This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

The real estate market in Reston was strong throughout 2013, with the volume of transactions out pacing last year by almost 10 percent.

Nationwide, property values were up 14 percent. As predicted, last year Reston did not see large across the board price increases this year (our values were up 12 percent last year), but demand was strong and inventory was low which meant that properties were moved quickly with little price negotiation. The average days on market in Reston were just 21 compared to an average of 35 in Fairfax County.

Prices were up in some market segments in Reston, mainly in properties selling at $400,000 and under. Property in the $401,oo0- and-over market segment held steady after the very strong gains make in 2012. The average home price was $456,000, compared to $455,000 in 2012. Low interest rates and improved consumer confidence spurred very strong sales that were inhibited by a lack of inventory.

Many owners who held onto their underwater mortgages are finally right-side-up since the 2007 housing bubble burst. Investors continue to be active in the Reston real estate market, with 16 percent of all transactions closing in cash.

What to expect for 2014? The opening of the Metro will usher in a new day for Reston. I think the property values within that magic mile will see steady price increases as the value of being able to walk from the Metro to one’s front door begins to sink in with the buying public. Groundbreaking in some of the areas slated for Reston’s first redevelopment efforts, Lake Anne for example, should also have a positive impact on home values in those areas as well.

I would expect to see a fairly balanced market — inventory may be somewhat constrained but changes in the lending guidelines will mean that it will be more difficult to qualify for a mortgage, so a buyer with a pre-qualification from a good lender is going to be in demand.

The table below shows the volume of real estate transactions sold over the past 11 years along with the average price and percent of change over that time period. From a seller’s perspective, things are definitely moving in the right direction.

Here’s wishing all of Reston a happy and prosperous New Year!

We can expect inventory to start rising as we come out of the holiday season—and thank goodness because there’s not a lot out there. If you’re looking to buy here are the new listings.

This is a sponsored column from Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

 12104 KINSLEY PL 2BR 3.5 Baths $949,000

11442 TANBARK DR 4BR 2.5 Baths $699,900

11416 LINKS DR 4BR 2.5 Baths $389,900

1717 ASCOT WAY #D 2BR 2 Baths $295,000

12311 TIGERS EYE CT 3BR 1.5 Baths $275,000

1307 GARDEN WALL CT #912 2BR 1 Bath $255,000

11650 STONEVIEW SQ #22C 3BR 2 Baths $209,000

Reston Real Estate would like to thank everyone who liked our facebook page during the month of December. We pledged to donate $1 to Cornerstones (formerly Reston Interfaith) for every new “like” on our page- we will (happily) be writing a check for $275.00.

This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

I don’t know about you, but I usually spend so much energy deciding what to do on New Year’s Eve, that I completely forget about planning about New Year’s Day! This year I thought I’d actually look into what’s going on New Year’s Day in the Reston and DC area. Here are the five activities that made my list. Chances are I’ll just decide to stay inside and drink coffee all day, but it’s nice to have good options.

1. Visit the Smithsonian museums — I have to say it never occurred to me that the museums would be open on New Year’s Day. But they are. Whether you love modern art, airplanes, or dinosaurs, the Smithsonian has something for you. Visit their website to find hours and locations.
2. Explore the National Zoo — Want to spend some time outside in the brisk January air? Visit the National Zoo. It should be quiet on New Year’s Day. And if you feel adventurous, you can wander on into Rock Creek park for an outdoor picnic. The website has more information.
3. Take a hike — I love hiking in the winter. The air is brisk and there are no bugs. If you really want to stay local, simply pick up any of the RA trails and go for an adventure. Or head off to one of the many local parks (click here for a list). I love starting at River Bend park in Great Falls and hiking along the river into Great Falls Park to look at the falls. The dogs like it too.
4. Have brunch with friends — Why should the new year festivities end at midnight? I love getting together with friends on New Year’s Day and talking about our big plans for the coming year. Between Reston Town Center, Lake Anne, and South Lakes Village Center, and there are plenty of wonderful options to choose from in Reston. If I run out of coffee, you’ll likely see me down at Lake Anne.
5. Watch some college bowl games — I’m not a huge football fan, but somehow watching college football on New Year’s Day just feels right. And since I’m not emotionally invested in any of the games, it’s a stress-free activity! There are games all week, but here is the Jan. 1 lineup:

TaxSlayer.com Gator Bowl, EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Fla. – 12 p.m.
Heart of Dallas Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Dallas – 12 p.m.
Capital One Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl, Orlando, Fla.- 1 p.m.
Outback Bowl, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla. – 1 p.m.
Rose Bowl Game Presented by Vizio, Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Calif. – 5 p.m.
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Ariz., – 8:30 p.m.

 However you decide to spend that day, I hope it is a fun and relaxing start to 2014. Happy New Year!

This is a sponsored article from Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

 Looking for a home in Reston? Several new homes hit the market this week:

11442 Tanbark Drive, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, SFH. $699,900

11760 Sunrise Valley Drive #113, 2 BR, 2 BA Condo. $389,233

12001 Talesin Place #35, 2 Br, 2 BA Condo. $365,000

2140 Whisperwood Glen Lane, 3 Br, 2.5 BA TH. $344,000

11800 Sunset Hills Road #701, 1 BR, 1 BA Condo. $299,900

11631 Stoneview Square #2B, 2 BR, 2 BA Condo. $169,900

This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

I live, work, and socialize on Lake Anne, so my idea of an adventure is to head over to Reston Town Center (which is only a mile away, but feels like a different world).

On New Years Eve, Reston Town Center is an idyllic place to be with the twinkling lights and sounds of laughter echoing down the streets. It’s beautiful. As I’m making my own plans for New Year’s Eve, I thought I’d share my idea of the perfect New Years at Reston Town Center:

 1. Strap on your skates — The skating rink at town center will be open until 8:00 p.m. on New Years Eve. Take a few spins before and reconnect with your inner child. Click on the rink’s site for more details. After you’ve fallen a few times, head over to Clyde’s, Paolo’s, or any of the other restaurants nearby to warm up.

2. Treat yourself to an evening of dining and decadence — When you’re done skating (and après skating), relax in your hotel room before heading out for a gourmet dinner and party. Every year the Hyatt Regency offers spectacular New Years Eve specials (4 course dinner at Tavern 64, room, and breakfast @ $299 per couple—what a deal!). For me, getting a hotel room less than a mile from my home is the ultimate indulgence—a mini vacation with no worry of stressful travel. Check out the specials on the Hyatt’s website.

 3. Start the new year right with a 5k run — Okay, so you’ve indulged and had your fun. Now it’s time to start the new year right. Or at least start it with 700 other crazy souls willing to strap on their sneakers and go for a fun around town center. The New Year’s Day 5K presented by Potomac River Running is always a fun event. And if you really don’t want to run, then grab a coffee and come cheer the runners on! Find registration details  on the PR Running site.

Whatever you choose to do, have a wonderful and safe New Year’s Eve in Reston.

Like Us on Facebook!

For every new Like to our Facebook fan page in the month of December we’ll donate $1.00 to Cornerstones, formerly Reston Interfaith. Like us so we can give!

This is a sponsored column from Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

The market is a little “sleepy” right now with just 105 properties on the market. Things will pick back up after the Jan. 1. Reston has seen solid numbers in the last 12 months– that’s the topic of an upcoming post. For right now here are the new listings.

12092 CHANCERY STATION CIR 3BR 4.5 Bath $899,900

2299 HITCHCOCK DR 3 BR 3.5 Bath $614,900

2002 GOLF COURSE DR 3BR 2.5 Bath $459,000

1474 GREENMONT CT 3BR 2.5 Bath $400,000

11522 MAPLE RIDGE RD 3BR 2 Bath $359,000

11298 SILENTWOOD LN 3BR 2.5 Bath $315,000

12001 MARKET ST #T29 1BR 1 Bath $295,000

1400 NORTHGATE SQ #12B 2BR 2 Bath $219,997

For every new Like to our Facebook fan page in the month of December we’ll donate $1 to Cornerstones, formerly Reston Interfaith. Like us so we can give!

