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All About District of Columbia Real Estate

By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
What's up with the DC real estate market?  Not much, according to the monthly data just released for June.Here are the bullet points: Weekly showings continue their seasonal decline New contracts dropped significantly following the previous week's bump Median days on market remained flat Median list is down nearly $100k, reflecting a shift in the market to lower-priced homes Price drops returned to the normal range after a spike last week, and the number of cancelled listings dropped slightly. Flummoxed about the ups and downs in the market? You're not alone. Let's get into it:Am I The Only One Confused By The Market Right Now?If you’re asking that question, be reassured that the answer is "No!" Anyone keeping an eye on the market has probably noticed that, despite seasonal trends, this...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
When it comes to buying or selling a home, your choice of real estate agent can make or break the experience. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family upgrading, or an investor offloading property—this guide is your definitive source to find an agent who advocates, negotiates, and delivers results.🔎 Why Choosing the Right Agent MattersMost people don’t realize that hiring a real estate agent is not just about opening doors. The right agent: 💼 Protects your interests legally and financially 🤝 Negotiates powerfully on your behalf ⏱️ Saves you time and emotional stress 📊 Provides deep market insights to price and position the home correctly ✅ Key Qualities to Look For in an AgentBefore you hire anyone, make sure they check off these critical qualities:📍 Local Market ExpertiseYou...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
If you’re searching for a home that embodies modern elegance and urban convenience, the City Center DC condos for sale offer a truly unmatched lifestyle. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Washington, D.C., this luxury development redefines downtown living with its award-winning architecture, sleek design, and walkable access to everything the city has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a downsizing professional, or a savvy investor, CityCenterDC stands out as one of the premier condo communities in the District.What Is CityCenterDC?CityCenterDC is a 10-acre, mixed-use development located between 9th and 11th Streets NW, bounded by New York Avenue and H Street. It’s one of the largest urban redevelopment projects in the country, transforming the site of the old Washington Con...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Explore boutique living in the heart of Old Town AlexandriaIf you’ve been searching for an upscale condo community that blends modern luxury with Old Town Alexandria charm, look no further than The Henry Alexandria. Located just blocks from the Braddock Road Metro and moments from King Street, this sought-after development is ideal for professionals, empty nesters, and investors who value convenience, walkability, and premium finishes. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about The Henry Alexandria—from the available condos for sale to the standout amenities and the lifestyle it offers.Where Is The Henry Located?The Henry is perfectly positioned at 525 N Fayette St, Alexandria, VA 22314, placing residents in one of the most vibrant, walkable corridors of Old Town. Yo...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
 Closed on a Money Pit? What Every New Homeowner Needs to Know  Buying a home should be exciting—but what happens when excitement turns into regret just 24 hours after closing? You’ve signed all the paperwork, moved in your furniture, and suddenly realize… you may have just bought a money pit. If you're facing unexpected repair costs or hidden issues right after buying a home, you're not alone. Many homeowners experience post-closing shock when they uncover problems they didn’t anticipate. Let’s walk through your realistic options, possible legal remedies, and how to move forward smartly when your new home feels like a financial trap.  ---   Can You Back Out After Closing? The short answer is: not easily. Once the sale has closed, the property legally belongs to you. There’s no standar...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
If you've ever wondered how long the average homeowner actually stays in their house before moving on , you're not alone. In the ever-shifting real estate markets of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, understanding homeownership trends is more than just trivia. It’s key to making smarter buying or selling decisions.📊 DMV Homeownership Tenure: Then vs. NowAccording to housing market data and Redfin, the average time homeowners stay in their homes before selling has been steadily rising over the last decade: Year DMV Region (DC, MD, VA) Arlington, VA (Median) ~2014 11.2 years — 2024 13.6 years 7.2 years   In 2014, DMV homeowners typically sold after about 11.2 years. Today, that number is up to 13.6 years, a 21% increase over the decade. In Arlington, Virginia, a hot commute...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
The Washington, DC real estate market continues to move at lightning speed, and for many buyers—and even new agents—it can feel overwhelming. As a young real estate professional based on the East Coast, I’ve seen firsthand just how competitive the DC market has become. Multiple cash offers, bidding wars, and properties selling well above asking price are the norm, not the exception.For anyone buying a home in DC right now, especially first-time home buyers, the experience can be discouraging. I’ve had clients who fall in love with a home, feel comfortable with the list price, and then lose out simply because they aren’t willing—or able—to go significantly above it. Homes are going under contract within days, sometimes just hours. It’s not unusual to see a property listed on a Friday, sh...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
🏢 Why Buying a Condo Isn’t Financial Suicide — And How to Do It Smartly When it comes to buying real estate, condos often get an unfair reputation—especially in online forums. It’s not uncommon to see condos referred to as "financial suicide" or “money pits with shared walls.” But is that really the case? Or is this another case of internet myth overtaking reality?Let’s unpack the pros, cons, and common misconceptions about condo ownership, and explore how to approach the process like a savvy, informed buyer—with the help of a qualified real estate professional.🔍 What’s the Real Deal with Condos?First, let’s acknowledge the obvious: condos aren’t for everyone. But that doesn’t mean they’re automatically a bad investment, especially for a first-time home buyer in DC.Within DC real estate...
