Category: Leesburg Real Estate

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By Krasi Henkel

Ranch-style homes have been a popular choice for decades thanks to their practical single-story layouts and flexible spaces. While some home buyers may overlook older ranch houses in favor of newer construction, these modest homes actually offer great opportunities. With some creativity and wise investments, you can remodel a ranch house on a budget.

The Benefits of Buying an Older Ranch:

  • Mail level primary bedroom(s)
  • Mature trees and landscaping
  • Established neighborhoods
  • Lower property taxes
  • Good value per square foot
  • Flexible floor plans
  • Hardwood floors or solid mid-century materials

The Blank Canvas:

BEFORE
AFTER

The simple shapes of ranch homes make them perfect blank canvases to incorporate modern style. Minor changes can make ranch homes feel fresh and new without blowing the budget. Consider these economical updates:

  • New paint in contemporary hues
  • Swap dated lighting for streamlined fixtures
  • Replace builder-basic kitchens and baths with IKEA systems
  • Refinish hardwood flooring hidden under outdated carpeting
  • Knock down walls to create open-concept spaces
  • Add an addition
Kitchen Before
Kitchen After
Primary Bath Before
Primary Bath After
Entry Before
Entry Construciton
Entry After

The above photos were a joint project with Anders Hurd – Faber Custom Builders, Inc. The project was incredibly successful and the property sold to the first buyer ho saw it!!

Big Style for Small Budgets

You don’t need expensive materials to give a ranch home an interior facelift. Use these design insider tips:

  • Shop for unique vintage details
  • Use bold wallpaper or paint instead of new cabinets
  • Stain concrete floors for an industrial look
  • Upgrade windows and patio doors even if you keep other structural elements

The single-level living and unused basement or attics in ranch homes present opportunities for expansion or converting unused areas into rental units for extra income.

Addition to a ranch home provides tall, open spaces with abundant views

Take a fresh look at older ranch houses. With an updated exterior paint color, strategic refreshes indoors, and your own custom vision, you can personalize a home to suit your needs and style for less than you might expect. The charm and practicality of ranch homes continue to win over buyers who see their outstanding potential.

One of my favorite ranch homes in a subdivision that I have sold many ranches and that I love to walk my dog!
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Embarking on the journey to homeownership can be a daunting task, especially for those who might need a little extra help to turn their dream into reality. The Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors (GCAAR) curated a list of financing opportunities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. This guide aims to make the American dream possible for potential homebuyers by highlighting various programs designed to provide financial assistance:

Chenoa Fund (National):

   – National down payment program offering up to 5% toward down payment and/or closing costs.
  – Available for both FHA and conventional mortgages.
  – Funds come in the form of a second mortgage loan, potentially forgivable in some cases.
  – Accessible through approved lenders. (chenoafund.org)

City of Takoma Park’s Down Payment Assistance Program (Takoma Park, MD):

   – “The Home Stretch” program providing $10,000 for down-payment assistance.
  – For income-eligible, first-time homebuyers.
  – Requires completion of a homebuyer education course and a certified inspection.
  – First-come, first-served basis.
  – Website: takomaparkmd.gov

D.C. Open Doors with Down Payment Assistance (D.C.):

   – Offers deferred repayable loans for a down payment and below-market interest rates for first trust mortgages.
  – Eligible for both first-time and repeat homebuyers.
  – Down-payment assistance in the form of a deferred 0% non-amortizing loan.
  – Website: dchfa.org/homeownership/available-programs/dc-open-doors

Employer-Assisted Housing Program (EAHP) (D.C.):

   – Offers eligible District government employees a deferred, 0% interest loan and matching funds grant.
  – No income cap or cash contribution requirement.
  – Maximum purchase price of $765,600.
  – Website: dhcd.dc.gov/service/employer-assisted-housing-program-eahp

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 3.5% Loan (National):

   – Good option for individuals with credit issues (minimum eligible credit score is 580).
  – FHA loan amount tops out at $970,800.
  – No requirement to be a first-time homebuyer.
  – Website: hud.gov/buying/loans

Federal Housing Loan Bank Down Payment Assistance (FHLB DPA) (D.C., MD, VA):

   – Down-payment assistance grant of up to $10,000 for eligible homebuyers.
  – Available in the District, Maryland, and Virginia.
  – Website: fhfa.gov

With an array of financing opportunities at your fingertips, homeownership is within reach. Take advantage of these programs and turn the key to your dream home.

Our team is dedicated to support you every step of the way. Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today and explore these financing opportunities to make your dream home a reality. Our expert team is here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect financial solution tailored to your needs.

