8221 Buckspark Lane - East Gate of Potomac - $974,000

Listed by L&F

Google Map Here

My favorite section of the "East Gate of Potomac" subdivision is on the south side of Democracy Boulevard. These homes were built in the mid-1970's and did not follow the contemporary bent of the rest of East Gate. With great schools, location and the Potomac zip code - the community is a winner.

This home is larger than it looks from the outside. The home is currently being spruced up for sale and looks great from the curb. The foyer is large with nice hardwood floors which carry throughout the main level. Updated powder room and nicely re-done kitchen will save time and money for the new owners. Granite counters and island open into a breakfast area and the family room. A slider leads to a large deck overlooking a lovely backyard.

The upstairs has 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths. The baths have been updated but not fully renovated. The yellow, blue and pink tile in these baths remind you the homes were built in the 1970's. The cabinets and fixtures HAVE been updated and do not need immediate attention. Overall a great upstairs.

The basement is large and freshly carpeted. Plenty of space here to utilize in any way you like. A half bath and "bedroom" can house overnight guests and a separate storage area has plenty of room for shelves and boxes.

The last home similar sold earlier in the year at $950k. It had a breakfast room addition but may have been a bit smaller. This one shows well and is priced well. I see the final number somewhere around $945K when the home gets to settlement.

11436 Beechgrove Lane - Bedfordshire - $788,000

Listed by WC&AN Miller

Google Map Here

Bedfordshire is a great community located on the south side of Glen Road - just off Falls Road. Built in 1972 - this community has been a favorite of both first time and move up buyers in the Potomac market.

This home is located on a communal driveway just off Beechgrove Lane. A brick and frame Dutch Colonial - it has nice curb appeal and looks as though it has been well maintained. The foyer is hardwood and the home looks to be freshly painted. Newer beige carpeting lead you through the living room and family room.

The kitchen is original with yellow Formica counter tops and older cabinets. There is a new stainless fridge in the kitchen that could fit into the kitchen upgrade for the new owners. There is a laundry room just off the kitchen and an updated powder room to finish off the first floor.

Upstairs has 3 teen size bedrooms and a larger master bedroom. The master bath seems original with yellow and white tile. There are some replacement windows installed in the upstairs bedrooms - but other windows are original.

The basement is a blast from the past. A faux corner fireplace and burnt orange carpet lining a bar bring you right back into the early 70's. A slider to the backyard brings in light which gives this room lots of potential. There is nice space here to refinish to your liking. The backyard is nice and a manageable size. It backs to some parkland and to adjacent neighbors.

This home will need updating once a new owner gets title. It seems to be in good condition but definitely needs updating. The home will ultimately sell at somewhere near its assessed value. It does not warrant a premium. Others selling in the neighborhood were better outfitted and more up to date. Look for this to sell somewhere between $715k AND $730k.

12069 Gatewater Drive - Fallsberry - $379,900

Listed by Coldwell Banker

Google Map Here

How hard is it to find a 3BR home in Potomac for less than $380K? Pretty hard. Only 3 other homes have sold below $380K in the past year. Whenever I see a list price this low, I am curious to see what you get for the money.

Fallsberry is just off Falls Chapel Road on the west side of Falls Road. It is a community of very nice town homes that were built in the middle of the 1980's by William Berry. At the time - these were upscale town homes that rivaled some single family homes in the area. Overall this is a nice community in the Churchill cluster in a great location.

During the 1980's Montgomery county forced developers to put aside a percentage of each project for moderately priced housing. Called MPDU's - (Moderately Priced Dwelling Units), these homes were typically smaller and hidden away from the main project. The homes could not be sold without restrictions by the purchasers for a period of 10 years. Any profit made on these homes sold before the 10 year period was to be split with Montgomery County and reinvested in the program.

The downside to MPDU units is they generally were 2 levels with 3 bedrooms up and one full bath up. There was generally NOT a powder room on the main level. Anyone needing to use the bathroom had to run upstairs to use it. A small price to pay to be able to swing a home in Potomac and send your kids to Potomac schools, right?

