Category: Potomac 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  • Refinish hardwood flooring hidden under outdated carpeting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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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.

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Are you planning to sell your home? Getting your home ready to sell can be an exciting and stressful time. You may be thinking about making updates or whether it’s worth it to stage your home. But one thing you should always consider before inviting potential buyers into your space is the safety of your home, valuables, and personal information. Below are valuable tips on how to keep your home and valuables safe while it’s listed for sale.

1) Secure Your Valuables & Medications: Before listing your home, take an inventory of your valuable items and consider moving them to a secure location. This might include important documents, jewelry, electronics, and heirlooms. If possible, use a safe or rent a safety deposit box at your local bank. Secure any prescription medications in a locked cabinet or drawer. This is both for your safety and to prevent potential theft. Put away any breakables as well.

2) Remove Personal Information: Remove any personal information from your home, including bills, mail, and identification. Identity theft is a real concern, and it’s best to safeguard your personal data.

3) Install Proper Lighting: A well-lit property is less attractive to potential burglars. This is especially important if you have already moved and no one will be living in your home while it’s on the market. Consider installing motion-activated lights around your property, especially in entryways and dark corners.

4) Update Your Locks: Ensure that all locks on doors and windows are in good working condition. Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to monitor and control access remotely.

5) Maintain Landscaping: Trim bushes and trees near windows and entryways to eliminate potential hiding spots for burglars. A well-maintained landscape also gives the impression that the property is actively cared for. Again, this is especially important if your home is empty before selling.

6) Be Cautious with Showings: When scheduling showings, work with your real estate agent to establish strict protocols. Ensure that all potential buyers are accompanied by a licensed realtor. Properties on the Potomac realtors always use tamper proof, electronic lockboxes–that way we can see a log of everyone who has accessed the box and when.

7) Consider Security Cameras: Installing security cameras can provide an added layer of protection. Nowadays, there are affordable options that allow you to monitor your property remotely through a smartphone app.

8) Get to Know Your Neighbors: Your neighbors can be valuable allies in home security. Inform them about your plans to sell your home and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.

Keeping your home and valuables safe while it’s listed for sale requires careful planning and precautions. By following these tips and working with a reputable real estate company like Properties on the Potomac, you can confidently navigate the selling process while safeguarding your home and belongings. Your security matters to us, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Planning to sell soon? Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-623-8333.

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by Krasi Henkel, Broker, Properties on the Potomac, Inc.

In the horse world, there’s no show quite like Dressage at Devon. The iconic showgrounds just outside Philadelphia draw elite competitors from across the nation and globe. To ride in the Dixon arena at Devon is a lifelong dream for many equestrians.

As a Virginia, Maryland, D.C. – based real estate brokerage specializing in estates, land, and horse properties, we were thrilled to secure the last vendor “cottage”  for Dressage at Devon 2023 the last week in September. Having exhibited at weekend expos before, I didn’t initially grasp the magnitude of having a presence for a full week. The concept of a “cottage” also took some getting used to — a simple table and banner would not  represent our commitment to excellence.

In the three weeks leading up to the show, I devoted extensive preparation to designing and outfitting our cottage. I wanted every detail to align with our mission statement’s promise of “impeccable service.” For Properties on the Potomac, that meant creating a space that exemplified sophistication, expertise, and understanding that home is where the heart is. For horse lovers, the heart is where the horses are!

My cottage design process involved drawing scale models and imagining hosting guests in a warm, welcoming environment. I made copious lists and checked off each logistical task from ordering furnishings to packing the truck strategically to get everything to Devon. That diligent organization gave me peace of mind that nothing would be omitted or left to chance.

The day of departure brought chilly rain, making the drive more challenging, but I arrived ready to set up. A missing screwdriver complicated things, but we adapted with a Phillips head key from a lamp box. After two days of assembling the cottage, it matched my vision without excuses. The electric fireplace I chided myself over bringing created a cozy ambiance on the cold rainy days, drawing admirers in from the cold.

The week that followed was filled with industry connections and new friendships. A number of international vendors provided excellent international contacts for me as a Certified International Property Specialist. Covering for each other’s cottages with our neighboring vendors led to pleasant camaraderie.

Promoting our boutique brokerage at a national show enabled conversations with horse owners from across state lines. I presented a talk on horse farm buying considerations, applying my recently printed book, Finding and Buying a Horse Farm.

If I took away just one thing from Dressage at Devon, it was confirmation that person-to-person interactions build relationships in a way websites can’t replicate. Preparing meticulously and sweating the details paid dividends. While a huge undertaking, exhibiting at Devon was ultimately an amazing opportunity to represent our brand and bring the authenticity of impeccable service to the heart of horse country.

If you’re in the market for an estate, land, or horse property, Properties on the Potomac is the right brokerage for you! Give us a call at 703-624-8333 today!