A little feedback from an appreciative client

Wow! I just got this from Jeremy W. This really makes me proud to work with Nesbitt Realty.
Howdy Mr. Nesbitt--
Belle View sign
Entrance to Belle View condominiums
I wanted to take a moment to highlight the exceptional service I received from one of your agents, Ben Fornshell. Within a few hours of emailing Ben, we made an appointment to meet the following day in order to tour Belle Haven. After meeting up at your office, we walked  along the well-kept streets while Ben shared some of his experiences with the community; calmly strolling through a neighborhood on a sunny day while viewing properties is not a typical experience when searching for a new home. After touring several, I stepped into one particular unit and realized I was home. Ben walked me through the particulars before we parted. Later that day, he met with me a second time, well after working hours, to show the unit to my skeptical wife. She eagerly concurred and five days later, we signed the lease--beating out several other applicants largely because of how well-prepared our package was. Ben's relaxed and informative approach was a sea-change to the aggressive apartment-pushers usually lurking in real estate and is a great credit to your business and profession. Further, his stance made it more than clear that he wasn't merely looking to push someone into a vacant unit: he was assisting a new neighbor. Please convey my very great appreciation for his hard work and dedication. If you'd like to post this message anywhere online, please feel free; I only ask that you omit my last name for privacy.
Sincerely, --Jeremy
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.

What type of dwelling do I want to buy?

Single-family house at 5610 Justis Pl, Alexandria, VA 22310
Single-family house at Glenwood Park is in Alexandria 22310
To start a home search, beginning with a certain type can narrow results. For example, selecting  a townhome moves towards different features than a garden style condominium, such as a townhomes potential for cozy levels and easier to maintain grounds than that of a Belle Haven property. On a different end of the spectrum is a luxury high rise which can boast scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Preferences can play a big role in finding a home that correctly aligns with the occupants lifestyle, such as that of a metro commuting corporate employee seeking a moderate Montebello dwelling versus that of a distant Springfield contracting handyman whom might prefer something with access to materials such as Lowe's, and Home Depot and a quieter location like that of Newington. Additionally, a type selection can make it easier to determine a neighborhood location. Some might prefer a townhome near a shopping center while others may weigh water accessibility as more desirable, such as a Potowmac Crossing condominium. Furthermore, I have seen that once the move has occurred, getting acquainted can be an endearing process of increasing familiarity with a region. Some might love to settle into a Bucknell Cape-Cod, due to the detached ruggedness and the suburban appeal, while others might prefer the shopper friendly location of a Kingstowne townhome with easy entrance to 495.

Properties in Bucknell Manor

2201 Harvard Dr

Welcome to your charming 3 bed, 2 bath Cape Cod-style home nestled in the heart of Alexandria! This inviting property offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and character. Step inside a thoughtfully designed layout with a main level bedroom and a full main level bathroom providing both accessibility and flexibility. With hardwood floors exuding a warm ambiance and bathed in abundant natural light, the main living area invites you to unwind and embrace relaxation. Located on the main level, the desk area offers a convenient and accessible workspace for various tasks and activities. Situated within easy reach of the main living areas, it provides a centralized hub for productivity, organization, and day-to-day operations without the need to ascend stairs or venture to other levels of the home The well-appointed kitchen features modern amenities, a central kitchen island and ample storage, making meal preparation a breeze. Whether you're whipping up a quick breakfast or preparing a gourmet feast, this kitchen is sure to inspire your culinary creativity. Conveniently situated adjacent to the kitchen, the attached garage offers seamless access for ease in transporting groceries and household items directly from the car to the heart of the home. Ascending to the upper floor, you'll discover two spacious bedrooms thoughtfully positioned alongside a fully equipped bathroom. This arrangement offers privacy and comfort for residents or guests occupying these rooms, with the convenience of having a dedicated bathroom nearby. Whether it's for family members, visitors, or a combination of both, this layout ensures a harmonious blend of functionality and comfort on the upper level of the home. Venture outdoors to your private backyard—a spacious backyard patio awaits, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. From tranquil mornings sipping coffee on the patio to lively barbecues under the stars, this outdoor retreat is sure to become your favorite spot to unwind. Situated on a corner lot, this home boasts curb appeal and privacy, creating a serene sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. With a Metro station just moments away, commuting couldn't be easier, offering convenient access to all that Alexandria and the surrounding areas have to offer. Don't miss your chance to make this delightful Cape Cod-style home your own. Schedule a showing today and start envisioning the possibilities! Newer HVAC and control System. [Bucknell Manor - $705,000]   SOLD!

