9416 Copenhaver Drive - Copenhaver - $659,900

Listed By Rosselle Realty Services

Potomac has the reputation of being an affluent suburb of Washington, D.C. Many of my buyers are surprised to hear that some of the homes here are short sales and foreclosures. The difficulties of the economy over the past few years has hit everyone hard. Potomac has not been excluded from the pain.

This home is located in the Copenhaver community. Copenhaver is on the Northwest side of Falls Road and is a lovely community of single family homes. Home of Cold Spring Elementary - this is a sought after community because of the gifted and talented program based there. It is also conveniently located close to all Potomac has to offer.

This home is a foreclosure and needs some TLC. The home has 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths on the main level. Built in 1973 - it has somewhat of a contemporary - open feel.

The main entrance has hardwood throughout the family room and kitchen. In decent condition - it shows well in the broad open family room. The kitchen is off on the right side - and has been updated in the past. Granite counter tops and updated fixtures can use some design help to make the kitchen more open. A large breakfast area and signature large brick fireplace is one of the best features of this model.

The bedrooms are quite dated. The carpet is old and worn and will need replacement. Some of the rooms have been poorly painted - and do not show well. One of the bedrooms has been converted to an office - and is a good fit for a buyer that does not need the additional sleeping quarters.

The basement is finished in wood panelling. The look is dated, but new paint technology allows paint to adhere to the panelling for a inexpensive updated look - and brightened impression. A full size brick bar takes up a large corner of the room. With a new counter top this could be impressive. Those that want to remove the bar are in for some backbreaking work. This is REAL brick!.

A laundry area is hidden in the back corner of the basement in an unfinished corridor. The home has been french drained and the in-ground basement smelled dry.

The yard is a bit overgrown - which is not unusual with bank owned property. With some time and money - the yard can be brought back to its original glory.

This home has good bones and would be a great project for someone looking to get into Potomac at a reasonable price point. The last few homes that sold of this model were in significantly better condition. This one has been priced to reflect this - and could end up being a good value. The bank may look at offers of significantly less than list price if contingencies are limited. Someone willing to take the time and effort (and cash) to update this home will be rewarded in the future. A cash offer could possibly get this home at it's assessed value of $633,880.

10129 Colebrook Avenue - Bedfordshire - $780,000

Listed by WC & AN Miller

Google Map Here

This partial brick colonial home is located in Bedfordshire - a lovely community in the Winston Churchill School Cluster. Because of its close in location and blue ribbon schools - this community is always in demand for both first time and move up buyers. Many of the homes in this community have been upgraded beautifully. Homes that are original are also sought after so the new owners can put their personal stamp on the property. Driving through - you will always see homes in various stages of renovation.

You enter this home into a small foyer with beige octagonal tile. There is a living room to the left and family room to the right - both with hardwood floors. The kitchen is in the rear of the home - and has been nicely upgraded with green granite and updated black appliances. There is a lovely tile back splash in the kitchen that really looks great. Nice job by the previous owners.

A dining room abuts the kitchen on the left side with a nice window looking out into the yard. On the other side of the kitchen is a laundry area and mud room that leads out to the two car garage. There is a large deck out back which will be a great spot for sharing a beer or glass of wine on cool summer nights.

The stairwell upstairs leads to a narrow foyer, typical of homes of the time. The master bedroom is decent size with an original master bath. The white and yellow tile is a blast from the past. Although functional - many new homeowners will want to update the master in short order.

The basement is finished with carpet and is nice an open. A large granite bar is a bit out of place, but I am sure a welcome addition during a party. An side room would be a great place for a large screen TV and surround sound. The space is dated, but does have a lot of potential. Additional storage separate from the finished space is a great asset for a home of this size.

Overall this is a nice home with good structure. It will need some work - but the downstairs "public" area is in nice condition. The baths upstairs, and updating the basement can be done when funds allow it, and will be out of site of company while being done. In my opinion it is a bit aggressively priced at $780,000. Based upon other sales in the area and condition - this should sell somewhere in the $720,000 to $735,000 range.

11404 Falls Road - Bedfordshire - $1,299,000

Listed by L&F

Google Map Here

There is no lack of new construction in Potomac. Especially in the upper brackets. Finding new homes closer in is a more difficult task. Under $1.3mm? Very tough.

These three lots are tucked in between Har Shalom Synagogue and Falls Road Golf course. This pipestem of three lots in adjacent to, and face the fire station on Falls Road.

The home has nice curb appeal from Falls Road - with a brick front and Colonial styling so beloved in Potomac. The half acre lot is nicely graded with a nice front lawn and a bermed side yard to cut down noise from busy Falls Road.

