Author: ARLnow.com Sponsor

BoxStar Movers: Reliable and affordable moving services

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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Moving can be a formidable undertaking, whether a local relocation or a cross-country transition. The prospect of packing up your entire life, loading it onto a moving truck, and transporting it to an unfamiliar locale can evoke anticipation, stress, and unease.

BoxStar Movers emerges as a beacon of dependability and professionalism amid these challenges. With a comprehensive array of services and a robust presence in Northern Virginia, Southern Maryland, and Washington, D.C., BoxStar Movers has solidified its standing as a reliable partner for relocation and storage needs.

A Multifaceted Moving Experience

BoxStar Movers stands out by delivering diverse services tailored to meet each client’s requirements. Whether it’s a local residential move, a long-distance journey, or a complex office relocation, the company possesses the expertise to manage all facets.

Local Residential Moves

Transitioning within the same city can be just as demanding as moving across state lines. BoxStar Movers alleviates the pressures of local residential moves by orchestrating a seamless process from start to finish. Their adept team comprehends the nuances of navigating urban neighborhoods and ensures the secure transport of your belongings to your new residence.

Long-Distance Moves

For those embarking on extended journeys, BoxStar Movers offers a trustworthy solution. Boasting a well-maintained fleet of trucks and a team of seasoned drivers, the company guarantees your possessions safe and timely arrival at the intended destination. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction are evident throughout every mile they traverse.

Office Relocations

Office moves come with challenges — the imperative of minimizing disruptions to business operations, the delicate handling of sensitive equipment, and coordinating a multifaceted transition. BoxStar Movers’ proficiency in office relocations shines as they adeptly manage logistics and execute a seamless move that curtails downtime.

Packing Services: Save Your Time

The packing phase marks the inception of your belongings’ safety and security. BoxStar Movers’ packing services are designed to alleviate the stress of this pivotal stage. Their team of adept packers employs industry-leading practices to ensure your items are meticulously packed, mitigating the risk of damage during transit, and from delicate glassware to voluminous furniture, your possessions are in capable hands.

Storage Solution: Secure Storage for Your Belongings

In a dynamic world, storage solutions play a pivotal role.

BoxStar Movers offers secure storage options when you require a temporary abode for your belongings. Whether amidst transitions, streamlining your possessions, or necessitating additional space, their cutting-edge storage facilities furnish shelter until you’re prepared to retrieve your items.

Coverage Area: Where Reliability Meets Trust

BoxStar Movers caters to an expansive coverage area encompassing Northern Virginia, Southern Maryland, and the heart of the nation — Washington, D.C. This far-reaching reach exemplifies their dedication to being a dependable ally for individuals and businesses within some of the most vibrant regions in the United States.

Customer-Centric Approach

What truly sets BoxStar Movers apart is their customer-centric approach. They recognize the distinctiveness of each move and invest time in comprehending your specific needs. From the preliminary consultation to the ultimate placement of your items, their team is committed to ensuring your moving experience unfolds smoothly. Their scrupulous attention to detail, transparent communication, and unwavering commitment to top-tier service have garnered them a devoted clientele.

Conclusion

Moving transcends mere transportation of possessions; it embodies the commencement of a new life chapter. BoxStar Movers acknowledges this sentiment and strives for a seamless, stress-free transition. With their extensive spectrum of services — encompassing local residential moves, long-distance relocations, office transfers, packing expertise, and storage solutions — they’ve firmly established themselves as a trusted authority in the realm of relocation.

Their presence in Northern Virginia, Southern Maryland, and Washington, D.C. further solidifies their status as a dependable choice for those seeking an untroubled moving venture. As you embark on your journey to a new destination, entrust BoxStar Movers with the logistical intricacies, permitting you to focus on the exhilaration ahead.

If you want to learn more about BoxStar Movers, you can visit their website, www.boxstarmovers.com, or call them at 202-843-9181. They would happily answer any questions and help you plan your move.

Statutes of Liberty: Just married? Getting a green card is harder than you think

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Doran Shemin, Esq., and Janice Chen, Esq., practicing attorneys at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Falls Church, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact us for an appointment.

Just married! There’s just one hitch: no proper immigration papers. What should you do now?

Everyone says that your new bride (or groom) should get a green card without any difficulty. But you’re worried. You’ve looked at the forms — oh, those forms! — and they look… difficult. You’re worried about making a mistake. What should you do now?