This home is an end unit built behind a grouping of homes on the main street. It is a bit hidden away - which can be good. In this case it is. The home faces a wooded area and has good privacy. The home is frame construction and seems to be in well maintained condition.

The front door takes you directly into the family room and breakfast area. There is a pass through to a recently renovated kitchen with new cabinets and granite counters. The appliances are nearly new - and the kitchen shows beautifully. The home has hardwood throughout the first level.

This home has a powder room adjacent to the kitchen. This is a great (and rare) feature in these homes and makes a big difference in quality of life. Kudos to the forward thinker that added this feature.

The upstairs is typical with 3 small bedrooms and a nicely updated hall bath. There is not much you can do with this limited space. The home is uncluttered and nicely painted. It is ready for new owners to just move their stuff in.

This home is well priced and a great entry into the Potomac market. There will ALWAYS be a market in Potomac at the lower price point. The last home similar to this sold a year ago for $369K. The market was not as good back then and that home did NOT have a powder room on the first floor. I see this one selling at close to list within 60 days. Nicely done!

9321 Reach Road - Fallsreach - $899,000

Listed by W.C. & A.N. Miller

Google Map Here

Much of Fallsreach was built in the late 1970's and has established itself as one of the nicer neighborhoods in Potomac. Although there are many homes here that have never been updated, many have been beautifully remodeled. This one had been lovingly and tastefully upgraded and is a "must see".

This home looks great from the street. With a nice yard and well maintained exterior it has great "curb appeal". The home looks like it does not have a garage from the street. There is not a driveway - per se - in front of the home. This home has a communal driveway at the property line that leads you to a garage behind the home underneath the house.

The foyer is open and lovely. Tasteful paint and decor highlights the extensive mouldings. Hardwood gleams and continues throughout the first level. A large office on the right side is filled with built in bookcases. The living room on the left side is large and bright.

The kitchen is a "Chef's Kitchen". A pot rack over the center island is a beautiful focal point. Copper pots are a nice touch - it seems as though the owner is really a chef. The dining room is adjacent and is nicely proportioned. The family room on the other side of the kitchen is large with a beautiful fireplace centered on the side wall. A large deck in the rear is a nice spot for a glass of wine in cooler times.

Upstairs has 3 teen size bedrooms - all tastefully done. The master bedroom and bath have been updated and look great. The hardwood floors are throughout the upper level and really shine. This upstairs should please the most picky buyers.

The basement is finished and is bright and open. This could be used for a home theatre, a playroom or home office.

This home is priced right and is a good value in Fallsreach. It should not be around long as it is shows better then most of the competition at this time. Look for this to sell reasonably quickly within a few percent of offer price.

12720 Huntsman Way - Potomac Commons - $1,150,000

Google Map Here

Every once in a while I go to see a home that makes me say "WOW!".

When you know the neighborhoods as well as I do, you make assumptions of what a home is going to look like before you get there. Renovated and Expanded are descriptors in listings that you really must take with a grain of salt. Some agents use these terms loosely - so you really have to see a home to determine how renovated and how expanded.

Potomac Commons is a lovely neighborhood back behind Hadley's Park. I was curious to see what $1,150,000 would buy me here, as the price tag seemed high for this neighborhood.

The house is on a corner lot and has great curb appeal. The yard is beautifully maintained with a green lawn and nicely trimmed landscape. The home is also neatly kept - with a lovely side entry garage that makes the home profile look large.

There is a hardscape path in the front of the home leading you to the front door. The foyer is large and well lit with marble tile set on a diagonal. The mouldings are upgraded with crown and picture frame moulding that carries through the stairwell going up. There is a renovated powder room in this front hall with upgraded cabinetry and stone counter tops.

An office with extensive built in shelving is to your right and a large dining room to your left. Both rooms are beautifully decorated with tasteful paint and wall treatments.

