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Neighborhood Expert: Home maintenance recommendations during this excessive heat

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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.

This heat wave is hard on our houses, just like it’s hard on our bodies. It’s important to be mindful of home maintenance during this time.

We’ve lost power already this summer and I’m sure it’ll happen again, so please keep these tips in mind to care for your home:

 1. Check your trees! Limbs have been falling on wires, on the street and on homes. The excessive heat and storms are powerful and can cause so much damage. Have an arborist come look at a tree if you’re worried about it, or if it’s leaning, consider the health of the tree and whether to remove it. If it’s dead, definitely remove it. I’ve personally used JL Tree Service in the past with success.

 2. Make sure you have batteries and flashlights. The power goes out at the most inconvenient times, right? We lost power just as my kids were going to bed and we didn’t have enough batteries to power their clocks, their sound machines, plus a flashlight as a night light and you know how much you want your kids to just go to bed right? Batteries will help.

 3. Check your HVAC units. Especially those in the attic. If the insulation isn’t properly working on your ducts, it can cause condensation, which will cause mold eventually if the water drips on drywall or plywood. If there’s any water in your drip pan, it could also indicate there’s an issue which you’ll want to address before it gets worse. I’d also recommend having them serviced and also ask them to check for clogs in the condensation line.

 4. Clear gutters if you haven’t yet. Fast and hard rain will wreak havoc on your gutters if they’re sitting full of leaves you never cleaned out.

 5. On super hot days, close your blinds in rooms you’re not in. It’ll help keep it cooler and help your A/C.

Don’t forget water in the hose will be hot when you first spray it. Trex decks will be hot to the touch. Door handles will burn your hand if they’re in direct sunlight, and cars will be very hot if they’re outside.

Protect yourself and your investments from this heat!

Don’t forget you can always download my free preferred vendor guide.

Living room fan (Photo by Delaney Van on Unsplash)

Listing of the Day: 6470 Purple Aster Lane

By FFXnow.com
1/5

Address: 6470 Purple Aster Lane
Neighborhood: Carter’s Mill
Type: 2 BR, 2 BA villa — 2,183 sq. ft.
Listed: $640,000

Noteworthy: Main level living in Carter’s Mill! 2-bed, 2-bath, amenities & prime location.

Introducing this pristine Bluemont model in the vibrant 55+ community of Carter’s Mill. This end unit home, barely lived in since its completion a year ago, offers luxury and comfort. Located on a level lot, this home backs to trees and the community walking path.

The classic stone facade and inviting covered porch set the stage for a warm welcome. Spanning 2,183 square feet, the main level features a primary suite with an oversized walk-in closet and a spa-like bathroom with a double vanity and state-of-the-art shower. A second bedroom and nearby full bath provide versatility for guests or family members. A flex space awaits your personal touch, ideal for a home office or gym. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, a sprawling island with seating, stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet space, and an oversized pantry. The cozy living room with access to the back patio creates the perfect ambiance for gatherings and everyday living.

Upstairs, a spacious loft offers endless possibilities as a third bedroom, entertainment space, or gathering area. Adjacent conditioned storage provides additional convenience and can be finished to suit your preferences. Residents of Carter’s Mill enjoy access to the Buckland House, boasting 14,000 square feet of community entertainment and activities, including pools, sport courts, walking paths, game/craft rooms, and a fitness center.

Just minutes from shops, dining, entertainment, and major roadways like I-66 and Route 15, Carter’s Mill offers an unparalleled senior living experience in a coveted location.

Listed by:
Claire Belcher — TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
cbelcher@ttrsir.com
(703) 409-6705

Legal Review: The United States Road Accidents Menace

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According to the National Highway and Transport Authority, 9,560 people died in motor vehicle accidents in the first quarter of 2022, a 7% increase compared to 2021, where 8,935 people lost their lives.

Data from the last decade has shown that traffic fatalities are an epidemic plaguing American roads. The trend keeps increasing despite the government’s implementation of measures over the past few years. 

Go to Legal Review: The United States Road Accidents Menace Read more

Walk, Bike, or Roll to Explore Tysons this summer!

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Tysons Get Around Guide

The Tysons Get Around Guide, brought to you by the Tysons Community Alliance, offers a variety of routes designed to showcase the diversity and charm of Tysons.

Walk to explore Tysons and claim your reward by July 31. Summer is here, and the clock is ticking!

Don’t miss the chance to discover all that Tysons has to offer. From bustling urban streets to tranquil parks, each Tysons Get Around Guide route promises to uncover hidden gems and local favorites. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Simply download the Tysons Get Around Guide or access the digital routes on Google Maps and embark on your walk. Track your walk using your smartphone and send us a screenshot of your route via our online form to claim your reward.

