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There is a lot of buzz surrounding the perceived potential shortage of condos in the DC market. A couple of sources agree, as it stands today, there will likely be a shortage of new condos in the DC Metro area within the next 12-18 months. That is because right now, mirroring the economic conditions of the past few years, many projects have been put on hold and we just aren't seeing the number of new planned projects on the table. Some of the few that are going forward in the DC area aren't scheduled to deliver until 2012 and even 2013.

But one of the beauties of living in America is that we have a capitalistic system that is based on supply and demand. Therefore even one of the most read current reports on the DC Condo market, put out by partners Urban Turf and McWilliams/Ballard, titled their 4^th part: "The Upcoming Condo Shortage (Maybe)". Here in America, a high demand, is never left untended long. In other words, if the demand becomes high enough, suppliers will find a way to deliver the product, usually finding creative new and faster ways to deliver.

 Many of the newer constructions had been planned in the Metro area, along the beltway around the Alexandria and Arlington VA areas called the Dulles Corridor. That is because of the new jobs, especially in the technology fields expected to come to the area. Again, once the jobs are slated and confirmed, it is expected that builders will be clamoring to find ways to deliver new condos as quickly as possible. This will also put many in the construction industry in the market for at the very least "temporary" housing in the DC area.

The McWilliams/Ballard 2010 report also notes that the DC is the strongest condo market in the region. It is also expected to be on of the most active markets in the near term. That seems reasonable, just consider DC neighborhoods that make condo buyers drool, like U Street, a buzzing and very vibrant community. We will take a look at some of these upcoming and hottest DC condo neighborhoods like U and H Streets upcoming articles.

Another consideration is that this report is looking at new construction. We can't forget that many potential sellers of current condos that have been riding out this stormy economy. It is expected that as the economic recover takes hold, we will see more sellers putting their current condos on the market. Winter has also been notorious for slower sales and DC is experiencing a record-breaking winter.  There are also the foreclosed properties held by banks, the "shadow inventory" that still has not hit the market in large numbers. All these points combine to add additional opportunities for condo buying in DC in the near future.

Overall, the DC condo market remains positive. DC retains one of the lowest vacancy rates in the country among large metropolitan areas. The solid and expanding job market will continue to bring new residents to the area. Combined with the the ever growing great reasons to chose condo living - there are certainly ways to find a condo in DC, even in today's market.

But DC condos are being moved quickly, so you will want to start by teaming up with a professional Realtor® who is experienced and you can trust. Turn to Rachel Valentino who will help you form a plan putting you into the condo of your dreams. Expect her to be on top of the DC area condo market and the creative financing options open to condo buyers in the area. Turn to the best, contact her today - let her help you.

Tyson's Corner, VA  is only 15 miles from our nation's capital and is considered part of the Metro DC area. Located in the heart of Fairfax county so close to Washington DC, it is hard to imagine the 1950's when this area was considered as rural. Then Tyson's Corner was marked only by a general store at the intersection of Routes 7 & 123.

 The Tyson's Corner of today may currently be defined as "Commercial" or port of the "Urban Sprawl" found on the outskirts of Washington DC. It's currently mostly known for its premier shopping, offices, large malls and auto dealerships.  That is because it is home to the state's largest mall along with 2 other nearby premier shopping centers. With over 46 million square feet of office and retail space, it is the 12^th.largest business district in the country. Being part of the Dulles Technology Corridor has also brought Tyson's Corner some recent notoriety.

 Tyson's Corner is currently undergoing a planned "Urban Renaissance" and is changing rapidly. Right now, about 20,000 residents call Tyson's Corner their home by night where by day the area is home to as many as 120,000 people who work there. But this is about to change and with the upcoming Silver Line already underway, change is happening rapidly.

 Finally, after years of delays and promises, the Dulles Metrorail is now on track to bring the Silver Line through the Dulles Technology Corridor. with 4 stops in Tyson's Corner. The first phase is scheduled to open for service in 2013. This has lead to some major urban planning with sweeping changes being unveiled for a completely newly revived community and infrastructure.

 Tysons Land Use Task Force envisions its future as a livable, vibrant sustainable urban center of the 21^st century. The vision entails a place where those who work here can own a home here, in a community that will sustain its residents and their needs all the way through retirement.

This "new" Tyson's Corner will have a much better balance of housing and jobs. Those who live here will have access to every conceivable amenity from its shopping and dining to increased access to community events and recreational opportunities and facilities.

