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MCE Loves College Towns
With fall approaching, many families in the DC area are saying goodbye to their children as they move to their college town. Some near, and others far, we want to highlight, in no particular order, some great college towns that our local co-eds call their home away from home.
Oxford, Mississippi
Photo courtesy of: Southern Living
School: The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
About: Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in the rich history, small town charm and creative community. Over the years Oxford has also been known for its excellent culinary scene. We invite you to experience all Oxford has to offer! (www.VisitOxfordms.com)
Where to stay: The Graduate, Oxford
Where to Eat: St. Leo
Where to shop: JANE for the ladies or Hinton & Hinton for the whole family
What to do: Tour William Faulkner’s Home, Rowan Oak
Catch an Ole Miss Game & tailgate in The Grove
Come in the spring for the Double Decker Arts Festival
Charlottesville, Virginia
Photo courtesy of: VisitCharlottesville.com
School: The University of Virginia (UVA)
About: Charlottesville is centrally located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rich in history, culture, natural beauty, and a thriving arts community you can easily fill a weekend. Options throughout the area include first-rate museums and historic sites, galleries, wineries, shops, restaurants, and a variety of outdoor recreation. (Virginia.org)
Where to stay: The Draftsman
Where to eat: Farm Bell Kitchen
Where to shop: Quattro Tizi
What to do: Hike Humpback Rock
Tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Athens, Georgia
School: The University of Georgia (UGA)
About: Just 60 miles northeast of Atlanta, Athens is an edgy college town filled with creative energy. You’ll find plenty of ATHventures in their gardens, museums, forward-thinking restaurants, plus the live music that made the town famous. (visitathensga.com)
Where to stay: The Graduate, Athens
Where to eat: Porterhouse Grill
Where to shop: Heery’s Closet
What to do: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Blacksburg, Virginia
Photo courtesy of: New River Valley
School: Virginia Tech
About: Blacksburg is located in the northern Blue Ridge Highlands region of Virginia. Home to Virginia’s second largest public university, Virginia Tech, visitors can walk the campus and visit the popular Moss Arts Center, home to the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech. Galleries and performances will create a night of splendor when coupled with a leisurely stroll through Downtown Blacksburg to window shop. Enjoy beautiful vistas and the artisanal touch of this cultural crossroad and go to town! (Virginia.org)
Where to stay: Main Street Inn
Where to eat: Cabo Fish Taco
Where to shop: 310 Rosemont
What to do: Moss Art Center
Tour Smithfield Plantation, home of Revolutionary War patriot William Preston
Bloomington, Indiana
Photo courtesy of: Indiana Public Media
School: Indiana University
About: Bloomington is nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana and home to 85,000 residents and tens of thousands of university students and alumni. You’ll cherish the city’s dynamic energy, spectacular scenery, outdoor activities, and world-class educational opportunities, Big Ten sporting events, thriving local businesses, vibrant arts scene and unique shopping and dining experiences. Whether you come for school, business, pleasure, or would like to make this your home, you will be welcome.
Where to stay: The Graduate Bloomington
Where to eat: Janko’s Little Zagreb
Where to shop: Pitaya
What to do: Catch a Hoosier Basketball Game
Walk around the limestone campus of IUl
Dayton, Ohio
Photo courtesy of: The University of Dayton
School: The University of Dayton
About: In Dayton and the surrounding area, you will find big-city amenities with Midwestern charm and affordability. Dayton, known as “The Birthplace of Aviation,” was the home of the Wright Brothers and features two excellent museums. Check out the Destination Dayton Visitors Guide for more information. (Daytoncvb.com)
Where to stay: Marriott at the University of Dayton
Where to eat: The Pine Club
Where to shop: Leeli + Lou
What to do: Visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and the National Museum of the United States Air Force
Take in a Dayton Basketball game
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Photo courtesy of: Our State
School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
About: In a place that’s been awarded almost every “Best Places” award, you’re not going to have trouble finding fun things to do. Music? Check! Performing Arts? Check! Restaurants? Check! Kid-Friendly? Check! Outdoor Recreation? Check! No matter your age or interest, Chapel Hill and the surrounding communities of Carrboro (right next door, West side) and Hillsborough (just about 13 miles to the North) have lots to offer. (visitchapelhill.org)
Where to stay: The Carolina Inn
Where to eat: Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery
Where to shop: Uniquities and Shrunken Head
What to do: Walk through The North Carolina Botanical Gardens
Catch a basketball game
Eugene, Oregon
Photo courtesy of: LOHR Real Estate
School: The University of Oregon
About: Eugene, Oregon is at the south end of the Willamette Valley where two large rivers and many smaller ones meet. It is also a place of converging ideas, artists, innovators, and visionaries. Alongside the new, Eugene embraces the history of the native peoples of the Cascades and Coast region. This destination strives to be welcoming by designing accessibility into growth plans and taking leaps toward a more sustainable future. (eugenecascadescoast.org)
Where to stay: The Inn at 5th
Where to eat: Placido’s Pasta Shop
Where to shop: The shops at 5th Street Market
What to do: Go to the Saturday Market
Hike Spencer Butte Trail
Catch a game at Oregon’s stadium
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Audio & Video Recording Laws in Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland
“This call may be recorded for quality assurance and training purposes.” Almost all of us at some point have called a bank, a hospital, an airline, a department store, or any other commercial institution, and heard a variation of this. While it is true that they are oftentimes using these calls for training purposes there is actually more to it than just helping improve the quality of their customer service. The fact is there are audio recording laws in place in all fifty states and Washington, DC, and to record the call they have to tell us they are doing so.
