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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!