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

8620 W Boulevard Dr

WATER VIEW! Beautiful, Unique All Brick 4,566 SF Mansion with View of the Potomac. Spacious 5 bedroom plus Den, Huge Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances, 6 full baths, 5 Car Garage, Extra Kitchen + Suite home in Alexandria area. Minutes away from Fort Belvoir, US Coast Guard Base, Metro, Coffee Shops, Restaurants, as well as Old Town Alexandria. Very easy commute to Washington DC and Pentagon via scenic George Washington Parkway. About 15 miles to Pentagon or Bolling AFB. Rare Corner Half Acre lot with Huge Backyard and Direct View/Access to the Potomac River and GW Parkland Trail. No better Location for DC & Ft Belvoir! Must See! -- [Waynewood - $1,850,000]

7815 Evening Ln

Welcome to 7815 Evening Lane, a meticulously kept traditional home situated in the highly desirable Hollin Brook Park subdivision of Alexandria. This 5 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom center hall colonial harmoniously juxtaposes traditional charm and modern amenities. The current owners have thoughtfully updated the home by creating a large kitchen with oversized quartz island, professional grade Wolf range, built-in microwave, Scotsman ice machine, undercounter beverage refrigerator, double wall oven, wet bar and bonus custom kitchen window that opens to the back yard with outdoor quartz countertop for seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining. The main floor includes a large storage room with slat wall panels for easy organization, an oversized pantry area with extra full-sized refrigerator and full-sized freezer, laundry room with LG high-efficiency W/D, utility sink and folding area, a meticulously organized tool/utility space, nicely updated powder room with hall closet, and a main living room with built-in ceiling speakers and projector with screen that conveys. The dining area has French doors that lead to the private back patio with Discovery playset and Weber gas grill. The second level has 5 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with new light fixtures/fans. The second hall bath has been fully updated by the current owners and the primary en suite bathroom has also received upgrades. The oversized primary bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings and its own private deck overlooking the backyard. The fifth bedroom on the second floor, formerly the office of President Ford’s press secretary, also has its own brand new trex balcony with exterior spiral staircase. This staircase was briefly used for the dissemination of Presidential correspondence and is currently enjoyed by the owners as separate access to the rear yard. Hollin Brook Park is a small subdivision in close proximity to Old Town, DC, the GW Parkway, the Pentagon and in walking distance to the local library and weekly farmers’ market. The neighborhood boasts an active community and all-around family friendly environment. The subdivision is quiet, with no pass-through streets, and backs up to the serene Paul Spring Branch. [Hollin Brook Park - $1,150,000]

1500 Collingwood Rd

Welcome to Collingwood Chateau - 1500 Collingwood Road – where luxury meets lifestyle! Prepare to be enchanted by this exceptional estate, a seamless blend of opulence and versatility. Picture yourself in the main house, a sprawling 7,500+ sq ft haven, connected flawlessly to an attached guesthouse, all nestled within a private 1.13-acre oasis (2 lots combined). The thoughtfully designed guest house offers over 2,200 square feet of living space, perfect for your extended family & friends. Your very own outdoor sanctuary awaits – a stunning pool, an inviting patio with an outdoor kitchen, oversized shed, and meticulously landscaped grounds create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and entertainment. This isn't just a home; it's a canvas for your unique lifestyle. Collingwood Château, located in sought-after Waynewood Elementary, was originally built in 1995 but underwent major renovations in 2010/ 2011. Most recently the sellers have painted the entire interior of the home, replastered the pool, added hardwood floors throughout the upper level, new exterior lighting, soft cleaned the stucco exterior, all HVACs (4 zone) were replaced within the last 6 years, roof on the main house was replaced 8 years ago. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, and the state-of-the-art home/media theater is your personal escape into entertainment bliss. Privacy is paramount, with the entire property encased in privacy walls + a gated entry. With two bundled lots, oversized 2 car garage, and parking space for over a dozen vehicles, this residence is not just a property; it's a statement. As you enter the home, the grand foyer welcomes you with an impressive 20-foot ceiling. The main level offers the option of formal or informal living and dining rooms, an office, the convenience of potential space for a future elevator, three fireplaces for cozy ambiance, and leads you upstairs where you will find the luxurious primary suite with two walk-in closets, a dressing room and kitchenette. If you are a cook and dream of hosting holidays or enjoy entertaining guests this kitchen will exceed your expectations. The kitchen offers 3 sinks, two refrigerators (36 and 42 inch), 2 wall ovens, a 200 bottle wine cooler, 2 dishwashers and 2 dishwashing drawers, a warming drawer, an ice maker, a beverage fridge, a 42 inch double oven gas range with 6 burners and a griddle, an electric cook top, and wall oven. This home is designed for versatility and the expansive recreation room located above the garage is no exception. The room offers incredibly views of the home's entry and the space provides multiple options as a room for an in-home businesses, playroom, gym, craft room and beyond. Connected yet thoughtfully independent, the guest house offers a separate entry with direct access to the outdoor patio/pool and garage. This wing of the home includes its own laundry room, ample storage spaces, two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a complete kitchen, and two distinct living spaces—offering a harmonious blend of connection and privacy. Seller Financing is available at a below market interest rate!! Rate dependent on buyer qualifications. Don't miss the Matterport Tour, Floorplan and video. [Collingwood - $2,900,000]

