This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Janice Chen, Esq., and Victoria Khaydar, Esq., practicing attorneys at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Falls Church, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact us for an appointment.
The government likes to release unpopular items on Friday afternoons, and, when the government has something really unpopular to say, the Friday afternoon before a holiday weekend is considered ideal. Last Friday, before the Memorial Day weekend, USCIS published a truly incredible policy reversal – PM 602-0199 (the “May 21 Memo”), which purports to upend the ability of most foreigners to apply for green cards from within the United States. DHS and USCIS’s respective public messaging on the memorandum is clear but wrong. The memorandum was more nuanced, but still, in our view, deeply misleading. The purpose of this advertorial is to explain what happened, why it matters, and offer some predictions about how this unforced error is going to be resolved.
First, here’s what DHS and USCIS said about their own memo.
What do these press releases mean? They mean to highlight the following distinction: some people apply for a green card from inside the United States, at USCIS field offices; others apply for a green card from outside the United States, at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad. Per both press releases, nearly everyone who applies from inside the U.S. is ineligible to become a lawful permanent resident. Almost everyone who applies for a green card should do so via U.S. Embassies and consulates abroad.
That might seem reasonable, and, ex ante, it could be, if our laws and institutions were set up properly. There are, unfortunately, a few problems with this new policy position, both practical and legal. (more…)
Address:6216 28th Street N Neighborhood: Berkshire Oakwood Type: 4 BR, 4 BA single-family detached – 2900 sq. ft. Open House: Sunday, May 31st from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Listed: $1,425,000
Noteworthy: Extensively Renovated and Reimagined, Seamlessly Blending New and Old
Stunning remodel in Arlington’s sought-after Berkshire Oakwood! Thoughtfully reimagined from top to bottom, this 1948 Cape is like nothing you’ve seen before.
The spacious main level living room features solid Oak hardwoods, a cozy gas fireplace with marble threshold, and natural light from windows on two sides. Just beyond, a showstopping 2023 kitchen renovation offers 42″ white cabinetry, Quartz countertops, all new stainless steel appliances, custom range hood, and new hardwoods throughout. A sun-soaked eat-in nook with built-in bench opens to the jaw-dropping screened porch – added in 2025 with Trex decking, a vaulted tongue and groove ceiling, in-ceiling heaters, and room for both dining and lounging.
The main level bedroom wing offers two generously sized bedrooms and a fully renovated full bath with marble basketweave tile, glass-enclosed shower, dual shower heads, and cheerful wallpaper. Upstairs, two full suites including a true ensuite primary with massive walk-in closet and a luxurious owner’s bath featuring dual sinks, Quartz surround, and a triple-head glass-enclosed shower. A fully finished lower level rec room with full bath is perfect for play, movies, or guests.
Outside, enjoy a new Bluestone patio, brand new fence, and a flat, lushly landscaped yard with year-round privacy. All of this just blocks from Nottingham Elementary in one of North Arlington’s most beloved communities.
EcoAction Arlington, through the Tree Planting Program, offers Arlington residents the chance to receive free native trees to help grow our urban canopy. Tree Stewards are available to help you choose the best tree for your property.
If you live in a neighborhood other than the 13 listed under the Tree Canopy Equity Program and are a property owner, including those of single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and places of worship, you may apply for a free native tree to be planted on your property. Before applying, please review ‘Our Process’ on our website and take a look at the Tree Planting Program Species List for a list and description of available trees for the Fall 2026 Tree Planting Cycle.
National IQ is designed to connect industry, startups, academia and government around shared challenges tied to national competitiveness and emerging technology.
Arlington-based CLEATUS raised $4 million in a seed funding round. The AI-powered platform automates government contracting workflows, helping small businesses find, manage and win contracts.
Arlington-based GenLogs closed a $60 million Series B funding round earlier this year to grow its AI-driven platform for tracking truck movements nationwide.
Arlington’s startup ecosystem is off to a strong start in 2026, with a wave of new funding, growing innovation spaces and expanding tech companies reinforcing the area’s role in next-generation and national security-focused industries.
