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Ask Eli: Impressive sales at Rosslyn’s new luxury condo, Pierce

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: How are sales going at Pierce condos in Rosslyn?

Answer: The Pierce condos are one of three new buildings in Rosslyn’s luxury Highlands development (the other two buildings are rental apartments) with prices that rival the most expensive buildings in the D.C. Metro and far outpace other Arlington buildings on a price-per-square-foot basis, which I detailed in this 2019 column.

Building Overview

Penzance (developer) and The Mayhood Company (sales) began pre-selling the 104 units just before the pandemic hit. Sales in the building have captured the attention of many Arlingtonians and the real estate community because of the building’s prominent position in the Rosslyn skyline, record setting price-per-square-foot, and shifts in condo demand for a couple years following COVID lockdowns.

The Mayhood Company, who also handled sales at Turnberry Tower, Rosslyn’s other luxury condo building, played an active role in designing Pierce condos and conceived it as “Turnberry Gen 2” with the application of lessons learned from their time selling those units.

Prices ranged from roughly $950,000-$4,000,000+ with the average unit going for about $1,750,000 for approximately 1,700 SqFt of living space. Currently, units in the building range in price from ~$1,800,000-$2,600,000 and in size from ~2,000-2,400 SqFt. The bulk of the building has sold for $1.5M-$2.4M.

Pierce was completed and ready for move-ins by the fall of 2021.

I caught up with the Mayhood sales team to get a sense of how sales have gone through the lockdowns, during the post-lockdown flight from condos, and the return to more normal buying habits over the past 12-18 months.

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Pre-Sales/Pre-Pandemic

Sales jumped out to a great start prior to the pandemic, with about 10 contracts right out of the gate. As expected, many of these sales were to buyers targeting premium views — the building has quite a few upper-level units with unobstructed (and nearly impossible to be obstructed in the future) views of D.C. and the Potomac. The other non-view sales were units on lower floors with the lowest price-per-square-foot.

Many of these early buyers were downsizing from larger single-family homes, which is/was expected to be the most common buyer profile for the building.

COVID Lockdown, Sales Lockdown

The sales office shut down due to COVID lockdowns in March 2020 and sales were frozen until August 2020, when they began taking calls and doing virtual sales. There was zero activity from mid-March until August/September, but they still finished 2020 with 15 total contracts.

Vaccines Led to More Activity

The building had about one contract per month from August 2020 through May 2021, but once vaccines became more broadly available and life started opening back up around June 2021, activity picked up significantly, resulting in 8 contracts in June 2021 and about 3-4 contracts per month through the end of 2021. Also, by June of 2021, the construction had progressed to allow prospective buyers to take hard hat tours and see the finishes and views in person, as opposed to renderings, which is always going to boost interest and sales. There were 28 contracts written in 2021.

From late summer 2020 through early summer 2021, the buyer profile shifted from those downsizing from larger single-family homes to buyers who were already living in condos/apartments and looking to upgrade. That shifted back to the “norm” of more downsizers by summer 2021, when vaccination rates were up.

Return to “Normal” Life Kept Sales Strong

2022 was a return to “normal” operations for most people and Pierce sales were excellent, with a consistent pace of 2-3 sales per month, totaling 30 contracts on the year, evenly split between the first and second half of the year. The overall condo market in Arlington also started experiencing a return to more normal buying behavior; low interest rates early in the year helped too.

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Woloszyn’s Insights: Why you should set up an LLC for your investment property

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].

Please Note: The information contained within this article is intended to serve as a general guide and is provided for informational purposes only. It is not designed to offer legal, tax, or financial advice. Given the complexity and potential legal and financial implications of forming or holding a legal entity such as an LLC, it is highly recommended that you seek professional legal and tax advice prior to making such decisions. Every individual’s situation is unique, and a qualified professional can provide guidance that is tailored to your specific circumstances.

The world of real estate investing is both exhilarating and complex.

