Gates of McLean

05-01-10 = Gates of McLean Real Estate on the Market

2010-05-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

Right now at the Gates of McLean in Tysons Corner, there are 6 McLean Homes on the market. 5 of those are for rent, while the other 1 is for sale.

Gates of McLean Real Estate (Sales)
Actively on the market there is a One bedroom One bathroom "Shannon" Model in building 1581 on the first floor, asking $275,000. This home has been on the market for 102 days.

Also regarding Gates of McLean home sales, there are 6 properties currently under contract. They are evenly split between 1 bedroom homes and 2 bedroom homes. Asking prices were ranging from $195,000 (short sale) to $229,900 for the Gates of McLean 1 bedroom properties at time of contract. While the Gates of McLean 2 bedrooms ranged from $250,000 (short sale) to $339,888. The Gates of McLean models under contract are = Kendall, Danielle, Shannon, Logan, Preston, and Dalton.

There is definately some good demand right now in the Gates of Mclean, as those properties that are going under contract are doing so relatively quickly. The low interest rates, and tax credit could be factors in this. However, the dominant factor for the Tysons Corner Real Estate sales in the Gates of McLean is probably the proximity to the future metro stop for the Silver Line. There is growing excitement and anticipation now since construction is strongly udner way.

Gates of McLean Real Estate (Rentals)
The 5 properties for rent in this Tysons Corner community are composed of three 1 bedrooms and two 2 bedrooms. All three of the Gates of McLean 1 bedroom rentals are asking $1350 for a monthly rent. While the Gates of McLean 2 bedrooms range from $1,795 to $1,800 for a monthly rent.

There are currently 2 properties in the Gates of McLean that are Application Registered status. One is a 1 bedroom, Danielle model, and the other is a 2 bedroom, Dalton model. At time of application they were asking $1,400/month and $1,700/month respectively.

For more information on Tysons Corner Real Estate and other Tysons Corner Area (McLean + Vienna) goings on also check out = www.AgentKnowsTysonsCorner.com

data from MRIS

www.AgentKnowsTysonsCorner.com

2010-02-01T20:47:00.001-08:00

The most accurate information on The Gates of McLean Real Estate Sales and Tysons Corner Area Real Estate.

www.AgentKnowsTysonsCorner.com

Gates of McLean - Tysons Corner

2009-12-31T14:10:00.000-08:00

For all the latest information, monthly sales updates and more, check out www.AgentKnowsTysonsCorner.com

Gates of McLean sales in July 2009

2009-08-10T18:09:00.001-07:00

1 property sold in the Gates of McLean in Tysosn corner in July 2009. It was a bank owned property on the top floor of building 1580. This property was on the market for 16 days, and it had multiple offers. It was originally asking $190,971, and sold for $193,000 in CASH. The one bedroom one bathroom home was a 642 square foot Chelsea model. There was no seller subsidy to the buyer in this transaction. The price per square foot was $300.62.

July of 2009 compared very poorly in terms of number of transactions to the same month last year (July 2008). In July 2008 there were 7 home sold. Although it was only one property this past month (July 2009) we did have improvements in both areas of price per square foot and days on market average where last year they had $293.27 and 67.5 respectively.

In July 2009 there were also 7 homes that rented. They ranged from a low of a $1,200 a month for a one bedroom one bathroom to a high of $1,550 for a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom.

Right now there are 10 properties available at the Gates of McLean. 2 of those are for sale, both are one bedrooms in Garden style buildings. The other 8 properties are rentals. Here is a graphic of all of them =

data from MRIS

May 2009 Gates of McLean Sales Re-cap

2009-06-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

In May of 2009 2 homes SOLD. There was a two bedroom that sold and also a one bedroom that sold.

The two bedroom was a Dalton Model. At time of contract it had been asking $319,000. They Sold for $279,000 with no seller subsidy. This is 87% of asking price. This property was credit union owned, or what could and is also referred to as a foreclosure or bank owned property. The property was on the market for 76 days. When it listed they were asking $339,000.

The one bedroom that sold was a "normal" or "traditional" sale. The asking price was $220,000 and it sold for $220,000 with $3,000 in seller subsidy. It was a top floor Danielle model that was very well taken care of.

