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Live Fairfax: Corcoran welcomes first affiliate in the Greater Washington, DC metropolitan area

Published November 22, 2024 at 5:00PM | Updated December 3, 2024 at 2:59PM

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Corcoran | McEnearney.

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you — McEnearney Associates | Middleburg Real Estate | Atoka Properties has joined forces with Corcoran, one of the most esteemed names in real estate. We are now Corcoran McEnearney!

What does this mean for you? It’s simple: the same trusted service and local expertise you’ve always relied on, now paired with the global reach, cutting-edge resources, and industry-leading innovation that Corcoran brings us.

This partnership enhances our ability to serve you better, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing. With Corcoran’s renowned network and our unwavering commitment to your success, we’re confident this marks a new chapter of possibilities for your real estate journey.

If you have any questions about this exciting change or how it benefits you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to continuing to provide you with exceptional service as Corcoran McEnearney.

More Than 40 Years of Exceptional Service

The first McEnearney Associates office opened in 1980 with John McEnearney at the helm, whose personal commitment to offer best-in-class service with the industry’s best agents set the foundation for the company. More than 40 years later, the McEnearney name has continued to uphold this foundation while steadily growing to include more than 420 agents and 40 support staff across 13 offices, located throughout Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia.

Today, Maureen McEnearney Dunn, daughter of John McEnearney, is the President of Corcoran McEnearney, having been a part of the company since its inception and holding her current position since 2007. Throughout her tenure, Dunn has brought visionary leadership to grow the firm sevenfold, transforming its operations and expanding its market presence significantly.

Under her leadership, the firm has recruited top talent and fostered success amongst the agents, while focusing on marketing, education, training, relocation, and technology to keep the company ahead of the curve. Deeply committed to industry and community involvement, she has served on the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS® Ethics and Professional Standards Committees and has led hundreds of key fundraising initiatives including the Capital Area Food Bank, Arlington Food Assistance Center, At Home in Alexandria, SCAN, Act for Alexandria, Share of McLean, and more.

“The authentic culture and dedication to excellence with the Corcoran^® brand has always aligned seamlessly with the core values of McEnearney,” said Dunn. “Corcoran’s robust marketing strategies and expansive network can help equip our agents to deliver even greater care and support to both new and loyal clients. We are energized by the immense growth potential this partnership brings, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the exceptional service that has defined our company for 45 years.”

Depth of Industry Leadership

As a strategic growth merger, McEnearney Associates joined forces with Middleburg Real Estate/Atoka Properties in June 2023. Having led successful careers as agents, Peter Pejacsevich and Scott Buzzelli founded Atoka Properties and acquired Middleburg Real Estate in 2008. Initially drawn to Middleburg, Virginia, for its strong heritage and deep history, the team channeled their personal interest and successful business into establishing a premier brokerage serving Virginia and West Virginia’s countryside and beyond.

Now operating as Principal & Chief Operating Officer of Corcoran McEnearney, Pejacsevich brings his strong business acumen and global perspective to continue driving the company’s presence and growth throughout the greater Washington, D.C. metro region. His extensive industry experience in luxury sales and track record of success provide him with a profound understanding of every level within the business. This deep-rooted expertise allows him to drive innovation and enhance overall operational efficiency, ultimately contributing to the firm’s continued long-term success.

“This partnership has been a natural fit from the beginning,” said Pejacsevich. “The Corcoran^®brand’s genuine spirit resonated with us – values of service, integrity, market expertise, and neighborhood fluency, affirming that together we could achieve something even more impactful in our market. While maintaining independence, we now gain access to cutting-edge technology, refined marketing strategies, an expanded network, and enhanced resources.”

Joining Dunn and Pejacsevich on Corcoran McEnearney’s executive leadership team is David Howell, Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer. Howell is a recognized industry leader who, among other distinctions, is a member of the Hall of Fame for both Virginia REALTORS^® and the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS^®, where he also formerly served as President.

The Corcoran McEnearney executive team also includes Scott Buzzelli, Chief Strategy Officer; Jeanne Choi, Chief Marketing Officer; Kristen Doczkat, Chief Financial Officer, and a strategic growth team. Complementing this executive team, Corcoran McEnearney is further supported by five exceptional Managing Brokers, skilled corporate department leads, and dedicated office managers.

“We are thrilled to welcome Corcoran McEnearney, an impressive and well-respected company with a well-earned reputation for excellence and integrity,” said Stephanie Anton, President of Corcoran Affiliates. “By joining forces, our network is gaining invaluable expertise and presence in a major world market, while providing the tools and resources to further strengthen Corcoran McEnearney’s high standards in client service and agent support.”