Choose your path and complete any designated route before July 31 and earn a $15 gift card*. Feeling adventurous? Challenge yourself to walk all four routes. The first 10 trailblazers to complete all routes will win a $100 gift card*.

*Terms and conditions apply.

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Legal Review: Detained vs. Arrested: What is the Difference?

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If you live in the Washington, DC area, it is not uncommon to find yourself in a chat with law enforcement. When that happens, it is critical to establish what is unfolding, whether it is just a momentary pause for some Q&A or you are being taken into custody.  

After all, not all encounters with police lead to the same outcome; some might just be an intermission in your day, while others could result in seeing the judge. Either way, you want to make sure you know what could happen after this conversation. In this article, we are untangling the misunderstood difference between being detained and getting arrested. 

Go to Legal Review: Detained vs. Arrested: What is the Difference? Read more

Neighborhood Expert: Best places for mini golf in Northern Virginia

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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.

My kids absolutely love mini golfing when we are at the beach. It’s a daily ritual we do after breakfast. So why not explore that activity at home?

We have some great local options to try for mini golfing:

  • Perch Putt, Tysons — 18 holes, 11 stories up (rooftop golfing!) Kids under 6 are free. Book a tee time online.
  • Pixar Putt, The Wharf — Pixar themed golf course, tee times after 7 p.m. are for people 18 and over.
  • Oakmont, Oakton — 18 holes (not very difficult holes) close by to Vienna if you’re going for proximity. Can also head over to the driving range after if you’re looking for more golf.
  • Upton Hill, Arlington — A fun 18 hole course that’s part of a larger complex that has batting cages, a climbing structure, and a pool.
  • Jefferson Falls, Falls Church — A newly renovated 18 hole course near Mosaic.
  • The Magic Putting Place, Manassas — The home to 2 individual 18 hole courses, so do both for the full experience! And then head to Nathan’s Dairy Bar next door for ice cream (just voted best ice cream by Northern Virginia Magazine).

Enjoy!

Pixar Putt (Photo via Pixar Putt Facebook Page)

Live Fairfax: Beat the heat this summer

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Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Angie Stiens of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Angie at 703-721-8539.

When it’s mid-summer in Fairfax County, it’s likely to be hot and humid and have us all looking for an escape from the weather. 

One of my favorite places to bring younger kids for summer water fun is Our Special Harbor Splash Park in Alexandria near Franconia Rec Center.

The splash park has a Chesapeake Bay theme, so if you’re paying close attention, you’ll find the park includes an osprey nest, a lighthouse, and a crabbing boat! There are misters, sprayers, and even a water maze — lots of options for even the youngest children to enjoy! Coming here is a great way to escape the Virginia heat and have some fun with your family.  

Our Special Harbor is fully accessible, so children of all abilities can join the action! And the best part is that admission is FREE for families, whether you’re a Fairfax County resident or not. Who doesn’t love some affordable water relief from these steamy summer days!

Our Special Harbor is open every day during the summer season, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It opens early on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, and closes early on Wednesdays. No street shoes, so bring your water shoes (with a closed back) and get ready to cool off while having a great time! 

And if you’re looking to extend your family time, you can also check out the other neat things nearby, like Chessie’s Big Backyard — a fabulous playground. There’s also a carousel and a walking trail complete with a treehouse view of the woods!  

If you’re looking for something other than a splash park to cool off, there are several waterparks located in Fairfax County. Great Waves waterpark is located on Eisenhower Avenue, also in Alexandria. That’s a great spot for older kids looking to burn some energy on the waterslides or in the wave pool. 

Other options include Pirate’s Cove waterpark in Lorton, Ocean Dunes waterpark in Arlington, the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole in Reston, or Atlantis Waterpark in Centreville. The waterparks do charge admissions fees, so check out their websites for details and hours.   

Regardless of your family’s preferences, there are lots of local options for cooling off in the water this summer. I hope you enjoyed hearing about just a few of them! 

Angie Stiens | Live Fairfax | angie.stiens@mcenearney.com | www.angiestiens.com | 703-721-8539 | www.McEnearney.com

Neighborhood Expert: Tips for Independence Day fireworks this year

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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.

With America’s birthday approaching, it’s really important to remind you that not all of the fireworks actually happen on July 4th, so before you post in one of the Facebook groups asking about the noises, make sure you take note of the days and times so you can plan ahead to attend if that’s your thing!