8905 Camfield Dr

March 2024 UPDATES at this lovely Fort Hunt neighborhood home:: NEW stainless steel GAS STOVE, NEW stainless steel BUILT-IN MICROWAVE OVEN, NEW stainless steel REFRIGERATOR, NEW designer FIXTURES, NEW designer LIGHTS, FRESH PAINTING, UPDATED BATHROOMS. Oversized bay windows in the living room & kitchen to soak in the sun all day making it a happy and healthy home. All freshly painted even in closets, wood floor refinished on two levels, updated bathrooms. Ensuite bath in the Primary bedroom. Lower level: Perfect for in-law-suite or guest areas, office/library has built in wall units, movie night, kid's rainy day play space, for a live-in au pair, man/woman cave with its own private entrance/exit. Sunroom addition leads to the brick patio & to the pool area. Fabulous for cooking & entertaining in the fully fenced in private lot. Yes, the pool(deep end is 5 feet) is inviting for sure. 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 is down the road in this all Single Family home community with no HOA. [Potomac Valley - $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]

2213 William and Mary Dr

ASSUMABLE VA LOAN offered at 2.25%, must qualify. ***Welcome Home to a Beautiful Spacious Fully Finished 3 Level Colonial on a Large Corner Lot in a Family-Friendly Neighborhood Located Within the Popular Stratford Landing Elementary School District with No HOA and just Minutes Away from GW Parkway, Parks, Scenic Bike/Walking Paths along the Potomac River, Metro, Shops, Restaurants, Grocery, Old Town, Mount Vernon, DC, National Airport, 495, 395, and more.*** ***New Upgrades Throughout the House!!*** Main Floor and Basement Renovation 2021-2023*** On the Lower Level, the Walk-out Basement (great Opportunity for Rental Income) in addition to the already existing Spacious 4th Bedroom and 3rd Full Bath, an Au Pair Suite with Attached new 4th Full Bath as well as Living/Dining Combo with a Kitchenette was Completed in Spring 2021. On the Main Level, a Bright Kitchen with Two Added Kitchen Pantries, Professionally Painted Cabinets, Stainless Steal Appliances, and Granite Countertops Opens to an Expansive Family Room with Crown Molding, a Cozy Woodburning Fireplace with Mantel and Screen surrounded by New Custom Made Built-Ins. A Sliding Door Leads to a Spacious L-Shaped Deck Great for Entertaining and Relaxing. Accessible From the Kitchen is also the Formal Dining Room with Chair Rail, Wainscoting, Crown Molding, and a New Chandelier that Opens to the Formal Living Room. The Living Room also has beautiful New Custom Built-ins and Crown Molding. Also on the Main Level, Created in 2021, a New Powder Room as well as a Laundry Room with a Front-Loading-Washer and Dryer as well as a Custom-Made Built-In Coat Rack. On the Upper-Level Located is a Light and Airy Primary Bedroom with a Ceiling Fan, Large Windows for Much Natural Sunlight, and an En-Suite Full Bath. Additional Upper-Level bedrooms are generous in size, and each has Ceiling Fans. The Large 2-car Garage with Access to the Attic has Plenty of Room for Storage or a Home Gym.*** Additional Improvements/Upgrades Include: Lifeproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring on the Main and Lower Level. Recess Lighting on the Main Level. Custom Cordless Blinds Throughout the House. Second Parking Space in Front Driveway Added in Spring 2023. Basement Side Entrance Gravel Driveway added in Spring 2021. Home Exterior Painted in Fall 2023. Extensive Tree Work was Completed in the Fall of 2022 and 2023. HVAC Ductwork was Professionally Cleaned in Spring 2023. Current Owners have been Using and Highly Recommending TruGreen Lawn Care Service Since Spring 2023 Year-Round. The Contract is Easily Transferrable to the New Owner. ***Don't miss this Great Opportunity!!!*** [Hensley Estate - $925,000]

8416 W Boulevard Dr

Stately home on top of the hill in Waynewood elementary school district! This home has it all, picturesque bright family room with Palladian window and vaulted ceilings, open kitchen with island, peninsula and a dedicated breakfast area. 0.4 acre lot, fully fenced backyard with wood deck and paver patio for endless hosting and play possibilities. Expanded 2 car garage for car AND storage space, 6 bedrooms, 3.5 beautifully renovated bathrooms, over 3,600 SF on 2 levels! Winter water views! $75,000 lower level renovation, new HVAC, 100 gallon HWH, roof 2012, Pella windows 2014. [Collingwood On the Potomac - $1,199,000]

8602 Cushman Pl

Check out this home on Cushman Place in WAYNEWOOD! This home has been updated from top to bottom. Main living area with open concept, new kitchen with new cabinets, quartz countertops, new stainless appliances, recessed lighting, custom range hood, island with eat in space, and built in pantry. The backsplash in this kitchen looks great! Main level also included eat in and living space. Walk out from kitchen to spacious sunroom with separate ductless heat and air for year round enjoyment. Lower level is finished and large enough to be used as office space with full size laundry, utility sink, and recessed lights. Large living room with updated fireplace opens up to a large, fenced in back yard. Upper level boasts 3 bedrooms and two fully renovated baths with new lighting, vanities and tile. Out back you have a large brick patio to relax and enjoy. Come take a look!! [Waynewood - $925,000]

1114 Croton Dr

FULLY RENOVATED home in sought after WAYNEWOOD! Don't miss this one. This home has been updated from top to bottom. Main living area with open concept, new kitchen with new cabinets, quartz countertops, new stainless appliances, recessed lighting, custom range hood, island with eat in space, and built in pantry. Main level also included eat in and living space. Walk out from kitchen to spacious sunroom with separate ductless heat and air for year round enjoyment. Lower level is finished with full size laundry, utility sink, and recessed lights. Large living room with updated fireplace opens up to new deck, overlooking large and private back yard. Upper level boasts 3 bedrooms and two fully renovated baths with new lighting, vanities and tile. NEW WINDOWS, NEW GAS HOT WATER HEATER, NEW GAS FURNACE AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM, NEW FLOORING. [Waynewood - $935,000]

2504 Sherwood Hall Ln

Price reduction! 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 - $2,150,000]

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.