Here is the virtual tour so you can take a look --> http://www.homevisit.com/mlsTour?ver=1&id=37394

Last year in the same month, May 2008, there were also 2 properties SOLD. They were both two bedrooms. They sold for $365,000 (Logan Model) and $320,000 (Dalton Model).

Right now there are 4 properties on the market. Three of them seem to be traditional sales. The fourth is a short sale. See below:

In the Gates of McLean in May of 2009 5 properties were rented. Three were one bedrooms, and the other two were two bedrooms. The average one bedroom rental was $1,180/month. The average two bedroom rental was $1,675/month. Here is a visual:

Last year in May, May 2008, there were only 3 properties rented. The two bedroom (1) price was $1,695/month. While the one bedroom (2) average was $1,300/month.

Right now there are 16 properties available for rent at the Gates of McLean. There are 7 one bedrooms available, 6 two bedrooms, and 3 three bedrooms. They range in asking price from $1,225/month to $2,400/month.

Data from MRIS

1Sale in Gates in April 2009

2009-05-15T05:53:00.000-07:00

Just like the title of this post says, there was one SOLD property in the Gates of McLean in 2009. It was a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom property in building 1570. That is a Mid-Rise building with garage parking. This property had 1 garage parking and 1 assigned out door parking space. So a total of 2 parking spaces. This is definately a plus. The home was also very nicely appointed with upgraded flooring, cabinetry, and countertops. There was also the benefit of not facing the parking lot, as half the homes do. This home faced into the courtyard, and was even somewhat protected by some mature trees to give you a private feel.

Click here for your exclusive view of the virtual tour

So now to what you really care about, the money. The home sold for $335,900 and no subsidy. It was on the market for a total of 18 days. This is great considering that the Gates of McLean average days on market for the past year for the SOLD properties is 56 days.

There is still plenty more on the market right now at the Gates. In fact, there are 7 other properties available for sale. 4 of these are one bedrooms (asking $219,950 to $267,900), and the other 3 are two bedrooms (asking $309,000 to $329,000).

1 Sold property in April this year (2009) is keeping pace with April of last year (2008). As there was only one sold property in that same month last year. May may be a little better as there are 2 properties under contract right now.

Supply + Demand - The demand is there!

2009-04-23T18:59:00.001-07:00

Supply and Demand, an age old economic concept. It's in effect everywhere you look. Especially here at the Gates of McLean.

One property goes under contract tonight in just 8 days. This is while 6 others are still available after having been on the market for 7, 40, 60, 156, 273, 768 days.

I saw demand first hand this past Saturday. 30 people came through an open house for a 1 bedroom condo on a beautiful day from 1-4pm. Priced well, and in good condition, with good exposure, and the right access, and any property will sell. 4 key factors. I saw them in action. This property was priced well. It was staged, painted, and improved. It was made known on many different mediums, and access was there. And now it's under contract.

This great community has many wonderful features. There are lots of amenities, from a pumped up (pun intended) fitness center to an amazing location. The board really cares, and is committed. Do I need to mention the metro. Well I will. It will be a block away. That's the closest proximity of any residential location in Tysons Corner area. There's plenty of appeal. That translates to reasons for demand. All you need is the right supply.

It's the same in any market - Supply + Demand. Happening in a neighborhood near you!

1st Quarter 2009 Home Sales re-cap

2009-04-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

What happened in the first quarter of 2009 in the Gates of McLean? The good news is that there were 4 SOLD properties. Those properties were actively on the market an average of 53 days, and they sold for an average of -5.42% (that minus in front means negative). There was also an average of $500 seller subsidy (also referred to as closing cost help from seller to buyer).

What types of sales were these 4 transactions?

Regular Sale = 2

Short Sale = 0

Bank Owned Property = 2

What style homes were these 4 properties?

1 Bedroom = 1 (Danielle)

2 Bedroom = 2 (Logan + Dalton)

3 Bedroom = 1 (Christine Model)

How does this compare to the same time last year?