While the use of audio recordings for customer service and call centers, and video recordings for brick and mortar businesses have been quite common for many years, the rise in popularity amongst homeowners has gone up exponentially in recent years. With the introduction of video doorbells and easy to install surveillance systems, more and more homeowners are opting to record what is happening in and around their property. With this increase in home video and audio recordings, it’s important to know what a homeowner’s obligations are when they are listing their property for sale or for rent.
As one might expect, the laws surrounding electronic recording devices in residential properties do vary depending on the state where the home is located. One thing common in every state is that it’s illegal to record a person in a situation where they would reasonably expect to have privacy, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. Recording them without their consent in these situations is against the law.
Let’s take a look at the differences in audio and video recording laws in Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
Washington, DC
When it comes to audio recording the District of Columbia, like many places in the country, follows the one party consent rule. This means that you do not need the consent of the other party to record any conversation in which you are involved. If you want to record a conversation that you are not a part of, you will need the consent of at least one of the parties involved. For video recording, if your intent is the safety and security of your property, there should be signs clearly located stating that the property is under video surveillance. If a person continues onto the property that qualifies as consent.
Virginia
Like 35 other states including the District of Columbia, Virginia is a one party consent state which means you can legally record any conversation to which you are a party. However, Virginia law does grant an exception – if a person’s communication was in a place where there would not be a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as walking down the street, it can be recorded. As for video surveillance, like the District of Columbia it comes down to intent. It is legal in the state of Virginia to record someone if your intent is the security and safety of your property and your family.
Maryland
Unlike Washington, DC and Virginia, Maryland is one of twelve states that requires the consent of all parties when it comes to audio recordings. However, when it comes to video recordings Maryland takes a very different position. In Maryland you do not need consent from any party to use video recording in your home which also includes your front porch.
As you can see, the laws when it comes to audio and video recording can be quite complex and do vary from state to state. When listing your property for sale or for rent, it is imperative that you know what your rights and responsibilities are as the property owner. Conversely, if you are a prospective buyer or tenant, it is also important that you know what level or privacy you should reasonably expect when touring properties. Regardless of the jurisdiction make sure to ask your trusted McEnearney Associate about the specific laws so that they can guide you through your obligations and/or expectations.
Andy Hill is Executive Vice President and Managing Broker for the Washington, DC and Maryland offices of McEnearney Associates.
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Home Organization to Prep for the New School Year
Back to school time is just around the corner, and while you may already have started to stock up on classroom supplies and after school snacks for your kids, it’s important to think about streamlining your at-home space to get ready for this busy season, too.
Let’s face it: Fall fills up quickly, with kids’ sports games, parent/teacher conferences, field trips, and social events for parents! You’ll want to get ahead of the game by organizing your house so that once your schedule is jam packed with to do’s, you can at least come home to a space that’s orderly and welcoming. Here are some of our top tips.
Photo courtesy of Potter Barn Teen
Get that homework area into tip top shape
Whether your kids like to do their homework upstairs in their rooms or make use of a spot in the family room or basement instead, take advantage of this time before school starts and ensure that everything is ready to go. This means working with your child to clean out desk drawers and part with anything no longer needed (pens that are out of ink, papers from the last school year, and the like) and stock up on essentials (a calculator, protractor, set of colored pencils, you name it!). When school kicks into gear and your child has a mountain of work to tackle, you’ll both be grateful that you planned ahead.