Get ready for Winterfest!

By Sponsor

Published November 21, 2024 at 10:30AM

Winterfest is back for three magical days at Reston’s Brown’s Chapel Park, and it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

This three-day event returns December 5-7 and promises to be bigger and even more festive than last year’s event.

Winterfest features a half-mile Light Up the Park walk, featuring thousands of holiday lights in various scenes and displays along the trail through the park. The event also features firepits with s’mores, holiday vendors, live musical performances, and plenty of food and drink options, as well as the Grinch’s Village and the chance to meet Santa — all in one festive event right in your own community.

A special part of the Winterfest celebration is the Enchanted Forest, which returns this year. The Enchanted Forest is a grove of festively decorated holiday trees — each one sponsored by a local business, non-profit, community group or family/individual. Not only are the trees unique and creative, but also at the conclusion of Winterfest, each tree is donated to a family in need in the Reston area to help make their holiday celebrations a bit brighter.

In its inaugural year, a total of 50 trees were donated to local families, and the goal is to support even more this year. There are still several opportunities for local organizations to help by sponsoring a tree.

Visit the Enchanted Forest sponsor form to learn how your group can be a part of sharing the holiday spirit this season.

Winterfest is free to Reston Association members; non-member tickets range from $8 for children to $18 for adults and includes everything from the Light Up the Park walk to visits with Santa and more. A variety of food vendors will be on hand, and our Vendor Village is the perfect place to explore and perhaps find that unique holiday gift to round out your shopping list.

Registration is required! Visit the Winterfest page on Reston Association’s website to secure your spot to be a part of the magic today.

How can Horizon Business Brokers help you?

By Sponsor

Published November 15, 2024 at 10:30AM

Your next opportunity is just on the horizon!

At Horizon Business Brokers, we specialize in navigating complex transactions, ensuring smooth negotiations, and maximizing value for our clients.

Founded in 2006 by Dustin Zeher, Horizon Business Brokers is based in Northern Virginia. Dustin is a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) and President of the Maryland Business Brokers Association. He is also a board member of the Carolinas-Virginia Business Brokers Association. Horizon has sold nearly 400 businesses for business owners from all parts of the D.C. metro area.

What is a Business Broker?

Business brokers act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers of businesses and work to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes for both parties. They are vital in the sale and acquisition process, offering expertise in valuation, negotiation, and transaction management while confidentially connecting buyers and sellers of privately held businesses.

Today business brokers have access to advanced technology and use sophisticated tools like data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide more accurate market insights and valuations, helping clients make informed decisions. They manage complex deal terms and ensure that the process is smooth and efficient, ultimately helping sellers maximize their returns while also fostering positive relationships with buyers to ensure they are getting a great business at a fair price.

Frequently a business seller wants to maintain a level of confidentiality, so hiring a broker enables them to maintain discretion when sharing information as the broker will be the first point of contact during the sale process.

The broker will acquire information from potential buyers prior to releasing any sensitive details about the business that is listed for sale to ensure buyers are professionally and financially qualified and to obtain their confidentiality. A business broker also creates sales and marketing materials to highlight the business and its strengths and opportunities for growth, while also managing the marketing and advertising efforts of the business.

Using a number of different platforms, a business broker will reach out to their internal database of buyers as well as their professional contacts to let them know the business is for sale, all in a confidential and effective manner. When using a business broker, there is a higher probability of a sale versus trying to sell the business on your own, and more often than not, a broker is able to sell the business for a higher price in a shorter time period.

An overwhelming majority of small business sales are private transactions so there is not a publicly accessible database of final sale prices from recent years. A broker will be able to provide a business owner with a reasonable asking price based on business performance, the value of any tangible assets, intellectual property or patents, goodwill, and inventory. Many brokers offer business valuation services to determine a fair market value and the most probable selling price of a business.

If an offer is accepted, the broker will assist the buyer in conducting due diligence to verify that what has been presented in the offering materials is accurate, and to ensure that the seller is only sharing information that is absolutely necessary and will not be detrimental to the operation and sale of the business. A knowledgeable broker will also be able to provide guidance for working with landlords to transition the lease to a new party, if needed, and to pre-qualify the business for an SBA backed loan to help expedite the financing if necessary. An experienced broker will also likely have established relationships with attorneys, accountants, and bankers who may be involved at various phases of the sale process to assist both the buyer and the seller.

Before a business owner decides to engage with a broker, they should do research and interview multiple brokers to see which one best fits their goals. The average time to sell a business is roughly 6-12 months, but there are times when it takes longer for a variety of factors so you will want to make sure your broker is someone you trust and will enjoy working with as you navigate the process.