6818 Duke Dr

Open House 11-2 Saturday & Sunday February 17 & 18. Assumable VA loan at 3.5%! Don’t miss this charming cape cod on an extra wide almost quarter acre lot. Brand new kitchen with waterproof luxury vinyl plank flooring, white 42-inch shaker cabinets, sparkling quartz counters, and new stainless appliances including a gas range, dishwasher and microwave. Refrigerator 2022 and front load washer/dryer 2023. Brand new neutral plush carpeting over hardwood floors throughout the rest of the house, plus fresh paint. Main level bedroom and full bath plus 2 spacious upper-level bedrooms (one with a built-in dresser and sitting area) and another full bath. Bathrooms refreshed. All windows except living room replaced. Off street driveway parking plus a double parking pad. Fully fenced yard, 2 storage sheds and patio. Verizon FIOS available. One year home warranty for buyer’s peace of mind. Prior to an unexpected move, owners were planning a 2-story addition. Blueprints and plans which cost over $5,000 convey. Located on a quiet street, this home is close to an abundance of shopping, dining and entertainment choices, including nearby Old Town Alexandria and National Harbor. Convenient to major commuter routes and the Huntington Metro. For those looking for exercise, the proximity to parks, plus the Mount Vernon Trail, makes this the perfect location for walking and cycling. Welcome home! [Bucknell Manor - $620,000]   SOLD!

6725 Quander Rd

Coming soon! Stunning, fully renovated 3-level Cape Cod in Bucknell Manor with top-of-the line upgrades throughout! Enjoy charming curb appeal, a functional floor plan with tons of storage, and a private landscaped lot with a brand-new fence. This light-filled charmer will not last long! All new white shaker kitchen cabinets, with quartz countertops, designer backsplash, and new stainless-steel appliances. Bathrooms have been fully renovated with floor-to-ceiling tile in bath/showers, new vanities, and Delta fixtures. The hardwood floors have been professionally refinished and show beautifully. Throughout the house, you will find new doors, handles, trim and fresh paint. The asphalt roof is between 3-5 years old, 2012 gas furnace, 2014 410a Ref. air conditioning, 2021 hot water heater. Easy access to Old Town, Huntington Metro Station, National Airport, and downtown DC. Stroll or bike to the Mount Vernon District Park, Belle View Shopping Center (grocery store, wine and craft beer bar, gas station, bank, pharmacy, post office, restaurants, and more), or Belle Haven marina – all less than 2 miles away! This is the one! [Bucknell Manor - $775,000]   SOLD!

6843 Radcliffe Dr

Welcome to your dream home that offers a perfect blend of timeless charm with original hardwood floors and contemporary upgrades. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the peace and quiet, as thoughtful construction and design ensure minimal noise transfer between units. Fully upgraded kitchen featuring granite countertops, stylish backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances including a gas stove and ductless range hood. Upstairs you will find two bedrooms with oversized closets and full bath and downstairs a fully finished walk out basement (could be used as 3rd bedroom) with its own closet, custom under the stair storage, full bathroom, and laundry area with deep sink. Additionally, access the attic with ease through the convenient pull-down ladder, providing even more storage options. Step outside into your own private oasis! Experience the charm of lazy afternoons on your covered front porch. Perfect for sipping coffee, enjoying a good book, or simply soaking in the neighborhood ambiance. The large fenced yard with covered carport area provides a secure and spacious retreat for outdoor activities, entertaining guests, or just relaxing in the fresh air. The expansive driveway accommodates up to 4 cars. Location can not be beat with easy access to restaurants and shops. Easy commuting to Old Town Alexandria, DC, military installations, and 2.5 miles to Huntington Metro. Roof: 2018 Appliances: 2019 HVAC: 2021 Hot water heater: 2022 [Bucknell Manor - $490,000]   SOLD!

