Summer is here and perhaps you’ve noticed the shining sun and all it has to offer!
Solar energy is a renewable energy source and an alternative to fossil fuels. Homeowners with suitable roofs and minimal tree canopy can take advantage of the benefits of lowered energy bills and greener homes by going solar!
Arlington homeowners have multiple options when it comes to rooftop solar, including the Capital Area Solar Switch program, run by Solar United Neighbors, and Solarize NOVA, managed by the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP). In addition to these options, homeowners can reach out directly to a solar vendor for quotes and installation.
Capital Area Solar Switch provides a co-op-like program, where participants sign up and receive a solar installation offer that is lower than market value. This is possible through bulk-purchasing, in which the cost per install is lowered due to high demand. The program requires a $150 refundable deposit before working with the installer.
With Solarize, interested homeowners can sign up for a free solar assessment and, if their home appears eligible for rooftop PV, they will be connected to a pre-vetted installer for inspection and an installation contract. The price model is established before the program opens, meaning the vendors have already been verified, selected, and have agreed upon a fair price.
Review these programs and learn about County permitting requirements here.
There are financial incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act. Learn more about how tax credits can help offset the cost of solar.
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: How was the market for single-family homes in Arlington during the first half of the year?
Answer: All it took was 7% interest rates to stabilize prices… which is exactly what the Fed’s goal was and the Arlington single-family home market is a great example of it working. Coming into the year, there were signs that prices would fall in 2023 if rates remained high, but due to a historic supply squeeze, prices remained stable despite a significant drop in demand (the drop in supply was more significant than the drop in demand).
The data below is based on sales of single-family homes in Arlington during the first six months of the past five years.
Competition Eases, Prices Stabilize
The Arlington single-family market will always be competitive, but the intensity of the last two years has softened and brought some stability to prices:
The average home price increased by 2.3% to over $1,360,000 and the median price increased by 1.7% to $1,220,000. If you remove new construction sales from the data, the average sale price actual decreased by .6% to just over $1,241,000.
Over the past five years, the average home price in Arlington has increased by nearly 27%
On average, homes are selling for just over their original asking price in 2023.
14% of homes sold in the first half of 2023 sold for $2M+ and only 32% sold for $1M or less
If you remove 2020 sales numbers (COVID lockdown), there were 26% fewer sales in the first half of 2023 than the 5yr average. That is almost exclusively due to low supply, not low demand.
68% of sales in 2023 were at or above the asking price, less than 2021 and 2022 but just above 2019 and 2020
64% of homes sold within 10 days on the market, last year it was 74%
Homes that went under contract within one week on market sold for an average of 3.9% over the asking price, in 2022 the average was 6.8% and in 2019 it was 2%.
Zip Code Prices All Over the Place
There was no consistency in average price change across Arlington zip codes:
Note: 22213 only has 8 sales in 2023 so the data isn’t very reliable, I considered not including it
22201 led the way with an 8.9% year-over-year increase
After massive growth in 2021 and 2022, the 22205 zip code had the worst performance, down 8.5% from last year. However, this is not a reflection of actual home values dropping in 22205 by that much, but mostly the make-up of the data set.
22204, the zip code I now call home, remains the only zip code for a third year in a row with an average home price below $1M
22207, the best bellwether for Arlington single-family market conditions, continued its steady appreciation clocking in at 4.2% over 2022 to an average of $1,609,000. Without new construction sales, the average price increased by 1.8% to $1,455,000.
Looking Forward
There is no relief in sight for interest rates, with many rates returning to the 7%+ mark as of last week. Expect a noticeably less competitive, more balanced real estate market in the second half of the year. Buyers will have a better chance at finding value and sellers should level expectations.
The big question is when will rates come down (many expect to see 4-5% in the next 12-18 months) and what will that do to prices. If inventory remains low, which it’s likely to do for years to come, I think that we’ll see another surge in demand and prices when rates break through 5.5-6%. If that coincides with Q1/Q2 of 2024, expect that surge to be amplified. Until then, I expect prices to remain relatively flat with competition light to moderate, depending on the season.
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.
Arlington Travel Baseball (ATB) is a 501(c)3 non-profit youth baseball organization that provides an opportunity for players ages 9-14U to acquire superior skills through higher levels of competition.
ATB is seeking head and assistant coaches who have a passion for the game and want to join a “winning” team. Ideally, we are in search of former college baseball players who want to teach the game they grew up playing.
Coaches will be compensated a competitive wage and required to pass a background check. Coaching experience is a plus but not required and training is available as needed. Coaches will report to the Director of Player Development, who will set team goals and assist with practice plans and specific skills development.
Typical responsibilities include:
Manage the day-to-day field activities of the team. Teaching relevant skills, tactics and techniques.
