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Summer Day Trip to Annapolis, MD
Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is a quaint town located on the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay. Its historic district includes 18th-century brick houses, the 1700s Maryland State House, St. John’s College (the third oldest college in the United States), and the sprawling grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy. The charm of Annapolis extends to local pubs with harbor views, unique shops, and lots of public benches to relax and take in the scenery. There is even a free shuttle bus that you can take around downtown.
If you spend the day at Annapolis and decide that you want to stay the night, we have you covered. Check out Reynolds Tavern or Annapolis Waterfront Hotel to continue your fun!
Things To Do:
Photo courtesy of: The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
723 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403
The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park (AMM) educates youth and adults about the area’s rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay through programs, exhibits, and community events.
$5 | Tickets
William Paca Garden
186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
The William Paca Garden is a two acre oasis of natural beauty in the bustling center of Annapolis’ Historic District. Although many colonial residents had gardens, only Paca’s has been returned to its original splendor and opened to the public.
Banneker-Douglass Museum
84 Franklin Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum serves to document, interpret, and promote African American history and culture (particularly in Maryland). Through exhibitions, programs, and projects the museum’s mission is to improve the understanding and appreciation of America’s rich cultural diversity.
Free Admission
Water Cruises:
Photo courtesy of: Watermark Tours Charters Cruises
Annapolis Harbor & U.S. Naval Academy
Step aboard the classic Harbor Queen for a narrated cruise of the Annapolis Harbor and the banks of the U.S. Naval Academy. Hear the history of the Naval Academy, Annapolis’ role as a historic seaport, the region’s waterways, and catch a glimpse of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
$22 Adult & $7 Child | Tickets
Spa Creek Cruise
Come aboard, Miss Anne, for an intimate cruise up Spa Creek into the residential area of Old Annapolis and Eastport. Cruise close to the homes and yachts that line the shore, up to the headwaters of Spa Creek and along the banks of the U.S. Naval Academy.
$22 Adult & $7 Child | Walk-ups only
Spirits & Spirits
During this walking tour and cruise combination experience, you’ll brave the Historic District by foot and hear spooky stories from your Ghost Guide. Then you’ll continue on through the haunted waterways of Annapolis and be entertained with nautical myths and pirate tales.
$40 | Tickets
Food & Beverages
Photo courtesy of: Pusser’s Caribbean Grille
Pusser’s Caribbean Grille
80 Compromise Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Pusser’s Caribbean Grille is a casual, unique, waterfront restaurant in downtown Annapolis. Consistently awarded the “Best in Dockside Dining”, Pusser’s offers fresh Chesapeake seafood, tasty Caribbean fare, and a colorful selection of tropical drinks, including the world famous Pusser’s Painkiller.
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
124 Dock Street, Annapolis, Maryland
With over 80% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities unemployed nationwide, the Wrights believe that Bitty & Beau’s Coffee creates a path for people with disabilities to become more valued, accepted and included in every community.
Fox’s Den
179 B Main Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401
At Fox’s Den, they strive to offer a great selection of American beer and spirits along with incredible comfort food anchored by their wood-fired brick oven pizzas.
Flamant
17 Annapolis Street, West Annapolis, MD | 21401
Founded in 2016, Flamant is a Bistro in the heart of West Annapolis. Flamant represents Chef de Pue’s classical training in Belgium, but is defined by his team’s love for seasonal cooking, world travel, and of course, his European roots.
Shop Til You Drop
Photo courtesy of: A.L. Goodies
Lilac Bijoux
180 Main Street, Suite 101, Annapolis, MD 21401
Lilac Bijoux offers women’s apparel, accessories, shoes, and gifts in downtown Annapolis. Lilac Bijoux is a reflection of owner Fernanda’s breezy personality and passion for easy style.
A.L. Goodies
With four floors of shopping space, A.L. Goodies brings a whole new name to one-stop shopping. The store stocks everything from clothing to fudge to souvenirs.
The Cottage
149 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
The Cottage features a wide variety of clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories and unique gifts for all occasions. The boutique carries well known designers from across the country as well as local treasures.
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Is a ‘new build’ right for you?
The past year’s red-hot residential real estate market, with its seemingly ever-increasing prices and razor-thin inventories, has led many buyers to consider whether a newly built home may be just the solution. For some families, this alternative may make perfect sense. Here are some factors to consider.
The supply of newly built houses on the market in the DMV does seem to be more buyer friendly. The “absorption rate” (the ratio of homes on the market to contracts being written) for existing houses is less than two months; for newly built homes the rate may be closer to six months. The looser supply means substantially more bargaining power, and potentially less chance of getting caught up in a bidding war, for a newly built home.
Builders sometimes also offer incentives to use a particular lender or settlement company — although an experienced Realtor will counsel you to shop among multiple lenders for the best rate.
