Tibron Court - Mass Ave Highlands - $1,649,000

This community is located within walking distance to Potomac Village just off River and Hall Road. The homes are generally in the 1.4 to 2.4 million dollar range, and sell reasonably well because of location, good schools and proximity to the beltway. This home is at the end of a pretty cul-de-sac with nice curb appeal. The homes in this neighborhood were built in the mid 1980's and it seems as though there is always a renovation project underway to bring these homes up to date.

This home show beautifully. The main floor is perfect for entertaining, and the colors and lighting are well done. Someone spent some money on a designer and listened. It looks good. The oak panel office is a beauty. Those that love the arts and crafts look will love the paneling and integrated desk and bookshelves in this large space. Frank Lloyd Wright would give two thumbs up. An outside screen porch and beautiful pool and sports court make the backyard a kids paradise. The basement is finished with a nice bar and corian top. Although it could use an update, it is practical and can wait till the funds are available for a re-do.

The open stairwell is very attractive. Upstairs though is a disappointment. The hallway is dark, and there is a bunch of wasted space at the top of the stairwell. The center hall is long and narrow, dimly lit by wall sconces. All I could think of is SKYLIGHT, SKYLIGHT! A outside light source in this space would make a world of difference in the perception of this property.

I was sad to see that the owners of this property purchased it at the height of the market in 2005 for $1,995,000. They are being realistic at $1,649,000, but the lack of light upstairs is going to turn people off. They stand a shot at getting this sold at $1,595,000. It may take a while though. There are some beautiful homes on the market in this range, and they do not need the fixes that this one does. The location though can't be beat.

Bells Mill Road - Pine Knolls - $1,895,000

This home has been on the market for a few years now. A local builder bought these two lots at the corner of Bells Mill and Falls Road in November of 2003. They started this home well before the real estate market turned and are now stuck with it in a difficult market. The corner lot has not been developed yet, and remains filled with construction debris much to the chagrin of the neighbors.

The house itself is not bad looking. It is not quite finished, but the interior is very well appointed. Very beautiful mouldings, lovely floors and high ceilings are striking upon entry. Although the appointments are "mansion like" the interior square footage, especially on the second floor, is not very expansive. The bedrooms upstairs are decent size, but the attached baths are tiny. For the price, this home does not offer much value. The only saving grace in this home is the Master Bedroom and bath. It is very nicely designed. The bathroom has dual sinks, dual commodes and multiple walk-in closets.

To sell this home, the builder needs to take some time to clean up the adjacent lot. It is a mess, with weeds, construction materials and other debris. Why not spend the time and a few dollars to grade and hydro-seed the lot to make it much more attractive. It will be a much better reflection on the home for sale, and will also provide a much more attractive look for the lot which is also for sale.

The builders should invest in some brass house numbers to install above the front door to identify the home. Do you really think someone will consider paying almost two million dollars for a property that has the house number sloppily painted above the entry? Just a thought....

This home will sit on the market for a long time at this price. It is on a busy road next to an eyesore of a lot. If someone was to make an offer, it will be at a few hundred thousand less then list price. To be honest, even at $300,000 less, the home on Nantucket Terrace, just up the street blows this home out of the water. My instincts tell me I will be seeing this home on the market for some time to come.

SOLD - 8817 Harness Trail - Fox Hills - $775,000

SOLD for $729,000 on 12-23

It is hard to believe this community is 38 years old. The homes are pretty and well maintained. This size home tends to be a move up home for parents with kids that outgrow their first digs. The public schools are fabulous and this community is always on the must see list for these move up buyers.

This home shows well. The sellers put some time and money into this home to get it ready for market. The hardwood floors have been completely redone, and the carpet in the basement is fairly new. The kitchen redo is adequate. I would have been a bit bolder with the color and design, but who am I to judge.

This home has competition at the $775,000 price point. For the money, folks should look at the new listing on Bettstrail Way in Falls Bend. Although a bit further away from the village, this home makes a much better appearance for dollar spent. Be sure to have this one on the list if you are looking in this range.

This home is in a great community and it does show well. $775,000 is a bit high. This will sell at around $735,000, and it may take a little while before the right person comes along to fall in love with it.

SOLD - 1107 Bettstrail Way - Falls Bend - $785,000

Falls Bend is located at Falls Road and I-270 on the Potomac and Rockville border. It is a very nice community built in the early 80's and the community has aged gracefully. The homes for the most part are well kept, and the neighborhood is tightly knit.

This is a pretty split level with nice curb appeal. A 3 level split, it has 4BR and 2.5 baths on the main levels with an additional bedroom and bath in the finished basement. Although the bedrooms are not large, they are adequately sized especially for the kids.

This home has been recently updated in the past few years, and tastefully so. Not overdone, but wisely chosen, the upgrades in the kitchen go a long way to bring this home up to date. Granite, updated appliances and tasteful paint make this room comfortable to spend time in. You can also pop out on the screened deck in the back to lounge mosquito free while enjoying a cocktail.

Is the price right at $785,000? If it is high, it is not by much. When compared to other homes in the area with similar attributes, this one comes out on top. I say this one goes at $770,000.