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Tuesday, March 30, 2010

8220 Windsor View Terrace - Windsor Hills - $1,100,000

Listed by L&F


Google Map Here

Windsor Hills was built in the late 1970's off Gainsborough Road backing to Cabin John Regional Park. Mostly brick colonials, these homes were built for the "move up" market. There was a need for larger homes for those that grew out of other Potomac communities with smaller homes. This is still a fabulous community with good schools and great location.

This home is one of the nicer homes I have seen in a long time. The home is neat as a pin with great curb appeal. Fresh mulch, edged beds, daffodils blooming - it looks like a postcard from the outside. This lovely vision foreshadows what you find inside.

A formal foyer and beautiful decor greet you as you enter. The paint, furnishings and trim are all impeccable. The rooms are light and updated - all done with good quality materials and good taste. The back of the home has been extended to add a fantastic kitchen. White cabinets galore with high ceilings and plenty of storage. The white subway tile and stainless appliances will please both the cook and designer. This looks like a page out of House Beautiful.

The kitchen looks over to a cozy family room with lots of windows out to the back yard. Although not super large - the yard is fenced and beautifully groomed. Shrubs, flowers and specimen plants will be a great canvas for the artistic gardener.

Upstairs too is pristine. How can kids rooms be so neat? Nicely painted and tidy - you can just move your kids stuff in. The hall bathroom is already updated. There is no need to spend time at Home Depot after buying this home. The master is light, airy and large. The master bath is an oasis after a long day at work.

The basement is fully finished with integrated storage throughout. A full bath and bedroom area for a nanny is no surprise in a home that has everything. there is plenty of room down here for the kids, home theatre and hobbies.

So, what is this worth? I think it is priced fairly at $1.1 million. I will have to hope that my wife does not somehow find this gem - or I may find myself moving. I don't think this one will be on the market for more then a few weeks, if that. Nice job by the homeowner in preparing the home for sale - and the agent for pricing it right.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

2300 Downham Way - Potomac Woods - $769,500

Listed by Coldwell Banker

Google Map Here

Potomac Woods is a lovely community of single family homes on the east side of Falls Road in the Richard Montgomery Cluster. Usually one of the better values in the Potomac market, those who do not mind the Richard Montgomery schools can get a bargain.

This home is the sole resident on Downham Way. Located near the water tower - this home is a corner lot with great curb appeal. A nicely maintained lawn - and painted brick front - this home begs you to come inside.

This is a colonial with a small tile foyer. The living room has been converted into a billiard room - with brown decorative paint and nice patterned carpet. A bar in the corner of the room will make this spot a favorite for pool players. A small powder room with high end vessel sink is lovely. The sink does not convey - and a sign promises it will be replaced before settlement. A small office is adjacent - and opens into a beautiful kitchen extension.

The kitchen is not large but beautifully finished. Granite and high end appliances complement the warm wood cabinetry. Lots of storage and separate pantry with sliding drawers will make any cook happy.

The kitchen opens to a back family room and dining room with skylights and cathedral ceilings. A nice bright room - the drywall will need to be repaired where seams are popping in many spots on the wall. Even with this problem - this is very nice space.

Upstairs are 2 nice size bedrooms and a lovely master suite. One of the bedrooms has been converted to a sitting room for the master. This could be converted back to a fourth bedroom if really needed.

The basement is finished very well. Although not large - the recreation room is well lit and cozy. A great place to watch movies or relax in front of a game. Laundry is also on this level as is a bath with shower. There is also some storage on this level.

This is a very nice house that shows like a model. If it sells at the list price of $769,000 it will be the highest sale in the subdivision in the past year by almost $100,000. This will have a tough time appraising - even if it does sell at full price. Although I am sure that with the improvements made - someone could justify the list price - it will be the most expensive home in the neighborhood.

I think this is a great home - but will have trouble selling at this price. This is more likely to sell in the $700K range when settlement does take place.