The foyer is spacious and open with a lovely curved stairwell open to the second floor. The shiny wood floor is expansive - and when the house is vacant - makes the space look HUGE. The Living room is to the right with pretty crown mouldings and tasteful paint. A library with french doors is to the right - perfect for a home office or listening room. A mud room leads out to the 3 car garage and powder room compete the front of the home. The kitchen is center and back - and is a splendid view from the foyer. Granite and tasteful tile backsplash grabs your attention. A full outfit of GE Monogram appliances is a nice accent in this state of the art kitchen. A breakfast room with windows on three sides is a great place for coffee and the newspaper on lazy Sunday mornings.

The family room is adjacent and open to the kitchen. What a great entertaining space! High ceilings and a gas fireplace will make this room a family favorite. Even the largest furniture will fit in this space without issue.

You can head upstairs via the back stairwell to the living area. A MBR suite starts with a nice sitting room. You enter into the bedroom which is perfect sized. So many homes in Potomac have lost "balance" in their scale. This one has it down pat. The master bath is large enough to please the most discriminating bathroom nut. Dual walk in closets finish the space. All the remaining bedrooms are large. Two share a buddy bath and the last has it's own full bath en-suite. There is also a large space in the hall upstairs for "gathering". Think of a great spot for a couch or comfy chair and reading lamp. A great spot for a gaggle of teen girls to sit and gossip or have a study circle. It can also be walled off easily for a 5th bedroom.

The basement is fully finished with berber carpet. A large Nanny suite, a home theatre room and a large play room make good use of the space. A large and wide walk out - areaway - leads to the backyard and supplies good natural light.

So what do I think of this home? I like it. For those that want new construction - it is a must see. For those that don't care as much about new - well - there may be better values to see. $1.3mm is not super expensive by Potomac standards - but will still buy you a lot of house. Some NICE homes too.

The only down side to this lot is the location along Falls Road and proximity to the fire station. Noise will be a factor on the outside of the home. I did not hear a lot inside. Overall - I give this home high marks. It should sell for close to list price.

9426 Thrush Lane - Williamsburg Gardens - $1,195,000

Listed By Maryland REO

Google Map Here


Williamsburg Gardens is a lovely community of single family homes southwest of Potomac Village just off Falls Road. Built in the early 1960’s – this neighborhood has been a fantastic place to live for generations. Many kids that grew up here are bringing their families back to have the same wonderful experience. You can see the ongoing renovation projects all through the neighborhood as owners bring their homes up to date.

This is a larger Rambler built on a concrete slab. There is no basement – so the rooms tend to “ramble” over the lot. This has plenty of space. Tax records show just over 4000 square feet. It has been added onto over the years, and is still pretty much up to date with modern kitchen and baths.

The home was sold to the current owners in December of 2006 for $1,059,000. Although this was not the height of the market – prices were still somewhat inflated. The owners put quite a bit of work into the exterior of the property. Extensive professional landscaping and fencing made a bit difference in how it looks. A large circular driveway makes it easy to get to the front entry – and has room for quite a few cars.

The foyer is central and is floored in colored slate that was typical in the early 1960’s. The dining room is to the immediate right side which you must pass through to get to the updated kitchen. The white cabinets and tile countertop are showing their age – but still look good. The original garage was adjacent to the kitchen and was probably one car. This space has been opened up to the kitchen giving it more of an open, modern feel. It was used in the past for an office and family room. A counter overhangs into this room from the kitchen – and would be the typical place for guests to chat while entertaining.

There is a large 2 car garage just off this room with an entry door. This is a nice way to bring in the groceries after shopping in the village. A laundry area is on the back side of the kitchen. This room is open and has shelving, storage and a place to fold laundry.

The living area on the right side of the home has a large living room off the foyer. A bedroom and updated bath could be used as a master bedroom. There is a fireplace at the bedroom entry and a sitting area as well. The baths were updated at some point in the recent past – but are a little dated. A bit of updated hardware and fresh paint could bring them right back up to speed. No need for renovation. Another smaller bedroom is adjacent to this large bedroom.

The back side of the house has a full hall bath – with interesting stand up bath – probably at one time used for an elderly resident. It was probably expensive to install – but won’t be to everyone’s taste. A second large bedroom and bath could be a second master suite or nice guest suite. There is much more room in this house than meets the eye.

A family room or open library is tucked in between the front and back bedroom areas. Sliders give you access to patio area in the back yard.

The interesting and unusual feature to this house is an addition on the back that houses an indoor pool. It is not a wading pool, but a lap pool. When turned on the pool generates a current that you swim into. You literally “swim in place” to get in your daily exercise. This is a great feature for someone that loves to swim – and an expensive add on to a home.