Newly built homes are often more energy-efficient and require less maintenance, which can certainly result in substantial cost savings over time. A new build also usually comes with warranties on workmanship and materials like windows, roofs, appliances and HVAC systems. Some builders even offer extended warranties. Of course, warranties are generally available through third parties for existing homes as well.
The non-financial factors are more of a mixed bag. New subdivisions tend to be located farther from city centers, which can result in longer commutes and less ready access to urban amenities such as restaurants, museums and concerts. Existing homes will usually be in more established neighborhoods with more mature landscaping.
On the other hand, a newly built home may afford more customization options to fit your tastes and preferences, such as cabinets, flooring, backsplashes and paint colors. (Often, the best prices come from selecting one of the builder’s “design boards,” because the builder can negotiate supplier discounts for those options.) A buyer can also select custom options geared to help him or her “age in place.” Finally, many new subdivisions offer community features such as pools and clubhouses.
Timing can also be a major consideration. For an existing home, a transaction can move very quickly indeed. Once your offer is accepted by the seller, the closing and move-in date can often be within a month to six weeks. New builds can take significantly longer to be ready for move in. Depending on the stage of construction, and the completion and closing dates, it could well be six months to a year down the road, and, depending on supply chain issues, further delays could come up.
Moreover, new builds are also subject to comprehensive permitting requirements and inspections, which can result in further delays. During all that time, inflation could be causing construction materials prices to increase, and interest rates could be rising. Recently some builders have actually stopped pre-selling their homes because of the current uncertainty regarding costs and completion time.
Whether to add newly built homes to your search is a deeply individualized decision based on a number of financial considerations and personal preferences. Whether you are solely in the market for an existing home or a new build, an experienced Realtor can help you weigh the options and find the home and neighborhood that’s right for you.
Jean Beatty is a licensed real estate agent in VA, MD, and DC with McEnearney Associates Realtors® in McLean, VA. If you would like more information on selling or buying in today’s complex market, contact Jean at 301-641-4149 or visit her website JeanBeatty.com.
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Mortgage Financing in a Competitive Market (Part 2, purchasing the next home before selling the existing home)
In April, Part 1 of our series on Mortgage Financing in a Competitive Market looked at preparing to make an offer. This month we discuss how to make your offer without a home sale contingency.
You may have heard the real estate market is starting to slow down. Recent sales data seem to support that notion. You should keep in mind, however, that slowing down does not mean a slow market. It means the frenetic pace at which residential real estate has been sold over the past several years is a little less frenetic now. Interest rates have risen significantly which does have a chilling effect on home buying. Consumer sentiment over the economy has turned sour and that has a negative impact on home sales as well. But the most important factor driving the current home sales market is the demand for housing relative to the supply. Demand continues to outpace supply which generally means there is more than one prospective buyer for every home available for sale. Many, if not most homes listed for sale are still likely to receive more than one offer, which means if you want to be successful, your offer needs to be more attractive than the other(s).
One aspect of a contract which may be less attractive to a seller is a home sale contingency. If you choose to or must sell your home before buying the next property, the seller may accept an offer from another prospective purchaser with no such contingency. Some purchasers have both the income and the liquid assets necessary to be able to purchase the next home without first selling the existing home, but many do not. Determining which category you fall into requires a conversation with an experienced and competent mortgage professional as part of the preliminary approval process. You should also know that many mortgage loan officers will suggest that a person cannot purchase without first selling because the mortgage company does not offer bridge financing, or the loan officer is not aware of methods of generating the cash required to complete a purchase. It is truly in a purchaser’s best interest to make sure they are speaking with the right mortgage professional.
If you have the income required to carry the debt structure on two homes at once, there are multiple ways of generating the cash required to cover the down payment and closing costs on the next home. A traditional bridge loan secured by the property to be sold is one way to make it happen. Unfortunately, most mortgage lenders do not offer bridge financing. Some of us do, so make sure you are speaking with the right mortgage professional. A traditional bridge loan is secured by the property which will be sold and, by definition, is a temporary loan which will be paid in full upon the sale of the current home. The bridge loan usually takes out any mortgage which already exists on the property and will generally not exceed a loan-to-value of 70-80%.
An alternative to a bridge loan is a home equity line of credit (HELOC) secured by the current home. It is a good idea to have in place the largest HELOC possible on your current home to allow you to quickly access the equity for all eventualities. A HELOC can be used for emergencies, for investment opportunities, or to make the down payment on the next home without first selling the existing home. Unfortunately, if you have already found the next home it is too late to begin the process of establishing a HELOC. It generally takes most depository institutions 45 days to approve a HELOC and they won’t do so for a home which is to be sold or to be converted to a rental property.