Friday, March 26, 2010

7817 Turning Creek Court - Turning Creek - $640,000

Listed by Evers & Co.

Google Map Here

Turning Creek is a lovely enclave of attached homes just off Seven Locks Road across from the Heights School. It backs to Cabin John Creek Park - and is close to all commuter routes, shopping and great schools.

This home was built in 1984 and recently updated. The renovation is very well done and will please the most critical home buyer. You enter on the lower level into a tile foyer. The stairway to the living level is on your left and a powder room on the right. The hall leads you to a large family room that has a nice brick fireplace and windows to the yard.

Upstairs is the main living level. The kitchen is very nicely done with windows in the front looking out towards Seven Locks Road. The white cabinets and high end appliances surround a granite island that serves as a table in the small breakfast area. Although not large - this space is nicely done.

The dining room is large with a bay window looking out the side of the town home. This allows in plenty of light and makes the room look larger. A large living room is along the back. You look out on a lovely slate patio and at least 100 acres of parkland. Nice view - and nice yard for a home of this type.

Upstairs is the sleeping level with 3 bedrooms. The two smaller bedrooms are beautifully painted and decorated. They show very well The smaller bedroom is used as an office and would work as a great nursery. The master is large and light with a nicely updated master bath. Overall - this gets a thumbs up.

The last home to sell here was a year ago and closed at just under $600K. That was a much slower market - with much higher inventory. Although this may be priced a bit high - it is reasonable in this market. This is a turnkey home that needs nothing more then the new buyers furnishings to make it theirs. I see this one selling within 5% of the list price within 30 day.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

10709 Great Arbor Drive - Red Coat Woods - $799,000

Listed by Long and Foster

Google Map Here

Red Coat Woods is located adjacent to East Gate and is the home to many of Potomac's contemporary style homes. With lots of woods and third acre lots - it is a great spot for these 1970 era contemporary homes.

This is a three level contemporary without a garage. You enter between the 1st and 2nd level and walk up to the bright and open main living level. Hardwood floors and natural light allow this open floor plan to shine. A nice dining room and completely redone kitchen are all re-done beautifully. The kitchen gleams with hardwood and granite. Counters wrap around through to the entry of the dining room providing lots of counter space to coffee pots and kitchen toys. Two decks on this level allow you to enjoy the outside air while sipping coffee or enjoying a glass of wine.

The upstairs has 3 nice size bedrooms with volume ceilings. Lots of windows and light in all of these rooms are true to the homes contemporary roots. The hall bath has been nicely updated and is shared by the 3 bedrooms. The master suite is bright and airy with an attached sitting area. A partial update to the Master bath is nice and won't take much to upgrade should the new homeowner decide to.

The downstairs level has a nice family room and office. Both of these rooms have full walls of windows that look out into the woods. Berber carpet is new and looks great in the space.

This home is nicely updated and is priced reasonably. The last similar home settled at $790K and went under contract in a much slower market. For someone that likes contemporary - this is a must see neighborhood and a must see home. This should sell and settle quickly somewhere between $785k and $795K when all is said and done.

Monday, March 22, 2010

12745 Lincolnshire Drive - Potomac Commons - $899,000


Listed by Prudential

Google Map Here

Potomac Commons is a great community of single family homes just west of Falls Road Park. These homes were build in the early 1970's and are a mix of colonials and split levels. This is part of the Wootton High School Cluster - and these homes sell quickly if priced right.

This home is a nice split at the corner of Lincolnshire Drive and North Commons Way. Across from the park - this home has been completely gutted and updated. Much larger than it looks from the outside - this one is worth a look on the inside.

This home needs some TLC on the outside to make it attractive from the street. Amazing what some mulch and pruning to do to update and brighten the landscape.

The home looks great on the interior. Freshly painted and staged - this home shows beautifully. The front rooms are light and airy. The kitchen is completely redone with lovely flooring and beautiful cabinets, granite and appliances. The dining room is large an bright with a bay window further brightening the room.

