Realty Digest

Realty Digest
A Quirky Collection of News and Information
From The Service You Can Trust Team

**** August 12, 2006 ****

See you in September! Although Realty Digest is on holiday until after Labor Day, the Service You Can Trust team remains hard at work to help folks with buying or selling real estate in D.C., Maryland, Virginia and New York City.

Items of Interest
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LITTLE CHANGE FORESEEN FOR HOUSING MARKET: It is, in the opinion of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in a process of stabilizing, with little change in overall sales volume expected over the balance of the year. Comments David Lereah, NAR's chief economist: "We've seen a minor easing in closed transactions of existing-home sales and a slight increase in the leading indicator of pending sales based on contracts. New-home sales and housing starts have been fluctuating, so the overall market is stabilizing." Noting the rise in mortgage interest rates has slowed sales in many higher-cost markets, he added that 3.8 million new jobs have been created over the last two years. "This means many potential home buyers could enter the market in the foreseeable future, especially in moderately priced areas where affordability conditions remain favorable. In fact, this is already occurring," Lereah said. Although sales will be fairly steady over the balance of the year, declines since last fall mean annual totals will be lower. Existing-home sales are forecast to fall 6.5 percent to 6.61 million this year, the third highest on record after 2005 and 2004. New-home sales are projected to drop 12.8 percent in 2006 to 1.12 million, also the third best on record. Housing starts should be down 9.1 percent to 1.88 million this year, according to the NAR.

MORTGAGE RATES ARE ON A BENEFICIAL SLOPE: The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.55 percent for the week, down from last week's 6.63 percent and up from 5.89 last year at this time, according to Freddie Mac. The 15-year FRM this week was 6.20 percent, down from 6.27 percent. A year ago, it averaged 5.47 percent. Five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) were 6.21 percent this week in comparison from 6.27 percent last week and 5.40 percent last year. One-year Treasury-indexed ARMs were unchanged at 5.69 percent. At this time last year, the one-year ARM averaged 4.57 percent. "The weaker than expected jobs report combined with the Fed's decision to pass on raising rates at its last meeting led directly to lower rates this week," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist. "Interest rates for fixed-rate mortgages have dropped to levels last seen in the spring of this year." He added that lower rates "may bring about a rise in refinancing activity as homeowners with ARMs getting ready to reset decide to take advantage by locking into a fixed-rate mortgage now rather than waiting until the adjustment date when rates may be higher."

PAINT THE TOWN EXPENSIVE: In the past couple of years, the price of paint across the board, from the least costly to top-of-the-line brands, has been climbing, observes the Washington Post. The chief culprit is petroleum, its byproducts and other raw and manufactured materials critical to the paint industry. The increase covers "transportation costs, natural gas at the refineries that make the pigments, and steel that is used for containers," says Casey McCormick, president of Maryland-based McCormick Paints. "We use a lot of plastics for containers, which have also skyrocketed. And the resins that go into paint manufacturing have, over the last 18 months, gone up quite a few times." Since 2004, his company has raised prices "a couple of bucks a gallon" on a wide range of products. A gallon of the least expensive flat latex wall paint now retails for $21.60, while the priciest "scrubbable" finish costs $35.05. "For the last two years, we have had rising prices of 5-10 percent a year," adds Bill Thornton, owner of Alexandria Paint Co. and Arlington Paint and Decorating Center. Contractor-grade Benjamin Moore paint that sold for about $17 a gallon in 2004 is now up to $19 a gallon, while Fine Paints of Europe, a brand imported from the Netherlands, has climbed from about $85 a gallon to $95, he says. Some solace: Even with the increases, says Thornton, "paint is still the least expensive way to transform a room."

THOUGH RISING, PENDING HOME SALES FALL BEHIND LAST YEAR'S: The leading indicator for the housing sector has risen for the two months in a row, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Based on contracts signed in June, the Pending Home Sales Index increased 0.4 percent from May to June, but it was 9.6 percent below June 2005. The index is based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed and the transaction has not closed, but the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing. Commented David Lereah, NAR's chief economist: "Once again, we have various housing indicators moving in different directions, which itself is an indicator of a market in transition. The housing market is striving for balance - a process that will take several months. A quieting in the movement of indicators should restore confidence to home buyers who've been on the sidelines, waiting for the right time to get into the market, and now is the best time we've seen since the 1990s in terms of housing choices and flexible terms."

THEY COULD CLOSE PERHAPS ON VALENTINE'S DAY: The Brooklyn, N.Y., boyhood home of r Al Capone is under contract for about $1 million, reports the New York Times in Realtor magazine. The house at 21 Garfield Place in Park Slope is the stuff of legend among old-timers in the neighborhood. Laurence Bergreen, author of the 1994 biography ''Capone: The Man and the Era," says Al Capone of Garfield Place was no angel. Shocking! He was often truant from Public School 133 on Butler Street, and he was finally kicked out of school for hitting a teacher. (As the story goes, she hit him first. And who could blame her? Peggy Aguayo of Aguayo & Huebener, who listed the property, says she doubts that the building's infamous former resident affected its value for the buyers, who plan to maintain it in its current state as a three-family house.

WHAT NEXT WITH RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE: The biggest housing boom in recent U.S. history is coming to an end, according to the Wall Street Journal, which asks: How bad will the aftermath be? At this point, most economists expect a "soft landing," a gradual decline that won't derail the nation's economic expansion, now in its fifth year. But there is a good chance they are being too optimistic, the writer contends, adding that the boom has depended heavily on the upbeat psychology of consumers, builders and lenders. As moods swing, the landing could be very hard indeed, the Journal opines. "We could be underestimating the dark side," says Mark Zandi, chief U.S. economist at Moody's Economy.com and among the first to seek to quantify the housing boom's broader effects. "Euphoria could turn into abject pessimism very quickly." Still, the fallout from a slowing housing market doesn't look all that unpleasant. Economists have few clues on which to base their predictions. Today's housing boom differs radically from its predecessors. For one, it has been bigger and longer-lived. Because the market has risen so far, economists worry it has the potential to fall much harder than their main forecasts would suggest. As Janet Yellen, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco put it in a speech last week: "We can't ignore the risks of more unpleasant scenarios developing." Economists can't quantify some risks, including the biggest: the chance that a sharp drop in house prices - what economists call a "disorderly downturn" - would leave many homeowners owing more on their mortgages than their homes are worth. If that led to a wave of foreclosures and losses on riskier mortgage-backed securities, banks and investors could get spooked and cut back on all kinds of lending - a move that could snuff out economic growth.

AUGUST IS THE CRUELIST MONTH: So it is with mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus. If they bug you too much, driving you inside, the New York Times recommends the Mosquito Magnet, made by American Biophysics and available at home improvement and garden shops. Resembling an outboard motor, the device uses a propane tank to dispense carbon dioxide mixed with an attractant that seduces mosquitoes and other flying creatures into a vacuum nozzle. They are sucked into the machine and their eventual demise.

