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Last year, local Metro DC area real estate expert Rachel Valentino was introduced to a $4 billion, 300-acre newly opened community called National Harbor and was "completely blown away" by the opportunity. Situated along the Potomac River in Prince George's County, the estate features the Gaylord National Resort, a 2,000-room hotel, as the complex's centerpiece. 

While opportunity blooms, it isn't without conflict. Even before its first attractions opened, National Harbor was making enemies. Developer Milton Peterson chose to purchase Washington's beloved outdoor sculpture, the Awakening, from its longtime home at Haines Point & moved it to National Harbor. The move instantly alerted the public that National Harbor may be developed to lure tourists and conventions away from the District, which would be a potential blow to a city heavily dependent on visitors for tax revenue. 

The lingering obstacle Peterson also may face is the belief among Prince George's VIP's that National Harbor is not meant for them - not as a playground, not as a symbol of the county and not as an employer. 

First introduced as an entirely new "concept" - upscale urban living at its finest, perched on the banks of the Potomac River - it was billed as the urban climate of the future. National Harbor was touted as the place that changes everything. The tag line reads: "How you live. How you work. How you shop. How you play." 

Today, most visitors realize an exciting, vibrant, urban waterfront community that includes fine restaurants, unparalleled shopping, marinas and lavish condo living such as One National Harbor and Fleet Street Condominiums. You'll also find plenty of green spaces and trails throughout the community to enjoy the natural habitats and the great outdoors. 

There is plenty of action planned for residents and visitors to National Harbor. Events include the upcoming Food & Wine Festival and Beer, Bourbon & BBQ, both scheduled in June, along with weekly events such as the American Market and Movies on the Potomac, which are already in full swing. You can visit the National Harbor website for full information and schedules.

If you want to explore the area on your own you may consider taking a Harbor Segs Tour on a Segway® I 2, a highly developed no-emission human transportation unit. Today on the waterfront, Segs are transporting people around National Harbor on a daily basis, with zero emissions harmful to our environment. 

And what about the real estate? Well, here in National Harbor you'll find an array of housing choices, from spacious duplex floor plans to stunning penthouses with spectacular views of the Potomac River. However, the location is (at this time) quite isolated. With no solid transit lines, the only real transportation option to and from National Harbor is by car - your own or taxi - or water taxi from Old Town Alexandria. 

If you're interested in exploring your urban living options here in National Harbor, then call local expert Rachel Valentino today. 

NOTE TO BUYERS: If you are considering previewing a model at any of these communities within National Harbor please make sure that you are properly represented. As on-site sales staff work for the builders you should consider calling a trusted Realtor such as Rachel Valentino to accompany you so you'll be fully informed and in the best buying position possible. Call her or email her today, she'd be glad to assist you in finding the perfect new home in National Harbor.

It's official: Tyson's Corner Planned Transformation is now underway. The "edge city" of Washington DC (but on the VA side of the river) will be transformed. What to expect? -- well, just one of the most vibrant booming urban centers of the country by 2050. 

It's not a short-process; the 40-year plan to urbanize the area includes 4 new stops of Washington Metro's Silver Line. Today's urban planners are also envisioning up to 200,000 jobs and 100,000 residents in the upcoming decades leading us to 2050. I'm guessing you know what that means for real estate! 

That said, it's not just about sales. The tremendous dedication, time and deliberation put into the planning will be truly appreciated as it come to fruition. Most individuals are encouraged -- the years of planning will not let this area become a victim to urban sprawl but rather it will grow into a livable, desirable, and vibrant urban center. 

Tyson's planners have addressed numerous challenges and plans for a greener and more sustainable tomorrow for the residents. They directly addressed the subjects of sustainable growth, energy conservation, environmental protection, affordable housing, safe communities and green open community spaces. 

Meanwhile, there is no getting around the temporary inconveniences for those currently living in the surrounding areas, such as the lane closures along the Metro Toll Road. But the Airport Authority and the Department of Transportation have been very good about posting up-to-date information on their websites. You can click here for Toll Road Information.  

The best information on what is going on with the Metro Silver Line is the official website. You can click here for updated alerts. The 4 stops are currently on schedule for 2013 completion. 

It is remarkable and commendable how Tyson's development team respects the unique natural environment of this Virginia area. Plans include the expansion of usable and publicly accessible open spaces that will increase the quality of life for residents and our environment. 

