Realtors® Rally Under the Shadow Of The Washington Monument

Fri, 18 May 2012 07:29:31 -0700

Yesterday was the Rally to Protect Homeownership in Washington DC. According to the count by the National Park Service we were 13,000 strong on the grounds of the Washington Monument yesterday morning.

The rally was not just a chance to stand around idly to talk about the value of homeownership but part of the annual mid-year conference held in DC every year.

Besides hearing from other Realtors® at the rally Sen. Johnny Isakson from (GA) and Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD) also spoke about the importance of homeownership to the American economy. What they didn't say and might not have struck anyone but me was the Washington Monument is current closed due to a large structural crack. No one can get inside to see the beautiful views of Washington DC from the top. Thousands of visitors are turned away with no chance of getting inside the doors. The same is now true with homeownership in the US. There are thousands standing just outside the door of their new homes but they can't get in due to chagnes in mortgage lending and appraisal rules.

Shifting lending rules to a to a "one size fits all" mentality has kept thousands of qualified buyers from buying a new home. Changing down-payment rules, increasing monthly mortgage premiums and reducing potential closing cost assistance are just a few of the changes FHA has put in place impacting most first time homebuyers.

Making sure that Congress understands the negative impact of changing the current mortgage tax deduction would have on homeownership is major concern to anyone who owns or hopes to own a home in the future. Holding lenders accountable to do what was annouced by the White Houses as part of the $25 billion settlement in March 2012 should be a top priorty.

Lenders have not stepped up to the plate to streamine the short sale process and assisting our military servicemembers with PCS orders. Calls to lenders about new programs for assistance by my clients have meet with responses including "it takes time to roll out these programs" or "we are unware of any program changes." Answers which continue to leave the financial future of homeonwers in the lurch.

Hopefully the noice from yesterday's Realtor® Rally to Protect Homeownership was heard on Capitol Hill and the meetings that took place this week will spur lenders to do the right thing now.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

If you are interested in learning more about the Northern Virginia Real Estate market including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William Counties give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group, Inc a call at 703-346-2213.

Military Relocation Specialist serving military families relocating to and from the Pentagon, Fort Belvoir, Quantico MCB and all of the Military District of Washington installations.

Check out www.varealestatetalk.com and www.cjrealtygroup.com for more information.

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Kings Park In Springfield VA Still Has Raving Fans Over 50 Years Later

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:01:21 -0700

What the developer said in 1961 said today about Kings Park is still true today. You only need to drive through the neighborhood 50 years later to see how the trees have matured on the 1/4 to 1/3 acre lots or walk to the park to see the neighbors enjoying the neighborhood pool in the summer to understand why.

Kings Park also has something you don't find in many other neighborhoods. They have their own ensemble band to entertain at the numerous community events held throughout the year. This past spring they celebrated the 50th anniversary with a Pot Luck dinner attended by close to 600 residents.

The other reason Kings Park remains popular is the location. With nearby shopping and multiple commuting options the neighborhood has a lot to offer. In addition residents in Kings Park have walking or biking access to the 493 acre Lake Accotink Park. The park features a 55 acre lake, a minature golf course, boat rentals, fishing and a 4 mile loop trail.

If you are interested in seeing what's available for buyers today in Kings Park check out Kings Park Homes for Sale.

Call Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group at 703-346-2213 to learn more about Kings Park.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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SOLD-Another Successful Woodbridge VA DoD HAP Sale

Tue, 15 May 2012 16:25:10 -0700

This morning Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group went to settlement on our waterfront townhouse listing in Powells Landing in Woodbridge VA. The owners of the home had left the area on PCS orders in 2009 and were eligible for the Department of Defense Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP).

The owners contacted me after reading a number of blog articles I had written about DoD HAP benefits and we discussed their eligibility for the program and next steps. The tenants who live in the property are also military and were helpful in working with us on showings.

This is our 36th closing on homes in the Northern Virginia area since the HAP program was approved. We've been fortunate to work with so many families who had the option to use the benefits offered by the program in our down market. For all of these families it would have meant holding on to their homes for many years or face a short sale or VA Compromise sale.