Overall – this is a nice home. The corner lot has been beautifully landscaped and it would not take much to update the kitchen and baths to the current decade. When they put this home on the market at $1,300,000 early last year – I assumed that it was gutted and brought up to date. This is not the case.

Although I would like nothing more than to see this home sell at full price – I don’t believe it will. At this point – I must disclose that I live in the neighborhood. Other homes have sold here – with the same or more square footage, for less money. This is more likely to sell closer to the county assessed value than list price. Until they bring the list price closer to this number I believe this home will languish on the market. My guess is it will settle at $1,065,000

POTOMAC PREDICTIONS ~ A good year coming!

Thank you to everyone for your e-mails and phone calls. It is nice to know that I was missed during the last quarter of 2010.

I admit that I could have found time to squeeze in few reviews on Potomac properties during the last quarter. Honestly though - I was so busy with clients during the last few months I needed a little down time to recharge.

You will be happy to know that just because I did not report in writing - I still viewed homes in our marketplace daily. I am happy to report that the market hit bottom almost a year ago - and is getting healthier every day.

I can tell you with all candor that homes that are priced correctly are not only selling quickly ~ but often with multiple contracts. This of course, drives prices upward. The market in general was up in the Potomac area. The most recent Case-Schiller report was no surprise to me. Overall the Washington D.C. area was one of the few in the country with price gains for the year. With a low percentage of foreclosures and short sales - Potomac fared even better.

2010 may have seemed like a dire time in the Real Estate industry - but for me - was my best year in a long time. I have all of you to thank for my success - and I hope you will continue to follow my reviews of Potomac Real Estate.

You can expect to see 2 reviews a week from me on average. When I have the time, of course, I will share more. Feel free to e-mail me the addresses of homes you would like to see reviewed and I will be happy to get them published.

The most important think I can ask is for your business and referrals. I can provide a list of clients that would be happy to discuss their experience in finding their dream home in the Potomac market. Are you thinking of buying or selling in this market? Any market? E-mail me today and lets discuss your options!

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.

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.

9420 Winterset Drive - Winterset - $995,000

Listed by L&F

Google Map Here

I have been spending a lot of time in this neighborhood over the last few weeks. The more time I spend here, the more I like it. Great location and great schools make this community and easy sell. With well tended landscapes and larger lots - this community has moved up on my must see list for Potomac buyers.

This home sits on one of the nicest lots I have seen this year. With over a half acre - this lot has lovely trees - but enough sunlight for a fabulous lawn. I was joking with one of my buyers that I would kill for a yard like this one. The home has great curb appeal. A wide driveway provides access to the separate 2 car garage and additional driveway parking for those with larger families.

The entry is covered and opens into a nice foyer that opens into a large living room. The dining room flows through to the back of the home and looks out on the lovely back yard. There is a first floor guest suite tucked away to the left of the foyer with its own full bath. A great location for a room - and out of the way of the family for privacy.

The family room is square with a fireplace on the far wall. Barnwood accents may not be to everyone's taste, but is easily removed. A sun room has been built behind the Family room with access directly. Good size and done in ceramic tile, this room can be used for three seasons or more. Windows keep out the cold and let in the sun heating this area even during the chilly fall. This is a great add on for this home.

The kitchen has been beautifully renovated with stainless and granite. A large breakfast area looks out onto the side yard with plenty of space for all around the table. The laundry area is in a mudroom area adjacent to the breakfast room.

The upstairs has tired green carpet leading up the stairs and halls - but this is easily replaced. The master bedroom is small for Potomac - but has good closet space and a surprise exterior door in the walk-in closet. Open the door and you have your own private sun deck that occupies the roof of the sun room downstairs. The master bath is a blast from the past. Green laquer cabinets match the carpet outside. Mirrors galore and a sunken green soaking tub with brass fixtures. Very early 1980's. This would be on my short list of things to replace if I were the new buyer.

The other 3 bedrooms upstairs are good size and share a updated hall bath. There is good light in all of these rooms - and any kid would be happy to grow up here.

The basement is huge! It is partially finished (and well done) and includes a half bath. Although the finished area is not super large - there is plenty of space for expansion should the new homeowner want to add to the space.

Although I love this house and lot - it is priced a bit too high for the neighborhood. Even with all this home has going for it - it has too much other competition in Potomac to sell for $995K. Look at this one to sell for between $935K and $960K when all is said and done.