Information is provided from the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®. “Unlocking Your Dream Home: A Comprehensive Guide to Financing Opportunities.” GCAAR Housing Booklet. gcaar.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/102623-gcaar-housing-booklet–single-pages.pdf, Accessed 01/23/2024. Please note that the information provided is deemed to be up-to-date as of the publication date but cannot be guaranteed. Real estate financing programs may undergo changes, and it is advisable to verify the latest details with relevant authorities or financial institutions.

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By Krasi Henkel

As opinions have currency in real estate, the cultured credibility offered by a home library can sway buyers and add significant value to a house. Though e-readers and digital books are common, there remains strong appeal to the tangible permanence and character of print books lining built-in shelves.

More than a storage place for novels and non-fiction, the home library represents intellectualism and refined tastes which many affluent buyers seek in a residence. Beyond superficial decor, an elegant library signals the substance of both current and past owners. It communicates that interesting dinner conversations, music, and art have filled those rooms.

Built-in bookcases hold special weight over stand-alone shelving. They demonstrate forethought in the home’s original design and construction and cannot be easily moved or changed on impulse like furniture. As integral house features, custom built-in bookcases can add 10-15% of their initial cost to listing prices. Their fixed nature also means volumes collected over years remain on display.

The permanence, personalization, and intellectual substance embodied in a home library comprises a unique asset. For buyers seeking both image and lifestyle, rooms of books can add eight to fifteen percent in perceived worth…or perhaps prove literally priceless among competing listings.

In showcasing owners’ sophistication, libraries reveal character that cannot be fabricated. Where furniture and paint colors change on trends, libraries accumulate over lifetimes. They bestow cultured credibility more reliable than passing fashions. For buyers sharing such values, a house with a library makes tangible the intellectual and cultural traditions they wish to perpetuate.

 

If you’re in search of a home with a library, or perhaps a home with the perfect space to build the library of your dreams, we’re here to help! Call Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today.

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One of the most common issues homeowners face during winter is ice damming on roofs. Ice damming occurs when snow and ice accumulate on the roof, causing water to back up and potentially damage the interior of your home. Understanding what ice damming is and how to prevent it is crucial for preserving the integrity of your property. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of ice damming, its causes, and effective prevention measures.

What is Ice Damming?
Ice damming is a phenomenon where ice accumulates along the edges of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. The trapped water can seep into the interior of your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and more. The key factors contributing to ice dam formation include snow accumulation, outside temperatures, and the presence of heat sources within the home.

Causes of Ice Damming

  • Snow Accumulation: Excessive snow buildup on the roof is a primary contributor. As snow melts, the water can pool behind the dam of ice, finding its way into your home.
  • Temperature Fluctuations: If warmer periods cause snow to melt during the day, only to refreeze overnight, ice dams are more likely to form.
  • Heat Loss from the Home: Poor insulation and ventilation in the attic can lead to heat escaping from the home, warming the roof surface. This heat accelerates the melting of snow, contributing to ice damming.

How to Prevent Ice Damming

  • Insulation and Ventilation: Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to maintain a consistent temperature on the roof. Adequate insulation minimizes heat loss from the living spaces, preventing the roof from warming and promoting snowmelt.
  • Snow Removal: Safely remove accumulated snow from the roof using a roof rake or hiring a professional to clear the snow for you. Clearing the snow before it turns into ice reduces the risk of ice dam formation.
  • Sealing Gaps and Leaks: Identify and seal any gaps, cracks, or leaks in your roof. This prevents warm air from escaping and minimizes the chances of ice dams forming.
  • Professional Inspection: Schedule regular inspections with a professional roofing company to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Professional advice and maintenance can go a long way in preserving your home.

Protecting your home from ice damming is essential for maintaining its structural integrity and preventing costly repairs. If you’re concerned about your roof’s vulnerability to ice dams or need help finding professional assistance to address the issue, Properties on the Potomac is here to help! Give us a call at 703-624-8333.

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With a new year here, many of us are making plans to move or upgrade residences. 2024 is likely to see a lot of pent-up demand for housing changes. When planning a move, there are some key things to consider — one major consideration is moving your belongings from one property to another. It’s easy to underestimate how much you have accumulated until you have to pack it up! Proper planning and preparation are essential for a smooth move.

Interview and Vet Potential Movers Thoroughly
If you’re going to hire movers, spend time interviewing several companies. Ask detailed questions about how many people they will send, what packing materials they use, their techniques for safely packing and transporting special items like pianos or delicate cabinets; their process for labeling boxes;  and their overall track record. Check online reviews. Understand exactly what they will and will not pack. You want to avoid surprises or having your items packed haphazardly, and worse, damage

Key Questions to Ask Prospective Moving Companies

Here are 5 must-ask questions (aside from pricing) when interviewing potential movers:

  1. How many people will you send for packing/loading/unloading?
  2. What packing materials and techniques will you use for both general items and fragile items?
  3. How will you label boxes so I know what room they should go in?
  4. What is your track record and reviews for packing/moving services?
  5. What exactly will you pack vs. not pack (e.g. open food, plants, etc.)?