The sensible answer is to call a lawyer, but I’m going to point you in the direction of the appropriate forms so you can DIY this if you really, really want to. Please call a lawyer, though. It’s in your own financial interest. Lawyers get paid by the hour — except for our firm, which has helpful flat fees. Whether you pay flat fees or by the hour, it takes many delightfully lucrative hours to get you out of trouble after you finish your DIY Document Demolition Derby.

I enjoy crushing beer cans against my forehead, so obviously I don’t want a lawyer. What should I do now?

Assuming you are eligible, you file a long ton of paperwork and supporting documentation. The foreign spouse will be fingerprinted. Six to eight months later, as a matter of current practice, the foreign spouse should receive a work permit. Twelve to eighteen months later, you will both be interviewed by a government official. If that interview goes well, you’ll get a green card. If it doesn’t… well, you’re headed to Immigration Court, which is worse than Double Secret Probation and a heck of lot more expensive.

If you make a paperwork mistake or forget to enclose a supporting document, the government will helpfully remind you of this with a written Request for Evidence. Even if you respond instantly, a Request for Evidence may delay adjudication of your case by two to three months.

If you mess up your response to a Request for Evidence, the government may (or may not) send you another Request for Evidence. Uncle Sam is fully within his rights to keep your application fee — a cool $1,760 — and tell you to try again. You should have hired a lawyer the first time.

I don’t care! I think this situation absolutely requires a really futile and stupid gesture on somebody’s part! Let’s do it!

If you’re going to DIY this, you should read these forms (and their accompanying instructions) very carefully. Any immigration lawyer you speak to should be able to tell you what these forms are, in coma-inducing detail, without opening his laptop. If he can’t, enjoy the free coffee and walk away.

  • Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
  • Form I-130A: Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary
  • Form I-131: Application for Travel Document
  • Form I-485: Application for Adjustment of Status
  • Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
  • Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
  • Form I-864: Affidavit of Support under Section 213A of the INA

I gave my love a cherry that had no stone. Does that prove that we’re married?

The government knows that cherries have stones and chickens have bones. So, how are you going to convince the government that your love story has no end?

Amateurs think that the answer is photographs. It isn’t. Rank amateurs think the answer is boudoir photographs. That really, really isn’t. (You think I’m kidding? Once a year, like clockwork…)

Professionals know that the answer is commingling of finances. Joint monthly bank account statements, joint leases, joint tax returns, life insurance policies, health insurance policies, wills, utility bills, a family cell phone plan. Get it all together. Make a table of contents. Use tabs. Government adjudicators really appreciate tabs.

There were blanks in that gun. I didn’t do anything!

Has your spouse ever committed any crime at all, even one that was not prosecuted, even one where the record was later expunged? Stop and call a lawyer. You can be put into removal proceedings for stealing a candy bar. (Not our client, but we have seen it with our own eyes.)

How did your spouse get here? We treat people who crossed the border very, very differently from people who overstayed visas. If your spouse walked across the border, stop and call a lawyer.

Did your spouse do any side work while on a visitor visa? Did your spouse ever use questionable documents? Ever apply for asylum? Ever have a driver’s license issued under questionable circumstances? You know what to do. Let’s do it!

As always, we welcome your comments and will do our best to respond.

Your guide to this year’s DC Jazz Festival!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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Brace yourself for a soulful start to September as D.C.’s largest jazz festival returns for its nineteenth year.

Beginning August 30 through September 3, the annual DC Jazz Fest invites the region’s residents and visitors alike to enjoy an extraordinary lineup of jazz musicians — from globally renowned superstars to emerging homegrown talent — through 100+ concerts at 30 venues citywide.

Settle into the late summer and spend your Labor Day weekend the soulful way with District Frays guide to this year’s DC Jazz Fest.

Small Business Focus: Let’s talk about e-mail

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

While small business owners communicate with their customers and stakeholders in numerous ways, e-mail continues to be a popular communication method. Thus, it’s essential that your e-mail is secure and represents your business well.

Since its inception in 2002, BizLaunch has helped over 80,000 clients start, grow or scale their businesses. Often, communicating with clients via e-mail using an address such as [email protected]. While there is nothing wrong to use a free e-mail service for personal use, you should think of your e-mail as your business card, and it should match your website domain, for example [email protected].

Let’s face it, anyone can use Gmail, AOL or Yahoo, and that’s the problem. By using a more generic e-mail, you’re missing the opportunity to add credibility and to personalize to your business. Additionally, these free e-mail providers aren’t necessarily free; remember those terms and conditions you agreed to but didn’t read?

