Nestled among the wooded hills of Bethesda, Maryland lies a remarkable architectural treasure that many drive past without recognizing its significance. Carderock Springs, a planned community established in 1962, stands as one of the region’s finest examples of Situated Modernism—where architecture and nature exist in thoughtful conversation.
Developer Edmund Bennett brought his revolutionary vision to life by collaborating with the leading modernist architects of the Capital area, Keyes, Lethbridge, and Condon. What makes Carderock truly special is how each home responds to its specific landscape.
Unlike the cookie-cutter developments of the era, Carderock’s designers let the natural contours of the land dictate which model would be built on each half-acre lot. This approach created a neighborhood where homes appear to grow organically from their surroundings, with clean horizontal lines that echo the woodland setting.
Interestingly, when these homes were first marketed, the term “Mid-Century Modern” didn’t even exist. Instead, brochures highlighted features like “cathedral ceilings,” “indoor/outdoor” living spaces, and “the latest materials”—never once using the word “modern” that collectors now prize these homes for.
The Clubview model, with its dramatic open interiors flooded with natural light, exemplifies the community’s commitment to bringing the outdoors in through thoughtful design. Large windows frame the surrounding trees, creating living spaces that change with the seasons.
Today, Carderock Springs stands as more than just a neighborhood—it’s a living museum of architectural principles that feel remarkably current. As we rediscover the value of harmonious relationships between built environments and natural landscapes, this hidden modernist gem offers timeless lessons in sustainable, contextual design.
Are you looking for your own modernist gem? Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 today!
Just a few miles from Washington, D.C., Del Ray feels like a world away—in the best possible way. Nestled in the heart of Alexandria, this walkable, vibrant neighborhood is known for its welcoming community, colorful character, and undeniable charm. Whether you’re spending the afternoon exploring or putting down roots, Del Ray offers a little something for everyone.
A Culinary Destination with Local Flavor Let’s start with the obvious: the food. Del Ray is a haven for foodies, with Mount Vernon Avenue (affectionately known as “The Avenue”) serving as the neighborhood’s buzzing main street. Here, you’ll find a lineup of independently owned restaurants, cafes, and bakeries that reflect the creativity and diversity of the community. Grab wood-fired pizza and Southern-inspired fare at Stomping Ground, dig into fresh seafood at The Evening Star, or satisfy your sweet tooth with small-batch pastries at Junction Bakery.
Health-conscious? Del Ray has you covered. The neighborhood is home to Alexandria’s “Wellness District,” where smoothie bars, plant-based cafes, and nourishing grab-and-go spots sit alongside yoga studios, fitness centers, and wellness boutiques.
Photo Courtesy: Matthew Harwood
More Than a Food Scene But Del Ray isn’t just about good eats—it’s about good energy. Community is at the heart of everything here. From First Thursdays—a monthly block-party-meets-street-festival filled with music, food, and art—to the beloved Del Ray Farmers Market, this neighborhood knows how to come together. Whether you’re new in town or a longtime local, it’s easy to feel like you belong.
Creative Vibes & Local Pride Del Ray’s artsy side shines through in its vibrant murals, colorful storefronts, and creative businesses. Local artists and makers are celebrated here, and you’ll find everything from handmade goods to curated vintage in the neighborhood’s indie shops. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon a sidewalk chalk masterpiece or live music spilling out of a cafe.
A Place You’ll Want to Return To Whether you’re here for a casual visit, a weekend brunch, or just to take in the community vibe, Del Ray offers the perfect mix of laid-back energy and lively connection. It’s a place where neighbors say hello, small businesses thrive, and the spirit of creativity and collaboration is everywhere.
Thinking about making Del Ray home? With its tree-lined streets, historic charm, and unbeatable sense of community, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with this neighborhood.
If you’re looking for your own Del Ray charmer, we’d love to help. Contact us at 703-989-7452 today to start your journey to calling Del Ray home.
As cherry blossoms grace our beautiful capital, the DC Metro real estate market is experiencing subtle yet important shifts. At Properties on the Potomac, we’ve carefully analyzed current trends to provide you with a comprehensive outlook for the next six months, helping you navigate this evolving landscape with confidence.