Whether you’re selling your business or looking to grow through acquisition, buying your first business, or having your business valued, partnering with a reputable business brokerage firm can make all the difference.

Dustin Zeher, CBI
Founder and Principal Broker/M&A Advisor
Horizon Business Brokers, LLC.
Office: 703-910-7384
Cell: 571-437-5135
dustin@horizonbrokers.com
www.horizonbrokers.com

Contact Horizon Business Brokers Today!

A holiday ready home starts with ToiletKing — easy and affordable toilet replacement services

By Sponsor

Published November 14, 2024 at 12:00PM | Updated November 15, 2024 at 2:04PM

As the holidays approach, homeowners begin their annual preparations — cleaning, decorating, meal planning, and organizing guest rooms. Amid all the excitement and planning, one key aspect often gets overlooked: the bathroom, particularly the toilet.

Whether it’s hosting a large family dinner or entertaining friends for holiday parties, the last thing any homeowner wants is an embarrassing plumbing problem such as leaking, clogging, slow filling, or visibly aging toilets. That’s where ToiletKing steps in with their fast and affordable process for replacing toilets in under an hour, ensuring homes are holiday ready from top to bottom.

In response to these potential problems, ToiletKing, a Virginia-based home service company founded in Loudoun County, is offering a unique solution — replacing homeowners’ toilets in under one hour. This service is designed to be both fast and affordable, addressing a range of common toilet issues that often arise at inconvenient times.

Addressing Common Toilet Problems Before the Holidays

During busy holiday gatherings, the bathroom, and particularly the toilet, is one of the most frequently used spaces in a home. Toilets that are aging, malfunctioning or have a weak flush can quickly become a source of stress. Some of the most common issues include:

Clogging: Frequent clogs are not only a nuisance but can also cause significant embarrassment when hosting guests.
Leaking: Toilets that leak water at the base or from the tank can lead to costly water damage and increased utility bills.
Running Toilets: Toilets that continuously run can waste gallons of water each day, driving up water bills and creating unnecessary noise.
Slow Refills: Toilets that take too long to refill after flushing can be frustrating and cause inconvenience during busy gatherings.
Cracked or Discolored Toilets: Toilets that are cracked or have visible yellowing due to age or hard water stains can diminish the overall appearance of a bathroom.

Replacing problematic toilets before the holidays is a proactive measure that can help avoid potential inconveniences for homeowners and their guests.

Fast and Efficient Service

ToiletKing has developed a process that allows them to replace toilets quickly and efficiently, completing the installation in less than one hour. This expedited service is designed to help homeowners avoid long waits or interruptions to their holiday plans.

Christos Karageorgos, Founder of ToiletKing, explains the company’s approach: “Our process focuses on streamlining the toilet replacement experience. We’ve structured our service so that we can replace any standard toilet within an hour and with precision, minimizing disruption to homeowners. We understand that during the holidays, time is of the essence, and we aim to make the process as quick and stress-free as possible.”

Affordability and Transparency

In addition to speed, ToiletKing emphasizes affordability and transparent pricing. The company aims to provide homeowners with an affordable solution for upgrading their toilets without compromising on the quality of service and materials. All pricing is provided upfront, with no hidden fees or unexpected costs, which can be especially important during a season when homeowners are often juggling multiple expenses.

The company’s competitive pricing, combined with a high level of expertise, has positioned them as a convenient option for those seeking to upgrade their toilets in preparation for holiday gatherings. The company’s service is designed to cater to both those who need last-minute solutions or who want to replace an aging toilet before it becomes a larger issue.

How ToiletKing’s Process Works

ToiletKing’s replacement process is simple: homeowners visit the website and select a toilet from one of the company’s four all-inclusive toilet replacement packages: Basic, Standard, Deluxe, or The Kings Throne. Each package, while varying in price, includes all the same excellent service: choice of toilet, delivery, professional installation, and responsible removal of your old toilet. The company also offers a range of bidets and an affordable extended service warranty for those customers who would like additional peace of mind.

ToiletKing offers a range of high-quality and high-performance brands such as Kohler, Toto, American Standard, and Swiss Madison that fit seamlessly into any bathroom style, ensuring functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. With ToiletKing’s affordable and efficient toilet replacement service, you can easily check one item off the list when it comes to preparing your home for the holidays.

Visit toiletkingva.com to see the company’s full selection of toilet models and bidets and purchase your new toilet today!

Learn More at ToiletKing VA

Legal Insider: What to expect in a security clearance appeal

By Sponsor

Published November 7, 2024 at 12:00PM

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.

By John V. Berry, Esq.