Another common means of generating cash for a home purchase is to borrow against retirement plans. Most qualified retirement plans allow the plan participants to borrow funds for the purchase of a primary residence. The IRS allows plan participants to borrow up to 50% of the vested balance in the plan with a maximum loan of $50,000. A two-person household where both people are employed and have active retirement account balances in excess of $100,000 can generate $100,000 in retirement loans together to be used for the down payment on the next home. Retirement account loans are usually offered at very attractive interest rates and do not count as a debt when underwriting the mortgage for the next home. Retirement account loans are not distributions and do not have a tax consequence.
Gifts from family members are a common way of generating the cash for the next purchase. If a family member is able and willing to help but does not wish to provide an outright gift, they can be the source of a “bridge” loan secured by the existing home or even a subordinate mortgage on the new home.
The long and the short of it is there may be multiple ways to assist a homebuyer in generating the funds needed to purchase the next home without first selling the existing home. You simply need to explore the possible options with the right mortgage professional.
Brian Bonnet | Senior Loan Office
Atlantic Coast Mortgage, LLC
e: bbonnet@acmllc.com | t: 703-766-6702
A lifelong resident of Northern Virginia, Brian brings twenty-five years of lending experience to the group. After graduating from The Citadel and serving as a Naval Officer, Brian transitioned to the United States Senate Veteran’s Affairs Committee where he served as a Professional Staff Member and had the responsibility of overseeing the VA Loan Guaranty program. After leaving Capitol Hill and the political world, Brian entered the mortgage banking industry. Keeping abreast of the myriad changes in the lending industry over the years has given Brian a unique perspective and the ability to successfully serve his clients regardless of the current market conditions. With his extensive knowledge about the VA and its loan guaranty program, Brian is widely recognized as a specialist in VA financing. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with others and is certified to teach Financing Continuing Education in Virginia, DC, and Maryland.
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Mastering the Art of Stylish Summer Entertaining
Summer is officially here, which means lots of time spent gathering with friends and family al fresco. If you’re in need of a few pointers as we get back into the swing of entertaining large groups, you’re in luck. Keep reading for four top hosting tips that will serve you well this season.
1) Keep Drink Offerings Limited
Your friends certainly don’t need to be treated to an open bar the next time they stop by for burgers. Serving just a few summer inspired beverages can actually make the occasion feel more festive and intentional than if you simply empty your liquor cabinet and set everything up outside. And as a bonus, fewer drink options = less prep and less stress. We suggest whipping up a seasonal sangria (perhaps with a rosé base), setting out a favorite summer beer, and offering a flavored sparkling water for guests who prefer to abstain from alcohol. Hosting kiddos? Place juice pouches in a cooler for an easy grab and go option for active little ones.
Photo courtesy of: Sticky Fingers Sweets & Treats
2) Play To Your Strengths
Maybe you’re a fabulous cook but not so strong in the baking department. Well, there’s no need to panic if Aunt Sally is coming over and expects dessert—it’s more than ok to mix and match homemade and store bought offerings when entertaining. Summer is all about casual get togethers and enjoying time outdoors with loved ones, anyway. Not sure what to serve that doesn’t scream grocery store? Grab some fruit tarts from your favorite local bakery or pick out ice creams, sorbets, and a variety of toppings and offer a make-your-own sundae station. Your guests won’t care where your dessert offerings came from as long as they’re festive looking and delicious.
Photo courtesy of: Sur La Table
3) Update Your Servingware
There’s no need to bring all of your nice glass pieces outside. Melamine pieces are excellent for outdoor dining and can be quite stylish. If you’re a grandmillennial, take a peek at these bamboo plates, which are available for purchase online via DC based boutique Tuckernuck. We’re also loving these blue and white beauties from Sur La Table.
4) Create A Playlist
The best part about hosting is that you get to choose the tunes! Scroll through Spotify and find one that inspires you, or task your spouse or teenager with making a seasonal (yet appropriate!) playlist. Then make sure to pick up a portable speaker that you can station outside; this one easily connects to Bluetooth and is aesthetically pleasing to boot.
Feeling ready to host? We bet you are! Send out that mass text and invite everyone over for a simple yet stylish backyard get together that will surely be the talk of the neighborhood.
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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14 Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers Near Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
What says summer more than sand between your toes or floating quietly on the water? Of course the DMV has the Potomac River right in our backyard, but you don’t have to travel too far for even more variety – from ocean beaches and boardwalks to sprawling lakes and the beautiful Chesapeake Bay, you can get away for one day or plan a week-long vacation. Grab your new swimsuit, a boogie board or floatie, and favorite snacks, then head to these nearby watering holes this summer.
Beaches by the Ocean and the Bay
1. Dewey Beach, Delaware
Dewey Beach, the city, lies on a strip of land about one mile long and two blocks wide. It is lined with a wide, sandy beach opening to a clean stretch of ocean on one side, and by a broad bay on the other side. During the summer months, it is known for young revelers coming to spend nights at any one of the iconic bars in the area, but it is also a popular spot for families to visit. There are a wide array of accommodations, from hotels and condos to houses small or large. Plenty of restaurants line the boardwalk, from takeaway fries to casual seafood to fine dining. The beach even stays dog-friendly during peak season before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m.
2. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Just up the coast from Dewey Beach, this regional destination boasts one of the best boardwalks in the nation. Among its many magnificent finds along the boardwalk, the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series is one of the best reasons to visit. Consider making a second stop at the Dogfish Head brewery nearby.
3. Ocean City, Maryland
Our favorite destination for a typical boardwalk experience, complete with a scenic beach, arcades, Ferris Wheels, and every variety of fried food, Ocean City is a nearby gem worth visiting year after year. Like Rehoboth Beach, this town also boasts one of the best boardwalks in the nation. Take a look for yourself on the OC Boardwalkcam.
4. Chesapeake Beach, Maryland
An hour-long drive outside of D.C., the Town of Chesapeake Beach has a quaint beach town feel without missing a beat on all your favorite things about going to the beach. Spend some time on the boardwalk or take a stroll along the trails. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, Chesapeake Beach is the perfect place to get in some sailing lessons or a chartered fishing trip on the Bay.
5. Sandy Point Beach, Maryland
Another beloved spot along the Chesapeake Bay, Sandy Point State Park is about 45 minutes outside of D.C. and offers plenty to see and do throughout the 768-acres. Take advantage of the trails, cool off with a swim, play some ball, escape land and head out on your boat, or catch some fish or crab for dinner. Make it a full day adventure and do some sightseeing in nearby historic Annapolis. Keep Sandy Point in mind for the Annual Maryland Seafood Festival, which this year will take place on September 24th and 25th.
6. Flag Ponds Nature Park, Maryland
A great day trip, this park along the Chesapeake Bay is perfect for exploring how natural forces have shaped the shoreline. From sandy beach, to freshwater ponds, and the forested Calvert Cliffs, the landscape continues to change over time. Fossil hunters will also love combing the surf for sharks teeth and more.
Chesapeake Beach, Sandy Point, and Flag Ponds Nature Park are all located west of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, making the travel time from DC very appealing. But if you keep going and cross onto Maryland’s Eastern Shore, you will find charming towns within Talbot County that offer a quieter pace of life.
7. Virginia Beach, Virginia
For a getaway perfect for anyone and everyone, Virginia Beach is the place to go. About 3.5 hours away, it’s well worth it to spend a couple of days here. You’ll find miles of shoreline, a 3-mile long boardwalk, multiple state parks, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Spend an educational afternoon at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center or the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Do we even need to mention all the attractions for the history buffs?
Rivers and Lakes
8. National Harbor, Maryland
This capital area favorite is the perfect way to enjoy being waterfront without necessarily getting your feet wet. Plan a delicious dinner at any of the plethoras of restaurants and stay for the sunset. No matter what time of day, a ride on the Capital Wheel is a great way to take in the gorgeous views along the Potomac. If you are a more experienced swimmer, check out the weekly open water swims offered by Wave One Open Water to hone your distance swimming.
9. Colonial Beach, Virginia
Surrounded by water on three sides, this resort town has the second-longest public beach in Virginia. Also a designated bird sanctuary, the area is well known for bald eagles, osprey, hawks, and other water birds. History, boating, fishing, and a vibrant dining scene make this a great choice for family and friends to gather.
10. Lake Anna, Virginia
About a 2-hour drive southwest from Washington, you’ll find one of the largest lakes in Virginia spreading over a scenic 13,000 acres. Once you’ve exhausted all the recreations that a huge lake offers, check out nearby attractions like James Madison’s Montpelier historic mansion, and a number of wineries (our favorite is Barboursville).
11. Deep Creek Lake, Maryland
While its location amidst a mountainous region is ideal for four seasons of activity, we are charmed by the sheer variety of summertime options at this iconic lake. The largest freshwater lake in Maryland, it was originally created by an electric company dam in the 1920s. Since it became open to the public, the offerings have grown to include boat, jet ski, and tube rentals as well as nearby park attractions like ziplining, and kayaking and rafting at nearby rivers. Many of the businesses and restaurants lining the lake offer docks for convenience. If you grow tired of the water, explore by land across more than a dozen nearby state parks!
12. Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
In the Roanoke Region, lying amongst the Blue Ridge Mountains, is another manmade lake that just celebrated its 55th birthday. It has all the family favorites for a day of fun on the water, and many services and restaurants accessible by water for whatever you may need. Glancing around, you will also see a decent amount of undeveloped waterfront compared to other lakes. A fun piece of trivia: in the 1991 movie What About Bob? starring Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss, this lake was actually used in the filming (although in the movie, they say they are at Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire).
13. Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland
Nestled in the scenic Catoctin Mountains, this beautiful park’s crowning feature is its scenic falls. Take a load off by the lake or go for a hike to get to the falls. The park is divided into two areas; the Hunting Creek Lake, falls, and camping are located in the William Houck Area and in the Manor Area you’ll find the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping, and a bit of history. With an abundance of outdoor recreation and fabulous views wherever you go, Cunningham Falls might be your new favorite place.