CENTEX PLAYS HARDBALL WITH WARRENTON: Centex is withdrawing its offer to give the Virginia town an unprecedented amount of money in exchange for approval to build a subdivision, citing the cooling housing market for the change of heart, according to the Washington Post. Centex, one of the nation's largest developers, said it can no longer afford to offer Warrenton $22 million to approve 300 luxury homes for seniors. "It was possible to consider such [an offer] as remotely feasible only in a rising market, where Centex could hope to make a reasonable return on its very substantial investment," wrote Robert K. Davis, the company's division president. "[We] would not have made that agreement had it been possible to predict the timing of the current residential downturn." Warrenton officials said they were stunned by the letter. The tone, they said, was confrontational compared with the "good faith" discussions that had occurred for more than a year. In the letter, Davis gave an ultimatum: Approve a higher-density project, which would be more profitable for the company, or give up the $22 million. Town officials say Centex has other options, such as renegotiating the cost of the land.

LADY MACBETH HAD A POINT: Get it? Anyway, the New York Times says the best way to get out a spot of red wine is with a spray remover that can obliterate organic stains such as wine, berries and even, ugh, blood. Simple Solution runs $5.38 for 16 ounces at amazon.com and $7.99 at petfooddirect.com. The manufacturer says it is safe to use around children and animals.

FORECLOSURE NEWS IS MIXED: The number of new residential foreclosures hit its highest level of the year in July, while the active foreclosure inventory for the month actually dropped 3.1 percent from the June level, according to Foreclosure.com, a company that tracks foreclosure information, says Inman News. "The decline in active foreclosures can be attributed to many of these properties being purchased," the company announced. There were 28,130 new residential foreclosures in July - a 4.95 percent increase over June and a 10 percent increase from July 2005. Michigan, Colorado and Ohio were among the states hardest hit by new foreclosures, the company reported. "New residential foreclosures across the nation are up this year, driven in large part by increases in adjustable-rate mortgages," said Brad Geisen, Foreclosure.com president and CEO, in a statement. Meantime, Realtytrac.com said 570,000 houses were in some stage of foreclosure a week ago, making it a buyer's market in many areas such as Michigan, Georgia and Texas, where homes in foreclosure are going for 70 percent of their current market value and sometimes less. Added James J. Saccacio, CEO of RealtyTrac: "The majority of metros we track, along with the nation as a whole, reported fewer foreclosures compared to the previous quarter." Of the cities with the 10 highest foreclosure rates, Houston, Austin and Stockton were the only ones to report increasing foreclosure activity in the second quarter. Houston led the way with 11,659 properties entering some stage of foreclosure, a 40 percent increase from the previous quarter. Austin reported a 7 percent increase, and Stockton reported a 2 percent increase. Washington-Baltimore reported a 6 percent increase in foreclosure activity, though foreclosure rates in both cities ranked among the bottom 50.

LET'S MAKE A DEAL: A real estate "dealer" is someone who is in the business of buying and selling real estate for short-term profits, notes Realty Times. A real estate dealer is known by other names: wholesaler, flipper, or rehab'er. Although the person gets the label of "real estate dealer," it's a decision that's made based on each property. It's possible to be a dealer on one property, but not on another. The key question is whether the property was purchased to sell or purchased to hold. If you "flip" the property for a short term property, it's just the same as if you flip a burger - you have a business. That means as a real estate dealer your income is subject to self-employment taxes and is taxed at the ordinary income tax rate. There's one more additional wrinkle, as well. Normally when you sell a property "over time" you can take what's called the "installment method" for calculating tax due. You pay tax only as you collect payments. A real estate dealer can not take the installment method. That means if you're considered a real estate dealer for a property that you sell and carry back paper on, you'll pay tax on the whole profit now - whether you've collected any money or not.

UNPLEASANT ALLEGATION ON THE GERIATRIC FRONT: The Justice Department has sued a northwest Missouri landlord, alleging he sexually harassed female tenants and threatened them with eviction if they refused his advances, according to the Washington Post. The lawsuit alleges that 85-year-old Harold Calvert, manager of 16 rental properties in Richmond, Mo., made unwanted verbal and physical sexual advances to women who lived in his units. "Housing is a fundamental need and no woman should be victimized while trying to obtain shelter for herself and her family," said Wan J. Kim, assistant attorney general for the Justice Department's civil rights division. Filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, the lawsuit alleges that Calvert violated the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits sexual discrimination in housing. Some of Calvert's tenants receive Section 8 federal rental assistance from the Richmond Housing Authority. A person who answered the phone at Calvert's residence said he was not available for comment. In June, Calvert and his company faced similar charges from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD officials said their investigation showed at least seven female tenants were subjected to "offensive sexual behavior." The administrative action alleged that Calvert offered to pay tenants for sex, requested sex in exchange for rent or other favors, made unwanted attempts to kiss and grope and had repeated sexual intercourse with at least one female tenant. The HUD action is pending before an administrative law judge.

MORE VIEWS ON THE FUTURE OF THE HOUSING MARKET: Now, as job growth and the economy slow under the twin burdens of higher borrowing costs and rising energy prices, the housing industry faces a precarious future, says the New York Times. Will it fall steeply and suddenly, as Wall Street did after the technology bubble burst? Or is housing, as many in the industry like to point out, different enough - with its patient sellers and real assets on the ground - to resist powerful downward drafts? "It won't sound like a stock market crash, because houses don't work like that," said Jan Hatzius, chief economist at Goldman Sachs. On one hand, he said, housing is unlike the financial markets because most homeowners hold on to their properties in bear markets. Except for those with powerful reasons to sell, like moving for a new job or going through a divorce, many owners are prepared to wait for the market to improve. On the other, Hatzius expects the correction to be painful anyway, especially along the coasts and in the Southwest, where home prices rose the fastest and the use of exotic mortgages that let people borrow more against their homes was the greatest. As a result, the return of housing prices to more realistic levels "is going to take a long time," predicted Hatzius, who described himself as being on the "more alarmist end of the spectrum." Indeed, while housing officials frequently point out that home prices have never fallen nationally, economists are quick to note that, adjusted for inflation, prices have fallen nationally and in major regional markets, sometimes for years at a time. In Southern California, for example, real home prices fell significantly in the early 1970's, after the Vietnam War boom ended, and the early 1990's, after the cold war ended and military spending was scaled back. The declines lasted for years.

THE VOLUME OF LOANS FOR PURCHASE PICKS UP AGAIN: For the week ended Aug. 4, mortgage loan application volume increased by 4.9 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis from one week earlier, reports the Mortgage Bankers Association. On an unadjusted basis, the change was up 4.3 percent compared with the previous week but down 24.9 percent compared with the same week one year earlier. Seasonally-adjusted, purchase applications rose by 3.4 percent from the previous week, and refinancings grew by 7.1 percent. The refinance share of mortgage activity increased to 38.0 percent of total applications from 37.0 percent, and the adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) share dipped to 27.6 percent from 27.8 percent. The ARM is at its lowest since March 2004.