Sort, Purge and Organize Your Belongings
Go through all of your closets, storage spaces, the basement; anywhere items have accumulated over the years. Sort seasonal items and pack away off-season things you will not need right away. This is the perfect opportunity to purge and donate anything you no longer want or need. Donate unopened boxes from previous moves – don’t bother opening them since you have not needed those items – let those go. Make a placement plan of what rooms items will go and how you will use them, so that boxes will be placed in the right rooms. If you cannot place an item or find a use for it in your new home, let it go.

Planning Will Save You Stress
Moving is extremely stressful. However, with detailed planning, purging/organizing ahead of time, and vetting your movers thoroughly, it can go much more smoothly.

For advice on prepping your property for sale or finding your next home, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 — we’re happy to help and discuss options. Wishing you all the best with your 2024 move!

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The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better time to infuse your home with warmth and coziness. Whether you’re hosting festive gatherings or creating a tranquil retreat for your family, here are some tips to make your home feel like a cozy haven during the holidays.

Warm Lighting: Replace harsh overhead lights with warm, soft lighting. Consider adding string lights, candles, or festive lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft lighting can instantly transform the mood of a room, making it feel more intimate and cozy.

Layered Textures: Incorporate plush blankets, fluffy pillows, and soft rugs to add layers of texture to your living spaces. Not only do these elements make your home visually appealing, but they also provide physical comfort, making your space perfect for holiday lounging.

Cozy Nooks: Create cozy nooks throughout your home with reading corners or seating areas adorned with warm blankets and cushions. These designated spaces offer a perfect escape for relaxation or quiet moments during the busy holiday season.

Seasonal Scents: Embrace the power of scent to evoke holiday memories. Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or potpourri with fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla. The right scents can create a warm and inviting ambiance, making your home feel like a festive retreat.

Festive Decor: Infuse your home with holiday charm by incorporating festive decorations. From twinkling lights and ornaments to wreaths and garlands, decking the halls can instantly lift the spirits and make your home feel like a winter wonderland.

As you bask in the joy of the holidays, it’s also an ideal time to reflect on your living space and consider what truly makes a house feel like a home. If you find yourself dreaming of a new home for the upcoming year or contemplating the sale of your current property, why not turn those thoughts into action?

At Properties on the Potomac, we specialize in turning dreams into reality. Whether you’re looking to buy your next dream home or sell your current property, our team is here to guide you through the process with expertise and care. Contact us at 703-624-8333 today to turn your holiday aspirations into a New Year’s resolution for a new home. Cheers to a cozy holiday season and the exciting possibilities that the coming year may hold!

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By Krasi Henkel, Broker

When asked to draw a house, the image that likely comes to mind is a rectangular box with a triangle roof (probably better than mine) — the quintessential Cape Cod style. This simple, no-frills architectural approach has captivated homebuyers for over 300 years and, due to its popularity, has been placed on millions of Monopoly boards.

The Cape Cod dates back to the early 18th century when early settlers built modest wood-frame homes along the Massachusetts coastline. With its steep roof, central chimney, symmetrical shape and lack of ornamentation, the style embodied frugal values.

Yet over the centuries, the appeal of the Cape Cod has proven surprisingly enduring. Today’s popular “farmhouse chic” aesthetic traces its roots back to these humble colonial dwellings. The modern suburban tract house owes a debt to visionary developers like Levitt & Sons, who revived the Cape Cod in the postwar period as an affordable option for families.

Today, newly built Capes routinely sell for over $1 million, representing a nearly ten-thousandfold price increase from their mid-20th century counterparts. Even modest Levitt homes regularly sell for half million dollars. It seems that this back-to-basics architecture always finds an eager audience.

Perhaps the timeless draw of the Cape Cod lies in its efficiency and practicality. With a spacious great room and oversized bedrooms, the layout perfectly suits modern family life. Its classic façade blends seamlessly into both historic and contemporary neighborhoods.

Whatever the reason, the staying power of this architectural  favorite is clear. As we enter a new year, it’s wise to remember that sometimes, simple is best. Whether buying a home or custom building a new one, the tried and true Cape Cod formula continues to deliver – frills are optional.

If you’re looking for the perfect Cape Cod in the DC Metro region, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today!

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When putting your house on the market, making it appealing to potential buyers must be top priority. An often overlooked but incredibly effective strategy: decluttering. Removing excess items throughout your home not only makes it look cleaner but can also help streamline the moving process.

Why Declutter?

