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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)