As you walk through the hall towards the back of the home you will be stunned. A large addition with cathedral ceilings acts as a family room. Lots of windows and a slider to a stone patio let in lots of light. A large formal "bar" room with a extensive bar and back bar fills the room. This room is nicer than many bar areas in some of the top restaurants in D.C. Three lovely hanging light fixtures and a tin tray ceiling make this room a stunner.

The kitchen and large breakfast room is adjacent to this space and has been completely redone. With glazed cabinets and granite counters this kitchen will be the envy of all of the cooks in the neighborhood. With top end appliances and hardwood floors this kitchen shows like a model. This space is very well done.

There is also a large laundry room and exterior exit adjacent to the garage. The access door here leads out to a fenced area covered with AstroTurf for the dog. What a nice touch and will be attractive to any pet owner.

A large stone patio in the back is a beautiful private oasis. With a large water feature and plenty of room for outdoor furniture - this is a great hideaway or a wonderful place to entertain. A path around the side of the house has a hidden putting green to allow the golfer in the family time to sharpen their skills. What a nicely thought out exterior.

Upstairs has 3 teen size bedrooms and a large master. Both the hall bath upstairs and the master bath are completely redone. The carpet is in great shape and the paint is fresh and neutral.

The half basement is nicely finished and has a full bath. There is a room currently used for storage that is finished and could certainly house a nanny. Although not a full basement - the large addition upstairs minimizes the need for a large finished basement.

This home shows beautifully. A lot of thought was given to the renovation and the decorating and paint are superb. The furnishings fit the space and are informal enough where you feel at home instead of like being in a model home.

This is currently the most expensive home in Potomac Commons. It is also the nicest I have seen. I think the list price is a bit high for the neighborhood but it is NOT a crazy number. Someone looking for a beautiful neighborhood and a "turnkey" home where all the renovations are complete this may be perfect. The price may not be an issue. My concern is getting an appraiser to agree with the value to allow a normal mortgage loan on the property.

I think that the home is worth up to $1.1mm and I would not be surprised to see a contract come in at this number. I will also not be surprised to see it settle at a lower number that may be caused by a low appraisal. The listing agent will have to put some time in to find comps that will make sense to an appraiser and support the value.

Time will tell on this one. It is definitely worth seeing. I have added a link for the Virtual Tour. Be sure to take a peek!

See the Virtual Tour HERE!

12225 Seline Way - Fallsreach - $964,000

Listed by L & F

Google Map Here

This is a lovely brick home on a quiet court in Fallsreach. Sited on a third acre, this 1984 home has held up beautifully. Well maintained - this home has nice curb appeal on a safe cozy cul-de-sac.

The large foyer is open and light. Patterned ceramic tile is a bit dated, but high quality. The large living room is hardwood with plenty of windows and light. An office off the foyer is a great spot to pay bills or work from home. The family room is hardwood with a lovely stone fireplace centered on the side wall. The updated kitchen is adjacent with tile floor and granite counter top.

The dining room is typical for a home in this price range with hardwood and upgraded mouldings. A covered screen porch is a nice escape from the summer mosquitoes and provides shelter from the cool fall wind. A large deck runs the full length of the house and is a great place for a party. The home has good flow for entertaining.

Upstairs has 3 teen size bedrooms and an upgraded master suite. The master bath is a step up from the master and is beautifully redone. Glass block shower room and nice cabinets will please most home buyers. The hall bath has also been redone nicely.

The basement is finished and currently used as a home office. There is a slider out to a slate patio and the windows allow light to brighten a normally dark basement area. There is more space than meets the eye here. The space is broken up into small rooms to suit the current owners needs. Some of these partitions can be removed to allow a lot larger expanse in this area.

This is a nice home and a quality neighborhood. The Churchill cluster schools are a big draw. The home is priced aggressively compared to past sales. I see this one settling closer to $915,000 when settlement occurs.