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By Shantée Haynes | AHWD, C2EX, Helping the DMV On The Move...
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty | Washington, DC )
If you’ve been quietly lurking on real estate websites, Googling phrases like “how to buy my first home,” “mortgage tips for first-time buyers,” or “what’s included in closing costs,” you’re not alone. The homebuying journey can feel like a crash course in finance, contracts, and stress management—especially if you’re navigating the process solo.Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or just starting to explore the idea of homeownership, here’s what you need to know before you get too deep into the mortgage rabbit hole.For most people, buying a home is the biggest financial decision of their lives. But no one really tells you that it's also like learning a whole new language:pre-approvals, underwriting, closing disclosures, origination fees, escrow accounts, loan-to-value ratios… the lis...
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By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
This bar chart is wild. For the past year, inventory in Washington DC has been climbing, nearing 6 months of supply in May 🚀.The 5 year average for DC real estate supply is 3.4 months.This 10 year chart is even more dramatic:This data would seem to point to a pretty strong buyers' market. So while the number of days from listing to contract has steadily risen this spring, why have DC home prices also gone up? 📈It doesn't seem to make sense.... until you look at the rest of the data and do some simple math.Yes, stubbornly high mortgage rates are preventing potential buyers in many price points from entering the market, but some homes are consistently selling. 💵 Who's purchasing them? Luxury buyers. And nearly half of May sales were all cash.The greatest number of DC homes sold last month...
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By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
Trump promised to release Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from conservatorship and privatize them, retaining the implicit guarantee--not because it benefits consumers--but because it benefits him, and those who supported his political resurrection.Trump's plan for the GSEs will almost certainly end with privatized profits and socialized losses; huge gains for certain private equity firms and wall street, but only a downside for mortgage consumers and taxpayers. Learn why the implicit guarantee will leave taxpayers holding the bag for inevitable bad behavior on the part of Wall Street and mortgage lenders, how private equity players are manipulating policy to line their own pockets, and how key administration figures are paving the path for it. How will the plan impact affordable housing, mo...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
If you’re searching for sophisticated urban living in one of Washington, DC’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Woodley Park Towers offers an exceptional opportunity. Located in the heart of the DC Metro area, Woodley Park Towers combines convenience, comfort, and a dynamic community atmosphere — making it a top choice for buyers and sellers alike. As a local realtor familiar with the DC market, I’m excited to share key insights about this sought-after condominium community.A Detailed Description of Woodley Park TowersWoodley Park Towers is a well-established residential condominium complex situated in the historic Woodley Park neighborhood. Known for its prime location near Rock Creek Park, the National Zoo, and vibrant 24th Street NW, Woodley Park Towers offers residents a blend of serene g...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
If you’re searching for a modern, convenient, and vibrant community in the Washington, DC metro area, Westlight Condominiums stand out as an excellent choice. Located in the heart of Arlington, VA, Westlight offers stylish urban living with easy access to everything the region has to offer. As a local realtor familiar with the DC metro market, I’m excited to share a detailed overview of Westlight Condominiums and why it’s a sought-after option for both home buyers and sellers.About Westlight CondominiumsWestlight Condominiums is a boutique, mid-rise community developed with a focus on modern design, comfort, and convenience. The complex features a selection of thoughtfully designed condos ranging from one to two bedrooms, perfect for singles, couples, and small families looking to enjoy...
