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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.

Statutes of Liberty: USCIS will no longer accept checks or money orders

By James Montana

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 Taryn Druge, 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.

Our immigration system is, in the main, funded by immigrants rather than tax dollars. Nearly 90% of immigration benefits applications – green card applications, work permit applications, the new asylum application, H-1B petitions, you name it – come with checks or money orders attached. Soon – on October 28, 2025 – that venerable system will come to an end. Inevitably, many people will miss the memo, and enormous numbers of applications will be returned to sender. The purpose of this sponsored post is to diminish that number slightly, and to offer a guide on how to make payments using the new system.

Method 1: ACH Transaction Using Form G-1650

The first method for paying via bank transfer, using Form G-1650. To do this, you have to hold a bank account – either checking or savings – at a U.S. bank. You have to provide the routing and account numbers for that bank account, and you have to sign a piece of paper authorizing the transfer of a specified sum of money. (If those elements sound familiar to you, that’s because they are the key characteristics of a check.) Use a computer to complete the form, print it, sign it, and attach it to your benefits application.

Interestingly, USCIS notes that you may need to contact your bank to permit USDHS to debit funds by ACH, and so it would be wise to speak to your bank to ensure that the Agency Location Codes – at this date, 7001010330, 7001010331, 7001010335, and 7001010390 – are authorized for debits.

Method 2: Credit Card Authorization Using Form G-1450

The second method is to authorize a credit card payment using Form G-1450. To do this, you have to have a working credit card, debit card, or prepaid debit card. Use a computer to complete the form, print it, sign it, and attach it to the benefits application.

USCIS currently notes that it only accepts credit card payments for payments to the USCIS Service Centers or USCIS Lockboxes. Currently, those two types of offices accept the overwhelming majority of payments, but some payments are made directly to the USCIS Field Offices – e.g., applications for emergency advance parole. It is unclear how those payments will be handled, but the current Policy Manual states that either a check or Form G-1450 will be acceptable.

Method 3: Request a Waiver Using Form G-1651

The third (and somewhat questionable) method is to attach a check or money order made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” and request a waiver of the electronic payment requirement via Form G-1651. We can’t provide you with a copy of that form. USCIS promised to provide it by August 29, 2025, but they haven’t done so. USCIS says that these will be the acceptable categories for an exemption:

  • Individuals who do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems;
  • Electronic disbursement would cause undue hardship, as contemplated in 31 CFR Part 208;
  • National security or law enforcement related activities where non-EFT transactions are necessary or desirable; and
  • Other circumstances as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, as reflected in regulations or other guidance.

Whether these exemptions are real or not will depend on the bureaucratic apparatus. The biggest category by far is individuals who do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems, which includes many immigrants. (Without a social security number, it is difficult to open a bank account.) USCIS may allow such applicants to pay via check or money order, attaching a Form G-1651; or USCIS may argue that the availability of prepaid debit cards over the counter means that everyone has effective access to electronic payment systems.

Our view is that this change is likely to make it harder for many people to apply for benefits on their own. Of course, as lawyers, we think it’s generally advisable to engage counsel to represent you before USCIS. We will have no trouble adapting to the new payment system. But this is just another little layer of complexity which will make an already complex system even more challenging for ordinary people to navigate – and, as such, we think it’s an unwelcome change.

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.

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.

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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.

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

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.

Active listings near Arlington County trails

By Carolanne Korolowicz

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Carolanne Korolwicz

As the scorching days of summer come to an end, we welcome days of comfortable temperatures, changing landscapes, and hot coffee. One of the most tranquil ways to celebrate cooler days is to take advantage of the nature trails in Arlington County.

Home to over 15 trails, residents can find these mini escapes within walking distance. West of Arlington may be known for their natural wonders, but nothing beats rolling out of bed, getting shoes on the kids, a leash on the dog and just having to get out the front door.

If being a little closer to wilderness, without the bad wi-fi and commute, is appealing to you, the real estate market has a plethora of homes that make “touching grass” a reality within Arlington’s urban landscape.

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Bluemont Junction Trail

Trail at Dawson Terrace Park

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Trail at Donaldson Run Park

Long Branch Nature Center

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Lubber Run Park

This is just a glimpse of the homes available a stone’s throw away from the county’s well maintained trails, parks and creeks. Looking for more options around your favorite local getaways? Let’s chat! Feel free to email me at [email protected].

Ask Eli: Arlington school ratings and home values

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: How much of a difference do schools make in the value of homes in Arlington?

Answer: I hope all parents, students, and teachers had a great first week back at school! If you enjoy reading my columns, I would appreciate your vote for top real estate agent in Arlington Magazine’s “Best Of Arlington 2026” poll. Use this link to vote, and don’t forget to include your other favorite local businesses and service providers. These recognitions mean a lot to local businesses.

Nothing drives home values like schools and for most buyers around here, that is based on the ten-point ratings scale on from GreatSchools.org. Let me be clear, this article is not meant to validate or challenge the quality of GreatSchools ratings, rather, it’s an acknowledgement of the weight the website’s ratings has on home buyer decisions and, therefore, home values.

