DC CLOUT "DC Area Real Estate Buzz"

DC Green Festival Washington DC 2008 11/08 - 11/09

Green Festival Washington DC 2008  11/08  Saturday 10am - 7pm - 11/09 Sunday  11am - 6pm  at The Washington Covention Center...   7th and L Sts NW Washington   for more green info visit the DC Green Pages

DC Among Real Estate Markets Most Likely To Rebound

1. Seattle

2. San Francisco

3. Washington DC

4. New York

5. Los Angeles

info source  forbes.com

A Few Words About DC's Home Purchase Assistance Program - HPAP

19 Million Slashed From First Time Home Buyers Program.

Updated 11/17/08

For those considering using HPAP to purchase a home in the District of Columbia, the time is now. Do Not Put It OFF.

The entire country is in the midst of a budget crisis. DC's budget is in crisis and the mayor and council are looking for way to stop the bleeding. Non essential programs will be the first to be targeted. I AM NOT SAYING THAT THE HPAP PROGRAM WILL BE CUT, BUT IT'S POSSIBLE.

The program is very generous. No other place in the country that I know of is so generous. I get calls from Maryland and Virginia residents almost daily asking if such a plan is available in their states or if they are eligible for DC's HPAP. The answer, there is no similar program in Maryland or Virginia. Yes, all are eligible for DC's HPAP, but DC's residents always come first, so if you are not a DC resident don't bother.

Now if you are a DC resident and considering using HPAP don't delay.  HPAP might escape the budget Axe, but if you are ready to buy, act today... Nonessential services and programs are the first to go, $70,000 trwards the purchase of a home is not and essential city service.. 

Interested in more info on the  DC HPAP program contact me directly at dcrealtor@live.com  or call 301/452-2278

$320k For a Fabulous Columbia Heights 1 bedroom 1 bath Condo - Easy walk to Columbia Heights Metro

The Walkscore for 1438 Columbia Rd NW is 83 on a 100 point scale (personal transportation not required). Walk Score calculates the walkability of an address by locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, etc.  courtesy www.walkscore.com

The Ultimate Urban Experience - The 'new' Columbia Heights- a young urban professionals paradise.  And this Fabulous one bedroom, one full bathroom condo places you in the center of it all., Metro a short walk. Also a short walk to dining, shopping, entertainment, nightlife, fitness facilities and more. Features hardwood floors, kitchen breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, ice maker, microwave, hardwood floors, secure entry, washer/dryer,  Now, add a flat screen television. It's two years young and the owner took immaculate care. Renovated  2006 A MUST SEE.    1438 Columbia Rd #203 NW Washington DC

              

Contact DC's Condo Guy For Viewings and Additional info  dccondoguy@live.com

134K for a Great Coop in the Heart of Adams Morgan - Near 18th and Columbia Rd

Great Coop mere steps from it All... 1801 Clydesdale Pl NW (see map)...   In the heart of Adams Morgan... Priced to move...  $140,000  $134,500  I DON'T EXPECT THIS ONE TO LAST!

Features: Studio with new stove and refrigerator, updated kitchen secure building, 24 HR concierge,  exercise room, roof deck,  laundry room and is walking distance from it All....

The Walk Score for 1801 Clydesdale is 86 on a 100 point scale.  Walk Score calculates the walkability of an address by locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, etc.

    

Contact DC's Condo Guy For Viewings and Additional info  dccondoguy@live.com

Washington DC Home Sales Statistics by Neighborhood

Washington DC September home sales statistics by Neighborhood now available  at DC Clout - DC's  online buyers and sellers real estate resource center...   click here  

Tips on Moving with Pets

When making your moving plans, don’t forget to include your beloved pets. Although they present a new set of challenges, it doesn’t have to add to your stress if you take the following steps before your big move.

Visit the vet
Schedule a pre-move visit with your veterinarian for a checkup and to make sure that all vaccinations are current. Use this time to get copies of your pet’s records, a recommendation for a veterinarian in your new location, and possibly a tranquilizer to give your pet during transportation.

Research laws in new area
Research the requirements regarding animals in your new locality. Nearly every state has laws regarding entry of dogs, cats, horses, birds and other pets. For example, most states require interstate health certificates for dogs and horses coming from another state. If you own an exotic animal such as a ferret or potbellied pig, check to see if it is allowed as a pet in your new city. Some states require an entry permit. You can obtain compliance information from the state veterinarian or other appropriate authority. It’s important to get this information well ahead of your move so that you can get any necessary examinations or documents.

