Prince William County Real Estate Blog: March 2009

Not everyone wants to live in a mega townhome subdivision.  For those who prefer the neighborly atmosphere of a smaller community then Westwater Point is a Springfield location you should consider.  Built in the late 80's by the VanMetre Companies Westwater Point is a small enclave of 100 town homes set among hills about 1/2 mile west of Rolling Road with an entrance on the Fairfax County Parkway.  It has quick access to all major commuting routes, I-95, I-395 and I-495 (the Capital Beltway)

One Westwater Point town home has sold in 2009 as of this report.  The net sales price of $368,000 is 5% below the net sales price of $385,417 for 2008.  That compares very favorably with the 23% decline for all of Fairfax County when comparing 2009 results to 2008

Commuting

• It is about a 15 minute drive to the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station.  Proximity to the Franconia-Springfiled Metro makes Westwater Point an ideal location for commuting to the Pentagon, Washington, DC and all work centers along the subway system
•  Fort Belvoir is approximately 15 minutes away via Rolling Road to

Schools and Library

• Children are in the West Springfield High School Pyramid.  However, it is best to locate schools for a specific home address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Approximately 15 minutes from the Pohick Regional Library

Shopping

• Two neighborhood shopping centers, Huntsman Square and Saratoga are approximately 10 minutes from Westwater Point

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 10 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 15 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 10 minutes

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Not everyone wants to live in a mega townhome subdivision.  For those who prefer the neighborly atmosphere of a smaller community then Millwood Estates is a Springfield location you should consider.  There are 80 homes conveniently located on Old Keene Mill Road at Rolling Road.  As you can tell by the pictures below Millwood is one very well maintained community

The net sales price of the one Millwood town home that has sold so far in 2009 is 13% lower than the net sales price for 2008.  That compares very favorably with the 23% decline from 2008 to 2009 for all of Fairfax County.

Commuting

• It is about a 15 minute drive to the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station.  Proximity to the Franconia-Springfiled Metro makes it an ideal location for commuting to the Pentagon, Washington, DC and all National Capital Area work centers
• Fairfax County Commuter Bus #310  to the Franconia-Springfield Metro is available 7 DAYS A WEEK on OLD KEENE MILL ROAD.
• The Cardinal Plaza Slug Line (across the street) has service to all DC locations and the Pentagon
• Metrobus Route 18P provides Pentagon service on Rolling Road
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 15 minutes via Rolling Road to US1

Schools and Library

• Children are in the West Springfield High School Pyramid.  You can locate the schools for a specific address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Approximately 10 minutes from the Pohick Regional Library

Shopping

• Two neighborhood shopping centers, Old Keene Mill Center and Cardinal Forest Plaza are across the street from Millwood at the intersection of Old Keene Mill and Rolling Roads - one has Whole Foods and the other has Giant Foods

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 15 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 15 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 20 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 20 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 15 minutes

There are two other Springfield town home communities within 5 minutes that enjoy the same commuting, school and community features as Millwood - they are

•  CHARLESTOWN and
•  RHYGATE 

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area. We invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Daventry (Hunter Village) is located between Old Keene Mill Road and Rolling Road where it intersects with the Fairfax County Parkway making it one of the most accessible subdivisions in Springfield.  Additionally, it is only about ten minutes from I-95 and less than five minutes from the Fairfax County Parkway

There are detached homes and town homes with no garage or with one and two car garages - the community was developed in the 1980's.  It's common areas are impeccably maintained

Since there are no Daventry non-garage town homes on the market and none have sold in 2009 it is impossible to compare 2009 sales with 2008 results.

Commuting

• Fairfax County Connector 310 takes approximately 20 minutes to the Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station facilitating service to  the Pentagon, Washington DC and all employment centers along the subway system
• Metrobus Routes 18G and !8H offer express bus service to the Pentagon Metrorail Station - the trip takes about 20 minutes
• Slug Lines are available within ten minutes
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 20 minutes  

Schools and Library

• Although Daventry is in the Lee High School Pyramid, it is best to locate the schools for a specific address using the Fairfax County Public School Locator.
• Pohick Regional Library is within 15 minutes.

