Sun Gazette Arlington June 26, 2014 by Northern Virginia Media Services

INSIDE

NVSL swimming competition kicks off across region – Page 15

2014 Summer REAL ESTATE Guide

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Highs & Lows Letters 55+ News Police Beat Classified Crossword Local History

“A Tradition of Exceptional Service and Success” Bret Brock, NVAR Liftetime Top Producer

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SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

Graduating seniors who benefited from AHC Inc.’s Project Discovery teen-tutoring program were honored June 16 for their achievements. AHC teams with the state government on the program, which is offered to those living at AHC’s apartment communities.

Caps, Gowns, Hoopla for the Class of ’14 Graduating seniors at Yorktown, Washington-Lee and Wakefield high schools rotated in and out of D.A.R. Constitution Hall on June 19 to collect their diplomas, receive words of wisdom and be ushered into the next phase of their lives. The weather cooperated for the most part as members of the Class of 2014 were saluted for their hard work and commitment to one another by speakers at the commencement ceremonies. “We know you are going to do great things,” Yorktown principal Raymond Pasi told members of

the school’s graduating class, while Washington-Lee principal Gregg Robertson called the seniors “one of the most positive, kind and hardworking classes I have ever seen.” H-B Woodlawn Secondary Program, Arlington Mill High School and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology all held commencement exercises last week, as well, wrapping up a six-week season that featured college and highschool graduations across the local Jesus Enriquez-Hernandez and Nursen area. Kasgarli were among those graduating See full coverage of local gradua- from Wakefield High School last week. tions inside on Page 10-11. PHOTO BY DAVE FACINOLI

In their efforts to address rising enrollment, School Board members on June 16 sought formal approval to have a $106 million bond placed on the Nov. 4 ballot. If authorized by the County Board and Circuit Court, then approved by voters, the funding would start the ball rolling on paying for the school system’s 10-year capital-improvement plan (CIP), also adopted on June 16. “It is a crisis,” School Board Chairman Abby Raphael said of student enrollment that has been growing at an average rate of 700 students a year. “We’ve just to got to keep moving – we’ve got to bring the [additional] seats on line.” The cost for every new seat under the 10-year plan: $113,350. The adopted CIP seems to spell doom for the proposal to build an eight-story middle school in the western part of Rosslyn, a proposal that seemed to unite a host of otherwise warring factions in opposition to it. The proposed secondary school “is not a good option,” School Board member Emma Violand-Sanchez said. But the plan leaves open the fate of several other controversial concepts, including whether, when and

Decision on New Elementary May Wait Until 2015 It could be well into 2015 before a final decision is made on whether to put a new elementary school on the campus of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. The county government owns part of the land on which the school might be located, and also controls the planning process that would permit a school to be constructed, meaning the decision-making process will be a collaborative one between the County Board and School Board. “We have opened the door for a conversation,” County Board Chairman Jay Fisette said June 17, a day after School Board members reiterated their preference for using the site for a new elementary school. The proposal has generated hostile reaction from some who want to retain open space on the big Thomas Jefferson parcel. Fisette said any process would protect the most wooded area of the site.

Continued on Page 17

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County Sees a Decline in Avg. Wages

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When it comes to employment conditions in Arlington, new data from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics have a familiar “good news/bad news” ring to it: • The good: Those who have jobs in Arlington continue to earn among the highest average weekly wages in the nation. • The bad: That average wage is declining, as is the number of employees working in the county. Data released June 19 pegged Arlington’s average weekly wage at $1,588 in the fourth quarter of 2013, good enough to rank the county eighth highest among the nation’s 334 largest U.S. counties and nearly 60 percent higher than the national average wage of $1,000. But Arlington’s average wage was down 2.4 percent from a year before, compared to no change in the national average. In fact, 310 of the 334 most populous counties saw better results than Arlington in the most recent survey. The number of workers employed in the county also dropped, down 1.1 percent from a year before, according to federal estimates, while national job growth was 1.8 percent during the same period. Arlington in recent years has slipped in the size of both paychecks and employment, and is coming perilously close to falling out of the top 10 in average weekly wages. Nationally, San Mateo County, Calif., had the highest reported weekly wage during the quarter, at $2,724. Rounding out the top five were New York County (Manhattan), N.Y., at $2,041; Santa Clara County, Calif., at $1,972; San Francisco County, Calif., at $1,753; and Suffolk County, Calif., at $1,741. Following them were Fairfield County, Conn., at $1,653; the District of Columbia (counted as a county for this survey), at $1,638; Arlington, $1,588; Fairfax County, $1,558; and Morris County, N.J., at $1,553. Of the 334 largest counties, 185 had year-over-year increases in average wages in the fourth quarter. The largest percentage jumps came in Santa Cruz County, Calif., at 6.5 percent, and Ada County, Idaho, at 6.4 percent. Of the 140 large counties that posted declines, the biggest drop was reported in Douglas, Colo., which saw wages drop about 30 percent due to declines in the professional and business-services sectors. San Mateo, Calif., despite having the highest average weekly wage, saw the second largest percentage tumble in the nation. Among other Northern Virginia localities, the fourth-quarter average weekly wage stood at $1,414 in Alexandria, down 3.2 percent; $1,190 in Loudoun County, up 1 percent; and $863 in Prince William County, down 0.7 percent The 334 counties represent communities with employment of more than 75,000, and account for more than 70 percent of all U.S. employment, Bureau of Labor Statistics officials said. – A Staff Report

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June 26, 2014

Community

Seniors Recognized for Service to the County Carmen Shippy, Ron Musselwhite and Randy Randall were honored as outstanding volunteers at the 10th annual seniorrecognition luncheon sponsored by the county government’s Department of Parks and Recreation and Office of Senior Adult Programs, held June 12 at the Jefferson retirement community. County Board Chairman Jay Fisette lauded the contributions of seniors and their “effectiveness in advocating for senior issues.” Fisette took the time to reflect on

a wide spectrum of programming offered at county-government senior centers, from the arts and travel to sports, fitness and wellness. At the event, the county government’s parks director, Jane Rudolph, installed 2014-15 officers of the Arlington Senior Adult Council. Cindy Miller will serve as chair, Vera Libeau as co-chair, Christine Werner as secretary and John Gunning as treasurer. At the luncheon, seniors were encouraged by sports and

Will McKelvain is a 12-yearold sixth-grader at Williamsburg Middle School, who recently played the first spirit in the Washington National Opera’s production of “Magic Flute” at the Kennedy Center. Will began his vocal career when he was 6 years old as a chorister in the choir of St. Paul’s Parish in Washington, a program modeled on, and singing at a comparable standard to, famous English choirs such as that of Westminster Abbey. He attended the Royal School of Church Music Course for Experienced Trebles at the Washington National Cathedral the past two summers. When not singing, Will enjoys interscholastic basketball, wrestling and Ultimate Frisbee. The Sun Gazette recently asked Will about his experience in “Magic Flute” and his overall dreams for the future.

Around the age of 11, my mother began getting requests for me to audition for various roles, from solos at George Wa s h i n g ton University to principal roles in operas at the Kennedy Q&A Center. I have even auditioned for operas at the Met in New York City, and a major motion picture starring Dustin Hoffman.

recreation division chief Laura Lazour to achieve successful aging by continuing to be active and by supporting programming at the government’s senior centers, including Arlington Mill, Aurora Hills, Culpepper Garden, Langston-Brown, Lee and Walter Reed. For information on the Office of Senior Adult Programming and senior-center programs, call (703) 228-4744 or see the Web site at www.arlingtonva.us and click on “55+ Guide.”

County parks director Jane Rudolph poses with new Senior Adult Council officers John Gunning, Christine Werner, Cindy Miller and Vera Lebeau.

Middle-Schooler Finds Success in the World of Opera

How did you first get involved in music? When I was 6, I started singing in a church choir at St. Paul’s K Street. I believe that truly sparked my love for music. In this choir, I have really been able to find talents I never thought I would have through music.

How was your time spent in “Magic Flute”? The Washington National Opera experience was a lot different than what I expected. This was partly because I had never been in the Opera House at the Kennedy Center before. The whole opera production was a much bigger deal than I could have imagined. There were so many rehearsal hours, a huge cast, amazing costume designs, you name it! The biggest thing that made my jaw drop was as a “spirit,” I

Want the good news, or the bad news, on preservation issues in the local area? Because there’s a little of both. Preservation Arlington, a grassroots advocacy group, over the past month has been publicizing both success stories and areas of ongoing concern. Among the positives: • The Green Valley Pharmacy was named a local historic district

last year, giving the local government some review over exterior changes to the landmark Nauck business. • The 1913 Fraber House, located just north of Ballston on North Quincy Drive, which had been owned by the county government and allowed to sit vacant, became part of a historic district and was sold to new owners who agreed to its preservation.

Will McKelvain was among the cast of the Washington National Opera’s recent production of “Magic Flute.”

got to fly on stage!

opening night.

What’s in your future? I will continue to sing so-

prano for Evensong at St. Paul’s K Street. Also, I will continue to take piano lessons, as I have since I was 6. I also love to play instruments in the Williamsburg Middle School band. I have studied the trumpet, the trombone and now I am learning the tuba. Finally, I will continue to audition for as many performances that come my way.

Were you nervous? While on stage, I could feel such a strong energy from the audience, even from the people working backstage. This particular “Magic Flute” production was artistically groundbreaking and therefore so full of excitement! Everyone, including me, felt jitters. I especially felt jitters on

For those with no experience attending opera productions, would you say they should give it a try? I would suggest going. This was such a great experience, that it just completely blows your mind.

vated by the county government, which has owned it for more than a half-century. • The Crossman House, constructed in East Falls Church in the 1890s, was renovated by its new owners after it had fallen into disrepair. But the good news was offset by the rapid pace of change in Arlington. Among the entries in Preservation Arlington’s 2014

“Lost Historic Places” list: • Nearly 180 single-family houses in Arlington were demolished in 2013, an average of one every two days. • The county government approved a plan for Marymount University and the Shooshan Co. to redevelop the “Blue Goose” building at the corner of North Glebe Road and Fairfax Drive. – Scott McCaffrey

www.insidenova.com

Preservation Group Lauds Successes and Laments Failures

Sun Gazette

•

The low-rise Kenyon Peck Building (which now houses Walgreen’s) and the Clarendon Building (home to Faccia Luna and Boulevard Woodgrill, among others) are likely to have been spared from the ongoing redevelopment in Clarendon through historicpreservation easements. • The 19th-century Carlin Hall Community Center, the oldest of its kind in Arlington, was reno-

SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

County Board members on June 17 rescinded planned increases in fees for outof-county participants in competitive gymnastics teams. In a 3-1 vote, board members overturned their previous decision to more than double the out-of-county surcharge from its current rate of about 20 percent up to 50 percent. They chose to reject a compromise proposal from County Manager Barbara Donnellan, who wanted the surcharge set at 30 percent for the coming year, then rising in future years. The move came after furious lobbying by supporters of the Arlington Aerials girls’ gymnastics team and Arlington Tigers boys’ team, who said the increased surcharge would force out-of-county participants out of the program, and also complained they were not given adequate notice of the proposed increase. County officials conceded the community process was lacking. “It fell short of the standard I think Arlington should adhere to,” said County Board member John Vihstadt, who along with Vice Chairman Mary Hynes vigorously supported keeping the surcharge where it had been in previous years. They picked up support, tepid though it might have been, and the necessary third vote from County Board Chairman Jay Fisette. Board member Walter Tejada abstained, and board member Libby Garvey voted against the measure. Garvey said she supported the county manager’s proposal to increase the surcharge to 30 percent, which, she noted, remains less than the out-of-county surcharge for most other county recreation programs. Those who live outside the county but

use county services should pay more, Garvey said. “I serve Arlington. I have to justify my vote to the taxpayers of Arlington,” she said. Members of the teams are chosen on a competitive basis, irrespective of geography. Of the nearly 170 participants in the competitive-gymnastics program, about 70 come from outside the county’s borders. Currently, county residents are charged about $3,300 a year to participate in the Aerials girls’ team, slightly less for the Tigers boys’ squad. All sides in the debate agreed that a surcharge for non-residents was warranted, but how much that should be was the sticking point: The Sports Commission supported the Garvey/Vihstadt position of no change from the current rates; the Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee backed the county manager’s revised recommendation of a 30-percent bump with more down the road; and the Senior Adult Council supported the full 50-percent surcharge that County Board members had approved in April, before the controversy hit. (Confused? So was Tejada, who at one point proposed increasing the surcharge to 15 percent, until he was informed that doing so would result in a decrease from the existing surcharge. He backed off, later joining with Garvey in a losing effort to adopt the 30-percent increase before abstaining on the final vote.) Craig Esherick, who chairs the Sports Commission, said boosters of the gymnastics team had made a compelling case to maintain the status quo this year. “The arguments for tabling the increase were convincing,” he told County Board members. Esherick said it was one thing to impose a 50-percent cost differential for out-ofcounty residents participating in sports

County Officials Ponder Future of Role in Gymnastics Program profess their support for the competitive program and those who participate. “You are great, role-model athletes for our county,” board member Walter Tejada said. The Arlington Aerials and Arlington Tigers are profit centers for the Department of Parks and Recreation, boosters of the program say. But county staff have a slightly different view, since the figures cited by supporters do not take into account the overhead costs of running the Barcroft facility where the programs are housed. If out-of-county participants opt to depart the program, county staff said, it would free up space for other recreation programs. But county staff, too, proclaimed their support for the gymnastics program. County Manager Barbara Donnellan has proposed a $2.5 million overhauls of the Barcroft facility, which would allow for expansion of gymnastics classes and competitive teams. Currently, there are 124 members of the Arlington Aerials squad and 45 on the Tigers. Out-of-county participants pay an average surcharge of about 20 percent above the in-county rate.

Robert Ramsey, president of the Arlington Tigers Booster Association, said his group was willing to work with county officials, but pressed for a “collaborative and transparent process.” In a “what were they thinking?” moment, the County Board had placed the issue on its June 14 “consent agenda” for supposedly non-controversial items. The item was pulled off, and a full public hearing – which saw a room filled with gymnasts and their supporters – was held three days later. The County Board’s decision on rolling back increases also affects participants in the Arlington Aquatics Club, a competitive swim team supported by the government.

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Supporters of Arlington’s competitivegymnastics program may have won the battle, but they face losing the war. Although County Board members on June 17 agreed to roll back proposed surcharges for out-of-county youth who participate in the Arlington Aerials girls’ team and Arlington Tigers boys’ squad, there were a number of pointed questions along a common theme: Why is the county government running these programs in the first place? “We want to understand if this is a business we want to be in,” County Manager Barbara Donnellan said at the public hearing. “It needs to be looked at.” County Board Vice Chairman Mary Hynes, who supported rescinding the fee increases, went further. “I’m not convinced that Arlington should be in the business – I’m not sure if it’s in anyone’s interest any more to have this government-sponsored,” she said. County Board Chairman Jay Fisette had concerns, too. “A conversation seems to be in order,” he said. Lest they find themselves in another nowin PR battle against the young, articulate gymnasts, board members were quick to

camps and programs, but quite another to do so for the high-cost gymnastics program. It amounted to “gouging them,” he said, since the program already turns a profit for county taxpayers. County staff didn’t go down without a fight, disputing some of the assertions of the gymnastics-team supporters. But staff acknowledged they could have done more to inform those affected by the proposed fee change before it went to the County Board in April. “We certainly recognize we can do a better job with communication,” said Laura Lazour of the Department of Parks and Recreation, who promised a “more indepth community process in the future.”

June 26, 2014

County Board Nixes Fee Increase for Youth Gymnastics

Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

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Opinion

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Highs & Lows

THUMBS DOWN: To whoever thought it was a good idea to go sticking “Save Thomas Jefferson Park” signs in the yards of several School Board members last week. At least two board members woke up in the days before the June 16 adoption of the school system’s capital-improvement plan to find the signage planted on their property. Emotions were running high among residents on a number of topics, including the proposal to build a new elementary school on current open space adjacent to Thomas Jefferson. But this type of behavior crosses a line of civility. Going to an elected official’s house and doing such a thing is creepy at best, an attempt at intimidation at worst. Those who perpetrate it might say they meant nothing threatening by it, but threats often are in the eye of the

beholder. Everybody needs to take a deep breath and think before they embark on aggressive attempts of pushing their positions. It seems to be getting out of hand in what used to be a community where we all could disagree without being disagreeable. THUMBS DOWN: To the prostreetcar majority on the County Board, who continue to fail to understand that they are turning the public against their position just about every time they open their mouths. Board members Jay Fisette, Mary Hynes and Walter Tejada used an excessive amount of time at a meeting last week to blather on about the reasons they wouldn’t support a referendum on the streetcar. (Show of hands out there: Anyone think they were going to move forward with such a

vote? We didn’t think so.) The long-winded commentary was accompanied by a press release from the county government, which seems to be kept busy of late by churning out onesided streetcar materials. There was even a video to go with it. Then, later last week, we learned that the new contract for management services related to the streetcar includes $650,000 in the first year for “outreach.” Critics again pounced, deriding it as a propaganda slush fund. We think the pro-streetcar forces have a case to be made to the community, but if they keep acting so out of sync with the public, the teetering Democratic oligarchy that has held the reins of power in Arlington for two generations is likely to find itself kicked to the curb. Hynes and Tejada, whose seats are up in 2015, would be right to be very, very nervous.

Advisory Referendums Are Not the Way to Go Editor: Advisory referendums are illegal in many Virginia jurisdictions, including Arlington, and for good reason. They are a terrible way of governing, a solution to political problems of a century ago that no longer exist. For decades, the California legislature

has refused to take a stand on controversial issues, leaving each to referendum. Their financial mess is a direct result. Much has changed in the U.S. since the Constitution was drafted 227 years ago – national scale, technology, obligations, threats. But human nature is the same. Madison and others knew then that every

pure democracy had failed, in part because of ill-informed populism. That’s why we elect people of sound judgment and time to delve into issues as our representatives. They were right in 1787. They are still right. Les Bergen Arlington

Editor: Even if the Columbia Pike streetcar is constructed with federal and state money, as County Manager Barbara Donnellan wants, the problem comes after it’s built. Arlingtonians will be paying through the nose for it for years to come. Look at other localities with streetcars; they all lose money. That means higher real-estate taxes and higher business taxes,

which probably will drive out existing businesses or discourage new ones from opening – which the County Board claims is the reason for the streetcar in the first place. In coming years, where will they hide this deficit in the budget, or how will they fund it so taxpayers don’t realize they are subsidizing this mistake? Surely the board doesn’t want to be held accountable, and will find a way to explain away the endless

dollars they’ll channel into it. Redevelopment is coming to Columbia Pike. It has started. We don’t need a $500 million mistake to justify it. I urge Arlingtonians to write their elected representatives to ask them not to support any measure that includes federal or state funding for this fiasco. Carolyn Clemente Arlington

Editor: The recent article discussing the hopedfor federal financing for the streetcar project contained a revelation for me. The article stated that “The Crystal City project, which has not generated nearly the community division . . .” would result in a total cost for both projects of $514 million. I was unaware that “the streetcar proj-

ect” was in reality two separate projects, and I think that a lot of other people are similarly unaware, and that this is why the Crystal City project has seemingly not generated as much division. It appears to me that the Crystal City project makes little sense without the Columbia Pike trolley, so I think that in the future, any discussion of “the streetcar project” needs to address the total cost of

both systems. So, in reality, the mind-boggling $358 million dollar cost of “the streetcar” is in reality a have-they-lost-their-minds $514 million dollar project. The streetcar made no sense when the cost was “only” $358 million; at more than $500 million, it is lunacy. Thomas Hafer Arlington

Streetcar Is Not Needed to Spur Pike Development

Neither Streetcar Project Makes a Whole Lot of Sense

SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

In a move that surprised virtually no one, a slim majority of County Board members on June 17 effectively nixed calls for a community referendum on the Columbia Pike streetcar. In an orchestrated series of speeches at the board meeting, County Board Chairman Jay Fisette, Vice Chairman Mary Hynes and board member Walter Tejada each covered familiar ground in their support for the streetcar project. They said procedural hurdles stood in the way of putting the matter before the electorate. “I understand the impulse to put the streetcar to a vote,” Fisette said, but said there was no feasible way to do it: • While some Virginia localities have state authorization to conduct advisory referendums, Arlington does not. • To put an issue on the ballot, the County Board would need to authorize the sale of general-obligation bonds for the project. Fisette, Hynes and Tejada said they would not support the use of such bonds to help pay for the project. All three repeated the mantra of pro-

streetcar forces that the time for debate is over. “The issue has been decided by our community. The time has come to act,” Fisette said. Decided? Maybe not. The streetcar was a dominant issue in April’s County Board special election, likely will be a key issue in the November general election, and could be a seminal issue in the 2015 County Board election, where the seats of Hynes and Tejada will be up. Should anti-streetcar board member John Vihstadt retain his seat in this November’s election, anti-streetcar forces could go after Hynes and Tejada in 2015. “There are other ways [besides a referendum] that the voters are able to express their views,” said Vihstadt, an independent who stung the Democratic establishment with his April special-election victory over Democratic nominee Alan Howze. (After the election, Howze came out in support of a referendum.) Why Fisette, Hynes and Tejada felt the need to use the June 17 meeting to speak out on the issue isn’t known, but it clearly was a coordinated effort, backed up by the county government’s PR machine, which

Wherever He Goes, Fisette Has Streetcar Questions to Address SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

The Sun Gazette is the community’s source for news and information – we’ve held that distinction since 1935, even though others have tried to take the crown!

Hope (D-47th), Treasurer Frank O’Leary, Commissioner of Revenue Ingrid Morroy and Howze among them – earlier in the spring called for a referendum to decide the fate of the five-mile-long, $350 million streetcar line that is slated to run from Pentagon City west to Skyline. Few, however, expected a referendum to be placed on the ballot, and both pro-streetcar and anti-streetcar forces were dubious about the idea. O’Leary, the longest serving Arlington elected official, has warned that, without a referendum, the Democratic oligarchy that has ruled the community for three decades could be torn to shreds either by intra-party infighting or by an outraged electorate.