2023 Rollins Dr

Open house on 1/28 cancelled. Beautiful, move-in ready three-bedroom duplex in the popular and convenient Bucknell Manor neighborhood. Enjoy a light-filled main living area with hardwood floors and a dining area with easy access to a newly refinished and painted deck. The kitchen has newer appliances - dishwasher (2020), refrigerator and oven (both 2017). The wonderfully usable backyard has endless entertainment and outdoor living opportunities, with nice and level ground with a wooden privacy fence and a newly painted shed. Upstairs, there are two sunny bedrooms with hardwood floors and an updated full bath (new flooring and paint, newly refinished tub and tiles). New ceiling fan and light in the secondary upstairs bedroom. The finished basement boasts a private walkout entrance and second full bath, as well as a laundry area with newer stacking washer/dryer unit. This versatile space can be used as a third bedroom (the owners installed an egress window to have it legally count as a bedroom), a rec or gym area, office space, playroom or even a rental opportunity with the private entrance. The owners have made several significant and thoughtful improvements and updates to the home: new roofing and siding, HVAC, tankless water heater, windows, and laundry and kitchen appliances, as well as waterproofing the basement, adding an accessible clean-out tee in the attic, new water main and interior hose bib shut offs, new basement bathroom sewer pipe and new outdoor underground drainpipe from the sump pump to the street. The Bucknell Manor neighborhood has no HOA and a coveted location in South Alexandria. Ample parking in the driveway for up to 4 cars. Exceptional access to Old Town Alexandria, Potomac Yard, DC, Fort Belvoir, Mount Vernon, the GW Parkway, the Mount Vernon Bike Trail and Huntington Metro, along with several nearby restaurants, shops, and parks like White Oak Park, Fort Hunt Park and West Grove Dog Park. [Bucknell Manor - $502,500]   SOLD!

6909 Radcliffe Dr

Discover the charm of this 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom beautifully renovated semi-detached home in Alexandria. Just minutes from the historic allure of Old Town, this inviting residence offers a comfortable and stylish living experience. The remodeled kitchen offers stainless steel appliances , quartz countertops and modern touches. Enjoy the warmth of hardwood floors from the main level all the way up to the fourth level. Gorgeous bathrooms with frameless glass doors. The walkout basement adds a flexible living space, including a bedroom and a full bath. This corner lot offers a huge fully fenced front yard and a newly landscaped fully fenced back yard, both perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. Roof, windows, floors, and all the systems only 5 years young! Experience the convenience of proximity to great restaurants and shopping, close to all the major commuting routes, making this home a perfect blend of comfort and lifestyle. [Bucknell Manor - $545,000]   SOLD!

6727 Quander Rd

RARE 3 level Cape Cod in Bucknell Manor (1 of only 17). Enjoy charming curb appeal, a functional floor plan with tons of thoughtful storage, an abundance of natural light throughout the home and a picturesque and private landscaped lot with raised planter beds. An additional 720 SF gives you versatile space for an additional family room, space for exercise, plus a dedicated laundry and utility room with additional storage. Oversized Bay window by Thompson Creek is the focal point on the main level, hardwood floors throughout, thoughtful built-ins and design throughout. The updated kitchen includes gas cooking, Granite countertops, and Stainless-Steel appliances. Because laundry is in the basement, this kitchen is larger than other models giving you additional cabinet and countertop space. Outside you have a private back yard with a 25 X 15 Flagstone patio for all your entertaining needs, an Amish built 12 X 8 shed, a 2-car paved driveway. Recent upgrades include: 2023 Hot Water Heater, 2020 HVAC, 2020 New Bay Window. Easy access to Old Town, Huntington Metro Station, National Airport and DC. Stroll to the beloved local restaurant The Haven and Custard Shack. One block to Mount Vernon District Park which has a system of trails. Belle View Shopping Center is just .5 mile away and is a one-stop-shop for most daily needs (Grocery store, gas station, bank, pharmacy, post office, restaurants, and shops)! [Bucknell Manor - $715,000]   SOLD!


Aubrey NesbittAbout the Author --- Aubrey Nesbitt is a native of Northern Virginia who attended Virginia Commonwealth University. He is a veteran of the US Army and helps his family business by providing informational articles like this one. In addition to photography and blogging, Aubrey provides administrative support for the office.

Why Alexandria?