Photo courtesy of Wayfair
Hang a calendar and begin to fill it out
Yes, it’s 2022, and you may be used to managing your schedule digitally. But hanging up a calendar that the entire family can consult (regardless of age or technical ability) can be useful. We aren’t talking about your mom’s paper calendar from the ‘90s, either. There are so many chic erasable calendars that are both eco-friendly and stylish (and make it easy to account for changing plans). Once the calendar is up, it’ll be easier for kids to keep track of where you’ll be on a given date (and vice versa). Plus, you’ll eliminate the likelihood of forgetting about your child’s group project meeting or the potluck happening on your cul-de-sac.
Do a quick closet cleanout
Focus on your kids’ spaces first, then address your own if time allows. Whether you have young children or teenagers, kids grow at a rapid pace, so it’s more than likely you’ll need to stock up on some basics before school starts—and won’t want to save that task for the last minute when the mall is overcrowded and picked over. Work with your child to make piles of clothing to keep, toss, and donate. Make a list of what needs to be replaced prior to the first day of school and then determine a plan of action (what can you buy in-store versus online, etc). Everyone knows that the first day of school is a little less painful when you like what you’re wearing, so use that as a motivator for kids who have a hard time parting with a single thing!
Once you take care of these three main tasks, you and your family will feel a bit less overwhelmed by summer coming to an end and perhaps start to get excited about fall and all of its possibilities. After all, despite being action packed, back to school time is pretty magical.
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelance writer, originally from Bethesda, MD. She contributes to a number of national design and lifestyle publications like Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, and more. Sarah also works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots. Find more shelfies on her Instagram page, @sarahlyon9
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How Much Do Cosmetic Fixes Cost?
This is a common concern for both buyers and sellers! Lately, my team and I have had lots of experience with getting homes show ready and with helping buyers who have purchased a home in need of a bit of TLC before move-in. While every situation is unique, there are some standard costs that we are seeing – which of course are subject to change – but knowing the numbers can help you put these costs into perspective.
As a seller, it’s normal to worry about the costs associated with getting your home ready for sale. We understand that it may seem as if the money could be wasted, especially if buyers want to move in and change things to their liking anyway. However, most buyers overestimate the costs involved in painting, replacing carpet, and other cosmetic fixes. Your final sale price will reflect those worries because buyers are less likely to compete for your listing if it’s viewed as a “fixer upper.”
As a buyer, it can seem daunting to have to spend even more money to make the home move-in ready. After saving up for years to come up with a down-payment and closing costs to buy your new home, the thought of having to spend a bunch of extra money to make a “fixer upper” move-in ready can be scary.
So, let’s talk about some real examples of recent work. This will give you have a better idea of just how expensive it really is to paint and spiff up a home – whether you’re buying or selling.
One of the first things that many people do to make a new home “theirs” is fresh paint! We recently had a home painted in South Arlington that was a bungalow with 1,209 square feet. The cost, including paint and labor, was $4,500. Another home that we are currently working on is in Old Town and it is historic with 1,182 square feet of character, lots of ornate woodwork, and some walls and ceilings to repair. That paint quote was $5,800, due to the extra prep work. Painting costs will also vary depending on whether you want to paint all the ceilings, closets, and woodwork, as we did in those two instances, but this is a good estimate for planning purposes.
Aside from the walls, floors are another concern for many moving into a new home. For some, a “worst case scenario” would be old, dirty carpet that needs to go away, but even hardwood floors can sometimes need some TLC or even replacement. Raul Vasquez, owner of Federal Contracting, has worked with many of our sellers and buyers, and has recently given us some ballpark quotes for several different approaches to flooring. In a basic 20×20 family room, it would start at about $675 to replace wall-to-wall carpet. Nowadays, many are opting for luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) which is a nice option that looks like hardwood but is much easier to care for and maintain. For the same size room, you could install LVT instead of carpet starting around $2,500. Although more expensive initially, it may make sense long term.
If the existing hardwood is in relatively good shape but just needs to be refinished, it can get a little pricier. One recent home that we worked on had all the main level flooring refinished, which was just over 1,500 square feet, and this cost $5,250. Another option is a professional grade polish – this can be a great, lower-cost option that conditions and refreshes the wood to a lovely shine. Pricing for this will be significantly lower than refinishing but will depend on the condition of the wood.
Another big thing that many new homeowners don’t realize is that reglazing a bathtub is easy. Many tubs don’t need to be replaced, just reglazed – and that is much cheaper! A standard bathtub reglazing costs about $400, whereas a new porcelain-enameled cast iron drop-in tub is running anywhere between $1,348 and $3,810 on the local HomeDepot site today, and that doesn’t even account for the installation work.
