Falls Church Fall Real Estate Guide 2022

Real

upgrading a kitchen can bring value to your home.

14

Rates and how they affect you?

19

Church House Experts.

16–17

Kitchen Remodeling: What Adds to a Higher Home Value?

BY KYLEE TOLAND FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

When it comes to the remodeling of one’s house, most of the main focus can go into the place where a family comes together to socialize and enjoy a meal.

Kitchens, along with bathrooms, have been considered to be the most important selling and remodeling points in a home. In recent years, the value of a home can be increased based on the kitchen itself, with certain trends adding to that value.

Patty Oldham is the branch manager for Reico Kitchen & Bath in Falls Church. She said remodeling a kitchen “definitely adds value to the home,” especially as the market becomes “more competitive with new homes being built in desirable areas like Falls Church.”

Depending on one’s budget and what is important to a person within a project, Oldham said remodeling a kitchen can involve “fundamental changes” such as updated cabinetry, installing new countertops and fixtures, adding backsplash or

building out a kitchen island, as well as adding “energy-efficient appliances” to add more value.

Jenn Zschunke is the director of customer experience and community relations at Moss Building and Design. She said the kitchen is “the heart of the home,” due to families spending a lot of time together there as well as serving as a place for “entertainment” rather than just making meals. Zschunke also stated that having a kitchen that has “modern features” and “a few bells and whistles” adds to the value of a home.

One modern feature that has become popular in recent years is adding technological advancements into a kitchen. Also known as “smart kitchens,” these technologies can range from motion sense-equipped kitchen faucets that can sense the presence of one’s hands, or simple outlets for one to charge their devices.

David Foster, the president and CEO of Foster Remodeling Solutions, said adding charging stations to a kitchen is a “common feature” in a kitchen nowadays; whether it be placed

KITCHENS CAN HAVE various modern features that add to the home value, such as electric outlets and an island. (P���� C�������: S��� F�����)

in a drawer so one doesn’t have to see their electronic device, or placed somewhere where one can work on and charge their device while being in their kitchen.

“I would say kitchens are one

of the spaces that probably add the most value to the home,” Foster said. “It helps with resale also, if somebody was to decide to sell a home.”

Another feature that has become common but still is

popular among buyers and sellers is the installation of a kitchen island. In her experience, Zschunke said having a “beautiful island” in the central part of

Exceptional Sales Team For Listing and Selling Homes.

Let us help you build wealth through real estate. It’s our passion.

Voted Best Property Manager in Falls Church four years running!

Focusing on your success.

REAL ESTATE

A Falls Church News-Press Advertorial

Meet Your House Experts

Tori McKinney - ROCK STAR Realty Group, KW Metro Center

As you embark on your real estate journey, it is important to have the right real estate agent on your side. Trust ROCK STAR Realty Group, your neighborhood expert, to help you navigate the way.

My Group strives to be the most trusted and connected Realtors® in Falls Church City and beyond. My respected and experienced team and I are pas sionate about helping buyers find the homes they love, and providing sellers with a seamless sale from start to finish. My #1 aspiration is to bring my cli ents joy, calm, and confidence with one of life’s biggest decisions. Your housing dreams are our utmost priority. We look forward to guiding you!

Each Wednesday, I’m at Northside Social Falls Church from 10:00-11:00 AM for my ROCK the House Coffee Hour. Please join me to discuss your housing needs and questions about the market over coffee. See you there!

Cheers - Tori

703.867.8674 • RockStarRealtyGroup.com

Ken Trotter, Silver Line Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

Ken Trotter is the founder and principal agent of the Silver Line Group and regularly recognized as one of Washington, DC’s top producing Realtors®. While the heart of the team’s practice is in Falls Church, the team also regularly repre sents buyers and sellers along the Silver Line corridor from DC to the Dulles.

Ken’s team regularly sets sales records and knows how to maximize a seller’s net return with: strategic home preparation, optimal market position ing, skilled negotiations, leveraging multiple-offer scenarios, and first-rate marketing.

If you are selling your home, please reach out to learn how to get everything you deserve.

703.606.1122 • SilverLineHouses.com

Pam Micciche, Keller Williams

Pam Micciche of the HBC Group KW works hard for her clients by focusing on the essen tials: strong relationships, honesty, and an unflagging commitment to the cli ent’s best interest. As a native Washingtonian and a resident of Falls Church for almost 20 years, Pam knows this market inside and out. She lives in town with her husband, two kids and one very spoiled dog. Reach out to Pam when you are considering selling, buying, renting or investing so that she can put her strengths in negotiating to work for your real estate needs.