From early-stage startups to more established companies, the activity points to a broad and active ecosystem, one increasingly shaped by applied artificial intelligence and “dual-use” technologies with both commercial and government applications.
Big raises highlight AI-driven innovation
Several Arlington-based startups have already landed significant funding this year, led by two of the region’s largest recent deals.
Maritime intelligence company Quartermaster raised a $43 million Series A to expand its “SmartMast” system, which equips ships with sensors and AI-powered analytics to create real-time visibility across global waterways. The company describes the platform as a distributed sensing network designed to improve maritime awareness for commercial operators and governments alike.
Meanwhile, freight intelligence firm GenLogs closed a $60 million Series B earlier this year to grow its AI-driven platform for tracking truck movements nationwide. Using a combination of roadside sensors, satellite data and analytics, the Arlington-based startup aims to reduce fraud and improve efficiency across the logistics industry.
Alongside these larger raises, smaller seed and Series A rounds, including companies like CLEATUS and BriefCatch, continue to drive activity locally. The sectors may differ, but the throughline is similar: companies using advanced technology to tackle practical, real-world problems.
New innovation spaces bring ecosystem together
The momentum isn’t just showing up in funding. It is also visible in new spaces and programming designed to bring people together.
In April, Arlington hosted the kickoff of DMV Deep Tech Week, a region-wide series of events connecting founders, investors and public-sector leaders working across emerging technologies. The first day’s activities took place at JBG Smith’s new Concorde Conference Center in National Landing, a purpose-built venue for convening the innovation community.
Events like these reflect a broader push to build density in the ecosystem by bringing companies, capital and institutions together.
That same idea is behind the launch of National Innovation Quarter (National IQ) earlier this year. Announced in February, the new district spans Arlington and Alexandria and is designed to connect industry, startups, academia and government around shared challenges tied to national competitiveness and emerging technology.
Backed by partners including Amazon, Virginia Tech and Arlington Economic Development, National IQ will host accelerators, investor summits and other programs aimed at helping companies scale.
Additional spaces are also coming online. The Virtus Innovation Hub opened this spring in National Landing, adding another place for startups, investors and ecosystem partners to gather and collaborate.
Corporate expansion reinforces Arlington’s appeal
It’s not just startups driving activity, more established companies are continuing to grow their presence in Arlington, often for the same reasons.
Scale AI, for example, recently opened a significantly larger office in National Landing, leasing about 22,000 square feet with capacity for roughly 100 employees. The move reflects the company’s interest in closer collaboration with federal and defense partners, as well as access to the region’s talent pool.
And just last week, Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) announced a headquarters expansion in Ballston, a $19 million investment expected to create 210 jobs. The company similarly pointed to access to technical talent and proximity to customers as key factors.
A connected, growing ecosystem
Taken together, the activity shows an ecosystem that continues to build on itself.
Startups are finding early support, while growth-stage companies are scaling. At the same time, new venues, programs and partnerships are making it easier for companies to connect with customers, investors and each other.
While much of the activity is rooted in AI, its applications span logistics, data analytics and government contracting, a reminder that Arlington’s innovation economy isn’t tied to a single factor.
With continued investment, more places to collaborate and a steady flow of new companies, Arlington is becoming a place where technology is both built and applied to the real-world.
Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose prices have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!
Please note: The properties featured here may be listed with other brokerages– but that doesn’t limit your options. Arlington Realty, Inc. is ready to represent you, arrange showings, analyze value, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We understand the neighborhoods, pricing trends and market timing — and we usethat knowledge to your advantage.
As of May 25, there are 180 detached homes, 45 townhouses and 251 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 37 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:
Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.
This regularly scheduled 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[email protected].
Question: How does home value appreciation vary in Arlington by property type?
Answer: The Arlington VA housing market has appreciated by an average price of 49% and a median price of 39% over a ten-year period, but that appreciation is not evenly distributed across all property types.
Detached Homes Appreciate Over 60%
Those who spend the most on a home benefit from the highest appreciation rates, with detached home appreciation of 60%+ over the course of a decade, and new detached homes appreciating the most of any property type, at 65%.