Understanding the Market Adjustment
The Washington DC Metro area has always demonstrated remarkable resilience during economic fluctuations, largely due to our unique relationship with the federal government. Recent developments in the stock market, trade policies, and federal workforce adjustments are now creating noticeable ripples across our real estate landscape.
Rest assured—this is not a repeat of 2008. What we’re experiencing is a market recalibration rather than a crash. Most property segments will see modest corrections rather than steep declines, with transaction volume likely decreasing by 10-15% compared to previous years.
Federal Employment Impact
Recent federal workforce adjustments have introduced some uncertainty into our market. However, historically, DC’s government employment tends to stabilize more quickly than private sector jobs during economic shifts.
What’s particularly notable is the neighborhood-specific impact we’re observing. Areas closely tied to certain agencies may experience localized effects, while contractors and supporting businesses might face more significant adjustments than direct federal employees.
Interest Rate Outlook
For prospective buyers hoping for interest rate relief, we recommend maintaining realistic expectations. The Federal Reserve appears committed to its current positions given ongoing inflation concerns, suggesting mortgage rates will likely remain at current levels throughout 2025.
This interest rate environment continues to limit refinancing opportunities while presenting challenges for first-time buyers. Rather than waiting for potential rate drops, we encourage clients to focus on finding value in today’s market conditions.
Inventory Considerations
Despite economic headwinds, housing inventory levels remain historically low throughout the region. New construction continues to face supply chain and labor challenges, though we anticipate a modest inventory increase as some federal workforce shifts occur.
This slight inventory expansion won’t be sufficient to create a strong buyer’s market, but it does present negotiation opportunities that were simply unavailable during the competitive pandemic market.
Market Segment Analysis
Luxury Properties ($1M+) This segment faces the strongest headwinds, with 5-8% price adjustments expected. Properties remaining on the market for 60+ days are becoming more common. However, this creates a genuine opportunity window for financially secure buyers who have been waiting for more leverage.
Mid-Market Properties ($600K-$1M) This segment demonstrates remarkable resilience. Expect price stability with only minor adjustments (1-3%). Properties in premium locations maintain their value better than those in peripheral areas, reinforcing the timeless principle that location remains paramount during uncertain periods.
Entry-Level Homes (Under $600K) Strong demand persists in this segment, though affordability challenges are increasingly evident. While competitive bidding has cooled, well-priced properties continue to move quickly. We’re also noting renewed investor interest as rental demand remains robust throughout the region.
Geographic Insights
District of Columbia Historic neighborhoods like Georgetown and Capitol Hill continue showing remarkable stability, while emerging areas demonstrate greater price sensitivity. The condominium market is adjusting more quickly than single-family homes, potentially creating opportunities for long-term investors.
Maryland Suburbs Montgomery County maintains its reputation for stability, while Prince George’s County attracts increased interest driven by relative affordability. Areas with convenient public transit consistently outperform car-dependent neighborhoods.
Northern Virginia The ongoing Amazon HQ2 effect provides a welcome balance to federal contractions. Arlington and Alexandria maintain strong market positions, while technology corridor growth continues attracting professionals despite broader economic uncertainty.
Strategic Recommendations
For Sellers – Price realistically based on current conditions, not past market peaks – Invest in proper preparation and staging—presentation is increasingly important – Prepare for potentially longer marketing periods – Consider timing relative to federal policy announcements
For Buyers – Recognize the emerging window for negotiation leverage – Focus on long-term neighborhood fundamentals rather than short-term discounts – Secure financing pre-approvals early in your search process – Consider properties with “good bones” that may need updates
For Investors – The rental market remains strong as home purchasing power adjusts – Focus on properties near stable employment centers – Be selective with renovation projects given ongoing supply chain considerations – Plan for longer-term investments (5+ years) for optimal returns
Our Perspective The Washington DC Metro real estate market is experiencing an adjustment period rather than a crisis. Our region’s fundamental economic strengths remain intact despite short-term challenges. The coming months will reward strategic buyers and sellers who understand neighborhood-specific dynamics and maintain a long-term perspective.