THE NEW YORK CITY MARKET HANGS TOUGH: Median sales prices for Manhattan apartments remained steady in the second quarter of 2006, with some areas seeing moderate increases, although not as robust as in previous quarters, the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) reports. The median sales price for Manhattan condos in the second quarter was virtually unchanged at $835,000, according to REBNY, while the cooperative median price inched up 1 percent from a year ago, to $685,000. The most sizable gains for the quarter were for East Side apartments, which climbed 5 percent to $870,000, led by in particular by East Side cooperatives, which had median sales prices jump 15 percent to $875,000. West Side condominiums also showed strength, with median prices climbing 9 percent to $850,000. Median sales prices per square foot for Manhattan condominium units increased 5 percent to $1,012, with East Side condominiums reporting the highest price per square foot - $1,050 - up 6 percent from second-quarter 2005. Downtown condominium units registered a 6 percent increase in median sales price per square foot to $998. Manhattan cooperative units had median prices per room increase 3 percent to $198,000, with the East Side registering the highest price and percentage increase of the five major market areas at $217,000, up 12 percent from second-quarter 2005.

A DROP IN THE BUCKET IT IS NOT: Americans apparently can't stay away from buying personal water wonderlands, according to statistics compiled by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, reports the Wall Street Journal. In 2005, 176,500 in-ground pools were sold and installed, bringing the total number of those pools in the country up to 4.7 million, according to the association's statistics. About 4.3 million pools were sparkling throughout the country in 2002. In-ground pools do tend to add value to a home - about 7.7 percent, according to National Association of Realtors statistics. But because they're permanent, buyers who aren't interested in the upkeep or the energy costs of in-ground pools may turn away from a home with one. Heated pools especially can run up a power bill. Your own enjoyment, therefore, should be the primary reason for installing a pool, and for more than five years. Although there are still companies advertising in-ground pools around $16,000, the average price is more like $30,000 to $35,000, which would get its owner a water feature and possibly a spa. Then there's the maintenance once it's installed. Running the filter - assuming you have an efficient pump - will cost an average of $20 a month if it's run all day every day. Chemicals could cost $5-20 a month in the winter and anywhere from $20 to $100 a month during the summer. Pay someone to take care of the pool instead and the going rate is around $65 a month. Still want one? Ask yourself these questions: What do you want to use the pool for? Is it for exercise or to splash around in? Look around online for styles and prices. The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals' consumer site, poolpeopleusa.com, is a place to start. Who is going to use the pool? Adults? Children? The association also maintains a site for kids, splashzoneusa.com, that emphasizes pool safety. Do you want the design of the pool to mesh with the rest of the yard? Landscaping can be as simple as a small deck and as elaborate as an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and pizza ovens. What kind of pool do you want? In-ground? Above-ground? (Just say no!) A swim spa? Consider what kinds of pools are in your neighborhood or talk with a local real estate professional if you have any concerns about what installing a pool will do to your resale value.

MURDER MOST WELCOME: If you pull a garment or other textile out of storage and it has a musty odor, simple sunshine works wonders, the Washington Post counsels. Sunshine is the enemy not only of vampires but of mold and mildew. Place the item outside for a few hours on a bright sunny day. If your article is old and fragile, Newbold Richardson, a conservator from Alexandria, recommends putting it inside the dryer on air-fluff with a dryer sheet for 20 minutes. Doing so often is enough to solve the problem.

SALES OF VACATION HOMES ARE LANGUID: The once-bustling deal making in a wide variety of popular locations for second homes - areas like Florida, the Jersey Shore and Lake Tahoe, as well as the high-price playground on the East End of Long Island - has slowed markedly in recent months, reports the New York Times. As the overall housing market weakens, the interest in buying vacation homes, from the most modest condominiums on up, appears to be falling faster. Unlike most metropolitan areas - where underlying demand and the normal turnover in primary homes as a result of job moves, new households and family changes provide a more solid floor under prices - the second-home market relies on a different set of motivations that tends to exaggerate booms and busts. "Second-home buying is very discretionary," said Edward Leamer, an economist at the University of California, Los Angeles. "There is no force of demographics that is pushing people into buying homes as there is in primary home markets." In second-home markets around the country, the number of sales is shrinking even as the properties on the market increase. Prices at all levels are softening, and in a few places recently have begun dropping. In 2004, the latest year for which data is available, Ocean City, N.J., at 73 percent, headed the list of metropolitan areas with high shares of second homes. From 2002 to 2005, home prices in the area, which includes Cape May, rose at an average annual rate of 17 percent, compared with 10 percent for the nation as a whole and 14 percent for New Jersey. "These have been the most juiced-up markets," said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Economy.com. But this spring and summer, median home prices in the Ocean City area have fallen by 10 to 15 percent from a year earlier. Sales have slowed and more houses are sitting on the market, according to Nicholas J. Marotta, president of the Ocean City Board of Realtors. He blames speculators for rapidly inflating and then depressing the market by trading in condominiums and oceanfront homes that they bought with low-interest loans requiring only small down payments. A survey of consumer finances conducted every three years by the Federal Reserve found that the overall interest in second homes tends to closely follow the ups and downs of the economic cycle. In 1989, some 13.4 percent of those responding said they owned a second home, but that figure fell during the recession in the early 1990s and reached a low point of 11.9 percent in 1995. Such ownership rose to 13 percent in 1998 but fell back to 11.4 percent in 2001 before rising again to 12.6 percent in 2004. Anecdotal evidence suggests that vacation homes might have reached a new high-water mark in 2005.

IF YOU WANT TO RENT, IT'S NOT GOING TO BE EASY: Apartment markets continue their upward trajectory, according to the National Multi Housing Council's (NMHC) July 2006 Quarterly Survey of Apartment Market Conditions. Fully 75 percent of the respondents reported tighter market conditions over the prior three months, measured by lower vacancy rates, higher rents or both. As a result, the survey's Market Tightness Index increased slightly from May to July, to 85, now the second highest index number on record. (An index reading above 50 indicates that, on balance, conditions are improving for landlords; a reading below 50 indicates that conditions are worsening; and a reading of 50 indicates that conditions are unchanged.) The Market Tightness Index has been 80 or above for five consecutive quarters, and above 50 for 12 consecutive quarters, signaling a significant improvement in demand for rental housing. In contrast, the index was 45 in July 2003 and 39 in July 2002, during the peak of the recession. "Improving rental demand in the face of rising interest rates and declining sales volume attests to the strong outlook for the apartment sector," noted Doug Bibby, NMHC's President. "According to Harvard University's 2006 State of the Nation's Housing report, the number of renter households rose in 2005 for the first time in years. The report goes on to say that as echo boomers, same-age immigrants and second-generation Americans move into adulthood, demographic forces will favor rental housing over for-sale housing."