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“That picture drives me nuts.” So says County Board Chairman Jay Fisette of a photo that has become iconic to those in Arlington’s anti-streetcar faction. You’ve probably seen it: Taken in 2010 on a Toronto street, it shows a brokendown car with that city’s streetcars stacked up behind it, with no way to get around it. (We’d show you the photo yourself, but the Toronto Star’s syndication arm wanted $80 for one-time reprint rights to the Rick Eglinton image. We passed.) Fisette was in New York City recently, where Arlington was beat out by Toronto in the 2014 “Intelligent Cities” competition, and ran into several members of the City Council. He asked them about the incident, and they reported that every year or so, there is a similar situation. But still photos have a way of distorting things, they noted, as in most cases, the vehicles are moved out of the streetcars’ way within a few minutes, and all again is right with the world. Toronto has one of the most extensive, and, Fisette argues, most successful streetcar networks of any North American city. But it also is home to anti-streetcar Mayor Rob Ford, whose shenanigans in recent years have won him notoriety on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border. Both supporters and opponents of the Columbia Pike project have used Toronto examples to make their points. Fisette acknowledges that the proposed Arlington streetcar network could be subject to the same problem dealing with dis-

abled vehicles, since there will be no dedicated lanes for the light-rail system. But he says that is not much different than what is experienced by drivers traveling on the Beltway, where a single accident can turn rush hour into gridlock. Fisette on June 16 spoke to members of the Arlington Interfaith Council, and while his hour-long remarks touched only briefly on the streetcar issue, it was the topic that generated every single question from members of the organization. Proving that not every Arlingtonian has spent most waking hours agonizing over transit issues, the questions in many ways were of the most basic variety: How will the system work, how will it impact parking, what effect will it have on housing issues. And, no surprise, who’s paying for it. Fisette coined a new term at the meeting, calling the five-mile Columbia Pike project the “Fairfax-Arlington streetcar.” He later said that wasn’t an attempt to push Fairfax to the fore in the contentious debate, but was more a slip of the tongue. Regional leaders have gotten used to the million-resident behemoth that is Fairfax getting first position in many situations. As he has in the past, Fisette suggested that public debate over the streetcar issue had more to do with a failure of messaging than with the proposal itself. “I don’t think that we in the county have done a very good job” explaining the project, he said. “This is the next strategic investment that will keep our community moving forward,” said Fisette, one of a slim majority on the County Board who supports moving forward on the $350 million Columbia Pike transit line.

cranked out a press release immediately after the comments and also produced a video for the occasion. Apparently the trio did not share their plans in advance with Vihstadt or antistreetcar colleague Libby Garvey. “I hadn’t expected this was going to come up today,” said Garvey, who has spent much of her County Board tenure fighting against the streetcar project. Garvey derided the Fisette/Hynes/Tejada position that the streetcar could be built without an impact on homeowners. “We’re all going to be paying,” Garvey predicted. “We’re now at $30,000 an inch, and that’s just to build it.” Several key Democrats – Del. Patrick

June 26, 2014

Anyone Surprised? No Referendum on Streetcar in ’14

Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

Arlington Notes SHERIFF’S OFFICE WINS REACCREDITATION: The Arlington County Sheriff’s

Office has been reaccredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. The commission oversees the voluntary assessment procedure among 417 eligible law-enforcement agencies in Virginia. Currently, 89 agencies have accredited status. The assessment of the Arlington Sheriff’s Office took place in March, and studied more than 720 different areas, according to officials. The reaccreditation was approved in May. The Sheriff’s Office has held accredited status since 1997. It is the fourth time the office has been reaccredited; it will next be due for evaluation in 2018. Sgt. Shannon Williamson supervises the accreditation process for the Sheriff’s Office, and was praised by Sheriff Beth Arthur at the June 17 County Board meeting where the reaccreditation was announced. COUNTY PREPS FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY: The Arlington County government’s

annual Independence Day celebration will be held on Friday, July 4 beginning at 4 p.m. at Long Bridge Park in Crystal City. The event will feature music, vendors, food and the opportunity to view July 4th fireworks over the National Mall from a prime viewing locale. Activities will run through 10 p.m. There will be no on-site parking, but the park is accessible via Metro and free shuttles will run continuously from the Crystal

City and Pentagon City Metro stations. For information, see the Web site at http://parks.arlingtonva.us/july-4th/. FREE CAB RIDES OFFERED OVER HOLIDAY: The Washington Regional Alcohol

Program (WRAP) will offer free cab rides through its SoberRide initiative to those imbibing on Independence Day. From July 4 at 10 p.m. to July 5 at 4 a.m., individuals can call (800) 200-TAXI to receive a free ride home, up to a $30 fare. Those seeking rides must be at least 21 years old; rides cannot be scheduled in advance. Last Independence Day, nearly 300 individuals availed themselves of the ride home. Since 1993, WRAP has provided more than 60,565 safe rides home during various holiday seasons around the year. For information on the initiative, see the Web site at www.soberride.com. PHILHARMONIC PAYS TRIBUTE TO ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE: The Arlington

Philharmonic will salute the 70th anniversary of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington with “Pops for Pets” on Sunday, June 29 at 6 p.m. at Lubber Run Amphitheater. The event is “an exciting opportunity to bring our community together to revel in the special joy that only music and the companionship of a pet can bring,” said Neil Trent, president and CEO of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington.

Conducted by A. Scott Wood, the concert will include marches and animal-related classics from the likes of Sousa, Copland, Bach, Strauss, Haydn, Saint-Saens and Leroy Anderson. The public and well-mannered dogs are welcome. The concert is free, but donations will benefit the two sponsoring organizations. Boxed dinners will be available for purchase from La Cote d’Or. A rain date has been set for Tuesday, July 1 at 6 p.m. FINANCIAL-EDUCATION PROGRAM FOCUSES ON WOMEN: “Money Talk: A

Financial Course for Women,” sponsored by Virginia Cooperative Extension, will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesday in coming weeks. Course topics include financial basics (July 2), insurance basics (July 9), investing basics (July 16), investing for retirement (July 22) and planning for future life events (July 29). All meetings are held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Central Library. There is no cost; online access to a course textbook is included in the program. For information and to register, see the Web site at http://www.offices.ext.vt.edu/ arlington/. ENCORE LEARNING LOOKS AT MEDICAL ERRORS: Encore Learning will pres-

ent a lecture on “The Top Five Medical Errors and What You Can Do to Prevent Them From Happening” on Monday, June

30 at 3 p.m. at Central Library. The speaker will be Rosemary Gibson, a leading authority on U.S. health care. The program is co-sponsored by the county library system. For information, call (703) 228-2144. FIREFLY FESTIVAL RETURNS TO FORT C.F. SMITH PARK: Fort C.F. Smith Park

will host its annual Firefly Festival on Sunday, June 29 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the park, 2411 24th St. North. Designed for all ages, the event will include games, crafts, discussions of fireflies and bug hunts. Participants can bring a picnic dinner if desired. The cost is $7 per person. For information, call (703) 228-6535. REGISTRATION SET TO BEGIN FOR SENIOR OLYMPICS: Online registration

opens July 1 for the 2014 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics, to be held Sept. 13-24 at 19 venues across the region. Adults age 50 or older (as of Dec. 30, 2014) and residing in sponsoring jurisdictions are eligible to compete. Registration forms are available online at www.nvso.us and at senior centers, community centers and senior residences across the area. The deadline to register is Aug. 29 (by mail) and Sept. 5 (online). The cost of $12 includes the ability to participate in multiple events. For information, call (703) 228-4721 or see the Web site.

Meet the new face of lung cancer Theresa never imagined she could have half of her lung removed through a tiny incision, be up and walking less than an hour later, and home the very next day. When tests revealed she had lung cancer, Theresa Ott, 50, underwent a minimally invasive surgery with renowned thoracic surgeon Sandeep Khandhar, MD.

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Sun Gazette

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Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

W-L Seniors Celebrate Achievements, Class Spirit BENNETT WALLS For the Sun Gazette

“Here we are!” began Samuel Douthit, valedictory speaker for Washington-Lee’s Class of 2014, whose 509 graduates gathered June 19 at D.A.R. Constitution Hall for a ritualized passage from one part of their lives to the next. Clothed in blue and gold like his classmates, Douthit acknowledged the students’ debt to family and faculty alike, and teasingly thanked county school leaders for “a truly unprecedented number of snow days.” He urged his fellow graduates to appreciate all the resources they had enjoyed at W-L, resources many students elsewhere in the country do not have the fortune to enjoy. Douthit went on to speak of new challenges and opportunities they all could expect as high school graduates, noting that things worth having do not come easy. Closing his remarks, he encouraged his peers to nurture the ability to start over. If you’re not happy, he observed, “you have the liberty to take your hopes and dreams elsewhere.” Douthit finished with a wartime quotation from Winston Churchill: “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” An illustrious beginning, to judge by the numbers. With 69 valedictorians, the Class of 2014 also boasts 41 International Bac-

calaureate Diploma candidates, the largest number in school-system history. In addition to these two groups, Senior Class Dean Antonio Hall recognized the class’s National Honor Society members. Following the conferral of departmental awards, six students were called to the stage for school-wide honors: Moussa Dia, Sam Douthit, Anna Santiago, Trevor McManus, Delphina Charles and Tyler Laredo. Principal Gregg Robertson reaffirmed the Class of 2014’s academic excellence, saying that the class had academically outperformed 98 percent of the country. He called it “one of the most positive, kind and hardworking classes I have ever seen,” and advised the graduates to “always be gracious, be appreciative, and be kind.” Kevin Phillips, the teacher selected by the class to deliver the commencement address, struck a balance between self-deprecating humor and sincerity. Using a few personal stories as examples, he commented on the challenge of getting to know oneself and the importance of looking on the positive side of things. He encouraged graduates to “go against the inclination to say no,” and make the most of opportunities, “especially the small ones.” After the awarding of diplomas, the graduates joyfully tossed their blue caps in the air to the sound of their families’ cheers and, along to a recessional arrangement performed by the W-L Band, proceeded outside where a slight drizzle was beginning to relieve the early-summer heat.

Joshua Inyangson and Arianna Lozano were among members of Washington-Lee High School’s Class of 2014 to garner diplomas during commencement ceremonies last week.

PHOTO BY BENNETT WALLS

Yorktown Grads Poised to Do Great Things in World BENNETT WALLS

www.insidenova.com

For the Sun Gazette

Sun Gazette

Jennifer Martinez, Daniel Nelson and Katelyn Ouzts were among members of the Class of 2014 at Yorktown High School to earn diplomas during commencement ceremonies held June 19 at D.A.R. Constitutional Hall. PHOTO BY BENNETT WALLS

Yorktown High School Class of 2014 president Grace Greenwood estimates that she and her classmates have a collective 221,277,600 hours to make their mark on the world. At Yorktown’s graduation ceremony, held at D.A.R. Constitution Hall on June 19, Greenwood converted that to minutes and then seconds. What could a person do with a single hour, a minute, or even one second, she asked her peers to consider. Greenwood suggested that kindness, which needs no more than a second, would be the ultimate currency of their lives. “Let’s give it a try,” she said. “Let’s let kindness shape the future.” That kindness has already established its roots in the young students, according to Yorktown’s principal, Raymond Pasi, who observed the “obvious, generous goodwill of the class.” He also emphasized the academic achievements of the class, which included two National Merit finalists, and which received a total of almost $12.5 million in scholarships. “We know you are going to do great things,” Pasi said. Apart from Pasi’s words of encouragement, the day belonged largely to the students themselves.

Valedictory speaker Amanda Gaylord invited the new graduates to look ahead to the time years later when the awkwardness of high school would be somehow turned to nostalgia. Whatever is to come, “we’ll always be connected by these four years,” she said. In spite of any doubts or fears, Gaylord assured her fellow graduates that all of them had the ability to positively affect the world, concluding, “Here’s to the future, Class of 2014.” After songs by the school’s Madrigal Singers, the final class speaker, Amnar Hanna, approached the podium. “Today we cross the finish line of a 12 years’ journey,” Hanna said, “but there is still a journey to come.” Hanna spoke of adversity, and urged his classmates to be strong on the way through life. He told of his own immigration to the U.S. just four years ago, entering Yorktown without knowing a single word of English. Despite hard work, he began to lose faith in himself, but was “granted a second chance” that allowed him to succeed. Hanna advised his peers not to let failure stop them from pushing forward, and at the same time to be conscious of their impact on a world that will need strong and responsible people.

DAVE FACINOLI Staff Writer

For the 302 graduates in Wakefield High School’s 60th commencement ceremony, held June 19 at D.A.R. Constitution Hall, messages focused on what waits ahead, along with some reflections on the past four years. “Everyone has a future, and the ride may not be smooth and quick,” said Daniel Brown, one of four student speakers the evening ceremony. “What you can have an effect on is the quality of your future.” Senior class co-presidents Tesay Yusuf and Emily Hambridge shared a welcoming address, sometimes even speaking in unison. “In this class, I see many faces who will go on and do great things,” Yusuf said. Hambridge encouraged her classmates to continue working together, as they have for four years, no matter where they end up. “You cannot do anything alone,” she said. “When we work together, we can do more than you can imagine.” Wakefield principal Christian Willmore welcomed the graduates and the guests, including School Board members James Lander and Sally Baird and Superintendent Patrick Murphy. Willmore announced that the senior class earned $5.3 million in college scholarships.

New Wakefield High School graduates Marine Sang, Lawrence Savoy and Grace Schroeder.

“This class will always be known as the one that opened the new building, and is the first graduating class from the new Wakefield High School,” Willmore said. “Surround yourselves with people who are positive and will support you,” Willmore said. Senior Richard Tan’s speech was a reflection on the graduates’ four years. “You were like a family, filled with smiles on your faces,” Tan said. “Who would have thought that four years could

have been filled with this much fun. I’m glad to call you pals. You have won and we are done. But there is new life out there to fight for. This is not the end by any means. Go with eyes to the stars.” Teacher Michelle Robinson, a former Wakefield student, was the guest speaker. She asked the graduates to try something new, even if it’s a cup of coffee, and to create their own identity, put their phones down and be good listeners. She also asked that they make a difference to

June 26, 2014

Wakefield Grads Urged to Stay Positive and Focused

PHOTO BY DAVE FACINOLI

somebody else. “I encourage you to be selfless,” Robinson said. “There are many people who can use your kindness, and that can be rewarding.” After the musical selection, “Walk in Jerusalem,” by the Wakefield choir, the wait was over. The names of the graduates, the girls wearing white gowns and the boys green, were called, and one-by-one they were presented with their diplomas during the ceremony.

TJ Graduates are Encouraged to Reach Full Potential BENNETT WALLS For the Sun Gazette

Members of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology’s graduating class included (front row) Matthew Jiang, Anne Li, Ravali Goda, Jennifer Du, Katherine Tsai and Kevin Luu and (rear) Alexander Wood-Thomas, James Wang, Arno Chang and Peyton Randolph. PHOTO BY BENNETT WALLS

ahead to a future in which they would each find their “own definition of success.” The evening’s keynote speaker was Dr. Freeman Hrabrowski, president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and ranked by Time magazine in 2012 as one of the world’s 100 most influential people. Hrabrowski affirmed the value of poetry, reciting a stanza from the late Maya Angelou. He encouraged the graduates to appreciate the arts and humanities as well

as math and science, and challenged them to “question everything.” Dr. Hrabrowski spoke of his participation in the 1963 civil-rights campaign in his native Birmingham, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for which Hrabrowski, then 12 years old, spent a week in jail. “The world of tomorrow,” he said, “can be better than the world of today,” and he called upon the graduates to be leaders in that improvement. But first, he said, “savor this moment.”

The final student speaker, Nikhil Garg, celebrated the diversity and talent of his class, its rejection of the high-school stereotype, and its “ability to preempt failure.” In a few closing remarks, teachers and class sponsors Paul Kosek and Adam Foreman acknowledged the parents, and told graduates, “Come back and visit.” Following the presentation of diplomas, graduates Roy Rinberg and David Chae announced the class gift, a new scoreboard for the football field.

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A bird fluttered among the steel rafters of the Patriot Center as the last families filed in, popcorn and cameras in hand, and the orchestra launched into the processional music. Then the 455 graduates of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology entered and strode down the length of the arena to enormous applause. Graduates Tarun Prabhala and Carolyn Ours had the first words of the night. “Well, 2014,” said Prabhala, “now you’re here. You’re actually here.” Voicing a sentiment that would be echoed throughout the night, Ours said, “TJ has become our home away from home, and everyone here has become part of our family.” This family’s accomplishments, according to Principal Evan Glazer, include a class average of 7.49 Advanced Placement (AP) exams per student, an abnormally high number of National Merit candidates and more than $23 million in college scholarship offers. In his address, Glazer gave numerous examples of student initiatives within the class and applauded the graduates’ “commitment to service.” Graduating senior Varun Jain brought humor to the ceremony, noting that whatever had changed in his time in the halls of TJ, he could at least “always count on asbestos to be there for me.” Jain reflected on the importance of the friendships and mentors that had shaped the graduates’ experience, and looked

Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

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Open Sunday, June 29, 1-4 — See many pictures at www.dicknathan.com 4141 N. Henderson Rd. #303 ~ $345,000 703-284-9318 // dick.nathan@longandfoster.com // www.dicknathan.com Ranked #9 Sole Practitioner out of 105 agents in office

ARLINGTON NORTH

Carol, Jerry & Jinx

4845 Yorktown Blvd Arlington VA 22207 This one has it all!!!

STACEY ROMM 703-298-8197

#1 Sales agent for 20 years Associate Broker, DC, MD and VA BSBA Real Estate Investment & Construction

G IN N MO COSO

I won’t rest until the keys to the RIGHT home in the RIGHT neighborhood are in the RIGHT hands: YOURS.

I’m Ready When You Are!

“I SELL MORE Dennysells@verizon.net BECAUSE I DO MORE” 703.244.7474

fer

f eO

DICK NATHAN

www.insidenova.com

THE CLASSIC Center Hall COLONIAL

GrantJR@LNF.com

S. Pollard St.

The Meadows

Results Driven & Client Focused: 3 Homes Listed & SOLD in June

Buying, Selling, Upgrading? I’M YOUR GUY, Let’s Talk.

Our team is the key to your next successful move! Call us when you are ready to buy or sell your home. Jill Burke

Cell: 703-943-7591 Jill.Burke@LNF.com

OPEN SUNDAY 6/29 1-4 Elevator townhome at Glebe & 26th offers four levels, 3 bedrooms + 2 ‘loft’ bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, main-level Family Room

NEW PRICE — $1,148,000 703-284-9318 // dick.nathan@longandfoster.com // www.dicknathan.com Ranked #5 Sole Practitioner out of 105 agents in office

See ALL of our listings at www.longandfoster.com

Peggy Richardson

Cell: 703-346-8326 Peggy.Richardson@LNF.com

WASHINGTON/Crestwood 5 Bedroom/4.5 Bath

I brought the buyer to this stately and spacious - 5 BR/4.5 BA all Brick Colonial home located in sought-after Crestwood * Gracious first floor entertaining space*hardwood floors throughout * 4 sun-filled levels * features include first floor Library *table-space kit * formal dining room * lower level family room * private rear garden * 2 car detached Garage * if you are interested in buying or selling something similar, please call for a private consultation.

JOHN MENTIS 703-284-9457 202-549-0081 www.JohnMentis.com

Associate Broker

Arlington is our neighborhood, let us make it yours. #15 Sales agent for 20 years Associate Broker, DC, MD and VA BSBA Real Estate Investment & Construction

www.Johnsellsarlington.com

Cell: 703-507-6513 Karen.Kuwana@LNF.com

$1,075,000

L SO

Your Life is Changing — I Can Help!® Woodlawn Waycroft

(703) 528-5646 John.plank@LNF.com

Karen Kuwana

N SU

1-4

$1,479,900 New Home

• Stunning Custom build 5 BR 4.5 BA home • Incredible detail, finishes, breathtaking kitchen & family room • Thoughtful modern space with period detail

• Blocks to METRO, parks, schools, shopping & bike trail • Glebe Elementary, Swanson Middle, Washington Lee High School

www.insidenova.com

Sun Gazette

www.libbyross.com Libby.Ross@longandfoster.com

Grant Doe, Jr. 703-284-9443

e ipl

Call me to see it today.

susan.joy@longandfoster.com

John Plank, s BROKER, CRS, ABR, SRES ASSOCIATE

NO ONE WILL WORK HARDER FOR YOU

McLean Offices Manassas Dr. 703-873-3500 • 6862 Elm Street | 703-790-1990 • 1311A Dolley Madison Blvd. rs

LIBBY ROSS 703-284-9337

Arlington 22201

I Open MORE DOORS for You

l Source:house, Information based on data supplied by MRIS and its member Association(s) of REALTORS, who are not responsible for its accuracy. Does notLreflect D i all activity in the marketplace. January Beautiful fabulous location, excellent lti1,p 2011 – December 31, 2011. u O Information contained in this report is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, should be independently verified, and does not constitute an opinion of MRIS or Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. ©2012 All rights reserved. M S value!!!! Built in 1941 and updated recently

has all the charm of yesteryears and the Follow us on: convenience of today. Large MBR with bath plus jack and jill bedrooms, stairs to third level. The main level has updated kitchen formal living room and dining room plus large family room. Finished lower level with garage, magnificent mud room full updated bath and recreation room.

SUSAN JOY 703-284-9215

Classic Colonial Lovingly restored and on quiet street N updated brick with niceColonial fenced SUM circa 1939. backPristine yard andwood N brick period E 3P floors on large two levels, patio. Sunny OP 1detail, finished basement. living room Renovated kitchen with with fireplace, granite. 3BR 2BA upstairs. separate dining room. Updated New windows throughout, kitchen with large screened-in porch granite overlookscounters, expansive, privatestainless fenced yard. steelJust appliances, Bedrooms3 blocks & updated bath Off up,street to Metro. Glebetile ES backsplash. • Swanson3MS finished recreation room & full bath. Niceparking. hardwood floors, reWashington-Lee HS

1236 N. Taylor Street 867 N Lebanon Street

www.johnsellsarlington.com

Patrick.Evans @LongandFoster.com

D n3

Arlington is our neighborhood, let us make it yours.

$1,199,000

$1,300,000

Renovated from stem to stern and top to bottom, this rambler has all the bells and whistles of new construction in a smaller package. Sited on a 12,239 SF lot with a fenced back yard in Crystal Spring Knolls, the house is just one block from the ArtBus to the Metro, two stoplights from Washington, DC and less than a mile to I-66. Walk to Windy Run Park and explore the Potomac River, or walk to Cherrydale’s burgeoning cafe options.

Your Life is Changing — I Can Help!®

placement windows. Walk to Upton Hill Park, Westover Shops & Restaurants, bike trail. Easy access to METRO.

PATRICK EVANS 703-919-4338

Stacey.Romm @LongandFoster.com

T ERAC D R UNNT CO

2400 N Nelson Street 3/4 Bedrooms/3 Baths $1,060,000

DOMINION HILLS 2BA - $679,900 Ballston - 3BR 2BA- 3BR - New Price $743,900!

John Plank, Associate Broker (703)528-5646 John.plank@LNF.com Mark Middendorf, Realtor® Richard Dale (703)928-3915 (703) 861-3251 mark.middendorf@LNF.com Richard.dale@LNF.com

www.McEwen-Lunger.com The #1 Family Team in Arlington

This sun-filled home has an open, kitchen family room, 4 bedrooms 3 full and 1 half bath, laundry room upstairs, cathedral ceilings, double sinks, tons of storage and 3 fireplaces. Enjoy this FLAT backyard from a beautiful deck off the kitchen, great for entertaining or just grilling out enjoying this peaceful lot. You don’t want to miss seeing a home so lovingly cared for so thoughtfully renovated and expanded. The beautiful hardscape and landscape is from Merrifield Garden Center and a sprinkler system to keep it looking beautiful during our hot summers. Jamestown, Williamsburg,Yorktown schools. Call or Text Stacey or Pat for more details!!!