Thoughts on the Security Clearance Appeal Process

Security clearance appeals take place when individuals get denied while applying for a security clearance. They can also occur when an individual with a security clearance has their clearance revoked. Security clearance appeals can have important ramifications for your career.

In many cases, losing a security clearance can result in losing your position. We represent government contractors, federal employees and military personnel in security clearance appeals.

Each Agency’s Appeal Procedures are Different

Every federal agency handles security clearance appeals differently. While the right to a security clearance appeal comes from Executive Order 12968, agencies have developed their own policies in implementation.

Some agencies, like the Department of Defense and Department of Energy, incorporate an administrative judge hearing process. These types of appeals are essentially administrative court proceedings, with the government represented by an attorney. Other agencies, like the Department of Homeland Security, incorporates a written response and personal appearance process, which is less formal. Many of the Intelligence Community agencies provide the opportunity to submit a written response and meet with adjudicators during a personal appearance.

While there are many different procedures for security clearance appeals, there are many things in common.

Common Considerations in Security Clearance Appeals

While there may be different procedures by different federal agencies in the security clearance appeals process, there are many similar considerations. These include:

Obtain Legal Advice Early: Obtaining legal representation early in the security clearance appeals process is extremely important. Too often we see security clearance appeals that have gone too far in the process before an attorney is hired, which often lowers the odds of ultimate success. Ideally, individuals with security concerns should meet with an experienced security clearance lawyer before submitting their initial security clearance forms. If not then, it is important to have a security clearance lawyer help them respond to a Statement of Response (SOR) or Notice of Intent to Revoke a Security Clearance.
Obtain Critical Documentation: Many individuals are not aware and not advised about the level of detail and documentation needed to present a strong security clearance appeal. Depending on the particular case, we may need to obtain government records, performance evaluations, documents that address the security concerns, witness statements, awards, character letters and other mitigating documentation to present the best possible security clearance appeal.
Draft a Comprehensive Written Response to the Security Concerns: In many cases individuals handling their own initial responses don’t realize the level of detail needed in their written response to address the security concerns. Some individuals write in “I admit” on the SOR or prepare a short paragraph responding to the concerns. A response, to be successful, must give a complete and detailed explanation about the security concerns raised by the Government. These responses tend to run 10-14 pages and along with the exhibits attached can run 25 to 40 pages. Additionally, the response has to provide detailed information about who you are as a person. The Whole-Person Concept, an overview of you and your experience and life is critical to help resolve a security clearance appeal.
Be Fully Prepared for the Administrative Judge Hearing or Personal Appearance: When the time comes for an administrative judge hearing or personal appearance on the security clearance appeal it is critical to be prepared. A security clearance attorney can assist you in preparing for these processes. You will want to be able to answer questions clearly about the security concerns, your background and other issues. Additionally, in administrative judge proceedings you will want to be prepared for a government attorney’s cross-examination. For personal appearances, you will want to be prepared to address critical questions raised by the reviewing official.

Contact Us

Each security clearance appeal is unique, so individuals are advised to have counsel advise and represent them as early in the process as possible. If you need assistance with a security clearance issue, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.

RealtyPeople: A local real estate startup breaking the mold

By Sponsor

Published November 7, 2024 at 10:30AM

RealtyPeople promises full-service representation while only charging $500 plus 1%.

Over the past year, the residential real estate industry has undergone major changes.

In late 2023, the National Association of Realtors and major brokerages were subject to legal action, resulting in implementation of new rules requiring more transparency in commissions.

According to Michael Gorman, the founder of RealtyPeople, this has created a desire among consumers for a more value-oriented service offering in residential real estate brokerage.

Mr. Gorman is a former senior executive at Long & Foster and has also conducted more than $2 billion in real estate transactions as one of the top agents in Northern Virginia. His new company, RealtyPeople, provides full-service representation for buyers and sellers at a cost of $500 plus 1% of the home’s sales price. According to Mr. Gorman, this puts more money into clients’ pockets, given that prevailing commission rates are closer to 3%.

Mr. Gorman is often asked how the company can make money when charging such low fees. He asserts that the key driver is volume. Most conventional real estate agents only complete a few real estate transactions per year, and that necessitates that they earn substantial commissions on each transaction. Mr. Gorman’s model is based on agents completing multiple transactions each month. Even when charging low commissions, he and his agents earn more than most agents at other brokerages.

Mr. Gorman doesn’t see RealtyPeople as a competitor to the area’s larger brokerages. In his view, conventional agents will attract clients based on strong personal relationships and specific neighborhood expertise. On those transactions, many clients will see value in paying 3% for representation.