What can we really expect to find in the upcoming decades? Well if we follow The Tyson's Land Use Task Force official plan, we should expect to see:  

• 75% of all development to be located within an easy walk (1/2 mile) of Metro, lessening dependency on the automobile;

• An urban center that could include 200,000 jobs and 100,000 residents;

• A jobs/housing balance of approximately 4.0 jobs per household; with housing near or easily accessible to the jobs;

• A sustainable Tyson's with restored streams, a green network of public parks, open spaces and trails, and green buildings;

• A redesigned transportation system with circular routes, community shuttles, feeder bus service and vastly improved pedestrian and bicycle routes and connections,

• An encouragement to all to focus on a greener tomorrow with green architecture and site development - a future that will leave a better carbon footprint and raise the quality of life. 

It is destined to become an even MORE popular place where buyers will want to live, work, and raise families while enjoying life in a great community. 

Do you want to be a part of this exciting new transformation? Many ACC clients are now buying in Tyson as the 40-year plan begins. If you are interested in learning more about what real estate options are open in Tyson's Corner or any of the surrounding areas then call Rachel Valentino today to explore your options. You can visit her website or email her today. 

As the competition for the area's real estate grows, there's still only one name that is associated with down-to-earth consultation as you plan your next move. Find out why  Rachel Valentino, managing partner & team leader of The Atlantic Coast Connection Team, is reigning "Best Real Estate Agent" (Washington CityPaper) for two years in a row.

Whether you are a DC homeowner or you're looking to buy, taking steps to "go green" not only adds curb appeal to your home, but it also makes good financial sense. It also feels good and is better for you, your family and the carbon footprint you leave behind.

 There are many steps you can take to move towards a better planet while saving money. Start on the DSIRE website to find state, local, utility and federal incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency in your area.

Many energy providers and product manufacturers are offering programs and rebates, in addition to federal tax credits and incentives making going green easier than you may have though possible. Sometimes the up-front costs of renewable and/or energy efficient systems may seem high, but offer significant savings in the long run.

Spring is an excellent time to inventory your home and property from an energy-saving perspective. Get outside and take your clipboard. Start with the exterior of your home and then work your way through the house to determine where you can improve savings.

Here are some basic steps you can take to really make a big difference. 

NO COST:

Hang your clothes out to dry on a clothesline

Clean refrigerator coils

Clean and vacuum ducts, vents and registers

Turn off home electronics when not in use

Clean lint filter in dryer after every load

Take shorter showers

Learn to love gardening

LOW COST:

Get an in-home energy audit provided by most energy providers at a reasonable cost

Plant trees to provide summer shade and protect from winter winds

Install faucet aerators to reduce water use

Switch to energy saving light bulbs

Fix leaky faucets and shower heads

Install timers and/or motion sensors on outdoor lights

Seal leaks

• install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switch plates
• caulk, seal and weather-strip doors and windows

Choose environmentally friendly products to clean your home

LONG TERM

• Install extra insulation in the attic
• Check roof for adequate ventilation
• Replace single pane windows

Choose Energy Star appliances and electronics

Amazing results happen as average homeowners and consumers make conscience eco-choices each day. Take advantage of the savings and help benefit this great planet we all live on. Make Earth Day decisions an everyday part of your life while improving your home's curb appeal.

Rachel Valentino is an ESRES (Energy Smart Real Estate Specialist) in the DC area that cares about our environment. Visit her website to find your next home or if you have any real estate questions. She's happy to help any time!

The original founders of Chevy Chase envisioned beautiful homes in a park-like setting featuring spacious tree-lined streets and sidewalks and exquisite parks. This early development, a planned community centered around its bustling streetcar hub making it one of America's first streetcar suburbs. So advanced was the planning, that it even included a man-made lake for its residents. 

Today the original site of Chevy Chase Lake is just a small patch of woods. The streetcars that were the center of activity are now just faded memories of the past. Since that time both technology and transportation have worn many faces. But for Chevy Chase, the original concept has weathered the test of time.

Even what is known as the Metro DC urban sprawl has not been able to shake the solid foundation of this community. Here residents still enjoy what was envisioned so many years ago for its residents, a beautiful tranquil suburb conveniently accessible to its bustling neighbor, Washington DC. 3 Metro stations along the red line make Chevy Chase/DC an easy commute.