Arrive on time and have a practice plan for each practice.
Lead the team at all regular season, playoff and tournament games.
Coach in a positive manner (Coaches will have coach of conduct form).
Communicate with Team General Manager with administrative needs of team.
Prepare the players for the physical and mental challenges of competitive baseball.
Identify player strengths and weaknesses and provide progress reports at end of summer season.
If you’re interested or know someone who might be please contact us at [email protected] or call 703-679-7756.
Job details
Position: Youth Travel Baseball Coach Type: Part time Contact:[email protected]
[su_button url=”mailto:[email protected]” target=”blank” style=”flat” size=”8″ center=”yes”]APPLY FOR JOB[/su_button]
The Beltway and surrounding routes hold hazards for the average commute, but in adverse weather, conditions can become challenging and even dangerous. Remember to turn off features like cruise control, slow down, and ensure your brakes are working properly.
As summer storms continue to roll in, ensure that your car is operating in peak condition before you get on the road. Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you drive safely in the rain or adverse weather conditions.
1. Check your tires: Tire maintenance is crucial for safe driving in any weather condition. Start by checking the tire tread depth. Tires with worn-out treads have reduced traction and can cause slippage on wet surfaces. You may need to replace tires with a tread depth of less than 4/32 inches, learn more. Additionally, ensure your tires are properly inflated as over or under-inflated tires may lead to decreased stability and increased stopping distance.
2. Inspect your windshield wipers: Worn-out or damaged windshield wipers can affect visibility during rain or snowfall. Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and replace them if necessary. Streaking, skipping, or squeaking noises indicate that your wipers might need replacement. Additionally, make sure your wipers are clearing the windshield effectively, as poor visibility can be extremely dangerous in adverse weather conditions. Wiper replacement can done at home, or be added to any of your services, but is also included in our customer-favorite “Signature Special.”
3. Check your headlights and taillights: Properly functioning headlights and taillights are essential for visibility in adverse weather conditions. Ensure that all your lights are working correctly and are clean, as dirt and grime can reduce their effectiveness. (Get a Deluxe Detail for $299 that includes exterior wash.) Consider replacing your headlights with brighter, more efficient bulbs to improve visibility. Moreover, make sure to use your headlights even during the day when visibility is reduced due to rain or fog.
4. Test your brakes: Sudden stops and emergency braking are more likely in adverse weather conditions, so it’s important to ensure your brakes are in good working order. Get them inspected regularly, and if you notice any signs of squeaking, grinding noises, or reduced responsiveness, it’s time to have them checked by a professional mechanic.
5. Check your battery: The electrical systems in your car are essential for safe driving, especially during adverse weather conditions. Extreme temperatures and extended use of windshield wipers, defrosters, and lights can put a strain on your battery. Have your battery tested regularly to ensure it’s in good condition, and don’t delay a replacement if needed. Battery not working, or you need a jump? CarCare To Go offers a rescue service that can help get your car to our shop, just give us a call at 202-980-1480.
Remember, the key strategy to driving in wet weather or dangerous conditions is not to panic. Keeping your car maintained and ensuring it’s responsive to your direction as the driver can help you maintain confidence in an emergency.
Build your resume and career knowledge with a graduate certificate!
A graduate certificate from the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University in Arlington, can help you stay competitive in the job market by gaining specialized education and professional development.
Each of the Schar School’s 11 certificate programs include five courses for a total of 15 credits. If you decide to pursue a master’s degree, you can apply these credits. And it’s not too late to apply for the fall semester! The Arlington-based Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University is still accepting applications for graduate certificate and master’s programs on a rolling, space-available basis for domestic applicants.
Join our Director of Admissions and Director of Career Services to learn more about the graduate certificates at the Schar School, application process, and how a graduate certificate could help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Classes are available in-person in Arlington or online. Part-time and full-time study is available, and students typically complete the certificate in one to one-and-a-half years.
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq.
We represent federal employees in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint process before their federal agencies.
This article briefly describes how the EEO complaint process works for federal employees. Keep in mind that each federal agency is different but essentially follows the same rules. These rules can be found at the EEOC website in MD-110. It is important to get legal advice before filing an EEO complaint.
Reasons for EEO Complaints
Complaints of discrimination may be filed by federal employees or applicants for employment with a federal agency when they believe that they have been discriminated against in the workplace because of:
race
color
religion (including reasonable accommodation of religious beliefs or practices)
national origin (ancestry, ethnicity, accent, and/or use of a language other than English)
sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, abortion, and related medical conditions)
sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression
age (40 and above)
parental status
retaliation for prior protected EEO activity (one of the most common complaints)
genetic information
Pre-complaint EEO Process
A federal employee seeking to file an EEO complaint must first contact an EEO counselor within 45 calendar days of the alleged discrimination or within 45 calendar days of the effective date of action.