$305,000

www.JohnMentis.com

No one has more expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®. $529,000 We’ve run out of Inventory! W G NETIN S LI

2 Bedroom/2 Bath

N SUM EN4 P P O 1-

Level 5 - Fun level with sauna and wet bar. Bonus: Two car garage and lovely patio.

MCLEAN/The Colonies

Top Producer • Licensed in DC & VA

Weichert Realtors Dedicated to YOUR success!

Rarely available Aventine model w/year-round views of Lake Thoreau * Open floor plan combines LR-DR & kitchen * SGD to private deck * Lg lower level rec room w/SGD to patio & verdant backyard * A/C compressor new 2013 * Cluster offers paths, 2 private docks * EZ to Terraset, Hughes, montessori plus South Lakes Village groceries & retail * <1 mile to new Wiehle Ave Silver Line metro * More! * Please call for a private showing.

John Mentis 703-284-9457 202-549-0081

Level 2 -

can sleep.

23%

Call/text/email me any time CHRISTINE RICH

Really Big with Great Floor Plan!

R ! DE ACT N U TR N CO

Long & Foster

Spacious, expanded, and completely renovated home with 4-5 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, gorgeous renovated kitchen with high ceilings, plentiful cherry cabinetry, lovely granite, a center island, high-end stainless steel appliances, and heated floors. Kitchen is open to family room with deck leading to AMAZING backyard. Handsome hardwood floors throughout, three fully finished levels, spacious master bedroom suite with sitting area and large bathroom (steam shower included). Main level bedroom. Tuckahoe, Williamsburg and Yorktown schools.

NORTH ARLINGTON

13 June 26, 2014

LONG & FOSTER ARLINGTON LONG & FOSTER

Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

55+ News

Business Briefcase

SENIOR CENTERS CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY: Arlington County government se-

nior centers will be closed on Friday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. GAMES OF POKER OFFERED: Poker

games will be offered on Monday, June 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Aurora Hills Senior Center, offering congenial play for fun. For information, call (703) 228-5722. Games also are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lee Senior Center; for information, call (703) 228-0555. WORKSHOP LOOKS AT TIPS FOR BALANCE: A demonstration of balance ex-

ercises that can be done at home will be presented on Monday, June 30 at 1 p.m. at Culpepper Garden Senior Center. For information, call (703) 228-4403. TRAVELERS HEAD TO KUTZTOWN FESTIVAL: Arlington County 55+ Travel

hosts a trip to the Kutztown (Pa.) Festival on Tuesday, July 1. The cost is $19. For information, call (703) 228-4748. SUMMER SCAMS DETAILED: Summer

scams against seniors will be discussed on Wednesday, July 2 at 1:30 p.m. at Aurora Hills Senior Center. For information, call (703) 228-5722. MUSIC/MOVEMENT SERIES CONTINUES: The Music & Movement series at

Culpepper Garden Senior Center continues on Wednesday, July 2 at 10:30 a.m.

For information, call (703) 228-4403. TRAVELERS HEAD TO C&O CANAL:

The Arlington Walking Club will travel along the C&O Canal in Maryland on Wednesday, July 2 at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $4 for transportation from Culpepper Garden Senior Center. For information, call (703) 228-4403. ADVANCED LINE DANCING OFFERED:

Advanced line dancing will be offered on Thursday, July 3 at 1:30 p.m. at Lee Senior Center. For information, call (703) 228-0555. SOLVING SUDOKU, GROUP-STYLE, IS EXPLORED: Group approaches to solv-

ing Sudoku puzzles will be explored on Thursday, July 3 at 1 p.m. at Lee Senior Center. For information, call (703) 2280555. INDOOR PICNIC CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY: A red-white-and-blue indoor picnic

will be held on Thursday, July 3 at noon at Culpepper Garden Senior Center. The cost is $6. For registration, call (703) 2284403. LEE WOODCARVERS EXPLAIN THEIR WORK: The Lee Woodcarvers of Lee

Senior Center will share carving tips on Thursday, July 3 at 1 p.m. For information, call (703) 228-0555.

Items for active seniors run each week in the Sun Gazette!

BASEMENT WALLS? FOUNDATION REPAIR•CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION BASEMENT WATERPROOFING SETTLING FOUNDATION CRACKED BRICKS UNEVEN FLOORS NASTY CRAWL SPACE

ROTTED WOOD MUSTY SMELLS STICKING WINDOWS CRACKED DRYWALL

$500 Off!*

WET BASEMENT BOUNCY FLOORS MOLD & FUNGUS BUGS & RODENTS

*Any job over $3000. Good only when presented at time of free inspection. Not to be combined with any other offer.

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Owned & Operated by Professional Engineers!

Sun Gazette

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Stella & Jesse Waltz, P.E., Owners

FREE INSPECTION & ESTIMATE!

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CHAMBER NAMES NEW PRESIDENT:

The board of directors of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce on June 20 voted to appoint Kate Roche as the business organization’s new president. Roche, who had served as vice president for the past year and has been with the organization since 2007, succeeds Rich Doud, who retired in May after 23 years as head of the business group. Roche was selected after a three-month search process, Chamber officials said. “She brings to the table a unique ability to build on our existing success and culture while dynamically leading our Chamber into the future,” said Tim Hughes, an attorney and 2014 Chamber chairman. “To me, working for the Chamber has always been much more than just a job,” Roche said in a statement. “This is truly my community. The Chamber has an incredibly solid organizational foundation, and I look forward to building upon that. The business community continues to evolve, and so do the needs of our members.” REAGAN NATIONAL SEES GROWTH BUT DULLES POSTS ANOTHER DECLINE:

Healthy year-over-year growth at Reagan National and the final departure of a rough winter season helped push the total passenger count at Northern Virginia’s two major airports 1 percent higher in April compared to a year before. But the figures continue to showcase weakness at Washington Dulles, where increasing international service couldn’t offset an ongoing decline in domestic traffic. The two airports saw 3,621,342 passengers in April, according to figures reported June 16 by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, up from 3,585,203 in April 2013. The growth was concentrated at Reagan National, which saw its year-over-year passenger total rise 3.1 percent to 1,832,177. In what used to be a rarity but is likely to become more commonplace, National welcomed more passengers during the month than Dulles, which reported a decline of 0.5 percent from a year before, to 1,798,165, according to airport officials. American, US Airways, Delta, United and Southwest all posted higher yearover-year passenger counts at National. At Dulles, dominant carrier United reported a 4.8-percent decline in domestic passengers, while Delta also saw a decline as it moved flights to National. United remained the dominant carrier at Dulles; the mainline airline and its regional affiliates accounted for 65.4 percent of all traffic, down slightly from a year before. The merged (but not yet integrated) American and US Airways had the next largest presence, at 5.3 percent, followed by Delta at 4.5 percent. At Reagan National, US Airways, United and its regional affiliates controlled 58.2 percent of passenger travel in April, down slightly from a year before. Second was Delta (15.7 percent). Cargo service at Dulles saw an uptick of 3.8 percent in April compared to a year before, as international shipments offset declines in domestic service from United and FedEx. The region’s third major airport, Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood

Marshall, saw a passenger increase of 2.7 percent to 1,914,769 during the month. The combined (and almost fully integrated) Southwest and Airtran controlled 71.8 percent of passenger traffic during the month, unchanged from a year before. Full data are found on the Web site at www.mwaa.com. HOSPITAL RENAMES NEONATAL FACILITIES: Virginia Hospital Center has dedi-

cated its recently upgraded neonatal intensive care unit in honor of Marjorie Sands. Funding for the upgrade was provided by a donation by Frank Sands Sr. and his family in honor of his wife. “When Marjorie and I think about the children who will be born and the outstanding care they will receive, we are very proud to be part of what the [neonatal unit] is providing to our local community,” Frank Sands Sr. said. The upgrade is designed, in part, to meet a growing need. Virginia Hospital Center officials say they have seen a “dramatic and sustained” increase in maternity cases, now ranking second highest among medical facilities in Virginia. In 2013, there were more than 5,600 babies born at the hospital, with about 700 admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit. The gift of the Sands family “will help us achieve our goal of providing high-quality, state-of-the-art, family-centered care to infants born in their local community, and will benefit countless babies who are not yet born,” said Dr. Brian Stone, chief of pediatrics at Virginia Hospital Center and medical director of what is now known as the Marjorie Sands Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The unit is managed by the neonatalogy team of physicians from Children’s National Medical Center. It deals with cases ranging from full-term but ill babies to micro-premature infants, who are born before 29 weeks of gestation or weigh less than 3 pounds. ANOTHER GROUND-FLOOR-RETAIL SPACE CONVERTED TO OFFICES: The

Arlington County government’s groundfloor-retail policy continues to fall victim to economic reality. County Board members on June 14 agreed to allow the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association to convert just over 1,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor of 4401 Wilson Blvd. to offices. Why? For starters, the property owner has been unable to lease the space since the building opened eight years ago. County staff acknowledged that this particular space, at the back of the building, had “poor pedestrian visibility and extremely limited viability as a retail space,” and recommended that it be converted to office use. The office building, located in Ballston, is one of two owned by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (the other is next door at 4301 Wilson). Arlington officials long have promoted ground-floor retail in new development, but in recent years have agreed to allow a number of property owners to convert some of that space to offices if no retail tenants could be found to occupy it.

n Summer swimming action. n Final high school roundup.

For more sports visit:

www.insidenova.com/sports/Arlington

Flying Fish Open With Big Victory

Teeing Off

Until August, High-School Athletics Remains on Hold Every year at this time, it’s always kind of an eerie and weird experience.

Dave Facinoli

Two Other NVSL Teams Earn Wins A Staff Report

Top: Ely Constantine of Arlington Forest swims the freestyle leg of the boys age 11-12 medley PHOTOS BY DEB KOLT relay. Above: Arlington Forest’s Drew Hindman swims the 15-18 butterfly.

For Arlington Forest, the meet against Kent Gardens marked the fifth consecutive season the outcome was determined by the relays. The Tigers had 49 personal best times on the day. The boys 8-under freestyle relay of Evan Dempsey, Matt Giglio, Luke Risacher and Eli Martin set a team record in 1:19.43. The Tigers’ six double winners were David Gallion, Ryan Hindman, Kait Luncher, Bryn Edwards, Ely Constantine and Adam Luncher. Single winners were Jordan Hardenburgh, Jamie Hardenburgh, Emily Gallion, Luke Risacher, Gabriella Valencia, Zoe Edwards, Drew Hindman, Emilie Kluge, Elie Martin and Natalie Martin. In second-week action on Saturday, June 28, Overlee, which finished second in Division 1 to the Chesterbrook Tiger Sharks last summer, hosts McLean; Donaldson Run is on the road at Little Rocky Run in Clifton, and Arlington Forest hosts Dominion Hills in an all-Arlington showdown. All three meets begin at 9 a.m. n In Colonial Swimming League action on June 21, the Arlington Knights of Columbus Holy Mackerels started their season with a strong win over the Countryside Waves from Sterling, winning, 279- 164. Mac Marsh was a triple winner in individual events for the Holy Mackerels.

Carson Brooke swims the boys 13-14 breaststroke in the meet for Arlington Forest.

Kathleen Butler and Zach Rosenthal were double winners. Single winners were Zackary Black, Ashley Deabler, Cooper Donovan, Grace Douthit, Dominic Gil, James Hilsmier, Lucy Khlopin, Io Kovach, Jane Miller, Claudia Moneymaker, Matias Moreno, Nicolas Reeves, Connor Sughrue and Max Wohlschlegel. An individual team record was broken by Rosenthal in the age 13-14 boys 50- meter breaststroke, and Marsh tied a team record in the 9-10 boys 25 butterfly. Relay records were broken by the 1112 girls 200 meter medley relay team of Kovach, Caitlin Sughrue, Sabrina Atkin and Elizabeth Dufrane, and by the 13-14 boys 200 medley of Rosenthal, Matthew Zischkau, Conner Sughrue, and Peter Schmidt.

Those who happened by any local high schools last week, between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m., found empty parking lots, playing and practice fields and gymnasiums. No one was around, and the unusual quiet and stillness were peaceful, but could almost be frightening compared to the alternative. There were none of the regular sounds, like cheering, a referee’s whistle, an umpire’s call, a coach giving instructions, chatter from the stands, the sound of a bat hitting a ball or a fastball hitting a catcher’s mitt. Athletic administrators and trainers weren’t riding around on golf carts delivering supplies and checking on athletes. Finding a good parking spot certainly wasn’t an issue, as the schools almost looked abandoned. That’s because there were no highschool sports teams practicing or playing games. The seasons had all ended the previous weekend as the close of school for the summer drew near. Teachers and administrators weren’t working late to prepare lesson plans and tests or organize activities for the next day. Usually the 4-to-8 period is a hustling and bustling time for high school athletes, especially during the spring with so many different teams practicing or playing. On any given evening, a dozen or more high-school teams can be participating in some type of springtime sports activity. The thing unique about last week’s emptiness was, it’s the only time of the school year such evening stillness occurs at high schools. Think about it. When area public schools begin classes in early September, the 4 to 8 p.m. time period has been plenty active for a few weeks, because the fall sports season, with practices, and games, and headed by the football teams, is well under way. Otherwise, there is never any down time between seasons, because the campaigns all overlap so much. When one season ends, practices for the next are already ongoing. Come August, that all begins again.

Find daily updates on the Web at www.insidenova.com. Stay in touch through Twitter (@sungazettespts) and Facebook (sungazettenews).

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Led by the Overlee Flying Fish in Division 1, three Arlington teams were winners in the opening week of the Northern Virginia Swimming League season June 21. Overlee defeated the Highlands Whomping Turtles, 255-165, as Suzanne Dolan set a team SWIMMING record in the 50meter freestyle in 27.76 seconds, and the team won eight relays. The other two winning teams were the Donaldson Thunderbolts over the Mount Vernon Gators, 222-198, in Division 3 and the Dominion Hills Warriors over visiting Rolling Forest, 231-189, in Division 9. Also in Division 9, the Arlington Forest Tigers lost to the visiting Kent Gardens Dolphins, 229-191. In addition to Dolan for visiting Overlee, other double winners were Ryan Baker, Kate Bailey, Jonathan Day and Ellie Ridgeway. Overlee’s single winners were Cameron Ake, Lauren Allard, Brady Almand, Olivia Hartel, Christopher Kinsella, Paul Kinsella, Isabella Lee, Michaela Morrison, Kayle Park, Robert Ridgeway and Sophie Yoder. Leading Donaldson Run were eight winning relays and double winners Charlie Greenwood, T.J. Hutchison, Audrey Engel and Ellie Belilos. Single winner were Charlie Longnecker, Jack Oliver, Eliza Gromada, Rachel Conley, Ella Rigoli, Hannah Ford, Matt Vance, Emily Brooks, Huck Browne, Julia Fayer, Bryan Meade and Christian Tiernan. Dominion Hills was led by double winners William Allen, Gavin Anzaldi, Grayson Jazwick, Nathaniel LeNard, Sophia Moses and Noah Swisher. The Warriors’ single winners were Geoffrey Ax, Lauren Fatouros, Ann Leslie Riley, Jacob Larsen, Kevin Morris-Larkin, Zoe Nagle, Mae Seward, Jane Terrell and Mackenzie Ullom. Larsen set a team record in the boys 15-18 backstroke in 29.70. Allen was the most improved swimmer, bettering his time in the boys 8-under backstroke.

June 26, 2014

Sports

See More on the Web

Sun Gazette

June 26, 2014

Better Sports Club Honors Best of 2014 at Banquet

Wakefield High School’s Madeline Brophy, left, and Yorktown’s Teddy Schroeder were the Arlington Female and Male Athletes of the Year. Master of Ceremonies Byron Kerr is in the middle.

Yorktown High School golf coach Chris Williams, left, is presented Coach of the Year by Charlie Viars. Dave Navarre, left, presents the Billy Castleberry Award to former president Brian Hannigan.

The Better Sports Club of Arlington held its 58th annual awards banquet earlier this month at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Sportscaster Byron Kerr served as the master of ceremonies. Arlington School’s superintendent Patrick Murphy was the guest speaker and many athletes received awards. The hall was packed with athletes and their family members. The club’s banquet honors graduating high school senior student-athletes in many varsity sports. Athletes are chosen from Wakefield, Washington-Lee, Yorktown and Bishop O’Connell high schools. The Arlington Female High School Athlete of the Year was Wakefield’s Madeline Brophy. The Arlington Male High School Athlete of the Year was Yorktown’s Teddy Schroeder. The Arlington Coach of the Year was Yorktown’s Chris Williams. Brian Hannigan received the Billy Castleberry Memorial Award. The award is presented to the club member who has provided outstanding service. The Arlington Sportsman of the Year was Steve Severn, president of the Arlington Girls Softball Association. Brophy received a $2,500 scholarship from the Better Sports Club’s scholarship fund.

Steve Severn, president of the Arlington Girls Softball Association, was Arlington’s Sportsman of the Year.

Ice Hockey Sportsman of the Year James Klein received a $1,000 scholarship from the Monumental Sports and Entertainment Foundation in memory of late coach Tom Newman. Softball player Cloe Moloney was awarded a $1,000 scholarship in memory of longtime softball coach and Better Sports Club member John Glover, who died earlier this year. Glover was a longtime scorekeeper for the Wakefield High softball team. Following are the remaining 2014 Better Sports Club Sportsmanship awardees: Kaitlyn Potts, youth softball; Kennan Oizumi, youth baseball; Owen Connally, youth Challenger award; J.P. DeFranco, boys golf; Hunter Gray, baseball; Laura Pastre, girls basketball; Jonah Sens, boys basketball; Brooke Giles, cheer; Jane Townsend, girls crew; Matt Zetkulic, boys crew; Joe Brough, boys cross country; Jordan Selby, girls cross country; Sonia Lunn, field hockey; M.J. Stew-

Arlington superintendent Patrick Murphy was the guest speaker at the annual banquet.

art, football; Peyton Johnson, girls golf; Annie Siddle, gymnastics; Emily Spack, girls lacrosse; Sam Douthit, boys lacrosse; Michael Katz, boys soccer; Alicia Curaca, girls soccer; Hayley Metcalf, softball; Elena Bavolack, girls swim and dive; Jay Delancey, boys swim and dive; Max Thompson, boys tennis; Oliva Tate, girls tennis; Sarah Angell, girls track and field; Evan Lesmez, boys track and field; Audrey Batcheller, girls volleyball; Narankhuu Ganbaatar, wrestling.

Sports Briefs

www.insidenova.com

EAGLES RED HEADED TO REGIONALS:

Sun Gazette

The under-14 Eagles Red of Arlington Soccer Association’s travel program will participate in the U.S. Youth Soccer Regional 1 Championships, with a chance to qualify for nationals. The Eagles Red boys team earned a region berth with an undefeated run through the Region 1 Premier League. The team has won five high-level tournaments in 2014, and have an overall record of 46-4-4. They also achieved a No. 1 ranking in gotsoccer.com. Players are Allexon Saravia, Anthony Herrera, Carlos Farias, Edison Giron, Garrett Lusk, Giacamo Mecagni, Hugh Curran, Jayson Carbajal, Jonathan Cummins, Lincoln Kickbush, Marty Hockey, Mateo Leach, Nelson Flores, Paul Bangura, Sam Goodkind, Tate Rusby-Wood and Will Socas. Coaches are German Peri, Tony Damiani and Paul Bangura.

ROWDIES WHITE WIN SOCCER TOURNEY: Arlington Travel Soccer’s Rowdies

White under-16 girls team won the Phoenix Summer Classic and Showcase Tournament, defeating a Colonial League Region 1 team and three others to go undefeated. The players were Sofia Cohen, Colleen Cook, Greta Dahlquist, Gemma Harris, Sophia Hays, Rebeca Mercado, Kayla Morrison, Megan O’Briant, Emily Pardi, Margaret Pendleton, Martha Rich, Eleni Riris, Alisha Sherren, Sophie Spiliotopoulos, Katherine Tramonte, Kristin Uckert and Olivia Wadzinski. Guest players in the tournament included Gretel Bonilla, Amy Herron and Greta Liebeler. The team was coached by David Camara and Prashant Singh. HURRICANES WIN AAU HOOP QUALIFIER: The 10-under Hurricanes girls

basketball team, based in Arlington, won the Potomac Valley AAU DQT Fourth Grade Division II National Qualifying Tournament by going undefeated and defeating the Matrix, 26-13, in the championship game. The Hurricanes will represent the Potomac Valley at the nationals in July. “I was proud of how our players executed our game plan and played excellent defense,” coach Steve Flippin said. The players were Claudia Andrade, Olivia Baptiste, Hannah Boone, Mia Chapman, Morgan Flippin, Dalylha Ghebre, Natalia Johnson, Clare Murphy, Elise Raymond and Ellie Simmons. Flippin and Bill Simmons were the coaches. REAL MADRID SOCCER PROGRAM EXPANDED: This spring, Arlington Soccer

Association (ASA) expanded the Real Madrid Social-Sport Academy program

to Kenmore Middle School with the support of the Real Madrid Foundation, the International Studies Foundation and Arlington Public Schools. For the past seven years, ASA has provided after-school character-building opportunities through this soccerbased program to more than 200 at-risk elementary school children in Arlington, at no cost to the students or to the school system. This spring was the program’s first season at a middle school. Arlington was the pilot location for the Real Madrid Foundation’s afterschool program in the United States. The program runs at Barcroft Elementary, Carlin Springs Elementary, Hoffman-Boston Elementary and Kenmore with plans to expand. For more information, contact Justin Wilt at justinwilt@arlingtonsoccer.com or (703) 527-0157.