14. Greenbriar State Park, Maryland
Make your way about 1.5 hours from D.C. to some of the most beautiful water you can find in the Greater Washington area. Greenbrier State Park provides an enjoyable mix of uses through 42-acres and even includes part of the Appalachian Trail. Whether you’re into water recreation or looking for a leisurely picnic spot outside the city, your expectations will surely be exceeded.
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Enjoy a day trip to Middleburg Virginia
As you may know, Middleburg is known as the “Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital” for its foxhunting, steeplechases, and large estates. Middleburg is also known for its small-town charm and local wineries. So come explore this historic town for a day or for a weekend, like Jackie Kennedy used to do!
If you’re hungry from traveling, check out local favorites Red Horse Tavern or Middleburg Common Grounds to grab a bite to eat.
Wineries & Vineyards
Photo courtesy of: Green Hill Winery & Vineyard
If you are a wine aficionado or enjoy charcuterie boards with a view then you are going to want to visit the wineries and vineyards listed below:
- Green Hill Winery & Vineyard
- Artemisia Farm & Vineyard
- Boxwood Estate Winery
- 50 West Vineyards
- Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg
- Chrysalis Vineyards
Local Shops
Photo courtesy of: The Hepburn
Middleburg has many shops that cater to its sophisticated clientele. You can find everything from one-of-a-kind jewelry, to antiques, to horse feed and equestrian gear, fashion forward outfits, and more.
Crème de la Crème
Photo courtesy of: Crème de la Crème
Upon entering one of our boutiques your Crème de la Crème experience will begin with the lingering scent of our signature candles. As you wander through the store, each turn will lead you to discover unique yet useful finds, like this JM Piers Orange H Card Box.
Tri-County Feeds, Fashions, Finds
Photo courtesy of: Tri-County Feeds, Fashions, Finds
Stop by and pick up today’s most fashionable equestrian gear that will make you stand out in front of all the judges when competing!
Chloe’s Boutique
Photo courtesy of: Chloe’s Boutique
Chloe’s offers classic and fashion-forward apparel, accessories and gifts at affordable prices that you will love to enjoy.
The Paradise Antiques
Photo courtesy of: The Paradise Antiques
Check out the fabulous antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces to bring the spirit of Middleburg into your home.
After you grab a bite to eat, visit a winery, and go shopping, and realize that Middleburg could be the perfect place for you to put down roots or invest in a vacation home, make sure to reach out to McEnearney Associates to get the process started of calling Middleburg home.
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What you need to know about Backyard Chickens in the DMV
Recently, I was out shoe shopping — if you know me, you likely know that I have a slight penchant for shoes — and while I was waiting to try on my size of the most perfect nude color shoe with just the right amount of brushed gold, my phone buzzed with the best kind of message: a referral!
“Family moving in from the West Coast,” read the text. “Oh! And they are moving with a 30’ RV and 6 chickens.” Surely – this must not be right. Have you met me?
The message continued: “You are exactly the Realtor to help this family.”
My mind was racing. Really? Me?? How does one sashay through acreage(s) of land in elegant shoes?
Fortunately, my referral source had more faith in me than I did. (Public Announcement: “My business is solely based on referrals”… Do read more about my methodology on smattam.com.)
So, while this referral was far from “the norm” for me, I was thrilled that my referrer trusted in my ability to successfully find this client the perfect home for them, their precious feathered friends + their RV. New shoes in hand, I began digging into the rules and laws surrounding keeping backyard chickens in each of the Washington metro area counties.
Disclaimer: This blog is based on my research and my understanding. It would be wise for you to call the necessary County/City/State to verify information. Clearly, I’m saving up for more shoes and could do without litigation, thank you.
My research with each of the counties in Virginia was within a 45- 60 minute commute time (OR 3 hours depending on the alignment of the sun or moon) from DC.
Fairfax County:
“Fairfax County residents who live on a property of more than 2 acres can keep chickens as an accessory use – no permit or special permission required…If your property is less than 2 acres, there is still a way to legally keep chickens. You must obtain a special permit from the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning to allow backyard chicken keeping on your property.” Source: fairfaxcounty.gov
A call to the Fairfax County zoning and Ordinance department (703-324-1314) verified this, and they confirmed the requirement for a minimum of 2 acres. But, wait—there was more.
“Fowl, such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese, may only be kept on lots that are two acres or greater. They shall not exceed the ratio of one bird unit per one acre, with a bird unit defined as: 32 chickens = 1 bird unit.” Source: fairfaxcounty.gov
That just seems like a LOT of fowl for a backyard!
