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Legal Insider: What does the U.S. Office of Special Counsel do?

By Sponsor

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

By John V. Berry

The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) investigates many different types of issues. OSC’s authority comes from several federal laws. The primary mission of the OSC is to protect federal employees and applicants from Prohibited Personnel Practices (PPP)s. The OSC has been in the news lately for its defense of probationary federal employees who were recently terminated.

What are Prohibited Personnel Practices?

The OSC’s primary mission is to safeguard the merit system by protecting federal employees and applicants from PPPs, especially reprisal against whistleblowing. The OSC is in charge of investigating many different areas of law. The 14 PPPs that the OSC investigates include:

  1. Discrimination: Complaints about discrimination on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability (or handicapping condition), marital status, or political affiliation;
  2. Inappropriate Recommendations: Considering inappropriate recommendations based on political connections or influence;
  3. Coercing Political Activity: (Hatch Act cases) Engaging in, or coercing others to engage in the support of political candidates;
  4. Obstructing Competition for Employment: Agency officials are barred from intentionally deceiving or obstructing others from competing for federal employment;
  5. Influencing Withdrawal from Competition: Similar to obstruction, it is illegal for an agency official to improperly influence an individual to withdraw from federal employment competition in order to benefit or disadvantage another person’s employment prospects;
  6. Granting Unauthorized Advantage: Also similar to influence or obstruction, federal agency officials are prohibited from granting unauthorized advantages to benefit others;
  7. Nepotism: The unlawful hiring or promotion of a relative;
  8. Whistleblower Retaliation: One of the most important PPPs. This involves retaliation taken against a federal employee for their disclosure of: (1) a violation of law, rule, or regulation; (2) gross mismanagement; (3) gross waste of funds; (4) an abuse of authority; or (5) a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety. In many instances, these types of cases can later be taken to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB);
  9. Other Types of Retaliation: Retaliation for filing a grievance, giving testimony, cooperating with the OSC or Inspector General, or refusal to obey an unlawful order;
  10. Other Types of Discrimination: This section prohibits employees from penalizing employees for conduct that has not adversely impacted their performance;
  11. Veterans’ Preference: Federal agencies are barred from taking actions that would violate veterans’ preference requirements.
  12. Violating Rules That Implement a Merit System Principle: This is a catch-all provision. This PPP bars federal agency officials from taking–or failing to take– a personnel action that violates any other civil service law or regulation. This type of violation could be applied to most OSC complaints.
  13. Imposing Nondisclosure Agreements that Bar Whistleblowing: In the past, some federal agencies, as part of settlement agreements with federal employees, have attempted to bar them from speaking with OSC or Congress about their complaints. This PPP makes any attempt by an agency to do so illegal.
  14. Accessing Medical Records in Furtherance of Another PPP: Federal officials are prohibited from accessing the medical records of other federal employees or applicants to facilitate a violation of any of the other 13 PPPs. This PPP is not as common as some others.

How Does the OSC Investigate PPP Complaints?

When an individual files an OSC complaint, the OSC will open a file for investigation. The individual filing the complaint will get a notice from the OSC that a complaint has been opened. The level of investigation conducted varies depending on the facts of the case. The OSC investigates these claims and has the ability to prosecute violations of PPPs by obtaining an agency agreement or by seeking action by the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).

How Can OSC Enforce Their Findings?

If the OSC makes a determination that a PPP complaint should be prosecuted, then they can seek a stay of the personnel action. They can also seek corrective action. The OSC will send a letter to the federal agency asking them to resolve a violation of law. For example, if a complaint of an improper personnel action was found to be true, the OSC can request that the federal employee receive back pay or other remedies. Federal agencies will often agree to resolve cases with the OSC without the need for enforcement.

In cases where a PPP has been committed, the OSC can seek disciplinary action against the federal employee involved. These cases are often resolved through an agreed settlement regarding the disciplinary action to be imposed. If a resolution is not reached, the OSC can petition for disciplinary action against the federal employee directly. One example of when this may occur involves Hatch Act cases.

How Can You Enforce an OSC Complaint?

In whistleblower cases, if the OSC does not find whistleblower retaliation, an individual can usually take further action by filing with the MSPB. This is often the case as the OSC has limited resources compared to the volume of whistleblower cases it receives.