9400 Reach Road - Fallsreach - $899,000

Listed by WFP

Google Map Here

This is a nice colonial on a corner lot in sought after Fallsreach. Built in 1982 - this home has been well maintained. The center foyer is hardwood and is typically formal. The living room is large and dining room is well lit. The colors and wallpaper throughout this first floor are dated and probably original.

The kitchen is large and has plenty of room for a family size table. The resilient flooring and Formica counter tops are original. It looks like some of the appliances have been updated and would easily shift over to a new kitchen should the new owner decide to upgrade.

The upstairs has 3 good size bedrooms and a nice master suite. The baths are original and are looking a bit tired. The wallpaper theme continues and cost to remove will have to be factored into any offer.

The basement is finished and has good light. There is an exterior exit to the front driveway which is a nice touch. This is also where you would enter the 2 car garage. There is space here for a TV and gaming area - but the garage on this level limits your finished space.

This home has good bones but will need updating. The corner lot shows nicely, but the home is sited on a diagonal which limits your usable yard space. The price point below 900K will certainly generate interest. Any offer though will also take into consideration the amount it will take to bring this home up to date. Look for this one settling between $850K to $870K when the ink dries.

2508 Stratton Drive - Montgomery Square - $729,500

Listed by L & F

Google Map Here

Montgomery Square is lovely community located north of Montrose Road and East of Falls Road. Built in the late 1960's - this is one of the few remaining "affordable" communities in the Potomac zip code.

This is a lovely home on one of my favorite streets in Montgomery Square. With a brick front and extended concrete driveway - this home has nice curb appeal. Although it does not have a garage - the extended concrete drive leaves plenty of space for 2 cars.

This home has been completely updated. Windows, door hardware, switch plates, kitchen - nothing has been spared. This is a true turnkey opportunity for someone that wants an established neighborhood without the time consuming and expensive upgrading.

The colors of the fresh paint are very tasteful and timely. The carpet and decor are timeless and show very well. The kitchen is lovely with new maple cabinets and stainless Kitchen Aid appliances. The hardwood is in great shape and a large office on the first floor is perfect for someone that works out of the home.

The bedrooms upstairs are all nicely decorated and decent size. The floorplan has been reworked here to provide additional space in the master bath. It is large then most, and the space taken from the adjacent room is unnoticed.

The basement is partially finished and has room for TV and game boxes. A wall of closets can keep the kids games organized and clutter off the floors.

The yard is fenced and nicely maintained. There is a shed for tools and mowers that would normally stay in a garage. This is a nice spot for a summer cook out for all of your friends and neighbors.

With all of this said - the upgrades come at a price. At $729,500 the homeowners are looking to get every penny they spent for upgrades back out of this home. In the Churchill school cluster this price would be a no-brainer. In the Walter Johnson cluster - it is going to be tough to get this price - even if it is offered. The house a few doors down sold at $50K less just a few months back. A home on Atwell sold at $730K in May - but it had a nice addition on the back and carport which this home is lacking. Although this home has great upgrades, the appraisal will be tough, even if the price is offered.

This is a good home to watch. The tasteful upgrades may lure someone to pay the price. If they do, it will mean good things for everyone else in Montgomery Square. More likely - it will settle between $690K and $710K when all is said and done.

I'm Back ! Time to Focus on Potomac Once Again!

CHINA!

I have been on a sabbatical for the past few months from my reviews.

Things have been incredibly busy ~ and I have had the opportunity to sell a whole lot of Real Estate.

I spent the month of July in China with my 2 beautiful daughters. They have been raised in the award winning Chinese Immersion Program at Potomac Elementary ~ and wanted some practice.

Thank-you to all my loyal readers for your patience. I will be back this week with new reviews and ongoing advice.

If you are ready to purchase or ready to sell your property ~ I am ready to assist. Shoot me an e-mail for a personalized and no obligation ~ confidential~ appointment.

I look forward to hearing from you!

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.

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.

1390 Canterbury Way - Potomac Woods - $539,900

Listed by Weichert

Google Map Here

Potomac Woods is a mix of small colonials and splits on the north side of Montrose Road. Built in 1964 - this home has been updated but will need some additional TLC.