Have questions about how these trends might affect your specific property or search? Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333for a personalized consultation tailored to your unique situation.
Navigating Uncertainty: Real Estate at a Crossroads Never has the real estate landscape been so contradictory – simultaneously showing signs of strength and vulnerability. Are we facing a boom, a bubble, or an impending bust?
Properties on the Potomac’sKrasi Henkel has accurately predicted the last three real estate cycles from downturns to upswings. Her proven foresight is more valuable than ever in today’s complex market.
While technology floods us with information at unprecedented speeds, we mustn’t forget the human element of real estate – these are decisions about your most significant asset and potentially your largest liability.
Are We Heading for Another 2008? The question on everyone’s mind: Are we reliving 2007, with 2026 poised to mirror the 2008 collapse? Perhaps – but today’s landscape features critical differences:
Severe Housing Shortage: Virginia alone faces a deficit of 300,000-500,000 units
Historic Low Affordability: Homeownership remains out of reach for many
Improved Interest Rates: Creating new opportunities for strategic buyers
Record-High Prices: Pushing market elasticity to its limits
Building Market Pressure: Indicators point toward an inevitable correction
Make Decisions with Expertise, Not Algorithms Should you buy now? Is it time to sell? These questions demand more than automated valuation models and trending hashtags.
With firsthand experience navigating multiple real estate cycles, Krasi has developed a proprietary system to help Properties on the Potomac clients evaluate their options and craft intelligent, personalized strategies.
The bottom line: Don’t trust algorithms alone with your financial future. At Properties on the Potomac, Inc., our agents bring sophisticated understanding of real estate economics, finance, and equity evaluation to every client relationship.
Our singular mission is protecting our clients’ best interests during these uncertain times. For 2025, we have limited availability to welcome new clients. Don’t miss your window to explore your options with true market experts.
Krasi Henkel Transforms Lives Through Exceptional Real Estate Experiences and Services
In the world of real estate, true excellence goes far beyond transactions—it’s about creating transformative living experiences. “My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and profound personal commitment,” says Krasi.
A Legacy of Determination
Krasi describes her early experience, “My real estate story began not in boardrooms or luxury open houses, but in a moment of childhood resilience. At just nine years old, I stood alongside my immigrant parents, challenging the status quo when faced with discriminatory housing practices. When we were told, ‘We don’t sell to people like you,’ I responded by asking what we needed to become to achieve our dreams.”
“The day we moved into our new home was more than a real estate transaction—it was a pivotal moment of hope, opportunity, and the American dream realized. Those early experiences taught me that a home is far more than brick and mortar; it’s a sanctuary where families grow, dreams take root, and futures are shaped,” reflects Krasi.
Leadership and Continuous Growth
As a testament to her industry standing, Krasi currently chairs the NVAR (Northern Virginia Association of Realtors) Small Broker Forum 2025. She is also one of just 25 members selected for the prestigious 2025 NVAR Leadership Institute. Her commitment to professional excellence includes earning a Certificate in Business Excellence from the College of William and Mary and a Master Certificate of Negotiation from Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation.
When not transforming the real estate experiences of her clients, Krasi enjoys life on her horse farm with husband Jon Henkel, who serves as Associate Broker at Properties on the Potomac, Inc. Together they share their home with four horses, four cats, and their beloved Bernedoodle, Sophie. Krasi’s passions include dressage riding, nature walks in her favorite parks, the arts, and writing insightful blogs about real estate, arts, and lifestyle.
Expertise Meets Empathy
With over three decades of professional real estate experience, Krasi brings a unique blend of market expertise and deep personal understanding to every client relationship.
“I don’t just help clients buy or sell properties; I help them curate lifestyle environments that reflect their deepest aspirations,” Krasi explains. “Whether seeking an urban retreat, a suburban community experience, an equestrian estate, or a strategic property investment, I guide clients to clearly identify their true desires before designing customized solutions.”
Having served thousands of clients with billions in real estate transactions, Krasi maintains an exceptional market intuition. She provides timely counsel on when to act decisively, when to pivot strategies, and when patience is the wisest approach. Her track record speaks for itself—she accurately predicted each market fluctuation since 1988 and their subsequent recoveries.