Having Legal Representation

If you have been contacted as a possible target of investigation by the OSC, then you have the right to have an attorney defend you. It is very important to obtain legal defense against allegations made by the OSC. You will also need legal representation if you have been targeted for retaliation or subjected to other illegal actions as a result of whistleblower activities. We represent both complainants and those accused before the OSC.

Contact Us

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in OSC cases. We represent individuals accused of wrongdoing by the OSC and individuals filing OSC complaints. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.

Statutes of Liberty: T’is the season for vacations and interns

By Sponsor

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.

This view will make a lovely new desktop wallpaper.

Our erstwhile Managing Attorney is taking some well-deserved time off this week, which means he is gazing out at some version of the above vista, while fending off mosquitoes, snakes, or possibly, bears. Meanwhile, since it has clearly been a slow news week in the field of immigration law, we thought we would take a break from the usual legal insights, and instead introduce you to the new member of our team. Meet our summer law clerk: Ava Lansbury!

Ava Lansbury at work

Ava started with us just after Memorial Day, and she has already proved herself indispensable in helping to make sure that the associates don’t burn down the place down in the boss’ absence. We asked her a few questions to find out what she’s making of the experience so far.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I’m from Arlington!

Q: Ahh. A bona fide local. Are there any fun facts about your name that you would like our readers to know?

A: Hmmm. My parents picked the name Ava because they liked it (which is a good reason, but not a very interesting one). Lansbury got changed from Landesberger when my grandfather came over from Austria.

Q: That is actually very interesting! There’s probably a whole untold story there. What drew you to want to try out this work in immigration law?

A: I want to help people! Although I’m not totally sure of what my future career will be, I know I want to do something where I can make a positive impact on other people’s lives. I’m also very interested in the way the law operates. One of my favorite classes I’ve taken so far in college was Philosophy of Law. I also wanted an opportunity to work on my Spanish over the summer.

Q: Did you have any prior experience or contact with the immigration system prior to starting here?

A: Not really. A lot of my Spanish classes in both high school and college have had some kind of focus on immigration and related issues, but I have a lot to learn!

Q: Well, you’ve picked quite a time to get into this. You have been with us for a whole seven days now. What is one thing that has surprised you so far?

A: One thing that has surprised me is how many different countries our clients represent. Over the last week, I have gotten to learn so much about other countries and cultures.

Q: What’s the most annoying task that you’ve been asked to do in your time here?

A: This is hard because everything I’ve done has been new and interesting to me! But I have to say filling out a whole new form because only one question got changed, that was pretty tedious.

Q: What are your plans for the remainder of your time in school?

A: In the fall I’ll be studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina! My classes will be focused on social movements and human rights. After that, I’ll finish up my last three semesters as a Sociology and Spanish double major while playing for the Smith Softball team.

Welcome aboard, Ava! We are excited to have you with us through the summer. And I’m sure you can’t wait to discover all the new form versions that USCIS will be forcing us to redo during this time.

As always, we are grateful for your questions and comments, and will do our best to respond.

Biz Talks: Explore New Career Opportunities in Arlington

By Sponsor
Team meeting in Arlington overlooking Nestlé HQ, a key local employer.

This article is sponsored by Arlington Economic Development.

Arlington continues to be a hub of opportunity for job seekers across a range of sectors. From cloud computing and healthcare to consulting and public service, local employers are actively hiring to support ongoing growth. According to recent data from JobsEQ, the following organizations posted the highest number of new job listings in Arlington over the past month:

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

AWS is expanding its operations in National Landing, with a focus on cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity and federal sector solutions. Current openings include cloud infrastructure engineers, solutions architects and security analysts. Learn more at the AWS Careers page.

Amazon

Beyond AWS, Amazon’s broader operations in Arlington are growing, with opportunities in logistics, human resources, and public policy. The company’s HQ2 development has led to increased hiring for corporate roles, including program managers and data analysts. To see current postings, visit Amazon’s Arlington Area jobs page.

VHC Health

Virginia Hospital Center (VHC Health) is a cornerstone of Arlington’s healthcare system. Recent postings include positions for a Director of Occupational Health, registered nurses, and administrative staff, reflecting the organization’s commitment to comprehensive community care. Visit VHC Health’s career page for more information.