Potomac woods is a nice neighborhood in a great location. Located in the Richard Montgomery Cluster - the home is less expensive then those of similar size with Churchill or Wootton High Schools. This neighborhood is fabulous for those who want the 20854 zip code without the Potomac price.

This home is brick and frame on a quiet street. The home seems to be well maintained from the exterior and has decent curb appeal.

The foyer is open to the living room and dining room and is hardwood throughout. The bay window and back slider have been updated with double paned glass at some time in the recent past. The far wall in the main rooms is painted paneling. Although the paint on the paneling updates the look - all of the walls in this home are in need of pointing up and paint.

The kitchen has been updated with dark tile on the floor and a recent countertop upgrade. The cabinets are newer with some type of dark reddish cherry stain. All appliances except for the range have been recently replaced. The walls in this room also need pointing up and paint. It could also use a thorough cleaning. They left some decorative beams in the ceiling area. They don't match the cabinetry and should be stained to match or removed.

Downstairs in the family room there is a fireplace with full brick wall. Pergo has been installed as flooring here and in the back utility room. The lowest level of the basement is unfinished and houses the furnace and water heater. There is also plenty of space for storage on this level.

There is brown carpeting on the stairs to the upper level that looks like it is older. There is an odor as you walk up to the stairs that is emanating from the hall bath. I don't know what this is, but it is strong and offensive. Something should be done to get rid of or at least calm this issue. Any potential buyers should investigate the cause to be sure there is no long term issue that will come back to haunt them.

The bedrooms are typical for a 1960 split. They are small but serviceable. The baths are in rough shape and should be on the top of the "to-do" list. Maybe gutting the hall bath will solve the odor problem. The brown carpet should also be taken up, especially if there is hardwood below. I'd rather see hardwood with stains then older brown carpet.

This is a short sale that at one point was under contract. Although priced attractively, this will need some work to make it nice. It would sell faster and at a higher price with a good cleaning and coat of paint. This should go for between $510K and $520K when the ink dries.

11427 Bedfordshire Avenue - Bedfordshire - $899,000

Listed by WFP

Google Map Here

Bedfordshire is a lovely community off Glen Road built in the 1970's. Typical of the era, there is a nice mix of splits and colonials on 1/4 acre lots.

This is a good looking home from the exterior with nice curb appeal. This split level has been well maintained with nice landscape that could use a little grooming.

The foyer is open with hardwood floors. The kitchen is updated with white tile floors. There is a nice size dining room and living room. The family room is filled with lovely paintings with bright colors. The home shows well, almost feels like a gallery with all of the artwork on the walls.

The home has been enlarged in the back. You look out to a back yard with lovely pool and fenced yard. Hardscaping and retaining walls will appeal to those with an aversion to yard work.

The additional space added to this house really shows in the upstairs Master Bedroom. You enter into a sitting room - which is currently being used as an artist studio. Skylights bring in great natural light, even on this dreary day. You step up to the master bedroom and bath which has been nicely upgraded. This space feels very private and insulates you from the outside world. Nicely done!

The other three bedrooms upstairs are decent size and also show well.

The lower level of the split has an additional bedroom and full bath. The stairs take you down to the lowest basement level which may be spacious, but is filled with clutter and boxes. It would be nice to see this space empty to get a better perspective of how the room would work for a perspective buyer.

Overall this is a nice house with a great addition. It was reduced from its initial price of $925k. It may have to be reduced further to sell in this market. The last sale of an updated split went for $768K (net) in August. This comp was on a half acre lot and also had an addition.

This home on Bedfordshire Avenue was purchased for 800K March of 2005 at the height of the market. 8250K may be the right price for this home to get it sold. Although my heart breaks for those folks that bought in 2005-2006 at the height of the market. Reality dictates that to get the home sold, you have to be aggressive.

Potomac Secret Agent hits 200 Reviews

WHERE have you been? Have you stopped reviewing? Are you out of the business?