One other mom tip — the fireworks are really loud. If you have a noise-sensitive kid, either bring headphones, or use one of my other tips to watch but not hear the noise.

The Town of Vienna Fireworks are traditionally held at Yeonas Park (the Vienna Little League Fields). This year, they’ll take place on Tuesday, July 2 at 9:30 p.m. (approx. when it gets dark).

However, there’s a lot of things leading up to the actual fireworks that you can attend: live music, kids entertainment, games, food trucks, etc. starting at 6 p.m. This event is BYOC (bring your own chairs, blankets, etc.). Chairs are not permitted on the actual field, but there is a paved path and sidewalks where you can put the chairs for folks who can’t easily get up and down from the ground. There’s also bleachers but they get filled up. Streets around Yeonas will get closed from 4-11 p.m.

  • You can park at Cedar Lane Shopping Center, Thoreau Middle School, Southside Park, etc. and walk to the field if you want to be in the action
  • Please remember if you’re actually AT Yeonas, it WILL be really loud
  • You can also see the fireworks (on a clear night) from the top of the Vienna Metro parking garage and avoid the loudness of the fireworks (plus it’s easy to get out if your kid get bored or agitated)
  • You should also be able to see the fireworks from neighboring streets if you can get close to Yeonas
  • Pack snacks. Although the concession stand and food trucks will be available, I suspect the lines will be long.
  • No alcohol is allowed
  • Do not bring pets
Independence Day fireworks at Yeonas Park in Vienna (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

There are more options around Northern Virginia like July 1st at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, Langley High School in McLean, etc. Lots of opportunities around town if you’re a fireworks enthusiast!

Live Fairfax: Let’s explore Mason Neck State Park!

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Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This week’s column is sponsored and written by JaneEllen Saums of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach JaneEllen at 703-861-3523.

Mason Neck State Park is an absolute treasure, and it’s located only 25 miles from Washington, D.C. near Lorton. It has over 1,800 acres, 9 miles of trails, a Visitor’s Center, playground, and a large shaded picnic area. It’s also possible to rent kayaks and canoes there or you can bring your own.  

The Visitor’s Center overlooks Belmont Bay, and it has great exhibits, restrooms, and sells convenience items. Park rangers work the welcome desk, and if you have any questions or need assistance they’re a wonderful resource.

The Park was established in 1985 with the help of a local activist, Elizabeth Hartwell. She heard of the many plans to develop this land for a range of projects such as a planned community (like Reston), an outer Beltway, an airport, a natural gas pipeline, a landfill and a sewer line. She was ultimately able to get the land protected because of the Bald Eagle, and as the story goes, it was the Bald Eagle that saved Mason Neck and not necessarily the other way around!

The bald eagle population had been declining rapidly in the 1960s due to the use of the pesticide, DDT, and there were only 417 nesting pairs in the lower 48 states. That’s less than 9 nesting pairs per state!.  

Luckily, there were Bald Eagles at Mason Neck, and that was the main way Elizabeth Hartwell was able to keep the land from being developed — by protecting their habitat she was not only able to help save the Bald Eagle, but also this beautiful peninsula!

Luckily, the eagles have made a comeback, and it’s not uncommon to see at least one when hiking or kayaking here.

I recommend going up Kane’s Creek where there’s an abundance of wildlife. On the tours I’ve helped lead, we often see ospreys, great blue herons, tree swallows, bluebirds, and red wing black birds — and if we’re lucky — bald eagles, as well. 

Several large special events are held at the Park such as the annual Eagle Festival in the spring and the Park After Dark event in the fall, as well as short programs with topics as varied as snakes, wildflowers, birds, turtles, and dragonflies. There’s a Junior Ranger summer camp program for children, and guided kayak tours after-hours in the early morning and late in the evening.  

Thanks to Elizabeth Hartwell, and many other local activists, we have this beautiful park which allows you to easily get away from the hustle and bustle of the DMV. 

Mason Neck is open from 6 a.m. to dusk during the summer and from 7 a.m. to dusk in the winter. I hope you’re able to come and explore it and see the wildlife, experience a paddle on the water, or participate in a guided walk while you’re there. 

For information about Riverbend Park, which is another wonderful park in the DMV, click here.

JaneEllen McLaughlin Saums is a Realtor® with McEnearney Associates and is also a Master Naturalist with Fairfax County. 703-861-3523| jsaums@mcenearney.com | www.janeellensells.com | www.McEnearney.com | 1320 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA 22101

Join Electrical Alliance: Electricians, apprentices, helpers needed

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Electrical Alliance

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