Deloitte

Deloitte’s Arlington office is actively recruiting professionals in areas such as cybersecurity, risk management, and technology consulting. The firm seeks individuals to support its government and public sector clients with innovative solutions. Explore opportunities on Deloitte’s career page.

Booz Allen Hamilton

With a strong focus on defense and intelligence consulting, Booz Allen Hamilton has numerous openings in Arlington. Positions range from cybersecurity policy analysts to software engineers, supporting various federal agencies. Learn more on Booz Allen Hamilton’s career page.

Arlington County Government

The local government is hiring across multiple departments, including public safety, public works, and health services. Opportunities are available for firefighters, transportation planners, and public health nurses, among others. Learn more on Arlington County’s Career page.

Guidehouse

Guidehouse, a management consulting firm, is expanding its Arlington team with roles like Commercial Financial Services Consultants. The company focuses on serving public sector clients with strategic and technological solutions. Check out the latest opportunities on Guidehouse’s careers page.

Accenture

Accenture’s Arlington operations are growing, with job postings for consultants specializing in digital transformation, data analytics, and federal services. The firm is seeking talent to drive innovation in government projects. Explore opportunities on the company’s career page.

Nestlé USA

Nestlé’s U.S. headquarters in Rosslyn is hiring for roles in marketing, supply chain management, and product development. The company is looking for professionals to support its diverse portfolio of food and beverage brands. Find available opportunities on Nestle’s career page.

Motion Recruitment

As a staffing agency, Motion Recruitment is actively seeking candidates for various tech positions in Arlington, including software developers, IT support specialists, and project managers. They partner with numerous companies to fill critical roles in the tech sector. Check out opportunities on their careers page.

Arlington’s evolving job market reflects the strength of its innovation economy and its role as a regional leader in technology, healthcare and public service.

Job seekers can also take advantage of career resources through the Arlington Employment Center (AEC), including resume support, job fairs, career counseling and free access to job search tools. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or planning your next move, AEC is a trusted partner in your employment journey. Learn more at the AEC website.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: June 4, 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 June 2, there are 210 detached homes, 37 townhouses and 197 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 50 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

2825 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: How seller rent-backs work

By Sponsor

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].

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.

Question: We would like to stay in our home for a few weeks after we settle, can you explain the rent-back concept?

Answer: A Seller’s Post-Settlement Occupancy, more commonly referred to as a rent-back, allows a homeowner to sell their home, collect the proceeds, and continue living in the home for a pre-determined period after closing.

Some common scenarios for a rent-back are:

  • You need the sale proceeds for the purchase of your next home
  • You want to ensure the sale closes before you move out
  • You want to wait-out the end of the school year or last day at a job

How Rent-Backs Are Structured

The Northern Virginia Association of Realtors contract (as well as other regional contracts) provides a standard form for a Seller’s Post-Settlement Occupancy Agreement so you don’t need to worry about hiring an attorney. It functions as a short-term lease including:

  • How much the seller will pay the buyer for the rent-back
  • How long the rent-back lasts
  • A security deposit
  • A penalty for staying past the rent-back period
  • Who is responsible for utilities and maintenance (sellers)
  • Who is responsible for major issues from flood, fire, acts of God (buyers)
  • Requirement for buyer and seller to maintain property insurance coverage

Pre-Settlement and Post-Occupancy Walk Throughs

Buyers will conduct a pre-closing walk-through before they purchase the home where they have all the rights provided to them in a normal sale. At the end of the rent-back, the new owners will conduct another walk-through once the previous owners move out, which is like that of a walk-through at the end of a normal rental period. If the previous owners cause damage during the move-out, leave junk behind, or fail other property delivery requirements, the new owners can make a claim against the security deposit, which is generally held by the Title Company who handled the sale.

Time Limitations

If the home is being purchased as a primary residence and the buyers are taking out a mortgage, most loans require that the buyer intend to move into the property within 60 days of the closing and thus any rent-back is limited to 60 days (I usually recommend 59, just to avoid an issue with underwriting).

If a home is being purchased with cash or as a secondary home/investment property with a loan, the 60-day limit doesn’t apply. However, the contract form you’ll use explicitly states that it’s meant to give the seller the temporary right to use the property after closing and not subject to the Virginia Residential Landlord Tenant Act, so avoid using this form in place of a legitimate lease if the Buyer/Seller intend on a long-term rent-back.