The lower level is carpeted with a large family room with brick wall fireplace. There is an addition on this home which expands the space on this level. A half bath and large windowed room can be used as a bedroom, guest room or office. An additional small room on this level can be used in any way the buyer likes.

upstairs there are 4 additional bedrooms. The master is very large with tray ceiling and lots of light. The master bath is a beauty - completely new. The other bedrooms are large and bright and the full hall bath is brand new.

The yard on this lot is nicely hardscaped. A patio off the kitchen makes this an inviting space with minimum maintenance. The addition had taken up a good part of the yard so the space here is not large but efficiently utilized.

This home is a beautiful "Gut Renovation". At $899,000 this is one of the higher priced homes in the community - but the work is all done. The corner lot is attractive and the location is fabulous. Is it worth $899K? To someone it is. This may wait around awhile as the price may put some folks off. If they see it - they will understand why it is worth a premium. I see this one going to settlement at $849,000.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

9716 Conestoga Way - Potomac Village - $975,000


Listed By Wc&An Miller

Google Map Here

When looking for a home in Potomac, folks ask me about the good neighborhoods, and where are they? Good neighborhood is going to mean something different to everyone. LOCATION though - is what real estate is all about. This home and neighborhood are in a great location. Close to Potomac Village, the Beltway, Schools and shopping - this neighborhood would be considered "Blue Chip".

This home is located on the bend of Conestoga as it winds around towards Sotweed Drive. This third of an acre lot is flat and nicely landscaped. A circular driveway in front and wide driveway is an attractive feature to this lovely brick colonial.

Built in 1974 - this home is mostly original. The patterned parquet flooring in the foyer is dark and dated but is easily replaced. The foyer is formal and well proportioned. A library and powder room to your right and large freshly painted living room on your right.

There is something nice about buying a home from this era. Although this home badly needs updating - the mouldings are fabulous. Crown moulding, chair railing picture frame mouldings...all very attractive. Painting with updated colors that contrast will make these expensive mouldings "pop". I see lots of potential here.

The back of the home has a family room with fireplace that looks out on the back yard. It is open to the kitchen and breakfast area. This will definitely need update as most is original. The dining room is large with windows to the back. Great traditional floorplan with great flow. There is also a laundry room off the family room behind the garage. This was a very popular floorplan.

This home has 5 bedrooms upstairs. Some of these models use one of the bedrooms as a sitting room for the master bedroom. The master is large with a walk-in closet and two additional closets. A dressing area with sinks are outside the master bath and separate from the BR and Bath. The bath is old with shower, commode and bidet. This was the ultimate in luxury during the 1970's.

The other bedrooms are all large with plenty of light. The hardwood floors are in good shape and would really brighten up with a sanding and new coat of poly. The baths are large and outdated. These will be on the short list for updating.

The basement is large and unfinished with lots of potential. This would be great space to finish, and is wide open to accept any design.

This is a GREAT home that needs some updating. A fabulous floorplan - it could be completely re-done for $150K or less. You would get all of your money out of the upgrade and get to live in a fabulous home to boot. This home is priced well at $975K. It is the cheapest home in a fantastic neighborhood. Take a good look at this home if you want convenience, schools and location. This one has it all. I see this one selling at around $945k when all is said and done. This should sell quickly - so don't wait!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

11701 Slatestone Court - Clagett Farm - $1,250,000

Clagett Farm is finally looking like an established community. Built in the late 1990's - It took a while for the trees to landscaping to mature to really make this community look nice. Located just off Glen Road - this is a community of brick colonials that were really built well.

Every once in a while you walk into a home that looks like a builders model home. This is one of those houses. Great corner location - super landscape and curb appeal - you can't wait to go inside. A two story foyer bathed in light really is stunning. The decor and furnishings are top notch. Hardwood throughout the first level gleams.

A library, large sun-room, family room, dining room and fantastic kitchen are well proportioned and beautifully finished. The kitchen has top notch appliances and will please even the most critical gourmand. The back yard is a bit stunted because of how the home is sited - but the space is finished well. A nice deck - screening plants - spa area all are nicely done.