The tenants have a new landlord for a short period of time while they pack up for their move. We look forward to our next DoD HAP settlement next week just a few miles up the road in Springfield VA.

If you are a military family in the Northern Virginia area give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213 to talk about your options. The deadline for DoD HAP applications is quickly approaching.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Today is Military Spouse Appreciation Day-A Heartfelt Thank You

Fri, 11 May 2012 07:19:26 -0700

Military Spouse Appreciation Day was first celebrated in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the observence. Since then every year the Friday before Mother's Day is set aside to thank those who stand beside our troops during both peace and conflict.

If you know a military spouse who is holding down the fort while their loved one is away today would be a great day to treat them to a special lunch, dinner or even offer to watch the kids so they can have some quiet time.

Thank you to all the military spouses around the world for your support of our troops.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Wondering What's For Sale Near West Springfield High School?

Sun, 13 May 2012 18:09:39 -0700

One of the question many home buyer's ask is "how are the schools?" Though as Realtors® we can't tell you any details about local schools we can provide you a list of resources to check to determine whether the school is one that's right for your children.

For home buyers looking in West Springfield Hwill be pleased to know that the US News and World Report Education Edition recently ranked West Springfield High School number 12 in the State of Virginia. Per the West Springfield High School website the school offers one of the highest number of Advanced Placement (AP) courses among Fairfax County Schools.

If you are looking for a new home in the West Springfield High School boundaries give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group at 703-346-2213.

$374,999 : 8605 Old Keene Mill Rd, Springfield

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,790 sq ft

Lot size: 9,560 sqft

$595,000 : 8710 Etta Dr, Springfield

5 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 3,451 sq ft

Lot size: 9,524 sqft

$714,900 : 7213 Danford Ln, Springfield

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,772 sq ft

Lot size: 14,230 sqft

$525,000 : 7903 Jansen Dr, Springfield

4 beds, 3 full baths

Lot size: 12,891 sqft

$559,900 : 8714 Arley Dr, Springfield

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 10,743 sqft

$474,900 : 7833 Brompton St, Springfield

5 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 14,982 sqft

The homes above are just a sampling of homes for sale in the West Springfield High School boundaries. To see additional homes check out West Springfield Homes for Sale. If you find a home you think might be in the West Springfield High School boundaries you can check the Fairfax County Schools Boundaires website for more information.

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Potoamc Club-Under Contract In Less Than 24 Hours

Mon, 07 May 2012 06:44:56 -0700

Potomac Club in Woodbridge VA is a newer planned community which has caught the attention of savvy buyers.

The crown jewel of thei Potomac Club neighborhood s the incredible $12 million dollar club house which sits at the entrance to the neighborhood. Featuring both indoor and outdoor pools, a rock climbing wall, billiards room and casual lounge the clubhouse is designed as a place for residents to gather and relax. The club also is a WiFi hot spot and business center giving residents who need to work from home the convenience of quiet spot to hold a meeting or get some work done just outside their own front door.

The opening of the new Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center within walking distance of the community which includes a Wegmans grocery store, Zoe's kitchen, Uncle Julio's and more shops coming this fall has added to the appeal of the Potomac Club neighborhood. Also nearby are Potomac Mills Mall, Ikea and Costco. The expansion of the Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center provides close by medical and emergency care.

Multiple commuting options are available within a short distance of Potomac Club including park and ride lot at the mall and the Rippon VRE station. Quantico is within 15 miles to the south (reverse commute), Fort Belvoir is within 20 miles to the north.

This townhouse was on the market less than 24 hours when we had a fully ratified contract. Priced at $310,000 the 3 level 3 BR/2.5 BA end unit townhouse offers a well maintained and upgraded home for the buyer. If you are a homeonwer in Potomac Club and are thinking about selling give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Years Later West Springfield Is Still A Neighborhood Where You Can Enjoy The Outdoors

Tue, 01 May 2012 18:57:25 -0700

When West Springfield was first being built the developers didn't knock down every tree they could see and flatten the hills. Instead they left the gently rolling hills and many trees.

Now West Springfield residents can still enjoy the outdoors in their backyards but also the dozens of local and Fairfax County Parks that dot the area as well.