The community of Chevy Chase has retained its original style, its character and its name. That's a lot to live up to, so therefore, it's big.  Chevy Chase actually encompasses all of the following: a town, a census-designated place (CDP,) several villages, and sections within Montgomery County MD. Because this community straddles the DC line, it is also the name of the very northwest corner of Washington, DC. (Chevy Chase DC) 

 Living in Chevy Chase has been likened to living in suburban ecstasy. Real estate found just north of Chevy Chase Circle includes some of the most prestigious properties found in the Washington DC suburbs. Amidst the cherry blossomed streets, you can find the most luxurious estates and condos to be found in the DC suburbs.

 The northern region features smaller more modest homes - here you will stumble on hidden historic gems including 1950 colonial and rambler styles. There are Federal style townhouses, split-level, and single-family homes, but only a handful within the $525,000 -700,000 range.

 Along with the great older varied architectural styles, there is also a nice selection of hi-rise offerings. So, for those looking for more of a modern or more urban type living arrangement, there are a number of condo options to consider.

 It also goes without saying, living in Chevy Chase is like living in shopping heaven. You'll find some of the best fine dining and shopping options in the greater metro DC area and, quite possibly, this side of the country. "Rodeo Drive of the East" (otherwise known as Friendship Heights) is located just inside the DC line, on Wisconsin Avenue. Here you will find high-end shops and eateries such as Christian Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, MaxMara, Cartier, Ralph Lauren, Jimmy Choo, Famoso Restaurant, and M Café Lounge.

 This area really has a lot to offer - a beautiful community, a number of gorgeous home options, good school systems, and a prestigious address. Consider living in Chevy Chase by starting with a call to Rachel Valentino. She is one of DC's top experts.  Or you can explore your options online by visiting Rachel's website The Atlantic Coast Connection.

As a famous sage (actually a Realtor in North Carolina) once said, the media has made it sound as if in the current buyer's market, homes are almost free.  While it is true that home values have dropped and made it possible for buyers to buy a lot more home for their money, this does not mean sellers are willing (or able) to give their home away.  The media hype has made first time buyers unrealistic and unprepared make a successful bid on a home. 

It is also true that prices are down from a year or two ago, that homes are plentiful, that interest rates (though rising a bit) are still historically low, and government incentives to buy are enticing.  However, in some markets (such as DC) homes in the price ranges most attractive to first time buyers have been snapped up by investors.  There is often a bidding war on lower priced homes.  Often times, the best deals are on homes that are owned by banks, which have intentionally been put on market at prices so low that they invite competitive bidding.

If you are a first time buyer who hopes to walk away with one of these homes, you need to be realistic and prepared.  Engaging the services of a competent Realtor with insight into the local market is essential.  Being flexible about the house is crucial.  It is highly unlikely that you are buying your dream home, so be willing to bid on an acceptable, affordable home.  This increases the likelihood that your bid will be accepted.  Once you have your first home, you are building your future for your next home.

Sellers in the current market may have to accept far less than they hoped, so the buyer is likely to win over other bids (if it comes to that) will have a better chance if he make the transactions trouble free for the seller.  Here are few things you can do if you are ready to buy and want your offer to win out:

• Complete a loan application so your financing is ready to go.
• Have a complete pre-approval letter signed by a person (not a form letter).
• Be willing to pay more than the asking price.
• Come equipped with a large downpayment.
• Be willing to buy the home as is and avoid haggling over small repair issues with the seller and put this in the contact.
• Still insist on a home inspection but within 5-7 days.
• Aim for a quick escrow.

You don't want to make an impulse decision when buying a home, but time is of the essence these days.  Coming to property showings ready to buy will serve you well!

Rachel Valentino can help you prepare to become a homeowner. She is very familiar with the DC metro area, so she can direct you to appropriate and affordable properties in the District, northern Virginia, or eastern Maryland.

It is a known fact that many people buy their first home with at least some help from the bank of Mom and Dad.  Like prudent loan officers everywhere, Mom and Dad may need some convincing that the kids are ready to buy and won't require monthly help to make the payment.   Especially if they are homeowners themselves, they need little convincing though, that homeownership is good deal, especially when the numbers show that there is little difference in the mortgage payment vs. their current rent in DC.

