
This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Eli and his team in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach him directly at Eli@
Eli and his team believe that your real estate needs should be managed by advisors, not salespeople. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service.
Merry Christmas and Hanukkah Eve! I’m grateful for another year with the opportunity to connect with you each week about real estate. The ARLnow community is wonderful and unique — thank you to Scott and the ARLnow team for building and supporting a platform that is a true community benefit.
Every year I like to reflect on what I’m most grateful for about living and working in Arlington. I also love to hear from you on the same. Here’s my list:
Diversity of Great Food
Arlington itself offers wonderfully diverse cuisines and when you add neighboring jurisdictions of Washington, D.C., Annandale, Alexandria, and Falls Church to the mix we have access to delicious international cuisine from every corner of the world within 20-30 minutes.
Passionate Neighbors
While we lack agreement on topics like Missing Middle, we do not lack passion. I appreciate how passionate both sides of the Missing Middle policy are and trust that in the long run, that passion will result in a great next generation housing policy for Arlington.
Airports
I don’t travel often, but when I do I’m grateful for our nearby national and international airports that are easily accessible by multiple modes of public and private transportation.
Parks and Recreation
No matter where you live in Arlington, you have access to an incredible network of trails, parks, and rec centers for endless outdoor enjoyment that costs nothing. Arlington’s trails and parks have given me so much joy over the years with family and friends.
Schools
Being an educator has become extraordinarily difficult and complex and I’m grateful for all the hardworking teachers, staff, and administrators who work hard, oftentimes thankless, hours keeping the Arlington Public Schools among the best in the country for our kids.
Jobs and Small Businesses
The robust and diverse job market in Arlington keeps unemployment low and the economy thriving. I’m especially thankful for all the entrepreneurs and risk-takers who fill every nook and cranny of Arlington with small businesses despite the daily challenges.
The ERG Team
I get to work with an amazingly talented and uplifting team:
- Tonya Nelson (Director of Everything): Where would I be without Tonya? She allows me to be a father, husband, and friend and keeps the ship straight every day of the week. Thanks and gratitude will never be enough.
- Val Connolly (Agent): We’ve worked as colleagues and partners for a decade and she’s now building a great business around her new home in Loudoun County.
- Jean Ropp (Agent): Amazing mother of two beautiful little boys and still works her tail off for clients with endless smiles and positivity.
- Carolanne Korolowicz (Agent): A new mother and 6t generation Arlingtonian, I learn something interesting from her about Arlington and its history every time we talk.
- Brian Wyatt (Retired): Brian and I got to spend seven years working together from the very earliest days of ERG. It was a great journey together, enjoy retirement!

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].
If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.
Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.
Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C Arlington VA 22203. (703) 390-9460.