For companies to provide free e-mail service, many sell these e-mails causing many small business owners to receive an enormous amount of spam, possibly missing essential messages from prospective clients, updates on grant applications and other important communication sent via e-mail. Additionally, since anyone can purchase these e-mails, small businesses are targets for phishing attacks putting vital information at risk.

The good news is that creating a customized e-mail is very affordable and straightforward. At BizLaunch, we like the easy button, and there are two simple ways businesses can easily customize their e-mail domain.

Arlington small business owners can apply for our ReLaunch program, and our tech experts at Nub8 can create a customized e-mail domain for your business. Many clients have already received this as part of their project scope with Nub8.

Businesses can quickly and affordably get a customized e-mail through Google Workspaces or Microsoft 365 if you prefer to do this yourself. Both services make it easy for clients to set up a customized e-mail, and data is stored securely in the cloud — able to be accessed on any internet-connected device.

The first step in securing your customized e-mail is purchasing a domain name. There are numerous places businesses can buy domains; however, since your business domain is essentially your digital billboard, here are some tips for selecting a domain name from our partner, Score.

While e-mail continues to be widely used, it’s essential that your e-mail address represents your business well and is secure. For support getting a customized e-mail contact your BizLaunch advisor today.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of August 14, there are 118 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 144 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 22 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

5723 8th Street N.

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.

Car recently exposed to high water? Get it checked without leaving home

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

If you’re concerned that recent excessive rain has damaged your car, let us help.

Whether you need help arranging a tow, a jumpstart, or want to take advantage of the free valet pick-up and return; get peace of mind. Stop wasting hours of time getting your time waiting to have your car diagnosed. Discover the time-saving hack that is CarCare To Go and see why so many people are leaving reviews like the one below.

CarCare To Go brings modern convenience and simplicity to car repair. They combine the quality and trust of a full-service shop with a uniquely transparent process, plus free valet pick-up and delivery from your home or work.

Great experience — the valet service was professional, kept me posted on timing, and took excellent care of my car. The service center was transparent, high-tech, and informative (they provide videos and up-front estimates). I was able to work a full day, review my service, pay for it and receive my car, without ever leaving home. Highly recommend it! –– Julia M.

CarCare To Go is offering first-time clients an oil change for just $20.23. No catch. Synthetic or blend for any make or model car. Just enter coupon code FIRST20 when you book.

Of course, CarCare To Go does much more than oil changes and new tires. They are a full-service shop that does everything from brake pad replacements to the most complicated engine replacements. Plus, life-changing details that leave your car feeling brand new.

You’ll wonder why you ever took care of your car any other way.

Ask Eli: Second half of year better for buyers

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!

Question: Is it better to buy a home in the second half of the year?

Answer: The second half of the year is almost always easier on buyers than the first half. With the exception of 2020, when we had a delayed spring market because of COVID lockdowns, nearly all market metrics improve in favor of buyers in the second half of the year. The only issue… it gets harder to find what you want because listing volume drops significantly.

The table below compares first half market data to second half market data, and I’ve calculated the change of each year’s first half to second half market metrics. A few quick notes about the data:

  • I did not include 2020 because it was not a normal market due to COVID lockdown during the spring/summer
  • Net Sold = Sold Price less any Seller Credits
  • The data is based on when a property was listed (first half or second half of the year), not when it closed, so we can have a true indication of market metrics based on when a property hits the market

Prices Drop in Second Half, Not as Much as Data Suggest

The data point that most people will focus on is the drop in average net sold price from first half to second half with an average decrease of 4.8%. This is a combination of buyers being able to negotiate more and home values actually dropping and less expensive homes being sold in the second half than first half. So yes, market values weaken in the second half, but they are not dropping by 3-7% like the data suggests.

Buyers Negotiate Much More in Second Half

A great metric is the second column, the average net sold to original ask percentage which shows how much buyers are negotiating (or paying more) relative to the initial asking price. On average, buyers are negotiating 1.1% more off the original asking price in the second half of the year compared to the first half. Last year it changed by 3% when interest rates spiked at a historically fast pace from late spring through the fall and the market did a 180.

Sellers Giving More to Secure Deals in Second Half

In transactions that included a seller credit (seller paying buyer closing costs), buyers negotiated an average of 8% more in seller credits in the second half compared to the first half.

Market Significantly Slower in Second Half

From 2015-2022, the number of homes going under contract in the first ten days decreased by an average of 22.3% in the second half of the year to an average of 37% of homes selling within ten days compared to 48% in the first half of the year. The average days on market for homes listed in the second half of the year increased by 26.8%.