Prince William County:
Do you know that PW instituted a DFOD back in 2011? You don’t know what a DFOD is? Why, the Domestic Fowl Overlay District, of course! In areas of the DFOD that are zoned A-1 with a minimum of one acre, chickens are allowed. Fabulous! How does one find out if a particular address is within the DFOD and zoned appropriately? This took an email and a call to the planning office to resolve. The message I received is included below, but first, here are a few resources I found tremendously helpful in determining the regulations for Prince William:
- Prince William Creates Chicken District (The Washington Post)
- How to Lookup if Chickens allowed at Your House in Prince William County (Green Risks blog, Elizabeth Ward)
- Prince William Co. Real Estate Assessments
This was the email I received from PW’s planning office:
“You need to turn on the zoning layer as well as the domestic fowl overlay district layer. Under the identify button (the one which is the white/grey “I” in a black circle), you need to turn on the zoning, parcel, and domestic fowl overlay district layer labels. When you click the parcel, under the results information on the right you well see data entries. If nothing is listed for the domestic fowl overlay district, it is outside the zoning district. If you have further questions as how to use the County Mapper, please reach out to the GTS department at (703) 792-6840 or pwcmaps@pwcgov.org.”
And here is the link to the map to DFOD.
Loudoun County:
“In Loudoun County, anyone who lives on a property smaller than five acres must get the approval of the Soil and Water Conservation District to raise poultry.” (Source: Loudoun Soil & Water Conservation District)
I found this detailed article from the Washington Post about backyard hens to be tremendously helpful.
While this article was primarily meant for Northern Virginians, my curiosity got the better of me & I decided to research DC & Montgomery County, MD
Washington, DC:
It would seem that DC does NOT allow chickens. But, then again – I could be wrong. Yup! It was that unclear. I came across this cheeky opinion article from 2017 which I just had to share.
Montgomery County:
It would seem that Montgomery County is THE most chicken friendly region in the DC Metro area from this webpage about Backyard Chickens on montgomerycountymd.gov.
One final note: Regardless of county regulations, HOA restrictions ALWAYS rule! So be sure to check with the homeowner association’s covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs).
Whether or not you have backyard fowls of your own, I’m here to help you wade through all the questions and logistics that can arise when searching for your perfect home in VA or MD. And if you are looking for land for your chickens, I promise I will invest in more flats.
Shirley Mattam-Male is a licensed real estate agent in Virginia and Maryland with the McLean office of McEnearney Associates, Inc. Her local knowledge and expertise has successfully helped clients buy and sell homes for more than 16 years. Contact Shirley at smattam@mcenearney.com or visit her website smattam.com.
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How will rising mortgage rates and low inventory affect buyers and sellers in the Washington Metro region?
For the last 24 months, the DC region’s real estate market has been the hottest we’ve seen in our 42 years in business. Fueled by record-low interest rates and record-low inventory, empowered buyers were chasing the relatively few homes on the market, driving prices higher. It was an incredible time to be a seller, a perhaps frustrating time for buyers — and it couldn’t last forever.
Rapidly rising mortgage rates combined with higher home prices mean that homes are roughly 30% less affordable today than this time last year, and it is clearly having an impact on contract activity. This means that sellers will have to adjust their expectations a bit, as there will simply be fewer buyers — especially first-time buyers who are most affected by higher rates. There won’t be as many multiple offers and homes will likely stay on the market longer. There still isn’t enough supply to meet even this lower demand, and it may take as long as another two years to get to a true balance between supply and demand. The important thing to remember is that this re-balancing in no way should cause worry about a crash. We’re talking about slowing price growth to normal levels of 3% – 5%.
30-year fixed mortgage interest rates have jumped two full percentage points in the last four months, from 3% to more than 5%, and that undoubtedly puts a pinch on homebuyers in what is still a very competitive sellers’ market. But as surprising and as swift as that rise has been, bear in mind that the average rate over the last 32 years is 6% – and it has been as high as 10.5% during that period of time.
The decision to purchase a home is personal, and shouldn’t be based on trying to “time” the market. Buy when you’re ready to buy. We know there is concern that rising rates will bring home prices down, and while it is absolutely true that buying activity will lessen because of higher rates, the biggest challenge in the market is the lack of inventory, not the lack of buyers. This spring, most of the region had less than a half-month supply – and we usually think of 3-to-6 months’ supply as balanced. Don’t defer a purchase decision because you’re waiting for prices to come down. The pace of rising home prices will ease in the face of lower demand, but they will still rise.
Your choice of an experienced Realtor and Loan Officer are key to navigating the changing market. If you are ready to buy or sell a home, reach out to a McEnearney Associate today for exceptional service. We are the trusted real estate resource throughout the DC metro area.
David Howell, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, of McEnearney Associates Realtors®
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What sort of previous experience do I need to become a real estate agent?
Answer: I knew I wanted to be in real estate when I was in college, and a young agent was extremely uncommon. For that reason, I went into the hotel business, was a meeting planner, and sold promotional products before I started my fourth career.
