You know the old adage: "What's the difference between Recession and Depression? Recession is when your neighbor is unemployed; Depression is when you are unemployed!" That is to say, your perspective is determined by your own situation. Well, if you are active in the real estate market today, it's the same thing. If you are a buyer having finally found your dream home, and at what seems like a bargain price, things look pretty good. However, if you are a seller whose home is still on the market after nine months and if, in spite of several listing price reductions, you still don't have an offer, the market is definitely depressed. Or if you are a buyer looking for an affordable home in an attractive neighborhood and, after searching for months, still haven't found anything, the market is still in a slump.

So the point is, simply put, it's not helpful to generalize or oversimplify as to what is happening in the real estate market here in the DC area. The market does seem to be improving; let's wait a little before drawing any conclusions.

In particular, look carefully at conclusions that are based upon "statistical averages", especially if they are national or regional in scope. In many cases they may not be relevant to your specific situation.  Whether you are buying or selling, get the facts and evaluate the factors that relate to your own city and your specific neighborhood of interest.

This is not a bad market for either buyers or sellers. There is opportunity for everyone. You just need to understand what's happening in your market and plan accordingly. In a slump? in a rebound? It really doesn't matter. What matters is your understanding of the relevant factors that are going to have an impact, either positive or negative, on the achievement of your specific goals.

Remember, a real estate professional is the best resource to help you achieve your goals. For all your real estate needs in the DC  area, give me a call.

Woodmont Glen, Lake Ridge  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 3401 Carly Lane on March 11 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

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As the cold air moves in, many homeowners look to find ways to keep heating costs down by insulating their homes from the icy temperatures. Fortunately, you can follow a few simple steps to guard against cold-weather damage and keep those energy bills from skyrocketing in the winter months.

Guard against air leaks. Even a small draft can make a big impact on your monthly heating bill. Check for leaks by lighting a stick of incense and holding it near possible draft areas. If the smoke gets sucked in or blown out, you have an air leak. Be sure to check windows, door frames and points where materials meet (e.g. wood and brick or foundation and wall). Most drafts can be fixed with caulking. Drafts under your door can be fixed with weather stripping, which is available at most hardware stores.

Protect against icy pipes and gutters. Ice formation in outdoor pipes and gutters can cause them to crack or burst, resulting in serious damage come springtime. Be sure to shut off the water valve for all outdoor pipes. As an extra precaution, you can also purchase pipe insulation and slip it onto outdoor piping. Be sure to clear out all gutters. Any debris could cause a water blockage that may result in ice damage to your gutters or roof.

Insulate, Insulate, Insulate. The biggest money and energy-saver for your home this winter is good insulation. Older homes tend to have significantly less insulation than newer ones, so it pays to check it out. The U.S. Department of Energy says that adding new insulation will pay for itself within a few years through lower energy bills. Areas that need the most insulation are attics, cathedral ceilings, exterior walls and foundations.  

Be smart about carbon monoxide. Winter is the most dangerous time for carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect your family by purchasing a carbon monoxide detector, or if you already own one, be sure to test the batteries. It is also important to have a professional check your furnace for carbon monoxide

Live and play in Belmont Bay

• 1,930 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm single story - MLS® $509,900 - One of a kind!

Belmont Bay, Woodbridge  -  Not another condo like this one in the building. Top floor with custom enhancements throughout. Upgraded carpet, custom paint, one of a kind raised ceilings, fans, fireplace and built in entertainment center. Balcony with stunning view of the golf course, nature reserve and Occoquan River. Building has all the amenites you could ask for including private pool and exercise room.

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Only minutes to the metro!

• 2,400 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 3 story - MLS® SALE PENDING $465,000 - Half acre of privacy

Springvale, Springfield  -  Live in the woods and still get to the metro in 10 minutes. Absolutely charming 4BR, 2BA Cape Cod in Springvale on level half-acre wooded lot with enclosed sun porch, 2 fully-tiled bathrooms, new carpeting, freshly painted with refinished beautiful hardwood floors on the upper level,newer appliances, new 200amp heavy-up circuit box & wiring, garage/workshop & mature landscaping.

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Rare Coltrane Model

• 2 bath, 2 bdrm single story - MLS® $525,000 - Active Adult Living!

Hiddenbrooke, Springfield  -  Rare Coltrane model in sold out Hiddenbrooke community. First floor model features a large living room with gas fireplace. Full size dining room. Kitchen with upgraded cabinets and corian counters. Den off kitchen. Large master suite with full bath and large closets. Guest suite on opposite side of the unit. Full size raised washer and dryer. This unit has a patio and backs to incredible open space and wooded area. Watch the deer in the morning. Community has a wonderful outdoor patio with grill and club room. Don't want to drive? Take the free shuttle to the metro, mall or grocery store. Hiddenbrooke community SOLD OUT when it was first offered for sale due to its great ammenities and location. Don't miss your chance to get in now.

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