Curious about her current market insights? Contact Krasi for your personalized market report.
The rise of iBuyer or “instant cash offer” programs has introduced a new way for homeowners to sell their properties quickly. These companies, backed by deep-pocketed investors, purchase homes directly from sellers, often closing transactions in just days. Unlike traditional homebuyers looking for a place to live or rent out, iBuyers aim to buy at the lowest possible price, make necessary repairs, and quickly resell the home for a profit. While this model provides convenience, sellers should fully understand the pros and cons before deciding if this is the best option for them.
Advantages for Sellers
No need to make repairs before selling
Flexible options to cater to urgent selling timelines
Guidance from local real estate experts
A streamlined, turnkey process covering:
Contracts
Disclosures
State laws
Negotiations
Disadvantages for Sellers
Instant home purchase offers prioritize the iBuyer’s profit, not the seller’s best interest
Sellers typically receive low offers and still pay high fees, sometimes exceeding traditional agent commissions
The True Costs of iBuying iBuyer platforms operate with the goal of making a profit. That means the offers they make are often significantly lower than market value. On top of that, sellers face additional fees. While iBuyers market themselves as a way to avoid agent commissions, the reality is that their convenience fees range from 6% to 9.5%. Some even charge sellers additional fees that buyers would typically cover, adding another 1% or more to the cost.
In total, the direct costs of selling to an iBuyer—excluding repair credits—can range from 7% to 10%, compared to the 5% to 9% in total costs when selling through a traditional agent. That “convenience” often results in sellers giving up a significant portion of their hard-earned equity.
Repairs and closing costs are another key issue. In a traditional sale, these expenses are negotiable. With an iBuyer, there is no room for negotiation—sellers are simply charged for any necessary repairs. Once the iBuyer acquires the property, they will list it on the market, often for a higher price, within weeks.
Why Using an Agent May Be the Better Choice The primary goal of iBuyers is to make money—not to give sellers the best deal. However, homeowners looking for a fast and hassle-free sale can still achieve that with an experienced real estate agent. Rather than eliminating agents from the process, the key to a smooth and profitable sale is proper preparation and an aggressive pricing strategy.
Before accepting an iBuyer’s offer, consult a knowledgeable real estate professional. Invite an agent to review your net offer from the iBuyer before signing anything. A thorough analysis can reveal just how much equity you might be giving up. If an iBuyer sees your home as a profitable investment, you should take a closer look at your options before handing over your property at a discount.
We break down the numbers in the video below:
Check out this real-world example of a home sale completed with a realtor versus an iBuyer.
As shown in the video, that’s over 10% less than what you could earn from a traditional sale. Is the convenience really worth that much? Your home is likely your largest asset—don’t let an iBuyer take a big cut of your investment.
For more details, check out this article from Realtor.com.
Final Thoughts If you’re considering selling to an iBuyer, take the time to explore all your options. Before signing anything, consult with a real estate professional who can give you a clear picture of your home’s true value and the potential costs involved. You worked hard for your home—make sure you’re making the best financial decision for your future.
If you’re in the DC Metro area, give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 today!
On February 22, 2025, Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA) in Washington, D.C., celebrated their 50th year. We were honored to be a Silver Record sponsor of their celebration. At Properties on the Potomac, Inc., we believe that investing in the arts means investing in our community’s future.
Supporting Artistic Excellence in Our Nation’s Capital
The Duke Ellington School of the Arts stands as a beacon of creative excellence, nurturing the next generation of artistic talent in our nation’s capital. For 50 years this prestigious institution has transformed the lives of countless young artists, many of whom have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their fields. Several students from this year’s graduating class have already been accepted by Harvard and Yale Universities.
Their alumni list reads like the ‘who’s who’ of Hollywood, Broadway, and the world of fine arts and television production. This celebration represents everything we value as a company: excellence, community connection, and the transformative power of the arts.