Buuuutttt… It’s a LOT harder to Find What You Want

The number of homes hitting the market for sale decreases by 1/3 from the first to second half of the year, making it much harder to find that perfect home. What I usually advise clients is to focus on the first half of the year if you’re looking for the perfect home and focus on the second half of the year if you’re looking for value.

Market Differences Within the Second Half

The market also differs within the second half of the year, with July/August slowing significantly from the preceding months, followed by a pop in supply and demand after Labor Day, until really slowing down for the holidays in November/December.

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.

Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.

Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C A

Save this summer with limited-time specials at The View Alexandria

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy life at The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM.

Nonprofit and faith-based, Goodwin Living has been supporting, honoring and uplifting the lives of older adults since 1967. Nestled in the hills overlooking Washington, D.C., in Alexandria’s West End, The View Alexandria is the newest member of the Goodwin Living family of senior living communities and healthcare services.

Summertime… and the Living Is Easy

This summer, residents are making the most of the maintenance-free lifestyle that allows them to do all the things they want to do — and none of the things they don’t. They mingle at outdoor barbecues, enjoy sun-filled strolls in the gardens, cool off with an iced drink on the patio, savor seasonal meals in our restaurant-style dining room and take in the breathtaking views of Washington, D.C. in the climate-controlled comfort of our rooftop lounge.

Enjoy Special Limited-Time Savings

This vibrant independent lifestyle is made more affordable by a value-based, no-commitment rental contract. And this summer, living at The View Alexandria has become even more affordable with a special promotion.

Simply become a resident of The View Alexandria by August 31, 2023, and you’ll receive 50% off the community fee — valued at $3,210!

After you move in, the seasons to follow will be even more exciting, as incredible updates and renovations are being made to the campus.

Learn more about our special limited-time incentives at 703.382.1469 or TheViewAlexandria.org.

Neighborhood Spotlight: What’s new in Clarendon in 2023?

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Clarendon is a vibrant neighborhood that effortlessly combines youthful energy with sophisticated charm.

The allure lies in its unique ability to cater to a diverse population. Young professionals explore lively night scenes, while established residents appreciate its refined offerings. You can enjoy a night out at a great bistro or take a leisurely stroll through its tree-lined streets, soaking in the elegance of the older buildings.

From classic colonial designs to modern condos, Clarendon’s housing stock is quite diverse! Clarendon’s historic roots and its blend of architectural aesthetics truly make it a living history book. It’s not just about houses; it’s about homes that tell stories!

Among Clarendon’s charming eateries you’ll find an intimate atmosphere at Screwtop Wine Bar, delectable delights at Bakeshop, and the inviting ambiance of Green Pig Bistro. These local gems contribute to the sense of community that Clarendon is known for. Supporting local businesses is not just a trend here; it’s a way of life!

If you are thinking of buying a home in the DMV area, Clarendon offers something really special. It’s incredibly easy to live here — a place where memories are made and lives are truly enriched.

My husband and I — along with our rescued pittie Spencer — love life in Clarendon. It’s been our home for over two decades. Walking just a few blocks to our favorite restaurants like Circa, Cava, and Screwtop Wine Bar is a dream. We both love the theater and are thrilled that the Kennedy Center and Signature Theater are so close.

Two of our favorite annual events are Clarendon Day where we can check out local artists, foods, and music — and the Armed Forces Cycling Classic Bike Race is always exciting as a spectator!

Get in touch with me to learn more about Clarendon’s unique offerings and explore the remarkable homes here! 

Alyssa Cannon | 703-585-8167 | [email protected] | www.alyssacannon.com | www.McEnearney.com

Links and Recommendations

For 40 years, McEnearney Associates has been a premiere residential, commercial and property management firm with 11 offices located in the Washington metro region. With service excellence, hyper-local expertise, powerful data insights, innovative technology and cutting-edge marketing, McEnearney Associates have helped their clients make informed decisions on their most valuable real estate investments. There is an important difference at McEnearney: It’s not about us, it’s about you. To learn more, visit us at www.McEnearney.com.

Three ways the weather is coming for your car

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

When the local temperature is swinging from a sweltering 100℉  to the 70’s and soaking, your car is likely to be struggling alongside you. External temperatures can have a variety of both direct and indirect effects that can be mitigated with routine maintenance, avoiding costly repair or detailing jobs.