The HBC Group consistently sells over 100 residential properties annually ranging from multi-million dollar luxury estates to $300,000 condominiums and townhomes.

Kathy Pippin, Samson Properties

Kathy Pippin grew up in Northern Virginia, and received an engineering degree in Maryland. Her methodical approach and local knowledge, coupled with her negotiation skills and top-notch marketing, have well equipped her to serve her clients, whether first-time home buyers, repeat buyers, sellers, or inves tors. She is pragmatic and has a consultative approach when helping clients buy or sell. She has a dedicated team to produce successful outcomes for each sale. Kathy believes in giving back to the community and supporting local and national charities in the areas of children’s cancer research, survivors of abuse, and worldwide medical assistance.

Pippin believes in educating her clients.

Albert Bitici

I live, work, and raise my children in Falls Church and am a strong advocate of our wonderful community. I bring over 15 years of real estate experience, in sales, rentals, and renovation gained from working in the New York and London real estate markets. Bred from a family of small business own ers I understand the importance of consistently delivering a high level of customer service to all my clients. I have created a brand which provides the right advice to clients, backed by the highest level of customer service, and the best marketing. Which is why The Bitici Group attracts forward-thinking clients and exceptional real estate to prove that fantastic results are achieved with a bespoke, tailored approach.

For a smarter, personalized approach to buying and selling, contact our award winning real estate team, The Bitici Group at Keller Williams Metro Center.!

albert@thebiticigroup.com

Julie Andre

Julie Andre is an area native and highly experienced Senior Mortgage Officer with UNFCU, lending in all 50 States. She provides valuable solutions and education for all home loan types and sizes. Julie provides individualized attention to borrowers from pre-approval through closing. First-time buyers, move-up buyers, downsizers, self-employed, investors, second homes, cash buyers seeking delayed financing, foreign nationals and more. In addition to weekdays, Julie is available evenings and weekends. Feel free to reach out by phone/text (703) 237-0333 or email jandre@unfcu.com.

703.237.0333 • jandre@unfcu.com

Louise Molton

Last Summer we were talking about Covid - this fall it’s all about interest rates. So what does this mean if you are trying to sell your home right now? We are still in a seller’s market in Falls Church and Arlington because we are still experiencing a lack of inventory, which is helping to keep prices relatively stable. Money has become more expensive for buyers so their purchasing power has been reduced, but banks are responding by bringing out new products that will help in this market. We haven’t seen ARM’s for a while, but the Adjustable Rate Mortgage is back and some other products that are help ing to keep the housing market afloat. I love challenging markets! It makes my 20 years of real estate experience count, so please call me for a free, no obligation consultation and let me put my experience to work for you!

agentlouise@gmail.com

JD Callander and Ed Blanchard

JD Callander and Ed Blanchard with Weichert Realtors both call Falls Church City home and bring over 25 years of combined real estate experience and passion to their work. They are well-known and respected agents and demonstrate success through integrity in all that they do.

They understand the market, are attentive to details and truly care about their client’s needs. They also love giving back to their beloved community through sponsoring the FCC Memorial Day Fun Run, HTG Games benefitting Falls Church City ES/PTA plus many smaller events.

www.NewNovaHome.com

ESTATE

A Falls Church News-Press Advertorial

Meet Your House Experts

Jennifer Talati

Jennifer Talati is a long time resident of Falls Church and a supporter of all things music and arts within the community. As a multi-million dollar agent with the Long & Foster Arlington/Falls Church office, she brings over 20 years experience listing and sell ing homes throughout Northern Virginia to the table with both dedication and high energy in the role. Jennifer specializes in the close-in neighborhoods of Arlington, McLean, Falls Church, Annandale and Alexandria.

703.944.3874

Founders Row

Jennifer.Talati@longandfoster.com

Welcome to Founders Row - Falls Church’s newest retail destination, managed by Mill Creek Residential. Founders Row is home to two residential communities- Modera Founders Row, a luxury apartment community, and VERSO Founders Row, a col lection of designer 55+ apartment homes. There are many restaurants and retailers on board (Chasin’ Tails, Ellie Bird and Club Pilates to name a few!), creating a one-stop shop for its residents. “Founders Row was always envisioned to elevate the dining and entertainment experience in the City of Falls Church,” said Joe Muffler, managing director of development. Enjoy shopping, dining and luxury amenities right outside your door!

