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Experience convenience, comfort, and culture at Ravel and Royale

By Sponsor

Published August 20, 2024 at 12:30PM

Discover where inspiration lives…

Ravel and Royale is a duo of naturally inspired apartment communities, where a truly balanced lifestyle takes form.

Grab a carefree lease on life and live nestled among lush landscaping with an incomparable front yard — Strathmore Square.

Explore our greenery, paths, and trails with proximity to Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park and the Strathmore lawns. Relax in a brand-new sophisticated residence with European finishes, generously landscaped terraces, entertainment-focused living spaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows for light-filled rooms overlooking the park. Let our incredible management team take care of the details so you can enjoy your new home stress-free.

Whether you’re absorbed in a new book, enjoying a refreshing swim, or lounging in the sun under the cool shade of the umbrellas, find serenity and relaxation at your on-site pool. Nourish your mind, body, and spirit in your dry sauna, wellness rooms, two-story fitness center with separate yoga space, and our uniquely landscaped courtyards.

Form deeper connections with loved ones as you host memorable dinner parties on your spacious private terrace or within our shared luxury dining spaces, presentation kitchens, and lavish lounges.

The green stop on the redline at the Grosvenor Strathmore Metro Station presents an opportunity for stress-free luxury living inspired by nature in an art-inspired community. Enjoy access to more, including the nightlife and shopping destinations at Pike and Rose and Downtown Bethesda, plus all the benefits of membership at Strathmore, the amazing shows at The Music Center, exhibits at The Mansion, summer concerts and outdoor art on the Strathmore Lawn and Sculpture Garden, and our own Strathmore Square music and community events.

Through a one-of-a-kind partnership with Strathmore, residents receive exclusive and diverse Strathmore programming. Enjoy bi-annual sessions with a Curator Concierge, culturally rich performances, and early offerings for premier seats.

Close to Rockville Pike and I-495/I-270, yet tucked away in a neighborhood to call your own home to world-class arts and culture — this is Ravel and Royale, where style, connectivity, and serenity meet.

ROYALE: Social, lively, and better together

With more to see and more to do, these artful residences are accompanied by extensive amenity spaces, opening the door to exploration and neighborly connection.

RAVEL: Spacious, quiet, and thoughtfully composed

These curated residences offer a private oasis of sophisticated design details, seamlessly woven into a lively arts-inspired community.

Two beautiful variations. One Incredible location. Leasing Now!

Schedule a Tour Today!

Legal Review: Norfolk Southern Faces Backlash Over $600M Settlement

By Sponsor

Published August 20, 2024 at 4:30AM | Updated September 26, 2024 at 3:58PM

Ohio is filing a lawsuit against a rail giant, Norfolk Southern, over the freight train derailment incident, which caused half the East Palestine village to get evacuated because the train was carrying toxic chemicals. The accident or derailment was called a long string.

The 85-count lawsuit, which was filed in a federal court, demands Norfolk be held financially responsible for the incident that caused the release of about 1 million gallons of hazardous substances and endangered the lives of the villagers in East Palestine and Ohio’s natural resources.

Live Fairfax: 5 underrated neighborhoods in Fairfax County

By Sponsor

Published August 16, 2024 at 12:45PM | Updated August 26, 2024 at 10:57AM

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.

Are you considering making a move to or within Fairfax? 

Today, I’m excited to share five of the most underrated communities in Fairfax County that deserve your attention. These hidden gems offer unique advantages, whether you’re looking for a strong sense of community, prime location, or simply a place to call home.

1. Cobbdale — A Hidden Gem in the City of Fairfax

Cobbdale is truly a treasure tucked away in the heart of the City of Fairfax. One of its standout features is its non-HOA regulated environment, yet it still has a vibrant civic association that fosters a close-knit community. From Easter egg hunts to Halloween parades and park cleanups, Cobbdale is where neighbors come together. The variety of single-family homes — from colonials to split-levels — means there’s something here for everyone. Plus, with its unbeatable access to major interstates like 66, 50, and 495, getting around is a breeze.

2. University Square — The Best of Both Worlds

Imagine your new home coming with a membership to a community pool — that’s exactly what you get in University Square. Located just outside the City of Fairfax in Fairfax County, this neighborhood combines the best of both worlds. With George Mason University nearby and easy access to major roads like 66 and Chain Bridge Road, it’s a prime location for those who value convenience. I’ve sold several homes in this area, and let me tell you, people don’t leave! They build lifelong connections, making it an ideal place to raise a family.