Now let’s talk about that final cleaning! Even when a home seems to be in tip-top shape, especially since the emergence of COVID, many buyers are opting to have a service come do a thorough cleaning before moving in. While many sellers have their homes cleaned before going on the market, the process of showing the home and can sometimes track in dirt so the new homeowner may want their own service. For a home of about 2,000 square feet a cleaning would start around $450, including appliances.
Federal Contracting provided several of these quotes, and is a Class A contractor, licensed and insured and serving Northern Virginia and DC since 2005. They offer all the above work and more. Please note that the specific numbers quoted here are estimates for work done in the spring and summer of 2022. Exact quotes will, of course, be subject to timing and your specific needs.
I hope these “guesstimates” have helped! Ideally, a seller is putting their home on the market move-in ready. This is usually reflected in the sale price. However, if you need to do some work before moving in, I can provide some guidance while you are shopping for a home, so that you can make informed decisions. Helping you to get quotes for work needed is just one of the many services we offer.
Hope Peele is a licensed real estate agent with McEnearney Associates, Inc. in Alexandria, Virginia. She grew up in Old Town and currently lives in Del Ray. As a partner with The Peele Group, Hope is dedicated to guiding her clients successfully through the many faceted process of buying or selling a home. Contact Hope at 703-244-6115.
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Northern Neck Day Trips
Photo courtesy of: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
If it feels like everyone you know is on vacation this August, and you are itching to dip your toes in the water but don’t have time for a long trip, we are fortunate to have some great getaways not far from the DMV. You can spend a day in Annapolis or perhaps a full weekend in Talbot County, but Maryland isn’t the only place to enjoy an abundance of rivers and the Chesapeake Bay. The Northern Neck (NNK), nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers in Virginia, is also a favorite for day or weekend trips.
Steeped in history and known for excellent fish, crabs, and oysters, the Northern Neck is broken up into 5 counties: King George, Westmoreland, Richmond, Northumberland, and Lancaster. Each county is bordered by at least the Potomac River, Chesapeake Bay, or Rappahannock River. Popular with cyclists, birders, and of course boaters, there is so much to do and see in this beautiful region. We hope you will take the time to explore and support the area’s communities and savor nature’s bounty so close to the DMV.
King George County
Photo courtesy of: King George County
If you are traveling from the DC metro area, King George County bordered by both the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, is the first you will reach by car and the furthest west in the Northern Neck.
Ricks on the River
6338 Riverview Dr, King George, VA 22485
Riverfront restaurant and bar, celebrating summer since 2011. Enjoy good food on the river with breathtaking views.
Tim’s II at Fairview
5411 Pavilion Dr. King George, VA 22485
For over two decades, Tim’s II at Fairview has been a top riverfront destination in King George County for its time-honored seafood recipes and unique mixed drinks.
Unique Antiques and Home Decor Mall
9600 James Madison Pkwy, King George, VA 22485
Unique Antiques is the area’s largest home décor mall, featuring over 140 dealers specializing in exquisite antique furniture and collectibles, as well as French Country, primitive, farm style, nautical, mid-century modern and retro home décor.
Westmoreland County
Photo courtesy of: Our Community Now
Westmoreland County, just east of King George, is also bordered by both the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, although the Potomac coastline is the majority. Colonial Beach (CBVA) is one of the most popular towns for dining and overnight accommodations in the NNK. There are five beaches in the area including the downtown Ferry Landing District with a boardwalk, municipal fishing pier, and bathhouse facility.
Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar
1787 Castlewood Dr, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
Fun and enjoyable for all, whether you dine in the Bourbon Bar by the fireplace, on the screened-in porch, in the sand at our picnic tables or at our tiki bar.
Wilkerson’s Seafood Restaurant
3900 McKinney Blvd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
Overlooking the Potomac River, Wilkerson’s has been serving you since 1946. From delicious seafood to mouthwatering steaks, there is something for everyone and for every budget.
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
George Washington Birthplace National Monument encompasses 550 acres of the former Popes Creek Plantation, the American ancestral home of the Washington Family.
Miss Lora’s Flowers and Gifts
15764 Kings Hwy, Montross, VA 22520
Miss Lora’s Flowers and Gifts proudly serves Montross, Virginia and surrounding areas. Family owned and operated, they are committed to offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts.
Richmond County
Photo courtesy of: Richmond County
If you continue southeast on Route 3, the next county is Richmond which is bordered by the Rappahannock River on the south. In 1996, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect and conserve wildlife habitats along the river. Five areas are open to the public.
Relish Restaurant and Wine Bar
Relish serves contemporary southern cuisine that is locally sourced and fresh from the farm.
