Rachel Valentino - Atlantic Coast Connection in DC,VA,& MD

Arlington, VA is home to some of the hottest and most sought after "urban villages" in the entire DC metro area. Young professionals are crazy about the area as it continues to attract more and more young people seeking a hip living area. This urban county covers 26 square miles, directly across the Potomac River from Washington, DC.

This is a Smart Growth area teaming public transportation systems with planned economic development, which has led to booming business districts and quaint residential neighborhoods, each with a small-town feel. There is a strip of 5 major neighborhoods, each with a distinct personality. Two of the most desired of the "urban villages" in this exiting area are Ballston and Clarendon.

Some of the drawing points for the area include:

• In 2002, the area won a national award for Smart Growth Achievement

• In 2005, the area was ranked #1 among "walkable cities in the US" by the American Podiatric Medical Association and currently scores 95% on Walk Score (2009).

• In 2006, CNN Money ranked the areas as the most educated with 37.7% of the residents holding graduated degrees

• In 2008, BusinessWeek ranked it as the safest community to weather a recession.

• Home to Wilson Boulevard-Clarendon Boulevard corridor. In 2008, this street was named one of 10 "Great Streets" in the U.S. by the American Planning Association.

Because of the commitment to transit-oriented development, residents can enjoy the convenient shops, services and transit options. Residents continue to support and participate in both political and economic development of the area. In turn because of the strong commercial tax base, the area residents here pay relatively low taxes.

Ballston, VA

Downtown Ballston is centered around Ballston-MU Metrorail station which is a major transportation hub, connecting Metrobus and ART buses with Metrorail's Orange Line. Here you can't help but feel the "bit-city downtown" atmosphere. Here you'll find taller buildings than the rest of the Arlington area. Among the busy office buildings there are numerous designer coffee shops and delicatessens that cater to the 9-5 crowds.

Just a few blocks away the busy atmosphere tapers off into residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and single family homes. You'll also find real estate offerings including numerous apartment and condominiums that complement the skyline and offer simple studios to elegant penthouse suites with panoramic views.

Clarendon, VA

Clarendon is located between the Rosslyn area and the Ballston area. The two main road are Wilson Boulevard (one-way westbound) and Clarendon Boulevard (one-way eastbound). This neighborhood offers mid-sized office buildings near the Clarendon Metro station and safe, stable neighborhoods full of single-family homes and tree-lined streets, offering great opportunities to live, work, and play.

Clarendon is known more as the young, vibrant, and eccentric of the Arlington area urban villages. This neighborhood considered is the heart of Arlington's nightlife and dining scene.

It is often cited as an example for smart growth and transit-oriented development , the model for the term "urban village". In addition to the national chain shopping and retail scene, Clarendon is well known for its local businesses which are varied and unique.

With the laid back, safe, walkable living area so close to the Metrorail and the big city amenities, you can see why this area is so desirable. Among the real estate offerings in Clarendon and Ballston, you can find numerous townhouses, luxury apartments, and condominiums in addition to single-family homes from which to chose. Rachel Valentino is a top specialist in the Arlington, VA area. Contact her today or check out her Atlantic Coast Connection website to look for your dream home.

One of America's greatest monuments ,"The Congress House." sits proudly on the crest of the hill overlooking the city of Washington, DC. Nestled in next to the US Capitol grounds, you'll find the charming 19^th century neighborhood of Capitol Hill. It is a district where you'll find diverse residents and an architectural style captivating and enchanting.

One of the oldest historical neighborhoods in the entire DC area, Capital Hill is - remarkably - also one of the most densely populated areas. Roughly 35,000 people live in Capital Hill which spans just short of two miles. Those who live in here are often touted as the true "movers and shakers" of America.

Capitol Hill, of course, is home to some of the nations most famous landmarks: the United States Capitol and the Senate and House office buildings. It's also home to the Supreme Court building, the Library of Congress, the Marine Barracks, the Washington Navy Yard, and Congressional Cemetery.

But, for the most part, it's largely a residential neighborhood composed predominantly of late 19th century press brick rowhouses. Existing side by side and steeped full of history, you'll find 19th century manor houses, Federal townhouses, small frame dwellings, and ornate Italianate bracketed houses.

Today, East Capitol Street runs through the center of this most sought after part of the neighborhood. It's an easy way to spend an afternoon strolling down the brick sidewalks soaking in the diverse architectural style. Each year the Capitol Hill Restoration Society holds a popular house and garden tour. Residents and visitors alike enjoy taking part in this yearly event. Another exciting tidbit of news is that an Art on Call program is underway in this neighborhood. Stay tuned for upcoming details on this creative endeavor.