3. Farrcroft — Luxury Living in Downtown Fairfax

Farrcroft is one of my personal favorites, especially if you’re looking for luxury living. These stunning colonial homes are just a short walk from the quaint downtown Fairfax area, offering you the charm of a small-town living with all the conveniences of the city. Surrounded by parks managed by the City of Fairfax, Farrcroft provides a serene, park-like environment while still being close to major highways like 66 and Chain Bridge Road. The sense of community here is palpable, with long-time residents taking pride in maintaining their beautiful properties.

4. Lakewood Estates — A Water Lover’s Dream in Springfield

If you’re anything like me and love being near water, Lakewood Estates in Springfield should be at the top of your list. Nestled among three lakes — Tite, Burke Lake, and Huntsman Lake — this community offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to outdoor activities. The school pyramid here is highly sought after, making it a great choice for families. When I sold a home here, the military family who had to move was heartbroken to leave, which speaks volumes about the tight-knit community they found. And with easy access to 395, 495, and 95, you’re just a stone’s throw from the city, Alexandria, and beyond.

5. Crosspointe — The Community Lover’s Haven in Fairfax Station

While Crosspointe might not be the best-kept secret, it’s still an underrated gem that deserves a mention. With over 1,400 homes, you’re sure to find your people in this vibrant community. Crosspointe offers an array of amenities, including six playgrounds, two pools, a community center, and tennis courts that even cater to pickleball enthusiasts. The proximity to Fountainhead Regional Park is a huge plus for biking and trail running fans, and the community’s own trails offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun. The homes here are spacious and architecturally distinct, making them perfect for growing families.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through five of Fairfax County’s most underrated communities. There’s so much more to explore in Fairfax, and I can’t wait to dig deeper with you in our next Live Fairfax adventure!

5 Underrated Neighborhoods in Fairfax County

Reno of the Month: Maximizing small spaces

By Sponsor

Published August 15, 2024 at 1:30PM

Written By: Synergy Design & Construction

In today’s world, maximizing small spaces has become a necessity. With the housing shortage and higher interest rates, many of us find ourselves in apartments, condos, or homes where space is at a premium. But limited space doesn’t mean limited potential!

By understanding what you’re working with, choosing the right furniture, and employing clever solutions, you can transform even the tiniest of areas into functional, stylish havens.

Understanding Your Space

Evaluate the layout: Stand at the entrance of the room and really take in the layout. Look past existing furniture and decor that may influence you and determine if there are any awkward corners or underutilized nooks that could be optimized.

Define your needs: Think about what elements are essential for your lifestyle and prioritize what you need most. Is it a home office, mudroom, or space to exercise (or both)? Once you know your needs, planning becomes much easier.

This home features a mudroom with built-in seating, plenty of storage, and behind the slat wall — an exercise room!

Space Saving Furniture

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Legal Insider: When to hire a security clearance lawyer?

By Sponsor

Published August 15, 2024 at 12:30PM

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

Our lawyers represent federal employees, government contractors, and military personnel in security clearance cases. One of the most frequent questions they ask is when they should hire a security clearance lawyer.

The usual answer that we give is that clearance holders and applicants should consult with a knowledgeable lawyer as soon as they anticipate having security clearance issues. It is generally easier to fix security clearance problems (or avoid them) as early in the process as possible.

Most individuals have a good sense as to whether or not they may have a security concern (e.g., drug use, financial issues, accurate completion of forms) as they apply for positions or when they fill out security clearance forms like the e-QIP, SF-86 and/or different versions of the SF-85. Sometimes, individuals don’t consider how much a potential security issue can affect their ability to obtain or retain a security clearance. Having a security clearance attorney advise a person about the process can be invaluable.

Some areas where a security clearance lawyer can help include:

Getting Advice Before Completing Security Clearance Forms

When there is a potential security concern, consulting with a security clearance lawyer can help get ahead of potential security clearance concerns. One of the major problems that we see in the clearance process is when a person comes to us too late for advice to potentially correct a security issue. Getting advice prior to submitting security clearance forms, where there are potential issues, is the best advice.

A security clearance lawyer can go over the risks of applying for a security clearance. They can also help review an individual’s security clearance forms to ensure that they are accurate and responsive. It is critical, if you apply, to disclose all information accurately on these forms. Not doing so can form the basis for a denial based on a lack of candor or honesty.