9028 Copenhaver Drive - Copenhaver - $1,175,000

Listed by L&F

Google Map Here

Copenhaver is on the Northwest side of Falls Road and is a lovely community of single family homes. Home of Cold Spring Elementary - this is a sought after neighborhood because of its schools and proximity to all that Potomac has to offer.

This is an all brick split that has been completely redone. The landscape is meticulous and every bit of the home has been brought up to date. This is what all homeowners dream of doing when buying a home in an older community but few ever do.

This is the Baltimore model - one of the more popular floor plans in Copenhaver. This home was expanded in the rear to expand the kitchen and add a breakfast room. There is lots of space and the renovation was very well done. The rooms on the main level are all "Supersized" and staged beautifully. There is not much not to like here. The lower level has a family room, laundry area and mud room.

The upstairs has a wide center hallway and a beautiful master suite. Four additional large bedrooms - 2 with their own baths finish off the top floor. Even the most critical home buyer will appreciate the way this home flows.

The back yard is flat and fenced nicely. The grass is green and fenced along the back property line of this large lot. The major downside to this dream home is the high tension wires that cross behind the home. The property backs to the right of way for the electric company. Although there are some large trees screening much of the view- the wires are still visible. This home was originally listed at $1.2mm. It has since been reduced to $1.175mm. This is still too high. Although redone beautifully the high tension wires are a deal breaker. It is hard to justify the premium price with the wires crossing the back horizon. This one is assessed at $904K. It is worth a $100K premium Look for this one selling in the $1mm to $1.05 range when the right buyer comes around.

12825 Huntsman Way - Fox Hills West - $879,000

Listed By Weichert

Google Map Here

While legally this area is called Potomac Commons - most refer to this neighborhood as "Fox Hills West". These homes were built in 1970 for the move up market. They were considered large for the day at just over 3000 square feet on the living levels. The neighborhood and designs have stood the test of time. Fox Hills West is still one of the nicer communities along the Falls Road corridor.

This home has very nice curb appeal. Made of brick and frame with a covered front entry - the lawn and landscape are well cared for. What usually looks this good on the outside - carried through to the inside. I was not disappointed.

The large foyer is impressive with square polished tile. The formal entry is typical with a large living room on the right with a centered fireplace. A large dining room is to the left with plenty of space for a large table. The family room is behind the stairwell along the back of the home. A slider brings you out to a nice deck overlooking a fenced back yard. Although this lot is only 1/4 acre - it seems much larger as it backs to the Watts Branch Park.

The kitchen has been recently updated with granite and white appliances. A breakfast area has room for a real table and real family. A large window allows the light to really brighten this area. A laundry and mud room is adjacent to the kitchen and allows access to the garage. Muddy kids shoes can be changed here to keep the rest of the home tidy.

The upstairs has a large master bedroom with sitting room and recessed lighting. Lots of closet space and an updated master bath complete the room. The other bedrooms are teen size and share a hall bath that has been somewhat updated. Overall - a nice floor plan upstairs.

The basement is HUGE. This space is open and 63 feet long. With a sliding glass walkout to the back - this space has huge potential. If this basement had a full bath it would be close to perfect.

This is a nice home that has been very well maintained. Many of the upgrades have been done - it is ready for someone to bring their ideas and design to make it their own. The location is fabulous as are the schools. The neighborhood has stood the test of time and is still one of the "go to" neighborhoods in Potomac.

This one has a lot of updates and has been kept in very good condition. The $879K price tag may seem rich for the neighborhood - but it is not far off the mark. I see this selling around $845K when this finally gets to settlement.

11813 Winterset Terrace - Winterset - $1,274,900

Listed by Llewellyn

Google Map Here

Winterset is a gem of a neighborhood that runs parallel to Glen Road in Potomac. Built in the early 1980's - these homes have it all. Great location, great schools and great floor plans keep the neighborhood in demand.

This home is tucked off of Winterset Drive on Winterset Terrace. With just over a third of an acre - this home is screened by trees in the front. When you peek in behind the trees the home is pretty - frame built with natural stone highlights and chimney. The yard is well kept and the slate walk leading to the front door gives it good curb appeal.

The foyer is spacious with a living room on the left and a dining room with fireplace on the right. The wide hall adjacent to the stairwell leads back to a large open family room. The room is large with windows all along the back of the house. The light just amplifies the space. The kitchen is large and updated with granite and high end appliances. Especially cute is a corner pantry with a etched glass door.

There is lots of square footage in the kitchen and family room. This space is open and great for entertaining. There are closets galore for storage of coats, pots and pans and Costco groceries. There is a room with washer and dryer that has built in "lockers" for kids to store coats, backpacks and instruments. Anyone with kids will appreciate this lovely touch. The back of the house has a nice tiered stone patio and a grassed area for the kids to play. Although not deep - this space is more than adequate for everyday play and entertaining.