Among the numerous considerations you must juggle, understanding the most advantageous structure for your investment can significantly impact your long-term success. One such structure that savvy investors use is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). In this article, we will delve into the reasons why setting up an LLC for your investment property can be an astute decision.

Limited Liability

The primary benefit of an LLC, as the name suggests, is limiting your personal liability. By forming an LLC for your investment property, you create a legal separation between your personal assets and those tied to your investment. If a lawsuit arises related to the property — say, for instance, due to an accident that occurs on the premises — your personal assets, such as your home, your car, or your personal bank accounts, are generally protected. The LLC acts as a shield, with any liability typically confined to the assets held by the LLC.

Tax Flexibility

LLCs are unique in offering what’s known as “pass-through taxation.” This means that the profits and losses from the LLC pass directly through to the owners, who report them on their personal tax returns. This feature avoids double taxation, which is a factor in corporations where profits are taxed at both the corporate level and then again on the individual’s income tax. The ability to deduct business expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and operating expenses, can also reduce your overall tax burden.

Ease of Transfer

An LLC can simplify the process of transferring ownership of the property. In many cases, the sale of an investment property can involve substantial paperwork, time, and fees. If the property is owned by an LLC, however, ownership of the LLC itself can be transferred, which includes the property it owns. This method can potentially streamline transactions and make them more efficient.

Succession Planning

LLCs provide an orderly and efficient mechanism for managing and transferring ownership, which can be particularly useful in succession planning. If you intend to pass the property to your heirs, the LLC structure allows you to allocate units or shares of the LLC rather than the property itself, a process that can simplify matters considerably.

Professionalism and Credibility

Forming an LLC can add a layer of professionalism and credibility to your investment endeavor. To prospective tenants, business partners, or lenders, an LLC can signal that you’re serious about your real estate investment business.

However, it’s crucial to note that while there are numerous advantages to forming an LLC for your investment property, it may not be the right choice for every investor or every situation. There are also costs and administrative requirements associated with setting up and maintaining an LLC that should be considered. The process and regulations can vary significantly from one state to another.

In conclusion, setting up an LLC for your investment property can provide valuable benefits including liability protection, tax flexibility, ease of transfer, and a platform for succession planning, as well as enhanced professionalism and credibility. It is, therefore, a strategy worth considering as you navigate the complexities of real estate investing.

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.

Listing of the Day: 620 N Tazewell Street

By ARLnow.com
1/5

Address: 620 N Tazewell Street
Neighborhood: Townes of Ballston
Type: 3 BR, 2 (+2 half) BA townhouse – 1,810 sq. ft.
Listed: $1,050,000

Noteworthy: Steps away from Target and Good Company Doughnuts!

Rare opportunity for an updated townhome in the heart of Ballston.

Meticulously maintained and upgraded over the years, this quiet retreat offers 3 large bedrooms, including a top floor owner’s suite and custom walk-in closet with a large private deck overlooking the incredible courtyard entry. The other 2 bedrooms share a tub/shower combo with a private vanity and commode on each side. The home is primarily hardwoods with new fixtures, new appliances and much more.

Just outside the lower-level door is an attached garage with parking for two vehicles and bike storage conveys, plus zoned street parking and visitor passes. This home is steps away from the new Target, the famous Good Company Doughnuts & Café, and the new Ballston Quarter shops, restaurants, and work-out facilities. In a commuter’s dream location, you’ll find easy access to Route 50 and I-66 with the Ballston metro station being a mere 2 blocks away.

These true 3 bedroom units in the Townes of Ballston community don’t come up often and won’t last long.

Tour today!

Listed by:
James Corry — James Corry Real Estate Services LLC
KW Metro Center
[email protected]
(561) 389-3111

Legal Insider: Meeting with security clearance investigators

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

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.

It is important to obtain legal advice prior to meeting with security clearance investigators when potential security clearance problems are anticipated.

