Currently, condos represent a tremendous opportunity for potential investment and their underlying values have been rising even faster than those of single-family homes! In addition, condos and co-ops are cheaper to buy than a single family homes, and easier to rent. Moreover, because the condo and co-op boards are responsible for the major maintenance items (plumbing, roof, heating, water, grounds), an investor's involvement in management is less burdensome than with single-family or commercial property.

Studios and small units are easily rented in the Northern Virginia area because of the relatively high level of transitional workers and students. With a high concentration of government contractors, embassy personnel, students at various colleges, interns and other temporary residents, units that might seem too small to be attractive investments find tenants readily. These smaller units are also more affordable, with co-ops in the Rosslyn area ranging from only $120,000 (November 2004) to 1BRs in Falls Church and Alexandria for under $200,000.

In addition to the MLS listings, we investigate "for sale by owner" opportunities and foreclosures. Many of these situations provide the right investment vehicle at the right price, particularly for investors who don't mind investing a little "sweat equity" along with the down payment!

If an investor wants to "cash out" of a real estate investment, the same factors that made it rentable make it saleable. Many of the temporary workers and students who come to the area find they like it here and stay on. They frequently become buyers. In our experience, when a property doubles or triples in price (not unlikely in the last 2-4 years in Northern Virginia), it may be time to sell. We can help you determine the right time to sell and list your property on the most favorable terms.