Sponsored

Legal Insider: Settling federal employee cases at the MSPB

By John V. Berry

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

Our lawyers represent and defend federal employees in appeals pending before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). While litigation through the MSPB hearing process is one potential avenue, many cases are resolved more efficiently through settlement, which is a faster, more cost-effective resolution in such cases. Federal employees have several options for settling cases at the MSPB, each with its own structure. Settlements at the MSPB frequently involve disciplinary cases. 

Settlement Options at the MSPB

Settlements at the MSPB typically arise in the context of appeals filed by federal employees challenging adverse actions taken by their employing agencies. These actions may include removals, suspensions over 14 days, demotions, or other personnel decisions. A successful settlement requires mutual agreement between the employee and the Agency. The settlement process cannot proceed without cooperation on both sides. For this reason, it is key to explore settlement options early in the litigation process.

The available settlement options at the MSPB include: (1) Informal Mediation with Agency Counsel; (2) the Mediation Appeals Program; (3) the Settlement Judge Program and (4) the MSPB Settlement Program.

  1. Informal Mediation with Agency Counsel– This is often the quickest method of attempting to settle a case. Typically, at the start of an MSPB case, counsel for both parties may engage in informal discussions to exchange settlement proposals. In many cases, early informal negotiations and communications can lead to favorable outcomes.
  2. Mediation Appeals Program– This occurs in a more formal setting and is typically conducted in person. A mediator from the MSPB, who serves as a neutral third party, is assigned to encourage and facilitate settlement. This seems to be the more common way of attempting to settle MSPB cases these days.
  3. Settlement Judge Program– An administrative judge or other mediator, who is not assigned to adjudicate the case, is appointed to assist the parties in resolving the matter. In an attempt to settle such cases, settlement judges typically conduct settlement discussions remotely. As the settlement judge is not involved in the litigation of the case, they can provide candid, unbiased feedback, which can be very helpful in attempting to reach a settlement.
  4. MSPB Settlement Program– The MSPB judge assigned to hear the case at the hearing stage discusses settlement with the parties. As the judge is already familiar with the legal issues involved, they are well suited to discuss the possibility of settlement in these cases and identify potential areas for compromise. Settlement discussions in this process typically occur at pre-determined times in a case, such as at the pre-hearing stage or shortly after the case is assigned to the administrative judge.

Approval of Settlement Agreements

When a settlement agreement has been met, parties will submit the agreement to the administrative judge for review. If the settlement agreement is lawful, clear, and voluntarily entered into, the judge will issue an order dismissing the appeal as settled. Then, the agreement will be entered into the official MSPB record for enforcement purposes.

Enforcement of Settlement Agreements

MSPB has a mechanism to ensure that a settlement agreement that is placed in the record is adhered to. Though somewhat rare, if this becomes an issue for a client, the first step is to contact Agency counsel in an attempt to quickly resolve the issue before seeking to enforce a previously agreed to settlement. However, if resolution cannot be achieved, the MSPB has the authority to investigate and order compliance with the agreement.

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.

Listing of the Day: 1610 N Danville Street

By ARLnow.com
1/7

Address: 1610 N Danville Street
Neighborhood: Lyon Village
Type: 6 BR, 3 (+1 half) BA single-family detached – 3829 sq. ft.
Listed: $2,595,000

Noteworthy: Perfectly positioned on a tree-lined street in sought-after Lyon Village

This exquisite 1934 residence captures the timeless charm of Nantucket while blending modern comfort and sophistication. A romantic magnolia tree, solid wood entry door, and welcoming foyer set the tone upon arrival. Original French doors open to a formal living room with an inviting fireplace and custom built-ins. The elegant dining room features a designer light fixture, grass cloth wallpaper, and custom glass cabinetry crafted by a former White House cabinetmaker.

A handsome library with built-ins and a cozy bench seat provides a quiet retreat. The home flows seamlessly into an expansive family room with 10-foot coffered ceilings, custom shelving, and a wall of windows that bathe the space in natural light. A casual dining area with a striking oversized light fixture connects to the updated kitchen, complete with a marble island, quartz counters, white cabinetry, dual sinks, beverage drawers, and premium appliances.