Three things to monitor as the seasons and weather patterns change: 

  • Tire pressure: Just as tires lose air pressure as the temperatures drop in winter, tires are more likely to blow out in the summer because they gain about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) pressure for every 10℉ increase in temperature. When traveling around road hazards (nails, potholes, etc.) that makes it more likely a puncture could turn into a tire replacement rather than a patch or repair.
  • Interior seals and mildew: Oh the humidity! If you’re leaving your car for extended periods of time in a humid environment, it can cause water to gather in the rubber gaskets and seals around windows, your sunroof, and even interior components. If you’ve held onto your vehicle for a while, some of those gaskets or rubber tubing may already be dried/cracked and due for replacement.
  • Engine/transmission integrity: Heavy rain or driving in deep water can cause substantial damage to your vehicle. Rain itself can contain corrosive elements (industrial pollutants) that damage your paint job over time. (Getting your car waxed can prevent that damage.) Additionally, water that gathers in the headlights, or that can penetrate your engine compartment through worn seals or submersion can easily cause permanent damage and many thousands of dollars in repairs to ensure your vehicle is driveable and safe.

Save time with CarCare To Go, and take advantage of the End of Summer savings with 15% off on any maintenance or repair service when you book by August 15, 2023 or take advantage of their first-time client oil change for just $20.23. Visit us online or call 202-980-1480 with questions or to book your service.

With over 600 five-star reviews on Google, see what real customers have to say about their experience:

“Valet pickup in the morning, return in the afternoon with tracking. They keep in touch with progress reports via text or email. Very organized and helpful.” — Elisabeth S.

Woloszyn’s Insights: How to pick a real estate agent

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This is a sponsored column by Joseph Woloszyn Esq. of Maximo Mortgages LLC. Have a question or comment? Contact Joseph at [email protected].

Choosing the right real estate agent can be a pivotal decision in the home-buying or selling process. A good agent can make the transaction smoother, less stressful, and more financially advantageous. Here’s how to select the best fit for your needs.

Identify Your Needs

Before you start your search, outline what you’re looking for:

  • Are you buying or selling?
  • What type of property are you interested in (e.g., residential, commercial)?
  • Do you need someone with local market expertise or a particular niche (e.g., luxury homes, foreclosures)?

Ask for Referrals

Begin by asking friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors about agents they’ve had positive experiences with. Personal referrals often yield the most trusted and tested recommendations.

Check Reviews and Testimonials

Online platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Google can provide client reviews. While not every review is indicative of an agent’s overall service, consistent feedback can give you a clearer picture.

Consider Experience and Credentials

While longevity in the industry can be a strong indicator of expertise, it’s also crucial to consider other factors.

Specializations: Agents might have additional credentials indicating specialization, like CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) or ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative).

Recent Sales: An active agent with sales in the past year is a good sign they’re up-to-date with the current market.

Interview Potential Candidates

Once you’ve shortlisted a few agents:

  • Meet in person or via a video call.
  • Ask about their current listings and past sales.
  • Discuss their strategy for meeting your specific needs.
  • Note their communication style — you’ll want an agent who communicates in a way that makes you comfortable.
  • Inquire about their fees and commissions. Understand what services are included.

Assess Local Knowledge

Local market knowledge is invaluable. An agent familiar with the area can provide insights on neighborhoods, school systems, market trends, and community amenities.

Understand Their Network

Good agents have a strong network of professionals like mortgage brokers, home inspectors, contractors, and lawyers. Their connections can streamline the buying or selling process for you.

Evaluate Their Marketing Strategy

If you’re selling, ask about their marketing plan for your property. This might include:

  • Professional photography
  • Home staging
  • Online listings and virtual tours
  • Open houses

Clarify Communication Expectations

Your agent should be available to answer questions, provide updates, and handle any issues that arise. Set clear expectations about:

  • Frequency of updates
  • Preferred communication methods (e.g., email, phone calls, texts)
  • Availability on weekends or evenings

Trust Your Gut

Finally, trust your instincts. You’ll be working closely with your agent, so it’s crucial you feel comfortable with and confident in your choice.

Conclusion

Picking the right real estate agent is a combination of research, recommendations, and personal comfort. By taking the time to thoroughly vet potential candidates, you set yourself up for a smoother, more efficient property transaction. Whether buying or selling, the right agent can be your biggest ally in the world of real estate.

If you have any mortgage related questions or would like to inquiry about applying for a mortgage, please reach out to us at Maximo Mortgage LLC at [email protected] or 703-755-0045! Happy house hunting!

Joseph Woloszyn Esq. boasts a diverse professional background, including roles as a real estate attorney, mortgage broker, real estate broker, general contractor, and real estate investor. When he isn’t working, Joseph enjoys watching football and taking trips to unwind. In his personal life, he lovingly reports to his two superiors: his wife, Haimei, and their daughter, Elizabeth.

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