With the Home Buyer's Tax Credit in play, there are a couple of exciting ways for parents to help their children buy now.  While you can't sell your kids the family home and get the credit, you can help them buy another place.

If they are already credit worthy, you can help them with the downpayment, especially if they are going FHA.  IRS rules allow gifts of up to $10,000 per person per year.  When they go the $8,000 back, you can your money back - or consider that you are virtually "giving" an extra $8,000 to apply toward their payments or to furnish the new place.

If they aren't ready to get a loan on their own, you can also co-sign an FHA loan with them, maybe even help them with the 3.5% downpayment, and let them amend their taxes to get the credit now.  As noted above, this approach could help them buy the things they needed for the home when the credit came back. (This could prevent near future withdrawals from the bank of Mom and Dad to buy the carpeting or fix the garage!)

This approach can even work if your child is in school.  With the high cost of college room and board, you might come out ahead if you bought a $100,000 condo for 3.5% ($3,599 ) down.  Your child could claim the credit to offset the cost of other school expenses.  As long as they lived in the place for three years, they would not have to pay anything back.  Assuming the kid doesn't change his major to some esoteric specialty only available across the country, this would serve him well during his college years.  He could sell the place when he graduated, and use the proceeds to finance his new home or other life adventure. Or you and your child could become landlords and rent out the place to future students.

Rachel Valentino can help you figure out how to make the tax credit work for you. She is very familiar with the DC metro area, so she can direct you to appropriate and affordable properties in the District, northern Virginia, or eastern Maryland.

In 1970 20 million Americans stepped out into the Spring Sunshine to take part in one of the most successful organized peaceful demonstrations of all times to promote the environment. It was a remarkable day in history with so many people stepping outside there was no turning back- it was time for reform and appreciation. This year, April 24^th will mark the 40^th anniversary of the grassroots environmental movement that we all now know as "Earth Day".  DC is the place to be on Earth Day!

It's amazing how the communities and local volunteers throughout the DC metro area have really made a difference to our city and planet through years of action. It's because of the ongoing inspiration and tireless efforts put out each day by average citizens in our neighborhoods and communities that makes DC a forerunner in green cities striving to leave behind a better and healthier city and planet for future generations.

That's what makes living in DC so great. This city is known for its innovative year-round programs and educational resources dedicated to a greener future. It is a city where promoting the environment and a sustainable planet has become second nature to us. Not only are residents here thinking globally, but they also volunteer their time and efforts locally turning this region into a city with a bright and green future. Show your appreciation through Earth Day Celebrations.

Right here, the metro area has a wide variety of events and activities that make caring for our planet fun for all ages. Throughout the entire metro area, you can pitch in and help clean up any of the region parks or attend any of the many family events scheduled. About.com offers this super list of fun Earth Day Activities DC, MD, and VA - the most popular being a combination weekend starting with the Sat Zoo cleanup and recycling event. Then on Sunday, hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors will head to National Mall for the free festival and Climate Rally.

Without our local community volunteers, this movement would have gone nowhere. But it is an honor to report that the Potomac River cleanup is now in it's 22^nd year. This breathtaking beautiful river will be around for generations to enjoy thanks in large part to the original grassroots environmental movement started in 1970. Check out this ongoing volunteer list for opportunities to help with the local environment. Imagine living on the Potomac River where every day you are given a reason to appreciate our planet, it's history and great beauty.

Right now there are some great properties for sale along the Potomac River. If you'd like to live in the DC area along the Potomac River, you may also want to consider Maryland cities like Potomac, North Potomac, and the newly revamped National Harbor. There are also Arlington and Alexandria, Virginia along with other notable communities throughout the metro area to consider for prime Potomac River views. Rachel Valentino knows this area very well and would love to help find you a home along this historic and eco-friendly river. It's easy to contact her and having one of DCs top realtors on your side makes home ownership easier than you think.

Happy Earth Day - Thank you, Mother Nature and Father Time.

Rachel is an ESRES (Energy Smart Real Estate Specialist)

2000 represented the 1^st ever paid for advertising campaign for the Census. With a budget exceeding $10.8 Million to spread the message, the average American saw or heard the message over 50 times. The results showed an increase in mail response participation from 65-67%. This reversed a three-decade-long decline in mail response.