When individuals have difficulties in the security clearance process or anticipate future problems, the best advice that can be given is to prepare in advance for the meeting. Preparation for the first security clearance meeting can make the difference between a government contractor/federal employee successfully obtaining/retaining a security clearance or being denied one.

Preparing for the Initial Security Clearance Investigator Meeting

One of the most important considerations in meeting with a security clearance investigator for the first time is to adequately prepare for the meeting, especially where there may be potential disqualifying security concerns. We find that most government contractors and federal employees have a general sense of potential security concerns that could arise at the time that they begin to review or complete their e-QIP/SF-86 submissions.

In the most common scenario, an individual is usually alerted to potential problems that may require preparation for the clearance process when they find that they may have to answer “yes” to a certain question and then provide formal disclosures to an uncomfortable question, such as the use of drugs or past financial debts. When these types of issues are anticipated, then one should seek counsel and prepare in advance of a meeting with a security clearance investigator.

Review Relevant Documentation

If a potential security concern exists, it is important to gather as much information and documentation one has on the issue of concern in preparation for the interview.  Such information, if useful, can be provided to security clearance investigators at the start.  At other times, the information can be useful for later in the clearance process, if needed.

For example, suppose an individual knows that they have a large outstanding debt on their credit report. If so, then that information will certainly be important to review prior to a meeting with a security clearance investigator.

Respond to the Questions Asked

In regard to meetings between government contractors/federal employees and security clearance investigators, one other issue that we run across is the tendency of some individuals to provide information not sought by an investigator.

We advise government contractors and federal employees to answer the questions asked by investigators as honestly as possible but stick to the actual questions that are posed. On many occasions, individuals can get sidetracked or provide information that is not relevant to the questions asked by an investigator, which may cause clearance difficulties later or cause frustration for the investigator.

The usual key to a successful interview is to be as responsive as possible to any areas of concern but to make the meeting with the clearance investigator as efficient as possible. Investigators tend to have many cases to review and like to focus on their particular areas of concern. The better an individual can honestly address specific issues raised by an investigator, the better the potential outcome.

When issues arise, it is important to consult with counsel to obtain the best legal advice possible in presenting one’s response to difficult questions.

Follow-up Interviews or Requests by the Investigator

A security clearance investigator may need additional information regarding potential security concerns or need to interview an individual a second time. We typically advise individuals to attempt to anticipate these requests in advance.

For example, if an investigator appears to have questions about one’s psychological issues during an initial interview, it may be helpful to attempt to obtain a letter from a medical professional soon after that shows that the psychological concerns are under control and have been resolved. Doing so in advance can save time and effort later and may resolve issues early should the investigator come back with additional questions.

Contact Us

If you are in need of security clearance legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.

Biz Talk: MarginEdge returns to Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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This article was written by Sindy Yeh, Senior Business Ambassador for Arlington Economic Development.

MarginEdge, a leading restaurant management and bill payment software company, recently held its ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open its new office headquarters at 4200 Wilson Boulevard in Ballston.

Arlington Board members Takis Karantonis and Matt de Ferranti were on hand to cut the ribbon and presented a “Key to the County” to MarginEdge.

Founded by restaurateurs Bo Davis and Roy Phillips, along with partner Brian Mills, MarginEdge offers a cloud-based, software platform that helps restaurants with back-of-house functions to make running a restaurant more efficient. Its restaurant management system works with the point of sale and accounting systems to streamline inventory, ordering and cost analysis to help minimize paperwork and manual data entry.

According to CEO Bo Davis, “the restaurant management solution was developed with the goal to automate manual tasks so that restaurant operators have more time to do what they love and more of what makes them profitable.”

The new, 22,000 square foot office is located above Ballston Quarter and is equipped with a commercial kitchen and restaurant space. The office was built and designed for collaboration between MarginEdge’s 140+ employees and for its clients to come in and use the space for cooking, networking or special events. MarginEdge has helped more than 5,200 clients across the U.S. and Canada, including local businesses such as SER, Big Buns, Lost Dog Café, and South Block.