Not Without Risk

For the new owners, a rent-back carries with it some of the same risks as being a landlord. Disputes over security deposit, damage in excess of the security deposit, or trouble with the previous owners moving out on time are all realities that buyers need to consider.

As with many decisions in a real estate transaction, a buyer’s willingness to agree to a rent-back is a matter of risk and benefit. The risk of issues arising like those mentioned above versus the benefit of offering the seller a rent-back can be the difference between the seller accepting your offer or taking somebody else’s.

Free Rent-Backs?

In a normal market, the fee for a rent-back is usually calculated using the buyer’s carrying costs (mortgage + taxes + insurance), but in competitive markets, many buyers offer sellers a free rent-back to increase the competitiveness of their offer. A free rent-back isn’t worth much if the seller is asking for an extra week, but it adds up if the buyer has a mortgage and the seller is asking to stay for a few weeks or more past closing and can be a highly valued term in the offer.

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

Upcoming (pre-market) ERG Listings, Details and Additional Listings Available by Request

  • Reston – 4BR/3.5BA/3,000 sqft – End-unit townhouse (1993) – Hollow Timber Ct Reston VA 20194
  • Falls Church City – 4BR/4.5BA/3,000+ sqft – End-unit townhouse (1995) – Rees Pl Falls Church VA 22046
  • Rosslyn – 3BR/2.5A/2,400 sqft – Condo (2022) – 1781 N Pierce St Arlington VA 22209
  • Arlington Ridge/Aurora Hills – 3BR/2.5BA/2,450sqft – Detached Single Family (1961) – S Grove St Arlington VA 22202
  • Tara Leeway Heights – 7BR/7.2BA/8,000sqft/half acre/pool – Detached Single Family (2026) – 1500 N Harrison St Arlington VA 22205
  • Highland Park/Overlee Knolls – 6BR/5.5BA/5,000+ sqft – Detached Single Family (2025) – 22nd Rd N Arlington VA 22205

Small Business Focus: Train with Chaz Builds Momentum with help from BizLaunch

By Sponsor
Chaz Berry

This article is sponsored by Arlington Economic Development.

Founded in September 2016, Train with Chaz is a health and wellness business helping busy professionals in Arlington lose weight and regain vitality through sustainable habits that boost energy, build confidence and fit seamlessly into their lives without adding stress.

Chaz Berry, an Arlingtonian, launched the business with a clear vision: to provide personalized health and fitness plans tailored to each client’s needs. “Unlike many programs that offer generic plans, this business focuses on creating an experience that feels like having a coach by your side every day,” Berry said.

In fall 2024, Berry leveraged BizLaunch resources to support business growth, particularly through the ReLaunch program. “BizLaunch helped me refine my target market, clarify my unique value proposition and develop a strong brand identity through effective use of colors and graphics,” Berry said.

One of Train with Chaz’s most powerful client stories involve a woman in her 50s who came to Berry feeling depleted and lacking confidence after experiencing several major life changes. With personalized coaching and consistent support, she underwent a transformative journey. “This story exemplifies the profound impact of personalized health coaching on individuals’ lives, highlighting the emotional, mental and physical growth that contributes to a thriving community,” Berry said.

Berry chose Arlington for its vibrant and supportive environment. The County’s parks, layout and balance of urban and suburban energy create an ideal setting for a wellness-focused business. “I also appreciate Arlington’s diversity, friendly vibe and the ease of access to fitness opportunities and stores,” Berry said.

Looking ahead, Berry plans to establish Train with Chaz as a trusted name in Arlington while expanding its reach through in-person and online programs. This growth strategy reflects a dedication to maintaining quality care and impactful results.

Learn more at www.train-with-chaz.com. If you’re a small business owner looking to grow your brand or refine your strategy, get in touch with BizLaunch today.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: May 28, 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 May 27, there are 206 detached homes, 18 townhouses and 207 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 43 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

3703 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.