Old Rapp Taphouse
Old Rapp Taphouse loves the Northern Neck lifestyle; play hard and work harder (or vice versa some days). They pay tribute to that daily by sourcing locally produced ingredients whenever possible, focusing on leaving a small footprint on this beautiful land, and by lending a hand in the community.
Northern Neck Popcorn Bag
Fresh, handcrafted gourmet popcorn. Come on in and pick your flavor or order online.
Northumberland County
Photo courtesy of: Northumberland County
Northumberland County, east of Westmoreland and Richmond counties, is bordered by the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay with popular marina’s for recreational and commercial boating. You can even book a boat cruise to Tangier Island out of Reedville.
Horn Harbor Restaurant
836 Horn Harbor Rd, Burgess, VA 22432
Great spot to come with friends and family to enjoy American style food in their classic dining room or out on the patio. Horn Harbor even has access for those who want to pull up by boat.
The Crazy Crab
902 Main St, Reedville, VA 22539
The Crazy Crab is a Reedville tradition where family and friends meet by land or by boat to enjoy delicious food and spirits while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Chesapeake Bay!
Ye Olde Book Shoppe
7202 Northumberland Hwy, Heathsville, VA 22473
If you can’t live without books, and you love to get lost in stories, then this is the place for you!
Lancaster County
Photo courtesy of: Lancaster County
Lancaster County, the southeastern tip of the NNK, is bordered by the Rappahannock River and the Chesapeake Bay. If you find yourself looking for an overnight stay, The Tides Inn is a relaxing resort in Irvington with golf and spa services.
Willaby’s Cafe
327 Old Ferry Rd, White Stone, VA 22578
Willaby’s is all about bringing people together with great food and delicious beverages. You can eat in the dining room, outside on their deck or beach, or call for a curbside pickup!
KC’s Crabs & Cues
10428 Jessie Dupont Memorial Hwy, Kilmarnock, VA 22482
KC’S Crabs & Cues is locally owned, offering a great place to relax and unwind in a friendly atmosphere with great service, wonderful food and drinks, and a top-notch billiards room.
Rocks To Gems and Crystals
8794 Mary Ball Rd, Lancaster, VA 22503
Rocks to Gems and Crystals has been prospecting for gems and minerals for over ten years from Maine to Arizona. Check out their custom jewelry, gifts, and more.
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The Family Reunion
After an incredible first year, Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s “The Family Reunion” returns for a second time to the Salamander Resort in Middleburg Virginia this August, 18-21, and we couldn’t be more excited.
James Beard Award-winning Chef Kwame Onwuachi comes together with Food & Wine to present this three-day, immersive experience that has been lauded by both guests and talent alike; it is a revered moment to elevate some of the most important voices in the culinary industry while also bringing about glorious celebrations, pivotal discussions, and unforgettable shared experiences.
Onwuachi, author of the acclaimed memoir Notes from a Young Black Chef, said “The Family Reunion was created to celebrate Black and Brown contributions to the food industry. Join us as we kick off year two of festivities with bigger, better and even more important programming.”
Chef Onwuachi is joined by a number of the industry’s top talent, including James Beard Award-winning chef, author, and entrepreneur Alexander Smalls; three-time Chopped champion Andre Fowles; James Beard Award-winning chef and BBQ pitmaster Rodney Scott; author and culinary historian Dr. Jessica B. Harris; and Carla Hall, a restaurateur, Top Chef alum and host of the Emmy Award-winning series The Chew. (Please visit The Family Reunion website to view a full list of celebrity guests, speakers, presenters, and more.)
This multifaceted event carries its attendees through a variety of experiences, including compelling panel discussions, topical cooking demonstrations, and invigorating recreational activities. In addition, daily “family” meals will be served, bringing together attendees and celebrity participants alike.
“The Family Reunion is more than an event. It’s a culmination and celebration of different cultures with food as a vehicle,” Onwuachi said. “We are bringing the most important voices in the culinary industry together to share anecdotes, recipes and viewpoints in order to leave with our hearts and minds full.”
Furthermore, The Family Reunion website states that its mission is “to nurture, develop and celebrate racial and ethnic diversity within the next generation of hospitality professionals,” and we are so excited to both see and feel this paramount mission come to life at the event.
McEnearney Associates is honored to be sponsoring The Family Reunion, and we hope you are as thrilled as we are to be able to experience the work of these brilliant creators.
Photo courtesy of: Kwame Onwuachi
Kwame Onwuachi is a James Beard Award-winning chef and author of the critically acclaimed memoir “Notes from a Young Black Chef,” which is being turned into a feature film by A24.