But for those buyers and sellers who may consider transacting without representation, who are looking for a lower fee alternative to other brokerages, or simply wish to maximize their proceeds, RealtyPeople could be a compelling choice.

Visit www.realtypeople.com for additional information on the company’s approach and pricing.

Contact RealtyPeople Today!

Robinson at One University: Open House this Saturday, November 9

By Sponsor

Published November 6, 2024 at 10:30AM

Discover Robinson at One University at the Open House this Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where you will find all the comforts of home.

Situated in the heart of Fairfax County, Robinson at One University apartments offer an idyllic and inviting living experience for those seeking comfort and convenience. Our community features a range of spacious studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments designed with your lifestyle in mind.

Each apartment home features wood-style flooring, modern two-tone cabinetry, granite countertops, GE ENERGY STAR® appliances and in-home washer/dryer. Located near George Mason University, major employers, and extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, our location promises an unmatched living experience.

With amenities like a fully equipped fitness center, a cozy club room for gatherings, a pet spa, BBQ area, tot lot, and picturesque gardens and green spaces, Robinson at One University is the perfect place to call home. Explore our pet-friendly community today. Call 571-786-6122 or schedule a tour now and embrace a competitively priced lifestyle of comfort and convenience!

Robinson at One University participates in a housing program that offers more modest monthly rental rates based on Maximum Household Income limitations, according to household size. Interested in finding out if you might qualify to live at Robinson? Click here, choose “Do I Qualify”, and follow the provided directions.**

*Conditions apply, subject to change, ask for details. **This is just a guide as to whether or not you might qualify, additional information/documentation is required.

Schedule a Tour Today

Discover affordable, convenient, senior living at Belmont at One University!

By Sponsor

Published November 5, 2024 at 10:30AM

Please join us for an Open House on November 9, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. to discover Belmont at One University where extraordinary living meets unrivaled convenience.

Our community offers a range of 1-2 bedroom apartments featuring spacious layouts and modern amenities — and only one household member must be 62+ to live here! Enjoy large kitchens with custom cabinetry, GE® ENERGY STAR appliances, granite countertops, and wood-style flooring.

Experience the convenience of in-apartment washers/dryers and complimentary basic Wi-Fi. Indulge in our fitness center, club room for gatherings, and beautiful green spaces for relaxation. Even better, Belmont is pet friendly with no breed restrictions for dogs.

Located in Fairfax County, near George Mason University and major employers, residents enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, parks, and entertainment venues. Coming soon, we’ll be providing a twice weekly shuttle to a local shopping center. Discover the enriching lifestyle awaiting you at Belmont at One University. Call 571-786-6146 or schedule a tour today and live the way you’ve always wanted.

Belmont at One University participates in a housing program that offers more modest monthly rental rates based on Maximum Household Income limitations, according to household size. Interested in finding out if you might qualify to live at Belmont? Click here, choose “Do I Qualify”, and follow the provided directions.**

*Conditions apply, subject to change, ask for details. **This is just a guide as to whether or not you might qualify, additional information/documentation is required.

Schedule a Tour Today

Robinson at One University: Open House on Saturday, October 19

By Sponsor

Published October 16, 2024 at 10:30AM

Move in today and pay no rent until December 1, 2024 on select apartments*

Please join us for an Open House this Saturday, October 19 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. to discover Robinson at One University where you will find all the comforts of home!

Each apartment home features wood-style flooring, modern two-tone cabinetry, granite countertops, GE Energy Star® appliances and in-home washer/dryer. Located near George Mason University, major employers, and extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, our location promises an unmatched living experience.

With amenities like a fully equipped fitness center, a cozy club room for gatherings, a pet spa, BBQ area, tot lot, and picturesque gardens and green spaces, Robinson at One University is the perfect place to call home. Explore our pet-friendly community today. Schedule a tour now and embrace a competitively priced lifestyle of comfort and convenience!

Robinson at One University participates in a housing program that offers more modest monthly rental rates based on Maximum Household Income limitations, according to household size. Interested in finding out if you might qualify to live at Belmont? Click Here, choose “Do I Qualify”, and follow the provided directions.**

*Conditions apply, subject to change, ask for details. **This is just a guide as to whether or not you might qualify, additional information/documentation is required.

Schedule a Tour Today!

Legal Review: When You Should Not Make Arrest Records Public

By Sponsor

Published September 12, 2024 at 4:30AM | Updated September 26, 2024 at 4:52PM

Arrest records, also known as “rap sheets” or “criminal records,” contain the details of an individual’s arrest and conviction history. Federal, state, and local authorities save and use the information for several purposes.

Your state law and the contexts of your arrest will determine the record’s availability to the public.

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