The master suite is also on the first level. Tucked in behind the stairs - the room is large with a wonderful master bath suite. This home is a must see for those that want a downstairs master - a tough find in the Potomac market.

Upstairs there are 4 large bedrooms. One is located above the master bedroom and has it's own bath. This would be perfect for a guest room or nanny. The other 3 bedrooms are large - one can be further enlarged by opening a set of pocket doors. Once again - there is plenty of space in this home. There is a laundry room here (and downstairs) with closets for linens and towels for the baths. The bathrooms have been cleverly updated with bead board and look nice. Although this is a design not everyone will like - it works in this home.

The basement is finished with a billiard room and large area for TV and video. There is a full bath here - and plenty of storage. The space is flexible and it is easy to picture "your" stuff here.

This is a lovely home - and a lovely neighborhood. Originally listed at $1,344,000 - this home has been reduced by $70K to its current price. Although this price may be justified by square footage - the house will find extreme competition in this price point. The home has been enlarged - but it is a bit out of balance. There are lots of other homes in this range in Potomac that have more to offer. This home may find a buyer at this price - but more likely closer to its assessed value when all is said and done.

Where Have I Been? The market is HOT!

The best way to figure out if anyone is reading what you write on-line - is to stop. I have gotten over 20 e-mails asking if the Potomac Secret Agent has taken a sabbatical. I have to apologize to all my patient readers. It is not as if I have stopped seeing and reviewing homes. I have been incredibly busy selling my listings and finding homes for my purchaser clients. THE MARKET IS HOT!

After a very difficult 2009, 2010 started off strong. Between the $8000 tax credit and pent up demand - the market is as strong as I have seen for years. Low inventory, motivated sellers and buyers looking for a bargain have really given a boost to our local market.

With that said - what does it mean to you?

If you have been waiting to sell a home - stop waiting. The market is back. There is little inventory in the Potomac market - and those homes that are priced right are selling quickly. Some of them are recieving multiple contracts and selling at above market price.

For all of you that want to enter the Potomac market - or sell your home here to move up - Don't Wait!Prices are already increasing in our marketplace. I see a 5% to 7% increase in prices in Potomac this year. The only segment of the market still suffering is the $1.3mm and above. Larger down payments and stricter lending guidelines are decimating this segment of the market. The deals to be had in this segment of the market are extraordinary.

So - where do we go from here?

I have sold 5 of my listings and need some inventory to sell. If you have not yet listed your home - call me. You will get my undivided attention to sell your home quickly and at the best price. We can than focus on finding you the home of your dreams in Potomac. Shoot me an e-mail and let me send you a list of my satisfied customers. Better yet - call today and become one of my satisfied customers! psa@MyPotomac.com

7400 Brickyard Road - River Falls - $1,149,990

Listed by L&F

Google Map Here

River Falls has always been one of my favorite communities in Potomac. It has a fantastic cohesiveness - and is a neighborhood where many that grew up here - come back to raise their families. I feel there is no better reason than that to put this community on your must see list.

Brickyard Road connects MacArthur Boulevard and Falls Road. The road defines the eastern border of River Falls, and has a series of traffic circles to keep speeds low. This home is hidden from the street by some large pines - and there was no hint of traffic noise from inside.

This is a formal colonial with a typical center foyer. Living room left and office right - the home is nicely decorated. As you work your way back to the kitchen - you notice BOLD decorating choices. Colors are avant garde and some may say cutting edge. Every good Realtor will tell you - Paint is cheap.

The kitchen is lovely. Taking a page from HGTV - they have opted to leave out upper cabinets in the kitchen area which gives the room a much different feel. There is an enormous center island - granite and base cabinets - that will provide a stage for any home cook. A back wall of windows brings plenty of light into this space.

A door to the deck provides access to an incredible outside space. A large spacious deck leads to a screened in gazebo to allow you to enjoy the cool evenings without the bother of ubiquitous mosquitoes. A fenced yard and garden is a lovely backdrop to the deck and will be a joy for those with a green thumb or pets that need a fenced area.

Although this is a nice home - it is a bit over the top from a decorating standpoint. The kitchen has an interesting plan - but maybe not the most practical. There is not a exhaust to the cook top - the kitchen cabinets are IKEA and the "flow" is cumbersome. Not the best choices in a $1mm+ home. With that said - I see this settling at a discount from list price. The cost to tone this home down and "fix" the kitchen will be calculated into any offer. Look for this to settle at around $1,050,000 when the ink is dry.