Last year there were only 3 properties sold in the same time period. And they sold for an average of -6.5% (yes, also negative) of their list price, in an average of 85 days on the market. They also had an average of $1333.33 in seller subsidy. So you could say that things are picking up considering the same time comparison to last year. Let's hope that trend continues!

Below is a graphic of the sold properties I've mentioned, plus those that did not sell, and those that are under contract, or for sale right now at the Gates of McLean.

(Data is from MRIS and represents multiple listings from multiple brokers)

Buy it now! 3rd floor Preston Model

2009-03-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Why commute? This home is right where it's at in the heart of the area's #1 job center. And if you don't work here, it's easy access to 495, 66, 123, 7, 267, MD, DC, New Harris Teeter Grocery, Future Metro (1 block) and many other places in the DC metro area.
This 2 bedroom 2 bathroom home is on the third floor of a secure four floor building. It's situated in a Gated community. So there is prestige and security. This is the largest true 2 bedroom model in a secure/mid-rise building.

The home has many upgrades throughout: wood style flooring in the hall, dining, and living areas; ceramic tile in the foyer, kitchen, and both bathrooms; crown molding in a variety of locations, 2 walk-in closets, an expansive deck, large bedrooms, a gas fireplace, granite counters in the kitchen + both bathrooms, maple cabinetry with fine hardware, and the list goes on and on. Off the living room there is a long deck. This property style is one of the only two models in the community that has a true extra storage closet on the deck. The property also boasts 2 assigned parking spaces, one of which is garage.

The community has a lot of pluses as well: fitness center, basketball, bbq area, outdoor fitness trail, clubhouse with great room, movie room, outdoor pool, sauna, car wash area, playground, grassy common area, and secure gates.

View photos
http://picasaweb.google.com/AgentKnows/1570SpringGateDrive7308McLeanVA22102?feat=directlink

For more information, or to see this fine property:

Jeff Wu
Weichert, Realtors
240-994-7938
Licensed VA + MD
AgentKnowsHomes.com
Jeff@AgentKnowsHomes.com
Equal Housing Opportunity

Metro Full Funding Approved!

2009-03-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Today I, along with many others probably, received the below letter =

"March 10, 2009

Today, the Chairman of the Airports Authority Board of Directors, H.R. Crawford, signed a Full Funding Grant Agreement for the Dulles Metrorail Extension. In a ceremony with the U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, Chairman Crawford noted that this grant in the amount of $900 million will enable the Airports Authority to begin the long-awaited construction of the Dulles Metrorail Extension.As you know, achieving this milestone is the culmination of years of planning and public process that has involved many individuals from our state and local governments, the business community, and our elected officials.Our local project partners, the Commonwealth of Virginia, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, the Town of Herndon and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority are committed to bringing major transportation and economic benefits to the Dulles Corridor and to our Washington Metropolitan Region.I want to thank you for your strong commitment to bringing rail to the Dulles Corridor and all your efforts in this cause. Without your support, particularly in recent years, this day would not have come.The Airports Authority looks forward to continuing our partnership and excellent working relationship with you as we move forward on the Project. We are ready to go to work and we will continue to look for your involvement.We hope you will be able to join us later this spring when we have a kick-off event to celebrate the long awaited start of construction.

Sincerely,

James E. BennettPresident and CEOMetropolitan Washington Airports Authority"

2 Sold and Settled in February (09)

2009-03-06T12:22:00.000-08:00

The Gates of McLean had 2 properties that Sold in February of 2009. That's a 100% increase vs. the 1 of the same month last year (08). So, definately good news on increasing transactions.

The properties themselves were very different. One was a 3 bedroom, Christine model, in building 1530. It was located on the 2nd floor. That property was asking $374,900 and ending up settling for $354,750. It was a cash transaction.

The other property that sold was a one bedroom, Danielle model, which is the largest you'll find in a secure building(1581). This property was also on the 2nd floor. The property was a bank owned property, also referred to as an REO. It was asking $199,900 and settled for $195,000. It sold rather quickly, being on the market only 23 days.