You can go up by way of a formal front stair - or back stairwell. Both take you to the sleeping level. The master bedroom is large and beautifully finished. Plenty of closet space and large master bath is almost spa-like. The other bedrooms are all good size with one sharing a Jack and Jill bath. The carpet in all of the rooms is high quality (Read high dollar) and tastefully patterned.

The basement is a kids paradise. Fully finished with are away to the back yard - this also has a bedroom and full bath for Nanny or domestic help. The open space is light and inviting. It is very un-basement like.

This is a nice house and fairly priced. The market over $1mm, even in Potomac has suffered the most in the financial meltdown. Larger down payments and higher rates have put off some purchasers. For the person that sells their $800K home in Potomac and wants to move up - you have found your home. This homes value is not about the comps - but the cost to replicate the finish and upgrades. This should go for $1.2mm when all is said and done.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

6 Eaglebrook Court - Potomac Woods East - $787,500

Listed by Long and Foster

Google Map Here

This community is south of Wootton Parkway and West of Seven Locks Road in the Richard Montgomery School Cluster. Built in the late 70's these homes are traditional colonials and splits with a modern flair. Priced right, these homes generally sell quickly because of their great locale and proximity to major commuting routes.

This home looked familiar when I arrived to tour. After walking in - I swore I saw a similar home in the past. I did - This was a home I reviewed in December of 2008. It never sold and was taken off the market. The owners re-did the kitchen with granite and gray tile and now have it back on the market.

Why re-invent the wheel - nothing has changed - Here is what I wrote in 12/08

Built in 1978, this home was way ahead of its time. Cathedral Ceilings, open space and good flow make this home very attractive. With 4 BR and 2.5 Baths, this home has an additional BR and full bath in the finished basement. Total square footage is just over 3700 on three levels.

With new carpet, updated baths and recent paint; this home shows very well. It has great curb appeal and sits on a nice lot that is just under a half acre. A two level deck from the kitchen and family room give nice room for summer entertaining.

The only down side to this home is it's proximity to Seven Locks Road. The home backs to the main road and although fenced, the traffic can be distracting. A city dweller would not even notice the noise. Someone looking for a quiet lot with privacy will be disappointed.

The home is priced at the top of the market. Although it shows very well, it will not get top dollar because of its location. This is about $50K too high. Look for this one to settle around $739K.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

1405 Stratton Drive - Potomac Woods - $700,000

Listed by Long and Foster

Google Map Here

Potomac Woods is on the east side of Falls Road between Dunster and Wootton Parkway. A mix of colonials and splits - most were built in the early 1960's. This is a bargain neighborhood in Potomac. Because it is in the Richard Montgomery School Cluster - you get a lot more for the money then similar properties in Churchill or Wootton districts. Richard Montgomery is still one of the best schools in the State - and houses a renowned IB program. This is a must see community for those that want the Potomac address at a Rockville price.

This home is lovely from the street view. The brick is clean and yard is tidy - even after the prolonged snow. The front door is covered and brings you into a nice marble foyer. Four steps up on the left takes you upstairs to the Living and Dining Rooms with nice wood floors and tasteful paint. The kitchen is modern with granite and nice cabinets. It is small - but very well designed. You step down to a breakfast area with views of a lovely fenced back yard. Two more steps down you are in a great Family Room with Fireplace and sliding door out to a screened porch.

The yard is lovely and would be a haven for dogs or kiddies. A gardener has lived in this home at some point as the bulbs and landscape look great.

The basement is finished with Pergo and provides plenty of extra space.

Upstairs are 3 good size bedrooms that share an updated hall bath. The master bedroom is large for an early 60's house and offers all you need for sleeping and storage.

Overall - this home is a fantastic value. Ready to move in - plenty of built-in cabinets - a turnkey home.