The census is an important tool to gain access to federal funds for hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, bridges, tunnels, and other-public works projects, and emergency services. Cities use the data for program planning for youth, the elderly, and other groups.  The census does to request social security numbers or provide name and addresses to any other federal agency, so everyone is encouraged to fill out the short form. Underreporting hurts DC and other cities.

Since every locality has the same concerns, the 2010 US Census campaign is now bigger than ever.  In total, more than 400 ads in 28 languages have been created for the 2010 Census. Placements span TV, radio, print, out-of-home, digital, cinema, social media, events, and sponsorships.

In January, 2010 the national road tour kicked off in New York City. It will be stopping and exhibiting at more than 800 events nationwide. For more information or to follow the Road Tour visit 2010census.gov and follow us on Twitter (@2010Portrait), Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and YouTube

By February, 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau started building awareness about the importance and benefits of mailing back the 2010 Census form with a $5.1 million advertising package during the 2010 Winter Olympics when 132 spots aired on NBC, MSNBC, CNBC and USA.

In order to make sure that you don't miss the message, the US Census Bureau has also enlisted the help of trusted voices to call people to action. Even Nickelodeon's Dora the Explorer got in n the actin: "Children Count Too". In the news and on the radio, DC Mayor Fenty urges DC residents to participate as part of the DC  Counts initiative and President Obama has a 30-second video day urging every American household to complete and return the 10-question survey. This year's message is "Because we can't move forward until you mail it back." Vote Latino is offering 25 free downloadable songs for signing the pledge.

In Washington DC, if you take the Metro, you can't miss the 20 foot tall census form displayed outside Union Station. Haven't seen it?  View the form here. It even comes with a prepaid envelope making it even easier to mail it back as soon as possible.

Still don't get it?  Reminders are everywhere!  If you are too busy watching NASCAR to fill out your form, you were reminded on March 21 at Bristol and will be reminded again on March 28^th at Martinsville. Watch for car #16, driven by Greg Biffle as Roush Fenway Racing, proud sponsor,helps spread the word.

"It's Easy". Asking just 10 questions and taking only about 10 minutes to complete, the 2010 Census form is one of the shortest in U.S. history. How hard can it be? If you still need help, you can call the official Telephone Questionnaire Assistance Center or visit the Questionnaire Assistance Center and Be Counted sites to help answer your questions. 

The Census is only taken every 10 years, yet every day decisions in DC and throughout the nation are based on the Census data to determine which communities, as well as schools, hospitals, and roads need federal funding. What's at stake is nearly $2.5 billion in federal funds that could potentially go to the District - that's why it's so important we all do our part. Here's a quick recap of how the information collected is used:

The federal government uses census numbers to allocate over $100 billion in federal funds annually for community programs and services, such as education programs, housing and community development, health-care services for the elderly, job training and many more.

Local and tribal governments use census information for planning and allocating funds for new school construction, libraries and other public buildings, highway safety, and public transportation systems, new roads and bridges, location of police and fire departments and many other projects.

Community organizations use census information to develop social service programs, community action projects, senior lunch programs and child-care centers.

Businesses use the numbers to decide where to locate factories, shopping centers, movie theaters, banks and offices -- activities that often lead to new jobs.

The U.S. Congress uses the census totals to determine how many seats your state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Adrian M. Fenty, Mayor of DC, clearly: states the importance  to DC of returning the form

"The 2010 Census will touch so many aspects of the public over the next decade with the largest impacts on medical assistance and insurance, transportation funding, employment assistance, Section 8 housing, and education funding. It is critically important for the District of Columbia to have as complete and accurate a count as possible so that we can secure our share of the approximately $400 Billion in federal funding in order to provide the vital public services that our residents so greatly deserve." - (October 29, 2009).

Census questionnaires are sent to every address in the nation. The form this year has been substantially streamlined. It takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Forms are mailed in March. When you receive your form, simply answer the 10 short questions and mail the form back - a postage-paid envelope in provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who asks questions from the form. You can preview the form online also. Especially in this economy, it is even more important to participate to ensure our state has an accurate count of our population.

Rachel Valentino is a visible and highly respected real estate professional in the Washington DC area. She urges all area residents to participate by filling out and mailing back the census form in a timely manner. You can visit her website, The Atlantic Coast Connection to see the latest real estate offerings in the DC area.