JUST HOW BIG IS IT: To estimate the size of your home, multiply the length and width of the exterior, according to the Washington Post. Then deduct the measurement (length times width) of any space in the house that is unfinished or unconditioned, meaning not heated or cooled. Always take measurements from the exterior of the house. Spaces that should be deducted include a utility room or a crawl space, garage, decks, balconies and porches (front and screened). Also not included in determining a home's square footage: any area that is less than five feet tall, chimneys that extend outside the exterior wall and bay window bump-outs. The official National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) method of calculating square footage is available online ($26.50 for a hard copy; $10 for a download). The process is tedious. But if it's done correctly, it will provide a measurement accurate to the nearest square foot, according to an NAHB researcher, who said a homeowner with some technical background should be able to follow this method with ease. Call 800-638-8556 or visit nahbrc.org for more information.

NEW YORK IS TOPS IN CLOSING COSTS: New York's high title and settlement costs lifted the state well above No. 2 Texas, according to a survey by Bankrate.com. The Lone Star State was followed in the top five by Hawaii, Ohio and Florida. Home buyers in Missouri pay the lowest closing costs, according to this year's study. The Show Me State was followed by Michigan, New Hampshire and Montana. Wyoming, which was last year's lowest-cost state, was fifth-lowest this year. Way down the list were D.C., Maryland and Virginia, averaging around $2,900. The difference between New York and Missouri was $1,174 in this year's survey. Lender, title and settlement fees totaled an average of $3,024 nationally, and the median cost was $2,978. The figures don't include county recording fees or recurring costs such as homeowners insurance, property taxes, homeowner association dues or prorated mortgage payments. Caveat: For this year's annual closing costs survey, Bankrate.com obtained eight to 10 good faith estimates in each state from the Web sites of online lenders only. Researchers requested information on the closing costs for a $200,000 loan there. They requested fees on a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage for a borrower with a 20-percent down payment and good credit to buy a single-family house.

PRINCE GEORGE'S EASES DEVELOPMENT RESTRICTIONS: Residential development, which has been slowed in Prince George's County by growth restrictions, could quickly resume in the wake of a County Council vote to suspend a requirement that the county hire more police officers and firefighters before approving building projects, reports the Washington Post. In 2004, the council adopted an "adequate public safety facilities test" for development in response to residents' fears that new subdivisions were overwhelming police and fire departments as county crime was surging. All development had to meet standards for emergency response times, and the police and fire departments had to increase staffing before new homes would be approved. This year, the test required that the county employ at least 1,349 police officers and 692 firefighters. During the first part of the year, both departments came close but did not meet the standards, and 11 project plans were rejected. Council members voted 6 to 3 to suspend the staffing requirements but keep the emergency response rules in place.

In Realty Times, Broderick Perkins notes that mold can be found where it is least expected. His article follows.

Considered hot, arid states, Texas, Arizona, Nevada and South Dakota may be moldier than you think. On the other hand, considered more humid, the states of Massachusetts and Alabama are located along the coast, where mold may be less common.

Apparently climatic and geographic location isn't necessarily indicators of where you'll find fungus among us.

That's according to a mold hazard ranking model developed by Middleton, Wisc.-based wholesale insurance brokerage American Risk Management Resources (ARMR), an insurance brokerage and consulting firm specializing in environmental insurance, including mold coverage for commercial property. The company compared mold losses on insurance claims with premiums paid on property and liability coverage in each of the 50 states.

The hazard ranking model does not reflect claims associated with 2005 hurricanes or the fact that mold coverage is more expensive in some locations. More expensive coverage could make policy holders more reluctant to file claims if they believe rates will rise or their home will be stigmatized...

According to ARMR, Wisconsin had the lowest relative mold loss rate, followed by West Virginia, Alabama, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Maryland, Illinois, Colorado, Iowa and Indiana. The highest rates were found in Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Nevada, Arizona, California, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Kansas.

The list, at both ends, shows areas where more mold might be expected mixed with states where mold might least be expected.

Building quality could explain the difference.

"Mention mold right now, and the Gulf Coast comes to mind first, but the contamination on real estate hit by hurricanes was flood related as opposed to mold growth caused by inferior building materials or poor construction," said Carl Smith, CEO/Executive Director of Greenguard Environmental Institute, an Atlanta, GA-based non-profit organization working with lenders and developers on mold risk mitigation techniques.

"It's counter intuitive to think of shopping centers in Phoenix or casinos in Las Vegas as being at risk for mold, but it makes sense when you examine the causes of mold and problems often caused by modern building practices and materials," Smith said.

Smith said today's buildings, built tight to meet energy efficiency requirements, can create a "greenhouse effect" with moisture nurtured by walls and windows tightly sealed off from consistently hot weather outside. If the ventilation system's design and deployment is inadequate, buildings can become an appetizing buffet for mold, experts say.

"Think of a glass of ice water sitting on your porch in 95-degree heat," said Smith. "Condensation quickly forms on the outside of the glass, but unlike your drink, condensation in a home or business has nowhere to run off so it builds up in the cavities of the structure, creating an ideal climate for mold contamination," Smith said.

The message?

Just because it feels high and dry outside, doesn't mean it isn't a fungal mess behind the walls.

When San Diego, CA-based Quality Built examined hands-on, independent inspections of some 32,000 homes subject to once-overs by inspectors trained to identify high-risk construction defects in 2005, the most common type of construction defect discovered in 41 percent of single-family homes and 23 percent multifamily properties were problems in the building envelope.

"In the age of universal mold exclusions on insurance policies, every one involved in real estate needs to diligently manage the mold risk," said David J. Dybdahl, head of ARMR.

San Juan Capistrano, CA-based mold mitigation company American Mold Guard was founded after CEO Tom Blakeley fought a mold infestation in his own home.
"I was ready to sell my house, but couldn't because mold was growing behind the walls. I realized then that if I had taken precautions and followed a simple checklist when I purchased the newly built home, I would not have lost the sale. To make matters worse, my homeowners insurance did not cover the clean-up -- a typical scenario for many homeowners today," Blakeley said.

Here's what Blakeley offers to help you make sure your new - or old - home is mold resistant - wherever it may be. The advice also speaks to the growing need for new home buyers to have their new home inspected.

Other properties listed by other agents and previewed recently:

The number of new listings – 620 of them - in July was 20.4 percent higher than one year earlier, and there were 213.2 percent more still seeking buyers at the end of the month. The total still active was 1,594 in comparison with 509 in 2005, but inventory dipped, slightly, from June for the first month-to-month decline since November.

Sales activity was 4.4 percent lower during the month than in June 2005, slipping from 362 to 346. The number of contracts ratified was just a smidge lower than in the preceding three months and above last summer. Still, the market absorbed a paltry 18 percent of the available apartments. Year-to-date volume fell 14.1 percent behind last year.

Not surprisingly, prices have declined from an average of $426,576 last year to $408,551 so far in 2006. The median has gone from $375,000 to $359,900.

Sellers put 11.6 percent more properties on the market than in the same month last year, reaching 519 versus 465. Although the supply of listings still active at the end of July was 108.7 percent greater than in 2005, the trend line has been essentially flat for three consecutive months.