Pennsylvania Avenue, which runs in another direction, creates the eclectic commercial sector of the neighborhood. It's here you'll find the lively shops, restaurants, and bars. Recently renovated, Eastern Market is an 1873 public market on 7th Street SE, where vendors sell fresh meat and produce in indoor stalls and at outdoor farmers' stands. It is also the site of an outdoor flea market every weekend where locals love to convene. Music, another popular venue can be found on H Street NE where nearby condos are beginning to fill up.

In addition to the diverse areas within Capital Hill, there are many top restaurants found in the nation's capitol located right in the heart of Capitol Hill. This is where on any day you may rub elbows with a Senator or Member of Congress at any one of them. One of the most frequently suggested for spotting politicians is Bistro Bis. It is a cozy contemporary French bistro that is also a favorite of the locals. Another local favorite is the popular The Dubliner Restaurant & Pub. Here you'll find a great selection of beers and authentic fare such as "Irish Beef Stew," shepherds pie, fish and chips, and a variety of daily specials. Live music is offered nightly and attracts a lively crowd.

For those a little more laid back, Capital Hill also provides plenty of green space (National Mall, Capitol Hill Parks, etc.) Although Capital Hill's parks are not considered big, they do provide peaceful green space amidst the urban environment giving residents and visitors a nice place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Folger Park is one of the largest parks in the area. While here, you can take in the city's rich architectural history. Come and enjoy the 1,000 ornamental trees planted in the 1800's and enjoy lunch on one of the unique "fountain benches" fashioned after the 1935 "Drinking Fountain and Bench" plan. Read more about the other 58 parks in Capitol Hill area.

This area is also known for its schools. One of the most sought after schools is what is known as the Capital Hill Cluster. Recently many of the older less advantaged schools were recipients of new libraries thanks to neighborly efforts.

With such diversity, history and beauty, you can see why Capitol Hill real estate is becoming an ever more popular choice for those looking to buy in the Washington, DC area. You can find historical homes as well as newly build condos. Can you imagine living where every day is just a walk to the White House? Then you'll definitely want a real estate pro on your side.

In the complex market of Washington, D.C., you want a REALTOR^® who you can trust, one who knows the area and has a proven track record. Rachel Valentino is a top specialist in the D.C. area no matter what your needs are. Contact her today or check out her Atlantic Coast Connection website to look for your dream home. Put her expertise to work for you.

P.S. - It's not too late to use the $8,000 First Time Homebuyers Tax Credit, but time is running out!

Eight years have passed since the tragic day of Sept 11, 2001. Those living in the DC area along with Americans across the country honored the victims and heroes of the 9/11 tragedy by serving their neighbors and communities as part of September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Even though eight years have passed and September 11^th has passed, for those living and working in the Washington DC area - it's never an unfitting time to reflect and remember that day and toll it has taken on our country and our fellow Americans across our nation

But for those in the Capital Hill area, a morning of remembrance was briefly halted this year by a nearby Coast Guard exercise that was mistaken as an attack. This exposed the raw emotion and scars still held by those who lived through this day when the media misreported actual gunfire. But it also exposed another aspect of those living in DC - bravery and courage, showing the true American heart found here.

Back on that day in 2001, if you were living in D.C., you probably were also a TV news junkie like the rest of America; if you lived or worked in Capital Hill, you didn't need the media telling you something big and terrible was going on. After the plane hit the Pentagon. you were in the center of the war on terrorism.

Rachel Valentino was in college in FL at the time, not in DC. Like many others she spent the day watching events unfold in the student center. Still, the day is unforgettable to her. Since living in DC, she has been even more aware of the importance of the day.

In remembrance, it is also not only important but also very fitting to look at the overall effects on our county. There really is no better way to see the future than through the eyes of children. Each year the Elks sponsor an essay/scholarship contest across America to support Americanism. What follows are actual random exerts taken from winning essays from their yearly contests. These exerts are from actual children aged 5^th/6^th grade who submitted entries.

"Let the children speak and the wise men listen"

2006 Theme How I feel when I look up at the American flag....

"...it is a symbol of pride in our country and the will to fight for our nation."

"...I feel the stars are special in their own way like the stars in the sky and I see that we are part of something bigger"

"I see all the people who died just to give us our freedoms. And I see the troops who are risking their lives in Iraq. I think of all the things that I'm able to do."

"If the American flag wasn't waving today, we might be in a refugee camp, we might be slaves, or we might even be dead."