(data from MRIS)

Major Construction to begin

2009-02-27T08:01:00.000-08:00

SAVE THE DATE!MAJOR CONSTRUCTION BEGINS IN TYSONS THIS SPRINGOn Route 123, Route 7, Dulles Toll Road, and the Capital Beltway

You're Invited to"Keep Tysons Moving"An Executive Business Briefing on the Capital Beltway HOT Lanes and Dulles Corridor Metrorail Projects

Thursday, March 26, 20097:30AM - Registration8:00AM - Presentation9:00AM - Workshop: Employer/Commuting SolutionsCapital One1680 Capital One DriveMcLean, VA 22102-3491(703) 720-1000

HOSTED BY:Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)Metropolitan Washington Airports AuthorityVirginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT)Fairfax County Department of TransportationTysons Transportation Association (TYTRAN)Fairfax County Chamber of CommerceFairfax County Economic Development AuthorityVisit Fairfax (FXVA)Fluor-TransurbanDulles Transit PartnersBriefing will include:Construction Schedules and Potential Traffic Impacts Resources for Employers & CommutersAnd much more!!

RSVP at outreach@virginiahotlanes.com or (877) 495-VDOT

Wood floors = Rent it now

2009-02-22T07:58:00.000-08:00

End unit condo in secure building in a gated community. Enjoy your wood floors through entire home. Fill up the walk-in closet in the bedroom. Bask in the outdoors on your deck. Experience the ease of cooking with your built in microwave. Be glad you have a washer and dryer in your home. Wash up in your upgraded bathroom. Enjoy life!

Plus enjoy the amenities = clubhouse, outdoor pool, party room, movie room, fitness center, sauna, car wash area, playground, fitness trail, basketball, bbq area, and more!

Plus enjoy the location = Tysons Corner, not far from brand new Harris Teeter, will be a block away from a brand new metro station (completion date not yet known), and close to major roads: 123, 66, 495, 7, 267, MD, DC, and more!

Lots of photos = http://picasaweb.google.com/AgentKnows/1571SpringGateDrive6316FORRENT?feat=directlink

For more information or to schedule a showing, contact:

Jeff Wu
Tysons Corner Specialist
Weichert, Realtors
AgentKnowsHomes.com
703-938-6070x198
240-994-7938
Jeff@AgentKnowsHomes.com
Licensed in VA + MD
Equal Housing Opportunity

One Bedroom for Rent

2009-01-24T16:40:00.000-08:00

Gates of McLean One Bedroom One Bathroom For RENT! It will be available to move-in 2/1/09. This great home has real wood floors, is at the end of the hall (so only neighbors on one side), and has a beautiful wooded view. There are real wood floors throughout the entire home. The bedroom has a walk-in closet. Plus there is upgraded lighting throughout, including dimmers. Relax on the balcony, or inside in style. Your car will be taken care of as well, as there is a garage parking.

For more information or to schedule a showing, Contact =

$1275/month
you pay your own gas and electric

Jeff Wu
Weichert, Realtors
703-938-6070 x198
240-994-7938
Jeff@AgentKnowsHomes.com
Licensed in Virginia and Maryland
Equal Housing Opportunity

Gates of McLean - December (2008) Recap

2009-01-02T19:21:00.000-08:00

What happened in the Gates of McLean in December of 2008? Well in terms of Real Estate, here's a recap:

There was 1 SOLD property, and 0 (zero) properties that RENTED.

The property that SOLD was a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom Preston model. This is the biggest 2 bedroom in the mid-rise buildings (see earlier blog if not sure about mid-rise vs. garden style building). This home sold for $$317,000 with a subsidy of $8,000. So an effective net price to the seller of $309,000. Coincidentally this was a bank owned property.

The lack of rental activity is not suprising. December is one of the most unappealing months to move, as people don't often like to move: a) during the winter, or b) close to the holidays. One would think that in a community of so many homes, and 40+ being rented each year, that there would be at least one rented in December. However, in the same month last year, 2007, there were also 0 (zero) RENTED properties.