Since its founding eight years ago, MarginEdge has raised more than $70 million in funding. The funding is invested in adding more functions and tools in its software platform and to grow its workforce for continued expansion.

Earlier this month, MarginEdge was named to the Inc. Best Workplaces 2023 and the Washington Business Journal’s Best Places to Work 2023 for the second year in a row.

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 May 29, there are 139 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 123 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 13 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

232 N. Fillmore 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: Navigating assumable VA loans and memorial donation to TAPS

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: How does assuming a low interest rate VA loan work?

Answer: Thank you to all who have served and to their families who have sacrificed or lost loved ones for our freedom. I hope you and yours had a special Memorial Day weekend with friends and family to celebrate our country and those we’ve lost defending it.

The Eli Residential Group is donating to Arlington, Virginia-based TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) in honor of Memorial Day. Since 1994, TAPS has provided comfort and hope 24/7 through a national peer support network and connection to grief resources, all at no cost to surviving families and loved ones.

In keeping with the theme of Memorial Day, I will revisit a column about assuming low interest rate VA (Veteran Affairs) loans.

An assumable loan is a loan that can be transferred from a seller to a buyer, allowing the buyer to maintain the interest rate of the seller’s existing loan rather than accept a market-rate interest rate. This can be valuable in a high-interest rate environment like we’re in now when most homeowners have an interest rate well below current market rates.

To help me provide the best information about assumable VA loans, I reached out to Skip Clasper of Sandy Spring Bank ([email protected]), who I highly recommend for a range of loan products including VA loans, construction/rehab loans, and jumbo loans.

Only Some Loans Are Assumable

VA loans (available to Veterans, service members and surviving spouses), FHA loans, and USDA loans are the only traditional loan products that are assumable. They make up a relatively small percentage of existing home loans in Arlington (likely single-digit percentage of total loans). I’m not aware of any conventional loans that can be assumed.

Key Details about Assuming a VA Loan

There are some important details and caveats to assuming a VA loan that both buyers and sellers need to understand prior to transferring a loan:

  1. Buyers do NOT have to be a Veteran or otherwise qualify for a VA loan to assume a VA Loan.
  2. Sellers can NOT obtain a new VA loan until the previously assumed loan is paid off (or refinanced out of) unless the new buyer is a Veteran and uses their eligibility on the assumed loan.
  3. It is less expensive (closing costs) to assume a loan than to originate a new loan. The VA Funding fee is only 0.5% for assumable VA loans.
  4. You need a down payment that covers the gap between the assumable loan balance and the purchase price. For example, if the seller’s loan balance is $200,000 and the purchase price is $500,000, the buyer is assuming $200,000 is debt and will have to cover the remaining $300,000 via down payment or alternative debt such as a second trust.
  5. Buyers need to qualify for the loan using normal income, debt, and credit guidelines.

As you can probably determine from the above details, there are only a limited number of scenarios where assuming a VA loan makes sense for both parties. The biggest hurdle to VA loan assumption is that the VA loan eligibility stays with the loan so if the buyer does not have their own VA loan eligibility, the seller must be sure they are okay giving up this very valuable benefit until the new buyer pays it off or refinances.

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 Arlington VA 22203. (703) 390-9460.

Neighborhood Spotlight: What to do Memorial Day weekend

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Memorial Day is a special time to remember and show appreciation for the courageous men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country. It’s also an opportunity to come together with loved ones and celebrate the spirit of freedom and unity.

The Arlington and Washington, D.C. areas are among the most meaningful places to honor our country’s fallen heroes. From meaningful commemorations to joyful gatherings, there’s something for everyone to observe on Memorial Day.

