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Locking-In, Commuting, Schools, and …

By Doug Francis

Updated in 2023

Three common questions I’m hearing in 2019 are:

  • When should we lock-in our rate?
  • I’m commuting to _______, how’s the commute?
  • What do you know about the school?
  • Is there shopping nearby?

Locking in a mortgage rate

Mortgage rates dropped unexpectedly in early 2019 providing a unique opportunity for anyone who is house hunting to lock-in a long-term mortgage rate. This is really cheap money and it can really help you financially since it is a fixed expense (although taxes may go up).

You will “lock-in” your rate after you have a contract on a home.

Mortgage rates typically vary depending on your credit, but also based on the time-frame from contract to closing. Lenders want to reduce risk, so you will get a better rate if you are closer to the scheduled Settlement date.

Although that sounds simple, two problems we have in the Vienna real estate market is a lack of inventory and the cost of housing. To live here you may have to compromise since the location and overall community is so desirable.

Unless you are a risk taker, lock in your rate today.

Commuting, commuting, commuting

No one really wants to spend time in traffic, missing appointments or being late to a game.

Now, with Interstate 66 getting an overhaul, the bottlenecks are getting worse as Waze-addicted drivers discover neighborhood cut-throughs (which used to be my secret) and cause back ups on streets with four-way stop signs. Traffic here isn’t a new concern, it’s the drivers who are the problem.

Include a commuting element in your plan, your home-buying wish list.

Absolutely understand your future commute before submitting an offer.

The school ranking isn’t an 8+

Fairfax County Public Schools are getting a little backlash from the rating systems that real estate websites assign to a school. In fact, a poor rating can impact real estate values for years.

So people are asking and asking where my own kids went to school… maybe hoping for a testimonial.

The FCPS system remains strong although class sizes remain at capacity in nearly every school I know. Langley High School is the only one with room to grow and we may see a little redistricting in McLean in the future.

Although I do share information with clients like where the French immersion program is, or IB Programs and AP High School Programs. It is food for thought and can impact your home search criteria.

Good teachers retire, schools get renovated, and school rankings change.

Lifestyle: Trader Joe’s or Caffe Amouri

Shopping has always been a concern because it can impact daily quality of life.

Maybe grocery shopping is critical, or having a coffee shop that isn’t another Starbucks?

Some want a CrossFit place like The Mill on Mill Street in Vienna. Or easy access to the W&OD Trail for an after-work workout.

Each of these can be the basis for the community you want to be a part of, which defines your lifestyle getting you excited about life. Getting a jump start on that lifestyle is part of my work when finding you a home.

I get that.

Let me know if you have a question about living in Vienna… I’ll answer it.

Filed Under: Blog, Home Buyer Tips, Living Here Tagged With: Home Buyer Tips, Vienna Real Estate

About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Vienna real estate agent Doug Francis

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, building an addition, and knowing the neighbors. Today, home buyers are attracted to Vienna because of the sense of community, walkability, and small town lifestyle.

So, what’s next after your 25 years? It’s a conversation many of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or get closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead with their updated plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and still sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 .  Cheers!

Considering selling your home?

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“Doug nailed it! Within days, we had three offers, one of which not only met, but far exceeded all of our goals.”
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– Scott and Jennie

About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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Doug: (703) 304-6827

TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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