Condos Appreciate 1-2% Annually
The worst performing category over ten years in Arlington is the one-bedroom condo, with appreciation close to 1% annually and just 15% over ten years. Two-bedroom condos perform moderately better, with an average annual appreciation closer to 2% at 28% over ten years.
Townhouses are the Goldilocks Property Type
More expensive than condos and less expensive than detached homes, townhouse/semi-detached properties fall right in the middle of cost and ten-year rate of appreciation, coming in at 40% over ten years. (more…)
In Stafford, Embrey Mill is known for its active, connected, and outdoors-focused way of life. Since its debut, the community has grown into one of the area’s most recognizable master-planned neighborhoods, defined by its parks, trails, gathering spaces, and strong sense of community. That lifestyle continues to evolve.
At Cascades at Embrey Mill, Brookfield Residential offers a fresh perspective on active adult living within the established community—one that feels more modern, more social, and more in step with how people want to live today. Condominiums start at $399,990 and offer main-level living—with your kitchen, living, dining, and primary suite all on one floor—plus private elevators, all in the Cascades neighborhood.
Equally important, the homes are designed for low-maintenance living, with lawn care, snow removal, and exterior upkeep all included, so homeowners can spend less time managing a home and more time enjoying their day.
More Ways to Stay Active. More Ways to Connect. Life here isn’t about slowing down. It’s about having more ways to spend your time.
Homeowners can start the morning with a pickleball match or a walk along nearby trails, meet friends for coffee, or spend the afternoon enjoying the clubhouse and community spaces. With a full calendar of clubs, gatherings, and social events, there’s always something happening.
And because Cascades is part of the larger Embrey Mill community, that experience extends even further, with access to parks, pools, dining, and neighborhood destinations just moments from home.
Homes Designed for the Way You Live Now At the center of it all are modern 55+ active adult condominiums with private elevators, thoughtfully designed for the way people want to live today.
Brookfield Residential’s thoughtfully designed homes offer main-level living with contemporary finishes and open layouts that support both comfort and flexibility. Private elevators, outdoor living spaces, and attached garages make everyday living easier—whether hosting friends or enjoying a quiet day at home. (more…)
LadyBug Academy will officially open its newest location, LadyBug Academy Arlington, on June 1st, 2026, at 1915 N Uhle Street, Arlington, VA. (Ladybug Academy)
An Open House for the community is scheduled for May 30th, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Families and community members will have the opportunity to tour the facility, meet staff, and learn more about the programs offered at the new location. (Ladybug Academy)
The event will include family activities such as a bubble party, face painting, balloon twisting, and a petting zoo.
LadyBug Academy provides early childhood education programs focused on creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. The school’s curriculum emphasizes language, literacy, math, science, social development, and hands-on learning experiences led by experienced educators. (Ladybug Academy)
The Arlington location will offer priority enrollment to Arlington County employees.
Welcome to Kami’s Korner where we’ll take a deep dive into Arlington’s condominium market by focusing on what’s coming next. From emerging developments to shifting trends, this space will spotlight the opportunities and insights shaping the future of condo living in Arlington.
Many of you have asked about best practices when it comes to buying a new condominium. Some of us only want new and are willing to pay a premium for the best in current design. There are several recommendations and insights here that will help you get what you want.
First decide what type of condominium you need… size, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, parking needs, or separate office, followed by a list of wants such as level of building service, amenities on-site, space for dining for six, balcony, open floor plan, and natural light. (Here she goes again.) Not to be sexist about it, but females generally are better shoppers and come with a preconceived set of non-negotiables.
Identify the areas you would consider living, such as Arlington or Old Town… but not wanting to go as far as Tysons, Reston, or DC. People don’t buy condominiums in places they aren’t familiar with or already spend time in, unless relocating entirely. Many upcoming communities put up signage and a website first which makes early interest hyperlocal. Register as a VIP on the website early and you will get regular communication, time to consider the offering, and learn when pre-sale will begin.
