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
3751 S Four Mile Run Dr

OPEN HOUSES: FRIDAY 04/03 FROM 5PM TO 7 PM AND SAT 05/04 FROM 11 AM TO 2 PM. Seller has a FHA Assumable Loan with an interest rate of 3.125%. Fully renovated END UNIT 2 bedroom 2 bathroom corner townhome with 3 levels. This home is very well maintained and features a very inviting open floor concept. Home boasts a welcoming front porch and a very private back patio. New stainless steel appliances, front load washer and dryer, beautiful hard wood floors throughout the house, new steel stair railing and huge backyard where family and friends can enjoy endless cook-outs and much more. This property boast a total finished SQFT of 1260. PRIVATE DRIVEWAY PARKING FOR 3 CARS IN FRONT OF THE PROPERTY. NO HOA. This property is just minutes to Shirlington Village where there are many Restaurants & Coffee, Harris Teeter, Movie Theatre and Dog Park. Quick access to I395, Pentagon & DC. Walk to W & OD Trail. 9 minutes drive to Pentagon Metro Station. [Fort Barnard Heights - $625,000]

4417 36th St N

Nestled on a lush 0.38 acre lot in the exclusive Country Club Hills community, an unassuming contemporary Craftsman façade debuts a private urban oasis sure to take your breath away. Built in 2012 and continuously upgraded throughout the years, 4417 36th St N offers a jaw-dropping outdoor respite surpassing that of any luxury spa or high-end resort. Mature trees, stone retaining walls and eight-foot board on board fencing ensure utmost privacy for residents as they unwind in the heated 33’ saltwater pool, prepare an extravagant spread with the Lynx built-in grill, dine on the thermal stone flagstone dining terrace, or recline under the Zuri lounge deck’s pergola overlooking the enchanting oasis. Inside, 9,200 square feet of impeccably maintained and luxuriously updated interiors span the suburban sanctuary’s 3 methodically appointed levels. Showcasing incredible scale throughout, this 6 Bedroom, 5 Full Bathroom, 3 Half Bathroom residence displays exquisite design notes to include soaring 10-foot coffered and tray ceilings, elegant moldings, gleaming hardwood floors, top-of-the-line fixtures, luxury finishes and an abundance of windows flooding the expansive interiors with natural light. Debuting the rarely attainable and highly sought-after synthesis of modern amenities, timeless design, suburban serenity and urban convenience, this contemporary craftsman is an extraordinary gem sited in a priceless location.

Offering a grand entrance, the two-story foyer lends a warm welcome to this exceptional abode. The vast yet intimate Living and Dining Rooms flank the palatial entryway to offer more formal settings for entertaining while the true heart of the home resides in the sprawling Family Room and coveted Chef’s Kitchen. Adorned with soaring coffered ceilings, walls of sliding glass doors and a cozy natural gas fireplace, the Family Room lends the quintessential space for charmingly intimate gatherings. Adjoint, the swoon-worthy Gourmet Kitchen is sure to delight any caliber chef. Boasting high-end Miele appliances, custom metal range hood, an in-wall coffee maker, herringbone tile backsplash, sleek cabinetry, ample counterspace, and a Butler’s Pantry with Bar Display, this state-of-the-art Kitchen is any host’s dream. Offering the pinnacle of indoor-outdoor living, numerous sliding glass doors lend direct access to the rear oasis for effortless al fresco dining and entertaining. Delight in a seamless transition from poolside lounging to evening enjoyment with the exterior’s Enhanced Lighting LLC Outdoor Lighting System and Speakers. A Home Office with lots of sunlight and convenient access and views of the rear patio, Mud Room with access to the newly transformed 2-Car Attached Garage completes the Main Level’s offerings.

Comprised of the principal bedrooms, the Upper Level showcases an enviable Primary Suite sure to provide the ultimate sanctuary within the residence. Boasting 10’ tray ceilings, two separate entrances, a Sitting Room, two outfitted Walk-In Closets, and a fully renovated spa Bathroom featuring a dual vanity, soaking tub, and walk-in steam shower. Four bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a conveniently appointed Laundry Room with new tile flooring and new Electrolux Washer and Dryer, and additional Sitting Room are located on the Upper Level.