At $700K - this should move pretty quickly. The only thing that may turn folks off is the lack of garage. A 1 car car-port could be easily converted - but what a value. Make an offer on this beauty before too many folks see it. Nice home for the money! This should sell within 5% of list within 30 days.

Friday, March 12, 2010

8804 Wooden Bridge Road - Copenhaver - $810,000

Listed by Long and Foster

Google Map Here

Copenhaver is a fabulous move up community with great location just off Falls Road. Close to all commuter routes, it is a breeze to get to shopping, schools recreation and work. Homes that are priced right in this community sell quickly. This home is no exception.

This is a great brick colonial with integrated one car garage. Nicely maintained on the outside - it has great curb appeal. The main entry is formal and typical of colonials in this community. Wood flooring is in decent shape and runs through the foyer dining room and living room. Both living room and dining room are nicely proportioned with fresh paint and nice mouldings.

The family room is in the back of the home with a sliding glass door out to a fabulous deck. The deck is not wood or wood supported. It is a tiled concrete deck that is supported underneath by brick piers. it is large and inviting. Even more stunning is the view. This lot is fenced and backs to the community walking path. Personally - I think the yard is splendid and one of the best selling features of this home.

The kitchen has been updated in the past - and is laid out well. It will need to be updated but is perfectly functional for those that may need some time to save the funds for updating.

Upstairs leads to an open area in the center of the home. There is room for a sitting area here if you like and the open space to some may seem like a waste. The master bedroom is large with an updated full bath which will please most home buyers. The other bedrooms are all large and share a full bath.

The basement is fully paneled with knotty pine which transports you back to a different time. Clearly out of date - the ceilings have also been covered with pine boarding which makes it somehow look better. The space is large, carpeted and would make a great playroom or home theatre. A slider walks out to the large back yard that I loved so much.

The agents did a great job in pricing this home. This will sell quickly. It shows well, has great bones and a lot of the update has been done. If they get multiple contracts - this can go above list price. Someone smart - who acts quickly - may get this for $790K - which would be a fabulous deal on this home.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

13524 Maidstone Lane - Rivers Edge - $1,095,000

Listed by Weichert


Google Map Here

Rivers Edge is a lovely community of custom homes about 5 miles out River Road from the Village. On mostly 2 acre lots, the homes are mostly upscale and built in the mid-1980's.

This home is one level rambler with a long driveway. The front walk leads you to the formal entry. You step into a large tiled foyer that is large enough to host a cocktail party. The white tile looks great and makes the room seem more expansive. An adjacent Living room is separate and formal and an office to the right side is plenty large for your home business.

The kitchen has been completely redone - with granite counters and nice appliances. It is large with plenty of counter space and a freestanding stainless ventilation hood over the cook top. The counter here overhangs to provide a nice space to eat - or watch the chef prepare dinner while having a pre-dinner cocktail. The granite and cabinets wrap around this area to form a nice butlers pantry. This would be ideal for the home chef with lots of large pots - a cookbook collection - or multiple appliance that need storage.

The breakfast area looks out on the yard - which is ample on this 2 acre lot. This is a nice piece of property with plenty of room for recreation or gardening.

A large Family room with beamed ceilings is great space next to the breakfast area. Hardwood floors are lovely - and the large stone fireplace beautifully anchors the room. What a great spot for the family to get together and watch TV or home theatre.

The living quarters are on the left wing of the home. The master is large and bright with windows all along the back of the home. The bath is nice size and nicely updated. All of the other bedrooms are large and spacious. Hardwood is in fabulous shape and adds a sense of class to all the living space.

The basement is small and not finished to the same level as the upstairs. This is great space for the kids - and is currently set up as a practice space for a band.

This is the same floor plan as a home that sold at 13509 Maidstone earlier this year at $925,000. That home was not updated in the kitchen or baths but had a large full finished basement that was 4 times the size of this property. The lot on that home was not quite as nice as this one - but the other home had a pool and greenhouse. The market is much better now than it was when the other home went under contract. This home at $1,095,000 is a bit aggressive but not unrealistic. I see it going to settlement for just over $1mm when all is said and done.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

10405 Garden Way - Williamsburg Gardens - $899,999

Listed By DJ Banjavic

Google Map Here

Williamsburg Gardens is located just off Falls Road within walking distance to Potomac Village. A mix of home styles and builders, this community is constantly in high demand because of its convenience and fabulous schools.

