The prices of condos are going up in some parts of Northern Virginia and down in other areas, but one thing is for sure, condos are here to stay! Condo living looks like being the way of the future and there are several quite diversified reasons for their popularity.
High-rise condominium in Reston
One is obviously a reflection on our society - many of us just feel safer living in a close community that offers protection of some sort. Many condos have a secured entrance. There is also the fact that most condo owners live up higher than ground level and it is known that more burglaries happen in first floor condos.
A higher proportion of condos are also being built as gated communities these days, so condos offer much more security than a single-family dwelling. Many condos also offer 24 hour security patrols or underground parking.
Security is a big factor for all of us, but especially older people who may feel frail. With the baby boomers reaching retirement age, the largest ever population of pensioners will be looking for secure housing.
As age creeps upon us, we want to do fewer chores and have more peace. Another reason why a condo is so appealing as most condo maintenance is looked after by the management. Being able to walk though lawns that are fed, watered and cut by someone else has its appeal, as does swimming in a pool that is always at the perfect Ph balance!
There is another reason why members of the retirement population may like condos; it is easy to find friends in the unit and to visit without too much effort. Many condos also have a balcony, which is about enough outdoors once your back does not let you do the gardening anymore!
Real gardening buffs can search out a condo block that has large balconies and grow vegetables in pots! Make sure that you are able to grow vegetation on your balconies, this 'permission' thing may be an unfamiliar idea for those who are moving from single family dwellings.
Condos always have 'house rules'. They are there to protect rather than to hinder, but they are all individually designed. Rules can be vastly different from one condo unit to another. It would be extremely important to check the rules before you make your decision to buy.
If you find a condo with the type of rules that would fit into your normal lifestyle pattern, then there will be no conflict in your new life - that is if you are planning a change!
Properties in Focus
Welcome to this stunning 3 bedroom, 2.
5 bath townhome in the sought-after Potomac Yard neighborhood. This home provides an open floor plan and high ceilings with modern upgrades throughout. The beautiful dark hardwood floors are the perfect contrast to the large windows that flood the interior with natural light, while also offering custom shades for more privacy and recessed lighting throughout the entire home. The spacious living area flows into the gourmet kitchen that offers stainless steel appliances, updated cabinetry, granite countertops, stylish backsplash, a large pantry, and breakfast bar. Enjoy your dessert on your private balcony, just off the kitchen. The primary bedroom is quite impressive with a very generous walk-in closet and ensuite that features a double vanity, large, walk-in shower, and separate linen closet. The full size washer and dryer is conveniently located between the bedrooms in its own utility room. There’s plenty of parking, as this home offers a garage and driveway – parking for 2 cars – and additional street parking for guests. Enjoy nearby tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, soccer and baseball fields as well as the well-maintained walking and biking trails. Commuting is dream, just steps to Potomac Yard and Braddock Metro Stations, as well as being just a few blocks from Mt Vernon Ave which boasts an array of restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and boutiques. Reagan National Airport is only two miles away and Washington D.C. is less than five miles away. Enjoy the modern eloquence of Potomac Yard living! [Potomac Yard - $975,000]
***MOVE-IN-READY****New HVAC, new carpet, new LVP, new paint, new stainless kitchen appliances.
Stackable washer dryer just 3 years old. 1 garage space #330 conveys plus a visitor pass. Palazzo at Park Center is a pet friendly building conveniently located within in minutes of 395 and close to shopping, restaurants, Pentagon, Shirlington, Old Town, DCA, and DC. Community amenities include outdoor pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and large party room. [Palazzo At Park Center - $325,000]
ft. awaits in this remodeled + light-filled corner 1 Br/1 Ba home in Arlington Oaks, just a mile to the Ballston metro. Because of its corner position, the entire home is awash in light from the newer windows (replaced in 2018). Freshly painted throughout, with all new light fixtures and a new bathroom vanity + refreshed shower/tub. Kitchen features all stainless appliances, including new gas-range + refrigerator. Ample closet space both in the bedroom as well as a walk-in closet in hallway (where washer-dryer could be installed). Replacement electrical panel installed in last 5 years. Easy permitted parking at your front doorstep. The low condo fee covers water, heat, gas, and trash as well fitness center + party room. Shared laundry is a few steps out your front door. Enjoy the peaceful setting yet walk to the CVS, Target or Harris Teeter in minutes, dine at popular El Paso café around the corner, or access with ease Route 50 or I-66. Quick walk to Lubber Run Park w/ nature trails, sports courts, picnic areas, and an amphitheater featuring outdoor concerts. This home offers the urban lifestyle you've been looking for w/the green space so hard to find! [Arlington Oaks - $249,000]
Julie Nesbitt is an ABR who has served buyers in some of Alexandria’s most exclusive neighborhoods. She is a top producing agent who has listed and sold property in Northern Virginia. In addition to helping folks buy, sell and rent property in Northern Virginia, Julie is the primary administrator of the property management services performed by Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. Call Julie at (703)765-0300.