Shopping

• There are 4 neighborhood shopping centers within 10 to 15 minutes with Springfield Plaza being the largest of them.

Recreation

• Daventry has its' own pool and tennis courts as well as tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 10 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 20 minutes.
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 20 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Daventry (Hunter Village) is located between Old Keene Mill Road and Rolling Road where it intersects with the Fairfax County Parkway making it one of the most accessible subdivisions in Springfield.  Additionally, it is only about ten minutes from I-95 and less than five minutes from the Fairfax County Parkway

There are detached homes and town homes with no garage or with one and two car garages - the community was developed in the 1980's.  It's common areas are impeccably maintained

The one Daventry sale in 2009 of one car garage town homes is 4% ahead of the 2008 results.  That compares very favorably to the Fairfax County decline of 23% in 2009 compared to 2008 for town homes

mmuting

Commuting

• Fairfax County Connector 310 takes approximately 20 minutes to the Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station facilitating service to  the Pentagon, Washington DC and all employment centers along the subway system
• Metrobus Routes 18G and !8H offer express bus service to the Pentagon Metrorail Station - the trip takes about 20 minutes
• Slug Lines are available within ten minutes
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 20 minutes  

Schools and Library

• Although Daventry is in the Lee High School Pyramid, it is best to locate the schools for a specific address using the Fairfax County Public School Locator.
• Pohick Regional Library is within 15 minutes.

Shopping

• There are 4 neighborhood shopping centers within 10 to 15 minutes with Springfield Plaza being the largest of them.

Recreation

• Daventry has its' own pool and tennis courts as well as tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 10 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 20 minutes.
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 20 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Daventry (Hunter Village) is located between Old Keene Mill Road and Rolling Road where it intersects with the Fairfax County Parkway making it one of the most accessible subdivisions in Springfield.  Additionally, it is only about ten minutes from I-95 and less than five minutes from the Fairfax County Parkway

There are detached homes and town homes with no garage or with one and two car garages - the community was developed in the 1980's.  It's common areas are impeccably maintained

Since only three detached Daventry homes sold in 2008 and none have been offered for sale in 2009 it appears the homeowners that do not have to sell have decided to wait until prices increase

Commuting

• Fairfax County Connector 310 takes approximately 20 minutes to the Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station facilitating service to  the Pentagon, Washington DC and all employment centers along the subway system
• Metrobus Routes 18G and !8H offer express bus service to the Pentagon Metrorail Station - the trip takes about 20 minutes
• Slug Lines are available within ten minutes
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 20 minutes  

Schools and Library

• Although Daventry is in the Lee High School Pyramid, it is best to locate the schools for a specific address using the Fairfax County Public School Locator.
• Pohick Regional Library is within 15 minutes.

Shopping

• There are 4 neighborhood shopping centers within 10 to 15 minutes with Springfield Plaza being the largest of them.

Recreation

• Daventry has its' own pool and tennis courts as well as tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 10 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 20 minutes.
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 20 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Newington Forest (over 1800 homes) is the largest subdivision in Springfield.  It is located in the southeastern corner of the Springfield area of Fairfax County.  Since construction began in the 70's and was completed in the 80's there are numerous features not to be found in many newer subdivisions

• Detached homes with large lots
• Town homes with treed and grassy central areas for separation
• Extensive amount of treed common area
• Close-in convenience

The net sales price of the 8 homes that have settled so far in 2009 is 19% below the 2008 results.  That is below the Fairfax County decline of 23% in 2009 compare to 2008 and is obviously good news for Newington Forest homeowners.

Commuting Options to the Pentagon, Washington, DC, Fort Belvoir and all Northern Virginia work centers

• Fairfax County Commuter Bus Route #305 service to Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station
•  operates within Newington Forest.  It is approximately a 30 minute trip.
• There is a Slug-Line at the Sydenstricker Commuter lot. 
• The Lorton VRE  station is within 15 minutes

• Fort Belvoir is about a 15 minute drive.

