Arlington Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Arlington, Virginia - VA, USA)

Arlington is a prominent residential district located immediately across the Potomac River from Washington DC. It is home to the National Cemetery, as well as the Pentagon, and many of its residents are involved with government, politics or lobbying.

The Arlington suburbs are becoming an increasingly popular place in which to rent or buy property. In years past, local residents had to commute across the river for everything from work to leisure, but today these neighborhoods are essentially self-sufficient, hosting an excellent selection of restaurants and shops. Even tourism in Arlington is on the rise.


Prices are relatively expensive this close to the capital, and it is not uncommon for spacious, freestanding houses in the suburbs to sell for high six-figure sums. There is plenty of variance, however, as the economic downturn took its toll on property values. As prices begin to rebound, investors are taking notice of Arlington properties.

Renting Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are widely available in Arlington, due to the nature of the community. Foreign government employees, visiting lobbyists and representatives of governmental and non-governmental organizations make use of serviced apartments while on business in the capital. These units are well suited for anyone staying more than two or three weeks.

Serviced apartments are found on the grid of residential streets between Arlington's cemetery and commercial center. They typically feature quality amenities and a level of in-room service that varies according to the arrangement. For stays of less than two weeks, a serviced apartment is likely to cost the same as a mid- to upper-range hotel. Over longer periods and with a rental agreement, serviced apartments represent excellent value for money.

Buying Apartments and Houses

Affordable apartments and homes are available for sale in the residential districts, specifically on the streets that branch off of Pershing Drive and Arlington Boulevard. Buyer-seller agreements vary, but normally the seller pays a higher fee that can equal as much as ten percent of the sale price.

The buyer is responsible for the lower fees associated with transferring the title, ordering inspection and appraisals. In Virginia, the buyer pays closing costs of around or less than two percent, although in Arlington County neighborhoods a premium is attached to property, increasing the percentage paid. This figure varies depending on the amount of the mortgage and size of the down-payment.

Real Estate Agents

Since Arlington has a residential atmosphere, it is easy to find local realtors who can help with the specifics. Don't be in a rush to settle on a property or agency, as property values across the DC metropolitan area have been somewhat volatile. Above all, make sure that you are comfortable with your realtor's level of experience and expertise.

Check out the following Arlington realtors and real estate agents:

Long and Foster Real Estate
Address: 4600 Lee Highway, Arlington, Virginia VA, 22207, USA
Tel: +1 703 522 0500
Email: info@longandfoster.com
Website: www.longandfoster.com
Long and Foster has holdings across the east coast and its Arlington office handles many apartments and homes in the area.

Arthur A. Hale Real Estate
Address: 1008 North Glebe Road, Arlington, Virginia VA, 22201, USA
Tel: +1 703 524 2258
Email: ahale@arthurhale.com
Website: www.arthurhale.com
Arthur Hale is a well-reputed realtor who works primarily within this part of Virginia.

Donohoe Real Estate
Address: 1005 North Glebe Road, Arlington, Virginia VA, 22201, USA
Tel: +1 703 276 8400
Email: contact via website
Website: www.donohoerealestate.com
Donohoe Real Estate is a prominent investment and brokerage firm that assists commercial buyers and property investors in Arlington and the Greater DC area.