Fifty-nine restaurants throughout the City of Alexandria will offer a $35 prix-fixe, three-course dinner or $35 dinner for two. Participants include the Majestic, Bastille, La Bergerie, the Grille at Morrison House, Tempo and Cheesetique.

Location: Throughout the City of Alexandria, VA
Information: (703) 746-3301; http://VisitAlexandriaVA.com
Cost: $35 prix-fixe, three-course dinner or $35 dinner for two

More than 200 of the District’s finest restaurants will offer three-course lunches for $20.12 and three-course dinners for $35.12. Cuisines include contemporary American, Mexican, French, Mediterranean, Italian, Southern, seafood, Spanish, California, Pan-Asian and many more. Click here for a complete list of participating restaurants.

Location: Various locations around Washington, DC
Information: www.restaurantweekmetrodc.org
Cost: Lunch is $20.12 per person; Dinner is $35.12 per person

Another HUGE plus about searching from this source is the accuracy of the data. Most non-real estate agent sites are extremely inaccurate. These sites are numerous and include Zillow, Yahoo and Trulia to name a few.

On this site, you are able to:
search for all homes for sale, regardless of listing Broker
locate all Open Houses, regardless of listing agent
search for sales and opens without requiring registration

The only time I require information is if you voluntarily sign yourself up to receive daily email alerts of new listings and that’s so I know where to send the updates No one see’s your personal information except me and I don’t share information.

For most homes, a home warranty costs about $425 and can be renewed annually. Home warranties have a deductible usually $50-$75 per call. During my time in Northern Virginia, I’ve personally benefitted from having a home warranty. We had a $6,500 HVAC unit replaced, a dishwasher, and a hot water heater. They were completely replaced with brand new items for $50 each… you can’t beat that. What’s the worst that will happen? You’ll spend $400 on a warranty and nothing will break. It seems like a small price to pay for complete peace of mind (in my opinion).

Whether you own a home as your primary residence or as a rental property, a home warranty could save you a lot of money!

1. Are new home prices negotiable?
2. Are there any incentives offered?
3. Should I have a buyers agent on a new home too?
4. Why do I need a buyers agent?
5. Isn’t the new home sales rep an agent?
6. If the builder isn’t paying a REALTOR, what happens to that money?
7. What are the steps involved in a new home purchase?

1. Are new home prices negotiable or are they firm?

It depends on a variety of things. Once we get into the process and I can start asking some questions, I can help determine builder flexibility. I will say that generally, “spec homes” or homes that are already built on the speculation that a buyer will need a house quickly, are more negotiable than a house that needs to be built in today’s market. The builder usually puts in popular options and has a set price but they will entertain offers that are less than full price. “To be built” homes are negotiable with some builders and are completely set in stone with others.

2. Do builders offer any other incentives?

Usually there are incentives. They will offer either free upgrades or money you can use towards upgrades or closing cost help and they’ll usually offer another cash incentive to use their lender.

3. Can I work with a buyers agent on a new home too?

Not only can you work with a buyers agent, you’d be foolish not to. Especially an agent with new home sales experience. If we’ve written offers for other buyers in the same development that you’re interested in, we can even provide information about what the builder may accept. We also have unique insight into other aspects of the process.

4. Why do I need a buyers agent?

A buyers agent works in your best interests to get the best price and terms available for you. We’re also able to share with you both our experiences and the experiences of numerous buyers who’ve recently purchased new homes. Most people buy a new home once in a great while, we help people buy new homes several times each month. We know what the sales rep will say and can point out what he/she skims past or omits. Our service is invaluable.

5. Isn’t the new home sales rep an agent?

New home sales reps are not at all like real estate agents. They are more like new car salespeople. They have inventory and are selling a product. Career real estate agents have a skill set and what we sell is our expertise. We won’t sell you something if you’re not ready or if you change your mind. We’ll wait and keep in touch until you do need our knowledge and our expertise.

6. If the builder isn’t paying a REALTOR, can I have that money?

Reputable builders would never shoot themselves in the foot by trying to undercut a professional real estate agent. A vast majority of new home sales occur as a direct result of REALTORS. Builders are happy to spend money either on a commission for a real estate agent or on advertising. If someone comes in and asks to save money because they don’t have a REALTOR the builder will not only say no but they’ll probably negotiate less knowing they are working with someone who is not experienced. A real estate agents commission is a normal cost of doing business and the beneficiary is you!

7. What are the steps involved in a new home purchase?

• I can’t express the importance of this enough, ALWAYS visit the new home site WITH your real estate agent… especially the first time you go. If you don’t, they may still let you have your agent but sometimes, you may not get to enjoy the benefit of having a buyers agent at all. The builders want us there initially so agency is understood (who represents whom).
• Make an offer. This is usually done informally before paperwork is drawn up. We’ll lay out our what we want and we’ll be told, “well, I’ll bring it to the boss and see what they say” or “the builder never says no, they’ll say yes or counter with something that works for them” you get the idea. This is also the point at which you should start the loan process if you’ve decided to use the builders mortgage company. If you’ve decided to use your own lender, you should have already started the process before making an offer. Speaking with a lender is critical. You won’t know what to offer or how much cash you’ll need to close without doing this.
• Write the offer. This is after you’ve come to an agreement verbally. A verbal agreement isn’t worth the paper it isn’t written on so you’ll want to make sure everything is signed. You’ll also have to put an earnest money deposit down which goes towards your down payment or closing costs.
• Finish getting your loan if it’s not already finalized. Inspections. Depending on what stage of construction the home is in, you can opt to do a pre-drywall inspection. At a later point you’ll do another home inspection. You’ll have a final walk-through to see if anything still needs to be fixed and then you’ll go to settlement.