Consulting/Representation Once the Security Clearance Process Begins

It is also important to have the guidance of a security clearance attorney when the security clearance investigative process begins. At this point, the security clearance forms in such a case have been submitted, and the individual is in the process of being scheduled for an investigative interview. In such a situation, it is important to go over any areas of concern with a client that are likely to come up in the interview. There are often ways of responding during an interview that can clear up any misperceptions by the investigator or perhaps mitigate these concerns in advance.

Again, it is extremely important to be honest and accurate during the clearance interview process and sometimes to even disclose concerns before the interview begins in certain cases. However, getting advice before doing so is crucial.

Representation in Security Clearance Denials or Proposed Denials

An individual will definitely need a security clearance lawyer if they receive a denial or proposed denial of their security clearance. Each federal agency is different, and there are different security clearance processes for each federal agency.

Drafting the Written Response to the Statement of Reasons

The typical first step in the security clearance denial process is to provide a written response to the security concerns (often known as the Statement of Reasons) to the clearance review authority. The first step is to obtain a complete fact set from the individual regarding the security concerns at issue and work to determine the best possible methods of rebutting and/or mitigating them. There is also a whole-person concept evaluation where attorneys can assist individuals in explaining their good character, prior performance, and/or background, which can also help mitigate clearance concerns.

The written response usually takes the form of a written submission by counsel, exhibits, and an affidavit or declaration. It is not uncommon for such responses to be 15 to 70 pages in length, with exhibits. The length of a submission depends on the security concerns at issue and the type of mitigating documents that are available for a case.  

Representation During Personal Appearance or Hearing Stage

While it is very important to provide a detailed written response to security clearance issues, it is even more important to present a thorough oral presentation where the opportunity to do so arises. We almost always recommend that an individual elect an administrative judge hearing or personal appearance in security clearance cases. Each federal agency is different and has different procedures for personal appearances and hearings. We have found that personal appearances/hearings have the greatest potential to reverse negative findings.

Contact Us

When an individual is facing concerns about security clearance issues, it is important to obtain legal advice early. Our law firm advises individuals in the security clearance process. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070. 

Elevate your nonprofit’s risk management: Join the 2024 Risk Summit

By Sponsor

Published August 13, 2024 at 12:30PM

Join the Nonprofit Risk Management Center (NRMC), the leading national nonprofit dedicated to advancing effective risk management within the nonprofit and NGO sectors, as we host the highly anticipated 2024 Risk Summit on October 20 and 21.

This premier event stands as the only risk conference designed exclusively for nonprofit risk professionals, passionate risk champions, and individuals newly tasked with risk responsibilities.

Discover cutting-edge innovation in risk management at the 2024 Risk Summit, which promises a vibrant atmosphere of learning and networking. Held at the prestigious Hyatt Regency Reston, this two-day conference features over 20 engaging educational sessions, in-person networking opportunities, and evening social events, all crafted to foster connections and collaborations among professionals committed to nonprofit missions.

No matter where you are on your risk management journey, you’ll find tailored content to suit your needs. With three distinct tracks — Risk Management Basics, Hands-on How-To sessions, and Advanced Topics in Risk Management — there’s something for every level of expertise.

Session highlights include:

Perfectly Human: Only You Can Manage Artificial Intelligence Risk
From Sketch to Masterpiece: How to Build or Reimagine a Risk Function from Scratch
Risk Lessons from Stand-Up Comedy
Art History: ERM Master Class

Engage with fellow attendees during fast-paced topic-based roundtable discussions (reminiscent of “speed dating” for risk topics), unwind with fellow attendees at a lively reception on Monday evening, and participate in specialized breakouts for Risk Managers & Directors of ERM, In-house and General Counsel, and Finance Leaders on Tuesday morning.

Come with a hunger for knowledge and leave with invaluable insights, innovative ideas, and newfound inspiration to bolster your nonprofit’s risk management initiatives.

Don’t miss out — learn more and register today!

Register Today!

Legal Review: Can You Sue for Pre-existing Medical Conditions Worsened by Personal Injury?

By Sponsor

Published August 13, 2024 at 4:30AM | Updated September 26, 2024 at 3:54PM

As a victim of a personal injury, you should go after the person or entity that caused this ordeal — the pain, the lifestyle changes, the medical visits, and, let’s not forget, the lost wages.

Your case will depend on the evidence you present; the more severe the injuries, the higher the money you get, right?

Explore DC in a truly unforgettable way!

By Sponsor

Published August 12, 2024 at 12:30PM

Explore our great city in a truly unforgettable way!

Join D.C.’s only car-free, social bike ride on Saturday, September 7 with our exclusive 15% OFF discount.