Inspired by the historic photo taken during the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II, the US Marine Corps War Memorial is an awe-inspiring monument. This iconic memorial holds a special place in the hearts of Americans as a tribute to the valor and dedication of the Marine Corps throughout history. The memorial is open to the public, and visitors can explore the surrounding grounds, which are beautifully landscaped and provide an opportunity for reflection. Many individuals come to pay their respects, leave flowers or mementos, and honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed.

Just before Memorial Day weekend, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (the “Old Guard”) honors America’s fallen heroes by placing American flags at gravesites for service members buried at Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery.

This tradition, known as “Flags In,” has taken place annually since the Old Guard was designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment participates, placing small American flags in front of more than 228,000 headstones and at the bottom of about 7,000 niche rows in the cemetery’s Columbarium Courts and Niche Wall. Each flag is inserted into the ground, exactly one boot length from the headstone’s base.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Sentinels (who are members of the Old Guard) place flags to honor the Unknowns.

All flags are removed after Memorial Day, before the cemetery opens to the public.

Immerse yourself in the patriotic atmosphere by attending the National Memorial Day Parade which marches down Constitution Avenue. The parade honors men and women who have died while serving in the US military. Pre-parade festivities will begin at 1 p.m. and the parade starts at 2 p.m. This grand procession features marching bands, veterans’ groups, military units, and festive floats, all coming together to honor our fallen heroes. Show your support by joining the enthusiastic crowd along the parade route.

If you’re looking for a small-town experience, join the Memorial Day Parade in Falls Church. This delightful parade showcases local marching bands, veterans’ groups, scout troops, and community organizations united in honoring our fallen heroes. Enjoy the cheerful procession, wave to the participants, and feel the warmth of community spirit.

Discover the vibrant spirit of Memorial Day by attending community events such as Viva Vienna. The Rotary Club of Vienna has been running ViVa! Vienna! for over 39 years in concert with the Town of Vienna. Each year the proceeds support over 70 local organizations. Enjoy music, amusement rides, arts and crafts, and delectable food options. Join the festivities, connect with your community, and support local vendors and organizations.

For more than 30 years, the National Memorial Day Concert has featured star-studded performances honoring the military service and sacrifice of men and women in uniform, their families at home, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. While aired nationally on PBS, the public is welcome to attend this free event on the west lawn of the Capitol Building. Bring your blankets, relax under the starry sky, and enjoy an evening filled with uplifting music and heartfelt moments.

If you’re looking for something to do, but not big crowds, hosting friends and family for a delightful backyard BBQ or picnic may be the ticket. Fire up the grill, savor mouthwatering burgers, hot dogs, and all your favorite BBQ treats. Enjoy the warm weather, play lawn games, and spend quality time with loved ones, all while reflecting on the importance of Memorial Day.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and for many people, it’s a time eagerly anticipated for the opening of pools and the refreshing splashes of water under the warm sun. As the weather becomes warmer and more inviting, communities and recreational centers across the country make preparations to welcome swimmers of all ages to their sparkling pools.

This Memorial Day, let’s take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Whether you choose to visit memorials, participate in meaningful traditions, attend parades and concerts, host a backyard BBQ, or join local festivities, the key is to commemorate their sacrifices while creating cherished memories with your loved ones.

May this Memorial Day be a meaningful occasion as we express gratitude and celebrate the freedom we enjoy today.

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.

Listing of the Day: 1824 N. Inglewood Street

By ARLnow.com
1/6

Address: 1824 N. Inglewood Street
Neighborhood: Tara
Type: 6 BR, 4 (+1 half) BA single-family detached — 3,800 sq. ft.
Listed: $1,475,000

Noteworthy: Expanded with 4 bedrooms upstairs, 2 main level bedrooms, 2 garages and a carport

A delightful combination of character and space, this expanded home is well sited on an 11,000 square foot lot in the leafy Tara neighborhood.