Now, we are seeing new agents right out of school (or soon thereafter) — especially when other members of their family are in the industry. I am thrilled to have been contacted by a senior from Alexandria City High School who wanted to intern with an agent as part of her Senior Experience. She will be heading off to Virginia Tech in the fall to major in Environmental Economics; however, as one of her first careers, she would like to take part in real estate.
We have attended McEnearney’s business meetings, training sessions, open houses, closings, and she even already met with our recruiter!
According to Effirata Berasu, “Working with Lisa has been the best experience to learn about the world of real estate!”
Quite a few agents are like me in that they have been in one or more fields prior to entering real estate. I always like to ask my fellow agents what they did before they got into the business. In addition to previous sales roles, you would be surprised at some of the other answers, such as bankers, attorneys, teachers, nurses, photographers, writers, engineers, interior designers, construction contractors, home inspectors, technology fields, landscapers, and so many more.
For me, my previous experience taught me to be a collaborator, a good listener, a creative resource, and a detail-oriented professional. Others bring skills from their former lives that they continue to use, allowing for the right agent for everyone.
Since buying or selling a house can be extremely stressful, it is important to work with someone that is the right fit for you and your lifestyle or personality. Select an agent that makes you feel comfortable.
We just had a workshop on different personality styles and how they work with other similar or entirely different types of people. It was interesting to identify the traits for the “power,” “party,” “peace,” and “perfection” categories. Are they risk takers that are more bottom-line oriented? Or people that don’t like change and, therefore, are slower in making decisions? Do they rely on the present, future, or need information from the past to establish their next steps? Is data a key factor, or do they count on a gut reaction?
I love the testimonial from a client that chose to work with me after interviewing several other agents.
“Lisa is a joy to work with and is highly flexible and collaborative. Her ability to use the latest marketing technology effectively brought us a buyer in two days. Her warm personality and excellent interpersonal skills turned a stressful time into a truly enjoyable experience. Our thanks and appreciation for Lisa as a partner in selling our home in Old Town Alexandria.” – Jasper Womach and Marilynne Black
When people ask me how they can get started, I share my personal experience. Before I was licensed, I went to 5-10 open houses every weekend to learn about neighborhoods, price ranges, home styles, staging, and how the agents interacted with the attendees. When I became an agent, I worked 39 out of 52 weekends holding open houses for other agents until I established my own listings. In addition to the post-licensing education that is required once you pass your test and “hang” your license with a firm, I did my best to attend as many workshops and training sessions as possible in order to hit the ground running. Having a designated McEnearney mentor for my first 6 months allowed me to gain real-life knowledge from an extremely experienced and well-respected agent. We continue to collaborate and even share a storage unit for our staging items.
My best advice for a new agent is to ask questions!
Good luck!
Lisa Groover is a licensed real estate agent with McEnearney Associates, Inc. in Old Town Alexandria, VA. As an active member of the community since 1989, Lisa specializes in Alexandria, and is thrilled to have the opportunity to work closely with her friends, neighbors, former clients, and their referrals.
In addition to enjoying the Old Town lifestyle and the art related events and activities, she is a member of a number of volunteer organizations. Having had eight Golden Retrievers, she is dedicated to helping other dog owners through the challenges of renting, buying and selling their home.
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Top Rated Outdoor Hikes in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia
Spring is officially here, so let’s get outdoors and stretch our legs after a long winter spent inside. The DMV offers a diversity of trails and parks to explore. Some are maintained by county, city, or state governments while others are part of the National Park Service. So grab your camera and binoculars and share your adventures with family and friends.
If you do decide to hike trails that are part of the National Park Service, you can visit their website for more information on Current Conditions in the National Capital Area parks.
A great resource for discovering new trails, the popular website All Trails also has an app for your phone which will help you stay on track when exploring — and with off-route notifications, you’ll never miss a turn. No cell service? No problem. Download offline maps or print a backup copy.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Theodore Roosevelt Island
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
In the 1930s, Mason’s Island was transformed into a living memorial to America’s 26th president. Today miles of trails through wooded uplands and swampy bottomlands draw hikers to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Park is accessed from the Virginia side of the Potomac River along the GW Memorial Parkway.
Rock Creek Park
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
This 1,754-acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, and wild animals. Some roads are closed on the weekends for the enjoyment of park visitors. Along with two main trails, which are primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips, there are playgrounds, sports fields, and historic sites. Dogs are allowed on trails, but must be kept on leash.
- Western Ridge Trail – 8.9 miles/moderate
- Valley Trail – 10.8 miles/moderate
- Boulder Bridge Loop – 3 miles/easy
Glover-Archbold Trail
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Although not directly adjacent, Glover-Archbold Park is part of Rock Creek Park, along with Meridian Hill Park and Dumbarton Oaks Park. Easily accessible, the Glover-Archbold Trail is a great spot for picnicking and running. 5.7 miles/easy
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Explore 3.5 miles of paved trail in Anacostia Park! The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is great for a casual stroll, a jog, a bike ride, or a dog walk. Along the way, you’ll experience views of the Anacostia River and its wildlife, or maybe join a pick-up game on one of the playing fields or courts. The paved walkway continues across the bridges into downtown D.C. with access to the Navy Yard and Capitol Hill neighborhoods.
