Real Estate Agent in Alexandria VA

Buying or selling a home in Alexandria VA can be overwhelming. If you’re a potential buyer, there are numerous house tours that you would want to attend to narrow down your pick and with the amount of paperwork involved, it can become a stressful process. If you are looking to sell your home in the Northern Virginia area, there is also the same amount of stress involved: finding a new home while making sure you are able to sell your current home, getting the most value for your property, and more. For many, these processes are often put off for a long time because they may not know where to start. At Michael Gailliot Homes, we specialize in home buying, selling, income property, land sales, and acquisition. As a real estate agent in the Alexandria, VA area, Michael Gailliot has many years of experience helping individuals and families navigate these situations and allow them to make the right decisions. 

Buying a Home in Alexandria VA

Whether you are expanding to accommodate a growing family in Alexandria, VA, downsizing because of a life transition or buying your first home, we will walk you through every step of the process involved. We will guide you from the loan process, identifying schools, budgeting for your down payment, to finding a dream home that fits your lifestyle and needs. If you’re interested in buying a home in Alexandria, VA please contact us.

Selling a Home in Alexandria VA

Are you planning on selling a home? You will never know for sure when your home becomes appealing or unappealing based on the trends and market demands. With the help of our real estate experts and listing agents, you can be guaranteed that your home will be sold quickly and for the most net value possible. Contact us today to talk about how we can help to make your home more appealing in the eyes of home-buyers and get the best market price for your property. 

Income Property in Alexandria VA

Income properties in the Northern Virginia region have become very desirable due to the ever growing and stable local real estate market. However, like any other investment, you need to have enough knowledge and experience to walk away with desired profits and value. An experienced real estate agent can help you on this matter. We have vast knowledge of the local real estate market trends and the economy to assure you are making the right investment and that you see a positive ROI on your income property in Alexandria VA.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which Alexandria neighborhoods are right for you?

Just like any other cities in Virginia, Alexandria is made up of neighborhoods that help give the city its unique appeal. When choosing a home in Alexandria, you have the option to live in the Alexandria city itself or on the other side of Alexandria which is governed by Fairfax County. 

What makes Alexandria a good place to settle into is it’s conveniently located just outside Washington D.C, making it an attractive commuter suburb. Despite the higher than average cost of living due to transportation, people are still considering living in Alexandria. The top neighborhoods to live in are:

• North Ridge

North Ridge is primarily residential with single-family homes located on quiet side streets that were mostly built between the 1930s and 1960s. Its community has worked hard to hold on to its rural past while its suburban living grows. The local fire station and the Alexandria Police Satellite Facility provides both security and safety to its residence. 

• Eisenhower East

The Eisenhower East neighborhood includes a variety of natural and urban open spaces and parks which make it a livable community. It also has a balance of jobs and residents, and a retail/entertainment center, serving both a local and regional market. Another sport that you could enjoy is golf at the nearby Belle Haven Country Club. 

• Fort Hunt

If you wish to live in a more luxurious neighborhood in Alexandria, Fort Hunt is a good choice. It has been known to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the city, too. Fort Hunt is a diverse community with residents of various ancestries such as British and Slovak. Also, the public schools in Fort Hunt are highly rated. 

• Taylor Run

Taylor Run is well-known for its above average public schools and fostering community with fun events. In this neighborhood, most of the residents own their homes and it has a number of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Being a safe and walkable community, this neighborhood is one of the most livable neighborhoods in the city.

• Old Town

Old Town is best known as the city’s nationally designated historic district. In this neighborhood, you can see a number of shopping centers, restaurants with a vibrant waterfront experience. Walking, biking, boat, and food tours are the perks of living in this neighborhood. On top of that, Old Town has more affordable housing compared to other neighborhoods in the city and it is safe to live in.

How Much Money Do You Need to Save to Buy a Home in Alexandria?