Make sure your pet’s identity and rabies tags are current. You should also have a special travel identification tag just in case they become lost during the move. The tag should include the pet’s name, your name and new address, and an alternate contact.

Decide on transportation mode
Decide how you will be transporting your pet. Animals are not allowed on moving vans, so your choices are by car or air.

By car
If traveling by car, the American Animal Hospital Association suggests that you take your pet on short rides before the trip so that he can get accustomed to the movement. The day of the trip, don’t feed your pet for several hours before departure. It’s also a good idea to take him on a long walk before heading out.

Pack a travel kit to include food, food and water dishes, can opener, scooper, paper towels for clean ups, and plastic bags. You may also want to include a blanket to cover your car seats, plus treats and a favorite toy.

If you are traveling with birds or other small pets, such as a hamster, make sure they are in a stable cage with proper ventilation. A kennel for cat or dog may also be a good idea.

If your trip will require an overnight stay, find out well in advance of your trip whether pets are allowed at the lodging of your choice. The website www.petswelcome.com is a great place to search for lodging that accommodates pets.

By air
Traveling by air definitely requires preplanning. Each airline has its own policy regarding pet transportation. In addition, there are federal requirements you must follow. For example, dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and weaned for at least five days. In addition, cages and containers must meet certain standards.

You need to decide if your pet will accompany you in the cabin or be checked as baggage, or shipped separately by air freight.

Check with your airline to make sure that pets are allowed to travel in the cabin and obtain guidelines. The U.S. Federal Animal Welfare Act requires that pets traveling in the passenger cabin be in a carrier that can fit underneath the seat without blocking the main aisle. The container must remain stowed the entire flight.

If your pet will be transported as baggage or by freight, make shipping arrangements as far in advance as possible so that space can be reserved. It is recommended that you schedule a non-stop flight on a weekday. You also need to supply the air carrier written instructions for food and water.

Other precautions to take when transporting your pet by air include:
 

• Before traveling, get your pet accustomed to the kennel in which it will be shipped.
• Don’t give your pet solid food six hours prior to the flight. Providing water a few hours before the flight is advisable.
• Write your contact information on the container and make sure your pet is wearing a tag with the same information.

The Federal Aviation Administration (www.faa.gov) and Department of Transportation’s (http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov) websites have valuable information regarding traveling with pets.

Transitioning to new home
Once you are in your new home there are some things you can do to help ease the transition for your pet. If you have a dog, take him for a walk immediately so that he can become familiar with the new area. Cats, on the other hand, have a tendency to run away searching for their old home. They should be kept indoors for several weeks until they become comfortable in the new home and familiar with its scents and noises.

Veterinarians also advise that you bring water from your old home, because a change in water sources can sometimes cause your pet to become sick.

Like humans, pets are can become stressed when change occurs. By planning ahead, you can help to make sure your pet has a smooth transition to its new environment.

courtesy of Al Matlock DC Maryland Real Estate Professional

When making your moving plans, don’t forget to include your beloved pets. Although they present a new set of challenges, it doesn’t have to add to your stress if you take the following steps before your big move.

Visit the vet
Schedule a pre-move visit with your veterinarian for a checkup and to make sure that all vaccinations are current. Use this time to get copies of your pet’s records, a recommendation for a veterinarian in your new location, and possibly a tranquilizer to give your pet during transportation.

Research laws in new area
Research the requirements regarding animals in your new locality. Nearly every state has laws regarding entry of dogs, cats, horses, birds and other pets. For example, most states require interstate health certificates for dogs and horses coming from another state. If you own an exotic animal such as a ferret or potbellied pig, check to see if it is allowed as a pet in your new city. Some states require an entry permit. You can obtain compliance information from the state veterinarian or other appropriate authority. It’s important to get this information well ahead of your move so that you can get any necessary examinations or documents.

Make sure your pet’s identity and rabies tags are current. You should also have a special travel identification tag just in case they become lost during the move. The tag should include the pet’s name, your name and new address, and an alternate contact.

Decide on transportation mode
Decide how you will be transporting your pet. Animals are not allowed on moving vans, so your choices are by car or air.

By car
If traveling by car, the American Animal Hospital Association suggests that you take your pet on short rides before the trip so that he can get accustomed to the movement. The day of the trip, don’t feed your pet for several hours before departure. It’s also a good idea to take him on a long walk before heading out.

Pack a travel kit to include food, food and water dishes, can opener, scooper, paper towels for clean ups, and plastic bags. You may also want to include a blanket to cover your car seats, plus treats and a favorite toy.