EEO Counseling Process
When contacted by a federal employee, the assigned EEO Counselor will explain the EEO complaint process and provide a federal employee their rights and responsibilities. The federal employee may choose, at the time of initial contact, to attempt to settle the complaint through the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process.
Formal Complaint Process
If the EEO complaint is not resolved through ADR or at the counseling stage, a federal employee may file a written formal complaint within 15 calendar days of receiving a document referred to as the Notice of the Right to file a Discrimination Complaint.
Acceptance or Dismissal
If a complaint is accepted by the agency (the majority of timely complaints are accepted for investigation) an investigator will be assigned by the federal agency to conduct an impartial investigation of the alleged discrimination claims. An investigator is able to administer oaths to obtain testimony from relevant witnesses and relevant documents.
Investigations and Report of Investigation
An EEO investigator will compile a Report of Investigation (ROI) containing relevant testimony and documentary evidence about the claims of discrimination but does not make any findings in a case. Typically, a federal agency is required to complete an investigation within 180 calendar days of receipt of the formal complaint, with possible extensions available.
Within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI, a federal employee can choose to (1) request a hearing by an EEOC judge (typically recommended); or (2) an agency decision on the complaint (usually not recommended). Other options exist based on the timing of the investigation.
Final Agency Decision
If a federal employee requests a final agency decision (FAD), the agency will issue a decision based on the information in the ROI. This process is not usually recommended because federal agencies rarely find themselves guilty of discrimination. If a federal employee is not satisfied with the FAD, they can appeal further to the EEOC or go to federal court.
EEOC Hearing
The EEOC hearing process is typically the best process for federal employees and usually must be requested within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI. The EEOC hearing process is similar to a civil trial and can include document requests and depositions. Legal representation is critical for the hearing process. After a hearing, the judge will issue a decision, either finding for the federal employee or agency. Such decisions can also be appealed.
Contact Us
If you are a federal employee and in need of legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation.
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.
Our little law office is hiring for two positions: Attorney and Legal Intern (Fall Semester). The details and tips on how to apply are below, in Q&A style.
This could be you. Apply now!
Q: Hiring, eh? How much cash on the barrel?
A: Depends on the position. The Attorney position comes with a starting salary of $69,300, with a small bonus at the end of the year. The Legal Intern position is paid hourly, and the amount depends on your background. (Certain local law schools won’t give you class credit if we pay you. We prefer to pay you, but we can forgo paying you if that’s what you need.)
Q: What? I thought that lawyers dove into piles of gold coins all day, like Scrooge McDuck!
A: It depends. On Wall Street, we are reliably informed that big law firm partners can make more than $15,000,000 per year — more than the bankers who pay them! Immigration lawyers are much more modestly compensated.
Q: Why should I work for you? The salary is competitive with local nonprofits, and many local for-profits pay more.
A: I’m glad you asked. Here are the reasons to work here, one paragraph at a time.
Generous Benefits
We offer extremely generous benefits — better than every local nonprofit, including paid parental leave, 70% of health insurance/vision/dental covered from your first day on, FSA, retirement plan with a generous match — you name it, we offer it!
Easy Commute
Commuting into D.C. is for masochists. Working here isn’t. Our beautiful old office, built in 1870, is in the heart of Falls Church. We have plenty of free parking and a verdant, wooded landscape around our building.
Helping People in Need
Our clients come from all walks of life. Some come from vulnerable circumstances. You’ll work with them, and you’ll make a huge difference for them.
Collegial Environment
We pride ourselves on not running a high-volume operation. You won’t be forced to take cases. Instead, you’ll evaluate cases on your own, and build your own docket within the firm based on your own capacity and interests. We offer both independence and mentorship for new lawyers.
Q: Do you offer Work from Home?
A: No. Why? Because, as noted, we work with many people who come from vulnerable circumstances. These clients are best served by meeting with you in person. We are unwilling to compromise on this point, because, shorn of the verbiage, WFH means telling poor people to go pound sand.
A: For Attorney, we require a bar license and a JD. We’re happy to hire new lawyers. Spanish fluency is a big plus. Immigration experience is, of course, a plus too.
A(2): For Legal Intern, we require that you be enrolled at a local law school. That’s it! We’re here to help with your education and pay you a decent wage.
Questions about the jobs? Ask in the comments. We’ll respond, just like we always do.
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 July 3, there are 131 detached homes, 20 townhouses and 131 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 19 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:
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.
LadyBug Academy — a full-day preschool and daycare opened its new facility at 2500 Wilson Blvd, Suite 100B in Arlington!