 Local urban planners envision doubling the jobs, up to 200,000 and having affordable housing available for upwards of 100,000 residents within the coming decades. Envision this: an exciting new sustainable community, home to a new green network that links existing parks with open space, and newly created parks.

This new urban development plan is not just about more buildings, but really is about creating a place where people want to be. A place where people want to be a part of the community and are safe to walk or bike around and enjoy the amenities. It's a place where singles and families can enjoy life and call home. Tree-lined streets are in the plan, as well as more public spaces. More public art and parks are also in the works.

To be a part of this growing upscale community, you  will want to start looking at your real estate options now by working with a top area Realtor like Rachel Valentino. Right now there are some very diverse housing options available in the area. Depending on your needs, you can currently find historic homes, condominiums, townhouses, and single-family homes all the way up to luxurious estates for sale in and around Tyson's Corner.

Give Rachel a call today to look over and discuss your options and get started on finding a home in Tyson's Corner before the area housing market explodes. Be part of this exciting new Urban Renaissance" by starting your search at The Atlantic Coast Connection website.

 And don't forget that the First time home-buyer credit has been extended. But taxpayers must purchase or be locked into a contract to close before midnight on April 30, 2010 to qualify.

As the year 2009 comes to a close, it seems like a fitting and proper time to reflect on just how rewarding and exciting it can be living in Washington DC as it boldly steps into 2010 as a great American city to live in. It is emerging from the global recession known as a "world class city". The pulse of this city is so strong and vibrant that some residents actually claim to "feel" the excitement and electricity" in the air.

Here are "5 Good Reasons to Feel Good About Calling Washington DC Home":

1) Employers Want to Be Here and are Bringing Their HQ's to the DC area

Big corporations are coming here and staying here. Big names like Volkswagen, Hilton Hotels, Google and many more now call this area home. Big corporations bring in larger number of jobs. There's more coming from all over the world as the DC area increasingly attracts the attention of the international business world.

2) Location Location Location

Three airports with increasing international flights from Dulles along with an extended Metro route make the region an ideal gateway. With increased federal contracting,this makes proximity to Congress and the agencies a big plus.

Oh, and by the way, when you live here, you're within a few hours from everything nature can offer. It's like having "post card views" at your fingertips. You've got mountains, rivers, vineyards, the ocean, and tons of parks."  And its "location, location location" filled with tons of history. Imagine who came before you, in another time, as you live in an area where we stroll through Capital Hill and float down the Potomac River.

3) It's a Spectacular Place to Live During the Holidays

What do people do in DC during the holiday that's special? Click here to visit About.com's "Top 10 Washington, DC Holiday Activities" list to make sure you've covered all your bases.

Right now, if you are a resident, or will be visiting the area, you'll want to remember to visit The National Christmas Tree and the Pageant of Peace in President's Park just South of the White House.  You won't want to miss seeing Santa's Workshop viewable up until Christmas Eve. And there is the nationally renowned free nightly musical performance going on each night until Jan 1, 2010 for everyone to enjoy.

4) Distinct Neighborhoods Make Being Unique Special

The district of DC has 127 total named neighborhoods. See Map. Of these, there are 46 designated historic districts, Each neighborhood new and old, has it's own individual history and unique character. Check out the renovated "Friendship Arch" in Chinatown. 

And there are great neighborhood and block parties to enjoy like Caribbean Parade, the Fiesta DC festival, the Gay parade, and the Emancipation Day parade.

Here is a nice page with interactive links to the various neighborhoods within the district of DC.

5) The Diversity

Washington DC is a great example of an "American Melting Pot". Here you can actually feel as if you have traveled around the world without ever leaving the city. There is such diversity found everywhere here. You'll find a wide array of everything from architectural structures and arts to the food, language and cultures found within the DC Metro area.

From Olympians, Foreign Dignitaries, Politicians, and Lobbyists to Artists, Performers and Actors or maybe even a Corporate Giant, you just never know whom you will meet on the social circuit in DC.

With such diversity, history and beauty, you can see why Washington DC real estate is still so popular. But real estate buying in the Metro area can be complex so you want a REALTOR^® you can trust, one who knows the area and has a proven track record.

Rachel Valentino is just such a person - she's a top specialist in the D.C. area no matter what your needs are. Contact her or check out her Atlantic Coast Connection website today.

And don't forget that the First time home-buyer credit has been extended to include repeat buyers. But taxpayers must purchase or be locked into a contract to close before midnight on April 30, 2010 to qualify. So call Rachel today to see if you qualify and get started on finding your new home for 2010.