(data from MRIS)

No FHA

2008-12-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

I showed a property for sale today. Regardless if my client liked it or not (Which they did). The listing agent said no FHA contracts. That sounds pretty silly. Especially considering that the FHA loan is the bulk of the loans going through these days. It was a bank owned property that was relatively well priced. The listing agent told me that the seller, the bank, didn't want to take the property off the market for an FHA loan/contract that wouldn't happen. He said the community wasn't FHA approved. He is right. It isn't. But there are always exceptions. I know good loan officers who have worked hard to get spot approvals on individual cases. In this community, The Gates of McLean, this seller believs that the high investor ratios of the community prohibit FHA loans from being approved. This is a challenge I've alluded to briefly in a past blog on 9/23/08 "Guilty Party or Victim of the System" (http://gatesofmclean.blogspot.com/2008/09/guilty-party-or-victim-of-system.html).
Now it is a very real problem.

Available in February = 3 Bedroom for Rent

2008-12-14T09:51:00.001-08:00

Great Gates of McLean property coming up for rent. It will be available before you know it. This property has granite counters, upgraded flooring, crown molding, and many other nice improvements.

3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom home available for rent, you can move-in during February 2009. Around 1275 square feet of living area. There is also a deck/patio. This home is easy access as the parking spaces are right in front, and it is a first floor property. No lugging groceries up stairs or in the elevator.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment to see the property contact:

Jeff Wu
Weichert, Realtors
240-994-7938
703-938-6070 x198
Jeff@AgentKnowsHomes.com

What happened last month at the Gates

2008-12-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

November, a month for Thanksgiving and real estate sales. Well one property at the Gates of McLean sold. It was a two bedroom two bathroom home in a mid-rise building. This property Sold for $350,000 and gave back a closing cost credit to the buyer of $5,000. The property was on the market a paltry 9 days.

The rental market fared slightly better than the Gates resale market in November. There were 3 properties that Rented in November. One was a 3 bedroom, renting for $1850 in 21 days on the market. Both of the other properties that rented were 2 bedroom 2 bathroom homes. They rented at an average of $1750 and in an average of 17 days on the market.

Overall not a ton of activity. But what activity that did occur happened at a very good pace.

(Data taken from MRIS)

Not Enough People

2008-11-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

The Gates of McLean annual meeting was held yesterday evening. There was a good agenda. It was filled with useful information and effective presenters. I was very happy to be able to help coordinate the attendance of the first presenters, the Dulles Metro and the HOT lanes. Both groups talked about their projects, the updates, the benefits, the construction, and the timing. There were good explanations of what they're trying to do to improve our area transportation options. The metro stop will be literally a block or less from the Gates of McLean. It could end up being a real benefit to the community. The HOT lanes will also have specific on and off ramps into the Tysons area. Both projects are slated to finish around 2013.

Next on the agenda was the Fairfax County Police. They gave a good presentation on safety in the community. It was stressed that everyone can be a part of this effort. All residents should make it a habit of noticing things in the community throughout the day, at all times. The residents are the eyes and ears of the police. And no one should be afraid to contact the non-emergency police phone number if they feel something is not right.

Then there was an update on the community budget. The general assessment will be going up 3% in 2009. It was stated that this is very low, compared to the norm, and compared to other communities. A CMC official that was present, said that one of his communities was raising their assessment by 14%. The board also mentioned that they worked hard to keep it as low as possible. They also mentioned that all residents are welcome, throughout the year, to be involved in the financial meetings and help plan the future budgets. This is not new.

The next item on the agenda was supposed to be an election to fill the 2 open board spots. This did not happen. A quorum wasn't reached so voting couldn't be held. There was a 5% shortage. Hopefully this can be overcome next time.

At the end of the meeting there were prizes drawn for residents who did attend. Although the overall attendance was much greater than the normal board meetings, it can still stand for improvement (as the lack of quorum evidences).

The speakers from Dulles Metro, HOT lanes, and the Fairfax County Police all had handouts. I have copies of them for anyone who missed the meeting.

3rd Quarter Sales Summary

2008-10-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

There were 9 of home sold in the Gates of McLean in the 3rd quarter of 2008.

3 One Bedrooms
- Average Sold Price = $226,000
- Models Sold = Danielle (2) + Shannon

6 Two Bedrooms
- Average Sold Price = $333,583
- Models Sold = Modified Christine, Preston, Dalton, Logan, + Chandler (2)

0 Three Bedrooms
- Note of interest = However, one of the two bedrooms was a modified three bedroom.

The 3rd Quarter had an increase in sales over the 5 total sold homes in the 2nd Quarter of 2008.