Kwame’s resume is incomparable: he has been named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs, Esquire Magazine’s 2019 Chef of the Year, and is a 30 Under 30 honoree by both Zagat and Forbes.
He’s also been featured on Time’s 100 Next List and has been named the most important Chef in America by the San Francisco Chronicle.
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Keep Your Deck Or Patio Mosquito-Free
This week we would like to share some tips on how to keep your outdoor area mosquito free courtesy of our friends at J.P. Weigand & Sons, Inc. in Kansas, also an affiliate member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World.
Let’s face it, no one likes mosquitos and it’s no fun when you are being bit constantly by them when you are just trying to enjoy the outdoors. Below are some helpful tips that will keep mosquitoes away!
Add Fans to Your Outside Spaces
Mosquitoes are small and not particularly strong. Setting up a few oscillating fans can help keep your deck or patio free of pests by literally blowing the mosquitos away. They also supply your guests with a refreshing breeze.
Swap Your Light Bulbs
Instead of decorating with or using white light bulbs, swap them for yellow bulbs. White light attracts mosquitoes, while yellow light won’t attract them as much. You can even use light bulbs that are designed to repel mosquitoes.
Set Up a Bat Habitat
Bats are a mosquito’s natural predator. By attracting more bats to your yard, you’ll help keep your mosquito population under control. Consider setting up a specially-designed house that bats can use for shelter.
Get Rid of Any Areas Where Standing Water Can Accumulate
Mosquitoes need standing water to reproduce; make sure that you go through your yard and eliminate or fix any areas where water can accumulate. This includes items like toys, grass clippings, old leaves, tarps, and buckets.
If you have areas of standing water that you don’t want to eliminate, treat the water with an insecticide that will kill mosquitoes.
Set Up a Shelter with Netted Walls
Consider adding a structure to your outdoor patio or deck that allows you to set up netted walls. Netted walls will work to keep mosquitoes and other flying pests out of your gathering spot.
Use Tiki Torches or Citronella Candles to Fight Mosquitoes
While tiki torches and citronella candles are always excellent ways to add ambiance to your patio or deck, they’re also a helpful option for combating mosquitoes. You’ll want to set the torches or candles up close to the area of your deck or patio you’ll be using.
Add Mosquito-Repelling Vegetation to Your Garden
Some types of plants are natural mosquito repellants. Plant species to add include citronella, marigolds, calendula, lemongrass, rosemary, and mint. If you don’t have a garden near your deck or patio, add planters or window boxes so that the vegetation is nearby.
Have a Professional Treat Your Yard
If you’re still struggling with mosquitoes, hire a professional to treat your yard with a barrier treatment. These treatments last approximately three weeks, and you can use them as a recurring or one-time service. Should you decide to go this route, you’ll need to keep your pets indoors for approximately an hour after your yard is treated.
Interested in buying a home with more outdoor space? Check out our a few of our newest Just Listed listings below or take a look for yourself on our McEnearney website!
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Accessorize Your Home with Square Footage & Income
Homeowners have been using their properties to earn additional income or expand their living options for as long as there have been shared living spaces. Whether they are over-the-garage studios, garden or “English basement” apartments, in-law suites, “granny flats,” or stand-alone carriage houses, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) offer passive income while also easing limited inventory in the rental market.
But what qualifies an ADU, how are they regulated, and what should ADU-aspirers watch out for as they begin the process of expanding their property management?
Simply put, an ADU is a second residential area on a homeowner’s property. It can be detached from the main home or built within the primary as an attached but separate or walled-off living space for the privacy of the residents. An ADU will have its own bedroom(s), kitchen and bath, and usually have a separate entrance, allowing residents to function independently of the main property.
As with most residential real estate, ADUs are subject to zoning regulations and homeowners can expect applications, permits, inspections, and tax assessments when establishing or building an ADU (helpful local links are provided below). Homeowners should be sure to follow local guidelines and laws when establishing an ADU.
ADUs can require significant financial investment and can be as utilitarian or luxurious as desired, and homeowners should budget anywhere from $300-$500/SF or about $125k-$400K for renovations, excavations, and construction. How an ADU will be used – for living, home office, working out, etc. – will determine how much space you need, what utilities are required, necessary parking, accessibility needs, and other logistics. Depending on zoning requirements and the size of the lot, ADUs can be as custom and expansive as “Tiny Homes,” new or pre-fab construction of completely independent homes with a very small footprint. More often in a dense metro area like ours where buildable land is scarce, ADUs are converted spaces, usually in basements or garages and can be creative challenges.