Upstairs, the primary suite boasts a cathedral ceiling, two closets, and a spa-like bath with marble tile and heated floors. Additional spacious bedrooms and a hall bath with a double vanity accommodate family and guests. A versatile loft level offers an office and space for a bedroom or playroom. The newly renovated walkout basement includes a recreation room with a beverage station, bedroom, full bath, and laundry area, providing flexible living space. Outdoor living is equally impressive with a custom-designed covered Ipe deck featuring a built-in grill, a flagstone patio, fenced yard, and mature landscaping with irrigation system—perfect for entertaining. A one-car garage completes this exceptional property.

https://listings.blueskyemedia.com/videos/01991ecb-4ec7-72ad-bec0-614767b18a83

Listed by:
Sheri Grant
[email protected]
(703) 405-1016

Small Business Focus: Explore Arlington’s Creative Pulse at the 2025 ArtWalk

By Sponsor
Reclining Liberty

This article is written and sponsored by Arlington Economic Development.

Get ready to experience Arlington like never before! On Saturday, October 4, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., the 2025 Arlington ArtWalk invites you to take a self-guided journey through the heart of Arlington’s vibrant arts scene — stretching from Clarendon to Ballston.

Now in its fourth year, the ArtWalk is more than just a stroll — it’s a celebration of creativity, community and placemaking. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday, this free event offers something for everyone. Expect live music, interactive workshops, curated exhibitions and a bustling artisan market, all woven into a walkable experience that highlights the best of Arlington’s cultural landscape.

Some must-see activation sites include:

  • MoCA Arlington: Kick off the evening with their Art After Hours celebration, featuring new fall exhibitions, a cash bar reception and the Made in Arlington Market — perfect for early holiday shopping.
  • Fred Schnider Gallery of Art: Discover “Expedition” by Chris Gregson, a mesmerizing series of layered, gestural artworks that redefine abstract expression.
  • Cody Gallery at Marymount University: Don’t miss “Tunnel Vision,” a multi-media exhibition by Foon Sham, including the interactive sculpture “Shield.”
  • WHINO: Dive into the world of Lowbrow and Pop Surrealism with a special group show featuring iconic and emerging artists from the Art Whino collective.
  • Northside Social Arlington: Enjoy live painting by John Hartt, music by Later Jane and local wine tastings in a cozy, art-filled atmosphere.
  • Arlington Public Library’s Maker Studio “The Shop”: Tour the makerspace and get hands-on with creative projects until 5:00 p.m. Plus don’t miss the Chalk Riot Installation which is a live chalk art activation that will start at 3:00 p.m.
  • Mason Exhibitions Arlington: Explore contemporary Kurdish identity through art and live music in the outdoor breezeway.

With dozens of stops and surprises along the way, the ArtWalk is your passport to discovering the rich tapestry of Arlington’s creative community. Be sure to download the custom ArtWalk Map to guide your journey and keep the inspiration going year-round.

Art lives here — come be part of it. For more information about the Arlington ArtWalk visit www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com.

Click Here

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: September 10, 2025

By Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price 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: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of September 8, there are 211 detached homes, 50 townhouses and 219 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 42 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

4320 Lorcom Lane

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.

Double your impact for kids with cancer, September 10–14 only

By Michele Fleming

Donate Now to Help Fund Safer, More Effective Treatments for Childhood Cancer

At Nathan’s Cancer Slayers, a local fundraising team under Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, we are on a mission to change the future for children with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) and all childhood cancers.

RMS is an aggressive cancer that robbed my son Nathan of his ability to walk, see, hear, and chew. In 2020, I formed Nathan’s team to help other kids in Nathan’s honor. Since then, we’ve raised more than $580,000, previously funding Georgetown Lombardi’s research into targeted drug treatments.