The volume of sales was down 19 percent in July – from 405 to 328 - and 18.4 percent – from 3,132 to 2,557 - for the year to date. The proportion of available homes with ratified contracts (the absorption rate) was 19 percent. Yet prices continue to rise somewhat, from $628,179 in 2005 to $663,254 on average this year, while the median has inched up from $489,000 to an even $500,000; half the homes sold for more than half a million dollars and half sold for less.

There was a 4.2 percent decline in the number of apartments put on the market during July, dropping from 480 to 460. Meantime, the supply of those still active at the end of the month is about the same as it was in June after rising steeply between December and March and then more moderately afterward. In contrast to the 347 that lingered on the market in July of 2005, 1,029 were in that status this year, a rise of 196.5 percent.
A 24.6 percent decrease in July sales, from 353 to 266, obviously contributed to inventory growth. The month's activity was lower than it was been in any month since January. Year-to-date volume went down 16.3 percent, from 2,351 to 1,968 apartments that found buyers, and the absorption rate was 21 percent. The average and median prices have pretty much stabilized, creeping up from $306,544 last year to $311,943 on average and a median of $275,000 to $285,000.

With 1,721 new listings, the total of homes added to the market in July was just 0.6 percent more than at the same time last year. But the inventory of listings still active continues to rise, though moderately, to at least a 12-month peak. The 3,988 homes awaiting buyers was 145.9 percent higher than the 1,622 one year earlier.

Sales activity plunged 26.9 percent below July of last year; there were 909 contracts ratified during the month as opposed to 1,244 in 2005. July's sum was close to June's but significantly below every other month since February. Year-to-date volume totaled 6,558 in 2006 and 8,463 in 2005, and the market absorbed merely 19 percent of the homes for sale. But prices are holding firm. They have gone from $563,491 on average in 2005 to $600,110 this year; the median has moved from $465,000 to $490,000.

Inventory is definitely leveling off after more than a year of steady climbing. Since April's more than 12-month summit, the supply of listings still active at the end of the month has moved perceptibly down, though not in the least dramatically. The number of new listings fell 5.7 percent below July of 2005, from 211 to 199. Active listings mushroomed 214.9 percent higher than at the same time last year, increasing from 201 to 633.

With 106 ratified contracts, sales volume plummeted 26.9 percent, from 145 the previous July. Although volume has been growing marginally for three months, it was smaller than in March and April. Year-to-date sales activity decreased even more – by 30.7 percent, from 1,096 to 760. As for the absorption rate, it was an inconceivably low 14 percent. Prices are showing surprising resilience: The average this year is $358,772 in comparison with $343,872 last year, and the median is $325,000 versus $311,000.

The number of new listings during July dropped 12.1 percent below the preceding July, with properties still on the market by the end of the month posting negligible growth above May and June. There was a 121.7 percent increase in active listings, rising from 236 in 2005 to 501.

Sales activity sank 28.3 percent, to 86 homes under contract; it was 120 in July 2005. The volume was lower than it has been since February. With regard to sales for the year to date, a decrease from 933 in 2005 to 737 amounted to a 21 percent change. Only 15 percent of available properties found buyers during the month, and price appreciation has all but stopped. The average of $669,740 this year compares with $666,068, and the median of $600,000, with $599,999.

Below is a fraction of the newest listings by agents in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. They include, condominiums, cooperatives and other homes in the Multiple Listing Service since Realty Digest's last issue.

WASHINGTON
414 SEWARD SQ SE #105
$315000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Don't miss this charming 1 bedroom condo located within a few blocks to the US Capitol and step to the restaurants and shops of Pennsylvania Ave.This unit has a great layout and is in the rear of the building offering quiet views of the court yard from two exposures.The wood floors are warm and inviting and the kitchen has plenty of usable space."
MLS#: DC6149895

WASHINGTON
308 13TH ST SE #3
$319000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "**Beautiful 2 year old, renovated condo in the heart of Capitol Hill featuring: kitchen w/ ss appliances, granite countertops, ceramic tile kit/baths, crown molding, cath. ceilings, HW floors, Berber carpeting, central air/heat, W/D in unit. Steps to Metro, Eastern Market and Lincoln Park."
MLS#: DC6145499

WASHINGTON
1441 EUCLID ST NW #101
$319500
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Huge bedroom. 3 closets, open kitch w/granite, SS, gas stove, track lights. Huge Living/Dining area, lots of light. NEW hardwd flrs, Berber carpet in BR. Crown molding, NEW bathrm. NOT on street level! Pet friendly bldg. Short walk to Metro, NEW Harris Teeter, Tivoli, New Target, Best Buy, BedBathAndBeyond,WashingtonSportsClub, Adams Morgan, Park easy on street!"
MLS#: DC6144080

WASHINGTON
2410 20TH ST NW #7
$327500
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "This is a Swell Condo at a Great Price! Rarely available unit with private entrance off manicured courtyard. Just updated (2005) with Remodeled Kitchen & Bath and Red Oak Floors. Jacuzzi Tub, Built in Bookshelves, 2 bedroom closets, 2 yr old Pella Windows, bike storage."
MLS#: DC6140546

BETHESDA
10690 WEYMOUTH ST #201
$329900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "GREAT, TOP FLOOR CONDO WITH BALCONY..THE BEST BY FAR! LOTS OF SUNLIGHT AND LOTS OF CLOSET SPACE! SHOWS WELL! QUIET SETTING. MOVE RIGHT IN. GREAT COMMUNITY..GREAT LOCATION! AT METRO, PARK, ART & MUSIC CENTERS, MARC TRAIN,...EASY BELTWAY ACCESS. LOW FEE INCLUDES UTILITIES."
MLS#: MC6143930

WASHINGTON
417 LONGFELLOW ST NW
$339900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Fabulous home in sought after Petworth community. This home offers new modern amenities,lovely front & backyard,charming front porch, 2 Lrg BR's, hardwood flrs, beautiful kitchen w/granite counters,S/S appliances, New washer/dryer, Newly restored bathroom w/marble tile shower & floors, crown moulding, 1yr.home warranty, close to metro, downtown shopping, Univ. MD."
MLS#: DC6145286

ROCKVILLE
10001 VANDERBILT CIR #8-2
$340000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "LUXURY END UNIT, 2ND LEVEL 3 BR/ 2 BA CONDO THAT SHOWS JUST LIKE NEW!!NOTE THE 3.5% COOP COMMISSION. NEW UPHRADED NEUTRAL CARPETING,OAK HW FOYER, FRESHLY PAINTED, NEW LIGHT FIXTURES, NEW BLINDS, NEW WASHER/ DRYER. WALK-IN CLOSET IN MASTER. GREAT VEIWS FROM THE BALCONY. ACROSS FOR THE SWIM POOL. BETTER THAN NEW!! MINUTES TO 1370, 1270, & CLOSE TO THE METRO."
MLS#: MC6147998

WASHINGTON
29 14TH ST NE #29
$347900
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "This condo has beautiful upgrades such as: hardwood floors throughout, corian countertops, new dishwasher, custom maple cabinets, recessed lighting, custom closets, new bathroom tile, sink, toilet, cabinets and new light fixtures throughout! This condo is truly unique because of the tasteful selections that the owner made. A garage parking spot that conveys with this place makes this a bargain"
MLS#: DC6146413