 Schools

• Depending on location in Newington Forest school age children attend schools located in either the Hayfield or South County Pyramid.  You can locate all school grade levels by entering a specific pproperty address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Pohick Regional Library is approximately 15 minutes away

Shopping

Recreation

• Newington Forest has its' own swimming pool and tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 10 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 10 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 10 minutes

 The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Newington Forest (over 1800 homes) is the largest subdivision in Springfield.  It is located in the southeastern corner of the Springfield area of Fairfax County.  Since construction began in the 70's and was completed in the 80's there are numerous features not to be found in many newer subdivisions

• Detached homes with large lots
• Town homes with treed and grassy central areas for separation
• Extensive amount of treed common area
• Close-in convenience

The net sales price of the 5 homes that have settled so far in 2009 was 12% below the 2008 results.  That is equal to the Fairfax County decline of 12% in 2009 compare to 2008.  That is obviously good news for Newington Forest homeowners.

Commuting Options to the Pentagon, Washington, DC, Fort Belvoir and all Northern Virginia work centers

• Fairfax County Commuter Bus Route #305 service to Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station
•  operates within Newington Forest.  It is approximately a 30 minute trip.
• There is a Slug-Line at the Sydenstricker Commuter lot. 
• The Lorton VRE  station is within 15 minutes

• Fort Belvoir is about a 15 minute drive.

 Schools

• Depending on location in Newington Forest school age children attend schools located in either the Hayfield or South County Pyramid.  You can locate all school grade levels by entering a specific pproperty address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Pohick Regional Library is approximately 15 minutes away

Shopping

Recreation

• Newington Forest has its' own swimming pool and tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 10 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 10 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 10 minutes

 The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Newington Forest (over 1800 homes) is the largest subdivision in Springfield.  It is located in the southeastern corner of the Springfield area of Fairfax County.  Since construction began in the 70's and was completed in the 80's there are numerous features not to be found in many newer subdivisions

• Detached homes with large lots
• Town homes with treed and grassy central areas for separation
• Extensive amount of treed common area
• Close-in convenience

Although only one 2 level town home has settled in 2009 the net sales price was 24% below the Newington Forest 2008 net sales price.  That compares favorably with the Fairfax County decline of 23% in the net sales price when comparing the 2009 results against the 2008 results

Commuting Options to the Pentagon, Washington, DC, Fort Belvoir and all Northern Virginia work centers

• Fairfax County Commuter Bus Route #305 service to Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station
•  operates within Newington Forest.  It is approximately a 30 minute trip.
• There is a Slug-Line at the Sydenstricker Commuter lot. 
• The Lorton VRE  station is within 15 minutes

• Fort Belvoir is about a 15 minute drive.

 Schools

• Depending on location in Newington Forest school age children attend schools located in either the Hayfield or South County Pyramid.  You can locate all school grade levels by entering a specific pproperty address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Pohick Regional Library is approximately 15 minutes away

Shopping

Recreation

• Newington Forest has its' own swimming pool and tot lots
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 10 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 10 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 10 minutes

 The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

 NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Greentree Village is a small town home community (124 homes) very conveniently located off Old Keene Mill Road.  The entrance is just west of Huntsman Boulevard on Fieldmaster. 

• It is sited between Old Keene Mill and Sydenstricker surrounded by trees. 
• The community itself has trees throughout and several treed common areas that resemble a village green. 

Two of the principal features that were standard when the homes were built are

• All brick construction
• Three finished levels

Since there have not been any Greentree Village sales in 2009 a comparison with 2008 results cannot be made

Commuting 

• There are 628 parking spaces at the Rolling Valley Mall Commuter Lot (approximately five minutes from the homes).  All three of the options below operate from Rolling Valley Mall
• FAIRFAX COUNTY COMMUTER BUS #310 to the FRANCONIA-SPRINGFIELD METRO is available 7 DAYS A WEEK on OLD KEENE MILL ROAD.
• The ROLLING VALLEY SLUG LINE has service to all DC locations as well as Crystal City and the Pentagon
• METROBUS ROUTE 18P provides Pentagon service
• It's approximately 20 minutes to Fort Belvoir via Rolling Road

Schools and Library

• Greentree Village homes are in the WEST SPRINGFIELD HIGH SCHOOL PYRAMID 
• POHICK REGIONAL LIBRARY is within a few minutes on Sydenstricker Road

Shopping

• Two neighborhood shopping centers, Rolling Valley Mall and Huntsman Square are within approximately five minutes.