571.370.3201 • VersoFoundersRow.com

FOXCRAFT Design Group

FOXCRAFT Design Group is in their 33rd year as an award-winning design/build firm and gen eral contractor. What is the secret to longevity in such a competitive marketplace?

“We understand adapting homes for growing families and the importance that a neighborhood plays in family life,” explains FOXCRAFT president and owner Chandler Fox.

FOXCRAFT is among the most creative, experienced design/build firms in the region, specializing in meeting clients’ budget expectations and overcoming ever changing national and county codes, regulations and guidelines. “We’ve done it all,” Fox says. “Clients come back to us many times for additional projects. We are problem solvers and trusted advisors.”

703.536.1888 • www.FOXCRAFT.com

DuBro Architects + Builders

DuBro Architects + Builders have been transforming our clients’ homes for 20 years. We care deeply for our clients and the community within which we work. We are driven by the integra tion of insightful design and expert craftsmanship infused with a spirit of integrity and innovation. LOVE YOUR HOME.

703.533.7464 • www.dubro.net

MOSS Building & Design

Since 2001, MOSS Building & Design has established a reputation for excellence in remodeling additions, kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and home services through out Northern Virginia. Their customers see them as a trusted partner, and MOSS Building & Design is very proud that over 85 percent of their customers consider themselves ‘customers for life.’ MOSS Building & Design has won consumer awards from Angie’s List for eight consecu tive years and also has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau as well as many industry building and design awards. Recent notable accolades include the 2022 PRO Mid-Atlantic Remodeler of the Year Awards in three categories, including two Grand Prize winning remodels.

www.mossbuildinganddesign.com

N-Hance of Fairfax

Mark Donnelly, owner of N-Hance of Fairfax, NW, a local franchisee of the #1 Cabinet Refinishing Company in the US. We offer our clients affordable options to update their homes. Whether you are looking to renew aging cabinets, want to brighten your kitchen with a lighter color, or follow the latest color trends, we can help bring a whole new look to your kitchen. Furthermore, if your cabinet boxes are solid, but your doors are dated, we can also do a re-dooring to a more modern style (like Shaker), without the mess, expense or duration of a traditional remodel.

My team and I look forward to hearing from you and seeing how we can help to create the kitchen of your dreams.

• FairfaxNW@nhancelocal.com

Reico Kitchen & Bath

Your dream, our ideas and expertise. Reico Kitchen & Bath takes your dated, tired kitchens and bathrooms and transforms them into spaces you love and want to spend time in. Established in 1952, Reico Kitchen & Bath is your one-stop for kitchen and bath room design and remodeling. We offer cabinets, countertops, appliances, sinks, fixtures and everything you need to create your new kitchen or bathroom. It is our goal to have every customer recommend us at our Falls Church, VA showroom or at any of our 23 showrooms throughout the Mid and South Atlantic.

703.748.0700 • reico.com

The Mather

The Mather, projected to open in 2024, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62+. It’s smack dab in the middle of it all, bordering a three-acre urban park and within walking distance of Tysons rail service, retail, and restau rants. The Mather’s apartment homes feature expansive views, luxury finishes, and smart-home technology. The Mather will feature 38,000+ square feet of amenities, including restaurants, spa, fitness center, indoor pool, rooftop clubroom, art studio, and more! Life Plan Communities are lifestyle communities in which people can pursue new passions and priorities, with a plan in place that supports aging well.

703.348.8522 • themathertysons.com

GreenBuilt Homes

GreenBuilt Homes is an award-winning, environmentally-friendly builder based in Falls Church City. We blend traditional architectural appeal with technologically advanced designs and features to provide quality-crafted homes at an exceptional value as we revitalize the urban neighborhoods of Falls Church City, Arlington County, and select neighborhoods in Fairfax County. GreenBuilt was founded in 2001 and builds all its homes to meet the requirements of Energy Star and the NAHB’s Green Standard. GreenBuilt is a proud supporter of the Falls Church City Public Schools and staff, FCEF, and Mary Riley Stiles Library.

703.593.2160 • www.greenbuilthomes.net

Peake Management, Inc.

Lindsey Peake was raised with a passion for real estate that has extended through 3 generations. An avid investor herself, she works hard to find good investment properties and homes for clients. Not all houses make good rental property, that’s where experience helps. With a 40-year history in Northern Virginia, the company is strong and well-estab lished. The focus is always on the client, whether listing a home for sale, buying the perfect home, or managing property.