(data from MRIS)

September Sales/Rental Stats

2008-10-02T18:15:00.001-07:00

The weather is getting colder, and so is the pace of real estate.

See the September statistics below:

1 home SOLD in September at The Gates of McLean

- One 1 Bedrooms
--> SOLD Price = $225,000
--> Model SOLD = Danielle

- Zero 2 Bedrooms

- ZERO 3 Bedrooms

RENTALS:

3 homes RENTED in the month of September

- One1 Bedroom
--> RENTED Price = $1300/month

- Two 2 Bedrooms
--> High RENTED Price = $1800/month
--> Low RENTED Price = $1700/month
--> Average RENTED Price = $1750/month

- Zero 3 Bedroom

CLICK HERE --> For more Stats and Downloadable Gates of McLean information

Information gathered from the MRIS. Information is deemed reliable, but not accurate.

Guilty Party or Victim of the System?

2008-09-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

The lending environment is tighter than ever right now. Well at least much, much, and super much tighter than recent years. In fact FHA loans have become back in style because they are pretty much the lowest down payment loans available now. Sure, don't get me wrong, there are always some unique programs out there that may or may not work for people. However I'm speaking in generalities right now. And right now loans are harder to get.
Well one of the market areas, or sub-markets, of the real estate market that is affected even more so by these changes is the condominium market (lovingly referred to as condos). FHA has an Approved condo list in every area. Many areas have few to even fewer approved communities on this list though. Why is that? I don't know. It may have something to do with the developer when the community was created/converted. Or it may have something to do with the FHA not being pro-active in getting communities involved. I have no idea, and don't claim to know why these lists are so bare. However, it doesn't change the fact that there are so few communities on these "approved" list.
Not being on the "approved" list means that it is harder, if at all possible to get that increasingly popular and increasingly necessary FHA loan through. This is now the loan of choice and necessity for first time buyers. And in our area a first time buyer buys a condo. This is a Catch-22 that must be addressed. But by who, and how.....?

Asking Prices don't mean a lot

2008-09-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

I've been in communication yesterday and today with a couple of possible sellers. They would like to sell, but are afraid of the market. Heck, who can blame them, it's tough when you need to sell in a down market.

However, in order to be me, and do my job the way I believe I should. I have to do something not everyone is doing. I have to do something a lot of people are afraid to do. It's very important though. I have to tell the truth. Whoa! That was a revelation. It may come as a shock, but some people and even some real estate agents aren't telling the truth. I'm not saying they're lying, but with the listing prices we're seeing people definately aren't getting an honest look at what homes are selling for, and will most likely sell for in the near future.

Ah, what do I know, it's probably those darn sellers being stubborn. They can do that sometimes. I have seen too many sellers that are setting asking prices based on their debt load. It must be the sellers. I can check the tax record, and see what they paid. When that figure isn't far from what they're asking, and yet the market price (most recent closed sales in the neighborhood) are averaging significantly lower, what else could the rationale be?

I know everyone wants to make as much money as possible, or for that matter lose as little as possible. We all have to realize, and I mean you, me, any other sellers or agents, basically everyone, that not a one of us controls the market. We can control what we do in relation to the market, such as pricing our homes to sell or not sell (when pricing unrealistically too high). We have entire control over what price we ask, and whether or not that will incite people to visit the property and make offers.

When working for a seller, as I do work for both buyers and sellers (but never at the same time - that' s a discussion on dual agency for another time), I always do my best to get my seller the most money possible within the realm of the terms that are most important to them.
That said, before and during the listing period, I will always tell the truth. Sometimes it's easy to swallow, sometimes it's not.

2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, Chandler, for RENT

2008-09-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

One of the most desired floor plans, the Chandler, is now available for rent. This top floor 2 bedroom 2 bathroom model has a good separation of space. There is a dining area off the kitchen. And the kitchen itself is well proportioned. Plus the home has lots of windows and good natural light. There's also a nice long deck for relaxing. And being the top floor, no one is above you! There are wood floors in the living areas, and carpet in the bedrooms. This great home comes with 2 assigned parking spaces.