All aboard as the new Dulles Metrorail permanently connects Northern VA to Washington DC! One sure to be popular new stop along the new Silver Line is the Wiehle Ave station in Reston,  VA that is scheduled to open in 2013. This will offer unprecedented access through the region, bringing new options to Reston residents who are seeing both work and residential options opening up for the first time in a long time.

With new access to the Capitol City, Restonians can now easily commute into the city for jobs. And even closer, just down the new Silver Line, is Tyson's Corner where the job market is set to take a dramatic increase over the next few years bringing even more new job opportunities to those living in the area. Dulles Metrorail Sliver Line is making Reston VA an ever more visible residential area along what is now being referred to the Dulles Technology Corridor.

Today there are approximately 63,000 residents of Reston VA (Restonians). Only 17 miles outside of Washington DC, this community (CDP) is now being referred to as "an edge city" but seems to still hold on to its originally intended charm. Left behind is the hustle and bustle of the big city; here life is much simpler. Here you can meet your neighbors out on a nightly stroll around a lake or down a nature trail, here the kids laugh and splash in a lake, and there are still those who enjoy a good tennis match after work as a fun & healthy way to end their day.

That's because it's a planned community that still follows the plans set forth in 1962 in regards to development of the area. In the creation of Reston, it was hoped that all Restonians could live, work and have recreation in their own community. Equally important was that everyone have access to common grounds and the scenic beauty shared equally among all income levels.

Originally one of the first parts of Reston was designed to look & feel like the Italian coastal town of Portofino. And even today, you still won't find any chain stores or chain restaurants in Lake Anne, because they're still not allowed. In true suburban contrast, in other parts of Reston, big business is definitely welcome - with more than 1 million sq. ft of office space available.

What Reston has to offer its residents reads like a resort brochure. The recreational facilities include16 pools, 47 tennis courts, and numerous multi-purpose courts that are used for basketball, soccer, etc. There are miles of beautiful groomed walking and bike trails throughout the area. In addition, there are 2 golf courses and 4 Lakes including beautiful Lake Anne. And ice-skating is still popular in the Town Center during the wintertime.

Aside from the plentiful recreational aspects, local residents also enjoy local art galleries, shops, restaurants, museums and even a local professional theatre group. Northern VA is also renowned for its top school systems. So when you add to the mix the upcoming addition of Dulles Metrorail, you can see why it's so popular for residential homebuyers.

Right now there are a lot of residential opportunities in the Reston area to consider.  With average home prices in the mid $400k range, Reston makes it easier for new homebuyers and those with families to become homebuyers. If you're interested in this area or any of the areas along the new Silver Line, give top Realtor^® Rachel Valentino a call today to look over your options.

And don't forget that the first time home-buyer credit has been extended to include more homeowner. But taxpayers must purchase or be locked into a contract to close before midnight on April 30, 2010 to qualify. So call Rachel today to see if you qualify and get started on finding your new home for 2010.

Arlington, VA is home to some of the hottest and most sought after "urban villages" in the entire DC metro area. Young professionals are crazy about the area as it continues to attract more and more young people seeking a hip living area. This urban county covers 26 square miles, directly across the Potomac River from Washington, DC.

This is a Smart Growth area teaming public transportation systems with planned economic development, which has led to booming business districts and quaint residential neighborhoods, each with a small-town feel. There is a strip of 5 major neighborhoods, each with a distinct personality. Two of the most desired of the "urban villages" in this exiting area are Ballston and Clarendon.

Some of the drawing points for the area include:

•  In 2002, the area won a national award for Smart Growth Achievement

•  In 2005, the area was ranked #1 among "walkable cities in the US" by the American Podiatric Medical Association and currently scores 95% on Walk Score (2009).

•  In 2006, CNN Money ranked the areas as the most educated with 37.7% of the residents holding graduated degrees

•  In 2008, BusinessWeek ranked it as the safest community to weather a recession.

•  Home to Wilson Boulevard-Clarendon Boulevard corridor. In 2008, this street was named one of 10 "Great Streets" in the U.S. by the American Planning Association.

Because of the commitment to transit-oriented development, residents can enjoy the convenient shops, services and transit options. Residents continue to support and participate in both political and economic development of the area. In turn because of the strong commercial tax base, the area residents here pay relatively low taxes.

Ballston, VA

Downtown Ballston is centered around Ballston-MU Metrorail station which is a major transportation hub, connecting Metrobus and ART buses with Metrorail's Orange Line. Here you can't help but feel the "bit-city downtown" atmosphere. Here you'll find taller buildings than the rest of the Arlington area. Among the busy office buildings there are numerous designer coffee shops and delicatessens that cater to the 9-5 crowds.

