spacious and well-designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom layout, enhanced by an open floor plan that radiates modern elegance. The interior boasts Calacatta quartz countertops, a gourmet kitchen with top-tier stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and light hardwood flooring throughout. The home is brightened by ample natural light through large windows and benefits from recessed lighting. The charm of your future home is amplified by its custom marble bathrooms with LED mirrors and a convenient front-loading washer/dryer. The residence includes a customized closet offering plenty of storage space. One of the unique highlights of this property is its expansive private rooftop. Accessible via an office area on the upper level, the 500 sqft rooftop deck provides spectacular views of Arlington and a glimpse of the D.C. skyline, ideal for relaxation or entertaining guests. This condo comes with one covered parking space, adding convenience to its list of features. Its location is a key asset, situated conveniently close to the metro, a variety of restaurants and retail options, and easy commute to Georgetown and Washington D.C. [Arlington - $980,000]

6938 27th Rd N

Delightful residence in North Arlington, minutes away from the bustling City of Falls Church! Seamless open living, dining, and kitchen spaces, enveloped in natural light streaming through numerous windows. The expansive kitchen offers abundant storage, ample cabinet space, and generous room for culinary endeavors. Updated throughout, including newly permitted egress windows in the lower level, inviting even more sunlight into the home and offering the potential to easily incorporate a fifth bedroom. The lower level features a cozy bedroom and full bath, ideal for accommodating guests. Set on a sprawling private lot backing to RPA (Resource Protection Area), ensuring a serene backyard environment with no future development encroachments. Embrace the convenience of nearby walking and biking trails leading to Metro, City of Falls Church, and Arlington—granting easy access to parks, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and eclectic boutiques. Tucked away in a tranquil cul-de-sac with no through traffic, this residence is surrounded by $2M+ homes, presenting an affordable opportunity for those seeking prime location, top-rated schools, and peaceful living, all within close proximity to urban amenities. [North Arlington - $1,050,000]

919 N Edgewood St

Discover unparalleled sophistication in this exquisite transitional masterpiece crafted by HR Developers, nestled in the highly sought-after Lyon Park of North Arlington! Boasting over 6,750 sq ft of opulent living space on an expansive 9,000 sq ft flat lot, this residence showcases 5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and 2 powder rooms spread across four impeccably designed levels. The main level welcomes you with a sense of grandeur, featuring 10-foot ceilings and a seamless open floor plan. Indulge your culinary passions in the state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, equipped with a 48" Wolf Range and a 48" Subzero fridge. This level also offers two stylish powder rooms, a cozy gas fireplace, a delightful breakfast nook, elevator shaft readiness, and a generously sized pantry for your convenience. Escape to tranquility on the serene screened porch, adorned with flagstone flooring and a captivating gas fireplace, creating your own private urban oasis. Step into the blissful backyard, a sanctuary of relaxation and leisure. Ascend to the luxurious owner's suite, your private retreat boasting a balcony, custom walk-in closets, and a spa-inspired bath featuring double vanities, dual shower heads, and a luxurious freestanding tub, ensuring ultimate relaxation. For elevated living, ascend to the top loft, a versatile space complete with a full bath, offering endless possibilities. Entertainment knows no bounds in the lower level, featuring a sprawling recreation room with a wet bar, an exercise zone, ample storage, an additional bedroom with its bathroom, and an impressive media area, primed for your optional golf simulator. Steps to the Metro and just 1 block to Clarendon, the location can't be beat! Don't miss your chance to own this unparalleled beauty in Lyon Park. Your dream home awaits! [Moores Clarendon - $2,950,000]

3830 30th Rd N

Welcome to your new home in the coveted Bellevue Forest neighborhood of Arlington! This contemporary masterpiece by HR Developers offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, convenience, and sophistication. Step inside and experience the epitome of modern living. This move-in ready residence boasts a main level bedroom, perfect for guests or multigenerational living, and even features an elevator shaft for added accessibility and future-proofing. Entertain in style on the spacious screened-in porch, complete with a gas fireplace, ideal for cozy evenings outdoors. And with Donaldson Run Park just a short stroll away, you'll have nature's playground right at your doorstep. Spread across three levels, this home spans an impressive 7000+ square feet, offering ample space for every need. The main level welcomes you with soaring 10-foot ceilings and exquisite white oak floors, setting the stage for luxury living. The heart of the home is the chef's kitchen, boasting top-of-the-line appliances including a 48" Wolf range and a 48" Subzero stainless steel refrigerator. Venture upstairs to discover the primary suite retreat, complete with a private balcony overlooking the serene backyard, a coffee bar, and a lavish spa-like bathroom with double vanities, a glass-enclosed shower, and a standalone soaking tub. The lower level is an entertainer's dream, featuring a spacious rec room with a wet bar and gas fireplace, an exercise room, and a media room with the potential for an incredible golf simulator setup. An additional bedroom with a full bathroom ensures plenty of space for guests. Outside, multiple outdoor living spaces beckon, from balconies to a rear deck and patio area, offering endless opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. Conveniently located near the GW Parkway, parks, and swim/tennis clubs, and zoned for top-rated schools, including Jamestown Elementary, Williamsburg Middle, and Yorktown High, this home promises an exceptional living experience for discerning buyers. Don't miss your chance to make this stunning residence your own! [Bellevue Forest - $3,099,999]

Arlington, Buying, First Time Homebuyers, Home Buying, Residential

Will Nesbitt

View posts by Will Nesbitt
Will is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. He is licensed in anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but focuses on those communities found in and around Alexandria, Arlington, Mount Vernon and Springfield/Franconia. Will has been involved in real estate management, sales and investment for more than twenty years. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in the army, he studied Russian at Monterey's Defense Language Institute. He is also a "veteran of the dotcom wars" and built most of the sites associated with NesbittRealty.com Will currently resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Old Town, overlooking New Alexandria. He is a former president of the Mount Vernon Youth Athletic Association and founded the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group. Will is the author of BattlestorM, a tabletop fantasy game, which was published by Ral Partha Publishing in the late '90's, and Arthur's Realm, a boardgame available at the Gamecrafter.