Whether it's South Run or Wakefield Recreation Centers, Hidden Pond Nature Center, Lake Accotink or Huntsman Lake (to name a few) residents can find a variety of outdoor activities to keep them busy all year round.

Residents of West Springfield also benefit from a wide variety of commuter options to DC, as well as neighborhoods within 10 miles of Fort Belvoir and NGA.

For residents with school age children the West Springfield HS Pyramid offers a good selection of elementary schools feeding to West Springfield HS.

The only thing home buyers looking in West Springfield today can't find are homes for sale for under $35,000. You can find Condos, Townhouses and Detached homes at a variety of price points through out of the West Springfield area.

Take a tour of some West Springfield (22152) homes for sale.

West Springfield Townhouses & Detached Homes For Sale (22152)

West Springfield Condominiums for Sale (22152)

Call Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group at 703-346-2213 to talk about the best option for you in West Springfield and the surrounding area.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Birds Aren't The Only One Who Like Slugs In Springfield VA

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 17:57:40 -0700

If you are just moving to West Springfield (VA) from another part of the country the term "slug line" make you go YUCK. However for anyone who has lived in the area for awhile the term "slug line" means a great way to get from a West Springfield neighborhood to the Pentagon or other major DC employment areas.

One of the questions that anyone relocated to the area asks is about public transportation options. Once newcomers understand the value of a slug line...it is FREE then they wonder if they can find a home within a mile of a slug line.

The good news is that the local MLS does give us the option to do a map search based on homes within a radius and it is easy to provide a list of available homes within a specified area. For example this map shows a one mile radius around four specific slug lines close to popular West Springfield neighborhoods.

1. Cardinal Forest Shopping Center/Shell Station
South side of Old Keene Mill Road

2. Daventry
Hunter Village Drive and Old Keene Mill Road

2. Sydenstricker Commuter Lot
Sydensticker and Fairfax County Parkway
Bus and Slug Line

4. Rolling Valley Commuter Lot
Next to Rolling Valley Shopping Center
9300 Old Keene Mill Road
Bus and Slug Line

If you are considering a move to West Springfield and need help look for a home close to a "slug line" or any other form of public transportation give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213.Let our experience put you on the road to home ownership and maybe even find you a free ride to your office.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Charlestown Townhouses-Williamsburg Comes to Northern Virginia

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 18:46:13 -0700

Are you looking for a way to spend the $8000 first time home buyer's incentive? Then you might want to consider the all brick townhouses in the Charlestown neighborhood in West Springfield to use your piece of the incentive.

You don't find many neighborhoods that have been as well maintained as this one. With an HOA that does all of the outside maintenance including a three year paint schedule, roofing, sidewalks, brick courtyard walls and front landscaping it means that you can have your weekends free to enjoy all of the nearby activities.

While the neighborhood is primarily made up of three level townhouses there are a scattering of two level homes mixed in to the 500 plus homes that make up the community. For first time buyers who want to be close to shopping, public transportation and recreation activities Charlestown has all three covered.

Express service to the Pentagon runs through the neighborhood, the Fairfax Connector offers service to the Springfield Metro and Fort Belvoir is an easy drive. In fact from my experience having owned and lived in the neighborhood all you need to do is step out to Forrester Blvd and you will be offered a ride into town. Shopping at multiple grocery stores is within walking distance and the back entrance to Lake Accotink Park is within a mile.

If you are thinking that now is the time to take advantage of low interest rates, lower house prices and the $8000 tax credit then give me a call. Let's get together and talk about your options. No hassle, no pressure, just straight honest talk about our market and what is right for you.

Search available Charlestown listings

Floor plan illustrative of the Hermitage Floor Plan.
Large 3 bedroom and den with aproximately 2500 square feet.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Springfield (VA) Kings Park A Great Place to Hang Your Crown

Sat, 30 May 2009 14:22:21 -0700

It isn't hard to figure out what the developer of the first Kings Park was planning when they laid out the plan for the community and the homes. With one look at the street names Thames, Victoria, Trafalgar and Cromwell among others you might think you have made a trip back to England. Then when you add the names of the five original models; King, Queen, Princess, Duke and Duchess, you realize absolutely there is a royal connection!