This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

Want the ease of condo living, without living in a traditional condominium high rise? Ivy Oak is the place for you.

This condominium community is truly a gem, especially for families with young children (they will love the large playground!). And, Ivy Oak is about a ten minute walk to Reston Town Center, close to both Whole Foods and Harris Teeter, and has easy access to the new Wiehle metro station.

Ivy Oak Cluster was built in 1970-71 and consists of 96 two-story, three- or four-bedroom townhomes.  Each has a nice backyard space, many of which are fenced. The neighborhood also has a large common space with a wonderful playground. Ivy Oak is located off North Shore Drive, close to Temporary Road.

For me, the nice thing about condo living in Reston is that all of the exterior maintenance is covered in your condo fee. That means you won’t have to replace your roof, or any other major exterior repair. Now that is peace of mind for the busy professional or family.

There are no current listings in Ivy Oak Square but this past year 9 properties sold with an average price of $355,700 (maximum $384,900; minimum $323,000) and an average days on market of just 12.

Like Us on Facebook!

For every new Like to our Facebook fan page in the month of December we’ll donate $1 to Cornerstones, formerly Reston Interfaith! Like us so we can give!

This is a sponsored article from Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now

There were eight new properties listed in Reston this week for a total of 111 properties on the market. Inventory continues to shrink as we move into the holiday season — this trend will likely continue into early January, when the listings should start to pick up again. Serious buyers are always looking, so if you’re thinking of listing the low inventory may work to your advantage.

11100 BEAVER TRAIL CT #11100 1BR 1 Bath $215,500

2220 SPRINGWOOD DR #H 2BR 2 Bath $265,000

12000 MARKET ST #282 2BR 2 Bath $449,500

11180 HARBOR CT #11180 2BR 2 Bath $459,000

2416 IVYWOOD RD 5BR 3 Bath $499,000

1335 BUTTERMILK LN 4 BR 3 Bath $550,000

11809 BRIAR MILL LN 4 BR 3.5 Bath $599,000

11776 STRATFORD HOUSE PL #506 2BR 2 Bath $829,000

Reston Real Estate is pleased to announce that for every new “LIKE” on our fan page between now and Dec. 31, we will contribute $1.00 to Cornerstones, formerly Reston Interfaith. Click here to like our fan page.

This is a sponsored column from Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

There were just four new properties listed in Reston this week for a total of 116  on the market. As expected, inventory has dipped as we enter the holiday season.

Buyers are still out there looking so if you’re in the position of needing to get your house on the market don’t despair! Here are a few of the new listings.

1557 TWISTED OAK DR 3 BR 3.5 Bath $426,000

11214 HARBOR CT #11214 2BR 2 Bath $350,000

12197 SANIBEL CT 3BR 1.5 Bath $300,000

2220 SPRINGWOOD DR #H 2BR 2 Bath $265,000

Reston Real Estate is pleased to announce that for every new “LIKE” on our Facebook page between today and Dec. 31, we will contribute $1.00 to Cornerstones, formerly Reston Interfaith.

This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate, Long & Foster Realtors. Please submit follow-up questions in the comments section or via email.

Question: I’m a first time buyer. I’ve been looking (online), at townhouses and condos in the Reston area. It seems like I can buy more if I get a townhouse because there won’t be any condo fees. My father says that the condo fees pays for things that I’ll have to pay for eventually. What do you think?

A: I think your father is a pretty smart guy. Let’s look at the question from a different perspective. For most things that we own there is something called the “cost of ownership” which means simply that it costs money to maintain things. Cars need maintenance, pets need to go to the vet and some clothes can only be dry cleaned.

It is the same with property. It requires maintenance and repair and to maintain its value. Hopefully part of your plan to purchase a property includes understanding what it will cost to keep it in good repair.