Goodness, you never know how much people care about what you write until you don't!

In the midst of taking care of my wife and kids, my existing clients, my personal business and all of the unplanned events of a week - I write.

Sometimes for reasons beyond my control I get so busy, the blog becomes secondary. With that said - I am back in the saddle and am celebrating my 200th review since starting this website almost a year ago.

The truth is, what is causing my absence is a incredibly strong market. I have put in three offers since my last post and have negotiated 2 offers for my listings. Between home inspections, contingency removals, open houses and showings...there was not time to write. This is very good for Potomac homeowners, as it foreshadows an improving market. It is a warning to those that have been sitting on the sidelines, as homes will be moving more quickly and at higher sales prices.

The inventory in Potomac for homes under $1mm (Yes, that is Million) is less then 2 months. This means that any home priced within reason will go under contract quickly. I wish I could say the same was true for homes over $1mm. There is almost a 2 year supply. Any home that needs to sell is going to have to be priced aggressively and marketed strongly.

You will find over the next few months that my reviews will be weighted towards the under $1mm selections. This is obviously where the action is, and I want my readers to be up to speed when making an offer or preparing to search. As always, if there is a question about the viability or value of ANY property in Potomac - e-mail me and I will take a look and report. This is meant to be a DYNAMIC site where input from readers is highly encouraged and is generally helpful to all.

Most important is that you know I can represent you in all of the tri-state area, not just Potomac. I chose Potomac because I live here and am raising a family here. It is important that I am intimately aware of what is on the market, and if the price is fair. More then half of my sales are outside of the Potomac Zip Code. Don't hesitate to request me to find you a home anywhere in Maryland, DC or Virginia.

OK, I have explained where I have been and where we are going. Isn't it time for you to get off the couch and start shopping?

9404 Tobin Circle - McAuley Park - $1,245,000

WC & AN Miller

Google Map Here

McAuley Park is a lovely upscale community off of Bradley Boulevard where Potomac borders Bethesda. Halfway between the beltway and Potomac Village, the location is very desirable. Homes here will get a premium over similar communities deeper in Potomac.

This home is just off Kentsdale Drive across from Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. It is all brick and roofed with nice architectural shingles. With nicely manicured landscape this home has great curb appeal.

This 2 story colonial is traditional in layout with the exception of a spacious 2 story foyer. The floors are dark oak and run throughout the first floor. The living room has a fireplace with marble surround with lovely chair rail and crown moulding. Behind the living room is a small room with a wet bar. It could be used as a library or office. The kitchen is open and spacious. The kitchen will need an update. It has quality cherry cabinets, but dated corian tops and resilient sheet good flooring. There is a large laundry room behind the garage with cabinet storage and access to the outside.

The stairwell in the foyer leads you to an open landing overlooking the foyer. There are 2 smaller bedrooms to your left and a single larger bedroom to the right. The 2 bedrooms share a Jack and Jill style bath and the larger single bedroom is adjacent to a separate hall bath.

The master suite is at the top of the landing towards the back of the home. This is a suite, with sitting room, an upgraded full bath with skylight and plenty of closet space. The space seems somewhat flexible, as I was not initially sure which room in the suite holds the bed. I see this as a plus. You can have a small room with bed and large as a sitting room, or visa versa.

The basement is finished with a nice masonry fireplace and full bath. There is a room with French Doors that is semi-private. There is direct access to the bath from this room. This access would be a great spot for a guest bedroom or nanny bedroom. There is plenty of storage in an unfinished area as well as an area way for direct access to the rear yard.

This floor plan is super and home is well built. It is a shame the owners did not invest $10,000 to make this star shine. It would allow the home to show much better and make it easier to garner top dollar. In my opinion the $10K investment would yield a net price $40K to $50K higher. As it sits, I see this house settling for between $1.10 and 1.125mm.