Most and least expensive condos and townhomes sold in Arlington (May 2025)

By Sponsor
888 N Quincy St #2102

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

Here in Arlington, real estate is a spectator sport. Let’s take a look at some of the most and least expensive condos and townhomes sold in May 2025

Townhomes

Most expensive townhomes sold:

Condos

Most expensive condos sold:

Least expensive condos sold:

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

If you have any questions regarding these listings, or would like to schedule a private showing of a similar home, please feel free to reach out to Jean Ropp

Let The Eli Residential Team expertly guide you through the unique market dynamics in Arlington. Start by filling the form below. It will support ARLnow’s local news mission and you’ll get some perks in the process.

Ask Eli: Price reductions on the rise nationally and locally

By Sponsor

Question: Have you noticed more price reductions on homes than usual for this time of year?

Answer: Across the country, the number of homes with price reductions is on the rise. Zillow recently reported that nearly one in four homes listed on its website had a price cut in April. The markets seeing the highest rate of price cuts tend to be markets that saw the most significant appreciation during the COVID era housing boom like Phoenix, Tampa, Nashville, and Salt Lake City.

Price Cuts Increasing Across the DMV

The chart below shows the number of price cuts per month in the DC area. On one hand, it’s alarming to see the sharp increase in price cuts this year compared to previous years – it’s an accurate reflection of how the market has shifted this year. On the other hand, the first six months of the last three years (’22-’24) have been exceptionally strong markets that can make a normal market appear weak in comparison.

What Does the Summer Hold?

If you look at the pattern of price reductions through May compared to previous years and look at the seasonal pattern of higher rates of price reductions from June through October, one can easily forecast a significant rate of price reductions in the DMV on the horizon.

That may very well be our future, but it’s also possible that we’ve seen sellers in the DMV cutting prices faster than usual this year because of the onslaught of news about federal workforce and spending cuts. This could mean that spending cuts have been more front-loaded than usual, and the rate of price reductions may slow down (but will remain higher than previous years).

Will Seller Optimism Drop?

So far, sellers in Northern VA and the DC Metro have been optimistic going to market, with the average asking price of new listings up 1-4% year-over-year each of the last three months, per the chart below.

 

The chart below shows that some of those sellers have been rewarded for their optimism, with the average price of homes under contract with an asking price 1-5% more year-over-year (TBD what these properties actually sell for, but likely close to asking price).

On the flip side, the chart below shows us that many sellers are being punished for being overly optimistic, with the average list price of homes sitting on the market in April down 7% and 12% in the DC Metro and Northern VA, respectively.

If sellers become less optimistic and start going to market with lower asking prices, that may lead to fewer price reductions through the summer.

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

Upcoming (pre-market) ERG Listings, Details and Additional Listings Available by Request*

  • Reston – 4BR/3.5BA/3,000 sqft – End-unit townhouse (1993) – Hollow Timber Ct Reston VA 20194
  • Highland Park/Overlee Knolls – 6BR/5.5BA/5,000+ sqft – Detached Single Family (2025) – 22nd Rd N Arlington VA 22205
  • Rosslyn – 3BR/2.5A/2,400 sqft – Condo (2022) – 1781 N Pierce St Arlington VA 22209
  • Arlington Ridge/Aurora Hills – 3BR/2.5BA/2,450sqft – Detached Single Family (1961) – S Grove St Arlington VA 22202
  • Tara Leeway Heights – 7BR/7.2BA/8,000sqft/half acre/pool – Detached Single Family (2026) – 1500 N Harrison St Arlington VA 22205

Arts Focus: Free Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series launches with the Arlington Players’ 75th Anniversary Musical

By Sponsor
1/4

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

Arlington’s beloved Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series returns Friday, June 6, with a special launch: a two-week run of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” presented by The Arlington Players (TAP), celebrating their 75th anniversary season. Performances take place June 6–8 and June 13–15 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 2:00 p.m.).

Pack a picnic, bring friends, and enjoy the arts al fresco at this free outdoor series tucked beneath the trees in Arlington’s Lubber Run Park.

The regular concert schedule resumes Friday, June 20, with the Afrobeat rhythms of Elikeh. The Beatles tribute band “All You Need Is Beatles” performs Saturday, June 21, followed by a joyful, family-friendly show from Culture Queen on Sunday, June 22 at 11:00 a.m. (co-presented with Arlington Public Library).