Just click the link or button below and enter promo code LOCALNEWS15 at checkout.

Perfect for first-time riders and avid cyclists alike, DC Bike Ride takes riders past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial for the perfect photo op.

More than just a bike ride, DC Bike Ride features live music and entertainment throughout the entire course to keep riders moving, several well-stocked rest stops to refuel with snacks and beverages, and a celebratory Finish Festival (open to the public) near the Capital Building with plenty of entertainment, beer, and delicious food to enjoy with family and friends.

Visit DC Bike Ride to learn more and browse our range of Ride Passes. Remember to use promo code LOCALNEWS15 to save 15% off a standard Ride Pass.

See you at the start line at the intersection of 12th Street and Constitution Ave., NW on September 7!

Get your ride pass!

Legal Review: Consequences of Personal Injury Lawsuits — What Does the Law Protect?

By Sponsor

Published August 6, 2024 at 4:30AM | Updated September 26, 2024 at 2:56PM

When you are facing a lawsuit, one of the things you will worry about is how much you will lose. The legal process of personal injury lawsuits comes with graver consequences than you can imagine. You risk losing everything from wages and bank accounts to vehicles and real estate.

Therefore, if you are involved in a personal injury lawsuit, you should liaise with your lawyer. Know what the laws governing personal injury lawsuits in your state protect. This article will examine all the assets and properties protected by personal injury law.

Neighborhood Expert: Upcoming changes to real estate

By Sponsor

Published August 5, 2024 at 12:30PM

Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA and D.C. with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or Laura@GuidingYourMove.com.

If you’ve read any headlines over the past few months, you’ve heard there are changes coming to the way homes are bought and sold.

I’ve found that while most people acknowledge they’ve seen the headlines, they don’t actually know or understand what those changes mean. Here’s your summary of upcoming changes to real estate sales.

Traditionally, when a seller signed a listing agreement and hired a real estate broker to sell their home, part of that agreement specified what commission they’d pay their own agent and how much of that commission could be used to pay an agent representing a buyer.

Essentially, making it feel “free” to use a buyer’s agent because the buyer wasn’t paying them directly. That fee to the buyer’s agent was always listed in our MLS (the portal we used to advertise homes for sale that feeds to websites like Zillow, Redfin, or Realtor.com).

Beginning August 14, that commission will no longer be advertised in our MLS. The hope of the lawsuit is to decouple commission, i.e. the buyer will be responsible for paying for their own agent in the form of payment at closing like an additional closing cost, and the seller will be their own agent as well from their proceeds like they always have.

Top 3 Things to Understand

1. I have found most consumers believe the seller will no longer have to pay a buyer’s agent commission. This was always true. They never had to, but most did. They have changed our sales contract and added the buyer’s agent commission as a line item to our contract right under the price offered. So a seller/buyer can negotiate any compensation a seller would contribute towards the buyer’s agent commission. It’s plain and simple and easy to see and calculate. The takeaway: a seller can still choose to contribute money towards a commission for the buyer’s agent. They can also choose to strike it and offer zero or anything in between. It’s all negotiable.

2. You must have a signed agreement in place to see homes with a buyer’s agent. Buyer agency agreements have ALWAYS been required in Virginia. In truth, sometimes we were just a little more relaxed about when we had people sign them, but they were signed before making an offer. Now, you can’t see a home without signing one, even if it’s a short-term agreement or for a single house. That agreement will dictate how much a buyer has agreed to pay their agent, in the event the seller will not pay anything towards their commission. You can, of course, visit open houses without one since you’re not employing an agent to tour with you.

3. Just like anything new, expect the first few months to be rocky as everyone figures out the new normal. Human behavior is a funny thing, so we’ll see how many continue to act as everything is status quo and how many take this opportunity to try out something new. And once we get a few months into this new normal, it’ll just be the new way of doing things.

“Normal” is a relative term. We used to require 20% down on a loan. Now you can buy a house with as little as 3% down (and 0% if you’re a veteran!). Having inspections was “normal” until people started waving them to be more competitive. So too will this new change eventually become normal.

I think in practice, if you have multiple offers, any contract requesting a seller to pay money towards a commission will be at the bottom. I think if a house has been on the market for a while, that seller might be more willing to contribute money towards a commission, but that also might mean they’re less likely to reduce their price.

It’s all going to look different and feel different, but we’ll figure it out. I think experience matters more than ever right now.

If you still have questions — whether you’re in the market to move or not — you can always reach out to me with any questions.

Happy to give you more information if you need it!