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 15 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 20 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

                                          NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Middle Valley is a community of detached homes sited on 1/4 acre lots.  The homes were built by two highly respected builders, Ryland Homes and NV Homes,  However, the majority of Middle Valley homes were built by Ryland Homes.

The 2009 net sales price of $445,141 is 16% below the 2008 net sales price.  That is slightly higher than the Fairfax County net sales price decline of 12% when comparing 2009 results against 2008 results

Commuting

• The main entrance is on Gambrill Road just about one mile from the Gambrill Park and Ride Lot at the Fairfax County Parkway where you can board 
• Fairfax County Commuter Bus Route 305 for the scheduled 8 minute ride to the Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station and board subway trains to the Pentagon, Washington, DC and all other atations in the National Capital Area
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 20 minutes via Rolling Road
• Springfield Interchange (I-95, I-395 and I-495) is approximately 10 minutes.  See Springfield Commuting Crossroads

Schools and Library

• Elementary age children attend Hunt Valley Elementary
• Middle school children attend Washington Irving Middle School
• High school students attend West Springfield High School
• Pohick Regional Library is within 15 minutes

Shopping

• There are two neighborhood shopping centers within approximately 10 minutes - Huntsman Square Center and Saratoga Shopping Center.

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is approximately 10 minutes.
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 15 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

                                          NO REGISTRATION SPRINGFIELD HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Rhygate is a community of 100 gorgeous townhomes on Rolling Road about one block south of Old Keene Mill Road - it adjoins Springfield Golf and Country Club.

•  These Carr homes were built in the mid 1970's.
•  They are all brick
•  Several have a garage
•  The community is immaculate and very well groomed

Since there have not been any homes sold as yet in 2009 a comparison with 2008 results cannot be made.

Commuting

• Metrobus Routes 18H, 18P and 18S (30 minute express to the Pentagon Metro) can be boarded at Rolling and Old Keene Mill Roads 
• Fairfax Connector Route 310 to the Franconia-Springfield Metrorail Station (a 20 minute ride) is available at Old Keene Mill and Rolling Roads
• Slug Lines are also available at Old Keene Mill and Rolling Roads
• The Fairfax County Parkway is less than 10 minutes away south on Rolling Road
• It's also less than 20 minutes to Fort Belvoir via Rolling Road
• The Springfield Interchange (I-95, I-395 and I-495) are within 15 minutes via Old Keene Mill Road

Schools and Library

• West Springfield Elementary is less than 10 minutes
• Washington Irving Middle School is less than 10 minutes
• West Springfield High School is less than 10 minutes
• Pohick Regional Library is less than 10 mimutes

Shopping

• Cardinal Plaza (Giant) and Old Keene Mill Shopping Center (Whole Foods) are less than 5 minutes away at Old Keene Mill and Rolling Roads

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 10 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park is next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 15 minutes.
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 20 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.

Lake Ridge is one of the ten largest subdivisions in the United States.  It has both the resources and reputation that enable it to attract some of the very best association managemant people around.  The benefit to Lake Ridge property owners is the fact that the community always has its' "best foot forward".  That helps maintaintain property values.

Covenants is one of the very active departments in the Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association.  They regularly inspect the exterior of homes and the property to assure compliance with the association's covenants.

Deteriorated rake boards are one of the most common items found during their inspections.  As Spring approaches many homeowners will be repainting their homes.  I developed this photo to remind property owners of the need to repaint rake boards when the rest of the home is painted.