This is a good looking brick colonial on a level 1.29 acre lot. The house is set back from the street leaving a large front yard and long driveway. The landscaping has been recently pruned back to prepare it for sale - and more work will have to be done when the spring arrives. This is a great canvas for a landscape designer to start from scratch and really make this home shine.

The home was built in 1964 and has good bones. A bit smaller then many in the area - this home was typical size for Potomac when it was a sleepy suburb in the early 1960's. The formal foyer has tile with a large living room on the left and a small dining room on the right. Both have hardwood floors that are in pretty decent shape. A fireplace is centered in the living room and is a focal point for the space.

A stairwell and hall share the space walking back to the kitchen. The tile floor is out of style but easily replaced. The kitchen has been updated in the past - but will need some update from the new owners. Resilient flooring is worn and would be best replaced when the kitchen is redone. The kitchen has a nice breakfast area and is open to a large family room with built in bookshelves and fireplace. A slider leads out to a large screened porch and a big back yard.

There is a passage off the kitchen leading to a side load 2 car garage. A room off this passage is listed as a first floor bedroom - but is better listed as a library or den. Once again - this design is a bit out of date - but has potential for someone with vision that wants a great neighborhood.

Upstairs has 4 bedrooms including a nice size master. The connected master bath had been upgraded in the past - but is past due for another upgrade. The hall bath too will need updating. The other 3 bedrooms are very good size and all have nice hardwood floors.

The basement has been newly carpeted and looks like it was recently drywalled. The carpet is nice - but the finish job on the drywall - especially around the windows is poorly done. Someone will have to re-frame and fix this area to make it right.

This is a nice lot in a great neighborhood. It is tempting at this price to buy the house - knock it down - and put up a much larger home. It is also tempting to put some money into it and keep it as it is. The design is a bit dated but the home is priced to take much of that into consideration. The neighboring home sold in August for $965,000 - and was a bit larger and more recently updated. Because of the low inventory and large lot - this one is not unreasonable as priced.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

8305 River Falls Drive - River Falls - $1,285,000

Listed by WFP

Google Map Here

River Falls is one of the most tightly knit communities in Potomac. Neighborly, well maintained and always in demand - River Falls is on my Top 10 list for communities in 20854.

This home has lovely curb appeal. With a great brick front and Georgian design - this is a beautiful home. Built in 1980 - this home has been beautifully updated and is a "turnkey" home for someone that does not want to deal with renovation.

The foyer of this home is formal with a slate floor. The rest of the first floor is lovely hardwood. With chair rail and crown moulding - the public areas on the main level are nicely done. Paint and decor will please even the most critical of home buyers. All you have to do is move your furnishings in. The kitchen has been completely redone with 42" cabinets and granite counter tops. An island gives plenty of space for food prep and a great place for guests to chat during a dinner party. The owners did a nice job in making this space warm and inviting. The kitchen looks out on a great fenced yard - perfect for those with pets and a those gardeners that want to keep out the deer.

A formal stairway brings you up to the carpeted second level. With 5 bedrooms upstairs and 3 full baths - this home is plenty large. A spacious master suite and updated master bath provides plenty of room for the owners. The other bedrooms upstairs are large and two of them share a Jack and Jill bath. The remaining bedroom would be a great guest room and has a bath to itself. The basement is nicely finished and has an additional bedroom and full bath. This would be perfect for a Nanny or a teenager that wants their space.

Overall this is a lovely home. With Whitman schools and updates already done -it is an attractive option for someone looking in the Potomac market. At $1,285,000 it is priced reasonably. With the market heating up, and inventory low it should sell within 5% of the list price.