Police Beat

ROBBERY: n On June 7 at 11:30 p.m., a 22-year-old woman was robbed of her purse by three men in the 2000 block of South Jefferson Davis Highway. As the suspects were fleeing, one of them dropped his wallet and cell phone, which were recovered by security personnel. Police arrived on the scene and took two of the suspects into custody. The two 19-year-old Arlington men – Muqtadir Mustafa and Andre Costa – were charged with robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery, and were held without bond. n On June 8 at 1:35 p.m., a 53-year-old male cab driver was assaulted and robbed of his cell phone after an individual refused to pay cab fare while in the 1800 block of North Edison Street. The suspect is described as a black male, in his 20s, 6 feet tall, 110 pounds, with tattoos on both arms. n On June 14 at 4:50 p.m., an 87-year-

Schools Continued from Page 1

MALICIOUS WOUNDING: n On June 14 at 6:30 p.m., a verbal argument in the 200 block of North Thomas Street escalated, and a woman was assaulted by a man, police said. Warrants were obtained for the suspect, 53-year-old Arlington resident William Henry, for malicious wounding, strangulation, burglary and assault-and-battery. n On June 15 at 1:49 a.m., police arrived at a fight in progress in the 1200 block of North Garfield Street, and determined that Metro Transit Police had detained the suspects. The suspects – 25-year-old Jamar Harwould have waited to see if the projected growth occurs before moving forward on several big-ticket items. “It is incumbent upon this board to move in a more conservative approach,” said Lander, who worried about an erosion of voter support if the school system couldn’t live “within our means.” But Lander’s option drew a frosty reception from several School Board members. Sally Baird said it would be a mistake to suggest that growth in the student population might not transpire. “Our projections have been dead-on right for years and years,” she said. The school system’s current student body of slightly less than 24,000 could grow to 30,000 in the next decade, surpassing even the student enrollment at the height of the Baby Boom. In requesting the big bond, with future referendums to come in two-year increments, school leaders seem to be banking on the willingness of County Board members to defer or scale back their own capital projects. Whether they will agree won’t be known until July. Under existing policy, neither the county government nor the school system can spend more than 10 percent of its annual operating budget on debt service. School officials want that policy amended to take into account both budgets collectively, which would allow the school system to break the 10-percent ceiling without imperiling the county government’s AAA bond

ris of Arlington and 26-year-old Connor McGrath of Fredericksburg – were arrested and charged with malicious wounding and drunk in public. The victim was transported to George Washington Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. n On June 17 at 10 p.m., a woman was assaulted by a man in the 2300 block of North Kensington Street after a verbal argument escalated. Warrants were obtained for 61-yearold John Frerotte of Arlington, who was charged with attempted malicious wounding and assault-and-battery. He was held without bond.

masturbate in the 2800 block of Wilson Boulevard. The suspect is described as a black male 6 feet tall, 180 pounds. n On June 14 at 6:30 a.m., a woman observed an Hispanic male naked on the path near the East Falls Church Metro station.

INDECENT EXPOSURE: n On June 14 at 1:47 a.m., two women observed a black male expose himself and

BURGLARY: n On June 9 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., a home in the 900 block of South Columbus Street was burglarized. A Rolex watch and coins were taken. n On June 11 at 12:30 a.m., a man was seen entering a construction site in the 1100 block of South Edgewood Street. After attempting to gain access to an onsite trailer, he fled the scene. Nothing appears to have been taken. The suspect is described as a black male, in his 20s, 5’8”, 140 pounds. n On June 10 between 6 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., a home in the 200 block of South Veitch Street was burglarized. A guitar, guitar case and flat-screen TV were taken. n Sometime between June 11 at 12:30 p.m. and June 12 at 12:30 p.m., five smartphones were stolen from a storage unit in the 1100 block of South Hayes Street. n Sometime between June 13 and June 16, a home in the 1800 block of North Columbus Street appears to have been burglarized. It is unknown if anything was taken.

ratings, as long as the county government scales back. The County Board is in the middle of finalizing its own 10-year capital plan. Whether county officials – who have their own long list of projects in the pipeline – would allow school officials to use some of their bonding authority awaits more discussion in coming weeks. Lander said there “is no need to go to the county for more bonding capacity” since the school system can meet growth needs without all the high-priced options in the capital plan favored by school staff. But colleagues were unconvinced; in several snippy exchanges, they noted that the proposal put on the table by the vice chairman had a higher per-seat cost than the proposal supported by staff. In the end, Lander couldn’t get any colleagues to go along with his proposal. It fell, 4-1, and Lander abstained from voting on the CIP package that ultimately was adopted. A number of School Board members and some in the public suggested that the 2014 bond package would be a Band-Aid solution; the school system needs to be getting more county revenue than it already does, they suggest. “We cannot build our way out [of the capacity crunch] – we desperately need a funding stream,” said Michael Beer, a school activist. County Board members are likely to greet that idea with rolled eyes; Arlington

already spends more per student than any other suburban Washington school district – often by a substantial margin – and the school system’s own Budget Advisory Council has called on school leaders to find ways to ease up on spending. When Virginia voters in the 1990s allowed localities to elect School Board members, they did not give those boards independent taxing authority. School systems are largely dependent on elected city councils and boards of supervisors for most of their funding. (In Arlington, 80 percent of the school system’s half-billion-dollar annual budget comes from the County Board.) Over the past few years, tempers have flared in a number of local jurisdictions – including Loudoun and Fairfax counties and the city of Falls Church – over spending priorities. So far, Arlington largely has been immune from those battles, but those days may be changing. The Fairfax County School Board last year asked the General Assembly to study whether to provide boards of education with taxing authority; the proposal, as expected, went absolutely nowhere in Richmond. The proposed school bond is likely to be one of a number of referendums on the Nov. 4 ballot in Arlington. Voters have not turned down a bond request in three decades, and two years ago, the school bond then on the ballot received support of four out of five voters.

PEEPING TOM: n On June 10 at 10:18 p.m., a woman was using a restroom in the 4200 block of Columbia Pike when she glanced out the window and saw a hand holding a phone taking a picture or video of her. The suspect fled after the victim screamed. There is no description. n On June 16 at 12:45 a.m., a man was seen looking into the bedroom window of a home in the Bedford Apartments. The suspect is described as a white male, in his 30s, 5’8”, chubby.

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where to relocate the H-B Woodlawn Secondary Program and whether to build an elementary school on the campus of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. In a split vote, a board majority retained the word “preferred” to describe the option to build a new elementary at the middle school, but board members told angry community members that the plan was not etched in stone. “We appreciate the concerns,” Raphael said. “This doesn’t make a final decision; it sets in motion a process.” If the plan to build the new elementary falls apart, the school system’s fallback plan is to construct additions at a number of elementary schools in South Arlington. Additions will be coming both to Washington-Lee High School and Abingdon and McKinley elementary schools under the adopted plan. The vote to request a bond referendum was unanimous, but came after hours of public testimony – much of it featuring residents angry with specific proposals in the capital plan – and after School Board members pushed back on an alternate proposal put forward by School Board Vice Chairman James Lander. Lander’s alternative would have necessitated a smaller bond referendum and

old man allegedly was assaulted and robbed of cash in the 3800 block of 9th Street North. The suspect fled to the Ballston Metro station, where he was apprehended by police. The suspect – 57-year-old Melvin Baxter of Capitol Heights, Md. – was arrested, charged with robbery and was held without bond. * On June 15 at 10:06 p.m., a 21-year-old man allegedly was robbed of his iPhone, iPad, gold crucifix and cash in the 5100 block of Columbia Pike. Police obtained warrants against Freddy Patino, 49, of no fixed address, charging him with robbery, malicious wounding and driving while suspended.

June 26, 2014

BANK ROBBERY: n On June 13 at 10:21 a.m., a man entered the PNC Bank in the 2900 block of South Glebe Road and committed a robbery. The suspect is described as a black male, 6 feet tall to 6’2”, 160 to 170 pounds, with a full beard and mustache and an old scar on his left cheek.

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Items taken from the archives of the Northern Virginia Sun. June 27, 1944: n Groups representing both business interests and labor have come out in opposition to the proposed state sales tax. n Mrs. America Louise Medley Harding, believed to have been Virginia’s oldest living woman, has died at age 108. June 25, 1955: n A state commission continues its effort to find a legal way around the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the integration of public schools. n A lack of adequate amounts of polio vaccine nationwide threatens to leave schoolchildren at risk when the school year starts. n Helen Keller is planning a quiet celebration to mark her 75th birthday. June 27, 1961: n A Vienna citizens group says the town should not attempt to become an independent city. n Virginia education officials have approved upgrades to safety requirements for school buses. * The death toll on Virginia’s highways so far this year is 361, up from 347 at this time a year ago. n Breaking with tradition, the White House has announced plans to hold a state dinner on the grounds at Mount Vernon. n Despite a bad back, strep throat and viral infection, President Kennedy remains in “excellent” health, his aides reported. June 26, 1969: n The Board of Supervisors has approved a moratorium on considering new public-housing projects, until a countywide housing policy is adopted. n Democratic gubernatorial contender Fred Pollard says he is against letting students sit on local school boards or college boards of visitors. n “Body painting” is all the rage among the local area’s young people. n At the movies: “The Love Bug,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” “Doctor Zhivago” and “The Longest Day.” June 27, 1986: n A House panel has rejected the Reagan administration’s call to nix $217 million in spending for continued construction of the Metro system.

© Lovatts Puzzles ACROSS 1. Computer capacity 4. Supporter 8. Without women 12. Friend of Nancy 13. Follow orders 14. Skin 15. Hair goo 16. Quiet 17. Big bovines 18. Shoots from cover 20. Court 22. Carry 23. Become operative, take ___ 27. Kindergarten disrupters 29. Overly smooth 30. “___ what?” 31. Escape clauses 32. Stock figure 33. Gala 34. Born as 35. Sack 36. Profane oath 37. Whirlpools 39. Tooth 40. Point 41. Reviews (accounts) 44. Off 47. Misfortunes 49. Blast 50. Hammer or sickle 51. Mollify 52. Scratch (out) 53. Whimper 54. Shake off 55. Darn DOWN

1. ___ to riches 2. “Indeed!” 3. Served as a strong influence 4. Bill Haley and His ___ 5. Invective 6. After expenses 7. Spectacles 8. Mild satire 9. Custom 10. “___ we having fun yet?” 11. Col.’s superior

23 June 26, 2014

Local history

19. Cookers 21. Frequently, in verse 24. Invigorates 25. Camp beds 26. Overly sentimental 27. Jolly Roger feature 28. Regretted 29. Put down in writing? 32. Cornish ___ 33. Kitty 35. Company V.I.P.

36. Set off 38. Tennyson poem 39. Two-faced 42. Appropriate 43. Gush forth 44. Bank letters 45. Tribulation 46. Commotion 48. ___-di-dah

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Weichert

June 26, 2014

Real Estate

Mortgages

Arlington N.

Closing Services

Drop Dead Gorgeous!!

JUST LISTED

DAVE LLOYD & ASSOCIATES

$1,249,900 Arlington N.

High-end boutique style renovation from top to bottom. This graciously proportioned . Colonial is strategically sited on a spectacular garden lot tucked away off of Lorcom Lane with a convenient Nelson St. cul-de-sac entrance. Enjoy 2,900 finished square feet of space, tasteful decorator finishes throughout, a jaw dropping “Top Chef” worthy kitchen, exceptional living & dining rooms, exquisite millwork and trim throughout, gleaming hardwoods, two FP’S, a sunny & bright great room addition opening onto patio and enchanting garden, remodeled Waterworks baths, a reconfigured master retreat w/luxurious spa-like bath, walk-in closet and roof deck, and a recently remodeled LL complete with rec room, office/play area, laundry room and side load garage. Magnificent Jewel Box!

SU N 4 E P 1-

703-593-3204

Style, Comfort and Elegance

Oakton Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla mattis, enim nec sollicitudin pulvinar, nibh eros tincidunt mauris, eu consequat metus risus eu odio. Cras fringilla ullamcorper urna, at mattis felis ultricies eget. Cra fringill. (Web ID 1234567) $1,299,000

Arlington Ridge UN

JUST LISTED

3012 Military Road

DAVIDLLOYD@REALTOR.COM

Character * Charm * Unique * Welcoming best describe this 1940’s mid- century contemporary * Updated to today’s standards * Good size rooms * Granite kitchen with breakfast room * Master bath with and heated floor, skylight, Style, Comfort Elegance soaking tub with separate French doors Oakton shower Lorem *ipsum dolor sit in livamet, consectetur adipiscing elit. * One ing room lead to flagstone patio and lovely garden Nulla mattis, enim nec sollicitudin light to DC yet surrounded by parkland * 2/3 BR * 3 BA * pulvinar, nibh eros tincidunt mauris, Garage. eu consequat metus risus eu odio. New Listing

703-525-7568

3074mattis N. Pollard Street felis ultricies eget. Cra fringill. (Web ID 1234567) $1,299,000

For q more information, call Jane Smith at 703-555-1234

$1,879,000

traditional ‘Southern Living’ lifeStyle, ComfortFine, and Elegance

atop prestigious Arlington Ridge! Oakton Loremstyle ipsum dolor sit Likeadipiscing pages from amet, consectetur elit.a decorator magazine, thisnec warm and welcoming custom home Nulla mattis, enim sollicitudin is bright and airy and features a rare pulvinar, nibh eros tincidunt mauris, main floor master suite with two master eu consequat metus risus eu odio. baths. Enjoy the lower level game room, Cras fringilla ullamcorper at along withurna, 7 bedrooms, a circular drivemattis felis ultricies eget. Cra side fringill. Jane Smith way, 3-car load garage, low mainSales Associate (Web ID 1234567) $1,299,000 tenance backyard, panoramic city view, 703-555-1234 8000 square feet, walk to Metro and jsmith@weichert.com For more information, call Jane Smith at 703-555-1234 Pentagon City location, and more!

S N 4 PE 1-

SU N 4 E P 1-

$819,900

This beautifully renovated and reconfigured center hall Rambler is sited on a lushly landscaped (10,307 sqft.) lot in Broyhill Forest. Enjoy the vaulted granite kitchen opening to wrap around deck, gleaming hardwoods, two fireplaces, extensive trim and crown moldings, 4 bedrooms, 3 full designer baths, master with bath ensuite, living room with built-ins, separate dining room plus a breakfast area with backyard views, a fully finished lower level with family room, wet bar, laundry and bonus room with French doors opening to outside (perfect for home office, guests or au-paire) and fixed stairs to the attic for easy access to tons of storage. All conveniently located just steps away from Donaldson Run Park, nature center and hiking trails.

Cras fringilla ullamcorper urna, at

For more information, call Jane Smith at 703-555-1234 q

CAROLE SCHWEITZER

Gorgeous Remodel in the Forest

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$975,000

Insurance

3705 Lorcom Lane

Arlington N

Call 703-527-3300

Jane Smith

Sales Associate 703-555-1234 jsmith@weichert.com

CAROLESCHWEITZER.ISMYREAGENT.COM N

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S Elegance Style, Comfort Nand

consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla mattis, enim nec sollicitudin pulvinar, nibh eros tincidunt mauris, eu consequat metus risus eu odio. Cras fringilla ullamcorper urna, at mattis felis ultricies eget. Dir: 123 Main St. (Web ID 1234567) $1,299,000

Open Sun 1-5 PM

For more information, call Jane Smith at 703-555-1234

8333 CHAPEL LAKE COURT

Jane Smith

Sales Associate 703-555-1234 jsmith@weichert.com

$799,900 8404 KENAN COURT

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123 MAIN ST.

$1,500,000

123 MAIN ST.

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Join the Weichert family. We’re proud of every neW arrival.

Great market, many locations. You’re a free agent, so you can sign on with an exciting team at Weichert – whether you’re an experienced Sales Associate who wants the support to make your business grow or you’re wondering how to kick off a great new real estate career. If you’re new, you can earn your real estate license quickly and return to Weichert for the industry’s best training. If you’re experienced, we’ll For more information contact: help you succeed with our innovative Internet strategy, our industry-leading Open House program, and much more. www.insidenova.com

Jaclyn Jacobsen 973-656-3435

Sun Gazette

For more information, contact Jaclyn Jacobsen at:

973-656-3435 (office) jjacobsen@weichertrealtors.net or jjacobsen@weichertrealtors.net Offices Across America

Arlington Office

4701 Old Dominion Drive • 703-527-3300

SunGazette A R R LL II N N G G TT O O N N A

Where in the World

is Mark Middendorf? is

Right here in Arlington selling houses. Right here in Arlington selling houses. The Spring market has FINALLY arrived The Spring market has FINALLY arrived and inventory is low. It’s a great time to sell. and inventory is low. It’s a great time to sell. Call Mark Middendorf and let me Call Mark Middendorf and let me walk you through a financially positive and walk you through a financially positive and stress free process of selling your home. stress free process of selling your home. Twenty four years of full time experience Twenty four years of full time experience and hundreds of very satisfied clients. and hundreds of very satisfied clients.

LE 1-4 SA N R U FON S PE O

103 North Cleveland Street

John Plank, Associate Broker $1,249,000 (703)528-5646 John.plank@LNF.com LD O Mark Middendorf, Realtor® S (703)928-3915 mark.middendorf@LNF.com

R FO

LE A S

R T DERAC N T U N CO

5420 North 24th Street

5307 5th Street North

Ballston - 3BR 2BA - $750,000 $779,900 $895,000

Lovingly restored and updated LD brick Colonial LD O O S circaS 1939. Pristine wood floors on two levels, period detail, finished basement. Renovated kitchen with granite. 3BR 2BA upstairs. Arlington is our neighborhood, New windows throughout, let us make it yours. large screened-in porch overlooks expansive, North 32nd Street 2310 John Marshall Drive 1812 North Randolph Street #1 Sales 5501 agent for 20 years private fenced yard. Just $1,679,900 $665,000 $1,300,000 Associate Broker, DC, MD and VA 3 blocks to Metro. Off street Glebe ES • Swanson MS BSBA Real Estate Investment & Construction parking. Open Sunday 1-4. Washington-Lee HS - mark.middendorf@longandfoster.com Courtesy of Mark Middendorf, Long and Foster - 703.928.3915 www.johnsellsarlington.com

1236 N. Taylor Street

Total Va. Home Sales Show Softness in 1st Quarter Maybe it was the weather, maybe something more, but first-quarter home sales across Virginia proved relatively anemic. A total of 17,838 properties went to closing across the commonwealth in January, February and March, according to figures from the Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR). That’s down 5.7 percent from the 18,910 transactions reported in the comparable period of 2013. A nasty winter weather that settled in early and didn’t leave until the end of the quarter gets at least some of the blame for the weak numbers. But the sales report “could also be sign of a slowing recovery,” noted the Virginia Center for Housing Research at Virginia Tech, which analyzes sales data for VAR. “If the slow first quarter can indeed be attributed to the weather, we should see sales pick up substantially in the next couple of months,” the analysts suggest. The weak sales report had few bright spots. Only the Roanoke/Lynchburg/Blacksburg corridor saw a year-over-year increase, with sales up 8.3 percent to 1,468.

Ever other corridor was down, including a 9.3-percent drop to 7,614 sales in the broader Northern Virginia region. Sales were down 2.1 percent in Southside Virginia, 2.2 percent in Central Virginia, 4.5 percent in Hampton Roads, 8.5 percent in Central Valley and 12.7 percent in Southwest Virginia. Median sales prices, however, were up in five of the seven corridors, with only Southwest Virginia (down 16.7 percent to $100,000) and Hampton Roads (down 1.4 percent to $192,250) seeing declines.

Median sales prices rose 2.9 percent to $349,900 in Northern Virginia, which as defined by VAR is much larger than most other definitions of the region. It includes the counties of Arlington, Caroline, Clarke, Culpeper, Essex, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, King George, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, Page, Prince William, Rappahannock, Richmond, Shenandoah, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Warren and Westmoreland and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Manassas Park and Winchester. Among other geographic

areas, the median sales price was $188,750 in Central Valley, up 1 percent; $187,000 in Central Virginia, up 6.9 percent; $146,500 in Roanoke/Lynchburg/Blacksburg, up 0.3 percent); and $75,500 in Southside Virginia, up 4.9 percent. Statewide, the median sales price of $235,000 for the first quarter was up 1 percent from the $232,600 reported a year ago. “The median price decreased steadily from the second quarter of 2013, following the typical pattern of seasonal price fluctuation in Virginia,” analysts said. If normal trends

take hold, “prices will increase through the second quarter and level out in the third.” Total sales volume for the first quarter was $5.27 billion, down 4.2 percent from a year before. The average number of days on the market between listing and ratified sales contract for the quarter was 92, essentially unchanged from a year before. Figures represent most, but not all homes on the market. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision. For complete data, see the Web site at www.varealtor.com/ homesales.

SELLERS: ALWAYS INTERVIEWING FOR LISTINGS • CALL BILLY BUCK • Large rear addition • 11,968 sq. ft. lot • Master suite • Dual vanity • Jetted tub • Walk-in closet • Granite counters • 2 fireplaces • Extensive land & hardscape • Attached garage • Bonus room • Move-in ready G MIN CO OON S

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the

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703-528-2288 x21 • www.BuckRealtors.com • 703-855-2825

Buck & Associates, Inc. Realtors • Billy Buck

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Real-Estate Pros Detail the Errors That Turn Off Clients DAVE FACINOLI Staff Writer

Never quit.

With nearly 30 years of experience and an unwavering work ethic, Karen Close has what it takes to bring your transaction to a successful conclusion – and beyond.

As a REALTOR,® Karen Close feels a responsibility to serve as an advocate for her clients throughout every last step of their real estate journey. In other words, when you choose Karen to handle the sale of your home, her desire to protect your best interests and acquire the best price possible never ceases. “A deal isn’t done when the contract is accepted,” Karen explains. “I work hard for my clients every day to help them get the best price.” Karen’s determined approach and steadfast work ethic are indicative of the incomparable level of service she provides her clients. To make the most of your transaction, call Karen today and get to The Heart of the Matter.

Direct: 703-517-9477 Office: 703-748-5489 KarenClose.com

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Real-estate professionals give advice all the time. That’s their job. But do they ever give wrong advice, not enough, or keep quiet when they should speak up? The Sun Gazette asked some local Realtors what is the No. 1 mistake, miscue, misstep or wrong advice a real-estate professional can make that might cause a client not to use them the next time buying or selling a home. Here are their thoughts: Casey Margenau, Re/Max Distinctive: “Sometimes you don’t have to do anything wrong to have someone not use you again. The No. 1 reason is they lose faith in your decisions. If the perception is that the agent cares about their money more than the client, there is a likelihood you won’t be used again. Relationships are built on trust. Sometimes you lose a client because you didn’t tell them what they wanted to hear, but what they needed to hear.” Joan Stansfield, Keller Williams: “I’d say the kiss of death is not letting them know your value proposition and being sure they understand what sets you apart. Another kiss of death is for an agent to come across as though you’re not putting forth much effort or just out for a quick sale. You also have to show up and not be late or cancel on clients. As for bad advice? I’d say it would be over-promising and under-delivering, mostly in communication or services provided. Not staying in touch with them after the sale is a mistake and why a client might not use an agent for another transaction.” Eric Ritland, American Realty: “When buyers are looking for a house, you have to put your needs, tastes and visions aside – and sometimes your opinions. Make things all about the clients. For example, I find I shouldn’t project how I might use the house in a certain way. They don’t always like to hear that. You can see their eyes glaze over.” Karen Briscoe, Huckaby, Briscoe, Conroy Realty Group: “A problem can develop in terms of pricing if the market doesn’t respond the way a client thinks it will. When that happens, they think it’s the agent that’s the problem.” Casey Samson, Samson Properties: “No doubt it’s allowing a seller to overprice their home. In 2013 1,026 homes expired or withdrew from the market unsold. Professional Realtors have no emotional or financial attachment to a home and can put a price within one or two percent of the final price. Some sellers feel their homes are worth more and some Realtors need the business, so they put it on the market too high and it sits. Fact is, correctly priced homes sell. It’s not rocket science.” Karen Close, Century 21: “The worst advice would be dishonest advice. Be true to the proper goal, whether for a sale or a purchase.” John Mentis, Long & Foster: “Not following the instructions of a client. The client is the customer. All an agent can do is advise. But if an agent doesn’t honor a client, they may not use you again.”

