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Mary De Luca
REALTOR, Certified Buyer Agent
Long & Foster Realtors
Licensed in VA
4800 S. 31st Street
Arlington, VA 22206
Cell: 703-772-5555
E-Mail: Mary.DeLuca@LnF.com
Office: 703-998-3111



July 4, 2008, 5:21 pm

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Mary De Luca, Real Estate Professional in Arlington


Archive for the 'Ballston' Category



Just When You Thought Ballston Was Complete: A New Project

Bob Peck rendition

Arlington County announced a new development project on the corner of North Glebe & Wilson Blvd. Also known as old the Bob Peck site, the new project will include:

Ballston 140I drove around there today and realized that it’s very big space– almost 5 acres. That’s pricey real estate across from the metro $26 Million to be exact when the Peck family sold it to JBG in 2006. That’s a little more than $5M/acre!

There were also two old homes boarded up on Wakefield and another small apartment building that appear to be part of the project as is the Staples, according to the press release.

Ballston 150These new buildings will compliment the Ballston Mall and the other new building that emerge in recent years. One-by-one Arlington has lost it’s old landmarks. The latest, Bob Peck, was a car dealership with its 1950s retro entrance, has been around even longer. The Washington Post had a nostalgic send off when the dealership closed in 2006.

It was a time when Arlington was almost a small town– part of the post WWII boom. If you ever get a chance to watch an Arlington Historical Society show on cable access- you will hear some of those residents talk about growing up in Arlington. It sounded like a real Leave It To Beaver neighborhood.

Ballston 147Today its a whole another Arlington. As I roam Arlington showing property I can see the many layers of Arlington. There are the farm houses that have been here since the early 1900s, the Sears Bungalows from the 1920s-30s, the colonial developments from post-WWII boom, 70s decay, 80s revitalization up until the high-tech buildings of today.

I guess when the Bob Peck Dealership went up in the 1950s, there was someone that said- gee, with all this development I’m going to have to ride my horses all the way out in Bailey’s Crossroads.

Chevy503

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Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: 4 Comments »



3Q07 Arlington Sales: 1,831 Reasons Why Arlington Beats the National Trend

I haven’t been known to publish much Arlington real estate sales data on this blog. Mostly because I’m still testing the best way to present it. So bear with me while I give you some numbers. Sooner or later I’ll find a format that I like.

Clarendon 07 (2)And don’t worry– I’m not going to list 1,831 lines of data. But– you know what that number is? It’s a way to get your attention. NVAR released it’s 3Q07 sales data. They publish all sorts of interesting and not so interesting stuff. It depends on your point of view. If you want to see it all– by county for the metropolitan area, by zip code, I encourage you to visit their website to get your number fix.

But, if you don’t have the time and want to know the Arlington sales for 3Q07, stick around.

Note– these numbers does not discriminate between condos, townhomes and single family homes.

1,831 – the number of homes still on the market 9.30.07 – the last day of the quarter.

45 – the average number of days on the market for all Arlington homes sold in the third quarter of 2007.

$571,900 - the average sales price for homes sold in Arlington.

95.9% is the average amount of money a person got in their sold price when compared to their original list price.

11.1% – the average increase– yes, I said increase, in the sales prices for Arlington homes sold in 3Q07 when compared to the 3Q06.

Ballston MallNow, these numbers are put together by economists employed by the Realtors Association. So you would expect a certain spin. Well, the data doesn’t spin. Sometimes my head spins when I have to look at all this data- but the data, in itself, doesn’t spin.

What does have spin– after all, we are in Washington, DC, where everything has spin; where the term spin doctor originated; where people make a very good business out of being Spin Drs, but I digress. What does have spin: the economists’ opinion. And what is their spin? That on a scale of 1–5 where 1 is a total buyer’s market and 5 is a total seller’s market, Arlington is a 3. Yes - it’s right in the middle.

I don’t depend on an economist’s opinion to tell me how the Arlington real estate market is running. After all– I’m in the middle of the market everyday. I know how I feel about the market. So I look at the data– toss is around in my head. Then I agree or disagree.

This month I agree.