"I ask myself, how did Betsy Ross pull it all off?...She was so creative to be able to make something so beautiful to represent our country."

2008: Theme - What is an American?

"Americans can be all different colors and races as long as they share a common goal-to recognize our freedom and to do what's best for our Country."

"Americans are role models to other countries because they show that people are born with natural rights and that no one has the right to take that away from you."

"An American is a person who has freedom. An American is a person who has opportunities, works hard and is brave."

Isn't this amazing? Our children have faith and see a bright future for America. If the future leaders of our country show and understand the feelings and compassion of these students, American's flag will proudly fly for many years into the future.

After reading these exerts and looking at our country from their point of view, you can't help but think that indeed, God has blessed America and the future of the DC area is as sound as can be. The DC of the future under the leadership of our children, is one to look forward to, a better more expansive and compassionate place.

If you'd like to be a part of the heart of America and are interested in living within the metro area, then Rachel Valentino is the expert for you. She not only lives in the area, she is an active member in the community who cares about the future. Active in all avenues of the market, Rachel hooks up clients with the perfect property - whether it is a condo, co-op, single family residence, existing home, or new construction.

Stretching one and a quarter miles along the Potomac River in Price George's County Maryland, you will find majestic National Harbor. This newly developed community brings together work, living and entertainment on a grand scale never seen before. It's hard to believe this 300-acre waterfront destination is only 15 minutes outside downtown Washington, D.C.

If you arrive by water, you'll be greeted by an astonishing sculpture The Awakening which sets the tone of the entire place. Originally located in Potomac Park across the Potomac River & north a few miles, this statue was dismantled then moved to it's new home. It now resides on the sandy beachfront at the National Harbor resort near the stage and plaza creating a spectacular view from the Potomac River. Adding to the urban elegance found throughout National Harbor you'll find four beautiful fountains including two pond fountains. You'll also find an abundance of green space sprinkled throughout the community further enhancing the restored natural habitats.

The theme throughout National Harbor is American Spirit and while here, you will feel the spirit of life here, it is exciting, vibrant and so alive. In fact, once you visit National Harbor, it's hard not to imagine living here. Walking along the waterfront it's hard not to be swept away with the notion you could be here every day, living and being part of this vibrant waterfront community. Before you know it, you're picturing yourself waking up to the view of the historical Potomac River and taking daily strolls, jogging or skating down the waterfront path. You may even envision working right here within National Harbor so you can already ‘be home' when you get out of work.

And then there is the excitement of the best shopping and dining imaginable just outside your door. One of the most exciting new additions to the area that you'll want to visit is the celebrity-infused Ketchup restaurant. And while you're there you may want to try one of their signature menu items like Maryland Crab Cakes or the Philly Sandwich. Residents, trendsetters and VIPs alike are sure to visit this modern American restaurant whose owners include celebrities Ashton Kutcher, Wilmer Valderrama and Tara Reid.

If you were to imagine the best place to live, work and play, then visit National Harbor, you'd see for yourself why living there couldn't get any better. If you are looking into buying a condo anywhere in the DC area, you owe it to yourself to check out the National Harbor area.

Here are 5 more reasons to fall in love with National Harbor:

1. 1 Million square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space

• Awesome dining, hot, hip and trendy stores, Live Jazz on the riverfront, American Market, Movies on the Potomac and more

2. 2,500 residential units - Talk to Local Real Estate Expert Rachel Valentino

• 4 newly developed condominiums: Featuring 1st class amenities such as rooftop swimming pool, underground parking and concierge services; One National Harbor. Fleet Street condominiums, Waterfront Street condominiums and St George condominiums

• The sale prices on these condominiums are being compared to that of new buildings in downtown Washington DC. One could expect to find a one bedroom starting in the low $300s and 2-bedrooms in the low $500s.

• In top of the line luxury, there were a select number of larger penthouse style and 2-level homes that were also included in One National Harbor's design. For these lavish and rich homes, one can expect prices up to and over $1 million.

