Buying first house .. Fort Hunt area?
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Anonymous
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Hmm - I would think that at your budget, you could afford a nice home pretty much anywhere that was not Langley/Mclean/North Arlington. I think the issue for you is identifying neighborhood attributes that you care about.
Personally, I like the Fort Hunt area. I think the homes are nicely built (e.g., intended to be a little more higher end) than many adjacent neighborhoods, and the proximity to the Potomac is nice for the kids. However, I would be worried about the education at West Potomac High School. |
Anonymous
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PP thanks for the links! We have an agent down there who has been wonderful so far. We actually got married at Mount Vernon and have always loved the area. Old town is amazing - with all the shops and restaurants. I can see us not going into the city as much since we have everything close to us there.
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Anonymous
PP again - sure thing! If I didn't work in the city I'd have no need or desire to go! 
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Anonymous
| OP here - Yes I agree with the education at the middle school/high school levels. While we have taken that into account we decided that at this time since a) we don't have kids yet and b) it will easily be 10 years before any foreseen kid goes to middle school or highschool we will just have to figure that out when the time gets here. Perhaps the schools will be better in the next decade. Or if not then we will explore private schools or perhaps move. |
Anonymous
| OP, despite some informed advice about other places, it is obvious that you (and hopefully your DH too) remain "wedded" to the idea of living in the Fort Hunt neighborhoods. Though I am one of those who previously counseled you to look elsewhere, I now say "follow your heart"! |
Anonymous
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PP - I do appreciate all of the advice! We are keeping an open mind on areas in Northern Virginia however through our extensive research (and limited budget) so far Fort Hunt is our top choice! If the right place shows up in McLean or North Arlington we would definitely consider it. It will definitely be more up to my DH than me regarding where we live since he is the one who has to do the commute ever day! I have to drive to Fairfax once a week so its not too big of a deal for me.
Thanks again for all of your advice! |
Anonymous
Anonymous
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You may also check out the neighborhoods in 22310/Wilton Woods that go to Clermont Elementary. Solid roomy homes, close to Old Town, better access to 395 so you could avoid the Parkway and Route 1 commute. You're still close to the river, about a 7 minute drive to the middle of Old Town.
Here's a pretty good one, with a big yard: http://www.redfin.com/VA/Alexandria/3614-Oakland-Dr-22310/home/9759435 |
Anonymous
| I think Virginia Hills also goes to Clermont Elementary... at least, parts of it. |
Anonymous
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Hi OP,
I live in Fort Hunt and commute to DC. No, I can't really compare it to other local commutes, but I truly do not mind driving along the parkway with a cup of coffee in the morning. Our neighbors are very friendly, the setting is beautiful, and our 1960's house (purchased for $650 two years ago) is very well built and comfortable. I have no complaints. |
Anonymous
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We live in Ft Hunt and love it. We have no regrets about moving here (it's been five years).
DH commutes to DC everyday. Leaving at 730 am, he is definitely at his desk by 815, maybe earlier. It usually takes him a little less than an hour at night, leaving between 5 and 6. |
Anonymous
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We were set on buying in the Fort Hunt area when we relocated to the area many years ago. We just so happened to find a better house in the Falls Church part of FfX county. I think either would have been great, but I was happy to end up where we did. I think the schools are better and the commute has been very easy for us (metro to WFC or 66
With either a child to make it 2 or a hybrid for the exemption). If I had found the perfect house in the Fort Hunt area, I'm sure it would have worked out, too. |
Anonymous
Gross. |
Anonymous
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I moved to the Fort Hunt area last summer and so far we love it. When I drive, I take the 495 to 295 route to DC and it takes me about 30 minutes at the most and that is during rush hour. During off peak times, it only takes about 15-20 minutes. But most of the time, I ride my bicycle to work, using the Mount Vernon Trail and that takes me a little under an hour.
My kids go to Belle View Elementary and it is great. My oldest will be going to Carl Sandburg next year and the parents we've spoken to say it is great and the principal in there now has really turned the school around. |
Anonymous
| Agree with WSHS area. Great schools, family friendly, and can find very walkable houses...some great shopping. Centers nearby and the town center on the way sure to enhance your investment. |