The multifunctional Lower Level has been completely transformed into a recreational masterpiece. Boasting a concrete pool table, aluminum tile gas fireplace, surround sound ceiling system, Stickwood wall system, Wine Room and Kitchenette with U-line Refrigerator, U-line Icemaker, Bosch Dishwasher, microwave, and ample seating, this Recreation Room is sure to impress and entertain guests or residents of any age. A home Gym with rubber flooring and sound system, additional ensuite Bedroom and ample storage space complete the Lower Level’s amenities. [Country Club Hills - $3,995,000]

1401 N Oak St #903,905

Spacious Rosslyn Penthouse featuring 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and roughly 3,500 square feet in The Weslie Condominium with UNRIVALED views of the Potomac, Arlington and the Washington, DC skyline. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own side-by-side units tastefully combined into one to create nearly 3,500 sq ft of living space. Experience the awe-inspiring views of Arlington, Washington DC and the iconic landmarks from this one-of-a-kind multi-level Penthouse unit, distinguished by its remarkable floor-to-ceiling windows and dual balconies. As the ONLY side by side combined unit on the Penthouse level in The Weslie Condominium, this sprawling residence spans 3 levels featuring three bedrooms, four full bathrooms, a sauna with separate shower and ample storage. Upon entering the main level, bask in the radiant sunlight that fills the space, enhanced by the grandeur of 13-foot ceilings and elegant marble floors. A wood burning fireplace gracefully divides the living room and family room. Ornate crown molding accents the rooms while the built-ins in the family room add character and warmth to the space. Ascend several steps to the upper level, where an expansive dining room offers an ideal setting for gatherings. The functional kitchen also enjoys splendid views, presenting an opportunity for the new owners to infuse their style and enhance its allure. Office space is conveniently found on the opposite side of the dining room. Delve into the condo's dual wings and travel down the main hallway to discover the oversized primary bedroom, boasting ample storage space and a luxurious en suite bathroom. The second wing reveals two additional bedrooms, one of which features its own en suite. One could spend an entire day outdoors between both balconies, enjoying the spectacle of planes soaring overhead, the magnificent monuments and flowing Potomac River which promise to enhance your living experience. There's a serene ambiance when perched up high on the penthouse level taking in the vastness of the city and river. Let's not overlook the fantastic 4th of July celebrations that can be hosted at his remarkable home! The Weslie Condominium offers a 24 hour concierge, garage parking, manicured grounds, and a fitness center. Three garage spaces and two garage storage units convey with the home. The property is within a couple blocks of the Arlington Transportation Bus stop and 0.5 miles from the Rosslyn Metro Station. Walking distance to the Iwo Jima national memorial as well as other parks, bike/jogging trails, and just 5 miles from Ronald Reagan National Airport. Penthouse living that seamlessly combines luxury, space, and breathtaking views! [The Weslie - $3,499,000]

4129 N Randolph St

FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY! STUNNING 2013 BUILT CUSTOM HOME BY MONARCH CUSTOM HOMES THAT FEELS BRAND NEW BOASTING APPROXIMATELY 7,500 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING SPACE ON AN AMAZING, HARD TO FIND .48 ACRE LOT ON A QUIET STREET JUST ACROSS THE BRIDGE FROM WASHINGTON, D.C., RIGHT ON THE BIKE TRAIL ALONG THE POTOMAC RIVER, IN ONE OF ARLINGTON'S TOP SOUGHT AFTER SCHOOL PYRAMIDS! Handsome curb appeal with beautiful landscaping & a welcoming flagstone front walk to the portico entry with gas lantern * Light-filled floor plan featuring four finished levels with 9' ceilings on 3 levels, wood floors on main level, staircases and upper level landing, luxurious wood carpet, & beautiful wood trim and baseboards throughout * Over $250,000 of designer features added! * Formal living room with bay window, recessed lightings, built-in shelving, & custom shutters & window treatments * Formal dining room with custom shutters & window treatments with Butler pantry between dining room & kitchen * Open kitchen with oversized island with marble top, granite counters with tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances plus two paneled dishwashers, desk area, eat-in area with French doors to back yard, & recessed lighting * Mudroom with coat closet and storage cabinets lead to the two car garage with automatic openers plus finished walls & recessed lighting * Cozy family room has wall of windows looking out to the back yard, wood fireplace with gas rough in & stone surround with wood mantle * Open wood staircases with picture windows looking out to yard * Primary bedroom has a wood fireplace with stone surround & gas rough-in * Luxurious primary bath with marble tile floors, two vanities with marble tops, soaking tub, bay window, & separate shower with glass doors, marble tile floor & surround, built-in bench, & 3 shower heads * Incredible custom dressing rooms/closets with built-in shelving & cabinets with glass display shelving, floor to ceiling mirror, center island with marble top, & recessed lights * Second & third bedrooms with private baths & walk-in closets * Bedroom level laundry room * Upper level recreation room is the perfect home office or bedroom suite with dormer windows, recessed lighting, bedroom with private bath & walk-in closet (currently used as fitness room with rubber floor) * Lower level recreation room has cozy gas fireplace with stone surround, built-in television projector & screen, built-in surround sound, wet bar with marble top & beverage refrigerator * Walk-out area with stone floor leads to flagstone patio * Lower level guest bedroom has private bath * Powder room off the recreation room * Huge utility room/storage room with HVAC, 75 gallon gas water heater, extra refrigerator plus freezer, plus lots of storage space * Relaxing trex deck off the kitchen is a great place to unwind and grill out with steps out to the back yard * Wonderful, private back yard surrounded by trees with open space * Great location with easy access to Washington, D.C. and the Potomac River * Owner would consider selling fully or partially furnished * DON'T MISS OUT! [Arlingwood - $2,999,900]