Our family bought our very first home in Kings Park in 1981. Having just returned from five years overseas we were anxious to settle down for awhile and having grown up in Springfield it was an easy choice to make the original Kings Park the place to buy our first "real home." We were attracted to the neighborhood due to the mature trees, green space parks, community pools and easy commuting to our jobs. With the gentle slope of our 1/3 acre lot we were able to set up a zip line between the top of the back yard and the back fence which became a neighborhood hangout for the under 5 age group!

Since the neighborhood was first built over 40 years ago it has been popular with military families looking for easy access to the Pentagon or Fort Belvoir. Children attend schools in the Lake Braddock School Pyramid and both Northern Virginia Community College and George Mason University are close by. Public bus transportation, a VRE station and slug lines are easy to get to from anywhere in the neighborhood. Homeowners can walk to the Kings Park Shopping Center and even the Kings Park Library branch of the Fairfax County Library System.

When you want to take a break you walk or ride your bike through two different "back" entrances to Lake Accotink or for anyone who likes the challenge of dirt biking the nearby trails through Wakefield Park are considered some of the best in the area. Wakefield Park is also the location for the Audrey Moore Recreation Center where you will find an indoor pool and popular fitness center. During the summer Lake Accotink Park hosts free Friday night summertime concerts which are an absolute hit with everyone. Music ranges through swing, jazz, pop and rock. If you haven't seen your neighbors for a few days chances are you will find them there with a picnic basket and folding chairs

If you are interested in learning more about Northern Virginia Relocation, local neighborhoods or things to do give the Cindy Jones team a call at 703-346-2213. No hassle, no pressure, just straight talk about whether now is the right time for you to buy a home in Kings Park or any Springfield (VA) neighborhood.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Two Royal Communities in Northern Virginia-Kings Park & Kings Park West

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 06:59:48 -0800

My family bought our very first home in Kings Park in 1981. Having just returned from five years overseas we were anxious to settle down for awhile and having grown up in Springfield it was an easy choice to make the original Kings Park our first "real home." We were attracted to the neighborhood due to the mature trees, green space parks, community pools and easy commuting to our jobs. With the gentle slope of our 1/3 acre lot we were able to set up a zip line between the top of the back yard and the back fence which became a neighborhood hangout for the under 5 age group!

Since the neighborhood was first built over 40 years ago it has been popular with military families looking for easy access to the Pentagon and for families with children who want to attend schools in the Lake Braddock School Pyramid. You can walk or ride your bike through two different "back" entrances to Lake Accotink or stay in the neighborhood and play at the community park. This year the community is starting the redesign process with the Fairfax County Park Authority to revitalize the community park to bring it up to date with the activities of today's family. One of the original pools in the community was closed (Royal Pool) and the land will now be incorporated into the expanded park.

At the same time that the original homes in Kings Park were going up at "end of Braddock Road" the developer also had their sights set on land just a little further west. In 1967 the deed to the land that would then become Kings Park West was approved by the county and in 1968 the first homes were completed. The theme continued with more names right out of the history books of England and with the addition of five new models; Essex, Regent, Baron, Cromwell and York, larger than in the original Kings Park neighborhood. Just as the first neighborhood had access to community parks Kings Park West also has Royal Lake and four community pools.

During the summer both Lake Accotink Park and Royal Lake host free Friday night summertime concerts which are an absolute hit with everyone. Music ranges through swing, jazz, pop and rock. If you haven't seen your neighbors for a few days chances are you will find them there with a picnic basket and folding chairs. So if you are looking for two neighborhoods with royal lineage then take a look at Kings Park and Kings Park West. You may find your next home among the mature trees.

Other Fairfax County Neighborhoods You Should Consider

Greentree Village
Springfield Oaks
Cardinal Forest
Fairfax Station

If you are interested in learning more about Northern Virginia Relocation, local neighborhoods or things to do give me a call. As a native of the area I can give you a tour not only a new place to call home but other areas of interest for you and your family.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

As an Associate Broker with RE/MAX Allegiance in Northern Virginia and native of the area I can assist you whether you are buying, selling or renting a home anywhere in Northern Virginia. For more information about the area or my services you can check VaRealEstateTalk or my Northern Virginia website.