In terms of amount, there is no standard rule for how much you need to save. However, in order to avoid additional private mortgage insurance (PMI), you may need to have at least 20% down payment. Given this, lenders or borrowers may allow you to put as little as 3% up-front for your mortgage. Let’s say your target real estate costs around $565,000. This means that you’ll need to save up $565,000 for the down payment. Yes, it is a handful of money and not everyone can generate that amount, but, there are some lenders or borrowers that can negotiate a down payment that’s lower than 20%. VA loans and USDA loans don’t require any down payment.

Furthermore, the FDA (Federal Housing Agency) loans offer lower down payment for those who have low credit scores and can’t afford to pay up the 20% down payment. You can pay up at least 3.5% for FDA and VA loans. 

Should I rent or buy a house in Alexandria, Virginia?

The pricing of houses in the Alexandria, VA real estate market has increased over the years and needless to say, some people are choosing to rent rather than buy a property. However, if we consider the increase in the rate of rental fees, buying a house can be a good option. Right now, the interest rates are still low and some lenders accept lower down payment, you can take advantage of it when purchasing a house. 

With the help of a reliable realtor, you can avail of sizable tax breaks in accordance with your mortgage interest deductions. Keep in mind that when you buy a home, it’s more than just ownership. The equity grows over time and you can capitalize on it. Plus, the home value increases over time and when you decide to sell it, you can reap benefits.

School Ratings for Alexandria, VA? 

Alexandria City houses some of the top-ranked public schools in Virginia wherein Lyles-crouch Elementary School, Maury Elementary School and Charles Barrett Elementary School are on the top of the list. With an average rating of 52% in math proficiency and 69% in reading proficiency, there’s no wonder Alexandria, VA gained its academic reputation. For this school year alone, there are 19 public schools that are serving a total of 15,710 in the city of Alexandria.

Top things to do in Alexandria, VA?

When you are living in Alexandria, VA, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you like shopping, dining out, visiting historical places, or simply walking around the city, Alexandria got it all for you. 

• Dining

In case you need to satisfy your cravings or fill in your hungry stomach, you can come by the Old Town neighborhood. There is a line of restaurants that serve various meal options any time of the day. From casual eating, to elegant dining, you can find a restaurant that best suits your preference at Old Town. 

Aside from that, you can also enjoy outdoor dining with a panoramic view of the Potomac River. If you wish to experience various cuisines, may it be Asian, Pacific, or Continental, you’ll never run out of options. Plus, you can stay longer if you want to experience their savory desserts.

• Tourist Attractions

Alexandria, VA is known for its historical Mount Vernon, a former plantation of ex-president George Washington. More interesting landmarks built the city’s fame including Carlyle House, Alexandria Black History Museum, Torpedo Factory Art Center, and National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum. Not to mention, the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Park is a great landmark wherein tourists can walk the grounds and see cannons, reconstructed quarters of high-ranking soldiers, and more.

• Malls

Shopping around Alexandria, VA can be exciting. You can find the largest collection of independent boutiques in the D.C. region at the King Street Mile in Old Town. Feel free to shop for anything you want from antiques, and art galleries to jewelry stores, and souvenir shops at and Del Ray’s Mount Vernon Avenue beyond. Alexandria Commons, Van Dorn Plaza, Seminary Plaza, and Bradlee Shopping Center are among your options if you want to go shopping.

• Outdoor Activities

Enjoy the beauty of nature by indulging in various outdoor activities at Alexandria, VA, Breathe fresh air as you bike Mount Vernon Trail. This city also provides various outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, boating, swimming, and picnicking. Take a leisure walk along waterfront parks. Plus, enjoy a stress-free excursion to a waterside stroll to a Del Ray mural tour and more. 

Costs of living in Alexandria, VA?

Alexandria, VA is considered as one of the most livable places in the U.S. Being a reputable city, it’s cost of living is 44% higher than the national average. It is comparable to the cost of living in the Metropolitan DC area which amounts to $105,539, or $8,795 per month. Considering this, if you are a family of four, it will be expected for you to earn at least $105,239 annually. Needless to say, it takes an ample amount of money in order to live in this city.