Vital Information:

- 2 Bedrooms

- 2 Bathrooms

- 2 Assigned Parking spaces

- Top Floor!

- Washer + Dryer in Home

- Pets Allowed

- $1750/month

Contact me for more information:

Jeff Wu

Weichert, Realtors

703-938-6070 x198

Jeff@AgentKnowsHomes.com

Equal Housing Opportunity

2008 August Sales Stats

2008-09-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

See the August statistics below:

1 home SOLD in August at The Gates of McLean

- ZERO 1 Bedrooms

- One 2 Bedroom
--> SOLD Price = $25,000
--> Subsidy = $0
--> Model SOLD = Dalton

- ZERO 3 Bedrooms

RENTALS: 7 homes RENTED in the month of August

- Two 1 Bedrooms
--> High RENTED Price = $1400/month
--> Low RENTED Price = $1300/month
--> Average RENTED Price = $1350/month

- Three 2 Bedrooms
--> High RENTED Price = $1800/month
--> Low RENTED Price = $1600/month
--> Average RENTED Price = $1725/month

- One 3 Bedroom
--> RENTED Price = $2000/month

CLICK HERE --> For more Stats and Downloadable Gates of McLean information

Information gathered from the MRIS. Information is deemed reliable, but not accurate.

Garden versus Mid-Rise

2008-08-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Garden versus Mid-Rise

Garden versus Mid-Rise. Some people care, some people don't care. Before I get into it I better make sure you know what the two terms mean in this context.

In the Gates of McLean there are 10 residential buildings (the clubhouse would be the 11th building of the community, but no one lives there). 3 of the 10 are what they term Garden style. The other 7 are referred to as Mid-Rise. All of the 10 buildings are 4 floor. All have a variety of floor plans. So what's the difference?

The Garden style are distinguished by their open air hallways. Someone can walk through the hallway on any of the 4 floors and feel the wind blowing. That's the main distinction. Some people like it and some people don't. I'd say it's great on nice days in the spring and fall, maybe even the summer too (because the hallway is at least shaded). I don't know if everyone would feel the same way though in the winter, or if there was a blowing rain.

I have already given light to the main distinction between the two building styles. However there are two other things I failed to mention in the previous paragraph. First is that the Mid-Rise buildings also have secure entrance. You need a key card or fob to gain entry to the main part of the building. So even though everyone, all 10 buildings benefit from the Gates of the Gates of McLean in terms of security, the Mid-Rise buildings have an added level of security with the secure entrance to the building. The second differentiation that I failed to mention is that the Mid-Rise buildings also have a level of garage parking underneath the building. Not all units have a garage parking space deeded to them, but there at least is a possibility of having one. Whereas the Garden style buildings have no garage parking whatsoever.

So where are the pluses and minuses, the benefits and the drawbacks, to having a home in a Garden style building or a Mid-Rise building? Some people talk about energy efficiency. In the Garden Buildings it is arguable that the utility bills will be higher because the home is exposed to the elements on more sides. The Mid-Rise homes are insulated by the heated and cooled, as needed depending what time of hear, hallways. These nice common area hallways are carpeted and painted. However, this cost differencial is offset by a minor increase in the condo dues. The Mid-Rise home owners have an increased monthly assessment every month because of these comfortable hallways. Well what about the elements and parking? Which style is better. It would be easy to say the Mid-Rise since they have the possibility of garage, and protection in the hallways. But then again, it seems that more of the Garden style homes have more parking spaces. So would it be better to have one garage parking space? or two outdoor assigned spots?

The last part of the equation that I haven't put much weight on, but matters a great deal to some, is the floor plans. Although there are more than 10 different floor plans in the community, they are split as to which style building you can find them in. For example, you can only find the Christine, the only 3 bedroom model, in the Garden style buildings. Considering the number of floor plans I could go on for a bit telling which is in which style building, but that is for another discussion.....

So basically, it's not easy to say Garden is better than Mid-Rise, or vice versa for that matter. It's a decision that each will have to make for his, or her, own.