Search all homes available in the Northern Virginia area.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Listen To The Train Whistle In These Prince William County Communities

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:52:28 -0700

We have all read the stories of how the railroad opened up development throughout the United States and changed the face of our young nation. When transportation officials and developers began planning the Virginia Rail Express (VRE) along the I-95 corridor in 1992 there were concerns as to whether the lack of housing near the train stations would derail the long term plans for a commuter trail. Just like the Wild West the train brought a new supply of "whistle stop" towns close to the eastern run of the tracks including Belmont Bay, Rippon Landing and Quantico.

The Woodbridge Station sits just at the edge of Belmont Bay and is within a mile of the marina that is the jewel of the community. Still growing Belmont Bay offers buyers the chance to live in a community that includes a marina, the public Osprey Golf Course and waterfront walking paths. Neighboring a 400 acre nature reserve residents have a chance to not only enjoy the community but watch Osprey's soar and fox run. With waterfront condos, townhouses, golf villas and detached homes residents enjoy a resort style lifestyle all year long.

Only a few miles south of Belmont Bay you hit the Rippon Landing station. When you get off the train you can look up the hill and see the new Potomac Pointe condos. What you don't notice until you top the hill is that the condos enjoy a stunning view of the Potomac River. The lot is general full with commuters who come in from Port Potomac or Eagles Pointe. The station is also within walking distance to townhouse owners at Riverside Station or the detached homes in Dawson's Landing.

The last station in Prince William County is the Quantico Station. Located within the gates of Quantico Marine Base commuters must drive in to the base in order to get to the station. However that doesn't seem to stop anyone who wants to grab a cup of coffee at the Whistlestop Coffee Shop before boarding the train. New developments including Cramer's Ridge, Lionsfield Valley and the Reserve at Potomac Crest have increased the popularity of the Quantico Station and it is a great chance for active duty military who need to make a morning run to the Pentagon a chance to grab the train and transfer to the metro in Springfield.

The development of the new whistle stop communities on the eastern portion of the VRE are part of the master plans for the Northern Virginia Counties of Stafford, Prince William and Fairfax. With ridership continuing to grow the plans to create more walkable communities on the right side of the tracks in has become a reality. The western stops on the VRE have also spanned huge developements as well.

If you are interested in finding a home within walking distance of a VRE station give the Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213. Let us give you you the whistle stop tour of Prince William County.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Welcoming NGA and BRAC 05 Transfers to West Springfield VA

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:53:39 -0800

If you haven't been stationed in Northern Virginia before one of the first things that you want to become familiar with are all the different commuting options available. Depending on the neighborhood you may have the option for an express bus, a metro ride, VRE or slug line. Many who "slug" in the morning take a bus home in the evening, so you are not stuck with just one choice of how to come and go.

Once you have an idea of your West Springfield commuting options then we can take a closer look at some of the Fairfax County neighborhoods that have always been popular with military and civilian personnel. This tour takes you down Old Keene Mill Road one of the main throughfares in Springfield.

One of those neighborhoods is the tree lined neighborhood of Cardinal Forest located in West Springfield. With well maintained homes spread out on large lots, the ability to walk to Accotink Park and express Metro bus (18G) service to the Pentagon this area has been a prime location since it was built in the late 1960's.

Just as with Cardinal Forest you can walk to all of the same recreation, shopping and commuting options. The largest model town houses the Concord and Hermatage have 2500 square feet of living space on three levels.

The final stop on this tour down Keene Mill Road is the neighborhood of Orange Hunt Estates. Orange Hunt also is on a direct bus line to the Pentagon and is only minutes away from one of the major slug lines and connector bus points in the area. Just like Cardinal Forest the homes in Orange Hunt Estates sit on large tree lined lots and have been maintained well over the years by the owners.

The new NGA facility in Springfield is within 5 miles of all of these neighborhoods and Fort Belvoir is under 10 miles away. These neighborhoods are part of the West Springfield HS Pyramid.

