Author: ARLnow.com Sponsor

Woloszyn’s Insights: Home renovations

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].

Home renovations represent a significant investment of time, energy, and financial resources, but they also offer many rewards.

They can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your home, boost its value, and reflect your personal style. As varied and expansive as the types of houses themselves, renovations can range from small-scale updates like painting and redecorating, to larger, more complex projects like kitchen remodels, room additions, or even full-house overhauls.

Planning

The key to a successful renovation is thorough planning. Before you swing the hammer, you should have a clear understanding of what you want to accomplish. Will you focus on enhancing functionality, updating aesthetics, or increasing the home’s resale value? Establishing a goal-oriented renovation strategy can help guide your project’s direction and measure its success. During this stage, it’s beneficial to create a budget, bearing in mind the costs of materials, labor, and any unforeseen expenses that may arise.

Design and Inspiration

Once your goals and budget are in place, the next step is to work on the design. This process can be as simple as choosing paint colors and fixtures, or as complex as drawing up architectural plans for an addition or layout change. It’s useful to gather inspiration from home renovation shows, interior design magazines, and online platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.

Hiring Professionals

Depending on the scale of the project, you might need to hire professionals. While DIY has its charms and can save money, certain tasks — like electrical work, plumbing, and structural changes — are best left to the experts. Professionals such as contractors, architects, and designers can ensure the job is done correctly and up to code, providing peace of mind. Remember to ask for references, verify licenses, and get quotes from multiple sources before deciding who to hire.

Timeline and Logistics

Larger-scale renovations may disrupt your daily life, so it’s important to develop a timeline and plan logistics. If you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom, how will you manage during the construction period? Will you need to move out temporarily during a major overhaul? Planning for these disruptions can reduce stress and keep your project running smoothly.

Permits and Regulations

It’s crucial to know if your renovation project requires any permits from your local government. This is especially true for projects that involve changes to the home’s structure, plumbing, or electrical systems. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, delays, and even forced reversal of the work, so it’s best to research and apply for necessary permits before starting.

Materials and Sustainability

When selecting materials, consider their durability and maintenance requirements. You might be drawn to the beauty of marble countertops, but they can be high maintenance and prone to staining. It’s also a good idea to consider the environmental impact of your renovation. Using sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances can reduce your carbon footprint and save on energy costs in the long run.

Completion and Evaluation

Once your project is complete, take time to evaluate the results against your original goals and expectations. If you planned well, you should be enjoying a space that not only looks better but also works better for your needs. Remember, the value in a home renovation lies not only in the increase in home value but also in improved quality of life.

Home renovations can be a rewarding experience, despite the potential for stress and unexpected issues. With careful planning, sensible decision-making, and a dose of patience, you can transform your home into a place that reflects your tastes, meets your needs, and possibly even increases your property’s value.

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.

One day left to engage: Help shape Arlington’s Forestry and Natural Resource Plan today!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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Arlington County seeks feedback on the latest draft of the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan (FNRP).

Our urban forest and natural resources are vital to our well-being, and the FNRP addresses threats from climate change, urbanization, invasive species and more. The draft plan aims to reconnect nature to our daily lives, ensuring a healthy ecosystem for future generations.

Provide your input before the engagement closes on June 30!

Understanding the FNRP:
The FNRP is part of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and embraces holistic natural resource management. It involves the entire community, including government agencies,  developers, residents, and community organizations, in restoring and safeguarding our environment.

Four Strategic Directions:
The FNRP focuses on four interconnected Strategic Directions: Conservation, Climate Mitigation, Adaptation and Resilience, Biodiversity, and Operations. Each direction sets policy goals and actionable steps. By integrating guidance, habitat protection, conservation on private property, environmental justice, and community collaboration, the FNRP creates a plan for a thriving ecosystem accessible to all.

Taking Action Together:
The FNRP emphasizes collaboration, education, volunteerism, and incentives beyond traditional regulation. It recognizes the community’s role in implementing and sustaining the plan, making a positive impact on Arlington’s environment.

The Significance of Deer Management in Forest Health:
Effective deer management is essential for maintaining forest health in Arlington’s County-owned natural land parks. Recent surveys found an overabundance of deer. Without intervention, the overconsumption of plants by deer will harm the local ecosystem and wildlife, including the deer.

Learn more about the deer management project and join us on July 11 for a community meeting at Lubber Run Community Center, or provide feedback online until July 18.