This year, we’re supporting groundbreaking new research led by:

🧬 Dr. Valter Longo (University of Southern California)
🧬 Dr. JinSeok Park (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles)

Their goal is to develop a low-toxicity, combination treatment strategy that we believe could be a game-changer for children and families facing cancer.

The medical field has long focused on identifying “magic bullets”—highly specific treatments that target cancer cells without affecting healthy ones. However, this approach is notoriously difficult.

Instead, Drs. Longo and Park are leveraging basic biological differences between normal and cancer cells to develop highly effective, low-toxicity therapies that are available now. These treatments exploit cancer’s hidden weaknesses and make it harder for cancer to adapt or develop resistance.

1/11

🔬 A gentle yet powerful combination

This study will test an innovative, multi-hit strategy backed by decades of research:

  • Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD): A 5-day dietary intervention that mimics fasting — without full food deprivation.
  • High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C (HDIVC): Delivered in concentrations far beyond what diet alone can provide.
  • Doxycycline: An FDA-approved antibiotic shown to prevent metastasis, eliminate cancer stem cells, and promote cancer cell death.

Using cutting-edge genetic tools, the research team will also identify how cancer cells “escape” treatment — and then apply low-toxicity drugs to block those escape routes and prevent resistance.

❤️ Why we believe in this

This approach isn’t just theoretical for us — we’ve personally experienced its potential.

When Nathan was in hospice, he received HDIVC and doxycycline for two weeks. His energy soared, and MRI scans showed the cancer had stopped advancing during that period. Sadly, the cancer had already metastasized to his spinal fluid, and a different alternative treatment failed. But we saw firsthand the promise of this gentle approach.

Our beloved Labrador, Parker, benefited from fasting. Diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma in 2022 and given just months to live, he survived over 3 years — more than 5x longer than average — and maintained excellent quality of life. The only thing we did differently than other pet owners was to add daily time-restricted fasting to his treatment plan.

🧪 The science is solid

Extensive lab and clinical research — including in triple-negative breast, colorectal, lung, and pancreatic cancers — shows that this combination therapy:

✅ Weakens cancer cells, making them more vulnerable to chemotherapy and other standard treatments

✅ Reduces treatment resistance

✅ Strengthens normal cells and protects them from toxic side effects

✅ Stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells

✅ Slows tumor growth

✅ Reduces harsh side effects, including fatigue, nausea, and organ damage

🎥 WATCH this powerful 7-minute video from Dr. Longo — it could change the way you think about cancer treatment.

Dr. Longo, author of The Longevity Diet and Fasting Cancer, explains the science and the results that inspired us to act:

👉 You can also watch the FULL REPLAY of Dr. Longo’s talk in Vienna, VA on 8/31.

👉 Dr. Valter Longo: Low-Toxicity Combo Approach To Treat Childhood Cancers | Nathan’s Cancer Slayers

🎯 Double your donation: Sept 10–14 ONLY (Wed – Sun)

Thanks to the generosity of Volvo Cars, every dollar donated from September 10–14 will be matched 100% — doubling your impact instantly! 💪

🗓️ Donate NOW:
👉  Donate to Nathan’s Cancer Slayers 2025 | Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer

🌱 Let’s give kids the futures they deserve

Our ultimate goal is to launch a clinical trial within 3 years — and revolutionize how we treat childhood cancer.

But we need your help.

Only 4% of the National Cancer Institute budget goes to childhood cancer research, and because childhood cancers are rare compared with most adult cancers, there are few financial incentives for pharmaceutical companies to invest in safer treatments.

That’s why philanthropic support is critical.

Let’s fund science. Let’s fund hope.
Let’s create a world where no child has to suffer through cancer the way Nathan did.

🙌 Thank you to our local heroes

We are beyond grateful for the outpouring of support from local businesses that has made our team’s success possible.

Special thanks to:

This year, co-owner Karen Waltman continues Pie-Tanza’s incredible support for the 6th year in a row, donating 10% of all Wednesday sales in September, including for Nathan’s 24th birthday — Sept 20. Karen also donates their famous brownies to all our Lemonade Stands. 💛

We’re also incredibly grateful to:

…for graciously hosting our summer Lemonade Stands! 🍋🎗️

Your support proves that community + compassion = change.