LadyBug Academy still has spots available for the upcoming fall 2023 registration.
As a preschool that specializes in providing early childhood education to young children, ages 6 weeks to 5 years old, LadyBug Academy utilizes the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes children’s innate curiosity, creativity and ability to generate powerful ideas.
The teachers are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and hands-on learning environment, where children can actively participate in the learning process, and develop their own understanding of the world around them.
The new Arlington facility has a capacity of 67 children, with onsite parking, and an outdoor playground — becoming an attractive, reliable option for childcare in the surrounding community.
LadyBug Academy started as a small, in-home daycare in North Arlington. Since its inception, Aleksandra Razavi, the owner and founder, has maintained her commitment to providing an enriching and diverse learning environment for children in the Arlington and Merrifield communities. Ten years later, following a tremendous success in Merrifield, LadyBug Academy is accepting enrollment for its third location in Arlington Courthouse.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
By Alex Held
Emmanuela Cosmetics, an Arlington-based skincare brand, is on a mission to empower women to embrace their natural beauty with confidence.
Founded in July 2020 by Yvonne Tazem, this luxury, inclusive skincare brand has been making waves in the industry by providing effective skincare solutions and celebrating beauty in all its forms.
At Emmanuela Cosmetics, the focus goes beyond achieving a flawless complexion. “We understand that skin issues, such as hyperpigmentation, can significantly impact self-esteem,” says Tazem. With this understanding, they have created a range of high-quality, gentle, and effective products that help women feel beautiful and radiant in their own skin.
One of the proudest moments for Emmanuela Cosmetics came in December 2021 when its Glow serum was featured as the #1 product in Vogue Magazine. “Being recognized in Vogue not only showcased the brand’s commitment to excellence but also opened doors to new opportunities,” says Tazem.
As part of those companies, Tazam was looking to expand, and to do so, she partnered with BizLaunch. “BizLaunch played a crucial role in refining Emmanuela Cosmetics’ rebranding efforts. This partnership helped the brand solidify its identity and reach a wider audience,” says Tazem.
Choosing Arlington as the location for her business was a strategic decision for Emmanuela Cosmetics. The vibrant and supportive community, along with the ample resources available for business owners, made it an ideal place to establish their brand. “I particularly appreciate the tight-knit small business community and the unwavering support from local residents,” says Tazem.
However, like any other business, Emmanuela Cosmetics faces challenges. The high cost of commercial rent in Arlington can be a hurdle, but Tazem’s dedication and commitment has allowed her company to overcome such obstacles.
What sets Emmanuela Cosmetics apart from other skincare brands is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients. All products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free and made with non-toxic ingredients. “We take pride in creating a community of women who support and uplift each other, celebrating beauty in all its forms,” says Tazem.
“When not revolutionizing the skincare industry, I enjoy exploring Arlington’s diverse culinary scene. It’s my way to relax and draw inspiration from the vibrant local culture,” says Tazem.
Emmanuela Cosmetics continues to thrive as a small business in Arlington, empowering women to embrace their natural beauty. With effective skincare solutions and a commitment to inclusivity, it is leaving a lasting impact on the industry and helping women feel confident in their own skin.
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!
One of my favorite things about the Arlington condo market is the remarkable views that some of the buildings have of D.C. and the National Mall!
Some of the best Fourth of July fireworks in the country take place on the National Mall and what better place to view them than from your very own Arlington condo!
Today, Jean Ropp, Arlington real estate agent with Eli Residential Group, toured 4 Arlington condo buildings to check out their views of the D.C. Skyline:
Prospect House, 1200 N. Nash Street, was built in 1966 and is located just steps from the Iwo Jima Memorial. The building is best known for its views of the Washington Monument and D.C. skyline.
The Pierce, 1781 N. Pierce Street, completed in 2021, it is Arlington’s newest building for sale. This high-end, luxury building has an average sale price of ~$1.8M and $1,000 per square foot. Part of the price tag comes from the impressive views of D.C. from many of the units, the rooftop terrace and the rooftop pool.
The Odyssey, 2001 15th Street N., built in 2006, is located in the Courthouse neighborhood. This building’s great reputation and excellent amenities make it an Arlington favorite. The views from the rooftop pool and top floor gym are exquisite.
The Waterview, 1111 19th Street N., built in Rosslyn in 2008, is unique because floors 1-15 are a hotel and floors 16-31 are condo residences. The Waterview has its name for a reason! The views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C. are unmatched.
There are other buildings in Arlington that offer superb views not mentioned here including 2000 Clarendon and Clarendon 1021.
Let us know in the comments below which of these buildings you’d like to watch the D.C. Fourth of July fireworks from! If you’d like to tour any of these buildings, you can contact Jean at [email protected].
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.
