Lorton VA Real Estate - Lorton Homes for Sale - Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Laurel Crest, and Laurel Highlands

Lorton is a charming community located just south of Springfield in northern Virginia's Fairfax County.  In recent years, Lorton VA real estate has undergone considerable growth and development making it the perfect place to buy your next condo, townhouse, or single family home.

Lorton homes for sale range from single and multi-level condominiums to a beautiful selection of luxury townhouses and single family homes.  If you are looking for your next dream home, Lorton has many upscale communities from which to choose.  One of Lorton's most prominent communities is Lorton Station.  Lorton Station is a 300 acre, planned community comprised of approximately 950 homes.  Lorton Station is just under a 30-minute drive to Washington, DC.  Lorton also houses the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) commuter train station for ease of commuting to areas in and around Washington, DC.  The closest metro station to Lorton is the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station, which is less than 15 minutes away.

Other popular neighborhoods in Lorton include Laurel Hill, Laurel Crest, and Laurel Highlands.  If you are considering purchasing your next home in Lorton, you are certain to find an array of homes to suit your needs.  To browse a list of available homes in Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Laurel Crest, and Laurel Highlands, please click the preceding link.  To browse the complete list of homes available throughout the Lorton area, simply follow the links below.  

        

        Lorton homes for sale

        Lorton condos for sale

        Lorton townhouses for sale

        Lorton single family homes for sale 

For questions regarding the listings or to schedule a showing, please feel free to call, text, or email me for assistance.

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com

            

Kingstowne Alexandria Single Family Homes Market Report

Kingstowne is a popular Alexandria suburb located just 15 minutes south of Washington, DC.  Kingstowne is home to a beautiful selection of single family homes with plenty of amenities to please the select buyer. 

The library of single family homes currently available for sale in the Kingstowne area (zip code 22315), range from a moderately priced 2BR, 2BA home to a large 7BR, 4BA home at roughly twice the price.  If you are looking for the perfect single family home, Kingstowne-Alexandria has many homes from which to choose.  To browse a list of Kingstowne area single family homes available now, please click the preceding link. 

Kingstowne Alexandria Single Family Homes Update: As of 9/25/11, there are 31 single family homes for sale in the Kingstowne area.  Home prices range from $329,000 to $799,990.  Since 1/1/11, a total of 51 single family homes were sold in the Kingstowne area, including 3 short sales, 7 foreclosures, and 41 regular home sales.  The average sales price for the 51 homes sold was $546,265.  The average number of "days on market" was 46.

During the same time period in 2010, a total of 55 single family homes were sold in the Kingstowne-Alexandria zip code of 22315.  These homes included 3 short sales, 6 foreclosures, and 46 regular home sales with an average sales price of $560,370.  The average number of "days on market" was 34.

Comparing statistics for homes sold in 2011 with 2010, the number of units sold in 2011 decreased by 4 units.  The number of short sales remained the same, and the number of foreclosures increased by a single unit in 2011.  The average price of homes sold is separated by $14,105 with the higher number of averaged sales reported in 2010. However, a slight increase in the number of units sold was also reported in 2010 and a slight increase in foreclosures was reported in 2011.  Finally, the number of "days on market" increased from 34 days in 2010 to 46 days in 2011. 

Year	Units Sold	Short Sales	Foreclosures	Regular Sales	Average Price	DOMM
2011	51	3	7	41	$546,265	46
2010	55	3	6	46	$560,370	34

Overall, the market for Kingstowne-Alexandria single family homes appears to be relatively stable.  The number of homes sold and the price of homes available for sale in 2011 is roughly the same as in 2010. For prospective homeowners interested in buying a single family home in and around the Kingstowne-Alexandria area, now is the perfect time.  Interest rates remain at record lows and home prices appear to be stabilizing.  If you have been thinking about buying your next single family home in the Kingstowne area, why not get started today before home prices begin to rise.  Call 703-298-6546 or email me to get started now!  

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com

            

Alexandria VA Short Sales - 102 Active Short Sales in Alexandria VA

Interesting in buying a short sale in Alexandria?  As of 9/21/11, there are102 active short sale listings in Alexandria.  Currently, there are 70 short sale listings in Alexandria's Fairfax County and 32 short sale listings in the City of Alexandria.  

