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Two Real Estate Markets in One

By Doug Francis

Northern Virginia home buyers looking to move to Vienna are witnessing an interesting spring real estate market in May. Well, at least I find it interesting because detached homes in the $530,000 range are seeing one market while the $1,000,000 plus range is seeing another.

Nielson's Frozen Custard Shop, Church Street, Vienna VA 22180

Nielson's Frozen Custard on Church Street

Last weekend, a RE/MAX Presidential team colleague put a 1960’s Town of Vienna home on the market at $539,900 and had seven (7) offers! Yes, even without the “home buyer tax rebate program”, people know that living in Vienna is valuable. Obviously the schools are good and commute times are decent, but the unique sense of community is the key with the W&OD Bike Trail, Concerts on The Town Green, The Vienna Farmers’ Market, and Memorial Day Weekend’s Viva Vienna festival!

Maybe it’s Nielson’s Frozen Custard Shop?

On the other hand, people wanting to move to Vienna in the $1,000,000 price range have ninety four (yes, 94) homes for sail sale to look at! And having represented some buyers in this price range recently, I know that there is negotiating room. If you want to talk about the real estate market then send me an e-mail or call me. See some of the stats that I posted recently for a couple of Vienna zip codes on the Vienna Home Blog.

This sharp contrast between the two price ranges is a pattern that I have seen over the past year. Higher-end buyers were impacted by the lack of credit available for loans in the “Super Jumbo” category last year, but mortgage guys that I know (from reputable banks) can now get these loans done up to $2,000,000.

That’s what I love about the real estate business!

When you are going into “battle” against six other real estate offers then you will need one negotiation strategy, and if you are in the higher end market then you will need another. If I didn’t like the competition involved in this business, then I wouldn’t still be doing it after 19 years.

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Filed Under: Blog, Home Buyer Tips, Living Here Tagged With: buyer agent, home buyer, real estate, Town of Vienna, Vienna, Vienna Farmers Market

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, many of those great neighbors have retired and I was able to help them take that next step smoothly.

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 help clients get organized helping maximize the value for today’s home buyer. 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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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!

Thank you for electing me to the Vienna Town Council!

Yes, I am a candidate for the Vienna Town Council this year, 11/4/2025. Learn More Now!

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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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