Once open, come early in pre-sale. You’ll get the pick of the litter. This is particularly important if you want something larger and are interested in the best views. Prospects are smart and pick the best floorplans first. If you have some idea of your ideal size and price point it makes good use of everyone’s time. Once you make a selection, expect to leave a 10% deposit as this is pretty standard in the industry. The developer generally has their own contract and it’s written much in their favor but not unreasonably so. Pricing this early is usually not negotiable… the price is the price. But you can purchase with some confidence since all buyers are getting the same terms and the developer has a shared interest in protecting values through delivery while sales are ongoing.
You do not need to be fully qualified for financing to come out and look but it’s wise to have some idea of what you can afford. Most builders give incentives for paying cash or using their title company and lenders. Often your contract might even offer a short financing contingency in exchange for considering them.
Once firmly under contract, a buyer might have 12- 18 months to prepare for the move. How blissful. This is one of the best parts of buying early in pre-sale. Moving is daunting, especially if you have been in your current homes for 30 years and the thought of moving seems excruciating. Decide what to take, sell/donate, and hire a proper interior designer to space plan and create a unique home that reflects your tastes. All with the time to do it properly.
Something to note. Finishes have gotten more high end, brands carry weight, and there is less customization offered these days. Gone are the days of going to a design center. If you know you are getting a Sub Zero refrigerator included you probably won’t ask if there are other options available. (more…)
Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose prices have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!
Please note: The properties featured here may be listed with other brokerages– but that doesn’t limit your options. Arlington Realty, Inc. is ready to represent you, arrange showings, analyze value, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We understand the neighborhoods, pricing trends and market timing — and we usethat knowledge to your advantage.
As of May 18, there are 175 detached homes, 41 townhouses and 249 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 50 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:
Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.
When Eddie Kaufholz and his family moved to Arlington nearly five years ago, they were not thinking about starting a business. They wanted to live in a place that was diverse, interesting and full of opportunity, with a school system they could rely on. Arlington fit.
In the years that followed, working out of a home office off Columbia Pike, he consulted with organizations across Northern Virginia and around the country: nonprofits, advocacy groups, mid-sized companies, agencies of various sizes. The work itself was good. But somewhere across all those projects, he started to notice a pattern.
”The agency model has gotten really bloated,” Kaufholz says. ”Layers, handoffs, middle management. The senior people who pitch the work often disappear once it starts. The idea with PILLAR was to strip all of that down; keep senior people on the work, approach each client with humility and care, do world-class strategy and execution, and pass the efficiency back to the client instead of absorbing it as agency margin.”
That thinking, slowly, became PILLAR, the Arlington-headquartered creative, communications and marketing agency Kaufholz founded.
PILLAR, he says, is built on an old idea. ”An idea that has always been possible but rarely practiced: that an agency should be structured to serve the work itself.” The team that delivers the work is assembled around the specific needs of each client and only stays as long as the work calls for them.
”The senior strategist on your kick-off call is the senior strategist writing your messaging,” Kaufholz says. ”Every person on a project is there because the work specifically calls for them.”
PILLAR’s recent work has spanned human rights, executive leadership, higher education, advocacy and direct-to-consumer ecommerce. The roster has included national nonprofits, a national multimillion-dollar direct-to-consumer brand and a number of institutions navigating significant moments of strategic change. The model is built to scale up to be the agency of record for a national brand, or to scale down to design a logo for a neighborhood nonprofit. PILLAR takes equal pride and care in both.
What Kaufholz did not understand when he started, he said, was how much the County itself would matter in making any of it possible. (more…)
This regularly scheduled 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[email protected].
Thank you to all who have served and to the families who have sacrificed or lost loved ones for our freedom. I hope you and yours have a special Memorial Day weekend with friends and family to celebrate our country and those we’ve lost defending it.
The Eli Residential Group donates annually to Arlington-based TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) in honor of Memorial Day. Since 1994, TAPS has provided comfort and hope 24/7 to those grieving a death in the military or veteran community, through a national peer support network and connection to grief resources, all at no cost to surviving families and loved ones.
If you are interested in donating to a great charity this Memorial Day, TAPS is a four-star rated charity on Charity Navigator with 87.5% of funds raised going towards program expenses.
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.