Decluttering does far more than just tidy up – it creates an environment optimized for selling. Here are some of the biggest benefits:

  • Enhanced Curb Appeal: First impressions make or break the deal. Remove clutter from the yard and exterior areas to impress buyers from the moment they drive up.
  • Spacious Interior: Removing excess furniture and other items makes rooms appear more spacious. Buyers can better envision their own belongings in clear spaces.
  • Highlight Home Features: Decluttering directs focus toward your home’s best selling points like ceilings, floors, and fixtures. Remove distracting items to spotlight unique architectural elements.
  • Easier Packing: Decluttering before listing means having less to pack and move. This streamlines your moving process and reduces stress.
  • Audience Appeal: Decluttering creates a neutral canvas that appeals to the widest range of potential buyers.

The Downsizing Process

Decluttering an entire home can feel overwhelming. You may want to consider getting help from a professional organizer and downsizing expert. Their specialized services include:

  • Customized Plans: Every home and situation is unique. Professionals tailor the decluttering approach to match your needs and timeline.
  • Objective Guidance: They provide unbiased input to help determine what items to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Their perspective helps clients make clear choices.
  • Space Optimization: Experts have creative solutions to maximize storage and efficiency in every area from closets to the family room to pantries.
  • Packing/Unpacking Aid: Professionals assist with properly packing belongings for the move, then help unpack and arrange your new home.
  • Stress Relief: Having an experienced specialist handle decluttering reduces the anxiety surrounding your moving process.

By investing in downsizing assistance before listing your home, you not only make the property shine, but also gain peace of mind. A decluttered home opens the door to new possibilities.

Are you planning a move or maybe you’re simply tired of the clutter? Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 to get a referral to one of our trusted experts.

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“How is the market?”

This is our most frequently asked question. It is understandable given low inventory, rising interest rates, and homes often selling for over list price. Real estate headlines can seem daunting. Headlines notwithstanding, our market is still active. Home values climbed at about 3.5% in the first half of this year as demand continues to outpace supply.

The key to this market is being an educated buyer or seller. Now more than ever, working with the right agent is critical. Selecting a savvy, experienced agent who will give you expert guidance will make all the difference in this competitive market.

Our proven systems help our clients find the right homes and make the best offers. Our success speaks for itself. We leave no details to chance. Our sellers optimize their properties to attract the most qualified buyers who are ready to move quickly.

Today’s most successful real estate agents are taking advance reservations from qualified clients. By planning ahead and partnering with a top agent, buyers and sellers can still achieve their property goals, even in this fast-paced market.

Bottom line: real estate remains an essential need and purchases are happening every day. With the right preparation and guidance, your real estate goals can absolutely become reality. The key to our clients’ success are our well-honed systems.

Do you have real estate plans for 2024? Connect with Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 to start strategizing for your next move!

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As we continue to recognize the importance of sustainability in all aspects of life, it’s no surprise that the real estate industry is embracing sustainable design practices. Sustainable design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating homes that are environmentally responsible, energy-efficient, and economically viable.

Here are some key principles of sustainable design in real estate:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Sustainable homes are designed to be energy-efficient, reducing both utility bills and carbon footprints. Features like solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and proper insulation are common elements found in sustainable design.
  2. Use of Sustainable Materials: Sustainable homes often incorporate materials that are eco-friendly, renewable, and locally sourced. This not only reduces environmental impact but also supports local economies. Bamboo and reclaimed flooring are prime examples of sustainable materials.
  3. Water Conservation: Sustainable design includes features like low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and drought-tolerant landscaping to minimize water consumption. Many communities around the DMV are requiring special attention to rainwater runoff to help alleviate flooding. Some builders are opting for rain gardens and/or rainwater collection systems.
  4. Indoor Air Quality: Sustainable homes prioritize indoor air quality with ventilation systems and non-toxic materials. Adding UV or HEPA filters to you home can help improve the air quality, leading to healthier living environments.
  5. Waste Reduction: Construction waste is minimized through careful planning and recycling efforts. Sustainable homes are built with longevity in mind, reducing the need for frequent renovations.

Investing in sustainable design when buying or selling a home offers numerous advantages:

  1. Lower Operating Costs: Sustainable homes often have lower utility bills due to energy-efficient features, making them more affordable in the long run.
  2. Increased Property Value: Sustainable design can enhance your home’s market value, attracting eco-conscious buyers.
  3. Environmental Impact: Sustainable homes reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize environmental harm.
  4. Healthier Living: Improved indoor air quality contributes to better health and well-being for residents.
  5. Future-Proofing: Sustainable homes are built to last and adapt to changing environmental regulations. Current and future buyers will expect homes that last and are able to keep up with the modern requirements thus, helping maintain and build your property resale value.

Sustainable design is not just a trend; it’s a responsible approach to real estate that benefits homeowners, the environment, and future generations. The real estate experts at Properties on the Potomac are well-versed in sustainable design principles and can help you find or market your eco-friendly dream home. Let’s work together to build a greener future, one home at a time. Contact us today at 703-624-8333 to get started on your sustainable real estate journey.