Here’s why:

  1. I’ve been busy all year with people interested in buying Arlington real estate;
  2. All my appraisals for my sales have come in OVER the sales price;
  3. I have competed– yes competed– with other buyer agents for the same listing;
  4. Arlington unemployment is still under 2% (1.9% to be exact). That’s considered a worker’s shortage. So people are moving here with new jobs.

I spend a good amount of time trying to make this chart look pretty and fancy and use colors that match my blog. I just have to post it here. It is all the Arlington zip codes and the percent change of sales of 3Q07 sales when compared to 3Q06 sales.

Arlington 3Q07 Sales data

This chart says that all the zip codes in Arlington, except for Shirlington, have seen an increase in the average sales price when you compare 3Q07 to 3Q06. Why Shirlington? After all– I write about Shirlington all the time and what a great place it is to live. Well I don’t have the answer for that right now- but I’m going to look a little deeper into it. I suspect it may have something to do with Fairlington sales, which make up the largest part of the sales.

Just in case you can’t read the chart- here are the data points:

So– if you are waiting for the prices to drop in Arlington, maybe Arlington isn’t for you. Maybe you aren’t ready to buy. Maybe it’s a lot of things.

But I can tell you this– it isn’t because the real estate market is bad in Arlington. The data doesn’t lie.

Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: 8 Comments »



The Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden in Arlington, VA

10 024It’s almost mid-October and it was 92 degrees today here in the DC area. We broke a record set back in the 1930s. I can’t even imagine what it was like to live in 92 degrees in the 1930s. It was the time before air-conditioning. So hot was hot- there was no escape.

I know what the houses were like in the 1930s because we still have many of them around. It was before WWII, FDR was president & the term “urban sprawl” wasn’t even a concept, let alone the common place it is here today. Yes, life was different in the 1930s.

10 036croppedSo instead of searching for the beautiful color of the changing leaves, I went to the Bon Air Rose Garden today. The roses where still in bloom and the leaves at still green. I love this little park. It’s maintained by the county and has a loyal following. I’m glad that Arlington County has given us a rose garden.

The smell of roses just fill the air. The bike path passes right through it. There are rows and rows of roses. A few tennis courts, basketball & volleyball courts, a tot lot and lawns with picnic tables to sit.

The Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden sits off of Wilson Blvd on North Jefferson Street. I wonder what it would be like to live in the houses across the street from this rose garden. As you leave for work each day- you can really stop to smell the roses.

So while I wait for the leaves to change and fall to arrive– I hope you will enjoy my visit to the rose garden.

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There is another rose garden in the DC area more people have heard about- it sits behind the gates of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. I was fortunate to visit that rose garden once. I was disappoint. It’s nothing like Arlington’s rose garden. But much more historic for sure and visited by people more famous than me.

West Wing Tour August 2006 016

 

 

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Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: 3 Comments »



Wilson Blvd & Oakland Street: The Start of Something Big?

Virginia Square 014

I was driving down Wilson Blvd on Saturday heading to pick up clients and had a “WOW” reaction when I saw the tearing down of this building on the corner of Wilson Blvd & Oakland Street. I often see the cranes going up and the buildings being built– but rarely get to see the destruction that precedes the new birth.

While there is no sign up yet on what’s to come, it appears to be the home of a new residential building– The Amelia Residences at Virginia Square.

Virginia Square 016Originally scheduled as am 8–story building with 108 unit condominium, 147 underground parking spaces and 3500 square feet of retail at street level, it is now simply called a “residence.” In Developer speak that means that there is a possibility that is won’t be offered as a condo- but as rental apartments instead. The developer is Dittmar- which is a long-time local builder with a solid reputation. Even Arlington County’s press release from 2004 would not commit to condos.

Virginia Square 008This is a great location– between Ballston & Virginia Square Metros. Virginia Square is the home of the George Mason Law School and still one of the least developed areas of the Orange Line Corridor.

3801 Wilson Blvd– keep you eyes on it.

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Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: 4 Comments »



Ballston Arts & Craft Market: Support Your Local Artist

Ballston Craft Market002_edited

We had a break in the weather around here in DC this weekend. It was a perfect time to enjoy some outdoor events.

It’s a rare Saturday when I don’t have to work– I took advantage of the perfect weather to visit the Ballston Arts & Craft Market in Welburn Square at 9th & Stuart Streets, North, in Ballston. Check out their Blog for the scheduled vendors & music at the next two markets.