Renovated kitchen with center island flows into sun-filled breakfast room, dining room and living room with fireplace. A laundry area with pantry opens to the carport, making it convenient to bring packages directly into the home. Two bedrooms are on the main level along with both a full and half bath. Upstairs, the primary bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, two walk-in closets, a bathroom with double vanity, soaking tub, and separate shower. Three other bedrooms on this level have architectural detailing, large closets, and are served by a hall bathroom.

The lower level features a rec room with 10 foot ceilings, tall windows, built ins, and areas for media, play, and relaxing. A door leads to the patio and well landscaped back yard. A gym, second laundry room, workshop, and storage room complete this level.

Located between Westover Village and Lee-Harrison Center, the home is near parks, bike path, and amenities. Glebe Elementary School, Swanson Middle School, and Yorktown High School are nearby.

Listed by:
Betsy Twigg
[email protected]
(703) 967-4391

20th Annual Green Community Tour returning June 4!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Join us Sunday, June 4 from 1-4 p.m. for the 20th annual Green Community Celebration & Tour: Homes, Gardens & More!

This is your chance to learn from your Arlington neighbors on greening your home and garden.

Arlington County’s Office of Sustainability and Environmental Management is proud to  partner again with Arlington Public Libraries, EcoAction Arlington and Virginia Cooperative Extension to sponsor this event.

Visit the homes and gardens of homeowners as they showcase their green homes, renovations, and watershed-friendly gardens during the Green Community Tour. Choose as many sites to visit as you’d like, in any order. The tours are self-guided and available between 1-4 p.m.

Plus, come to Shirlington Library Plaza for a showcase of electric vehicles, demos, and learn more about local programs to encourage energy efficiency, solar, native plants, wildlife habitat, and more!

Register here (FREE) for addresses to all homes and gardens on the tour!

Location: Shirlington Library Plaza at 4200 Campbell Avenue, and homes, gardens, and community spaces throughout Arlington.

For questions about this event, please email [email protected].

Parking/Transit Options: Shirlington garage offers free parking for up to 4 hours, as well as free all-day street parking. Check here for public transit and biking options.

COVID-19 Safety: Participants entering homes on the tour are asked to wear a mask or face covering.

Masks are optional at the Celebration taking place at Shirlington Branch Library. Stay home if you are feeling sick and/or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

Statutes of Liberty: The Biden administration strikes again — another new parole program

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 Laura Lorenzo, 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 loyal reader(s) will recall that we have covered various programs which allow foreign nationals from countries suffering from difficult circumstances to travel legally to the United States and obtain work authorization.

Most notably, the first was the Uniting for Ukraine program; then came a similar program for Venezuelans; and finally, a program for Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans.

On April 27, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State jointly announced new measures to help decrease irregular regional migration to the United States. The biggest part of that announcement is the creation of a family reunification parole process. This process will apply to nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Colombia.

This parole process has important differences from the earlier parole processes that have come to fruition during the Biden Administration. The earlier processes require a sponsor who requests that the foreign national be able to come to the United States. The sponsor and the foreign national do not have to be related in any way.

By contrast, as the name “family reunification” suggests, the new parole program announced at the end of April will require a family relationship. In fact, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident must have filed a family petition for their relative and the petition must be approved. U.S. citizens can file family petitions for parents, children, adult sons and daughters regardless of marital status, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can file family petitions for spouses, children, and adult, unmarried sons and daughters.

As part of the family petition adjudication process, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will determine whether the foreign national relative should be invited to participate in the parole program. The invitation from the U.S. government is a requirement; the relative cannot simply request parole to travel to the United States.

If the relative is invited and approved for parole, the relative may travel to the United States legally. The relative would also be eligible for work authorization.

For now, this is the only information we have. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services expects to release more details in mid-June. But what do we think about this?

If this program works well, we expect that it will indeed assist with family reunification, especially for those family members who have to wait a long time to apply for their green cards due to visa unavailability. For example, there are only 65,000 visas allotted for brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens each year.

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