What does the modern buyer want in 2026? If this month’s new listings are any indication, the answer is: everything. We are seeing a beautiful shift toward homes that balance grand scale with intimate, functional details – think 12-foot waterfall islands, spa-inspired primary suites, and lower levels that function as fully private secondary residences. From the "Beverley Hills" charm of Alexandria to the mountain views of Waterford, these May debuts are setting a new standard for design and craftsmanship. Dive in to explore the details of these five standout properties.
1538 Forest Lane, McLean, VA
This rare Barrett new construction in Chesterbrook Woods is thoughtfully designed and beautifully built with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Offering 8,614 finished square feet, seven bedrooms, six full and one half baths, and a three-car side-entry garage, this home was designed to feel warm, functional, and exceptional in everyday life. The main level is compelling, with a chef’s kitchen, sunlit breakfast room, inviting casual spaces, formal dining room, screened porch with fireplace, and a true mudroom. Also on the main level, the primary suite is paired with a private walkout to the rear yard, a custom-built dressing room, and a spa bath designed to feel refined, comfortable, and beautifully livable. Upstairs, additional bedroom suites and flexible living spaces offer the versatility today’s buyers want, while the finished walkout lower level lives like a second residence, with expansive entertaining space, a custom bar, a wine room, an exercise room, and guest accommodations. The backyard offers the potential for a pool, outdoor entertaining, and a truly special private retreat.
Listed by: Taylor Chamberlin
8165 River Road, Bethesda, MD
Located discreetly at the quiet rear of Quarry Springs, this luxury townhome is the epitome of refined, maintenance-free living. Professionally decorated, this residence showcases upgrades throughout, including an extensive home technology system. The Kalorama model offers entry through a charming foyer or through the attached two-car garage. Main level features an exquisite office or guest bedroom, powder room, mudroom, and private elevator servicing all four floors. The second floor unveils a gourmet kitchen complete with a 12-foot waterfall island, premium appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a separate bar area with a wine cooler and icemaker. Dramatic 10-foot ceilings, wide plank hardwood floors, and a gas fireplace exude modern elegance. This level also includes an airy dining area, a sweeping living room, and a second powder room. Upstairs, discover a serene primary suite with an ensuite bath and two custom walk-in closets. Two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a laundry room with storage complete the third floor. Entertain effortlessly both indoors and out on the fourth-floor rooftop retreat with a spacious family/TV room with retractable glass doors leading to two separate terraces. A wet bar and gas fireplace add to the ambience. Quarry Springs offers incomparable amenities, including a 24/7 staffed security gate, a 10,000 sq ft clubhouse with pool, hot tub, yoga studio, fitness center, and outdoor fire pit. Residents appreciate the beautifully landscaped grounds, including the Waterfall Rock Garden Park.
Listed by: Mary Beth Taylor
504 Kentucky Avenue, Alexandria, VA
Experience a masterclass in design in this thoughtfully expanded and renovated five-bedroom, five-bathroom sanctuary by renowned local builder Morris Construction. The main level radiates with natural light, showcasing a seamless flow between the gourmet kitchen (amazing 48-inch range and fabulous island space), open dining area, and expansive family room. Practicality meets style with a custom-built mudroom and a versatile main-level guest suite, which is perfect for a secluded home office or hosting overnight guests. The upper level is a private retreat, featuring a spacious primary suite with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired en-suite. The two additional bedrooms on this floor enjoy their own baths, ensuring effortless privacy for family or guests. Downstairs, the finished lower level offers an expansive recreation room, ideal for a home cinema, gym, or play space, alongside a fifth bedroom, full bathroom, and significant storage. Enter from the driveway for convenience – an additional mudroom area is located here. Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined street just blocks from "The Pit" and moments from Shirlington and Del Ray, this home offers an elevated lifestyle with an unbeatable commute to DC and the Pentagon. You will love living in Beverley Hills!
Listed by: Jen Walker Team
42165 Black Walnut Lane, Leesburg, VA
The extraordinary historic estate on 30 acres is perched to capture spectacular eastern views, unforgettable sunrises, and sweeping vistas stretching to Sugarloaf Mountain. With origins dating back to circa 1820, the original log home has been thoughtfully restored and expanded, creating a perfect blend of coziness, character, and modern comfort. The main residence features five bedrooms, three full and one half baths, including a new three-level addition. The luxurious primary suite boasts a stunning spa-like bath and a walk-in closet with a convenient washer/dryer. The beautifully updated kitchen showcases custom cabinetry, a copper farmhouse sink, granite and butcher block counters, and opens seamlessly to a dramatic family/dining room with a wall of windows and wood-burning fireplace. A charming and private in-law apartment, located in a wing of the original log home, offers exceptional flexibility, complete with its own entrance, kitchen, full bath, loft bedroom, and fireplace. The walkout lower level adds even more versatility with a home office, gym, craft room, second laundry, and access to a brick patio with a fire pit. Outside, the land is as impressive as the home. A picturesque mix of open pasture, woods, and a spring-fed, stocked pond with a dock and private beach creates a truly idyllic setting. Approximately 9 acres are fenced for livestock, complemented by electric fencing, three automatic waterers, and run-in sheds. Equestrian and agricultural enthusiasts will appreciate the award-winning, Fuog-built bank barn (2022), designed for both function and beauty.
Listed by: Suzanne Ager
15117 Grace Place, Waterford, VA
Stunning stone-front home in The Reserves at Wheatlands, perfectly sited beside a scenic horse farm with sweeping mountain views. Step inside to a dramatic two-story foyer filled with natural light, anchored by a grand staircase and rich hardwood floors. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, featuring granite countertops, gas cooking, double wall ovens, stainless steel appliances, custom tile backsplash, and an oversized island with designer pendant lighting. Just off the kitchen, the bump-out morning room offers a bright, spacious eat-in area and opens to the deck that is ideal for relaxed outdoor dining with a view. The oversized family room is a true centerpiece with a stone gas fireplace, six Palladian windows, and a striking reclaimed barn-wood accent wall. A main-level office provides the perfect work-from-home setup, and a full bath on the main level adds flexibility for guests. Upstairs, you’ll find four bedrooms and four full baths, including a spacious primary suite with a spa-like bath offering a soaking tub, a glass-enclosed shower, and dual vanities. The fully finished lower level is a showstopper, complete with engineered hardwood flooring, a gorgeous kitchenette, an eat-in bar, a full bedroom, a full bath, and a space pre-wired for a theater room. Whether you need an in-law suite, au pair suite, guest retreat, or entertaining hub, this level delivers.
Listed by: Ryan Clegg & Megan Clegg