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By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
This Isn't 2022's DC Real Estate Market.It's changed. And sellers should, too.You're ready to move on, and you want to sell your Washington DC home quickly... at the highest possible price. But what is that number? Recent data indicates that quite a few sellers are having trouble figuring that out. Last week, home showings in Washington DC dropped week-over-week, but improved from the same week last year The number of new contracts inched up week-over-week, but down year-over-year, and homes took longer to sell Median list price was down significantly year-over-year--and by nearly $50,000. week-over-week Fewer active listings reduced their price than the week and year prior. Sellers now seem to be realizing that overpriced homes have been taking repeated price reductions (called "chasin...
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By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
Fewer Washington DC homes for sale were shown the week ending on May 4th than the week before. There were fewer new listings than the week before. New contracts also dropped--both week over week and year over year--yet the median list price went up.  In fact, it hit $699,000., 1.5% higher than the same week in 2024, and an increase of 0.9% from the last week of April.Two key metrics to watch at the end of this week: Days on market dropped last week, will the decline continue for a second consecutive week? The number of active listings with a price drop fell. Was this due to the large cache of canceled listings last week, or is a trend developing? See all the latest weekly data and follow us for new monthly data releasing next week.
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Condo Spotlight in DC Metro: Stonehall BethesdaIf you're searching for an upscale, contemporary condominium in the vibrant and well-connected Bethesda area, look no further than Stonehall Bethesda. This premier property offers the perfect blend of modern living, luxury, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for homebuyers seeking a blend of comfort and sophistication. As a local realtor, I’m excited to introduce you to Stonehall Bethesda, where exceptional living meets the heart of one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the DC metro area.What is Stonehall Bethesda?Stonehall Bethesda is a high-end condominium community that redefines urban living with a focus on spacious layouts, upscale amenities, and a prime location. Situated just moments from downtown Bethesda, Stonehall off...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Cost of Living in DC What You Need to Know Before MovingWashington, D.C. is a vibrant and historically rich city that draws people from all over the world. Whether you're considering buying a home, relocating for work, or simply exploring your housing options, understanding the cost of living in DC is an essential part of your decision-making process. As a local realtor, I’ve helped many individuals and families navigate the complexities of living in the nation’s capital. In this post, we’ll break down the cost of living in DC, including housing, utilities, transportation, and more, so you can make an informed decision.1. Housing Costs in Washington, DC When it comes to the cost of living in DC, housing is typically the largest factor. Home prices in Washington, D.C. have been rising st...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Uncertainty, federal job layoffs, and a flood of DC Metro inventory—this is the question I get daily: Is now a bad time to buy or sell?As a 21-year veteran realtor, here’s my unfiltered take on today’s market—and why savvy moves can still win.1. For Sellers: This Isn’t 2021—But It’s Not Doom EitherYes, inventory is rising. But let’s reframe: Spring always brings more listings (last year looked similar!). The key is strategy, not panic:Price Smart: Buyers aren’t desperate. Overprice, and your home becomes the “red car” they scroll past.Showcase Your Home: Declutter, stage, and highlight what makes your property unique (e.g., updated kitchens, outdoor spaces).Hire the Right Realtor: Gone are the days of “list it and forget it.” You need a partner who markets aggressively—think professiona...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
If you’re a Loudoun County homeowner, you’ve likely felt the sting of this year’s double-digit tax assessment hikes. I did too—until I fought back and won. Here’s my story, plus how you can secure relief.Here's What I Did:1️⃣ Prepared a Competitive Market Analysis (CMA)Gathered recent sales comps from my neighborhood and surrounding areas.Highlighted discrepancies between county valuations and actual market trends.2️⃣ Submitted a Detailed Appeal:Included the CMA, photos, and descriptions of my home’s condition (no major upgrades).Emphasized neighborhood-specific data to challenge inflated assessments.3️⃣ Persisted After Initial Rejection:The county denied my first appeal.Requested a reassessment with additional comps and a clearer breakdown of market realities.The Result: A Win for My H...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
DC Condo Prices What You Need to Know Before Buying or SellingWashington, D.C. has long been a dynamic real estate market with condo prices that reflect the city's vibrant culture, history, and appeal. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell, understanding the factors that influence DC condo prices can help you make more informed decisions. As a local realtor, I’m here to provide insights into how condo prices are shaping up in the District, and what to expect in 2025.What Drives DC Condo Prices?1. Location, Location, LocationIn D.C., location is everything. Condos in neighborhoods like Dupont Circle, Georgetown, and Capitol Hill tend to command higher prices due to their proximity to work, cultural attractions, and access to top-notch amenities. I...
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