1509 Kersey Lane - Horizon Hill - $639,000

Listed by Weichert

Google Map Here

This home is locate just off Falls Road in the community of Horizon Hill. Located in the Richard Montgomery school cluster, this community is well maintained and a must see for first time Potomac buyers.

This home has nice curb appeal With partial brick and a porch covering the front door, the elevation is both pretty and practical.

The foyer is dark hardwood and formal in nature. The balance of the first floor is also hardwood, but lighter in color. The Living room and dining room are nicely painted and well maintained. The kitchen has been renovated with granite countertops and small breakfast area. The family room has a fireplace and stucco treatment on the walls. French doors lead you to a deck overlooking a small backyard.

The upper level has a master and 3 additional bedrooms. The bedrooms are kid size and are serviced by a hall bathroom. The master is nicely updated and should satisfy most homebuyers in this price range.

The basement is finished with indoor/outdoor style carpet. There is a full bath and plenty of space for the family. There is room for a large TV or playroom for the kids.

This is a nice home in the ever popular Horizon Hill neighborhood. Kersey Lane is busy during peak travel times during the day. This will be a factor in marketing this home. The yard too, although well kept, is small - especially in the back where it slopes steeply near the rear of the property. The market for homes in Potomac below $700K has been very strong this Fall. Sales are brisk, and prices in this segment are rising. Although priced a bit high at $639K, this should bring between $610K and $620K once settled.

10417 Grey Fox Road - Glen Meadows - $1,499,000

Listed by Long and Foster

Google Map Here

Glen Meadows is a community of upscale homes built in 2001. With lot sizes around a half acre and larger, it is a community of brick homes with lots of curb appeal.

This is a pretty home. All brick and a side load 3 car garage makes it look huge. Located on a pipe stem lot, this home is a turn key purchase ready for your furnishings.

This is "Mitchell and Best's" largest model with every possible bump out. A beautiful 2 story foyer welcomes you into a bright nicely decorated home. Beautiful hardwood gleams throughout the first floor and plenty of windows let in lots of natural light. Upgraded moulding in these rooms add to the upscale feel of this home.

All the rooms on the first level seem oversize, in a good way. When builders offer a "bump out" option, it is usually for good reason. It adds a great deal to the space; both actual and perceived. The rooms are spacious and high ceilings only add to the feel of openess. The kitchen is fabulous. Everything you would expect in a home in this price range. A back stairway provides informal access to the living area upstairs.

The upstairs has 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths. 2 of the bedrooms share a bath Jack and Jill style. The other bedroom is en-suite and the master is large and beautiful. A dramatic tray ceiling defines the space and adds volume to an already spacious room. Dual walk-in closets will please the most critical clothes horse. The master bath has both shower and separate tub for a relaxing oasis away from the world.

The basement is fully finished and features two bedrooms and a full bath. This gives you from for both a housekeeper and a nanny. Why not live the luxury life in this luxury home?

The basement is nicely finished with a walk out to the large back yard. With an incredible amount of space there is still room left for a home theatre, game room, and for my money, a wine cellar.

This is one of the nicer homes currently listed in this community and will probably be the first to sell.

This home has been reduced from $1,599,000, to $1,499,000. In this market, it will be difficult to find an offer this high. Although I feel this is the best of the bunch on the market now, this will have to be reduced to draw interest. A similar home without the bump-outs just settled on 9/30 for $1,279,000 (originally listed at $1.47mm) Another home in this community (Maybe a little smaller) sold on 4/30/09 for $1.28mm. This one could fetch $1.4 if the right buyer comes along.

9229 Paddock Lane - Potomac Commons - $795,000

Listed by Weichert

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Potomac Commons is built along Watts Branch Stream Park off of Falls Road. This community has a mix of house styles, and was built in the late 1960's through the early 1970's. You may sometimes see this advertised as "Fox Hills West" as many of the colonial style homes were also built on the "East" side of Falls Road in the Fox Hills community.

This is a lovely lot. Located on a corner with a nicely tended yard, the home has nice curb appeal. With red brick and a two car garage, this style is ever popular in the Potomac area. The slate path brings you to the front past mature landscape. While lovely, the shrubs could use a trim as they are a bit overgrown.

