Month: June 2023

5 Tips for Choosing a Home Inspector

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You’ve finally done it! You have a house under contract and you’re doing the paperwork to get your mortgage lined up. When your Realtor calls to ask you who you want to use for your home inspection, you freeze. Your brain has to go back and repeat that part. You get to pick your own home inspector? How do you even go about doing that?
Choosing a home inspector isn’t a difficult process, but as usual, we have tips to help you make it even easier.

Inspectors, Assemble!

When you don’t have an existing relationship with a home inspector, your Realtor will likely present you with a list of pros that they recommend highly. Even though time is of the essence because your inspection period is ticking away, you can quickly assess each recommended inspector to find the one that’s right for your home purchase. After all, not every inspector can be an expert in every type of construction or neighborhood. You need the person who best fits your purchase!

Now, for some helpful tips!

1. Check that all potential inspectors are members of a reputable home inspector association. InterNACHI and ASHI are the two largest. ASHI, for instance has been accrediting home inspectors for more than 40 years and requires that inspectors complete at least 250 inspections before they can call themselves “certified.” It’s a high achievement for a home inspector, and a confidence builder for their clients. You want someone who is willing to do the work and go the extra mile. Your new mortgage isn’t chump change, so it’s important you go in with your eyes open.

2. Ask what inspections they perform. Some home inspectors only do a general home inspection, which can be fine if you’re not afraid of that 15 year old air conditioner condenser. But because home inspectors come from all areas of the construction industry, some have specific expertise that can be helpful in finding problems that you probably didn’t notice when you walked into the house of your dreams.

3. Have they inspected houses like yours? There’s a huge, huge difference between a brand new house and one built in 1904. Not only are construction techniques very different, the sort of strange upgrades that may have been made to the older home would never be seen in a newer house. An inspector that has little to no experience with a house like yours may flag things wrong that are actually very typical for a home of that age. You don’t want to get your inspection back and panic because your inspector held an older house to a newer standard, for example.

4. Do they provide photos within their reports? There’s no standard format for a home inspection report, though there are a limited number of software packages for inspection companies. They have a lot of options, including providing optional photos of trouble spots or other items the inspector may feel needs pointing out. If your potential home inspector doesn’t provide photos, it can be hard for you to monitor potential problems or for future pros to find and fix the issues pointed out. Photos are absolutely a must-have.

5. How soon can they come out? It might seem like a silly question, but you’re very likely working with a limited window of time to ask for repairs. That means the sooner your new home inspector can get out, the better. It takes several hours to complete a home inspection, as well as time to compile the report and deliver it to your agent. You also never know when you’re going to need an additional specialty inspection of systems like your HVAC, roof, foundation and so forth. If you’re down to your final cut and one can come out tomorrow and the rest can’t until next week, it’s not a hard call.

Tip Number 6: Ask Your Real Estate Agent…

While you’re checking out potential home inspectors, don’t forget to seek your Realtor’s recommendations.

Also Read: “What to Expect from Your Home Inspection”.

The Verse Condos in McLean, VA

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The Verse Condos: A Fusion of Luxury and Sophistication

Welcome to The Verse Condos, an architectural masterpiece meticulously crafted by the renowned architectural firm Shalom Baranes Associates. Soaring 25 stories high and housing 140 residences, The Verse offers an exclusive collection of elegant and sophisticated condominiums and luxurious amenities with breathtaking panoramic views of the Northern Virginia skyline.

Setting itself apart from neighboring buildings, The Verse embellishes the city skyline with its distinctive design, featuring projecting terraces and expansive windows that flood the interiors with abundant natural light.

 

The Main Lobby: An Oasis of Comfort and Timeless Elegance

The Verse Condos McLean VA Main Lobby
The Verse Condos Main Lobby

But the allure of The Verse condos extends beyond its captivating exterior. The lobby of The Verse is a perfect blend of drama and welcoming charm leaving a lasting impression from the moment you arrive and setting the stage for a remarkable journey within. Step into an oasis of comfort and elegance and immerse yourself in the inviting atmosphere created by the rich wood and stone finishes, evoking a sense of warmth and tranquility. Take a seat on the plush seating, surrounded by inspiring artwork that sparks the imagination. The flowing curtains add a touch of grace, enhancing the overall ambiance.

 

Verse Condos Interiors: Modern Luxury and Timeless Beauty

The Verse Condos in Tysons VA Living Rooms
The Verse Condos Living Room Design

At The Verse, it’s the meticulous attention to detail that sets it apart. Step into the extraordinary condo interiors crafted by internationally acclaimed interior design firm Cecconi Simone. The Verse condos embody a perfect blend of modernity and warmth, showcasing refined classic elements with timeless finishes. From the custom detailing to the concealed lighting, every inch of Verse’s condos exudes beauty and sophistication. Welcome to a place where hosting guests and finding comfort in your own home becomes an art form.