Tips for Using Schools in Your Home Search

  • Families define a “good school” differently. Whether that’s test scores, socioeconomic diversity, language instruction, athletics, or a STEM focus think about what matters most to you and target schools that fit your values.
  • GreatSchools offers more than just a single rating, they offer component data as well. Dig deeper and look at the components of a school’s rating and review them based on what you value.
  • I know parents who have had both excellent and terrible experiences at top and low rated schools alike. The GreatSchools rating is not everything.
  • There are excellent public resources available for research including the Virginia Dept of Education’s School Quality Profiles and information nights for each school where you can see a school and interact with teachers first-hand
  • There are numerous message boards with loads of information about school operations like disability support, college readiness, and athletics
  • There are other private ratings websites like Niche.com and US News and World Report that offer different perspectives and ways of ranking schools
  • Arlington County has an A+ grade from Niche.com, ranking as the #2 school district in Virginia, just behind Falls Church City. Loudoun County ranks #4 and Fairfax County ranks #6 in Virginia, each with an A grade.

Analyzing Arlington Homes by GreatSchools Ratings

If school ratings are an important focus for you, you can use the table below to figure out what the most efficient use of your budget is to maximize your GreatSchools rating per dollar spent. In the table, I calculate the cost per GreatSchools rating point, based on the average price of a 3+ bedroom home in that school boundary.

The data uses sales since January 1 2024 of homes with at least three bedrooms, including condos (condos make up only about 5% of the total sales in this data set). Only neighborhood schools are included in this analysis, not the magnet/option schools.

  • The lowest cost per GreatSchools point elementary schools are Barcroft (7), Glebe (9), and Tuckahoe (9)
  • The lowest cost per GreatSchools point middle school is Gunston (7), followed closely by Kenmore (7)
  • The lowest cost per GreatSchools point high school is Yorktown (9)
  • The most expensive school to buy housing in on a total cost basis is Jamestown Elementary (8), but the most expensive per bedroom is Innovation Elementary (6)
  • The least expensive school to buy housing in on a total cost and price per bedroom basis is Abingdon Elementary (3)
  • Alice West Fleet (6) is the only school with a GS rating over 4 and average home price under $1M
  • Ashlawn Elementary has the most homes sold (158) with 3+ bedrooms since 2024 and Hoffman-Boston has the least (44)
  • It costs about 60% more to buy a 3+ bedroom homes in Arlington’s highest rated high school boundary (Yorktown, 9) compared to its lowest rated high school boundary (Wakefield, 4). The Wakefield HS boundary is the only high school market with an average sold price of a 3+ bedroom home under $1M.

A table with numbers and a number of people AI-generated content may be incorrect.

If you’d like some more personalized data run for you using home sales and GreatSchools ratings, you’re welcome to reach out to me at [email protected]. I’m happy to help.

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

Dear lawyers and law students: We’re hiring!

By James Montana

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 Taryn Druge, 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.

Our little law office is hiring for two positions: Attorney and Legal Intern (Fall Semester). The details and tips on how to apply are below, in Q&A style.

Do you want to send out lots of wax-sealed letters to clients? Apply now!

Q: Hiring, eh? How much cash on the barrel?

A: Depends on the position. The Attorney position comes with a starting salary of $75,000, with guaranteed bonuses if you meet fairly achievable revenue targets. Those bonuses are $20,000 and $25,000, respectively, so the range of compensation is $75,000 – $120,000 per year. The Law Clerk position is paid hourly, and the amount depends on your background. (Certain local law schools won’t give you class credit if we pay you. We prefer to pay you, but we can forgo paying you if that’s what you need.)

Q: What? I thought that lawyers dove into piles of gold coins all day, like Scrooge McDuck!

A: It depends. On Wall Street, we are reliably informed that big law firm partners can make more than $15,000,000 per year – more than the bankers who pay them! Immigration lawyers are much more modestly compensated.

Q: Why should I work for you? ICE pays a $50K starting bonus and I want to deport illegals with my absolute boys!

A: We offer great benefits and a wonderful place to work.

Generous Benefits
We offer extremely generous benefits – better than every local nonprofit, including paid parental leave, 70% of health insurance / vision / dental covered from your first day on, FSA, retirement plan with a generous match – you name it, we offer it!

Easy Commute
Commuting into DC is for masochists. Working here isn’t. Our beautiful old office, built in 1870, is in the heart of Falls Church. We have plenty of free parking and a verdant, wooded landscape around our building.

Helping People in Need
Our clients come from all walks of life. Some come from vulnerable circumstances. You’ll work with them, and you’ll make a huge difference for them.

Collegial Environment
We pride ourselves doing cases one at a time. You won’t be forced to take cases. Instead, you’ll evaluate cases on your own, and build your own docket within the firm based on your own capacity and interests. We offer both independence and mentorship for new lawyers.

Q: Do you offer Work from Home?

A: No. Why? Because, as noted, we work with many people who come from vulnerable circumstances. These clients are best served by meeting with you in person. We are unwilling to compromise on this point, because, shorn of the verbiage, WFH means telling poor people to go pound sand.

Q: You don’t sound fun.

A: But in reality, I’m actually very fun, relaxed, and easy-going.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Email James at [email protected]. Send a CV and a cover letter.

Q: What are the requirements for each position?

A: For Attorney, we require a bar license and a JD. We’re happy to hire new lawyers. Spanish fluency is a big plus. Immigration experience is, of course, a plus too.

A(2): For Legal Intern, we require that you be enrolled at a local law school. That’s it! We’re here to help with your education and pay you a decent wage.

Questions about the jobs? Ask in the comments. We’ll respond, just like we always do.

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