WASHINGTON
1524 INDEPENDENCE AVE SE #301
$359550
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Hip Urban Elegance - Fab bats w/sep stone shower and large stone toped vanity. solid maple flooring, custom slab panel kitchen cabs, granite counters, high end s/s appliances, upscale pendant lighting, walk-in closets & washer & dryer. Wired for media package - includes integrated ipod docking station."
MLS#: DC6138718

WASHINGTON
2633 ADAMS MILL RD NW #404
$369900
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Amazing one bedroom/one bath condo in heart of Adams Morgan,steps from Woodley Park Metro,shops,restaurants & more. New hardwood floors,windows,immaculate kitchen w/ new custom cabinets, appliances & granite counters. Secure building w/central AC & heat,plenty of street parking; park & zoo across street. Built-in hall bookcases, bathroom has new fixtures & tiling. Walk-in closet in master bedrm"
MLS#: DC6147722

ARLINGTON
3342 S. WAKEFIELD ST #A
$370000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "**Priced to sell in sought-after Fairlington Commons**~2 lvl home w/ several recent updates incl. washer, dryer, refrig, kit. tile & backsplash, bedrm blinds and ceramic tile in bath~Hardwood floors on main lvl & guest bedrm and newer carpet/fresh paint on stairs & upper lvl~Addl attic storage & washer/dryer area on lower lvl~H2O & prkg incl in fee~Minutes to DC, shopping & major roads"
MLS#: AR6139037

ALEXANDRIA
3206 GUNSTON RD #716
$374900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Just renovated w/ the perfect blend of modern sophistication & historic charm creating upscale living at its best. Fabulous kitchen w/ granite, maple cabinets & stainless appliances. A sparkling bath w/ new tile & oil-bronzed fixtures. Latest in laundry technology washes & dries in 1 cycle. Recessed lights, restored hardwoods, new windows, etc. "
MLS#: AX6149333

BETHESDA
4242 EAST WEST HIGHWAY #307
$379900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "TERRIFIC LOCATION! Convenient, rarely available 2BR condo w/balcony overlooking Captiol Crescent Trail. Newer flooring in kitchen and bathroom. Move-in condition. Building offers 24-hour desk, rooftop pool, exercise facility, 2 indoor parking spaces. Walk to downtown Bethesda, Metro,restaurants, cinema, theater! All utilties included in condo fee."
MLS#: MC6146100

ALEXANDRIA
3222 WELLINGTON RD #103
$379900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Spectacular Lincoln model w/so many Bells & Whistles. Gardener's delite w/dream landcaping & charming brick patio.Refinished wood floors, remodeled open kitchen,w/ DW and WD in custom closet. Replaced Ac's & heaters.Shows like a model. Great location, minutes to I395 & Shirlington amenities. Open House Sunday August 13, 1-4pm"
MLS#: AX6148519

SILVER SPRING
11700 JUDSON RD
$385000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Spiffed up Wheaton Hills rambler next to Ride-On bus stop! Enjoy large 1st floor family rm add'n (possible 3rd 1st floor bedroom)! New beige carpet + 6 brand new appliances: GE gas stove, microwave hood, refrig, dishwasher, and washer/dryer! Roof-'02, furnace/CAC-'05! Full unfin. bsmt w/ 2 large rooms + 5 new double-pane windows! Fenced corner lot with driveway."
MLS#: MC6152670

WASHINGTON
1325 18TH ST NW #707
$389000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Stylish and convenient city living! This bright, almost 800 sf, 1BR/1BA in the heart of Dupont is in immaculate condition with many updates. An entertainer's dream - open, updated kit w/ granite dining bar, ceramic tile fls, new wood cabs. New HW fls, huge BR w. loads of closets. Private balcony, Rooftop patio w/ pool, rental prkg, steps from metro & dining! OPEN SUN 8/13 1-4."
MLS#: DC6145830

SILVER SPRING
3343 BEAVERWOOD LN
$390000
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "ALL BRICK TOWNHOUSE , 3 FINISHED LEVELS WITH FOUR BEDRS & 3 1/2 BATHS,ENJOY 1,928 SQF OF LIVING AREA,EAT IN KITCHEN,FULLY FINISHED BASEMENT INCLUDES RECREATION ROOM W/ONE BEDROOM & ONE FULL BATH,COZY FIRE PLACE AND A WALK OUT BASEMENT,NEW ROOF,NEW AC,SEPARATED LIV/DIN ROOM LEADS TO DECK,HUGE MASTER BEDR WITH PRIVATE BATH.LOCATED NEAR MAJOR COMMUTER ROUTES,SCHOOLS,SHOPPING,AND GLENMONT METRO."
MLS#: MC6147901

WASHINGTON
150 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #402
$398000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Beautiful, open & bright luxury condo located on the penthouse level of the historic Seaton building!Soaring 10'ceilings & view of the monument, perfect for watching the fireworks! Upgrades galore incld: granite,SS apps, HWF, Marble baths, gas firplace, ex-large dining area,solid wood doors,crown molding, ceiling fans and much more! Close to metro & shops! Great value for the space! Must see."
MLS#: DC6145772

WASHINGTON
1124 E ST NE #D
$399000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Spacious, Bright & Beautiful 1 Bdrm with Stunning Bamboo floors throughout and tile surround tub/shower Bathroom. Granite kitchen countertop, ss appliances. 1901 cira Victorian building renovated & converted into 6 Condo units 2006. Across from the Lovejoy Lofts @ 12th & E, NE"
MLS#: DC6151298

WASHINGTON
318 KENTUCKY AVE SE
$399900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Sweet townhouse in Capitol Hill area. Re finished wood floors on main level, and in bedrooms. A gardeners delight with front and back yards. Recently paved parking pad (yes parking !) & a nice walk way to rear patio of house. Open and inviting living room/dining room combination with a slider for light and access to back yard. Great price, location and space."
MLS#: DC6142304

ARLINGTON
6924 FAIRFAX DR #306
$408000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Welcome home to this spacious 2BR/1BA luxury condo. 926SQ FT of well-designed space.Relax on your balcony overlooking the W&OD bike trail. Walk to EFC Metro in 10 minutes. Interior appointments include: gas heat, cooking & fireplace, Corian counters, kit & BA ceramic tile, marble entryway & fireplace surround, crown molding, separate jetted tub & shower & TWO parking spaces-1 garaged. OPEN SUNDAYS"
MLS#: AR6143440

ARLINGTON
1276 WAYNE ST #1102
$415000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "FANTASTIC 11TH FLOOR UNIT WITH VIEW OF THE CITY FROM YOUR PRIVATE BALCONY! KITCHEN IS OPEN WITH BREAKFAST BAR AND CORIAN COUNTERS. MARBLE FLOORS IN FOYER, KITCHEN & BATH! SPACIOUS WALK-IN CLOSET AND EXTRA STORAGE SPACE. SECURE BUILDING HAS OUTDOOR POOL, EXERCISE ROOM, GARAGE PARKING! MINUTES TO FINE RESTAURANTS, SHOPS & METRO! YOU'LL LOVE THIS ONE!"
MLS#: AR6142768