This year’s Ellington Experience was hosted by one of the school’s most accomplished alumni—acclaimed actor and star of the hit series TheBlack Hamptons, Lamman Rucker. Lamman spoke about his Duke Ellington experience, explaining that his victories and sacrifices made him the person he is today. About his experience being a Duke Ellington alum in Hollywood, he said, “It is literally an industry joke that any show you see on Broadway, any tour that’s touring around the country, any show I’ve opened on multiple sets – and immediately we know all you got to do is say, ‘Duke’ and we noticed that we are everywhere…Whether you are a performer or not, God lives and works through you, too. Not just in the pen or check but how you work, how you live, how you treat other people, and how you let that voice come through…Thank you to all of our board, our sponsors, our staff, our faculty, our leadership.”
Lamman Rucker captivated the audience
Tony-nominated Broadway producer and Ellington alum, Marjuan Canady, shared her enthusiasm and love for the Ellington vision, standards of excellence, and perseverance. Canady addressed the audience, saying,
“I see a lot of familiar faces here. My professors are here and it’s really full circle for me. Now I am a writer, director, Broadway producer, and most recently Hell’s Kitchen…You know, our excellence training, the rigor, the family that’s created here most importantly taught me what it means to be an artist citizen, an artist scholar, and that has gone with me every, every, every role that I’ve been on—thanks to Peggy Cooper Cafritz and Mike Malone. When I was a student here, musical theater was a new program. Some of you might know Corey Hawkins, who is Tony and Emmy nominated, Samira Wiley, Emmy nominated actress…they were all my classmates—they’re so incredible. It was experimental, it was structured but not very strong, and it allowed us to play. It allowed us to grow. It allowed us to make mistakes. And we took all of those gems with us wherever we went. So now, we have artistic directors, we have producers, we’re in all different areas of the industry because Ellington gave that to us and we stayed connected. My quick story is years after graduating college and grad school, I did the whole auditioning and you know, working 3 or 4 jobs hustling in New York as an actor. I started writing, producing my own work…all the things that we were doing here. You taught me how to produce grassroots style right as the organizer, as a cultural worker and as I started, I had these ideas of writing scripts, a story about my own history being a first-generation Caribbean American growing up in the city. So I had this idea to create a children’s story called Cantaloupe Kids. I pitched it to different companies and directors just like they tell you you’re supposed to do and I got rejected—make that hundreds of rejections. So what did I do? I called up my Ellington family. My sister, Crystal, is here who also graduated my year—she was one of my dance choreographers. Some visual arts students were my animators. As business partners all of us got together. It was about 20 of us, just friends, and we said we’re going to do this thing. Two years, three years, still doing it and performing, building all these shows the way that we used to do. And then that’s when PBS Kids called, that’s when the Kennedy Center called, that’s when the Smithsonian called and we were telling black and brown stories for young people to see us. If you are an alumni in this room, not only give but come back.”
Why We Support the Ellington Fund
As Lamman Rucker put it, “We want to be sure that the next generation of visionaries, of creators, of storytellers, of artists, receives the support they need to prove that the arts are more than just entertainment…they are a force for change and a means of expression. That’s all in a world that often prioritizes everything but creativity. But it is our duty to invest in the voices and visions that shape the future. The generosity tonight helps sustain the program’s scholarships and opportunities that allow students to chase their dreams just as I did once. I know this stage well.”
Our commitment to the Ellington Fund stems from our deep roots in the Washington, D.C. community. As a local real estate brokerage, we understand that truly vibrant neighborhoods require more than just beautiful homes—they need cultural institutions that inspire and unite.
The funds raised through this event directly support:
Scholarships for talented students regardless of financial background
State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
Master classes with industry professionals
Performance opportunities that showcase student talent
We Celebrate Artistic Excellence
Together with our community, we ensure that the Duke Ellington School of the Arts continues its legacy of excellence for generations to come.
The Ellington Experience was not just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of what makes our community special. From the stunning student performances to the inspiring student stories, this event punctuates the power of artistic expression to transform lives and communities.
At Properties on the Potomac, we’re proud to play a small role in supporting this incredible institution and the talented young artists who call it home.
Properties on the Potomac, Inc. 