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Oil Tank Concerns | Vienna Home Buyers

By Doug Francis

Some homes in Vienna VA were built with underground oil tanks to store heating oil, but have been converted over to natural gas heating systems. In cases like this, home buyers need to know if the old oil tank was removed from the property or just abandon in place. Pollard EnvironmentalAn abandon tank will have some documentation as required by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

When I look at homes with home buyer clients in areas of Vienna or Oakton, there are a few specific things I look for including the current type of heating fuel and if the heating system has been replaced. Pollard EnvironmentalAlso, a quick look in the yard may reveal the top of a buried heating oil tank with a fill pipe or vent pipe sticking up in the yard. These are generally in plain site because oil tanks are filled a few times a season by an oil delivery man.

Input from the right people is essential

If there is an old oil tank then it is important to understand the situation before making a rash decision to avoid buying the property. Ultimately, it really isn’t very expensive to have an environmental firm excavate the tank and haul it away. What is important is to know the condition of the tank and that a properly licensed contractor has completed the work.

I provide my Northern Virginia real estate clients with professionals to talk with about complex issues like oil tanks, legal matters, tax situations, structural engineering, mortgage options and more because my clients know I deliver a high level of attention to their needs.

If you want more information then read more at this tip for Oakton home buyers.

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Filed Under: Blog, Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: buyer agent, home buyer, real estate, Vienna Virginia

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

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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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