Ballston Craft Market009_editedHeld on the second Saturday of each month between June & October, it’s a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, meet some local artists & support the local economy. There was even some live music.

I did some early Christmas shopping & met some talented artists. It’s not a big event, instead small & local. Just the right size. These are my favorite vendors where I dropped a dollar or two.

Artisan Frame & Photo Work (Paige Ireland, Photographer)

I just loved Paige’s photography. Original work, NOT digitally enhanced. Great shots around DC, vintage cars & other eye catching work. Her original touch is creating framed windows with her work.

Lemair Handcrafts (Lisa Lemar & Christopher Proto)

Original pottery that really caught my eye. They also create unique items from jewelry to handbags. Their pottery is lead-free & dishwasher safe.

HadMatter(Erika Rubel)

Erika’s work just may have been my favorite of the day. Very unique designs using vintage postcards & other materials for original art that doubles a place to hang your keys & other things.

Maverick Chic & Accessories (Lara Wheeler)

Lara didn’t just take beads and make jewelry– she used her imagination and created bookmarks, ornaments for your cell phone, sneakers & my favorite– little creations for the zippers of your sweaters & pull-overs.

The next Arts & Craft Market events Saturday September 18th and October 13th 10AM-4PM after that. Hope to see you there.

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Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: 4 Comments »



This Sunday Visit Two Wonderful Arlington Open Houses- 1-4 PM

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For Sale: Stately Brick Colonial in North Arlington, VA.

 

 

 

 

 

Longing For Luxury? Incredible Price for N. Arlington Colonial

 

Main Photo

Location: Highview Park


This stately five bedroom, three full bath, one half bath, brick colonial is in a class all by itself. Located on a corner lot in North Arlington, you’ll love coming home to this magnificent property.

Picture-perfect condition with:
- Chef’s kitchen
- Family Room Large Enough For Your Grand Piano
- FOUR upper level bedrooms
- Master Bedroom Suite, With Walk-In Closets
- Dressing Area & Soaking Tub/Separate Shower in the Master Bath
- Finished LL In-law Apartment w/ 2nd Kitchen & Private Entrance
- Main Level Washer/Dryer
- Designer Touches You Expect to See In An Executive Home such as columned entryway to living room, crown molding & hardwood floors.

A convenient location comes with this prestigious colonial. Close to Ballston & Lee Highway Shopping & Restaurants- it is centrally located to the Ballston Metro, I66, DC and everything else that makes living in Arlington one of the most desired addresses in DC & Northern Virginia.

Imagine living in this stately brick colonial creating your own traditions for your growing life. Whether you are hosting a black tie affair, a child’s birthday party or just the Redskins game with friends- this home will make you shine. Spacious but not overwhelming, this home with suit your executive lifestyle at a price rarely seen in North Arlington.

In addition to the great living area, there is an oversized two car garage, a lower level that is above ground for extra light, and a beautiful garden. The lower level has a second kitchen, full bathroom and bedroom. It is perfect as an au pair or in-law suite.

It is priced to sell, so don’t miss your chance to move to North Arlington, VA.

The Listing Agent for 1900 Culpeper N is Ingrid Wooten.
Call the Buyer Agent, Mary De Luca for an appointment to view this property. Cell: 571-237-5843
Both Ingrid & Mary are Real Estate Agents for Long & Foster Realtors and are licensed in Virginia.





 

Photo Gallery

 

Formal Dining Room with Crown MoldingWarm Family RoomHuge Recreation RoomKitchen with center islandBreakfast Area off the KitchenMaster BedroomLower Leven KitchenSide-entrance 2 car garageOver-sized 2 car garageYardStately Stone Formal Living RoomMaster BathMaster Bath/Dressing Area

 

 

Information

 

Contact Information

Logo

Association Logo

Mary De Luca

571-237-5843

Mary.DeLuca@longandfoster…

 

Pricing

Asking Price: $949,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

1900 Culpeper Street, N
Arlington, VA 22207

Links

 

Visit My Blog

 

Features

 