So if you are looking for affordable neighborhoods in Fairfax County with loads of commuting options to the Fort Belvoir, NGA or the Pentagon or other military bases in the area, consider these terrific neighborhoods. If your orders bring you to Northern Virginia this year give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213. If buying is not in your plans. Don't worry our team is happy to help you find a place to rent in any of these or other Northern Virginia neighborhoods as well.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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PCS Orders To Northern Virginia? Popular West Springfield Neighborhoods to Consider

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:06:51 -0700

Once you have an idea of your commuting options then we can take a closer look at some of the West Springfield neighborhoods that have always been popular with military personnel. This tour takes you down Old Keene Mill Road one of the main roads west off of I-95 South in Springfield.

One of those neighborhoods is the tree lined neighborhood of Cardinal Forest located in West Springfield. With well maintained homes spread out on large lots, the ability to walk to Accotink Park and express Metro bus (18G) service to the Pentagon this area has been a prime location since it was built in the late 1960's.

Just around the corner is the townhouse community of Charlestown. Built to reflect Colonial Williamsburg the all brick homes are well maintained by the homeowners and the association. The HOA is responsible for all of the exterior maintenance of the homes, including a three year paint cycle for trim, brick courtyard walls, roofs, front yard mowing and trash removal.

Just as with Cardinal Forest you can walk to all of the same recreation, shopping and commuting options. The largest model town houses the Concord and Hermatage have 2500 square feet of living space on three levels.

The final stop on this tour down Keene Mill Road is the neighborhood of Orange Hunt Estates. Orange Hunt also is on a direct bus line to the Pentagon and is only minutes away from one of the major slug lines and connector bus points in the area. Just like Cardinal Forest the homes in Orange Hunt Estates sit on large tree lined lots and have been maintained well over the years by the owners.

All of these neighborhoods are part of the West Springfield HS Pyramid.

So if you are looking for affordable neighborhoods in Fairfax County with loads of commuting options to the Pentagon, Fort Belvoir or other military bases in the area, consider these terrific neighborhoods. If your orders bring you to Northern Virginia this year give the Cindy Jones a call at 703-346-2213. If buying is not in your plans. Don't worry our team is happy to help you find a place to rent in any of these or other Northern Virginia neighborhoods as well.

Cardinal Forest in West Springfield Homes for Sale
Charlestown In West Springfield Homes for Sale
Orange Hunt in West Springfield Homes for Sale

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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Sydenstricker School-The Last One Room School House Used in Fairfax County VA

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 17:18:28 -0700

The Sydenstricker School in Springfield VA was the last one room school house in operation in Fairfax County. It closed in 1939 but the building is still used today as a community meeting hall. The belfry contains the original school bell purchased in 1920's from the Sears Roebuck store in Alexandria. The school was named after the first minister of the original Sydenstricker Church next door built in 1909. Rev. Syndenstricker was also the uncle of Nobel Prize Winner Pearl Buck the author of The Good Earth.

The school house is located on Sydenstricker Road and the Fairfax County Parkway just at the edge of the Orange Hunt Estates neighborhood.

Schools in Springfield VA and Fairfax County have come a long way since the Syndenstricker school closed. Today you will find over 175,000 students enrolled in Fairfax County Schools. Per the Fairfax County School website the country schools are comprised of "139 elementary schools (grades K-6), 19 middle schools (grades 7 and 8), 3 middle schools (grades 6-8), 4 secondary schools (grades 7-12), 21 high schools (grades 9-12), 8 special education centers, 2 alternative high schools, and 46 alternative programs. Three of these schools are magnet schools: Bailey’s Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences, Hunters Woods Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences, and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology."

Not a one room school house in the entire system today.

New to the Springfield or Fairfax County area? Make sure you check out the Fairfax County Public School Website for information for the 2010-2011 school year.

Need to know which school your children will attend? Enter your address in the Fairfax County School Boundary link to find out.

If you are still looking for a home in the Springfield VA area or anywhere in Fairfax County give me a call at 703-346-2213. Not only did I attend Fairfax County Schools from kindergarten through high school graduation so did my children. Let me show you the neighborhoods that meet the needs for your family.

You can search for your new home by school on our automated search tool. For example Homes in West Springfield HS boundary*

Not all listings may appear as some agents may not have identified the appropriate school. Always check the information with the official Fairfax County School Boundary information.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

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