Arts Focus: Family friendly Sunday morning performances at Lubber Run Amphitheater

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

The Free Summer Concert Series at Lubber Run Amphitheater are a summer tradition in Arlington, with some of our region’s hottest bands lighting up the night.

But on Sunday mornings, the Amphitheater offers performances specifically geared towards families and young audiences.

Munit and Z Luvbugs (July 2), an adorable family band born of time spent together during the pandemic, are the next to take the Sunday afternoon stage, led by Ethiopian-born jazz singer Munit Mesfin (with songs sung in English, Amharic and Spanish). Regional favorite Mr. Jon & Friends, (July 9) is a multiple Parent’s Choice Award winning ensemble.

An ongoing partnership between Arlington Arts and Arlington Public Library includes some special co-presentations of Sunday family performances, continuing with Soul in Motion Dancers and Drummers (July 16) who convey African history and culture through their dynamic performance. An infectious blend of Jazz, Funk and Go-Go are the mixture for the Summer’s final co-presentation (August 6) featuring the acclaimed Uncle Devin (August 8), a 2022 GRAMMY Nominee for “Best Children’s Music Album”.

All Sunday morning performances begin at 11 a.m. and last for about an hour. Lubber Run Amphitheater is located at N. Columbus Street and 2nd Street North, in the Arlington Forrest neighborhood. Click here for further info, directions, and a full schedule of all of the free concerts taking place through August 11 at Lubber Run Amphitheater.

Uncle Devin — Shake, Scrape & Strike.

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 June 26, there are 137 detached homes, 26 townhouses and 130 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 18 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

1814 N. Johnson Street

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.

Ask Eli: Best Arlington condos for DC Fourth of July fireworks

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!

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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

Jumpstart your fitness journey with FIT@MET!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Join the FIT@MET Wednesday Sunrise Series.

Join DC Fray + National Landing on Wednesdays 8-9 a.m. from June 28 through September 27 for free instructor-led classes that are sure to help you break a sweat.

No experience required! Simply select the class you’re interested in from our starting lineup:

  • June 28: Yoga from Jade Holistic Wellness
  • July 5: Boxing from BASH Boxing
  • July 12: Karen from Pure Barre Pentagon City
  • July 19: Yoga from CorePower
  • July 26: HIIT from Orangetheory Fitness Pentagon City

Spots are limited, so RSVP now to secure your spot.

Statutes of Liberty: A type of discrimination you may not have heard about — document discrimination

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.

Any of us who have ever applied for a job know the joyous feelings of filling out paperwork. Then, if you actually get the job, then there’s usually even more paperwork.

Part of that paperwork includes the Form I-9.

The Form I-9 is a Department of Homeland Security form that employers request new employees to complete to show that the employee is authorized to work in the United States. The purpose of the completed form and the documents submitted along with it are two-fold: (1) to establish the employee’s identity and (2) establish the employee’s authorization to work in the United States.

The tricky part usually arises when it’s time for the employee to show the document or documents that establish her identity and authorization to work. To satisfy these requirements, there are lists of various acceptable documents. Some documents, referred to List A documents, establish both identity and authorization to work. Prime examples are U.S. passports, green cards, and work permits.

In the alternative, employees can show a combination of documents from Lists B and C. List B documents establish identity. The most common List B document is a state-issued ID or driver’s license. List C documents establish work authorization. One of the most common ways to establish work authorization is presenting an unrestricted social security card; this means that the card does have any notations on it indicating that the social security card has to be presented with another particular document, like a work permit.

The reason this becomes tricky is because many employers do not fully understand the rules regarding the I-9 and the acceptable documents a worker can present. Employers are absolutely not permitted to dictate which documents a worker must present to satisfy the I-9 except in extremely limited circumstances, like federal government employment or a job involving federal contracts that require that workers be U.S. citizens or green card holders.

If any of those exceptions do not apply, the worker gets to decide which documents to present. Employers are not permitted to demand that a person submit a specific document; doing so could result in a charge of document discrimination.

Document discrimination is prohibited under the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 USC § 1324b(a)(6). Here are some common scenarios in which we see employers request documents when it is inappropriate to do so:

(1) Jane has a work permit because she has a pending green card application. Jane filed to renew her work permit before her current one expired. Jane also received the official receipt noting that she timely filed her work permit renewal application, and the receipt states that she has an automatic 540-day extension even if her current work permit is facially invalid. Thus, she is permitted to work as long as she presents her expired work permit along with the official receipt.

Jane applies for and gets a new job right after her work permit expires. When she arrives for her first day of work, she fills out the I-9 and provides her documentation. But the employer tells her that the expired work permit plus the receipt notice is unacceptable. The employer then demands a valid work permit card.