There are other reasons why Lake Ridge is popular with both military and civilian homeowners

• Schools (Reason #1)
• Recreation (Reason #2)
• Commuting (Reason #3)
• Shopping (Reason #4)

If you want the "straight scoop" on Lake Ridge you should

• Ask 26 year residents who are also
• Full time real estate brokers

We are Lake Ridge residents and have 33 years full time experience in the Lake Ridge area. If a Lake Ridge home is in your future we invite you to try our

NO REGISTRATION LAKE RIDGE HOME FINDER

and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

This is the fourth in an ongoing series to highlight the reasons Lake Ridge is one of the most popular communities in Northern Virginia aside from its' ease of commuting to Northern Virginia military bases, Washington, DC and all National Capital Area business centers

Lake Ridge was developed over the period 1972 to 1999.  From the very beginning the need for shopping centers was an integral part of the overall plan. Three shopping centers were opened as the subdivision progressed 

The three centers all include a

• Supermarket
• Bank
• Service Station
• Free standing pharmacy or pharmacy in a supermarket
• Cleaners
• Other retail stores and assorted restaurants

1.  Tacketts Mill located at the entrance to Lake Ridge was the first of the three centers.  In addition to the normal complement of retail stores it includes commercial office space.  It's here you'll find McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts and Baskin Robbins

2.  Lake Ridge Commons at Old Bridge Road and Hedges Run Drive is about midway through Lake Ridge.  It has our one and only Starbucks

3.  Festival at Old Bridge is also on Old Bridge Road near the western end of Lake Ridge at Smoketown Road.  It has the Lake Ridge US Post Office Annex

OTHER REASONS FOR CONSIDERING LAKE RIDGE

• SCHOOLS (Reason #1)
• RECREATION (Reason #2)
• COMMUTING (Reason #3)

 The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Lake Ridge area.  If a Lake Ridge home is in your future we invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area. 

Ease of commuting is one of the primary considerations for most people when buying a home.  Lake Ridge provides commuting options that are among the best in Northern Virginia.

EXPRESS BUS SERVICE to the Pentagon and Washington, DC is available within Lake Ridge and at the entrance to Lake Ridge in the VDOT Commuter Lot

CARPOOLS usually meet at the VDOT Commuter Lot at the entrance to Lake Ridge - see Omnimatch for more specific details 

SLUGGING   (some erroneously call it hitching a ride which it is) is a result of the need to use HOV lanes on the I-95 as much as possible.  Commuters form a line at a designated Slug Stop in Lake Ridge  it is the VDOT Commuter at the Lake Ridge entrance.  For example, a driver will pull up headed for the Pentagon, but needs one more passenger to qualify for HOV-3.  The first person in line going to the Pentagon will join the others in the car and away they go.  It's free commuting for the slugger and gives the driver availability to HOV lanes on I-95 - win win!!

RAILROAD  The Virginia Railway Express Woodbridge Station with rail service to Springfield, Crystal City and Union Station in Washington, DC is approximately a 20 minute drive from Lake Ridge in the morning rush hour.  At Springfield you can switch to Metrorail that gives you access to the entire National Capital Area subway system.

LOCAL BUS SERVICE  Local buses run regulary throughout the Greater Woodbridge area as well as other areas of Prince William County.  Lake Ridge is one of the communities served by Omnilink

Also see

• SCHOOLS (REASON #1)
• RECREATION (REASON #2)

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Woodbridge area.  If a Lake Ridge home is in your future we invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

This is the second in an ongoing series to highlight the reasons Lake Ridge is one of the most popular communities in Northern Virginia aside from its' ease of commuting to Northern Virginia military bases, Washington, DC and all National Capital Area business centers

The Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association sponsors numerous events throughout the year to provide recreational activities for residents of all ages and interest. Each month the association's newsletters "Lake Ridge Today" highlights the events planned for the month - yes, the newsletter arrives prior to the beginning of the month or view the community calendar at Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation

Lake Ridge has

• Three community centers available for rent by clubs and for private events
• 5 pools
• 8 tennis courts
• 18 tot lots
• 12 basketball courts
• Hooes Run boat ramp
• Old Bridge softball field