If you have been sitting on the fence waiting to buy your next home in Alexandria, why not check out the latest list of short sale properties available now!  This list contains everything from starter homes to luxury condos, townhouses, and single family detached homes.  If you would like to own a home in Alexandria at an affordable price, now is the time to invest in homeownership. 

To preview a complete list of Alexandria short sales as of 9/21/11, simply follow the link to browseAlexandria VA short sales now.  If you have questions regarding the listings or would like to schedule a showing, call 703-298-6546 or email me anytime.

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com

           

Island Creek Homes for Sale - Alexandria VA Homes for Sale

Island Creek is a very popular subdivision located in Alexandria, Virginia.  Island Creek is home to a fine selection of condos, townhouses, and single family homes all strategically located within a 5-minute commute to Fort Belvoir.  If you are interested in buying a home in Alexandria and/or relocating to Fort Belvoir, Island Creek has the perfect blend of condos, town homes, and single family homes from which to choose.  Island Creek is also located within minutes from Alexandria's well-known community of Kingstowne.  Here you will find an assortment of shopping, eateries, and even a movie theater to enhance your living experience.

Island Creek homes range from single and multi-level garage condos to large, luxurious town homes and single family detached homes.  If you are searching for the perfect home in Alexandria, why not check out the beautiful selection of homes available in Island Creek.  The community offers many amenities including a club house, pool, basketball court, tennis court, bike trails and more.  To preview a list of homes currently available in Island Creek, simply click the link to browse Island Creek homes for sale now!

Transportation:  The closest metro station to Island Creek homes is the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station.  The Van Dorn Street Metro Station is also located within a 10-15 minute drive from homes in Island Creek.  For added convenience, the area also provides access to several commuter buses and is minutes away from Interstates, 95, 395, and 495.

Schools: Interested in learning more about the school system in Island Creek?  No problem! Students living in Island Creek are zoned for the following Fairfax County schools: Island Creek Elementary School, Hayfield Middle School, andHayfield High School.  For additional information on the school system in Fairfax County, please visit theFairfax County Public Schools website.

  

For additional information on homes for sale in Island Creek, simply call or email me for assistance.

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com

            

 

Kingstowne Condos - Eton Square Condominiums Market Report

Kingstowne Condos - Eton Square Condominiums Market Report

Eton Square Condominiums is located in the popular suburban community of Kingstowne.  Kingstowne is one of Alexandria'smost sought-after communities located just 15 minutes south of Washington, DC.  Eton Square Condos offer two separate community entrances divided by the well-known Kingstowne Boulevard. 

The first entrance to Eton Square Condos is directly across the street from the Kingstowne Shopping Center near Safeway.  The second entrance to Eton Square is across the street from the Toys-R-Us Shopping Center.  The single street that separates Eton Square Condominiums from the two shopping centers is Kingstowne Village Parkway.  You can't miss it!

Eton Square is a garden-style condominium community with single and multi-level units.  Each unit is rich in architectural design showcasing the epitome of elegance and sophistication you deserve.  If you are considering buying a condo in Kingstowne, Eton Square Condominiums is the perfect place to call home! 

Eton Square Condo Market Report:  From January 1, 2011 -  August 31, 2011, a total of 7 condo units were sold in Eton Square.  There were 3 foreclosures and the remaining 4 units were regular condo sales.  The average price of the units sold was $237,486. 

During the same time span in 2010, a total of 13 condo units were sold including 1 foreclosed unit and 1 short sale.  The remaining 11 units were regular condo sales.  The average price of the units sold was $276,895.

Comparing data from 2011 and 2010, Eton Square has experienced a 46% decrease in the number of condo units sold.  In addition, the number of short sale units have decreased by 100%.  Although the number of foreclosures in the neighborhood has increased by 66%, the average price per unit sold is on the rise and is expected to remain strong through the end of 2011.  This data clearly shows that condo prices and homeownership in Eton Square is well on its way to stabilization.

Schools:  Eton Square Condominiums is located in the Fairfax County School District.  Students living in the Eton Square community attend the following schools: Franconia Elementary School , Mark Twain Middle School, andEdison High School.

Public Transportation:  Eton Square Condominiums is strategically located within minutes from theFranconia-Springfield Metro Station and the Van Dorn Street Metro Station.  The area also provides access to several commuter buses and is just minutes away from Interstates 95, 395, and 495. 

  

If you are interested in buying a condo in Eton Square, call or email me for assistance.  For additional information on condos available in Eton Square, Kingstowne, and Alexandria, please see the links below.