1781 N Pierce St #305

Experience the pinnacle of luxurious city living in this exceptional condominium located in the vibrant neighborhood of Rosslyn. Situated at 1781 Pierce St, this remarkable home offers unmatched convenience, it​'s a short distance from Georgetown, Washington DC, Reagan National Airport and the Rosslyn metro station. Residents of Pierce Building have access to a range of upscale amenities, including a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of DC, pool, fitness center, 24/7 white glove concierge services​ and secure garage parking. The state-of-the-art kitchen boasts Thermador appliances, gas cooking, wine fridge and a spacious island with stunning quartz waterfall countertops. This contemporary 2 bedroom, 2 full bath condo is a modern sanctuary with clean lines, high-end finishes and abundant natural light, creating an ambiance of elegance and relaxation. Don't let this rare opportunity to own a piece of urban paradise in one of Rosslyn's most desirable locations pass you by. [Rosslyn - $950,000]

4320-4 N Pershing Dr #43204

Lovely 1 br/ba garden style condo with new luxury vinyl floors and freshly painted throughout. Open floor plan with almost 700 square feet of floor space. Kitchen features new Refrigerator, New Quartz counters. new subway tile back splash . Large walk-in coat closet, excellent for storage. Bathroom has a new toilet. One mile to 2 metro stops. Walking distance to Ballston shopping and dining. Club house and fitness room are located at the main office 4490 Pershing Drive. LOCATION, LOCATION,LOCATION!! This condo is nestled in a delightful park like setting, with large mature trees surrounding this quad. Building has security intercom. Exterior has been renovated. General parking , 2 permanent and 2 visitor passes transfer with the unit. Extra storage is available from $80-130 per month. Pets, are allowed. 1 cat OR 1 dog per unit. [Arlington Oaks - $255,000]

5112 9th St N

Welcome to your new home by Classic Cottages! This beautifully designed residence offers an unparalleled living experience with a 13 minute walk to Ballston Quarter. Outside, the property features a beautifully landscaped yard, providing a serene environment for outdoor activities and gatherings. The deck is perfect for barbecues and overlooks a large fenced in yard. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with JennAir stainless steel appliances, sleek quartz countertops, ample storage space, and a center island that serves as a focal point for culinary creations. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, this kitchen provides everything you need to whip up delicious meals. Upstairs, you'll find the luxurious primary suite, offering a private retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The primary bedroom boasts generous proportions, large windows, and two walk-in closets, providing both comfort and convenience. The primary bathroom is a spa-like oasis, featuring a soaking tub, a walk-in shower, and elegant fixtures that exude sophistication. Two additional well-appointed bedrooms can be found on this level, each with its own unique charm and plenty of natural light. These rooms are versatile and can be used as guest rooms or a home office. The lower level of the home offers additional living space, including a spacious recreation room with wet bar, bonus room and guest room. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize the space to suit your lifestyle. 5112 9th Street N benefits from its prime location in Arlington, VA. The neighborhood offers a perfect balance between tranquility and urban convenience. You'll find a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and entertainment options, all within a short distance from your doorstep. [Mulhall - $1,899,000]

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.