If you’re considering purchasing new construction, contact me. I’ll get a real estate agents version of the new home guide to you and we can start planning!

Fairfax County residents can recycle electronic equipment throughout the year, including televisions, computers and peripheral devices. There is No Charge for Fairfax County residents to participate in Electric Sunday but proof of residency may be required.

All events are held from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and  here are the upcoming dates for 2012

• Jan. 29: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Feb. 26: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Mar. 25: I-95 Landfill Complex, 9850 Furnace Road, Lorton, VA 22079
• Apr. 29: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• May 20: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Jun. 24: I-95 Landfill Complex, 9850 Furnace Road, Lorton, VA 22079
• Jul. 22: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Aug. 26: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Sept. 23: I-95 Landfill Complex, 9850 Furnace Road, Lorton, VA 22079
• Oct. 21: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Nov. 18: I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030

Of these Burke homes, many have been reduced in price. Most are less than 90 days on the market but there are some at 200+. Homes shown are being sold by homeowners or banks as foreclosures. Some shown are offered for sale as short sales as well.

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Specify town homes in West Springfield, condos in Alexandria or single family homes in Clifton. You can set yourself up to receive any information in the entire Washington DC Metropolitan area. Define your choices to customize the updates you’ll receive and enjoy.

If you’ve been around the Fairfax Station area, you may recognize this unique home. From a distance, you can see the Spanish tiled roof line when passing by The English Hills Estate subdivision. It’s quietly set back off of and away from Henderson Rd with a long, clear view in either direction. Henderson Road is a Fairfax County scenic byway. Located between Fountainhead Regional Park and the Occoquan Reservoir, as well as Burke Lake Park which are only minutes away, this home is convenient for commuters and close to fun for the adventurer in you.

Located on 5.93 pastoral acres in Fairfax Station, this home boasts over 5,450 square feet of living space and is reminiscent of an Italian countryside villa that makes you feel many miles away from the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia. With 5 bedrooms and 5 1/2 Baths, this exceptional residence affords plenty of room for living both inside and out and is graced by an abundance of striking design features that truly put it in a class by itself. Solid brick construction, clay-tiled roof, 4 fireplaces and professional landscaping are just some of the highlights that make this home so unique and unforgettable.

In addition to a two car garage, there’s extra portico space for more parking as well as a huge parking pad and circular driveway. Brand new windows, soaring ceilings, and updates throughout demonstrate that no detail has been overlooked here, while a shimmering pool and idyllic stone patio provide for a private entertaining oasis.

Ceramic tile flooring and a 2-story foyer usher you into this light-filled home with a dramatic spiraling staircase. To the right is a large, beautifully appointed office with gorgeous built-in shelving and arched windows. To the left, you’ll find the formal living room
accented by rich hardwood floors, arched windows, crisp crown molding, and an elegant gas fireplace. A pass-through
introduces a magnificent dining room boasting a towering ceiling and two-story arched Palladian windows with views of the back patio and sparkling in-ground pool.

The open gourmet kitchen is a chef’s delight with its antique white cabinetry, gleaming granite countertops, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and expansive center island/breakfast bar. A distinctive brick arch, ceramic tile backsplash, and tiled flooring add an extra degree of style. The spacious, adjoining family room features a stone gas fireplace as the focal point of the room.

An elegant spiraling staircase ascends to a gorgeous open landing and then on to the grand master suite with a romantic gas fireplace and French doors overlooking the dining room, and views of the backyard and pool. Unwind after a long day in the sumptuous master bath with ceramic tile flooring, a luxurious 2-person tub, dual-sink granite vanities, and an invisible glass shower. An en suite plus three additional bright and cheerful bedrooms (including one with a tiled sitting room) share a hall bath.

It’s all fun and games on the walk-up lower level that includes a cozy family room with brick fireplace and an exotic granite wet bar all accented by plush wall-to-wall carpeting and recessed lighting. A spacious bedroom and adjoining bath makes for perfect private guest accommodations or can be used to suit the needs of your lifestyle.

This home sits amidst the Equestrian community on one of the loveliest scenic roads in the area and is only a stone’s throw away from miles of private horse trails, major commuter routes, shopping and numerous dining options. If you’re looking for an exceptional property built with grand style, warmth, and ultimate quality then you have found it. Welcome home!

Video will be coming over the next week or two, so please check back! There’s more information here … or feel free to contact me!

After nursing my iPhone along for 3 years (including a screen replacement) I’ve finally upgraded  to the market leading, Android phone. I must say, after almost 10 years of Windows devices, the iPhone was by far, the best phone I ever owned but… I’m one to long for more. Since I’m stuck with AT&T (unlimited data plan) I was considering the Infuse but as soon as they started selling it, I heard about the upcoming Galaxy S2 which was supposed to be released May of 2011. After a couple of let downs and many months later, it finally hit the stores October 2′nd.

My initial impressions? I think this is now the best phone I’ve ever had! Excellent user interface and great online functionality. I can access our MLS easily and can access all of my files with Dropbox. I can create, view and edit documents with QuickOffice. I can access, create and edit blog and social media posts. It has a fantastic camera and I’ll be “filming” my next neighborhood or home video tour with it

If I have something to complain about it would be the battery. The iPhone holds a charge longer and is much quicker to recharge. The Galaxy S2 has to be “tweaked” to extend battery life and if empty takes 3-4 hours to fully recharge.

I’m enjoying my new real estate “assistant” to help me with my marketing and home sales. I am very pleased to be living in this time and I fully embrace all the changes that technology brings.