WASHINGTON
1111 11TH ST NW #211
$422500
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Den/ofc, dual entry FB, hdwd flrs, SS appliances, grnit counters, full w/d, recess/track lites, closet space! Inside pkg w/storage, 42" Plasma, Theater Sys. Two bldg entrances, easy walk to Metro, shops, restnts, Verizon Center, Dupont, the "New U"."
MLS#: DC6146426

WASHINGTON
1806 BELMONT RD NW #1
$425000
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "UNIQUE BI-LEVEL 1BR, 1.5 BA CONDO IN SMALL 5 UNIT VICTORIAN. OPEN LR/DR W/ FIREPLACE & BUILT-INS. SPACIOUS UPDATED KITCHEN W/ PASS THROUGH. UPPER LEVEL BR W/ HIGH CEILINGS,FIREPLACE, WALK-IN CLOSET AND CUSTOM BUILT-INS.PRIMO PRIVATE PATIO IN FRONT. PRIMO ADAMS MORGAN LOCATION STEPS TO SHOPS, RESTAURANTS. METRO IS A SHORT WALK AWAY. SHOW ANYTIME, VACANT."
MLS#: DC6153272

SILVER SPRING
3330 LEISURE WORLD BLVD N #831
$435000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "JUST LIKE NEW! 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS. KITCHEN TOTALLY REMODELLED WITH NEW CABINETS, COUNTERS, FLOOR, APPLIANCES. ALL NEW CARPETING THROUGHOUT. FRESHLY PAINTED. JUST MOVE IN. SEPARATE DINING ROOM. GLASS ENCLOSED BALCONY/SUN ROOM, GARAGE SPACE. LOCKBOX ON SUNDAY MORNING -- OPEN SUNDAY 1-4"
MLS#: MC6139569

WASHINGTON
2120 VERMONT NW #112
$440000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Spacious, never lived in 2 bedroom with open floor plan, high ceilings,state of the art kitchen, stainless steel appl.,garage parking included! Enjoy gym and roofdeck views of city skyline! 2 blocks Metro!vacant on lockbox Show any time. Lockbox at rear left of property."
MLS#: DC6145075

CHEVY CHASE
4720 CHEVY CHASE DR #102
$449000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Move right in! Bright, updated 2BR, 2BA unit w/balcony; lg. LR; sep. DR open to updated island Kit.--granite counters, stainless appliances--MBR w/updtd FBA; parquet floors thru-out; 3 walk-in closets; updtd. hall BA; assigned pkg. space conveys. Quiet street but walk to everything!"
MLS#: MC6139911

KENSINGTON
3602 SANDY CT
$449500
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Light filled brick rambler in a cul-de-sac ct. 2 levels w/open floor plan & W/O basement,Large kitchen w/breakfast area & side door to the yard. Close to shopping,parks,transportation and local schools.Short distance to 2 metro stations &Strathmore Arts Center. Updated windows,freshly painted & ready to move in!"
MLS#: MC6147887

WASHINGTON
1324 EUCLID ST NW #201
$469000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Building beautifully renovated in 2004, this 2 BR, 2 BTH corner unit has Brazilian cherry hdwd flrs,cherry cabinets, granite counter, SS applicances, recessed light, marble bathrms, W/D. Fab open floorplan with sep. dining area. ll windows.Great closet space. Security system. Walk to U St. & Columbia Hgts Metros."
MLS#: DC6146831

WASHINGTON
1441 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #410
$489900
Bedroom(s): 1
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Rarely-offered 1 BR + Study w/approx 855 SF of living space. Study is adj to BR and balcony faces the interior courtyard. Open floor plan features a coat closet, laundry closet w/ W/D, LR/DR opening onto private balcony and stylish, open kitchen with island. Walk-in BR closet, BA with two entrances, high clgs, wood flrs, crown mldg, track lighting, central AC. INCLUDES DEEDED PARKING AND STORAGE."
MLS#: DC6137589

WASHINGTON
1300 BELMONT ST NW #101
$489900
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "PRIME LOCATION 3 BLOCKS TO U ST/METRO & OFF ST PARKING INCL! Small 4 unit boutique bldg gut renov in 05! This bright sunny terrace level unit with private front & rear patios is above ground & incl lots of east facing windows (see other pics). All top-line feats incl solid core doors, nickel finishes, venetian gold granite, SS, 42" glazed maple cabs, recessed lighting, etc."
MLS#: DC6144555

WASHINGTON
1621 H ST SE
$499000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "This home with front porch comes with original woodwork, spacious rooms including first floor den, half bath, modern kitchen and formal dining room with bumped out enclosed room. Upstairs has three nice bedrooms, full bath and enclosed sunroom. Basement is partially finished with rental potential and plenty of storage. Off-steet driveway and a wonderful deck off the back."
MLS#: DC6142809

WASHINGTON
1239 VERMONT AVE NW #502
$499000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "FANTASTIC PRICE FOR LARGE (approx. 1,400 sf) 3 BR, 3 FULL BATH, LOGAN CIRCLE CONDO! HUGE UPDATED KITCHEN, NEW LAMINATE FLOORING. LAUNDRY ROOM W/FULL SIZE W/D. NEWER WINDOWS. FRESH PAINT. TERRIFIC VIEWS FR/EVERY WINDOW. 2 STORAGE UNITS. ROOFTOP DECK & POOL. CONDO FEE INCLUDES UTILITIES. CONDO IS UNITS 502 & 503 COMBINED. PET FRIENDLY."
MLS#: DC6147023

TAKOMA PARK
8005 CARROLL AVE
$499500
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "WELCOME HOME, GREAT COLONIAL LOCATED IN THE HEART OF TP! 4BR,2FB, FRESHLY PAINTED,HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT PROPERTY, ADDITION ON THE MAIN LEVEL,CENTRAL A/C,WALK OUT LEVEL BASEMENT, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OUTSIDE THE PROPERTY, SHOPPING/MAJOR HIGHWAYS NEARBY/SEPARATE DR,LIVING ROOM, FULLY FINISHED LOWER LEVEL,GREAT OUTDOORS,DRIVEWAY X2 VEHICLES."
MLS#: MC6139512

WASHINGTON
42 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #A
$499900
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "THIS IS IT!! COMPLETELY RENOVATED FROM TOP TO BOTTOM!!NO DETAIL HAS BEEN LEFT UNTOUCHED!! FABULOUS 2 LEVEL UNIT!!BRAZILIAN WIDE PLANK WOOD FLOORS, EUROPEAN CHANDELIERS, RECESSED LIGHTING, SKYLIGHTS, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, TOP OF THE LINE STAINLESS STEEL APPL'S, CERAMIC TILE, EXPOSED BRICK WALLS, HIGH CEILINGS, TONS OF NATURAL LIGHT, BAY WINDOWS AND NEW DECK!!!"
MLS#: DC6151059