Gloria Adams, TTR Sotheby’s “It’s probably not enough communication. Clients want to be informed. So you just have to stay focused on that.” Mark Middendorf, Long & Foster: “One of the biggest things is communication. Poor customer service and not paying attention to a client’s needs turns people off. If you are not giving them sound advice and listening to their needs, you are going in the wrong direction. You have to make a client feel like they are your No. 1 client. I spoke with a client to give updates every day for eight months one time during a transaction process, just to stay in touch.” Dawn Wilson, Keller Williams: “I always ask clients about the particular good or bad experiences with previous Realtors. A lack of communication, not listening and not returning calls or e-mails in a timely fashion are the biggest concerns I hear. Plus, a lack of a relationship.” Craig Mastrangelo, Re/Max Allegiance: “Agents need to make sure expectations of how the process will play out are explained and what your role will be as an agent. Clients need to have a working knowledge and template of how the process will go. Then, you have to make sure you are not overstepping your boundaries about private and confidential information. Handle financial information respectfully.” Laurie Mensing, Long & Foster: “On the listing side, situations when the client objects to your advice and wants to overvalue their home can cause problems.” Billy Buck, Buck & Associates: “I would say lack of communication, and in some cases your opinion about pricing. Also, sometimes the amount of work you can ask a seller to do on their home to get it ready to sell, the client can feel is too extensive. In some cases people don’t want to hear what they have to do to obtain the price they want.” Dee Murphy, Long & Foster: “Communication, communication, communication. Not keeping everyone updated and communicating well is crucial. If there is a lag in communication that keeps a client from reacting to a situation, that can be a deal-breaker.” Jack Shafran, Yeonas and Shafran Real Estate: “I think what is important is to always tell a client the truth, but don’t always tell them everything at once when the transaction is in process. Sometimes that can cause problems. Sometimes you have to tell them things about their property in a delicate fashion, because it can be so emotional.” Steve Wydler, Long & Foster: “The biggest mistake is failure to differentiate from the competition. The listing agents who earn business are the ones who have a broad-based marketing plan that differentiates from the competition, in theory and execution.” Terry Belt, The Belt Team, Keller Williams: “Not telling your client the truth. Most clients do not hire us to tell them what they want to hear, but what they need to hear, even if it is not always the best news. They need to be properly educated and informed in order to make the right decisions in their best interests.”

Sun Gazette

LUXURY N. ARLINGTON RENTAL $5,800/MONTH

Kristin Kelly RE/MAX Hall of Fame Top 10 in Sales - Virginia

703-532-4274

Stately 6 bedroom 4.5 bath Colonial featuring two story entry, sun drenched living room, separate dining room, gourmet kitchen with breakfast room and adjacent family room. Main level office with built-ins. Master en suite with three additional bedrooms on upper level. Large finished rec room, two additional rooms perfect for teen/ au pair and full bath. Two car garage. All less than one mile to EFC Metro and amenities at Westover.

AR8374353. Virtual Tour www.6015washingtonblvd.com Available August 1st.

kkrealtor@aol.com

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J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

5949 Arlington Blvd Arlington, VA 22203

Sun Gazette

853 Jacksonville St., N Arlington, VA 22205

This traditional home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and was designed and constructed in the 1950s. The spacious and bright living areas are enhanced by the clean lines and classic character that have come to define this stylish Arlington home. The lower level offers a roomy recreation room, bedroom and spacious laundry room. $529,900.

This custom built luxury home will exceed all of your expectations! With timeless features throughout: stunning gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances; granite counters; stunning cabinetry and lighting; six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The master suite and a spa inspired bathroom offer a relaxing retreat at the end of the day. This amazing home also offers a two-car garage and gorgeous landscaped yard. Minutes to Ballston Metro, W&OD trails and parks. Listed for $1,495,000.

2121 Jamieson Ave., #2007 Alexandria, VA 22314

1724 Beulah Road Vienna, VA 22182

If you are looking for a view, look no further! This home has a view of the Potomac River and the new Ferris wheel at Washington Harbor! Fresh paint, an updated kitchen and wood floors are the perfect touches for this two bedroom, two bath home, complete with a sun filled den. Walkable to King Street Metro, Whole Foods, shops and restaurants. This home offers one parking space in the garage and extra storage. You will love Carlyle Towers’ amenities; pool, and fitness center. Listed for $524,900.

Charming stone front rambler that sits on a beautiful lot. This adorable home offers hardwood floors on the main level, and open and air floor plan, a lovely living room with a fireplace, an inviting kitchen that offers an access to a large deck that overlooks a picturesque backyard. This lovely home offers four bedrooms and two full bathrooms. This beautiful home is convenient to Wolf Trap, the town of Vienna, Easy access to Route 66, Tysons Corner and Meadow Lark Botanical Gardens. Listed for $625,000.

N.Va. Home Sales Down, But Prices Show Increase Year-over-year sales were down for another month, but average sales prices ticked slightly upward (although median prices were down) as part of a generally anemic Northern Virginia real estate market in May. But the good news for those in the business: The Northern Virginia market in May had its first billion-dollar sales month of the year. A total of 1,998 residential properties went to closing last month, down 17.5 percent from the 2,421 transactions recorded in May 2013, according to figures released June 10 by RealEstate Business Intelligence, an arm of the local multiple-listing service. Data represent sales in Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park. While sales declined, the average sales price rose 1.7 percent from $556,611 to $566,044, as average prices rose in each of three segments of the market: • The average sales price of single-family homes rose 3.4 percent to $745,789. • The average sales price of attached homes, such as townhouses and rowhouses, rose 2.5 percent to $408,260. • The average sales price of condominiums rose 2.4 percent to $334,767. The median sales price of all homes that sold was $480,000, a decline of 2 percent percent from a year before. The median is the point at which half of homes sell for more, half for less. The total sales volume for the month stood at $1.13 billion, down 16.1 percent from the $1.35 billion a year before. Homes that sold in April spent an average of 32 days between listing and ratified sales contract, up from 28 days a year before. Properties that went to closing garnered 98.6 percent of original listing price, down from 98.9 percent Of homes that sold during the month, conventional mortgages represented the means of transacting the sale in 1,364 cases, followed by cash (243), VA-backed loans (229) and FHAbacked mortgages (126) At the end of the month, there were 4,545 properties on the market across the region, up more than 44 percent from the 3,151 homes available to prospective purchasers a year before. New listings coming onto the market in April were up 8.9 from a year before.

Where is the market headed? The number of pending sales and homes under contract were down in April from a year before, suggesting there could still be some softness as the spring market sashays toward summer. Figures represent most, but not all, homes on the market. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision. Home Sales Down, Prices Up in Inner Core: Home sales across the District of Columbia and its inner-core suburbs were down in May from a year before, and even an increase in average sales prices couldn’t push the total sales volume above the same point last year. Total sales across the inner area stood at 4,551 last month, a decline of 10.6 percent from the 5,088 of May 2013, according to figures reported June 10 by RealEstate Business Intelligence, an arm of the local multiple-listing service. The good news? That year-over-year decline was significantly less than the 8.8 percent dropoff reported in April’s sales report. Figures represent sales in the District of Columbia; Arlington and Fairfax counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church in Virginia; and Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland. The average sales price of all homes that went to closing during the month was up 3.5 percent from $508,135 to $525,969, with increases in all three segments of the market: single-family, detached and condo. Add it all up, and sales volume for the month was $2.39 billion, down from just under $2.59 billion a year before. Homes that sold in May spent an average of 38 days on the market between listing and ratified sales contract, unchanged from a year before. Homes that sold garnered 98.7 percent of listing price, up a tick from 98.6 percent. There were 10,446 homes on the market for prospective purchasers (and looky-loos) to peruse, up 30.6 percent from a year before. The number of pending sales and homes under contract in May were down from a year ago, perhaps in part due to the lingering effects of a winter season that wasn’t conducive to home searches. Figures represent most, but not all, homes on the market. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision.

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Home Sales Across Arlington Showed Softness During May File the May home-sales report for Arlington under the “It could have been worse” category. While home sales were off compared to a year before, they were not down as much as many neighboring jurisdictions, and average prices – at least in the single-family category – continued to rise. There were 310 sales of existing homes countywide last month, according to figures reported June 10 by RealEstate Business Intelligence, an arm of the local multiple-listing service. That’s down 6.1 percent from the 330 properties that went to closing in May 2013. The average sales price of all homes that sold in May stood at $654,988, up 4.5 percent from $627,041 a year ago. But that increase was concentrated in just one segment of the market: • The average sales price of single-family homes rose 6.1 percent to $934,192. • The average price of attached homes, such as townhouses, declined 1.2 percent to $450,653. • The average price of condominiums declined 4.3 percent to $401,949. The median sales price was up 2.2 percent to $570,750. The median is the point at which half of homes sell for more, half for less. Fifty-five properties sold for $1 million or more. Add it all up, and the total sales vol-

ume for May was $203 million, down 1.9 percent from the $206.9 million reported a year before. Homes that sold in May spent an average of 33 days between listing and ratified sales contract, an increase from the 28-day average a year before, and garnered an average 98.9 percent of listing price, unchanged from a year before. Conventional financing was the method of transacting sales in 210 cases, followed by cash (59), VA-backed loans (23) and FHA-backed mortgages (12). There continues to be a good amount of inventory for prospective perusing purchasers. At the end of the month, there were 575 properties on the market, up nearly 30 percent from a year before. Where is the local market headed? The anemia that began to grip the region’s real estate market late last year is proving hard to shake, even as the rough winter season gives way to spring. The number of pending sales in the pipeline in May was down 10.9 percent from a year before, suggesting no swift rebound is in store. Better news: The number of new pending sales in Arlington is roughly equal to a year before. Figures represent most, but not all, homes on the market. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision. For full data, see the Web site at www. rbintel.com/statistics/arlington-countyva.

Va. Home Sales Can’t Seem to Shake Off Doldrums of Winter

flows are more the norm than the exception. “We expect the prices to increase at a moderate rate throughout the spring, as long as inventory increases at an adequate rate to meet demand,” the Virginia Tech analysis opines. Total sales volume for April was $2.65 billion, down 2.4 percent from a year before but the highest total since last August. Homes that sold in April spent an average of 81 days between listing and ratified sales contract. That was up slightly from a year before, when homes spent an average of 78 days on the market. All eyes continue to watch interest rates, but they have remained remarkably stable for the past year. After spiking from 3.5 percent to more than 4 percent in late spring 2013, the average 30-year mortgage rate has been in a narrow range of 4.2 percent to 4.5 percent ever since, according to Freddie Mac. In April, the average interest rate of 4.34 percent was unchanged from a month before. Figures represent most, but not all homes on the market. All figures are preliminary, and are subject to revision. For complete data, see the Web site at www.varealtor.com/homesales.

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J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Uh-oh: It appears the harsh winter weather wasn’t exclusively to blame for recent anemic home sales across Virginia. “Evidence is building that we have entered a slow stage of the housing-market recovery,” notes the Virginia Center for Housing Research at Virginia Tech, which analyzes monthly data from the Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR). Home sales in April stood at 8,241 statewide, down about 5 percent from the 8,669 transactions a year before, according to VAR figures. For months, weak sales figures have been attributed, at least in part, to a long, rough winter that kept prospective buyers at home. But now the Virginia Tech analysts have another thought. “High sales last spring and summer may have had a market-clearing effect,” they surmise. “Many people who had been waiting for prices to recover sold their homes [in 2013], while buyers took advantage of still-low interest rates in the face of increasing prices.” And those prices do keep rising: The median sales price of all homes that sold in April across Virginia was $257,145, up 2.9 percent from a year before and 7.6 percent from two years ago. It was the highest median price since last summer, although such seasonal ebbs and

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Sun Gazette

Overall Size of New Homes Has Reached a Record Level SCOTT McCAFFREY and DAVE FACINOLI Staff Writers

New homes are bigger than ever across the region and nation, a fact that surprises some local real estate professionals but is not a shock to others. “The way that we live today is different – we like bigger homes,” said Casey Margenau of Re/Max Distinctive. Recently released U.S. Census Bureau data puts the average size of a single-family home constructed in 2013 at 2,662 square feet, higher than it’s ever been and 52 percent larger than the average home constructed in 1978. “That doesn’t surprise me at all,” said Joan Stansfield of Keller Williams Realty. “So few buyers out there now are happy with small rooms, compartmentalized floor plans, and most all want large, open floor plans, a bath on every level, finished basements, storage space and more bedrooms than they have family members.” With one exception – from 2007 to 2008, when the average size declined by 6 square feet (to 2,473) – the average size has risen every year since 1995. It surpassed 2,000 square feet for the first time in 1989, according to Census Bureau numbers, Geographically, the largest average size in 2013 was in the South, at 2,751 square feet, followed by the Northeast (2,645), Midwest (2,557) and West (2,534).

Until the mid-1990s, the largest new homes were found in the Northeast, but its place at the top of the list was supplanted by the South. The median square footage of new homes also is rising, standing at a record 2,478 nationally in 2013. That’s up from a median of 1,650 square feet in 1978. Karen Briscoe of the Huckaby, Briscoe, Conroy Realty Group said the ever-increasing size flies in the face of some other trends. “I am a little surprised, because I thought buyers wanted more energy efficiency and a small carbon footprint in new homes, and we were headed in that cycle,” she said. “Maybe that generation of buyers is not there yet.” Casey Samson of Samson Properties said economics factors in to the equation. “With lot prices increasing, a builder needs to build the maximum square footage they can,” he said. “It costs them $100 per square foot to build and sells for $340 per square foot – a $240 profit for every square foot,” he said. That view is echoed by Rob Ferguson of Re/Max Allegiance. “The cost of construction keeps going up, so square footage has to be maximized,” he said. “Construction prices have gone up substantially with materials and labor, so Continued on Page 22

WHAT’S NEW IN HOMES? Of the 569,000 single-family homes completed in 2013, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau: The average single-family house completed was 2,598 square feet. 518,000 had air-conditioning. 59,000 had two or fewer bedrooms and 251,000 had four bedrooms or more. 27,000 had one and onehalf bathrooms or less, whereas 188,000 homes had three or more bathrooms. 166,000 had a full or partial basement, while 91,000 had a crawl space, and 312,000 had a slab or other type of foundation. 305,000 had two or more stories. 333,000 had a forced-air furnace and 216,000 had a heat pump as the primary heating system. 347,000 had a heating system powered by gas and

214,000 had a heating system powered by electricity. Of the 429,000 single-family homes sold in 2013: The average new single-family home sold was built on a lot of 15,456 square feet. The average sales price of new single-family homes sold was $324,500, compared with the average price of $292,200 in 2012. The average price per square foot for new single-family homes sold was $93.70. 120,000 used vinyl siding as the principal type of exterior wall material, while 12,000 used wood. 300,000 had 2-car garages, 98,000 had garages for three cars or more. 207,000 had one fireplace and 20,000 had two or more fireplaces. 91,000 contractor-built single-family homes were started in 2013. The average contract price was $298,000.

Arlington long & foster

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Congratulations to our M ay 2 0 1 4 H H H H H H H H H H H H Top produCers H H H H H H H H H H H H

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‘Homes-on-Public-Land’ Plan The Johanna Baker Team Has Yet to Win Over Everyone Hear What Our Clients SCOTT McCAFFREY Staff Writer

County Board members have another tightrope to walk, this one pitting those who seek expanded access to affordable housing against those worried that additional units will come at the expense of open space. Ever since County Manager Barbara Donnellan in May proposed a list of publicly owned sites that potentially could be used for housing, little has emerged in the way of community consensus on the concept. “What we’ve heard is a very mixed reaction,” County Board Chairman Jay Fisette told a recent meeting of the Arlington Interfaith Council. The report “was warmly received by some, and created some anxiety” among others, Fisette acknowledged. Donnellan earlier had been directed by County Board members to come up with a list; the board had been lobbied by Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement (VOICE), a group that believes the local government should make some of the land it owns available for affordable units. County staff looked at 675 different parcels owned either by the county government or school system, then winnowed the list. “None of these are a done deal,” said

Fisette, who said the end game was not to take away parkland. “As we grow . . . we need more” open space, he said. Of the eight government-owned properties that made the cut, the most controversial proposal may be the consideration of putting housing on Lubber Run Park. Of the schools-owned land, the suggestion of using land at Thomas Jefferson Middle School has generated the most blowback. (The School Board also is actively pursuing a proposal to place a new elementary school on the Thomas Jefferson site.) VOICE long has pressed county officials for more specificity, and has expressed concern that officials were not taking their pleas seriously. Fisette said that he couldn’t make any promises on specific locations or numbers of units until a broad community process plays out. “The last thing I want to do is make a commitment I can’t keep,” he said.

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“Throughout my entire search, Sally worked tirelessly to maintain an open line of communication allowing for me to make a more educated decision. As a Northern Virginian native, Sally’s knowledge of the area proved invaluable and enabled me to determine the most suitable location for my new home. I always found comfort in feeling that I was a priority to her” - Joe Freet Arlington Resident

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Carol, Jerry & Jinx A few of our satisfied customers. Call us for “Now that we're beginning to settle in after our move, we want to references, our clients are our best advocates! express our gratitude for your expertise in selling our house in

NVAR Lifetime Top Producers! The #1 Family Team in Arlington! We do more business than over 99% of all the other agents in Northern Virginia! Call Carol, 703-622-4441, to buy or sell,

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Arlington. We valued your professionalism and wisdom “You made this process work seamlessly and you made me feel like throughout the precess. You made it painless!” Kathy & Mike, a valued friend. I truly felt that I was in the hands of a trusted, professional couple who really cared about the people they work “Ther is no way I culd av ted jt with. Thank you so much for all you did ... I truly value your aboy to mang eveythn o friendship & your counsel. Most Sincerely,” Dian P. aesly -- and get th pl old fr  o ft! Tak Car,” Cynthia B. “Particularly impressive, we believe, was your proactive approach to the issues, attention to detail, and effort to “Thank you so much for the excellent service you gave keep us fully informed throughout the process. Best wishes us in selling our home in Arlington and buying one in to you in the future. Sincerely,” Diane S. Reston. You anticipated concerns and had plans of action ready. During the weeks we all worked together, “We truly appreciate all the wisdom, insight, knowledge, we came to see you as friends we could count on. If and professionalism you brought to our search for a you need a reference at any time, count on us. And home. You really made this happen for us and we are so please stay in touch. All the best, " Steve T. and grateful. Thank you so much! Sincerely,” Jenny, Jason S. Stephenie O.

Sun Gazette

D.C. Region Almost Back to Its Pre-Recession Economy The Washington region remains tantalizingly close to, but just below, its prerecession economy, having rebounded better than most of the nation, according to updated figures. The D.C. metro area sits at 97 percent of pre-recession economic levels, compared to 88 percent nationally, according to the most recent National Association of Home Builders/First American “Leading Markets Index.” The D.C. region, which has hovered at just below 100 percent on the ranking for months, was 77th out of 351 U.S. metro areas, according to the June report. Of those 351 metro markets, 56 have returned to or exceeded their last normal levels of economic and housing activity, a net gain of nine metros year over year. The index’s nationwide score of 88 percent held steady from the previous month. Meanwhile, 30 percent of metro areas saw their score rise this month and 83 percent have shown an improvement over the past year. “Markets are gradually returning to

normal levels of housing and economic activity,” said NAHB chairman Kevin Kelly, a home builder and developer from Wilmington, Del. “When we see more sustainable levels of job growth, this will unleash pent-up demand and bring more buyers into the marketplace.” The ranking is derived from three components: housing prices, construction permits and employment. “Well over one-third of all markets are operating at a level of at least 90 percent of previous norms, and this bodes well for a continuing housing recovery in the year ahead,” said Kurt Pfotenhauer, vice chairman of First American Title Insurance Co. The five best performing communities all were tied to the booming energy sector: Odessa, Texas, was at 243 percent of its pre-recession economy, followed by Midland, Texas (216 percent); Casper, Wyo. (157 percent); Bismarck, N.D. (157 percent); and Grand Forks, N.D. (142 percent). Baton Rouge, La., which ranked sixth best in June, continues to top the list of

major metros on the LMI, with a score of 140 percent of its last normal level. Other major metros at the top of the list include Honolulu; Oklahoma City; Austin, Texas and Houston. Rounding out the top 10 among major markets are Los Angeles; San Jose, Calif.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Pittsburgh and Salt Lake City – all of whose LMI scores indicate that their market activity now equals or exceeds previous norms. “Of the three components in the LMI, the one lagging is single-family housing permits, which is only 43 percent of the way back to normal while home prices are 26 percent above their last normal level and employment is at 95 percent of its previous norm,” said NAHB chief economist David Crowe. For single-family permits and home prices, 2000-2003 is used as the last normal period, and for employment, 2007 is the base comparison. The three components are then averaged to provide an overall score for each market; a national score is calculated based on national measures of the three metrics. An index value above one indicates that a market

has advanced beyond its previous normal level of economic activity. At the bottom of the ranking stood Flint, Mich., which is only at 60 percent of its pre-recession economic strength. Also at the bottom were Dalton, Ga. (61 percent); Rockford, Ill. (62 percent); Mansfield, Ohio (64 percent); and Monroe, Mich. (64 percent). Las Vegas was the largest metro area near the bottom of the rankings; with an economy running at 70 percent of pre-recession levels, it ranked 329th out of 351 metro areas. Detroit, which also was running at 70 percent, came in at 323nd. Among Virginia metro areas outside Washington, Hampton Roads stood at 98 percent of pre-recession levels, ranking 69th; Harrisonburg, at 94 percent, ranked 97th; Charlottesville, at 92 percent, ranked 110th; Richmond, at 90 percent, ranked 128th; Lynchburg, at 89 percent, ranked 134th; and Winchester, at 88 percent, ranked 154th. Roanoke, in 216th place at 82 percent, was at the bottom of the ranking among Virginia metro areas.

A substantial number of prospective home-buyers want new construction, but not as many are willing to pay the premium necessary to get it, according to a new survey from the Trulia online real estate site. Just over two in five of those surveyed

(41 percent) said they would “strongly” or “somewhat” prefer to buy a newly built home, if the price was comparable to existing properties. Just 21 percent strongly or somewhat prefer an existing home, while the remaining 38 percent have no preference.