When you purchase a condo some parts of the property maintenance are the responsibility of the condominium association. Your condo fees include a contribution to both the day-to-day operations and something called the reserve and replacement fund. The reserve and replacement fund is where the money for things like a new roof, replacement flooring in commonly shared hallways, maintenance of parking lots, garages and all the other things that the condo owners share in common. What that includes will vary from condo to condo, but it typically includes the entire exterior except for windows and doors.

When considering the purchase of a condo it is important to look at the condo’s financials and audit report to confirm that the reserve fund is large enough to cover anticipated repairs; an under funded reserve account is a future special assessment. A special assessment occurs when something breaks and there’s not enough money for the repair—the condo association then has to collect extra money from the members to make the repair.

So, the short answer to your question is that your dad is right. If you buy a townhouse you’ll have to take charge of saving to replace your roof, your water heater, your furnace, etc. In a condo some of that will be saved for you through the payment of your condo fee, but you’ll want to make sure that the condo association is well run and in good financial shape.

Follow this link to a more detailed blog post about understanding condo fees.

This is a sponsored post by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

I love Thanksgiving in Reston. Everyday, I am truly grateful to live in such an amazing  place. In fact, my love of Reston had much to do with my decision to become a real estate agent, and everything to do with my decision to focus only on Reston Real Estate.

Helping people find a dream home in the place I call home really can’t be called work

As I’m getting ready for Thanksgiving this year, I’ve been reflecting on some of the things about Reston I especially love.

1. I love looking out of my office window at Lake Anne and watching the model boat regattas or couples paddling toward the fountain in a paddle boat.

2. I love going to the Farmer’s Market every weekend and buying fresh produce and meats from local farmers.

3. I love walking on the Reston Association paths—whether I have a destination like Reston Town Center in mind, or I’m just wandering.

4. I love running into friends at the grocery store or when I’m out to dinner.

5. I love the civic activism, and how people in Reston care about this place and want it to flourish; even when we’re disagreeing on how that should look.

There is more that I love about Reston, but those five things sum it up for me. Reston is a fabulous place not only to live, but to have a full life. Today, I feel very grateful.

I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with laughter, love, and gratitude.

This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson on Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

There were 19 new properties listed in Reston this week for a total of 135 properties on the market. Inventory tends to shrink as we move into the holiday season but serious buyers are always searching. Here are a few of the new listings.

1210 WOODBROOK CT, RESTON, 3BR 3.5 Bath, $649,900

2600 SOAPSTONE DR,  5BR 2.5 Bath, $629,000

2042 LAKEWINDS DR , 4BR 3.5 Bath, $569,000

12105 PURPLE SAGE CT N, 3BR 1.5 Bath, $319,995

2242 SOUTHGATE SQ, 5BR 4.5 Bath, $395,000

Click here for a list of everything that’s for sale in Reston.

For more real estate information, including mortgage rates, visit Reston Now’s Real Estate Section.

This is a sponsored column by Eve Thompson of Reston Real Estate. She writes twice weekly on Reston Now.

Bentana Woods is one of those Reston neighborhoods that makes you forget you live in a bustling urban area.

Built in 1972 by Bennett of Virginia, this community is located in the Tall Oaks section of Reston — about one mile from the Wiehle Metro Station, a quick walk into Lake Fairfax Park, and short drive to Reston Town Center or Lake Anne Plaza.

The location is fantastic, which makes the fact that these townhouses are charming and well designed even better.

Bentana Woods is actually two separate clusters—Bentana Woods Cluster has 48 homes while Bentana Woods West has 108 homes. More than 50 percent of the neighborhood lands are common areas with open grass, tot lots, and stands of trees—trees that the National Wildlife Federation has certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. The townhomes feature three-to-four bedrooms with about 1,700 square feet of living space.

If you want to be close to the action, but feel like you’re living in a national park, Bentana Woods is the Reston neighborhood for you!