Capital Crescent Trail – DC & Maryland
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
The Capital Crescent Trail (CCT) is a rail-trail, built upon the former railbed of the 11 mile Georgetown Branch of the B&O Railroad. The Trail is complete as a hard surface asphalt trail from Georgetown to Bethesda, with 6 bridges and a tunnel offering users gentle gradients, with grade-separated crossings at most (all but 2) roadways.
MARYLAND
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal at Great Falls
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
The C&O Canal operated for nearly 100 years along 184.5 miles of the Potomac river. On the Maryland side of Great Falls, there are more than half a dozen trails and paths. Section A of the Billy Goat Trail, one of the most popular in the DC area, offers a more challenging hike.
Greenbelt Park – Greenbelt
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
With more than nine miles of trails, this park is also Metro accessible! Also a popular site for bird watching and affordable camping only 12 miles from DC.
VIRGINIA
Great Falls Park – McLean
Trail Map | Facebook | Instagram
At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The park offers many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from Washington, DC. Trail lengths range from 1.8-3.2 miles.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve – McLean
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is part of the Potomac Gorge and offers a variety of opportunities from gentle trails that wind quietly through the forest to others that require hiking up and down precipitously steep hills and cliffs. The rugged terrain is part of the park’s charm.
Mount Vernon District Park – Alexandria
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Mount Vernon District Park is a 1.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located in Belle View. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and mountain biking and is good for all skill levels. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Mount Vernon Trail – Alexandria
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Winding along the Potomac River, the Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved, multi-use trail that stretches from George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. It connects with regional trails, including the Potomac Heritage, Custis, Rock Creek, Four Mile Run, and Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trails. Popular with runners, walkers, and cyclists, the skyline views of Washington, DC are beautiful.
Jones Point Park – Alexandria
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Looking for a short, easy walk in a beautiful setting? Try Jones Point Park located on the Potomac River, just south of Old Town. It was a critical piece of the city of Alexandria’s history as one of the largest centers for shipping, manufacturing, and transportation in the nation. Its lighthouse, built in 1855, is the last remaining riverine lighthouse in Virginia.
Four Mile Run Trail – Arlington
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Four Mile Run Trail traverses the Four Mile Run stream valley and has many twists and turns, not to mention steep sections (mercifully short). The trail more or less parallels the popular W&OD Trail, connecting to it in several places. At 15.2 miles, this heavily trafficked, out and back trail is primarily used for walking, running, and road biking. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Meadowlark Connector Trail – Vienna
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook | Instagram
Only 1.25 miles long, this is a paved trail that leaves from Meadowlark Botanical Gardens and gets to the W&OD Trail. About half of this trail is on a path and the other half on the road. But, you can spend the day checking out the gardens and also get in a great hike. In fact, take as long a hike as you want.
Bull Run Regional Park – Centreville
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
There are three trails in this 1,500-acre Northern Virginia Park and a variety of other activities to get you outdoors including camping, cabin rentals, picnic areas, even a waterpark. The miles of scenic and historic trails are perfect for hiking and horseback riding.
- Bull Run Occoquan Trail – 19.7 miles
- Bluebell Trail – 1.5 miles
- White Trail – 2.5 miles
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck – Lorton
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
In the early 1960s a developer sought out land on Mason Neck to build a planned community and airport. Elizabeth van Laer Speer Hartwell, a local resident, who valued the pristine nature of the peninsula, organized an effort to stop this development. She recognized the potential of the Mason Neck peninsula as a safe haven for the endangered bald eagles along the Potomac River. The Woodmarsh Trail is a 3-mile circuit through mature forest with a sweeping view of the 250-acre Great Marsh.
Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve – Leesburg
Trail Map | Directions | Facebook
Banshee Reeks is a Loudoun County nature preserve which ensures that plants, animals, habitats and cultural resources are protected. There are 20 miles of well-marked trails to explore on 695 acres including Goose Creek, wetlands, grass trails, open fields, wooded areas, and mountain views.
W&OD Trail – Purcellville to Arlington
Trail Map – Print PDF | Directions | Facebook
Often called the skinniest park in Virginia, Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Railroad Regional Park is a paved trail between Purcellville and Shirlington along the former railroad roadbed. While many people are searching for peace and quiet, you can also start the 45-mile trail in the countryside and head into the suburban and urban centers. Equestrians can ride the adjacent 32-mile gravel horse trail. The W&OD trail has multiple parking areas, enabling you to jump on and off the trail at various points.
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