However, new homes cost more. Trulia calculates that new homes built in 2013 or 2014 are typically priced 20 percent higher than older homes of a similar size and location. Among those who said they strongly prefer a new home, less than half – 46 percent – are willing to pay at least 20 percent more to purchase a new home versus a comparable existing home. “Barriers often stand in the way of buying a new home,” said Jed Kolko, Trulia’s chief economist. “Most people who say they strongly prefer a new home aren’t willing to pay the premium, and many regions of the country have little single-family construction. Still, as the housing market recovers, new homes will be a growing share of the national market.” Since the housing bubble burst, new homes have been a smaller-than-normal share of the for-sale market. Today, buyers looking for new homes will have the most luck in Texas, North Carolina, and South Carolina, where single-family home construction is highest after adjusting for market size, based on Census permit data, according to the survey. The rate of single-family-home construction is lowest in New York and

San Francisco, where there is less new construction overall and where the vast majority of new construction is in multi-unit buildings, not single-family homes. “Why do more people prefer new homes? The top reasons are modern features and the chance to customize the home,” said Kolko. “Fewer people prefer existing homes, but those who do point to traditional features and living in a more established neighborhood. For many people, the best of all worlds might be a newly built home in an older neighborhood.” Fifty-nine percent of Americans said they would prefer to buy a new home to have modern features, such as bigger closets, a kitchen island, open floor plan, walls pre-wired for flat-screen TVs, or radiant floor heating. The second most popular reason is being able to customize the home (56 percent), while the third is to spend less on maintenance and repairs (55 percent). These reasons were even more pronounced among the people who strongly prefer new homes to existing homes.

Survey: Buyers Want New Properties, But Not at Higher Cost

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Sun Gazette

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• This original farmhouse for this Bon Air area • Updated to modern standards, kitchen/family room combo • 3 BR+ office & 2.5 BA, open floor plan on main level • Master suite with giant sunken whirlpool tub in spa room • Grand front porch and 2-car garage; walk to Ballston Metro

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For further information and data, see the Web site at http://info.trulia.com.

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Updated Showplace Is Nestled in the Woods

Original 1950s Rambler Has Seen Extensive Expansion, Updates for Today’s Living Featured Property

ket, listed at $1,300,000 by Carol and Jerry McEwen and Jinx McEwen Lunger of Long & Foster Real Estate. We’ll let the photos do much of the talking, but there are highlights throughout the three level, three-deck property, which is set on a sumptuous lot of more than 13,500 square feet. Loving care has been lavished throughout the property. From new Berber carpeting in the breakfast room to the renovated recreation room to the new marble fireplace in the formal living room, the transformation into showplace – showpalace, perhaps – was achieved with care. Open formal spaces on the main level are augmented by the multiple decks, the comfortable and appealing kitchen (with large separate breakfast room) and two

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Address: 2415 North Lincoln Street, Arlington (22207). Listed at: $1,300,000 by Carol and Jerry McEwen and Jinx McEwen Lunger, Long & Foster Real Estate (703) 622-4441. Schools: Taylor Elementary, Swanson Middle, Washington-Lee High School. TM

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Just as mild-mannered reporter Clark Kent can be transformed into Superman, this week’s featured property showcases transformation in its own way. A charming but unprepossessing curb appeal only hints at the exuberance of this expanded, nearly 5,800-square foot showplace set in bucolic splendor in the sought-after Dover-Crystal neighborhood. Backing to Windy Run Park and situated close to a number of nature centers and the W&OD Trail and an easy drive to the Lyon Village, Lee Heights and Cherrydale shopping areas, the home is perfectly positioned. And with updates galore, it’s a home with classic elements, but one ready to exceed expectations of a new generation of owners. The property currently is on the mar-

bedrooms, including the soaring, glorious master suite with access to its own private deck. The second level is home to a large family room with its own balcony, a perfect spot for entertaining in style. There also is plentiful storage space here, as well. The lower level is a delight, with a large recreation room, game room, exercise area, bar area, workshop and a guest suite. From this level, you have access to the patio and Oriental garden, where you can enjoy the changing scenery of the bucolic setting. Just as Clark Kent is transformed into Superman, this classic home is a superhero in its own right. Articles are prepared by the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients. For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on hav-

Sun Gazette

Some Improvement Projects Pay Off, But Others Don’t A home’s curb appeal is crucial because it can be the first thing buyers notice about a home. That’s why Realtors rated exterior projects among the most valuable home improvement projects in the 2014 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report. “With many factors to consider such as cost and time, deciding what remodeling projects to undertake can be a difficult decision for homeowners,” said National Association of Realtors President Steve Brown, co-owner of Irongate Inc., Realtors in Dayton, Ohio. “A home’s curb appeal is always critical since it’s the first impression for potential buyers. That’s why exterior replacement projects offer the greatest bang for the buck,” Brown said. “Projects such as entry door, siding and window replacements can recoup homeowners more than 78 percent of costs upon resale.” NAR’s consumer Web site HouseLogic.com highlights the results of the report in its “Best Bets for Remodeling Your Home in 2014” slideshow. The site also provides information and advice on various home improvement projects, including a guide to kitchen remodeling

with the best payback and dozens of exterior replacement projects. Realtors judged a steel entry door replacement as the project expected to return the most money, with an estimated 96.6 percent of costs recouped upon resale. The steel entry door replacement is consistently the least expensive project in the annual Cost vs. Value Report, costing little more than $1,100 on average. Eight of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally, in terms of value recouped, are exterior projects. A wood deck addition came in second with an estimated 87.4 percent of costs recouped upon resale. Two different siding replacement projects also landed in the top 10, including fiber-cement siding, expected to return 87 percent of costs, and vinyl siding, expected to return 78.2 percent of costs. Out of the top 10 projects, the fiber-cement siding replacement project improved the most since last year, with costs recouped increasing by more than 15 percent. Two garage door replacements were also in the top 10: a midrange garage

door replacement is expected to return 83.7 percent while an upscale garage door replacement follows closely at 82.9 percent of costs recouped. Rounding out the top exterior remodeling projects were two window replacements; a wood window replacement is estimated to recoup 79.3 percent of costs and a vinyl window replacement is estimated to recoup 78.7 percent of costs. According to the report, two interior remodeling projects in particular can recoup substantial value at resale. An attic bedroom is ranked fourth and is expected to return 84.3 percent of costs; nationally, the average cost for the project is just above $49,000. The second interior remodeling project in the top 10 is the minor kitchen remodel. The project landed at number seven and is estimated to recoup 82.7 percent of costs. Nationally, the average cost for the project is just under $19,000. The improvement project likely to return the least is the home office remodel, estimated to recoup 48.9 percent. For the report, Realtors provided their insights into local markets and buyer home preferences within those

markets. For 2014, the national average cost-value ratio stands at 66.1 percent, a jump of 5.5 points over last year and the largest increase since 2005, when the ratio increased 6.1 points to reach a high of 86.7 percent. For the second consecutive year, Cost vs. Value data shows that the value of remodeling is up for all 35 projects included in the survey. Additionally, for the first time in four years, improved resale value of residential housing had more of an influence in the cost-value ratio than construction costs. A modest 2.2 percent increase in average national construction costs was more than offset by an 11.5 percent improvement in average esale value. The 2014 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 100 markets across the country. This is the 16th consecutive year that the report, which is produced by Remodeling magazine publisher Hanley Wood LLC, was completed in cooperation with NAR.

Austin has been the capital of Texas since 1839, and in 2013 the area became the nation’s capital for population growth, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates released recently.

San Marcos, Cedar Park and Georgetown – each near Austin – ranked among the 10 fastest-growing cities with populations of 50,000 or more during the year ending July 1, 2013.

San Marcos was number one in percent growth for the second consecutive year, with Austin itself gaining more people (nearly 21,000) than any city with fewer than 1 million residents, according to the survey. The South and West dominated the list of fastest-growing municipalities between 2012 and 2013, claiming all of the top 15, seven of which were in Texas. Frisco and McKinney (near Dallas), Odessa (in West Texas) and Pearland (near Houston) were the other Texas cities on the list. (See Table 1 for complete list.) In terms of numeric growth, 13 of the 15 cities that added the most people between 2012 and 2013 were in the South or West, except for New York City, which ranked first in numeric population growth. The nation’s largest city, New York, added 61,440 people in the year ending July 1, 2013. New York continued to be the nation’s most populous city by a wide margin, with 8.4 million residents in 2013, followed by Los Angeles and Chicago. The list of the 15 most populous cities has remained unchanged since last year, aside from Indianapolis moving past Jacksonville to number 12. The list of the top 15 numeric gainers was also bookended by another city outside the South or West: Columbus, Ohio, which gained 12,450 people. In between were five Texas cities (Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth) and three in California (Los Angeles, San Diego and San Jose). The statistics released today cover all local governmental units, including incorporated places (like cities and towns), minor civil divisions (such as townships) and consolidated cities (government units for which the functions of an incorporated place and its parent

county have merged). Other highlights: • Of the 19,508 incorporated places in the United States, about 76 percent (14,824) had fewer than 5,000 people, with less than 4 percent (743) having populations of 50,000 or more in 2013. • Fourteen areas passed the 50,000population mark between 2012 and 2013, including six in the West, four in the South and four in the Midwest. The areas in the West were Casa Grande (50,111) in Arizona, and Aliso Viejo (50,175), Dublin (52,105) and Palm Desert (50,508) in California; and Tigard, Ore. (50,444) and Sammamish, Wash. (50,169). Those in the South were Doral, Fla. (50,213); Huntersville, N.C. (50,458); Enid, Okla. (50,725); and Grapevine, Texas (50,195). The Midwestern cities included Ankeny, Iowa (51,567); Lenexa, Kan. (50,344); Kentwood, Mich. (50,233); and Apple Valley, Minn. (50,201). • No areas dropped below the 50,000 threshold between 2012 and 2013. Also released recently were July 1, 2013, estimates of the number of housing units for the nation, states and counties. There were 132.8 million housing units in the U.S. on July 1, 2013, up 467,000 (0.4 percent) over the past year. Texas gained more units than any other state (118,000), with North Dakota having the fastest rate of growth (3.1 percent). Among counties with 5,000 or more housing units, Williams and Stark in North Dakota led all counties in percentage growth. The population clock, one of the most visited features of the www.census.gov Web site, displays continuously updated projections of the total U.S. population, including the rate of births, deaths and net migration for the United States.

Texas Among Areas That Are Seeing Big Population Growth

Sun Gazette

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Sun Gazette

Data Suggest U.S. Market Remains in a ‘Balancing Act’ Existing-home sales increased for the first time this year in April, while inventory meaningfully increased and home price growth moderated, according to the National Association of Realtors. Monthly sales gains in the West and South offset a modest decline in the Midwest while the Northeast was unchanged. Total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 1.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.65 million in April from 4.59 million in March, but are 6.8 percent below the 4.99 million-unit level in April 2013. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, expected the improvement. “Some growth was inevitable after sub-par housing activity in the first quarter, but improved inventory is expanding choices and sales should generally trend upward from this point,” he said. “Annual home sales, however, due to a sluggish first quarter, will likely be lower than last year.” Total housing inventory at the end of April jumped 16.8 percent to 2.29 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 5.9-month supply at the current sales pace, up from 5.1 months in March. Unsold inventory is 6.5 percent higher than a year ago, when there was a 5.2month supply. “We’ll continue to see a balancing act between housing inventory and price

growth, which remains stronger than normal simply because there have not been enough sellers in many areas. More inventory and increased new-home construction will help to foster healthy market conditions,” Yun added. The median existing-home price for all housing types in April was $201,700, which is 5.2 percent above April 2013; in the first quarter the median price was 8.6 percent above a year earlier. “Current price data suggests a trend of slower growth, which bodes well for preserving favorable affordability conditions in much of the country,” Yun said. Earlier this month, NAR reported the market share of all-cash purchases has risen despite a downtrend in distressed home sales and investor activity. Distressed homes – foreclosures and short sales – accounted for 15 percent of April sales, down from 18 percent in April 2013. Ten percent of April sales were foreclosures, and 5 percent were short sales. Foreclosures sold for an average discount of 16 percent below market value in April, while short sales were discounted 10 percent. NAR President Steve Brown, co-owner of Irongate, Inc., Realtors in Dayton, Ohio, said there was some heating of the market last month. “The typical time on market shrunk in April, with four out of 10 homes selling in less than a month,” he said. “Homes that show well and are properly priced tend to sell the fastest. More housing inventory gives buyers

better choices, and takes the pressure off of the buying process, which is a welcome sign, especially for first-time buyers.” Properties sold faster for the fourth straight month in April, reflecting the prolonged lag in inventory relative to demand. The median time on market for all homes was 48 days in April, down from 55 days in March; it was 43 days on market in April 2013. Short sales were on the market for a median of 96 days in April, while foreclosures typically sold in 56 days and non-distressed homes took 45 days. Forty-one percent of homes sold in April were on the market for less than a month. According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage was 4.34 percent in April, unchanged from March but up from 3.45 percent in April 2013. First-time buyers continue to represent fewer than one-third of all buyers at 29 percent in April, down from 30 percent in March; they were 29 percent in April 2013. All-cash sales comprised 32 percent of transactions in April, compared with 33 percent in March and 32 percent in April 2013. Individual investors, who account for many cash sales, purchased 18 percent of homes in April, up from 17 percent in March; they were 19 percent in April 2013 Single-family home sales inched up

0.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million in April from 4.04 million in March, but are 7.7 percent below the 4.40 million pace a year ago. The median existing single-family home price was $201,100 in April, up 4.7 percent from April 2013. Existing condominium and co-op sales rose 7.3 percent to an annual rate of 590,000 units in April from 550,000 units in March, but are unchanged from April 2013. The median existing condo price was $205,500 in April, which is 8.3 percent higher than a year ago. Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast were unchanged at an annual rate of 600,000 in April, but are 6.3 percent below April 2013. The median price in the Northeast was $244,000, down 0.4 percent from a year ago. Existing-home sales in the Midwest slipped 1.0 percent in April to a pace of 1.03 million, and are 9.6 percent below a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $157,200, which is 5.8 percent above April 2013. In the South, existing-home sales increased 1.0 percent to an annual level of 1.94 million in April, but are 3.5 percent below April 2013. The median price in the South was $173,200, up 3.2 percent from a year ago. Existing-home sales in the West rose 4.9 percent to a pace of 1.08 million in April, but are 10.0 percent below a year ago. The median price in the West was $291,200, which is 9.7 percent above April 2013.

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

OPEN SUND AY 6/29 FROM 14PM

Sun Gazette

UNDER CON

TRACT

Survey Sees Some Improvement in Realtors’ Paychecks Reflecting the 11.5-percent growth in home prices last year, income and sales volume jumped for the third year in a row, according to the 2014 National Association of Realtors Member Profile. The survey also found an increase in new and younger members to NAR in 2013. The survey’s results are representative of the nation’s Realtors; members of NAR account for about half of the approximately 2 million active real estate licensees in the U.S. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, said recovery in the housing market since the downturn continues to improve the earnings of real estate professionals. “Fueled mostly by rising home sales and prices, the median gross income of a Realtor® increased to $47,700 in 2013 from $43,500 in 2012, marking a 9.6 percent rise and a sharp gain from $34,900 in 2011,” he said. “Although the median number of transactions or commercial deals remained unchanged from last year at 12, this marked a continued return to pre-recession levels after bottoming out at seven transactions in 2008 and 2009.” There are two sides to every real estate transaction — one each for the seller and the buyer. As expected, median gross income and number of transactions generally increases with experience. Last year, NAR members in business for more than 16 years earned $70,200 and made 15 transactions. Those with three-to-five years earned less than half that amount ($30,100) and had 10 transactions. Incomes also varied by license type, as members licensed as brokers earned $66,300 in 2013, while the median earnings for sales agents increased $1,000 from the previous year to $35,000. Last year also brought an influx of new and younger members to NAR. Years of experience in real estate decreased to 12 years from 13 years in 2012; the typical tenure at a firm decreased to six years from seven years; and the age of members decreased to 56 years from 57 years. Three percent of all Realtors are under 30 years of age, 16

Did you know that the first edition of the Northern Virginia Sun rolled off the presses on Dec. 12, 1935? Since then, the Sun and its staff have made it a priority to stay on top of the local real estate scene. Through good times and bad, the paper has kept up with where the market has been, where it is and, most important, where is it going. Stay in touch with our comprehensive coverage.

were next at 17 percent, followed by commercial brokerage at 16 percent. Smaller percentages were also in counseling, land development, auctions and commercial appraisal. Realtors continue to rely on repeat business and referrals. Repeat business accounted for a median 21 percent of activity in 2013 and is higher for those with more experience. For members in the business 16 years or more, repeat business was 42 percent of their activity. Referrals accounted for an additional 21 percent of all business. NAR members understand the importance of a web presence and communicating with their clients through several channels. More than two-thirds have a personal Web site – operational for a median of eight years – and 91 percent report their firm has an online presence. Sixtyone percent of the respondents use social or professional networking sites, an increase of 5 percent from 2012, and 12 percent have a blog. Realtors use a variety of communications methods when interacting with current clients or customers, with 94 percent preferring e-mail, followed by telephone at 90 percent and text messaging at 80 percent. Compensation structures for Realtors and firm affiliation remained mostly the same from 2012. Sixty-eight percent of respondents are compensated through a split commission arrangement, 17 percent receive all of the commission and

John Plank Real Estate Services, Inc. Long & Foster Real Estate john.plank@longandfoster.com (703) 528-5646

#1 Sales Agent for 20+ years Over 1,500 Homes Sold Over 25 Years of Full Time Experience

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753. Email: fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov. Web site: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

another 4 percent receive a commission plus a share of profits; 11 percent received some other form of compensation. Eighty-two percent of members work as independent contractors for their firms. The vast majority of Realtors receive no fringe benefits, although 33 percent are covered by errors and omissions insurance. Only 5 percent receive health insurance through their firm. NAR members are well-educated (50 percent hold a bachelor’s degree or higher), own a home (86 percent), invest in at least one residential investment property (39 percent), and bring a wide range of expertise, skills and experience to the profession. Only 6 percent began their career in real estate, with the majority having previous full-time careers in management, business or financial (19 percent) or sales and retail (15 percent). Fortyone percent of those fluent in other languages speak Spanish and 96 percent are registered to vote. Respondents worked for a firm typically with one office and had been with that firm for six years. Fifty-seven percent of members are affiliated with an independent firm, and 38 percent are with a franchised company; 5 percent are other. Nine percent of Realtors report their firm was bought by or merged with another firm during the past two years, down for the second consecutive year and from 11 percent in the 2012 study.

BSBA, R.E. Investment & Construction Associate Broker Licensed in VA, DC & MD

You Deserve The Best! Buying? Selling? Both? Over the last 20 years, no other agent has successfully listed and sold more homes in and around Arlington than John Plank. Proven, customized, comprehensive marketing & listing program with an exceptional record of success. My unparalleled market knowledge of current & historic trends benefits buyers and sellers alike. My negotiating skills and creative techniques optimize your bottom line. Avoid stress and surprises with a caring, dedicated responsible professional. I pride myself on my reputation, commitment to integrity and serving the needs of my clients. I look forward to being of service.

www.johnsellsarlington.com

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percent are between ages 30 and 44, and 24 percent are 65 and older. “Realtors bring value to buyers and sellers, help build communities, and encourage responsible home-ownership behaviors,” said NAR President Steve Brown, co-owner of Irongate, Inc., Realtors in Dayton, Ohio. “The fact that the number of members with one year or less of experience rose to 9 percent in 2013 from 5 percent the year before shows that those agents getting into the field are attracted to the many benefits and business opportunities that come with being a Realtor.” The typical NAR member works 40 hours per week. Women represent 57 percent of all members, accounting for 53 percent of brokers and 62 percent of sales agents. More than three-quarters of all Realtors cite real estate as their only occupation, and 82 percent (up two percent from last year) are certain they will remain in the business for at least two more years. This share is higher than the previous two years, indicating the optimism that’s seen in today’s market. Most members – 57 percent – are licensed as sales agents; 26 percent are brokers, 17 percent broker associates and 3 percent appraisers (some hold more than one license). Thirteen percent of members have one personal assistant, while 3 percent have two or more personal assistants. Several factors limit potential clients in completing transactions. Members said finding the right property was the biggest challenge (33 percent) followed by obtaining a mortgage (25 percent). “The survey indicates that inventory shortages, overly restrictive mortgage lending standards and the rise in home prices and interest rates last year had an impact on Realtors’ ability to help their client find the right property,” said Yun. Similar to 2012, eight out of 10 NAR members focus on residential sales and 73 percent have secondary real estate real estate specialties. Of those members with secondary specialties, residential brokerage is the largest at 35 percent. Both residential property management and relocation

Sun Gazette

F RO O T P ME TO N N O O ST LL BA

SE M U 4P O O H T N 1 PE AY O D N SU

Video,floor plans, photos at

www.4732n25thst.com

Arlington

$1,200,000

4732 25th Street, N, Arlington, VA 22207

Contact Julia or Tommy

Arlington

$899,999

900 N Stafford Street # 2628, Arlington, VA 22203

Rarely available 2 level penthouse at the Altavista Condominium. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, updated kitchen and baths, high ceilings, terrace. Views from the Washington Cathedral to the Masonic Temple. 2 parking spaces, extra storage, exercise room, party room, 24 hour front desk.

www.1201Garfield213.com

Arlington

G IN M CO

417,500

4501 28th Rd S #6-3 Arlington VA 22206 Fantastic townhome-style condo w/ renovated kitchen & bath, fp & more! Low condo fee, secs to Shirlington, near Bikeshare, commuter routes & public transportation. www.seetheproperty.com/139046

1201 Garfield Street # 213, Arlington, VA 22201

Contact Julia or Tommy

T AC TRS N Y CO A R 4D E D IN

N O SO N

Adjacent to Washington Golf Course

Arlington

$TBD

Arlington, VA 22207

FALLS CHURCH

$589,900

SLEEPY HOLLOW MANOR

New home on the Golf Course at Washington Golf. Approximate 7000 square feet on 3 finished levels. Beautiful detail throughout. 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths. Open concept floor plan. Media room, wine room, exercise room, screen porch. Amazing views of Washington Golf. Owner/agent.

Gorgeous 5br/2ba rambler features finished attic and lower level, wood burning fp, beautiful landscaping w/ large deck. Convenient to commuter routes, DC & EFC metro.

Contact Chrissy or Julia

Contact Lisa & Anne Gamber

Contact Lisa or Chrissy.

Y R LE IE G LT N O LA O H SC

$735,000

Corner loft unit with high ceilings. Open concept floor plan. 2 master suites and powder room. Hardwood floors, storage located next door to unit. Garage parking, community pool and party room.

Contact Julia or Tommy

E AL

Heatherlea/Shirlington

Video,floor plans, photos at

www.900NStaffordSt.com

High ceilings on each floor. 4 bedrooms, each with private bathroom. Au-pair/In-Law suite with private entrance in basement. 1 car garage. Just a few blocks to shopping and restaurants.