A strong believer that long term property ownership creates wealth.

• www.peakeinc.com

Kitchen Remodeling: What Adds to a Higher Home Value?

the kitchen has been popular among Moss’s customers.

Whether it comes with more storage room or a “beautiful, stone countertop,” Zschunke said an island is a “great way to gather” for a family meal rather than a dining room table.

Foster added that Foster Remodeling Solutions has seen “a lot of islands being added” to a kitchen if homes don’t already have them. He stated islands can be used as a work surface for both adults and children, as well as being a place for people to sit and be “a part of what’s going on in the kitchen without being in the way of the cook.” Some people may want to add cooking stations or sinks to their islands as well.

Having quality storage places with high end cabinetry as well as incorporating “unique colors” in a kitchen can add to a home’s value. These types of cabinets can include a “Lazy Susan,” a rotating, tray-shaped platform that can be placed inside corner cabinets; or a “racetrack design” that simply

allows a cabinet to be pulled in and out. Zschunke said having both of these features can add to the “aesthetic” of one’s home.

Mark Donnelly, the owner of NHance of Fairfax NW, said coloring one’s cabinets can give the kitchen a “brand new look at a fraction of the cost of a remodel.”

If the cabinets are “still solid” but the doors are “old-fashioned,” re-

dooring is a “great, cost-effective way to modernize one’s kitchen.”

“Now with people opening up their homes, the kitchen is really a part of the homes; look and feel and design overall,” Zschunke said. “I think people are looking for ways to kind of make their design style, look and feel kind of spread throughout the kitchen.”

REFINISHING CABINETS also can add to the value of one’s home. (P����: M��� D�������)

KITCHENS NOWADAYS are not only for cooking and eating, but also for entertaining and socializing. (P����: M��� B������� � D�����)

The Fed Has Challenged Inflation to a Duel

by Nick Gatz Falls Church News-Press

The Fed, and more specifically its Federal Open Market Committee, is attempting to combat inflation. The Fed and Chairman Jerome Powell are increas ing interest rates, using monetary policy to rein in price increases. If inflation proves to be too powerful, they may not be able to contain these price increases. Worse, this duel could cause collater al damage. Increasing our low level of unemployment or diminishing corpo rate and consumer confidence, pushing stocks further into bear market territory.

Our banking system is managed by the Federal Reserve among many other federal agencies. The Federal Reserve was established with a mandate to maxi mize employment, stabilize pricing, and moderate interest rates. You may have heard in September that the Federal Funds rate increased 75 basis points (0.75 percent) to 3.25 percent. The Federal Funds Rate is what commercial banks charge to borrow and lend to one another overnight. Commercial banks in turn lend this money with a spread above it to businesses and consumers.

Mortgage rates begin to increase, increasing monthly payments quite dra matically. As of 2020, an average 30 year loan was comprised of 33 percent inter est. Financing the same amount today would amount to 57 percent as interest. Payments would increase 50 percent on the same home and same down pay ment. Affordability in The Little City is becoming even more distant for those looking to buy. As buyers begin looking at properties within lower price points,

others sit on the market longer as sellers consider price cuts.

Not only are mortgages affected, but almost all types of loans. When the cost of borrowing increases, companies and individuals tend to consider spending cuts. As companies observe decreasing demand, they may temper price increases or contemplate price reductions for their products. Today, we may be in a period where the average consumer is evaluating substitutes to meet their budgets, instead of foregoing a purchase altogether. This only muddies the water further. When the Fed increases interest rates, compa nies of all sizes and types are affected and have to contemplate these changes. What alternative measures can the government take with fiscal policy?

Most of these actions include target ing specific products or services. For example the Inflation Reduction Act aims, among other things, to reduce the cost of specific drugs. Targeting systemic problems may correct flaws related to drug pricing; however economist believe reducing one product is not an impactful action for the economy as a whole.

Other fiscal policies targeting infla tion, include the aim to reduce gas prices. As you drive down Washington St, it is easy to notice the price of gas has contin ued to fall. This will certainly influence inflation, but how sustainable is it? Is it possible to see sub $3.00 prices again without an end to the war in Ukraine?

The Fed’s next meeting is November 1-2. Jerome Powell stated “The chances of a soft landing are likely to diminish to the extent that policy needs to be more restrictive, or restric tive for longer” and the Fed is “committed to getting inflation back down to 2 percent.”