How the ADU is used is up to the homeowner and can become additional living space for family members or as an income-generating property for long- or short-term rentals. Pandemic living has shown us the ways the home is the center of our world and ADUs offer flexible family living, whether it be for multi-generational members co-existing under one roof, childcare or eldercare staff, age-in-place parents, work/school-from-home refuge, or an artistic escape.
Rentals, quickly becoming one of the fastest growing uses of ADUs, are subject to local regulations for short-term offerings (less than 6-months) like AirBnB or VRBO. For example, in Alexandria an ADU can’t have more than three people living in it and the ADU can’t be rented at the same time as the primary home. Homeowners should check their local jurisdiction to see if there are any grants or benefits for adding affordable rental units on their property.
One of the most promising – but hotly debated – outcomes of the popularity and proliferation of ADUs is their impact on the local housing market. At a time when rental inventory is historically tight, ADUs allow homeowners to earn income while also alleviating rental pressure with affordable housing. Many people believe this is a win-win for communities – enriching homeowners at a time of rising inflation while also providing much needed independent rental inventory at a price range that is often non-existent in urban markets. But detractors across the nation (including, currently, in Arlington) say that density housing, including ADUs, are crowding single-family neighborhoods and putting additional pressure on parking and utilities and lead to noise, crowding, and increased taxes.
A decade ago our local leaders were debating the value of ADUs and the ensuing years have only increased the popularity and push for this type of supplemental housing. Local systems throughout the region have been updated and adapted to clarify qualifications, streamline applications, and ensure consistency throughout the process, making ADUs an attractive option for homeowners with the space, budget, and creativity to expand their homes and their real estate empire in the process.
For more information about ADUs, follow the links below and stay tuned for updates at our McEnearney Blog.
- Washington D.C. | Accessible Dwelling Units Homeowners Manual
- Washington D.C. | Accessory Apartments Zoning Handbook
- Virginia | Accessible Dwelling Units
- Montgomery County, Maryland | Accessible Dwelling Units
- City of Alexandria, Virginia | Accessory Dwelling Unit Policy
- Arlington, Virginia | Accessory Dwelling Permit
- Fairfax County, Virginia | Accessory Living Units
Karisue Wyson, Director of Recruiting & Agent Support at McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article, contact Karisue at 703-615-0876 or email kwyson@mcenearney.com.
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Creating a Relaxing Hang Out Space for Kids
As the start of the school year creeps closer and closer, it’s more important than ever to think about creating a relaxing space for your kids at home. If your children have outgrown their playroom but still need a place to lounge that isn’t their bedroom, you may wish to consider designing a hangout space that’s just for your tweens or teens. Here’s what you’ll need to create the ultimate at-home retreat for your kids.
Photo courtesy of: West Elm
Comfy Furniture:
As any parent knows, it isn’t worth investing in furniture that kids will just lay on (possibly with dirty sneakers or while consuming sticky snacks). However, your not-so-little ones will need a surface on which to splay out as they play video games, scroll through TikTok, or finish that pesky summer reading novel. We suggest opting for swivel lounge chairs (like these, which are oversized) or going for a more modern twist on the traditional bean bag.
Ottomans are also excellent as they can serve double or even triple duty. Place a tray atop one of them and turn it into an end table, but simultaneously take advantage of its storage capabilities and stuff some throw blankets inside. When friends come over, ottomans can turn into extra seating.
Open Shelving:
Open shelving will jazz up plain walls in an instant and your kids can choose to display whatever they’d like: books, succulents, speakers, art pieces…the list goes on. You can even designate a shelf or set of shelves for each child to decorate as he or she pleases so that there’s no arguing over what goes where!
A Stylish Media Center:
Mount a flatscreen TV on the wall or consider splurging on a Samsung Frame TV (it’s ultra sleek in appearance and is well loved for its ability to camouflage as a framed art piece when turned off). To help disguise the TV even further, hang a gallery wall of favorite art pieces around the screen. Retailers including Etsy, Artfully Walls, and Society6 are chock full of affordable, contemporary looking art pieces, some of which can even be downloaded digitally and printed out at home. Looking to go a more sentimental route? Incorporate favorite art pieces your kids have brought home over the years, as well as special awards, family photos, and mementos from trips and sports games. The more personal touches, the better!
Photo courtesy of Crate & Barrel Kids
Finishing Touches:
Now that you’ve incorporated the essentials, don’t forget about finishing touches that you’ll need to take your tween hangout room from good to great. These include an area rug, some throw pillows, and a few lamps, all of which will help add a cozy touch to the space. Let your kids play a role in helping choose these items so that the room feels more like their own. They’ll appreciate you letting them have the opportunity to weigh in!