Donate in Memory of Nathan Fleming 💪

Latin music series “NaLa Noches” comes to National Landing’s Met Park this fall

By National Landing Business Improvement District
NaLa Noches

Spice up your Thursdays with NaLa Noches, a new Latin music series this fall in National Landing’s beautiful Metropolitan Park in Arlington. The free weekly series celebrates the broader diaspora of Latin music, kicking off Thursday, September 18 (5:00 – 7:00 p.m.) with a performance by Max Rosado, a powerhouse vocalist known for his salsa and tropical rhythms. During the live music guests are invited to grab a bite on-site from local favorite Taqueria Xochi, enjoy free Topo Chico (while supplies last) and dive into hands-on art activities hosted by the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Plus, stop by the National Landing BID tent for giveaways!  

The music lineup features a diverse array of groups handpicked by DC trumpet legend Joe Herrera. Getting there is easy; Metropolitan Park is a short walk from the Pentagon City Metro and buses, and there is ample parking in nearby garages. 

NaLa Noches music lineup:
September 18: Max Rosado (Salsa)
September 25: Gigi MacLaughlin (Brazilian music)
October 2: Miramar (Boleros)
October 9: Fran Vielma (Venezuela jazz)
October 16: Alfredo Mojica (Salsa)
October 23: Bio Ritmo (Psychedelic Salsa)

The free series takes place Thursdays, Sept 18-Oct 23, 5-7pm, Metropolitan Park, 1330 S Fair Street, Arlington, VA. The event is produced by the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID) with support from Amazon. 

Free to attend; RSVPs are encouraged. Visit the website for details.

Celebrate Latin music in Met Park

Ask Eli: Don’t get fired for mortgage fraud

By Eli Tucker

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 [email protected].

Question: What constitutes mortgage fraud that would cause somebody like Lisa Cook to lose their job?

Answer: After President Trump fired Federal Reserve Board of Governors member, Lisa Cook, over mortgage fraud, it’s fair to do a double take of your own mortgage decisions and make sure you have not slipped up and put yourself at risk. Mortgage fraud is a federal crime and can lead to jail, fines, loss of security clearance, and more.

For those worrying, I’ll review some of the basic principles on what constitutes mortgage fraud and why most people have nothing to worry about.

TL;DR Video Summary (2:26):

Why Would Somebody Commit Mortgage Fraud?

The main reason somebody would be enticed to commit mortgage fraud is to get themselves better loan terms including a lower interest rate, lower down payment requirement, or easier lending standards. It almost always comes in the form of telling the bank a property you’re buying will be used as your primary residence, when you actually intend to use it for another purpose (rental, vacation home, etc).

Loans on primary residences are less risky than loans on investment properties or vacation homes and thus get preferred lending treatment.

Banks Require Occupancy Deadline and Occupancy Period

Banks expect two things from borrowers if a loan is being classified as a primary residence:

  1. The Borrower must intend to move into the property within 60 days of settlement
  2. The Borrower must intend to live in the property as their primary residence for at least 12 months

The 60-day rule is why you won’t (shouldn’t) see seller rent-backs exceed 59/60 days when the buyer is purchasing with a primary residence mortgage because a 60+ day rent-back prevents the buyer from taking occupancy within the required 60 days.

It’s All About Intent

Notice that I bolded and italicized “intent” above because that is the most important factor in determining whether somebody has committed mortgage fraud. Banks require borrowers to sign and acknowledge at closing their intention to move into the property within 60 days and live there for at least 12 months, but not that they will do those two things. In other words, the bank does not require you to meet those requirements, they require that you intend to do so at the time of settlement.

Life changes often, quickly, and significantly and life changes do not mean somebody is committing mortgage fraud. Anything that occurs after settlement that changes your intended use of the property and results in you not meeting one or both of those requirements (60-day occupancy deadline and 12 months of occupancy) is legal, acceptable, and does not constitute mortgage fraud.