Other recreational venues easily accessible from Lake Ridge are

• Lake Ridge Park and Marina with boat launch to the Occoquan Reservoir, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf and picnic facilities is in Lake Ridge
• Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center with year round pool, exercise facilities, racquetball courts and meeting room is approximately 10 minutes
• Leesylvania State Park with boat launch to the Potomac, picnic facilities and educational programs is approximately 30 minutes
• Prince William Forest Park with 37 mikes of hiking trails, 21 miles of bicycle accessible roads, cabin and tent camping is approximately 30 minutes
• There is a bicycle and jogging path along the Prince William Parkway
• Occoquan Regional Park with boat launch to the Occoquan River, summer boat storage,ball fields and picnic areas is approximately 15 minutes
• Old Hickory Golf Club is approximately 10 minutes
• Potomac Nationals Baseball (Carolina League 2008 Champions) at Pfitzner Stadium - less than 10 minutes

We have lived in Lake Ridge for 26 years and the Kruschka Team has 33 years full time real estate experience in the Woodbridge area.  If a Lake Ridge home purchase is in your future we invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

One of the unique features about Lake Ridge is that

• All schools attended by Lake Ridge children are in Lake Ridge. 
• No elementary school is more than 5 or 6 minutes from the student's home

Visit the school's web sites

Antietam Elementary

Lake Ridge Elementary

Old Bridge Elementary

Rockledge Elementary

Springwoods Elementary

Lake Ridge Middle

Woodbridge Senior High School

Having lived in Lake Ridge since 1982 we can attest to the positive factors about the Prince William County Public Schools.  Our son went through the system.  Also, we have numerous clients (military and civilian) who decided on a Lake Ridge home purchase because of the quality of the schools and the fact that children attend school in their subdivision.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Woodbridge area.  If a home in Lake Ridge or Woodbridge is in your future we invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Wills and VanMetre started construction on Saratoga in mid-1972.  Many of the community features they offered are still available today in most planned communities.  The one item that is not available, however, in homes close-in are large lots approximately 1/4 acre.

The 2009 average net sales price for detached homes in Saratoga is 11% below the same period in 2009.  The average decline for the same period in all of Fairfax County is 12%.  Saratoga fared slightly better and is on the high side of the average.

Commuting

• Fairfax County Connector Route 304 service to the Franconia-Springfield   Metrorail Station for commuting to the Pentagon, Alexandria, Washington, DC and all National Capital Area wotk centers that can be accessed by Metrorail
• Approximately 15 minutes to Fort Belvoir
• Less than 10 minutes to the Fairfax County Parkway for east-west cross county travel

Schools

• Saratoga is in the Lee High School Pyramid  You can locate schools for a specific address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Pohick Regional  Library is approximately 15 minutes from Saratoga
• Lorton Library is also approximately 15 minutes from Saratoga 

Shopping

• Although there are other shopping centers within 15 minutes Saratoga Center is conveniently located in the community

Recreation

• Saratoga has its' own pool centrally located in the community
• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is within 20 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 10 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 10 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 15 minutes

Additionally, it is one of the few subdivisions that has large ramblers as well as colonial, split level homes and both contemporary and traditional style town homes.  Wills and VanMetre Saratoga Square has lovely rental units.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area.  We invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Since the sun was out, the temperature was up and it was the first day of Spring, my husband and I decided to take a walk in the woods behind our home and down the path to the Occoquan Reservoir.

As you can see, the ground is covered with leaves and the wild ground cover has yet to sprout and turn green.  We spotted a splash of yellow about 30 feet off the path - investigation revealed a small clump of daffodils blomming happily in the midst of all that barren landscape.  Were a few bulbs planted there by children or were they dropped by a deer?  Regardless, it was an encouraging sight.  Winter has lost its' grip.

We have lived in Lake Ridge for 26 years and love the 1,200 acres of wooded common ground that winds through our community and along the shores of the Occoquan Reservoir.