Just a few blocks away the busy atmosphere tapers off into residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and single family homes. You'll also find real estate offerings including numerous apartment and condominiums that complement the skyline and offer simple studios to elegant penthouse suites with panoramic views.

Clarendon, VA

Clarendon is located between the Rosslyn area and the Ballston area. The two main road are Wilson Boulevard (one-way westbound) and Clarendon Boulevard (one-way eastbound). This neighborhood offers mid-sized office buildings near the Clarendon Metro station and safe, stable neighborhoods full of single-family homes and tree-lined streets, offering great opportunities to live, work, and play.

Clarendon is known more as the young, vibrant, and eccentric of the Arlington area urban villages. This neighborhood considered is the heart of Arlington's nightlife and dining scene.

It is often cited as an example for smart growth and transit-oriented development , the model for the term "urban village". In addition to the national chain shopping and retail scene, Clarendon is well known for its local businesses which are varied and unique.

With the laid back, safe, walkable living area so close to the Metrorail and the big city amenities, you can see why this area is so desirable.  Among the real estate offerings in Clarendon and Ballston, you can find numerous townhouses, luxury apartments, and condominiums in addition to single-family homes from which to chose. Rachel Valentino is a top specialist in the Arlington, VA area. Contact her today or check out her Atlantic Coast Connection website to look for your dream home.

Stretching one and a quarter miles along the Potomac River in Price George's County Maryland, you will find majestic National Harbor. This newly developed community brings together work, living and entertainment on a grand scale never seen before.  It's hard to believe this 300-acre waterfront destination is only 15 minutes outside downtown Washington, D.C.

If you arrive by water, you'll be greeted by an astonishing sculpture The Awakening which sets the tone of the entire place. Originally located in Potomac Park across the Potomac River & north a few miles, this statue was dismantled then moved to it's new home. It now resides on the sandy beachfront at the National Harbor resort near the stage and plaza creating a spectacular view from the Potomac River.  Adding to the urban elegance found throughout National Harbor you'll find four beautiful fountains including two pond fountains. You'll also find an abundance of green space sprinkled throughout the community further enhancing the restored natural habitats.

The theme throughout National Harbor is American Spirit and while here, you will feel the spirit of life here, it is exciting, vibrant and so alive. In fact, once you visit National Harbor, it's hard not to imagine living here. Walking along the waterfront it's hard not to be swept away with the notion you could be here every day, living and being part of this vibrant waterfront community. Before you know it, you're picturing yourself waking up to the view of the historical Potomac River and taking daily strolls, jogging or skating down the waterfront path. You may even envision working right here within National Harbor so you can already ‘be home' when you get out of work. 

And then there is the excitement of the best shopping and dining imaginable just outside your door. One of the most exciting new additions to the area that you'll want to visit is the celebrity-infused Ketchup restaurant. And while you're there you may want to try one of their signature menu items like Maryland Crab Cakes or the Philly Sandwich. Residents, trendsetters and VIPs alike are sure to visit this modern American restaurant whose owners include celebrities Ashton Kutcher, Wilmer Valderrama and Tara Reid.

If you were to imagine the best place to live, work and play, then visit National Harbor, you'd see for yourself why living there couldn't get any better. If you are looking into buying a condo anywhere in the DC area, you owe it to yourself to check out the National Harbor area.

Here are 5 more reasons to fall in love with National Harbor:

1.     1 Million square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space

•  Awesome dining, hot, hip and trendy stores, Live Jazz on the riverfront, American Market, Movies on the Potomac and  more

2.     2,500 residential units - Talk to Local Real Estate Expert Rachel Valentino

•  4 newly developed condominiums: Featuring 1st class amenities such as rooftop swimming pool, underground parking and concierge services; One National Harbor.  Fleet Street condominiums, Waterfront Street condominiums and St George condominiums

•  The sale prices on these condominiums are being compared to that of new buildings in downtown Washington DC. One could expect to find a one bedroom starting in the low $300s and 2-bedrooms in the low $500s.

•  In top of the line luxury, there were a select number of larger penthouse style and 2-level homes that were also included in One National Harbor's design. For these lavish and rich homes, one can expect prices up to and over $1 million.