Job offer or job loss? You’re fine. Have a baby and need a different home? You’re fine. If you can justify your intent of meeting the requirements at the time of closing, you have nothing to worry about.

If your intended use of the property changes at any time prior to signing the closing paperwork, discuss it with your lender.

Do Investment Properties Need to be Investment Loans?

If you decide to keep your primary residence as an investment property after you move out, you do not need to convert the loan to an investment loan, it can remain a primary residence loan with the same terms; that is not mortgage fraud.

Even if you decide to move out in less than 12 months from settlement, for legitimate reasons, you won’t find yourself guilty of mortgage fraud, unless you are displaying a pattern of that behavior that suggests your intent at closing was to convert into an investment property in less than 12 months.

What About Renovations that Take More than 60 Days?

One of the trickier scenarios that come up is a buyer purchasing a primary residence, with a mortgage, who plans to do major renovations that will take more than 60 days to complete and thus they know they won’t be able to occupy the property within 60 days, but fully intend it to be used as a primary residence.

The vast majority of buyers choose to proceed with a mortgage classified as a primary residence in this scenario and it would be extraordinarily rare for somebody to be charged with mortgage fraud who fully intends to occupy the property as their primary home once the work is complete, but if you are a borrower who wants to take zero risk with the law, you may need to consider purchasing using an investment loan and then refinance into a primary residence loan once the work is completed. This is something you should discuss with your loan officer.

What Did Lisa Cook Do?

So, where does Lisa Cook, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors member who was recently fired by President Trump for mortgage fraud, fit into all of this? She is accused of obtaining two loans classified as primary home mortgages within two weeks of each other – one for a purchase in Michigan and the other for a purchase in Georgia. If a borrower purchases two homes in short sequence and knowingly claims them both as a primary home mortgage, that is considered mortgage fraud because one cannot intend to occupy both properties as a primary residence at the same time. I will leave the determination on whether Lisa Cook knowingly committed fraud to the courts…

If you are ever unsure about what constitutes mortgage fraud, the solution is simple: be honest and transparent with your loan officer and you should never find yourself in violation of the law.

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

We have access to the most pre and off-market listings across the DMV of any brokerage and are happy to share what’s available with anybody who asks.

Below are some of our team’s pre/off-market listings, details and additional listings available by request:

  • Rosslyn 2BR/2BA/1,100 sqft – condo (2008) – 1800 Wilson Blvd Arlington VA 22201
  • Rosslyn 2BR+den/2.5BA/2,000 sqft – condo (2021) – 1781 N Pierce St Arlington VA 22209
  • Ballston – 4BR/3.5BA+office/4,000 sqft – Four Townhouses (2026/2027) – 11th St N Arlington VA 22201
  • Falls Church City – 4BR/4.5BA/3,000+ sqft – End-unit townhouse (1995) – Rees Pl Falls Church VA 22046
  • Rosslyn – 2BR+den/2.5BA/2,000+ sqft – Condo (2021) – 1781 N Pierce St Arlington VA 22209
  • Highland Park/Overlee Knolls – 6BR/5.5BA/5,000+ sqft – Detached Single Family (2025) – 22nd Rd N Arlington VA 22205

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.

Schedule a meeting

Tonight at the library! – Free home buyer workshop

By Jean Ropp

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Jean Ropp

Tonight we are hosting another Ask Eli Home Buyer Workshop with local Loan Officer, Matt Ropp, with Atlantic Coast Mortgage. Taco Bamba catering will be provided.

Come out tonight and get your home buying questions answered!

Buyers now have more negotiating power, more choices, and…lower interest rates! Whether you are a new or experienced homeowner, come learn about the market and how our team positions buyers for success.

The workshop is a free and will cover:

  • How to use data and strategy to maximize your home purchase
  • The latest on interest rates and mortgage programs/products
  • Common mistakes to avoid and some tips for success

Who is it for?

  • Any buyer type from first-time buyer to experienced buyers
  • Ready to purchase now or planning 12+ months out
  • You or anybody you know who would benefit

Where and When?