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Prince William County area.  If a Lake Ridge home is in your future we invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

West Springfield Village is located on Rolling Road approximately halfway between Old Keene Mill Road and the Fairfax County Parkway. The 426 homes in the subdivision are one of the original Springfield communities built by Richmarr in the period between 1960 and 1980.

There have not been any settled sales in West Springfield Village as yet in 2009

Commuting

• It is about a 15 minute drive to the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station.  Proximity to the Franconia-Springfiled Metro makes it an ideal location for commuting to the Pentagon, Washington, DC and all National Capital Area work centers
• Fairfax County Commuter Bus #310  to the Franconia-Springfield Metro is available 7 DAYS A WEEK on Old Keene Mill Road at Rolling Road 
• The Cardinal Plaza Slug Line (on Old Keene Mill Road just east of Rolling Road) has service to all DC locations and the Pentagon
• Metrobus Route 18H provides Pentagon service on Rolling Road at Greely Boulevard - the trip is approximately 25 minutes
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 15 minutes via Rolling Road to US1

Schools and Library

• Children are in the West Springfield High School Pyramid.  You can locate the schools for a specific address at Fairfax County Public School Locator 
• Approximately 10 minutes from the Pohick Regional Library

Shopping

• Two neighborhood shopping centers, Old Keene Mill Center and Cardinal Forest Plaza are approximately 5 minutes from West Springfield Village at the intersection of Old Keene Mill and Rolling Roads - one has Whole Foods and the other has Giant Foods

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 15 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 15 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 15 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 15 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 15 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 15 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 15 minutes

There are two Springfield town home communities within 5 minutes that enjoy the same commuting, school and community features as West Springfield Village - they are

•  CHARLESTOWN and
•  RHYGATE 

The Kruschka Team has 33 years full time experience in the Springfield area. We invite you to try our

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and then contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569.  Put our  record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Lake Forest (aka Lakewood Hills) is an extremely convenient Springfield location just off the Fairfax County Parkway between Hooes Road and Huntsman Boulevard.

Since no Lake Forest homes have sold as yet this year a comparison with 2008 results cannot be made.  However, if the 2 homes on the market sell with the same ratios as the 2008 sales the 9% list price decline over 2008 will be better than the current average Fairfax County net sales price 12% decline in 2009 when compared to 2008

Commuting

• The Gambrill Road Park and Ride Lot is less than 10 minutes away at the Gambrill Road exit on the Fairfax County Parkway.  You can board Fairfax County Connector Route 305 to the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station for your trip to the Pentagon, Alexandria, Washington, DC or any other point in the Metrorail system
• Slug Lines form at the Sydenstricker commuter lot - the link will show you its' location - it is less than 10 minutes from Lake Forest.  Riders are sought for the Pentagon and Rosslyn
• Fort Belvoir is approximately 30 minues via the Fairfax County Parkway and Rolling Road or Pohick Road

 Schools and Library

• The subdivision is in the West Springfield High School Pyramid You can locate the schools for a specific address at Fairfax County Public School Locator
• Pohick Regional Library is no more than 15 minutes from the subdivision.

Shopping

•  Huntsman Square Shopping Center is only minutes away at Huntsman Boulevard on the Fairfax County Parkway

Recreation

• Audrey Moore Rec Center in Wakefield Park with its year round pool  and gymnasium plus a myriad of other sports and activities is approximately 20 minutes
• Wakefield Skate Park is also in Wakefield Park next to the Audrey Moore Rec Center
• South Run Rec Center with year round pool, exercise facilities and other activities is within approximately 5 minutes. It has a connecting trail to Burke Lake Park
• Burke Lake Park with golf course, camping, picnic areas, small boat rental, fishing, carousel, miniature train and ice cream parlor is approximately 10 mimutes
• Lake Accotink Park with small boat rental, fishing and picnic facilities is within 20 minutes.
• Pohick Bay Golf Course - an 18-hole public course is approximately 20 minutes
• Pohick Bay Park with boat launch to the Potomac River, camping and picnic facilities is approximately 20 minutes
• Laurel Hill Golf Course - 18-hole public is approximately 10 minutes