3. 3 piers, including a marina

• Water Taxi service to and from National Harbor to Old Town Alexandria ($14/RT)

• Seasonal Water Shuttle Service to and from National Harbor to Mt. Vernon, and National Harbor to and from Georgetown

• Future routes will include Reagan National Airport and The Washington National's Baseball Stadium

• Lunch and Dinner cruises through Odyssey and the Spirit of Washington and Seadog, a high speed fun cruise on the Potomac

4. Easy access to DC and other surrounding metro areas

• Direct access to National Harbor via I-95/495 Exit 2A makes it the only private community with direct access to the Capital Beltway

• Direct access from I-295 Exit 1A, Route 210 and Oxon Hill Road

• Easy access to Reagan National, Dulles Intl. and Baltimore Washington Intl. airports

• Public bus transportation provided by The Maryland Department of Public Works and Transportation (MDOT) and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)

• The $3 Billion new Woodrow Wilson Bridge is now complete offering an additional 12 lanes to accommodate traffic

5. On-site security and emergency services 24/7

So if you're looking to find something new, something different, the ultimate urban experience in the DC area - this is it! Local real estate expert Rachel Valentino was recently introduced to this new hip community and was completely ‘blown away'. She loves the new area and would love to share her enthusiasm by helping you find the perfect condo or residential home here.

Do you really want to make owning a home in National Harbor a reality? Then call Rachel Valentino today to discuss current residential options. She's number one in the entire DC area because she listens to her clients, hears what they are looking for and then goes out of her way to deliver. So if you're interested in learning more about the area or any of the condo options here at National Harbor or anywhere in the DC area, just contact her, she's always available to help.

Don't Miss Out! The Window of Opportunity is Closing!! The Time to Buy is Now!!!

With the media pounding us with headlines that scream "real estate meltdown" and "credit crisis", many Americans are left thinking there is no way in today's economy to buy a new home. But actually, nothing could be further from the truth. As in any crisis situation, bad news for some can lead to good news for others. And there is good news, especially for first time homebuyers who are now in an unprecedented position to leap into homeownership.

There really hasn't been a time in US history where there were so many incentives to buy a first home. Homes have never been more affordable than they are today. Consider these pieces of good news if you are considering purchasing a new home in DC or the surrounding area:

1. There is still time to take advantage of the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit which if you qualify can put up to $8,000 in your pocket! This is free money from the government just for buying your new home before the deadline, helping stimulate the US economy.

But the time to get going is now. By acting now you still have the time to contact an expert Realtor® and start looking for your new home because you must close before Dec.1, 2009 to take advantage of this outstanding offer. So, you should plan on finding your new home and signing a contract no later than Oct. 15, 2009 to allow enough time for processing in order to close on your new home before the Dec. 1, 2009 deadline.

Lenders are expected to be swamped as the deadline nears. So don't run the risk of losing your tax credit because you waited too long. Because time is running short, you will want to get going, so contact DC area expert Rachel Valentino today!

2. Government Incentives at an All Time High Leading to Lower Cash Requirements to Close. Up until now, one of the biggest things holding up first time home buyers is that they still need to come up with the down payment, closing and other related costs. In today's economy, for the average couple or individual, saving up the down payment alone can be a discouraging task.

But now for the first time, the first time home buyer tax credit can be used for a down payment for qualified individuals. Link to Official HUD Press Release.

Shaun Donovan, secretary of HUD (Dept. of Housing & Urban Development), has said that the FHA (Federal Housing Association) will now permit it's lenders to allow homeowners to use the $8,000 tax credit as a down payment.

According to Donovan, the FHA's approved lenders will be permitted to monetize the tax credit through short-term loans. These second loans are available for little or no interest and may be repaid with the homebuyer tax credit.

This allows borrowers using FHA-approved lenders to apply the tax credit to their down payment in excess of 3.% of appraised value or their closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. There are also ways obtain the money from a state housing authority or qualified non-profit that might help you buy the home with even less down or maybe even with no down payment. To read the FHA's new mortgagee letter, visit HUD's website. You can also contact DC's real estate expert Rachel Valentino to explain and help you fully understand the guidelines and restrictions outlined by the HUD program to see if this may be beneficial to you and your situation.

Besides the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit, homebuyers may also be able to take advantage of other special programs through the FHA.

Even with recent changes, a FHA-backed loan still offers a very low down payment that is a great incentive for many new homebuyers. For those who qualify, a 3.5% percent down payment is substantially lower than the 10-20% you'd have to raise for a conventional loan.

In addition to lower down payments, FHA-backed loans tend to have less stringent credit requirements. Look to Rachel Valentino who is experienced in the current government incentives and programs. She will work with you to explore your options finding one that will fit you and your needs.

In addition to the big reasons outlined above, add historically low interest rates on conventional loans and today being the largest ‘Buyers Market' seen in years, you can see why buying a new home this year really is within your reach. People in DC and the surrounding area are achieving home ownership and you can be one of them.

Whether you are looking for a two-story condo in Washington DC or a spacious home in the suburbs, every first time buyer who works with Rachel Valentino of The Atlantic Coast Connection can find something that appeals to their personality and wallet.