 

Kitchens at The Verse

The Verse Condos in McLean Virginia kitchen design
The Verse Condos Kitchen

Indulge your passion for cooking and entertaining in the meticulously designed kitchens at The Verse. Each kitchen is a testament to fine craftsmanship, featuring integrated Italian cabinetry that cleverly conceals the refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. The composite stone countertops, adorned with full-height backsplashes, exude elegance, while chef-caliber appliances elevate your culinary experience to new heights.

 

Indulge in Serenity: Bathrooms at The Verse

The Verse Condos in Mclean VA bathroom designs
The Verse Condos Bathroom

Step into a sanctuary of tranquility, where every aspect of your bath experience has been meticulously considered. Immerse yourself in a world of impeccable detailing, where porcelain Calacatta marbleized flooring and tile surroundings create a luxurious ambiance. Admire the custom Italian vanity and storage towers, thoughtfully designed with built-in linen cabinets, providing both elegance and practicality. Prepare to be pampered and rejuvenated in the comfort of your own home.

 

Exquisite Amenities

Designed to cater to the most discerning tastes, The Verse features a range of luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center, Grand Entertainment Lounge and an expansive Skypark with an outdoor kitchen, bar, gas grills, outdoor dining areas, fire pits and TV screens.

 

The Verse Condos Amenities Grand entertainment Lounge
The Verse Condos Grand Entertainment Lounge

For the social butterflies, The Verse offers spacious Entertainment Lounge where you can meet and connect with fellow residents, host special events, or simply unwind with a book in a cozy reading corner. This space features flexible partitioning for private events, an open kitchen with high-end appliances, and 14-foot glass-top island, fireplaces, billiards and flat-screen TVs.

 

The Verse Condos Amenities Skypark
The Verse Condos Skypark

Enjoy the outdoors in the beautiful Skypark with panoramic views of the surrounding areas. The Skypark makes the most of the outdoors and offers serene green spaces, and seating areas, covered kitchen with a bar and gas grills, outdoor living and dining areas and fire pits with chairs for relaxing and stargazing. It’s the perfect spot to relax, meditate, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

 

 

The Verse Condos McLean VA Fitness Center Gym
The Verse Condos Fitness Studio

Step into our state-of-the-art Fitness Center, equipped with the latest exercise equipment for cardio workouts, weightlifting equipment and well as a yoga studio with TV for programmed workouts.

 

 

The Verse Condos Tysons Virginia Pool
The Verse Condos Pool

Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling rooftop pool, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Lounge on the comfortable poolside furniture, bask in the sun, and let the worries of the day melt away.

 

Discover the Epicenter of Urban Living at The Verse

The Boro Center McLean VA and Tysons VA
The Boro Center

Located in the heart of Tysons at The Boro Center, The Verse is surrounded by the best of Northern Virginia’s shopping, dining, and entertainment, putting you at the center of it all.

Explore the pedestrian-friendly streets, immerse yourself in the charm of community parks, and enjoy the convenience of everyday amenities at your doorstep. With a bustling array of vibrant shopping and dining options, The Boro creates the perfect backdrop for discerning residents seeking an unparalleled urban lifestyle.

The Boro is conveniently located just a short distance from the Silver Line Metro stations, providing easy access to Washington, D.C., Dulles International Airport, Tyson’s Corner Center and the surrounding areas. With its mix of amenities, upscale living options, and convenient location, the Boro at Tysons is a highly desirable destination for both residents and visitors alike.

 

The Verse Condos Info:
• Condo Fees are determined by the size of the condo units and start from around $500 per month to $1,600 per month
• Condo Fee Includes: amenities; common areas; elevators; trash removal; parking; amenities, 27/7 concierge service.
• Additional Fees: capital contribution fee; move-in & move out fees.
• Size: 25 floors with 140 condo units
• If you are purchasing the Verse Condo with an intent to rent, please contact condo association first. The Verse Condo building has restrictions on the number of units that can be rented at the same time in order to maintain a balance between owner-occupied units and rental units within the community.

 

The Verse Condos Video Tour:

 

The Verse Condos For Sale:


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How to Find The Best Home Builders in Vienna, VA & Around Northern Virginia

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Unveiling Northern Virginia Construction Boom

Today, numerous older homes across several Northern Virginia Communities including: Vienna, McLean, Falls Church and Great Falls are giving way to modern new construction homes. These towns boast a charming small-town atmosphere while offering a plethora of urban conveniences. Known for their family-friendly neighborhoods, great schools, proximity to excellent job opportunities, and easy access to public transportation, it’s no surprise that these suburbs within the Washington DC Metropolitan area have emerged as highly sought-after places to call home.

Construction of new homes in these towns is on the move: with over 150 new construction homes currently for sale in a price range of just over $1 million all the way to $50 million and with recorded sales of nearly 100 homes in the last two months.