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 3

Parking: Paved Driveway

Year Built: 2001

Subdivision: Highview Park

Lot Size: 8,743

Garage Size: 2

School District: Yorktown

Agent Name: Mary De Luca

Broker: Long & Foster

MLS #: AR6480190

Taxes: 6,507

Levels: 3

HOA Fee: No HOA Fee

Attributes

 

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

 

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Kitchen Island

Vaulted Ceilings

Basement

 

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Automatic Sprinkler

 

Powered by vFlyer.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY VFLYER ID: 1220003

Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: No Comments »



For Sale: Vintage Arlington Brick Colonial

 

 

 

 

 

Classic Brick Colonial in Arlington Forest

 

Main Photo

Location: Arlington Forest

Commuter Blues? Find the cure in this charming 3 bedroom/2 full bath traditional colonial on a shady tree-lined street in historic Arlington Forest.

Life is easy inside the beltway. You’d never guess you’re close to Ballston metro, shops & offices. Or walk down the street to the nature trail in Lubber Run Park where you can enjoy a summer concert at the Amphitheater. If that’s not enough, the listing agent will include a one year membership to the Arlington Forest Club for swimming & tennis.

Take a Sunday stroll through one of Arlington’s first neighborhoods. Established in 1939, it is adorned with tall old trees, winding streets & traditional colonials. You’ll enjoy coming home to Arlington Forest.

The home at 344 Edison Avenue is vintage Arlington charm with its beaming hardwood floors throughout the 1st & 2nd levels. This well-maintained home includes many special touches such as plantation shutters in the living & dining rooms; sun room/den extension with exposed brick; finished basement for a recreation room with built-in shelves and full bath. Each bedroom on the 2nd level has its hardwood exposed- not covered with carpet.

You will enjoy summer entertaining on the back yard patio opening to the large flat yard. There is even a garden shed that can switch to a child’s playhouse.

Arlington Forest is located between Carlin Springs Road & Arlington Blvd. Enjoy the convenience of being close to Ballston without paying the prices. It is great commuting for its residents where someone is working in Tyson’s Corner or beyond and the other person is working in Arlington or DC. You have easy access to both Ballston to the north & west and Route 50 to the east & south. Minutes from DC, the Pentagon, Seven Corners and National Airport.

The neighborhood is listed as a historic community by Virginia. Arlington Forest prides itself on being a neighborhood community with it’s own newsletter, Citizens Association & neighborhood activities.

This is a perfect starter home for those people that want to live in Arlington but can’t afford the prices of homes closer to the orange line metro. It’s large flat lot gives you lots of room to grow your life so you can be here for a long time.

Call Mary De Luca, REALTOR, Accredited Buyer’s Agent, for an appointment to see. Mary is the buyer agent for this property. Call 571-237-5843
This property is listed by Susan Sheedy, REALTOR
Both Mary & Susan are REALTORs for Long & Foster Realtors and are licensed in Virginia.

 

Photo Gallery

 

Beaming Hardwood Floors ThroughOpen Living Room with Plantation ShuttersComforting Den off kitchen lFormal Dining RoomHardwood floors Clean updated KitchenMaster BedroomFinished Basement Rec Room with Full BathEntertaining Patio for Outdoor FunGarden ShedLarge fllat back yardWalk to Lubber Run for Summer Conerts Arlington Forest Club Pool Get to Know Youu Neighbors Close to Ballston

 

 

Information

 

Contact Information

Logo

Association Logo

Mary De Luca

571-237-5843

Mary.DeLuca@longandfoster…

 

Pricing

Asking Price: $618,500.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

344 Edison Street N.
Arlington, VA 22203

Links

 

Read my Blog

Read more about Arlington Forest

 

Features

 

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Parking: Driveway

Year Built: 1941

Subdivision: Arlington Forest

Lot Size: 6,050

Garage Size: None

School District: Washington-Lee

Agent Name: Mary De Luca

Broker: Long & Foster

MLS #: AR6493000

Taxes: $4,855

Levels: 3

HOA Fee: NONE

Attributes

 

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

 

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Attic

Build-in Book Shelves

Plantation Shutters

Replacement Windows

 

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Tool Shed

Covered Entrance Porch

 

Powered by vFlyer.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY VFLYER ID: 1201841

Authored by Mary DeLuca | Discussion: No Comments »

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