  • TONIGHT Monday September 8 from 6-7:30PM
  • Arlington Central Library (1015 N Quincy St), Bluemont Room

Registration is still open! Bring your appetite and your home buying questions! I’d love to see you there. Questions about the workshop tonight? Please text or call Jean Ropp 781.635.5530

A poster for a house party AI-generated content may be incorrect.

If you have questions or would like to be notified about our next workshop, please email Jean at [email protected]

Free Sign Up Link

Award-winning preschool now enrolling new students

By Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool

If you’re looking for an environment that encourages your child’s curiosity and helps build their confidence, you’ve come to the right place! Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool is actively enrolling new students for the 2025-2026 school year. Our award-winning preschool program is designed to nurture young learners’ desire to explore new things and foster their independence through hands-on discovery. Northeast Stars is open to children ages 2-5 and follows traditional Montessori principles, allowing each child to learn at their own pace while building confidence and critical thinking skills. Our daily curriculum and scheduled activities are designed to introduce new experiences, foster creativity and develop real-world capabilities to help your child thrive.

Northeast Stars has schools located in Alexandria, Virginia and on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. and we are currently accepting applications for the new academic year. The school welcomes families who want their children to develop strong foundations for lifelong learning. Parents who are interested in more information can contact Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool today to schedule a tour and discuss enrollment opportunities.

Learn more!

The ins and outs of selling a business

By Sponsor
Dustin Zeher, Principal Broker

The process for selling a business can often be overwhelming and confusing. Everything from setting an asking price, finding a buyer, and negotiating a deal while still operating your business can be fraught without guidance or help along the way. In our experience, when there are businesses that are listed for sale and don’t find a buyer, it’s often for one of several common reasons. The good news is that most of these issues are fixable and can be avoided if addressed ahead of time!

Ideally, business owners will plan for the sale of their business when they start their business or at least several years in advance to allow time to plan their exit and ensure they maximize the value of their enterprise. Even if you aren’t considering selling your business in the next few years, it’s still worth obtaining a business valuation. A valuation, even if you aren’t quite ready to sell, can serve as an important benchmark to determine the true value of your business. After the valuation is complete, you will know how your business might fare when listed for sale and you will be able to address any weaknesses that might be in the way of you obtaining a higher sale price. It’s never a good feeling to be ready to sell your business only to find out it’s worth a fraction of what you might feel it’s worth. In our firm’s last article, we went into detail about business valuations. Click here to read more about what goes into a business valuation.

This important preparation lead time will enable a business owner not to just get their business ready for sale, but to ensure they are ready to list their business when market conditions are favorable. There are times when certain macro-economic conditions can adversely affect the broader business-for-sale marketplace. The last thing a business owner wants is to be in a position where they feel like they have to sell, but the timing isn’t right. We recommend that business owners take the approach that they are going to run their business forever even when they decide to sell to make sure they are in the best position to review offers when the time comes.

Our firm had a recent client who initially contacted us in 2021 looking for information on how to sell their IT business based in Northern Virginia. We helped them understand what buyers look for when purchasing a business like theirs, including: ensuring they had a diverse mix of clients so there wasn’t major concentration with only a handful of customers, that their client contracts were assignable and had new long term agreements in place, to be sure they had accurate financial data for their business, and for the owners to delegate the sales and IT Service work. We came to market in late 2024, fielded over 150 inquiries from interested buyers, and had over 10 offers in just a couple of weeks after listing the business for sale. The business sold in early 2025 for almost 17% above asking price! This client benefited from pre-sale planning, fine tuning their business, and engaging with a business broker before they were ready to sell. The result was a very high level of interest and a quicker than average sale time for above asking price.

Business buyers will want to review financial documents, tax returns, employment agreements and payroll files, client and vendor contracts, and point of sale reports (if applicable) to verify that any information presented to them is accurate. A business owner will need to spend some time making sure their books and records are in order before buyer due diligence takes place. Business owners can work with a business broker to also get their business pre-qualified for a SBA loan prior to listing their business for sale. This will not only help with marketing the business, but also with addressing common questions that might be raised by a lender.