CHEVY CHASE
5500 FRIENDSHIP BLVD #908N
$525000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "GO LOVELY RENOVATED 1,326 SQ FT CORNER 2BR 2BA APT IN FULL SERVICE BLDG W ROOF TOP POOL,EXER RM, GROCERY, 24 HR DESK.SELLER HAS MADE ALL THE RIGHT INPROVEMENTS INCLUDES KITCHEN W PANTRY CABINETRY, UPDATED BATHS, CUSTOM PAINT & DRAPERIES. BALCONY OVERLOOKS FRIENDSHIP BLVD JUST ABOVE ENTRANCE.STEPS TO METRO, RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS. GARAGE PARKING INCLUDED."
MLS#: MC6145269

WASHINGTON
6606 2ND ST NW
$539900
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Incredible renovation of adorable bungalow with 2/3 bedrooms, 2.5 BAs, new flooring, custom paint & trim. New Gutters & Dutch Lap siding, windows, doors. New HVAC, wiring, recessed lighting, designer ceramic,all new insulation, new kitch & applncs (2 yr old fridge). New W/D, microwave, maple cabs. Security system, upgrd carpet, whole-house music/intercom system, Centra Vac, extensive landscpg."
MLS#: DC6147530

WASHINGTON
1706 1ST ST NE
$559000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Awesome location and absolutely stunning! Sunny and bright, 3 finished levels with full bathrooms on each level. Hardwood Floors, Columns, Granite Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Ceramic Tiles, CAT5 Cabling, Large 1 car garage, Large low maintenance backyard with deck. Large rooms. Close to NY Ave Metro, 395, downtown. Exterior freshly painted."
MLS#: DC6139970

WASHINGTON
1845B BILTMORE ST NW #38
$575000
Bedroom(s): 2
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "WOW! THIS ONE SPARKLES! Only steps to convenience of Adams Morgan but in peaceful tranquility of Kalorama Triangle. Location, Convenience and Spacious."
MLS#: DC6142645

MONTGOMERY VILLAGE
20403 HANCOCK BRIDGE PL
$585000
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Fantastic opportunity to get into this beautiful 10 yr old, M/I-built brick front home. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac, this home features a lovely 2 story entry foyer w/ hardwd flrs, step down LR and large formal dining room, open kt, awesome master BR & Bath w/ vault ceil, security system, large trex deck, Home Wired for Computer."
MLS#: MC6138844

WASHINGTON
220 S ST NE
$595000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "*HOT ECKINGTON!! Great renovation located walking distance between 3 metro's. Hardwood flrs, crown and chair molding, CD/intercom system in every room, granite countertops, ss appliances, deck, remote control garage for 2 cars, mba w/sep. shr & tub, HUGE bsmt w/wetbar, w/d, security system, 3-sided gas fireplace, plenty of closet space, SPA shower w/10 shower heads much more!"
MLS#: DC6147021

WASHINGTON
3824 10TH ST NW
$599900
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "This stunning 4BD/3.5BA renovation offers: Central A/C, radiant floor heat, Kitchenaid stainless appliances, granite counters in kit & BAs, all new plumbing & electrical, upstairs laundry room w/fullsize W/D, & new windows. Inlaid hardwd flrs were brought back to their original luster! Parking for 4 & only 2 blocks to Metro & 6 blks to Tivoli,Giant,Target,etc."
MLS#: DC6152272

WASHINGTON
443 11TH ST NE
$639000
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "REWARD YOURSELF FOR BEING CITY-BOUND IN AUG! STATELY HOME STANDING SERENELY ABOVE THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE WITH AN ALL PERVASIVE CALM PERMEATING THE GORGEOUS INTERIOR! NEWLY REFINISHED FLRS POSITIVELY GLOW & THERE IS NOTHING CONFINING ABOUT THE SPACE! FAMILY-FRIENDLY TSK! FIN. BSMT TRANSLATES INTO 3 GREAT BR + DEN/OFFC/CHILD'S BR. PROF. LANDSCAPED GDN W/PROFUSION OF COLOR! A BRILLIANT GEM AWAITS YOU!!!"
MLS#: DC6145768

ARLINGTON
6717 31ST ST N
$649950
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "Want the charm & location of North Arlington but prefer newer homes, THIS IS IT! Over 100K of upgrades have been added since 2000. New Kit inc maple cabinet, hrwd flr & new Appl., Refinished hrwd flrs on main level. Bath remodeled w/ jacuzzi tub.LL finished w huge RR, Den & full Bath. Screened in Porch & w/o to Belgard patio & fenced yard. Furnace, Roof & AC replaced. SEEING IS BELIEVING!"
MLS#: AR6149555

TAKOMA PARK
7410 MAPLE AVE
$650000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 1
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "What a wonderful house, high ceilings, spacious rooms, easy flow. Relocating owners hate to leave this very comfortable home which they love and have significantly upgraded. Sharp remodeled kit, stylishly upgraded powder rm, beautifully refinished white oak floors, much of interior freshly painted. Fabulous outdoor space, patio & deep deep flat yard. 4 blocks to Metro."
MLS#: MC6138662

SILVER SPRING
14909 COBBLESTONE DR
$725000
Bedroom(s): 4
Full Bath(s): 3
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "JUST REDUCED! Fantastic spacious Colonial located at the end of a cul-de-sac on a beautiful lot w/a gorgeous in-ground pool! Wonderful feat incl: pretty wd flrs, awesome Sunroom addition, FF Office, huge room sizes, updated Isl Kit w/big bay looking out to the pool, great fin LL w/Rec rm, wetbar, new carpet & 3rd BA, oversized 2-car Gar & lots more! Pool area w/slate patio/deck, new liner & pump!"
MLS#: MC6150593

WASHINGTON
2540 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #408
$998000
Bedroom(s): 3
Full Bath(s): 2
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "FEATURED IN BEST ADDRESSES, THIS CLASSIC 1923 BEAUX ARTS LANDMARK IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ON EMBASSY ROW, JUST A SHORT DISTANCE TO GEORGETOWN & DOWNTOWN WASHINGTON. WONDERFUL SUNLIGHT POURS THROUGH THE LARGE WINDOWS OF THIS UPSCALE APARTMENT, WHICH BOASTS A COMMANDING VIEW OF THE WASHINGTON NATIONAL CATHEDRAL & ROCK CREEK PARK."
MLS#: DC6137891

WASHINGTON
3620 QUESADA ST NW
$999900
Bedroom(s): 5
Full Bath(s): 4
In the listing agent's inimitable words: "A TRUE TREASURE w/ great location! SHOWS LIKE A DREAM!Gleaming hardwood floors,Recently renovated kitchen with SS appliances & tile floor. Wonderfully tiled baths. French doors in living & dining rms.Skylights on top level. Screened in porch.Offstreet parking for 4 cars. Steps to shops, transportation."
MLS#: DC6143423

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