The employer in Jane’s case is in the wrong here and is (intentionally or unintentionally) discriminating against Jane based on her documentation. Employers must be aware of the rules regarding expired documents plus receipts, and the Form I-9 itself even states that the I-9 instructions address acceptable receipts as proof of work eligibility.

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How much is it to replace a catalytic converter?

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Like finding a good contractor, tailor, or other skilled profession, selecting a mechanic or body shop you can trust with major repair jobs is becoming harder to do.

CarCare To Go is one local business aiming to change the way the industry works by offering flat-pricing on basic maintenance, offering free valet pick-up and return on all services, and thorough video and photo documentation from your individual mechanic showing you first-hand what your vehicle needs and why.

You approve each estimate or repair line-by-line from your phone or via e-mail, by-passing the waiting room and still feeling educated and empowered to make the best choices for you.

Unless a certified professional mechanic has examined your vehicle, simply searching online for the right part is not likely to yield the repair you need — or the cost savings you hope to obtain. For example, catalytic converters start at around $900 and can even range upwards of $3,000 for certain models. As manufacturers phase out models and address supply chain challenges, it’s best not to delay a critical repair like a catalytic converter in hopes of waiting on a lower price.

Bringing your own part to the mechanic isn’t the best idea, but ask your advisor about after-market parts and talk about the warranty coverage and period for your specific car.

Need an oil change or just an estimate about why that check engine light is on? Book now to get a full-synthetic oil change for just $20.23, and there’s still time to enter the Summer Getaway Giveaway for ALL service appointments booked and completed before July 3rd.

Biz Talk: Amazon HQ2 — what’s next?

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This article was written by Arlington Economic Development.

Last week marked the official ribbon cutting at Amazon HQ2.

It’s been four and a half years since the announcement was made of Amazon’s selection of Arlington as its new home, and to say a lot has changed in that time would be an understatement. Projects evolve, priorities shift, and a global pandemic threw everything we know about the office market into flux.

In some ways, the opening of Metropolitan Park, a 2.1 million square foot office building, is even more significant now. Office building and leasing has significantly slowed in the past few years due to the ongoing trend of remote or hybrid work. To see these two towers welcome employees back to the office is both welcoming and inspiring to all of us who work in economic development circles.

However, the fact remains that Arlington is currently facing a record 22% office vacancy. It’s clear we need to think about some of our traditional office spaces a little differently. For some, that’s meant a residential conversion, but for others, the possibilities are even greater.

Last fall, Arlington County put together a task force to study commercial market resiliency; that is, ways we as a county can be more flexible and nimble in our zoning policies to better attract the types of businesses that can create environments to entice people back to the office. These are things like indoor recreation, animal boarding, artisan beverage makers and so many more. We’re continuing to explore alternate uses of older office product that become a win-win for businesses and the community.

But as we celebrate the opening of HQ2, we see it not as a culmination of our efforts since 2018, but rather a new beginning. HQ2 provides Arlington renewed recognition as a technology hub and attractive location for that talented workforce companies require. The 8,000 employees already assigned to HQ2 will also help to breathe new life into the neighborhood — those employees will be visiting restaurants, taking advantage of neighborhood services and enjoying parks and other amenities.

At the same time, we’re working to make those office corridors even more flexible for the types of businesses that are in demand. It’s a multi-tiered approach to ensure our commercial market remains strong.

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 June 19, there are 149 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 138 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 27 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

2200 N. Pollard Street

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.

Ask Eli: DC Metro market overview

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: What trends are you seeing across the DC Metro real estate market?

Answer: The D.C. suburbs are holding strong despite sticky interest rates, but D.C. itself is showing some signs of weakness. Let’s jump into the charts and data that I think best highlight what we’re seeing so far this year:

Low Listing Supply Is The Main Story

Chart #1: One of the most interesting charts I’ve seen is below that compares this spring (March-May) to previous October-December new listing volume. Historically, we see the least number of homes listed for sale during the 4th quarter of each year and the most homes listed for sale March-May each year. New listing volume has been so low in 2023 that March-May 2023 has a similar listing volume to what we usually see from October-December.

Chart #2: We’re currently in our 15th straight month of negative year-over-year new listing activity and the last positive month was up only .5% year-over-year.

Chart #3: All D.C. area submarkets are desperate for new listings, but Fairfax County has it the worst with a drop in new listings volume by more than 40% year-over-year. D.C. has had the lowest drop but it’s still down by nearly 30%.

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