• Eton Square Condos for Sale
• Kingstowne Condos for Sale

• Alexandria Condos for Sale

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com

            

18 Things to Consider Before Buying a Home in Virginia, Maryland or Washington, DC

I recently spoke with a prospective client regarding the possibility of buying a home in and around the northern Virginia area.  From this conversation, I realized that living in and around northern Virginia can mean different things to different people.  Some people describe it as living in the northern most cities in Virginia such as Alexandria, Arlington, Springfield, or Falls Church.  Others describe it as living in Virginia, Maryland or Washington, DC. 

For those who describe it as the latter, here are a few things to consider before deciding whether to buy your next home in Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, DC.  While house hunting can be very exciting, it can also be exhausting if you do not have a definitive course of action.  Thus, here are 18 things to consider in order to make the most effective use of your time.

Price:  Everyone has a maximum price point.  Regardless of your income bracket, you will have a maximum loan qualification amount and a maximum amount that you would like to spend on housing per month.  Although these amounts may differ, it is important to speak with your lender as soon as possible to determine your price points.  Taking this very important step will be extremely helpful in narrowing down your desired locations.

Amenities:  After determining your maximum price point, it is necessary to evaluate your list of amenities.  Begin by making a list of everything you would like in your new home.  Next, you should prioritize the items on the list.  Armed with a definitive price point and your list of "must have" amenities will help to narrow your decision to one definitive state and minimal locations within that particular state.  

Location:  Now you must prioritize your locations.  Having a definitive price point and a list of desired amenities can help you make this determination.  Your REALTOR® can assist you by sending you a list of available properties that match your desired price point, amenities, and location.  If you choose a location and there are no available properties that match your desired price range and amenities, you must then decide which of the three factors (price, amenities, location) is more important to you and begin altering the factor that is of least importance.

Housing prices:  Housing prices are at their highest in DC and VA depending on the areas selected.  MD's housing prices are less costly than DC or VA. 

Real estate taxes:  Real estate taxes are higher in MD than in DC or VA. Of the three locations, VA has the lowest real estate taxes.

Salaries:  DC employees have the highest salaries followed by VA and MD. 

Public transportation:  There is a variety of public transportation options throughout VA, MD, and DC.  Regardless of your home's location, there is sufficient public transportation access to suit your needs.

Schools:  The quality of the school systems in the tri-state area vary depending on the city or county of location.  For specific information on schools in the tri-state area, please visit the school or county website. 

State and local taxes:  MD residents pay higher state and local taxes than residents in VA.  In most cases, DC residents pay lower taxes than residents in MD and VA.

Sales tax rates:  VA sales tax is 4% with a maximum of 5% after local surtaxes.  Cities and counties in VA can charge an additional 1% local sales tax.  MD and DC have a sales tax of 6% with a maximum of 6% after local surtaxes.

Vehicle registration fees:  Vehicle registration fees in VA are $40.75 per year; in MD $64 per year; and in DC $72 per year.

Personal property taxes:  VA charges its residence a personal property tax on all vehicles.  MD and DC do not levy personal property taxes on cars.

Gasoline tax rates:  VA has the lowest gasoline tax rate at 17.5ȼ per gallon.  MD and DC gasoline taxes are slightly higher at 23.5ȼ per gallon.

Technology:  VA leads the tri-state area for the most technology-based firms.  MD and DC are relatively close with MD edging slightly ahead of DC.

Alcohol:  VA has a much higher tax on alcohol than does MD or DC.

Water:  Water usage is priced higher in DC than in VA and MD.  DC charges the same rate regardless, while VA and MD charge reduced rates based on consumption.

Night life:  DC dominates the party scene followed by MD and VA.  If you are interested in late night restaurants and movie theaters, you will find them both throughout the tri-state area.  For plays and concerts, DC is the predominate host but VA and MD have them as well.

Crime statistics:  For current information on crime rates in VA, MD, or DC, please contact your local police department.

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Alexandria, Lorton, Woodbridge or any of the surrounding areas in northern Virginia and Maryland, please contact me for assistance.  My specializations include first-time home buyers, home sellers, luxury homes, short sales, foreclosures, relocation, and divorce.   

Lisa Dunham, MBA, CDPE, ABR, ePRO 
Allison James Estates & Homes 
703-298-6546 (Mobile) 
Lisa@LisaDunham.com
www.LisaDunham.com