Across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. lies Alexandria, Virginia. For some, the fact that it is just a river’s cross away from the national capital adds to the appeal that establishing a home in Alexandria offers.
on the boardwalk in Alexandria
At the Torpedo Factory and Potomac in Old Town
However, a closer look at the areas available in Alexandria will show that this city has more to offer, with a certain ambiance made to fit the tastes of those seeking a suitable residence – whether they’re gearing more towards the classic or the modern. Alexandria originated from Old Town and this particular location, situated right beside the Potomac River, has the classic ambiance of a riverside town and has quite a charming array of waterfront restaurants, shopping areas, condominiums, houses, and of course, townhomes. Some of the best deluxe condos and townhouses can be found in Old Town, including Rivergate Townhouse and the Torpedo Factory Condos to name a few. While Old Town sports the charm and benefits of being the original Alexandria, Kingstowne competes through its modern fixtures, brought about by thorough planning and careful implementation. This modern housing suburban area offers a variety of homes, townhouses and a couple of garden condo compounds, not to mention plenty of community parks and fields. In conclusion, if you’re looking for classic old school simplicity, Old Town has that charm. Either way, Alexandria offers something to fit everyone’s needs and tastes. For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.

Do you need a brand new kitchen?

Montebello kitchen
original kitchen at Montebello
One of the biggest questions every condo buyer and home buyer has to ask is, "How much work am I willing to take on?" Some folks want a turnkey residence. Some folks want a residence that has brand new modern appliances and cabinets. Some people want appliances and cabinets that have never been used. Some people don't mind an older kitchen. Some people like the feel of a kitchen that was put in long ago. Others like an older kitchen because they like the idea of ripping out the old and putting in the new. It can be very gratify---not to mention financially rewarding---to completely remake a residence.  As a homeowner, or condo owner, you are the ultimate authority. It is your domain to decide what will stay and what must go.  This can be a lot of fun.
kitchen
Brand new kitchen at the Eclipse
But, remodeling can be a lot of work.  Living through the dust and the inconvenience can be a hassle. If you don't know where to turn to, it can also be very expensive.  But no matter how you personally resolve the issue, it's important to consider before you actually start shopping.

Georgian style residences

Georgian
Georgian
Befitting a king--in fact, the style is named for four King Georges of England--Georgian homes are refined and symmetrical with paired chimneys and a decorative crown over the front door. Modeled after the more elaborate homes of England, the Georgian style dominated the British colonies in the 1700s. Most surviving Georgians sport side-gabled roofs, are two to three stories high, and are constructed in brick. Georgian homes almost always feature an orderly row of five windows across the second story. Modern-day builders often combine features of the refined Georgian style with decorative flourishes from the more formal Federal style. For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.
Georgian
Georgian style residence

Why choose a condo?

Watergate at Landmark
Watergate at Landmark
People choose condominium life for a number of reasons. Some condos are less expensive than a traditional single-family house. Additionally, many condos have added amenities and facilities which an individual cannot afford on his own. Most condominiums have amenities you won't find on a similarly priced single family residence. For example, a typical condo has (at minimum) a pool, a work-out room, and party room. A similarly priced house would not enjoy these amenities. Another benefit of condo living is that owners share in the burden of maintenance and lawn care. This means that some of the exterior maintenance and lawn care is provided by the condo association and the expense of that care is part of your monthly condo fee. Many older condos have utilities included in the price of the condo fee. In new condos it is more typical to share the cost of water, but individually pay for other utilities. Condo life in some ways is simpler for active lifestyles. Many condo owners choose condo life because they love life and they don't want to be bogged down with maintaining a lawn or cleaning gutters. A condo owner can walk out the back door and enjoy a dip in the pool while the other guy is spending time writing checks to pay his utilities.

Properties in Clarendon

For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.

Taxes Are Tricky for Second-Home Buyers

Purchasers of second homes should be aware that, according to the IRS, taxpayers who are married and filing jointly can’t deduct interest on more than a combined total of $1 million of “home acquisition debt” for a primary and a secondary residence.
Torpedo Factory entrance
Entrance to the Torpedo Factory condos on a snowy day
Taxpayers also may deduct up to a combined total of $100,000 of home-equity debt on their first and second homes. After refinancing, a home owner can only deduct interest on the original amount of the loan at the time they refinanced, plus $100,000. Buyers and refinancers also can deduct loan fees – "points” – if the money was used to buy or improve their home. They can’t deduct them if they refinanced to lower the interest rate. Source: Inman News, Tom Kelly (04/07/2010)
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