3.     3 piers, including a marina

• Water Taxi service to and from National Harbor to Old Town Alexandria ($14/RT)

•  Seasonal Water Shuttle Service to and from National Harbor to Mt. Vernon, and National Harbor to and from Georgetown

•  Future routes will include Reagan National Airport and The Washington National's Baseball Stadium

•  Lunch and Dinner cruises through Odyssey and the Spirit of Washington and Seadog, a high speed fun cruise on the Potomac

4.     Easy access to DC and other surrounding metro areas

•  Direct access to National Harbor via I-95/495 Exit 2A makes it the only private community with direct access to the Capital Beltway

•  Direct access from I-295 Exit 1A, Route 210 and Oxon Hill Road

•  Easy access to Reagan National, Dulles Intl. and Baltimore Washington Intl. airports

•   Public bus transportation provided by The Maryland Department of Public Works and Transportation (MDOT) and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)

•  The $3 Billion new Woodrow Wilson Bridge is now complete offering an additional 12 lanes to accommodate traffic

5.     On-site security and emergency services 24/7

 So if you're looking to find something new, something different, the ultimate urban experience in the DC area - this is it! Local real estate expert Rachel Valentino was recently introduced to this new hip community and was completely ‘blown away'. She loves the new area and would love to share her enthusiasm by helping you find the perfect condo or residential home here.

Do you really want to make owning a home in National Harbor a reality? Then call Rachel Valentino today to discuss current residential options. She's number one in the entire DC area because she listens to her clients, hears what they are looking for and then goes out of her way to deliver. So if you're interested in learning more about the area or any of the condo options here at National Harbor or anywhere in the DC area, just contact her, she's always available to help.

Centered in the heart of the metro area, is one of the most famous, affluent, and prominent districts within DC, known as Dupont Circle. With its deep rooted art culture, funky shops, and trendy bars and restaurants, Dupont Circle and its cosmopolitan flair combine to make this area one of the most sought after addresses not only in the DC area, but possibly the country. It is here, one can truly experience urban living at its finest, feeling the vibrant heartbeat of the city.

The circle itself is a gathering place, housing a lush green park with plenty of benches for socializing. The tall, beautiful Dupont Memorial Fountain marks the center of Dupont Circle's thriving commercial district. Here in this lively park, you will find others enjoying lunch, strolling, playing chess, people watching or just plain dilly-dallying as they find tranquility within this urban setting. In the photo at the left, trendy residents of Dupont Circle enjoying dog yoga in the park with their furry friends .If you want to explore by foot but don't know where to start, try this recommended tour.

Recently, Dupont Circle earned the distinction of being voted the best place in the DC area for people watching, in a NBCWashington.com contest held in April. The area won over Georgetown with a whopping 63% of the votes and was plugged on NBC on newscasts as the place to people watch and be seen in DC. So grab your lunch, head over to the park to settle in, enjoy the sun and take pleasure in watching fellow Washingtonians around you.

Further illustrating the wonderful benefits of living and working in the Dupont Circle area, retail stores, office buildings, cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions surround the park. The area is home to Phillips Collection, one of the city's leading art museums and also Lambda Rising, the nation's most famous gay bookstore. Also contributing to the art community are the 22 Art on Call boxes in the area named The Dupont Circle Art on Call. This project presents original artwork by 22 local artists painted on antique call boxes showcasing the art and history of this vibrant area. These boxes can be enjoyed throughout the Dupont Circle area AKA walker's paradise.

Dupont Circle has long been a neighborhood that prides itself on its culture diversity opening its doors for those live alternative lifestyles. It also renowned as the preferred habitat for the wealthy diplomatic set, further boosting its cosmopolitan reputation. Although real estate and rental prices in the Dupont Circle area are among the highest in the city, the architecture, and urban ambience make living in this neighborhood worth every penny if one can manage the price.

Some argue that if money were no object, young adults moving to DC would always choose to live in Dupont Circle, the heart of the city.  It's easy to see why, with its unbeatable location, the art and intellectual aspects, the lively culture mix, top-notch restaurants, and a raffish street life to boot. No longer just for those with old money or the nouveau riche, today Dupont Circle is home to artists, intellectuals and young professionals from all walks of life. Indeed, one can say that Dupont Circle is a cosmopolitan chalice that truly runneth over.

Can you imagine yourself with a Dupont Circle address? Then you need an expert you can trust to help you, someone who knows the area, has a proven track record and genuinely wants to help you make your home or condo ownership a reality. As one of the area's top real estate experts, Rachel Valentino is someone you will want working for you.  Check out her Atlantic Coast Connection website to learn more about her and her connection to the DC area. Or email her today with any questions you may have.