 

Searching for the Right Builder

If you decided to purchase a new home, doing a research on local home builders has to be your number one priority.

Regardless of whether you are a buyer who is in the market for a new spec or a custom home, don’t skip on doing a research on home builders. Finding the right home builders is even more important for custom-built and build-on-own-lot homes; it’s essential part of the process to interview several home builders before making a commitment to a contract.

What do you need to know about the home builders and how can you go about gathering the information?

Please don’t dismiss the role of the real estate agent during this process. An agent has “inside scoop” and knows home builders’ reputation and quality of work. And if you are looking for a specific location, your agent will help you to identify right lot and land in a perfect location.

 

Assessing the Builder’s Reputation: A Crucial Step

Understanding a home builder’s reputation is akin to peering into a crystal ball foreseeing the quality of your future home. The key lies in thorough investigations and conversations. Begin by soliciting a list of references directly from the builder. Engaging in candid discussions with the past clients offers invaluable insights into the builder’s performance and customer satisfaction.

For a more nuanced understanding, seek out homeowners whose properties underwent Builder’s Warranty related repairs or touch-ups. Delve into their experiences with the builder during these instances. How did the builder respond to home owner’s concerns? Did the builder honor the warranty with promptness and professionalism? These personal accounts often reveal the true colors of a builder’s commitment to their clients.

But wait, there’s more to uncover about the builder’s reputation:

  • Relationship with Subcontractors and Suppliers: Request a comprehensive list of subcontractors and take the initiative to contact them. Inquire about their experiences working with the builder. Did the builder maintain respectful and professional relationships? Importantly, did they ensure timely payments to these essential contributors? A builder’s treatment of subcontractors often mirrors their overall professionalism.
  • Consumer Complaints and Licensing: A visit to the Better Business Bureau can unveil a wealth of information. Check for any filed complaints against the builder by consumers. This offers a gauge of any red flags or recurring issues. Equally significant is verifying the currency of the builder’s license. A current license assures compliance with industry standards and regulations.

 

Assessing Builder’s Professionalism

Delving into a home builder’s professionalism is like deciphering the blueprint of their dedication and expertise. To uncover this facet, begin by inquiring about the builder’s affiliations with professional organizations. National and local groups like NHAB (National Home Builders Association) and NVBIA (Northern Virginia Building Industry Association) are indicative of a builder’s commitment to industry standards and ongoing education. Confirming their membership status within these esteemed organizations provides a glimpse into their dedication to professionalism and staying abreast of best practices.

Online Insight: Tapping into Consumer Feedback

The digital realm holds a trove of insights. Harness the power of online consumer resources like Angie’s List, Yelp, or Google Reviews. These platforms serve as sounding boards for homeowner experiences. Dive into the comments and ratings left by previous clients. Pay attention to recurring themes or exceptional praise to gauge the builder’s performance and customer satisfaction.

The Labor Force: A Key Component

But wait, let’s shine a spotlight on the labor force! Does the builder employ licensed subcontractors or opt for a ready, but possibly less skilled, labor force? Licensed subcontractors often signify a commitment to quality and adherence to industry standards. Equally crucial is evaluating the competence of the workers. Are they skilled professionals proficient in their craft? The caliber of the workforce significantly influences the quality and finesse of the final product—the home.

 

Unveiling Business Practices: The Builder’s Operational Expertise

Peering into a home builder’s business practices is akin to scrutinizing the engine that drives their operations. Let’s explore the critical checkpoints:

  • How long has the home builder been in business?
  • Does the builder have a permanent place of business?
  • Does the builder own and develop the land or buy building lots from a developer?
  • Does the builder have a reputation for adhering to budgets and schedules?
  • What are the builder’s marketing and selling strategies?
  • How long has the home builder done business in the local area?
  • Is the builder knowledgeable about local conditions, tastes, building codes and permit process?
  • Here today, gone tomorrow?

 

Liability

  • Ask home builder about insurance coverage relating to their business?
  • Are there any pending legal actions against the builder?
  • Will the builder indemnify the home buyer against subcontractor’s claims?
  • Ask if and what type of Builder’s Warranty will be provided?

 

Quality of Work

  • Does the builder have a quality control program?
  • Are details finished in a timely manner?

 

Home Builder’s Experience

  • Ask how long the builder has been in business.
  • How many and what type of homes has the builder constructed in the community?
  • Does the builder have the competence to construct the buyer-client’s desired home?

 

Commitment

  • Does it seem like the builder has a long-term commitment to the profession and the community?
  • A builder who has a long-term commitment to the industry and the local community will not tarnish a good reputation by carelessness or mistreatment of client, supplier, or subcontractor.

 

Specialization

  • Does the builder specialize in constructing a particular architectural style, concept, price range, or size of home?
  • Does the builder work in a particular subdivision or anywhere?
  • Does the builder target a particular market?