The Arlington Players (TAP) has entertained our community since 1951 with an array of musicals and plays ranging from contemporary comedy to Shakespearean classics and from Rodgers & Hammerstein to Sondheim. TAP also provides an environment for all members of the Arlington community to explore, learn, and become involved in the elements of stagecraft through arts education programs.

Since 1969, generations of Arlingtonians have gathered at the Lubber Run Amphitheater for unforgettable summer performances. This year’s lineup continues that legacy with a diverse mix of music, theater, and cultural celebration — all free and open to the public.

June 2025 Schedule Highlights:

  • June 6–8 and 13–15
    “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” – Presented by The Arlington Players
    (Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.; Sundays at 2:00 p.m.)
  • Friday, June 20 – 8:00 p.m.
    Elikeh – Afrobeat
  • Saturday, June 21 – 8:00 p.m.
    “All You Need Is Beatles” – Rock tribute
  • Sunday, June 22 – 11:00 a.m.
    Culture Queen – Family performance (with Arlington Public Library)
  • Friday, June 27 – 8:00 p.m.
    Bobby Thompson Trio – Blues guitar and vocals
  • Saturday, June 28 – 8:00 p.m.
    Cecily – Soul-jazz vocals
  • Sunday, June 29 – 6:00 p.m.
    Arlington Philharmonic – Orchestral performance

This is just the beginning. The Free Lubber Run Amphitheater Summer Concert Series continues through August with performances for all ages and tastes. Lubber Run Amphitheater is located at 200 N. Columbus St., Arlington, Va. 22203. All shows are free. For the full schedule and updates, visit www.ArlingtonArts.org.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: May 21, 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 May 19, there are 224 detached homes, 37 townhouses and 210 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 53 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

923 20TH 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.

Ask Eli: Looking for a big yard in Arlington?

By Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Eli and his team in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach him directly at Eli@EliResidential.com.

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.

Question: We are having trouble finding a lot big enough for our family in Arlington. How difficult is it to find a home with an acre or more?

Answer: Before you jump into an Arlington home search hoping to find an acre of land walking distance to the Metro, it’s important to understand what size lots you can expect to find on the market. I reviewed sales of detached single-family homes in Arlington, going back to 2022, and summarized that data below.

The data is based on total square footage of a lot, including the land the home sits on. Most people think about lots in terms of acres, so here’s a quick conversion key:

Arlington Lot Size Highlights (sales since 2022):

  • Average lot = 8,336 SqFt
  • Median lot = 7,214 SqFt
  • A ¼ acre lot is in the top 85% largest lots
  • 1.1% of lots had ½ acre or more
  • Just four homes sold with 1+ acre lots and none with more than 1.75 acres

Most Common Lot Size is 6,000-8,000 SqFt

The charts below show the breakdown of lot sizes for all homes sold in Arlington since 2022. 70% of homes sit on lots with 5,000-9,999 sqft and 39% of homes had a lot size of 6,000-7,999 sqft.

The Largest Lots are in North Arlington

The smallest lots are in South Arlington and along the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor with larger lots found further north. 22213 is the only zip code with a majority of lots being over 10,000 sqft.

Below you can see a distribution of lot sizes by zip code, first as a percentage of sales in each zip code and then by number of sales in each zip code.

If any readers would like to see pricing data for certain lot sizes, I’m happy to pull that for you, just send me an email.

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

Upcoming (pre-market) ERG Listings, Details and Additional Listings Available by Request

  • Ballston – 5BR/3.5BA/4,000 sqft – Detached Single Family (2004) – N Wakefield St Arlington VA 22203
  • Reston – 4BR/3.5BA/3,000 sqft – End-unit townhouse (1993) – Hollow Timber Ct Reston VA 20194
  • Rosslyn – 3BR/2.5BA/2,400 sqft – Condo (2022) – 1781 N Pierce St Arlington VA 22209
  • Arlington Ridge/Aurora Hills – 3BR/2.5BA/2,450sqft – Detached Single Family (1961) – S Grove St Arlington VA 22202
  • Ballston – 2BR/1BA/919sqft – Condo (2005) – 1001 N Randolph St Arlington VA 22201
  • Tara Leeway Heights – 7BR/7.2BA/8,000sqft/half acre/pool – Detached Single Family (2026) – 1500 N Harrison St Arlington VA 22205
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