Author: Val Connolly

Val Connolly is a Realtor with over 20 years of experience in the housing industry, including more than a decade managing properties across the DMV. For the past 7 years, she’s been part of the Eli Residential Group, where she’s known for being approachable, responsive, and genuinely committed to her clients’ goals. Val is fluent in Spanish and enjoys working with a diverse range of buyers and sellers. She believes real estate is as much about people as it is about properties—and she’s proud to guide her clients through one of life’s biggest transitions with honesty, care, and a positive, can-do attitude.

Ask Val: Move-in ready vs. make it your own

By Val Connolly

This recurring Real Estate feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Val Connolly

When it comes to buying in Arlington, the options are exciting, and a little overwhelming! Do you picture yourself in a fully updated home, where modern kitchens, bathrooms, fixtures, and even new construction mean you can move in tomorrow with zero hassle? Or does a home with great potential catch your eye, where a fresh coat of paint, a new kitchen, updated flooring, or a few new fixtures lets you put your own stamp on the space while living in it?

Of course, each option comes with different costs. Move-in ready or newly built homes often carry a higher price tag upfront, but they save you time, effort, and renovation expenses later. Homes that need a little TLC may require more work (and patience), but they can be more affordable initially and offer opportunities to build equity through your updates.

From a realtor’s perspective, it’s all about balancing convenience, cost, and long-term value. Updated or new homes give you immediate comfort and less planning, while homes that need minor updates allow you to personalize, increase equity over time, and make your dream home truly yours.

Arlington’s neighborhoods offer the perfect mix of classic charm and modern upgrades, so whichever route you choose, you’re investing in a beautiful, vibrant community.

Which one would you go for—move-in ready or a home you can shape along the way?
Here are some active listings to explore both options!

5017 17th St N
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THIS: Fully Updated & Ready to Move In (more…)

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Arlington’s best homes for dog lovers

By Val Connolly

This recurring Real Estate feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Val Connolly

Arlington’s Best Homes for Dog Lovers

If you’re anything like me, your dog isn’t just a pet, they’re family. From morning walks to planning weekend outings, our pets shape so much of our daily lives, including where we choose to live. It’s no wonder a Realtor.com survey found that more than 70% of pet owners would pass on a home if it didn’t fit their pet’s needs. I see it all the time—many of my clients admit they’re really house-hunting “for the dog.”

What to Look For in a Dog-Friendly Home

When searching for the perfect Arlington spot with your dog in mind, keep these must-haves at the top of your list:

  • Proximity to dog parks and trails—daily walks are non-negotiable
  • Condo pet policies—size, breed, and number limits can vary widely
  • Outdoor space like balconies, patios, or shared dog runs
  • Durable finishes that can stand up to muddy paws and wagging tails

Here are some of my favorite Arlington condos that welcome dogs:

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A few local favorite dog parks:

  • Shirlington Dog Park – a massive community favorite along the creek
  • James Hunter Dog Park (Clarendon) – perfect for condo dwellers nearby
  • Glencarlyn Park – shady trails with water access
  • Towers Park – complete with separate areas for large and small dogs
  • Fort Barnard & Utah Park – cozy neighborhood gems

Homes for sale near dog parks:

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Give Back: Support Local Rescues

Living in a dog-friendly community is also about giving back. Arlington is fortunate to have excellent rescue organizations, including:

If you’ve been thinking about adding a pet to your family—or simply want to help—consider adopting, fostering, volunteering, or donating. Every effort makes a difference and helps another pup find their forever home.

Arlington offers plenty of options for dog owners, from pet-friendly condos to neighborhoods with easy access to parks and trails. If you’re considering a move and want to explore the best homes for you and your pup, I’d be glad to help. Feel free to reach out to Val Connolly anytime.

Why first-time buyers should be looking at Arlington condos right now

By Val Connolly

This recurring Real Estate feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Val Connolly

If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Arlington, now’s a great time to look at condos. The condo market is a little softer right now, which means prices are more affordable and that’s an opportunity to get in before it heats back up.

Most condos are turn-key, meaning you can move right in without spending extra on renovations. They’re virtually maintenance-free (no mowing lawns or fixing roofs), in walkable neighborhoods with great restaurants, coffee shops, and easy Metro access, and they often come with perks like gyms, pools, or parking. Monthly fees usually cover water, trash, and building upkeep, so expenses stay predictable.

Many Arlington condos perfect for first-time buyers are priced around $450,000-$500,000. With today’s interest rates, that could mean a monthly payment (including condo fee, taxes, and insurance) in the $2,700-$3,200 range, often comparable to renting a similar space.

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My top condo picks in Arlington
Here are some active listings that I think are great buys right now for first-time homeowners:

If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, this is the moment to explore your options. I’m happy to walk you through the process, explain condo fees, and help you find the perfect turn-key place to call home. If you have any questions about these listings or want to explore buying or selling in Arlington, feel free to reach out to Val Connolly.

Most and least expensive homes sold in Arlington (July 2025)

By Val Connolly

This recurring Most and Least Expensive Home feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Val Connolly.

Curious about Arlington’s priciest and most affordable single-family home sales this month?

From stunning luxury new builds to great budget-friendly finds, here’s a breakdown of the highest and lowest sales in July (2025).

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Most expensive single-family homes sold

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Least expensive single-family homes sold

*Minimum home value of $200,000 set to exclude certain land sales, retirement condos, properties with expiring ground leases, etc.

If you have any questions about these listings or want to explore buying or selling in Arlington, feel free to reach out to Val Connolly.

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.

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