As a business owner, make sure your business is ready to run when you are out of the picture. Businesses that are entirely reliant on the owner, one key product, or perhaps a major customer or two can be a turn off to prospective buyers as they fear performance will drop off significantly once the owner departs. A business owner also needs to offer a transitional training and support period to the buyer as well. The exact time and duration often depends on the complexities of the business and experience of the buyer, but should allow the new owner to feel more comfortable when they finally take over. Another effective tool for business owners looking to sell that generally instills buyer confidence is to offer some form of seller financing. The amount of seller financing might be as low as 10-20% of the sale price, but can help facilitate the transaction depending on the circumstances of the sale.

Lastly, whether you are planning to buy or sell a business, we always recommend seeking guidance. A knowledgeable business broker can assist you in setting a price, determining when is the right time to sell, preparing the business for sale, confidentially advertising and marketing the sale, negotiating with prospective buyers, and recommending advisors for any legal or financial issues that need to be addressed. Please contact us today if you are interested in speaking with someone from our team.

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Arts Focus: The 33rd Rosslyn Jazz Fest takes you from Memphis to NoLa to Havana 

By Sponsor
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This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

Chill out and groove at the 33rd Annual Rosslyn Jazz Fest on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Gateway Park, 1300 Langston Blvd.in Arlington.

Headlining this year’s festival is Grammy-nominated Southern Avenue, a Memphis-based group known for its electrifying blend of blues, soul and gospel. The band will bring powerhouse vocals and high-energy sound to the stage following its latest album, Family, on Alligator Records.

Now in its 33rd year, the Rosslyn Jazz Fest is co-presented by the Rosslyn Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with Arlington Arts. The festival has become a cultural cornerstone in the DMV, recognized for curating progressive lineups in jazz, funk and soul.

Set against the gorgeous Rosslyn skyline, the festival combines urban energy with park-side relaxation. In addition to live music, attendees can peruse Patch or Swap, the new textile rescue activation of the Arlington Art Truck. Enjoy local food trucks, outdoor bars, games and family activities, with admission free for all.

Joining Southern Avenue is a standout slate of performers:

  • New Breed Brass Band: A high-energy, New Orleans-style brass band infused with jazz, funk, hip-hop and R&B. Coached by Trombone Shorty, New Breed delivers music for and by New Orleans’ next generation.
  • The Sensational Barnes Brothers: Soulful siblings blending gospel roots with modern influences. Pop Matters praises their ability to bridge the gap between the Soul Stirrers and Stax while keeping a local flavor.
  • Son Cubano Subterraneo: A DC-based group rooted in the golden era of Cuban music. Led by sonero Gerardo Contino and tres maestro Josh Schneck, the band delivers rhythms brimming with sabor.

Beloved local media personality Tommy McFly will return as emcee, guiding festivalgoers through a day of world-class performances with his signature charm and energy.

“Rosslyn Jazz Fest is more than a music festival. It’s a platform for multicultural expression and emerging talent,” said Josh Stoltzfus, Deputy Director of Arlington Cultural Affairs. “Each year we spotlight both globally and locally inspired sounds across jazz, funk and soul to celebrate the diversity of Arlington and our neighboring communities, for what we hope is the last and best party of the summer.” Check out the Spotify Playlist!

“We are excited to host Rosslyn Jazz Fest every year because music brings people together and strengthens community,” said Mary-Claire Burick, president of the Rosslyn BID. “It’s a full afternoon of unforgettable performances, dancing, local food trucks and activities for all ages, an experience that reflects the vibrancy and connection we enjoy in Rosslyn.”

Rosslyn Jazz Fest returns Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025. Admission is free. Tickets are available now at www.rosslynva.org/jazzfest.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: September 3, 2025

By Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price 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: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of September 1, there are 182 detached homes, 44 townhouses and 194 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 31 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

4709 7TH Street S

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.

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