N DO N O E R AR ET L M C

Video,floor plans, photos at

www.1001eatondr.com

McLean

$1,495,000

1001 Eaton Drive, McLean, VA 22102

Almost 7000 square feet on 3 finished levels. High ceilings, hardwood floors, 6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 fireplaces, 3 car garage. .83 acre lot. Located close to Tysons Corner.

Contact Julia or Tommy

FALLS CHURCH

$575,000

6303 Crooked Oak Lane, Falls Church, VA 22042

Stunning 3 bed/2 full bath/2 .5 bath townhouse in sought after Seven Oaks II! Updated and open gourmet kitchen with a spacious breakfast room. Beautiful deck and shaded patio with a fountain and lovely landscaping. Perfect for entertaining! New carpet, water heater, freshly painted, new faucets, light fixtures and mirrors and recessed lighting. Well maintained by one owner.

Contact Dixie

FALLS CHURCH CITY

Historic Property

$975,000

Historic Farmhouse in the heart of Falls Church City! Built in 1878,with original pine floors! 4 bed/2.5 bath with lots of charm. Renovated master bath and walk in closet in master suite. Can walk to farmer’s market, community center and local library! Boasts 10 ft ceilings and large rooms, a wrap-around front porch and detached 2 car garage!

Contact Dixie

IO CT U ON R O ST S N G COMIN EW CO

R T DE AC N TR UN CO

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Sun Gazette

R T DE AC N TR UN CO

Under Contract in 5 days

FALLS CHURCH CITY

$1,325,000

Stunning 5br/4.5ba Craftsmans style home. Over 4500sf of living space includes — gourmet kitchen w pantry, breakfast nook; family room w fp; garage and more! OLREA

Lee St Falls Church, VA 22046

Contact Chrissy & Lisa

Julia Avent, Broker/Owner CRS, GRI, ABR

703.850.6606 julia@juliaavent.com Tommy Avent 703.346.3373 tommy@juliaavent.com

6555 Sand Wedge CT Alexandria, VA

11605 Choir LN Fairfax Station, VA

Renovated 3 bed/3.5 bath townhouse in sought after Pinecrest Community!

3 bed/3.5 bath all brick home on 5 acres!

Contact Dixie

Chrissy O’Donnell 703.626.8374 chrissy@chrissyandlisa.com

Dixie Rapuano 703.801.2145 dixiemyrealtor@cox.net

Lisa DuBois 703.350.9595 lisa@chrissyandlisa.com

4784 Lee Highway, Arlington, VA 22207 | 703-677-8730 | www.byinvitationrealty.com

Low Interest Rates Help U.S. Market

Mortgage rates would need to rise to 10.6 percent – a level they have not been at for 25 years – in order for renting a home to become cheaper than buying nationally, according to a new survey conducted for the Trulia online real estate site. However, some markets might tip in favor of renting this year if prices continue to outpace rents, and if mortgage rates rise. Given current home prices and rents, Honolulu would tip if mortgage rates rose to 5 percent, followed by San Jose (5.4 percent) and San Francisco (5.8 percent). Rounding out the top five areas where renting could become cheaper than buying: Orange County, Calif. (if rates rose to 6.8 percent) and the New York metro area (7.2 percent). On the flip side of the coin, consider the case of Detroit, where interest rates would have to rise to 33.8 percent to make renting a cheaper alternative than buying. Under current economic conditions, buying a home in Detroit is 66 percent cheaper than renting, according to the 2014 survey. Also in the top five in that category: Gary, Ind.; Birmingham, Ala.; Toledo, Ohio; and Kansas City. Looking at homes for sale and for rent on Trulia between December 2013 and January 2014, this study compares the average cost of renting and owning for all homes on the market within a metro, factoring in all cost components including transaction costs, taxes, and opportunity costs. “Buying remains cheaper than renting across the country even after 2013’s big price rebound,” said Jed Kolko, Trulia’s chief economist. “Mortgage rates are still near historic lows, despite rising a point in the past year, and would be the envy of time travelers from the 1980s, 1990s or 2000s. Even in markets like San Francisco, where home prices are high relative to paychecks, buying costs less than renting for people who stay seven years and itemize their deductions.” Trulia’s rent vs. buy calculation assumes a 4.5 percent 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with 20 percent down, itemizing tax deductions at the 25 percent bracket, seven years in the home, and conservative annual home-price appreciation assumptions ranging from 1.7 percent to 3.1 percent, depending on the metro. Buyers during the housing bubble made big bets that home prices would continue to rise forever – and lost. With asking prices up 11.4 percent year-overyear nationally in January 2014, today’s buyers could fall into that same trap. So to help people consider the worstcase scenario, Trulia calculated the cost of renting vs. buying a home with the assumption that prices will appreciate or depreciate as they did during each Continued on Page 22

Construction of New Homes Is Lagging U.S. Demand New home construction activity is currently insufficient in most of the U.S., and some states could face persistent housing shortages and affordability issues unless housing starts increase to match up with local job creation, according to new analysis by the National Association of Realtors®. The labor market, which is a key to overall economic health, has recovered all of the eight million jobs lost since the recession. NAR measured whether new home construction has kept up with job creation to determine the impact of construction on housing supply. The findings reveal that new home construction is underperforming in 32 states and the District of Columbia. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, says there’s a strong relationship between new jobs and an increase in demand for housing. “Historically, there’s one new home construction for every one-and-a-half

new jobs,” he said. “Our analysis found that a majority of states are constructing too few homes in relation to local job market conditions. This lack of construction has hamstrung supply and slowed home sales.” NAR analyzed jobs created in every state and the District of Columbia over a three-year period ending in the first quarter of 2014 relative to new singlefamily housing starts over the same period. Indicating lagging new home construction, 33 states (including the District of Columbia) have a ratio greater than 1.5 – the long-term average. The disparity was the greatest in Florida, Utah, California, Montana and Indiana, where job creation has been particularly strong. Yun cautions that these states could face persistent housing shortages and affordability issues unless housing starts increase to match local job gains. “A persistent lag in new home con-

struction will lead to faster home price growth, which will negatively impact housing affordability,” said Yun. Additionally, Realtors’ home-pricegrowth expectations in the first quarter of 2014 was generally strongest in states facing housing shortage conditions. Lack of inventory has pushed prices up and put pressure on affordability – especially for first-time home buyers. “Realtors have an intuitive sense of how fast prices are likely to rise from onthe-field observations,” said Yun. “Their price outlook largely shows gains to be the strongest in states with slow home construction in relation to job growth.” On the contrary, home price growth looks to be manageable in states with strong job gains and near commensurate increases in new home construction. Housing starts are seen as more than adequate to local job growth in Mississippi, Arkansas, Connecticut, Alabama and Vermont.

Inventory of homes sale and new construction drives supply. Although the number of existing-homes for sale increased in April, it remains historically-low, averaging six months or less for 20 consecutive months. Looking ahead, Yun says home builders will have to produce amidst the current challenges facing the building market. Limited access to credit for smaller builders, rising construction costs, concerns about the re-emergence of entrylevel consumers to the market in the face of student debt and a tight credit box, and the general decline in affordability and purchase power over the last year is causing hesitation among builders. “It’s critical to increase housing starts in these states facing shortage conditions or else prospective buyers may struggle with options and affordability if income growth cannot compensate for rising home prices,” said Yun.

Among the 36 million people 1 year and over who moved between 2012 and 2013, 5 percent said the most important reason for moving was to be closer to work or for an easier commute, while another 8 percent cited the desire for cheaper housing, according to a report released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The report, “Reason for Moving: 2012 to 2013,” presents an in-depth look at 19 reasons why people changed residences during the previous year and is the Census Bureau’s first on this topic since 2001. The Current Population Survey began asking a comparable version of this question in 1999. The current report compares how these reasons have changed over time. In 1999, 3 percent moved to be closer to work or for an easier commute and 6 percent wanted cheaper housing while 21 percent of respondents “wanted [a] new or better home/apartment.” This reason declined to 15 percent in 2013 and was not statistically different from the “other family” reason. “We asked people to select the reason that contributed most to their decision to move. Picking one reason can be difficult as moves are often motivated by many different, and oftentimes competing, factors,” said the report’s author, David Ihrke, a demographer in the Census Bureau’s Journey to Work and Migration Statistics Branch. “For instance, if one’s primary reason for moving is to be closer to work or having an easier commute, they may have to sacrifice other preferences,” Ihrke said. “This could include forgoing cheaper housing options or settling for a different neighborhood. If they mainly want cheaper housing, they may have to deal with a longer commute.” In addition to presenting the specific reasons for moving, the report combines these reasons into four collapsed categories: housing-related (48 percent); family-related, such as a change in marital status or establishing one’s own household (30 percent); job-related (19

percent); and other (2 percent). For people who moved from one county to another, moving because of a job-related reason rose with the distance of the move: 23 percent of moves less than 50 miles and 48 percent of those 500 miles or more. Moving for housing-related reasons showed change in the opposite direction, comprising 42 percent of shorter-

distance moves and 18 percent of longer-distance ones. Other highlights: • Men were more likely than women to move for job-related reasons. • Better-educated people were more likely to move for job-related reasons than those with lower levels of education. • Married respondents were the least

likely to move for family-related reasons. • Moves within the same county were typically for housing-related reasons, while intercounty moves and moves from abroad were more for job-related reasons. • Several individual reasons, such as “change of climate,” “health reasons” and “natural disaster,” were cited.

Many Moves Precipitated by Desire for Shorter Commutes

Welcoming our newest

Agents to

uck & BAssociates Are you a real estate agent in the Arlington area looking for a personal, rapidly growing real estate agency to join? Look no further and come be a part of the Buck & Associates family today! 2519 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

Francesca Keith

703-528-2288 www.buckrealtors.com

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Sam Wardle

Sun Gazette

Gorgeous Custom Colonial in Meadow Lake

An Exceptional Craftsman-Inspired Showplace Sits Amid Elegant Surroundings

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Featured Property

Sun Gazette

As summer makes its way into our local area, close your eyes and imagine the majesty of the Atlantic coast of Maine this time of year. Comfortable temperatures, low humidity, lovely breezes . . . and your neighbor, former President George H.W. Bush, parachuting from the sky every five years like clockwork. We can’t do much to change the D.C. weather, but this week’s featured property provides an ambiance that makes us think of those classic ocean-front Maine estates. Vigorous curb appeal and creative elegance are their calling cards. This week’s featured property, set in the heart of Oakton, is situated regally in the sought-after Meadow Lake community, providing security and serenity among rolling hills and wooded groves. It is a superior community, where many of the area’s top builders have come to construct their most heralded designs. A four-level property with grand formal rooms, this Craftsman-inspired abode features fine appointments and the ability to be welcoming both to daily

living and entertaining in style. There are surprises around every corner, and the location provides you with sought-after “shortcuts” to Reston, Vienna, Fair Oaks, Dulles and major commuting routes. The property currently is on the market, listed at $1,950,000 by Lilian Jorgenson of Long & Foster Real Estate. After a welcome on the portico, we are ushered inside to explore the main level, stopping at the exceptional foyer, which provides a visual line-of-site to the twostory rotunda; the exceptional, soaring Oakton Room; and the deck overlooking the verdant rear yard. Both the living room and dining room (the latter with a beamed ceiling) are large and charming, and off the living room is a conservatory with a deep tray ceiling and windows on three sides. The kitchen area is a standout, designed for serious chefs and featuring a morning-dining area and, nearby, the screened porch with more lovely vistas. A home library with built-in shelving is yet another highlight. Up the glorious, curved staircase we

go to the second level, where the master retreat is yet another showplace stop on our tour. It features a large bedroom area, master sitting room with fireplace, sumptuous bath and copious closet space. Three additional bedrooms suites can be found on this level, and one story up, you will find a top-level suite, perfect for multiple uses, and from there access to the attic. The lower level is home to a large recreation room, exercise area (which also would work as the home’s sixth bedroom), game room and space for future media room and exercise room. There also is a craft area, and plenty of storage. Visually appealing inside and out, this home is testament to creative design and occupies a prime location in a sought-af-

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ter neighborhood. Articles are prepared by the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients. For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department at (703) 738-2520.

Facts for buyers

Address: 11421 Meadow Lake Court, Oakton (22124). Listed at: $1,950,000 by Lilian Jorgenson, Long & Foster Real Estate (703) 790-1990. Schools: Flint Hill Elementary, Thoreau Middle, James Madison High School.

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LONG & FOSTER RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

•

MORTGAGE

•

TITLE

INSURANCE

•

The Choice is Obvious. Long & Foster McLean Congratulates Long & Foster

23% #1 in McLean Top Producers – for MAY 2014 14%

6% Weichert Realtors

KW - Mc Lean / 22101

McEnearney Associates

Washington Fine Properties

LONG & FOSTER No one has more expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®.

Tracy Dillard 703-861-5548 TOP TEAM

The Wydler Team 703-873-5020

Lilian Jorgenson 703-407-0766 TOP AGENT

Lisa Korade 202-701-9494

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

MORTGAGE

•

TITLE

The Choice is Obvious.

John Jorgenson 703-352-3000

George Koutsoukos 703-999-8205 ARLINGTON

•

The Lewis Team 703-760-7653

Rarely available All Brick 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths End Unit Townhouse in secluded enclave with distinctive features & elegant details just minutes from DC, Pentagon & Airport. Renovation has just been completed! Spacious rooms, perfect for formal entertaining or casual family living. Hardwood floors, Crown molding, 2 fireplaces, built ins, fully finished basement, walk out to brick patio, 2 assigned parking spaces. AR8373837.

Long & Foster

EN2-4 OP/29 6

14%

ARLINGTON COMMUTERS DREAM $748,000 Large five bedroom, three and one-half bath, Colonial on a .30 of an acre. This 3150 sq. ft. home features an updated Kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors and screened-in porch. Master suite with large walk-in closet and custom shelving. Easy access to the W&OD Trail.

Custom 3-story home with loftlike feel in the heart of Arlington. Large stone front porch, spacious 2-story foyer, extra large BRs w/ own full BAs. Three-car garage, walk-out basement w/ kitchen & full BA & 2 BRs. HW flrs thru main level and modern kitchen w/ phenomenal storage, SubZero & Viking appliances.

KW - Mc Lean / 22101

McEnearney Associates

Washington Fine Properties

Mary Bowen & Charlotte Gregory No one has more expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®. 703-887-8618 & 561-702-5302

Hala Adra 703-980-4041

INSURANCE

•

Debbie Larson 703-966-9474

CUSTOM HOME IN NORTH ARLINGTON

Weichert Realtors

www.HalaAdra.com

The Wright Team 703-582-1640

ARLINGTON #1 in McLean $1,999,400

23%SUNM

$625,000

JUST LISTED

Shirley Buford 571-238-7800

www.TracyDillard.com

Tracy Dillard 703-861-5548

LONG & FO LONG & FOSTER LONG & FOSTER LONG & FOSTER G & FOSTER N. ARLINGTON $1,499,000 FABULOUS NEW HOME IN COUNTRY CLUB MANOR

ALEXANDRIA GORGEOUS $615,000 TOWNHOME IN CAMERON STATION

N. ARLINGTON $1,499,000 NEW HOME WALK TO EFC METRO

Beautifully updated popular Franklin model with custom woodwork throughout including walls, baseboards, and moldings. Solid wood doors with upgraded hardware. Gourmet kitchen has custom pantry and upgraded cabinets with leaded glass doors. Luxurious master suite with porcelain tile, handcrafted vanity, frameless glass shower and walk-in closet. Large rec room opens to responsible for its accuracy. Does not reflect attractive patio.

Large sunny rooms with 10’ ceilings on main level and 9’ceilings on upper level. Stunning gourmet kitchen w/marble countertops & stainless steel appliances. Master suite includes coffered ceiling, his & her walk-in closets & luxurious bath (marble floor, claw foot tub, marble countertop, & frameless shower.) Finished on glass data supplied by MRISlower and level. its member Association(s)

Potomac Custom Builders presents a beautiful Arts & Crafts style home with hardiplank & stone. Inviting front porch leads to three beautifully finished levels with top-of-the-line finishes throughout. Gorgeous white gourmet kitchen. First floor library with built-ins. Luxurious master suite w/tray ceiling. Fully finished lower marketplace. Januarylevel. 1, 2011 – December 31, 2011.

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

•

MOR

Source: Information based of REALTORS, who are not all activity in the Information contained in this report is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, should be independently verified, and does not constitute an opinion of MRIS or Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. ©2012 All rights reserved. www.lewisteam.com

www.lewisteam.com

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE The Lewis Team

The Lewis Team McLean Offices 703-760-7653

•

ARLINGTON $850,000 BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED AND EXPANDED!

23% #1 in McLean The Choice is Obvious. ® Nothing left to do but to move in and enjoy! Just 1 mi. to EFC Metro. Lightfilled, open floorplan! Updated kitchen, Baths, • roof, hw flrs., windows & so much more! Yorktown HS pyramid. 4 BR/2.5BA.

The Choice is Obvious. Nancy Broyhill 703-615-0503

MORTGAGE 23% 22%

•

• INSURANCE TITLE #1 in McLean

Long & Foster

The Choice is Obvious. 14% 23% #1 in McLean 6% 6% hoice is Obvious. 14%

Long & Foster

McLean RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ® MORTGAGE23%• TITLE#1 in INSURANCE 14% RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE • MORTGAGE • TITLE • INSURANCE 6% 6% 5%

#1 in McLean

Nancy Broyhill 703-615-0503 Weichert Realtors

KW - Mc Lean / 22101

14%

Weichert Realtors

KW - Mc Lean / 22101

Weichert Realtors

McEnearney Associates

Washington Fine Properties

No one has No onemore has more expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®. expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®.

6% ® 6% expertise No one has more Long & Foster . Office 5% selling homes Offices Longthan & McLean Foster McLean 22101

Associates

KW - Mc Lean / 22101

McEnearney Associates

Washington Fine Properties

No one has more expertise selling homes than Long & Foster®. KW - Mc Lean /

McEnearney

Properties

703-790-1990 • 1355 Beverly Rd, Suite 109,• McLean, VA 22101 703-873-3500 • 6862 Elm Street | 703-790-1990 1311A Dolley Madison Blvd.

Weichert Realtors

Washington Fine

•

INSUR

McEnearney Associates

Washington Fine Properties

No one has more expertise selling homes than Long & Fost

Source: Information based on data supplied by MRIS and its member Association(s) of REALTORS, who are not responsible for its accuracy. Does not reflect all activity in the marketplace. January 1, 2011 – December 31, 2011. contained in this report is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, should be independently verified, and does Information contained in this report is deemed reliableWeichert but not guaranteed, should be independently verified, andInformation does not constitute an opinion of MRIS or Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. ©2012 All rights reserved. Realtors KW - Mc Lean / McEnearney Washington Fine not constitute an opinion of MRIS or Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. ©2012 All rights reserved.

14%

TITLE

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

From the rich architectural details to the beautifully landscaped lot, prepare to be enchanted by this lovely custom home! Extensively • updated. Spacious & flowing floor plan. 5 BR, 3 full BA. Garage. Circular driveway.

•

703-873-3500 • 6862 Elm Street | 703-790-1990 • 1311A Dolley Madison Blvd. ®

ARLINGTON $1,150,000 A UNIQUE GEM 5 MINUTES TO DC!

ERCIAL REAL ESTATE

MORTGAGE

The Choice is Obvious

703-760-7653

Long & Foster

The Lewis Team 703-760-7653

Sun Gazette

1st Quarter Was Weak, But Fundamentals Are Positive Looking Toward Future of Home Sales Across Country Housing activity was sub-par in the first quarter of this year, dampened in part by severe weather patterns, but an uptrend is expected with healthy underlying demand over the balance of the year and through 2015, according to presentations at a residential real estate forum here during the Realtor Party Convention & Trade Expo. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, said the U.S. population has been growing steadily, but job creation has not. “When you look at the jobs-to-population ratio, the current period is weaker than it was from the late 1990s through 2007,” he said. “This explains why Main Street America does not fully feel the recovery.” Yun said that growth in the Gross Domestic Product slowed in the first quarter, and possibly contracted. “There are no fresh signs of recession, and the second quarter could grow about 3 percent,” he added. Yun said the home sales-to-population ratio also has been below normal since 2008. Despite a large pent-up demand from years of below-normal home sales, inventory constraints and tight credit conditions continue to impede the market, in combination with strongly rising home prices and higher mortgage interest rates. Although existing-home sales rose

more than 9 percent to nearly 5.1 million in 2013, sales activity retrenched during the past six months. Even with gradual improvement moving forward, they are projected to decline about 3 percent for the year to just over 4.9 million, but should trend up to more than 5.2 million in 2015. Because of tight inventories and rising sales last year, the median existinghome price rose 11.5 percent to just over $197,000. Home price growth is likely to moderate from more new home construction, with the median price increasing about 6 percent in 2014 to $209,000 and reaching nearly $219,000 next year as market conditions begin to balance. An upside of rising prices is a recovery in home equity. “Based on our forecast for this year, the median home equity gain over three years is expected to be $40,000,” Yun noted. “A gap between new and existing-home prices from rising construction costs shows that prices are well supported by fundamentals in most of the country.” He expects the Federal Reserve to end tapering of monetary policy by the end of the year and to hike the Fed funds rates in the first quarter of 2015. Although the pattern is uneven month-to-month, mortgage interest rates are forecast to gradually rise, with

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

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Sun Gazette

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the 30-year fixed rate averaging 4.7 percent this year and 5.5 percent in 2015. “Inevitably, rising mortgage interest rates will hurt housing affordability,” Yun said. Housing starts have stayed below 1 million a year for the past six years, but need to reach the long-term average of 1.5 million to balance the market. “Because of the prolonged slowdown in construction, we now need 1.7 million housing starts per year to catch up,” Yun said. While improving, housing construction is seen at nearly 1.1 million this year and approximately 1.4 million in 2015. The sluggish recovery in housing starts is impacted by construction costs rising faster than inflation, labor shortages in the building trades, and the difficulty for small local home builders to obtain construction loans. “Onerous financial regulations are preventing small banks from originating construction loans,” Yun said. Job growth, which is the key to overall economic health, has essentially recovered all of the eight million jobs lost since the great recession. Employment is expected to improve, with job growth rising 1.6 percent in 2014 and 1.9 percent next year, after growing 1.7 percent in 2013; consumer confidence should gradually rise. The gross domestic product should grow 2.2 percent this year and about 2.9 percent in 2015; GDP grew 1.9 percent in 2013. Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, was a tame 1.4 percent in 2013 but is projected to rise to 2.5 percent this year and 3.5 percent in 2015. Eric Belsky, managing director of the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, agreed we’re unlikely to see a back-up in GDP. “Growth in the stock market and the recovery in housing along with pent-up demand are major factors driving the economy,” he said. “There are three federal surveys that measure household growth and that are inconsistent, but we had real growth in 2012 that fell back last year,” Belsky said. “Even the survey with the strongest household growth shows we’re a million below where we should be, but we’re probably two million below. We could see a notable uptick in household formation later this year.” Belsky noted there are nearly three million more young adults who lived with their parents in 2012 than in 2007, and the median incomes for all young adults have declined since the great recession. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, student loan default rates have soared from just over 6 percent in 2003 to nearly 12 percent last year. Student debt is hurting credit scores and hindering the ability of some young adults to qualify for a mortgage; it could be a problem for as many as one in 10 renters who are in their 20s. The Joint Center for Housing Studies projects household growth to rival

or top the annual average pace from 1995 to 2000, and projects 76 percent of the growth over the next decade will be from minority households. The greatest increase is expected to be among households age 65 and older. According to Fannie Mae, roughly nine out of 10 people under the age of 45 expect to buy a home in the future, but Belsky said mortgage underwriting standards are dramatically tighter, which disproportionately impacts minorities and those with lower incomes. Dennis McGill, director of research for Zelman & Associates in New York, also focused on trends in housing demand. “Our analysis of Census Data shows an average of only 720,000 housing starts annually from 2010 through 2013, but our projections over the next five years exceed an average of 1.9 million,” he said. “We won’t ramp up to that level right away, but if you average housing starts for the entire period from 2010 to 2019, it would be about 1.44 million,” McGill said. “There is a strong tailwind to housing starts. We’re starting to see capital come back to single family construction, which is very favorable.” McGill notes trends in residential electric consumption mirror the growth in households, and also young adult employment, which is driving the growth. The percentage of 24 to 34 year old married couples has risen since the last recession, but they are delaying a transition to home ownership. Zelman believes that the majority of this recent change has been due to recessionary impacts that should start to unwind. McGill said their analysis shows the existing-home inventory relative to the number of households in the first quarter of this year is 30 percent lower than the average of the past two decades. In addition, total sales closings in 2013 were 20 percent lower than the 25year average. “If we don’t bring capacity back to the market, home prices will continue to rise strongly,” he said. A Zelman consumer survey shows most young adults believe a lack of savings for a down payment is their biggest hurdle to obtaining a mortgage, but most of them think they need a much larger down payment than is actually required. For example, 25 percent believe they need a down payment of 16 to 20 percent, and another 15 percent believe they need a down payment of more than 20 percent. However, the actual requirement for an FHA loan is 3.5 percent. Even with the well-known debt issues, nearly one-quarter of people under the age of 35 are debt free, which is better than the historic average. In addition, the Zelman survey shows that contrary to fears, there is no correlation between student loan debt and household formation. “A lot of this is a recessionary impact that we think is overlooked,” McGill said.

