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Relocations and the restaurants dilemma

By Doug Francis

180px-cheers_cast_photo1A quarter of my clients relocate from another part of the world, and they are typically eager to get out of the McLean Hilton to explore their new life in the D.C. suburbs. And a key part of that search for meaning is finding a new favorite restaurant. Not necessarily a place like Cheers, but I imagine restaurants with local personality, charm, a decent menu or wine list. It’s all part of the experience of establishing yourself any where you might be moving to, no?

Well, a few months ago when picking a client up at the hotel, I asked where she and her husband had eaten dinner. She promptly replied that they had been craving Italian food and went to the Olive Garden. Yes, my eyes rolled without her seeing me. She had been stuck in the hotel waiting hours for him to finish work, and then they went to an Italian restaurant in Vienna that is virtually indistinguishable from one in Atlanta or Phoenix.

Where is the exciting sense of adventure in that?

Relocating is fun with the excitement of starting a new life. There are always special spots that may take years to find and careful insider tips are always appreciated. So I gave them a suggestion that is a little more authentic Italian food for next time, Da Domenico located close to his office off Greensboro Drive. As it turns out, he had been there before and loved it but did not realize where it was located

It was time to get specific so I suggested they go out on a limb that night and try a special restaurant in Vienna called Bazin’s on Church Street. The next day I heard only raves about the cooking, wine list, service and the nice couple who run the place (thank you Patrick) who introduced themselves and made the evening special. Even making a special desert just for them.

Getting to know your new home town,  just a little deeper, gives extra excitement to the relocation and what the future may hold for you. And knowing some good local restaurants is a good start.

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Filed Under: Blog, Living Here Tagged With: Church Street, d.c.suburbs, relocation, restaurants, Vienna

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!

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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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