The formal foyer is white tile and typical for this style home. Living room has pink carpet that is reminiscent of the Miami Vice era. This color scheme prevails in the home and will need updating. The family room has a nice brick fireplace and hardwood. The kitchen is blue Formica with decent white cabinets. While serviceable, the kitchen will need updating soon. The tile floor that goes throughout the kitchen and mud/laundry room is out of style and will be a bear to replace. The breakfast area opens to a lovely deck. This would be a great spot to bring breakfast or dinner outside to enjoy the elements.

The upstairs has 3 teen size bedrooms with an original tiled hall bath. The Master bedroom bath has been updated but the time is near to do it again. The 1984 era sea foam green Corian tops clash a bit with the sponge painted walls.

The basement is large with a walkout slider. The floor is nicely painted and it looks good for a basement. This has great potential to be finished when the time comes.

You know, it may sound like I am being critical, but I like this house and the lot it sits on. It has good "bones" and is a fabulous candidate for a face lift. With all this said, this home will be an ongoing project. Nothing needs to be done immediately, but all will ultimately need to be updated. It is no bargain at the asking price of $795K. I think this will end up in the $750K range when all is said and done.

7904 Crestdale Drive - Potomac Crest - $798,900

Listed by Long and Foster

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The Potomac Crest community is all about location. At the intersection of Seven Locks Road and Tuckerman Lane, it is close to everything. Built in the mid 1990's, the community is just coming into its own. A mix of town homes and single family, this is a great newer community with great schools and good looks.

This town home was built in 1996. It has been beautifully maintained and has lots of room on the interior. The steps up to the front door lead you to a spacious and open living room. You step up to the dining room with custom ceiling lights. The kitchen is in fabulous condition with granite counter tops and nice wood cabinets.

French doors lead you from the kitchen to a large deck in the backyard. There is a large tree that provides some privacy in the back, but should be removed. It is overgrown and is now more of a bother then an asset. Removal of the tree in my opinion will only make this back yard area better.

The upstairs has two teen size bedrooms and a large hall bath. The master bedroom is large with walk in closet, and the master bath is spacious although somewhat dated with stock light fixtures and gold trim on mirrors. This is an easy cosmetic fix for a nice floor plan.

The basement is fully finished with a step down room that can be used as a bedroom or family room. There are walkout doors to the backyard that provides access. A door to the large 2 car garage brings you in to the top landing of this floor. A full bath and wet bar complete the space.

This one has been on the market for a while. Originally priced at $849,900 it has since been reduced to under $800K. This price cut should bring in offers on this home. I see this one now selling quickly for between $760K and $775K.

8808 Stonehaven Court - Highland Stone - $699,000

Listed by Realty Connection

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Located just off Coldstream Lane in the community of Highland Stone, this home is a nice find. With lovely curb appeal, this brick colonial draws you in. Nice landscaping leads you to a porched entry with highly carved wood door.

The foyer is tiled and open and makes you feel welcome. The living room is hardwood and painted vivid red. The painted white crown and base moulding pops in contrast to this bold decor and looks great. The dining room is a mix of red paint and wallpaper. The kitchen is updated with tile floor and white cabinets. A laundry area is off the kitchen as well as the single door garage entry. The family room is cozy with a fireplace and windows to the back yard. A deck in the back overlooks a nicely landscaped yard.

Upstairs has four bedrooms that are all good size. The bold decor continues with brightly painted bedrooms - Pink, Orange, Lavender - it will certainly appeal to kids or the younger crowd. The master is updated with a nice master bath and shower.

The basement is large and nicely finished. A door to the outside brings light in and makes it truly livable space. A full bath and recently carpeted and updated TV room finished off the space.

This is a nice home with lots of updated and upgraded space. They are not out of line asking $699K, but will have to settle for a bit less to settle. I see this one going to settlement between $650K and $670K.