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Stormwater and New Homes

By Doug Francis

Landscaping stormwater areas in new homes in Vienna VA

Seeing a small ditch or poorly landscaped rocky area is what home buyers are startled to see when looking at new homes in Vienna. They can become an all-consuming focal point… and not in a very good way.

weather chart from WJLA TV 7 in Washington DC

First off, there was a rainfall record set in 2018.

Stormwater runoff has become an issue across the country as record levels of rain have been added to meteorological logbooks almost everywhere.

And the traditional route for downspout water has been to dump at each corner of a house or be routed away in pipes or tubes of a flexible black drain pipe.

Today’s engineered solution is to build a stormwater filtration area located on the property intending to slow down the flow and allow the ground to absorb the maximum amount of water. The intended result is less water and fewer pollutants getting into the untreated stormwater system which eventually flows into the Potomac River.

The ultimate goal here is to be in compliance with the Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Act reducing runoff that flows over pavement and yard areas, picking up pollutants such as excessive nutrients, motor oils, sediment, trash, heavy metals and various chemicals.

When builders submit plans in the Town of Vienna, there are many levels of review including a site plan showing a proposed stormwater filtration area. Since water flows downhill, geography typically dictates where the area will need to be establish.

Make it a temporary scar

Stormwater retention area in a front yard in Vienna VA

New homeowners shouldn’t consider this area a “scar” on the property that they’ll have to live with, but a design opportunity to consult with a landscape architect to plant shrubs or build a stacked rock wall.

Native planting can also help maintain the soil and survive the hardship duty you have given them. Maybe a Chokeberry or Winterberry bush for added color.

Adding value to your home

Landscaping these areas will not only add visual appeal, but also adds value in the long run especially when you plan to sell your home. These stormwater areas are now requirements for new homes in Vienna, so tackle these scars and make them look amazing.

Filed Under: Blog, Home Buyer Tips, Home Seller Tips Tagged With: infill homes, landscape design, 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!

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

Office: 703-319-3344
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