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelance writer, originally from Bethesda, MD. She contributes to a number of national design and lifestyle publications like Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, and more. Sarah also works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots. Find more shelfies on her Instagram page, @sarahlyon9
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Top Dog Parks Within The DMV
The hottest weeks of the year are often referred to as the “dog days” of summer – a time when it’s even too hot for dogs to be running around. We know that’s not really the origin of the term, but we decided it was a great time to celebrate our devoted furry friends! A couple dates to note on your calendar are: DOGust on August 1st (the universal birthday for shelter dogs), and National Dog Day on August 26th. Of course you don’t really need a reason to give your pup extra attention or play time. In that spirit, we’ve put together a list of our favorite dog parks in the DMV.
WASHINGTON D.C.
Photo Courtesy of: Newark Dog Street Park
Newark Street Dog Park
39th and Newark Street, NW Washington, DC 20016
Newark Street Dog Park was designed for the enjoyment of dogs and people alike. The Dog Park is located in the sunny southwest corner of the Newark Street Park complex, beyond the children’s playground.
West End Dog Park
25th St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Great spot to take your furry best friend to mingle with other dogs.
Kingsman Field Dog Park
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation Kingsman Field dog park project at 14th Street and Tennessee Avenue, NE, is a partnership between DPR and Hill Hounds.
Langdon Dog Park
2901 20th Street NE, Washington, DC 20018
Langdon Park is one of the largest parks in the entire District. The Dog Park provides a convenient and accessible place for these many dog-owning neighbors to meet, build relationships, and strengthen their communities.
Photo Courtesy of: Friends of NoMa Dogs-FOND
Swampoodle Park
3rd &, L St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Friends of NoMa Dogs (FOND) is a charitable organization charged with the care and maintenance of NoMa’s first dog park, Swampoodle Park. Swampoodle park is a great urban park. Every inch of space is planned to maximize community enjoyment, from the 5,000 square foot dog park to children’s Walhalla Play structure.
VIRGINA
Dog Parks in Your Neighborhood – Attached is a PDF with information regarding the parks below. Please feel free to download and print a copy for yourself!
- Potomac Yard at 561 East Monroe Ave.
- Founders Park at North Union St.
- Windmill Hill Park at South Union St.
- Simpson Stadium Park at Monroe Ave. (lighted)
- Duke Street east of the Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Library
- Montgomery Park at the corner of Fairfax and 1st Streets
- Dog Run Park at Carlyle, 450 Andrew’s Ln.
- Ben Brenman Park by Backlick Creek (lighted)
CLICK HERE To View Dog Parks Within Arlington County
Photo Courtesy of: Barkhaus
Barkhaus
529 E Howell Ave, Alexandria, VA, US, 22301
Come and enjoy great food and drinks while watching your best friend runaround off leash indoor and outdoor. This is a great place to socialize for humans and dogs alike!
Photo Courtesy of: Shirlington Dogs
The Shirlington Dogs II
2710 S Oakland St, Arlington, VA 22206
The Shirlington Dog Park was established over thirty years ago and was one of the first officially recognized off-leash dog exercise areas in the region. Being approximately two acres in size, its narrow, quarter-mile length with an accessible trail, runs along an urban stream on the one side and warehouse buildings on the other. There is also a separate adjoining area for small dogs.
Rosslyn Gateway Park
1300 Lee Highway Arlington, VA 22201
Bring your dog(s) to Gateway Park to enjoy some exercise while socializing with neighboring dogs off leash.
Creighton West Park
Creighton Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175
The Creighton West Dog Park is located along the trail that runs from Creighton Road to Ryan Road. The dog park contains two separate areas: one area for dogs 25 pounds and under, and another area for dogs of any size. This park is for the use and enjoyment of all Brambleton residents.
MARYLAND
Waggertail Dog Park
5400 Haig Dr, Riverdale, MD 20737
Waggertail is a large, grassy dog park that has a fenced, lobby area containing gates opening into large and small dog areas. Features include a water fountain, large shade trees, comfortable benches and over 2 acres of space giving dogs and people plenty of room to get acquainted. Please register your dog here.
College Park Dog Park Association
College Park Dog Park, Maryland 20740
The College Park Dog Park is a great place to bring your dogs of all shapes and sizes to run around and meet other dogs alike.
Kensington Dog Park
10450 Metropolitan Ave, Kensington, MD 20895
Lots of room for your furry friend to run around and enjoy the outdoors while meeting others. Great convenient option for dog owners who need to tire their pup out!
Dog Park at Cabin John Regional Park
7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda, MD 20817
Exercise and socialize your pet in a safe and clean environment.
Ellsworth Urban Dog Park
621 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910
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