Enjoy an Architectural Gem in Lee Heights

Original 1948 Property Has Been Substantially Expanded Throughout the Years Featured Property

with dormered sitting area, a wonderful spot to curl up and enjoy a good book. Pull-down stairs provide access to the attic space. The Great Room is the highlight of the walk-out lower level, and with more than 500 square feet of space, it provides exceptional opportunities. Window surrounds, a granite bar and a kitchenette make this a truly versatile space for informal entertaining and the pleasures of daily living. The lower level also is home to a media room with built-in bookcases and a wood-burning fireplace with brick hearth, as well as the home’s fourth bedroom, perfect as a guest room or in-law suite, affording exceptional privacy and a separate entrance.

There also is a pleasant office that opens out to the deck. Having explored the interior, we head to take a closer inspection of the 15,544square-foot domain that surrounds it. The exterior is designed to provide a calm, measured respective from day-today stress, whether you’re enjoying the raised deck, the flagstone patio or the treasured garden, which features azaleas, boxwoods, shade gardens and private walking paths. But that’s just the start, as the home provides easy access to both Donaldson Run and Potomac Overlook parks, and from there to the Potomac River. Traveling to points far and wide is a breeze, no matter which direction you are headed; how many other locations

can attest to “uncomplicated and scenic commuting”? This one can. The location is convenient to the Lee Heights Shops and the amenities of the urban-village corridor. Constructed in 1948, the property has kept up with the times and evolved into a showplace of creativity and elegance. Articles are prepared by the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients. For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department at (703) 738-2520.

Facts for buyers Address: 2361 North Vernon Street, Arlington (22207). Listed at: $1,375,000 by David Lloyd, Weichert, Realtors (703) 593-3204. Schools: Taylor Elementary, Williamsburg Middle, Yorktown High School.

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J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Our featured property began life in the Baby Boom generation immediately following World War II. In the intervening years, this architectural gem has been seamlessly expanded for modern living to its current 5,088 base square feet while retaining both its classic ambiance and its location in the midst of the sought-after Lee Heights community. Set on a lot of more than one-third acre, the impressive floor plan features wonderful spaces for entertaining, as multiple indoor and outdoor living areas showcase the changing seasons overlooking the landscaped rear yard in its bucolic setting. The property currently is on the market, listed at $1,375,000 by David Lloyd of Weichert, Realtors. The curb appeal is impressive, with lovely plantings shading the front. And after a welcoming in the classic foyer with its beautiful hardwoods, period dentil moulding and tasteful lighting, we begin our exploration. The formal living room is large enough to welcome a holiday gathering while retaining intimacy for daily living. Multiple 16-pane windows offer light and bright exposures and views of the front garden and patio, while there is a slate-surround, wood-burning fireplace and charming corner cabinet. French doors open to the sun room and an architectural-cutout window showcases the breakfast room. The dining room, which is open to the foyer and the kitchen, has some of those classic hardwoods, as well as a contemporary light fixture and nice china closet. Remodeled for the serious chefs among us, the kitchen features crisp white cabinetry with brushed-nickel hardware, along with back-granite countertops, high-quality stainless appliances and a breakfast bar. The nearby breakfast room is a perfect spot to start or end a day of work or play. One of the most creative and regal additions to the home has been the sunroom, accessed via French doors from the living room, where glass-paned doors open to the terrace/deck area and window surrounds effectively bring nature’s bounty indoors. A main level master retreat provides a serene and tranquil space with “treehouse views” to unwind, with access to the terrace. On the upper level, there are two additional bedrooms that share a full bath. There also is a spacious upper landing

Sun Gazette

Survey Says: Americans (Mostly) Like Their Neighbors Two thirds of Americans say they like their neighbors, even though only 53 percent actually know their neighbors’ names, according to a recent survey by the Trulia online real estate site. Residents living in suburban areas are more inclined to like their neighbors and know their names than people who live in more urban areas; homeowners, too, are much more likely than renters to like their neighbors (74 percent vs. 58 percent) and know their names (61 percent vs. 39 percent). Looking across regions, Midwesterners are the most likely to know their neighbors’ names: 60 percent do, compared with 51 percent in the Northeast and the South, and 49 percent in the West. Some neighbors, even the friendly

ones, can be judgmental, passive-aggressive, or nosy. One fifth of Americans say they judge their neighbors on the appearance or condition of their home and property, with suburbanites a bit more likely to judge their neighbors than urban dwellers. 31 percent would actively ignore a neighbor if they were in a disagreement with them, and 30 percent would complain to their landlord, homeowners’ association, the police or a local authority. “Two thirds of Americans generally like their neighbors, but that doesn’t mean unconditional love. There are strings attached,” said Jed Kolko, Trulia’s chief economist. “That nice family next door might be judging you – or going behind your back.” Curiosity strikes more than a quarter

of residents: when a neighbor’s home goes up for sale, 27 percent of adults say they check out the home on an online real estate site, and 11 percent attend the open house. Even though most Americans say they like their neighbors, even more are picky about them, with 75 percent preferring that their neighbors have particular characteristics. Speaking the same language fell second on the list of important neighbor traits among Americans (33 percent), above having the same race/ethnicity (10 percent), age (nine percent), family structure (16 percent), and political views (four percent). But the most important neighbor attribute was home ownership: 35 percent of respondents said it was important

that their neighbors are homeowners, and this percentage increased among Americans who are homeowners themselves (51 percent). More urban dwellers than suburban residents agree sharing similar habits and behaviors – such as keeping the same hours and being similarly involved with the neighborhood – is important. “Because of the housing crash and foreclosure crisis, millions of formerly owner-occupied single-family homes became rentals,” Kolko said. “That’s bad news for the 51 percent of homeowners who say it’s important to them to have home-owning neighbors, but it beats living next door to a foreclosed, vacant house.” For further information and data, see the Web site at http://info.trulia.com.

Realtors from across the country gathered in May to discuss the effects of traffic and commuting on home-buying, and the general consensus is that traffic congestion is here to stay and there isn’t anything to be done about it. In a panel organized by the Richard J. Rosenthal Center for Real Estate Studies at Realtor University during the Realtor Party Convention & Trade Expo, NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun joined other economists to discuss traffic and commuting and their impact on the decision to buy a home. “There is no way to solve traf-

fic congestion,” said Anthony Downs, economist from The Brookings Institution. “There is no city in the world rich enough to build an adequate amount of roads to accommodate all of the workers and students who want to be on the road at the same time. Congestion is simply an inexorable part of the way cities grow.” And cities keep growing. Companies looking for skilled workers and other firms to interact with and do business together are staying in the larger cities where these resources are readily available.

“Skilled workers move where they can find work, creating more traffic and driving up housing prices,” Yun said. “It creates a positive feedback loop; the more skilled workers employed in an area, the more others want to move there.” This means that the future of real estate development could be toward more walkable communities, with amenities such as shopping, transit and entertainment within walking distance, eliminating the need to drive. Downs disagrees. “There are 250 million cars in the

U.S. and the auto industry is booming. Also, housing prices are highest in the biggest, most walkable cities. Consumers won’t move to the city for the convenience of transit or walkability if they simply can’t afford to live there.” This means that many of today’s consumers are focused on cutting commuting costs rather than attempting to eliminate them. “Seventy-three percent of recent home buyers said that commuting costs were an important factor when deciding whether or not to purchase a home,” said NAR economist Jessica Lautz.

Traffic, Commuting Has Impact on the Home-Buying Process

Homes For sale Y DA N SU M N -4 P E 2 OP

destination: home

Few things are more precious than home. That’s why before we look, I listen. J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

OPEN SUNDAY 1-3

Sun Gazette

Clarendon | The Hartford (1200 N. Hartford St. #306)

Maywood (2346 N Fillmore St)

Luxurious, bright 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in the heart of Clarendon! Only a block from Metro and all the shops & restaurants the Clarendon area offers… Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Apple Store. This gorgeous unit offers hardwoods throughout the unit; a gourmet kitchen with gas cooking and a breakfast bar; wine storage; a long balcony for morning coffee or evening glass of wine; a master suite and bath with ample closets and soaking tub; and 2 garage parking spaces. $617,500

Brand NEW construction by Griffin Head Renovation & Design. Just putting on the finishing touches! This gorgeous 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home provides over 4,000 square feet on 4-finished levels. Beautifully appointed main level offers 9-foot ceilings with a spacious kitchen (42-inch Shaker-style cabinets, marble counters & large island) opening to great room. Lovely, light-filled spaces for living & entertaining. $1,389,000

ruthboyerodea@gmail.com www.ruthboyerodea.com

703.338.2277 American Realty Group 2420 Wilson Blvd #101, Arlington VA 22201 703.276.1200

A Sun-Filled Craftsman Showplace Sparkles

Spacious Rooms and High Ceilings Add to Ambiance of McLean Property Featured Property

To our left is the formal dining room, a grand spot for entertaining in style and is connected by a butler’s pantry to the exceptional kitchen area. In the kitchen, all is close at hand, and from the breakfast area, you have lovely views and easy access to the deck area. The family room is a charmer, with more wonderful views, a tray ceiling and lovely fireplace. A large library and a main-level bedroom round out our tour here, and we head upstairs to enjoy the second level. The master retreat is a true showplace, with a creative and large bedroom area with tray ceiling, as well as access to a private slate balcony overlooking the rear yard. The master bath is a study in sumptuousness, and there is plentiful walk-incloset space. Three additional bedrooms are found on this level, along with a separate guest suite that sits atop the large garage. The

second level also is home to laundry facilities, and from here, you have access to the loft area. Amenities continue on the lower level, where the large, walk-out recreation area features a fireplace. There also is a separate game room with wet bar, along with a media room. The home’s sixth bedroom, with bath and walk-in closet, can be found here, as well. With a winning personality and a location that is close to everything, there is much to love about this new home that pays tribute to the past while showcasing modern design styles.

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Gazette’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients. For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Sun Gazette’s real estate advertising department at (703) 738-2520.

Facts for buyers Address: 1813 Melbourne Drive, McLean (22101). Listed at: $1,795,000 by Tracy Dillard, Long & Foster Real Estate (703) 8615548. Schools: Kent Gardens Elementary, Longfellow Middle, McLean High School.

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J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Craftsman architecture has been the go-to design style in the local region for a number of years, and with good reason: It builds on a classic history but gives architects and builders the chance to customize their offerings for a new generation of home-buyers. Such is the case with our featured property, which is a very modern take on the Craftman design. It incorporates all the historic ambiance with innovative, contemporary flair. Featuring more than 8,100 square feet of living space, the home is set on a third of an acre in a close-in McLean neighborhood, putting you near everything – yet still set back in a world of ambiance and serenity. The property currently is on the market, listed at $1,795,000 by Tracy Dillard of Long & Foster Real Estate. Large formal rooms are perfect for entertaining, but the home retains a sense of style that makes it conducive to daily living, as well. And there are design surprises around every corner. Filled with natural sunlight, augmented by high ceilings, the home will wow the senses from the moment one is greeted on the covered porch and enters the home to be welcomed in the invigorating foyer. To our right is the formal living room, large but not overpowering, a versatile and welcoming space.

Sun Gazette

1,350,000

591,000

3930 N. Dumbarton St – Arlington • Beautiful Cape Cod Estate on 1.69 Acres • 9 Offers - Under Contract in 7 Days

6832 Montivideo Sq Ct – Falls Church • Bright, Spacious End Unit Townhome • 7 Offers - Under Contract in 5 Days

THE 3930 GROUP The home grown Arlington experts you can trust! • Over 25 years of experience inside the beltway • Innovative marketing strategies customized to each property • 24-hour personalized client services • Backing of a trusted Arlington owned and operated brokerage since 1976

Linda Wardle 703-598-7943

Sam Wardle 703-296-5255

Agents@3930group.com www.BuckRealtors.com

COMING SOON

Survey: ‘Green’ Construction Will Continue to See Growth Residential construction is a key engine behind economic growth in the United States. According to McGraw Hill Construction’s Dodge Construction Market Forecast, single and multifamily housing projects account for about 45 percent of the value of all construction projects started in the United States in 2014. With that market forecast to grow rapidly in coming years, the green activity and drivers in the market are critical. The new SmartMarket Report of the single and multifamily builder and remodeler community released by McGraw Hill Construction (http://www. construction.com/) contains this critical intelligence. The report, “Green Multifamily & Single Family Homes: Growth in a Recovering Market,” surveys builder and remodeler members of the National Association of Home Builders and reveals the evolution of green building for single family homes from boom to bust to recovery through comparisons with previous studies from 2006 to 2011, and includes new data on multifamily housing to provide a comprehensive review of the sector. According to the latest study: • 62 percent of firms building new single family homes report that they are doing more than 15 percent of their projects green. By 2018, 84 percent of them expect this level of green activity. • 54 percent of firms building new multifamily projects report that they are doing more than 15 percent of their projects green. There is also growth expected – with 79 percent reporting the same level of activity anticipated by 2018.

• In the single family market, the most striking shift is in those firms dedicated to green building (doing more than 90 percent of their projects green). That percentage is already at 19 percent, and by 2018, it is expected to double (to 38 percent). The study finds that builders and remodelers in both the single family and multifamily sectors report that the market is recognizing the value of green: 73 percent of single-family builders (up from 61 percent since the last report) and 68 percent of multifamily builders say consumers will pay more for green homes. “Greater consumer interest in green homes has contributed to the ongoing growth, leading us to anticipate that by 2016, the green single family housing market alone will represent approximately 26 percent to 33 percent of the market, translating to an $80 billion to $101 billion opportunity based on current forecasts. The findings also suggest that lenders and appraisers may be starting to recognize the value of green homes, making it a factor that could help encourage the market to grow if there is more widespread awareness across the U.S.,” said Harvey Bernstein, a vice president of McGraw Hill Construction. The study also examines the triggers for green building activity. “This new study demonstrates phenomenal growth in green building, with more builders engaging in sustainable building practices than ever before,” said NAHB chairman Kevin Kelly, a home builder and developer from Wilmington, Del. The SmartMarket Report also reveals a vigorous and growing renewables market in the residential sector.

Continued from Page 14

you can’t control or perfectly predict: what happens to home prices after you buy,” said Kolko said. “Sharp price appreciation could make home ownership essentially free, but price declines could mean that renting would have been the better deal in hindsight.” “The current home-price recovery could lull prospective buyers into thinking that future price gains are inevitable, but when doing the rent-versus-buy math, people should prepare for the worst, not just hope for the best,” Kolko said. For further information and data, see the Web site at http://info.trulia.com.

Low Interest Rates Helping Market

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

$1,315,000

Sun Gazette

5018 Yorktown Blvd Amazing space inside and out in this expanded contemporary home located in the heart of North Arlington’s suburban hub. A 3-story addition created a master suite with sitting room on the upper level, a very large family room/kitchen combination on the back of the main level, a 2-car garage, and a greatly expanded lower level. The lower level features a bedroom, bath, kitchen, and large sitting room, perfect for an au pair or in-law suite. The 14,573 SF level lot provides a shaded oasis with decks, patios and walkways. An elevator accesses all three levels of the home.

Susan Joy

Long & Foster Realtors NVAR Lifetime Top Producer 703-284-9215 (office) 703-201-6219 (cell)

Susan.joy@longandfoster.com • www.susanjoy@lnfre.com

local housing market’s worst seven-year period over the last 20 years. With this assumption, if the worst does happen, renting would become cheaper than buying in 37 of the 100 largest U.S. metros. For example, buying would become 79 percent more expensive than renting in San Jose if prices fell 2.8 percent annually. This is because even small differences in price appreciation can have a big effect on the future sales price of the home. “In many markets, the rent-versusbuy decision depends on the one factor

Size of New Homes Hits a Record Level Continued from Page 6

builders have to justify their costs,” said Margenau, and that leads to higher average square footage even at the lower end of the real estate spectrum. Other factors come into play, as well. “We are seeing many empty-nesters choosing to build homes larger than they raised their families in, because they can finally afford it with college paid for,

kids gone and often now at their peak earning years,” said Terry Belt of the Belt Team of Keller Williams. The new Census Bureau data looks at new-home construction in a host of ways: Price per square foot, lot size, number of stories, type of heating fuel, presence of air conditioning and the like. For information, see the Web site at www.census.gov.

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

FI N E P RO P E RTI E S

Sun Gazette

Weichert

Real Estate

Mortgages

Closing Services

Ann Romer CRS, GRI, ABR

(703)597-4289 RltrAnn@aol.com TheRomerTeam.com

CLAIRE DRISCOLL GRI, CRS Life Member NVAR Multi Million Dollar Club

703-447-3555

Claire@Clairedriscoll.com

1830 Columbia Pike #606 Arlington VA 22204

KIRTI PATEL

703-424-0323 www.homesbykirti.com

SOLD! UNDER CONTRACT IN 1 WEEK!!

Dolores Ferrer Associate Broker NVAR Multi-Million Dollar Club

Cell

703-623-9295

10414 Darby Street, Fairfax, VA 22030 4BR, 3BA Rambler with updated kitchen, granite countertops, renovated baths, near George Mason University & Fairfax City Hall, large back yard.

Fauquier county

$875,000

Spacious light-filled 5 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home on nearly 1/2 acre. Three fully finished levels with generous room sizes. Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances & corian countertops. Gleam- Barbara Ann ing hardwoods. Large Farmer private rear deck overABR, GRI looking lovely natural views. Great Location!! Excellent access to My Personalized major commuter routes and the new Silver Metro line. McLean HS Service is the Keystone pyramid. to Your Satisfaction

Call me for Additional Information 571-213-7500

BarbCleo@aol.com

SELLING YOUR LAND?

Listed for $459,900 FC8335674

A 2-story foyer & family room enhance this lovely home. 5 BR’s & 4.5 BA’s include a H*U*G*E extended master suite with reading nook, separate sitting room & 2 walk-in closets. The Lower level offers 9’ ceilings & a walkout. The incredible screened porch, 3-car side-load garage, and .91 acre wooded lot on quiet a cul-de-sac make this a great value!

VIENNA COLONIAL — 1518 Tuba Ct

SOLD !!!! MULTIPLE OFFERS!!! Sold for $288000!!! Best price in 10 years in The Lancaster Condominium! Please call at 703-424-0323 or email me at k.patel@weichert.com for a free at home consultation.

Insurance

VIENNA SILVER LINE METRO $1,274,900 The Romer Team

Lowes Island/Cascades $780,000 FIRST FLOOR MASTER BEDROOM SUITE Rarely available Cypress model in these Villa townhomes in Lowes Island next to Trump National Golf Course. Over 4400 square feet of living space in this 8 year old home with 5 Bedrooms and 4 ½ Baths, 9 and 10 foot ceilings, elegant appointments, backing to trees. Wonderful open kitchen with extensive cabinetry and granite counters flowing into family room with deck across the back. Simplify your life with this one of a kind home.

www.doloresferrer.com doloresferrer@mris.com

$459,000

12720 Kahns Road, Manassas, VA (.34 acres) - Just Listed 7000 Ordway Rd (5 lots, 12.33 acres) - For Sale 8612 Thomas J. Stockton Parkway, Alexandria, VA (1.7 acres) - For Sale 0 Mt Olive Road, Fredericksburg, VA (25 acres) - For Sale 12523 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA (4.8 acres) - Sold 6445 1St Street, Alexandria, VA (.25 acres) - Sold 1391 Dominion Ridge Lane, Herndon, VA (.30 acres) - Sold 12523 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA (4.8 acres) - Sold

Coming Soon!

PAT HEICK

VA. Realtor®, ABR, SFR, TRC Direct:

703-615-6592

pheick@cox.net www.PatHeick.com French and Spanish speaking Expect Great Service!

OUTSTANDING LOCATION!!! Charming 2 bedroom home in Maywood Remodel at your leisure or Rebuild Your Choice!

r. Terry robarge J U N E 2 0 1 4 - S U M M E R R E A L E S TAT E G U I D E

Cell

Sun Gazette

4 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath, 4079 finished sq.ft. gourmet kitchen, custom wet bar

703-850-5067

Diligence. Integrity. Results.

Home Office

Cell 703-244-9481 Office 703-760-8880

NEED A HAND

deb@debmullanrealtor.com

703-780-4584

THREE SIGNS YOU HAVE HIRED THE RIGHT REALTOR. FOR SALE

SALE PENDING

No Gimmicks. Just Results.

McLean/Dolley Madison Office

1313 Dolley Madison Blvd • (703) 760-8880

SOLD

MARIA FELDMAN 703-851-1802

mariafeldman@mris.com www.housethefamily.com