If you are traveling with birds or other small pets, such as a hamster, make sure they are in a stable cage with proper ventilation. A kennel for cat or dog may also be a good idea.

If your trip will require an overnight stay, find out well in advance of your trip whether pets are allowed at the lodging of your choice. The website www.petswelcome.com is a great place to search for lodging that accommodates pets.

By air
Traveling by air definitely requires preplanning. Each airline has its own policy regarding pet transportation. In addition, there are federal requirements you must follow. For example, dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and weaned for at least five days. In addition, cages and containers must meet certain standards.

You need to decide if your pet will accompany you in the cabin or be checked as baggage, or shipped separately by air freight.

Check with your airline to make sure that pets are allowed to travel in the cabin and obtain guidelines. The U.S. Federal Animal Welfare Act requires that pets traveling in the passenger cabin be in a carrier that can fit underneath the seat without blocking the main aisle. The container must remain stowed the entire flight.

If your pet will be transported as baggage or by freight, make shipping arrangements as far in advance as possible so that space can be reserved. It is recommended that you schedule a non-stop flight on a weekday. You also need to supply the air carrier written instructions for food and water.

Other precautions to take when transporting your pet by air include:
 

• Before traveling, get your pet accustomed to the kennel in which it will be shipped.
• Don’t give your pet solid food six hours prior to the flight. Providing water a few hours before the flight is advisable.
• Write your contact information on the container and make sure your pet is wearing a tag with the same information.

The Federal Aviation Administration (www.faa.gov) and Department of Transportation’s (http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov) websites have valuable information regarding traveling with pets.

Transitioning to new home
Once you are in your new home there are some things you can do to help ease the transition for your pet. If you have a dog, take him for a walk immediately so that he can become familiar with the new area. Cats, on the other hand, have a tendency to run away searching for their old home. They should be kept indoors for several weeks until they become comfortable in the new home and familiar with its scents and noises.

Veterinarians also advise that you bring water from your old home, because a change in water sources can sometimes cause your pet to become sick.

Like humans, pets are can become stressed when change occurs. By planning ahead, you can help to make sure your pet has a smooth transition to its new environment.

courtesy of Al Matlock DC Maryland Real Estate Professional

Howard University Homecoming 2008 Events

The Biggest Party Weekend of the Year

Homecoming Weekend 08 @ Love Nightclub Friday 10/17 and Saturday 10/08 Hosted by P Diddy 1350 Okie St NE DC Tickets $30 VIP $80 click here for tickets

Homecoming Happy Hour and Welcome Party @ the Crossroads Nightclub Friday 10/17 Gyptian's 'CD Release Party' Plus DJ's Spinnin' Reggae, Soca and Hip Hop

Soul In The City Howard U Homecoming Edition @ Bohemian Caverns Friday 10/17 Feat: Eric Roberson and Algebra 8pm showtime 2001 11th St NW DC

Howard Homecoming Thursday 10/16 @ Zanzibar on the Waterfront feat; Fertile Ground "Say It Loud!!! I'm HU & I'm Proud' 700 Water St SW DC

Homecoming Friday 10/17 @ Zanzibar on the Waterfront with Sugar Hill Gang 700 Water St SW Washington DC

For All Howard Homecoming Events Visit The Zone

Washington DC Condo Sales for September 2008 by price

Price Range

Units Sold

Under $100,000	1
$100,000 - $199,999	22
$200,000 - $299,999	45
$300,000 - $399,999	47
$400,000 - $499,999	33
$500,000 - $599,999	13
$600,000 - $699,999	11
$700,000 - $799,999	8
$800,000 - $899,999	4
$900,000 - $999,999	0
$1,000,000 - $2,499,999	8
$2,500,000 - $4,999,999	2
Totals	194

courtesy of the DC Condo Guy            August Sales Here

September 2008 Home Sales Statistics for Washington DC

Washington DC  Home Sales Statistics are in for September 2008. Here's a brief snippet- more details coming.....  The 1st numbers are for 2008/2nd number for 2007/3rd change percentage 

Average. sold price $520,296 - $543,608  (-4.29%)
Total Units Sold - 409 - 410  (- 0.24%)
Of that 409,  194  were condos/coop
Average sold price Condos - $417,648  - $405,271

Avg. Days on Market  82 - 69   (18.84%)

For Washington DC Home Sales Statistics by zip code click here  Also compare stats for 2007, 2006, 2005

source Mris