We can all agree that the plunger is gross; figuring out what to do with it after clearing a clogged toilet is another matter.

You know what I am talking about, you plunge your toilet and then look at the plunger afterward and wonder: “Do I just put it on the floor and hope the germs on it die on their own? Should I rinse it in the tub or sink and hope the germs aren’t transferred there?” Suffice it to say, regardless of what you do, the traditional plunger is a germ spreader.

But does it have to be that way?

That’s not what longtime Arlington resident and Schoon™ inventor Elaine Steele thinks!

The Schoon

The idea for Schoon came to Elaine one morning in January 2020 after plunging yet another clog in her bathroom in her old house in Arlington. A search of the internet for a plunger that has a way to clean itself yielded no results. After an exhaustive search of the Patent and Trademark site to find an invention that solves this problem, she found that there were none. Elaine realized that a self-cleaning plunger did not exist.

Elaine approached her longtime friend, Pierre, about the idea of a self-cleaning plunger. Being a germaphobe, he was intrigued, and the two started collaborating on the idea that February. Several designs, a few prototypes, lots of testing, and a patent application later, Schoon was born!

Making Schoon a reality required more elbow grease! Researching and dealing with several manufacturers, part suppliers, and assembly vendors to get a quality product at the right price point was a long journey.

So how does Schoon work? After unclogging your toilet, Schoon allows you to use the included wand to spray disinfectant over the top and the underneath of the plunger cup, cleaning the plunger immediately after use. You can also use Schoon to disinfect the toilet and surrounding area. Elaine says, “Pierre and I intentionally created a sleek design, so that you can leave your Schoon out and at the ready for use when you need it.”

(more…)


Address: 646 H Street NE, #PH-3
Neighborhood:
Type: 2 BR + den, 2 (+1 half) BA condo — 1,265 sq. ft.
Listed: $850,000

Noteworthy: $25k credit to the buyer at settlement for a ratified contract by June 15!

Like NEW! Built in 2020, this penthouse has been a second home ever since. This exceptional penthouse features 2 bedrooms, a bright den and 2.5 bathrooms, 10-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and wide-plank wood floors.

The chef’s kitchen has a waterfall quartz island and Bosch appliances. The upper level opens onto an extraordinary, private terrace with natural gas hook-up and water spigot. Each bedroom suite has excellent closets and luxe bathrooms with dual sink vanities and halo-lit mirrors. Other features include a main level powder room, in-unit washer and dryer, custom window treatments and 8-foot interior doors.

Walk Score 95, near Whole Foods, shops, restaurants. Easy access to Metro, Amtrak. Pet-friendly. Rental parking for residents of 646 H is available at the neighboring Apollo apartment building.

Listed by:
Christine Fischer — McEnearney
[email protected]
(703) 930-6349


As we enter June, we would assume the ‘spring market’ will subside but that doesn’t seem to be the case quite yet. With hundreds of new listings and nearly 400 DC Open Houses across the District this weekend, the market is nearly as hot as it was in April. Check out some of our favorites and to see the full Open House List, click here.

4822 Blagden Avenue NW
  • 4822 Blagden Avenue NW — $1,995,000 — Crestwood
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Mark Bertini
    “This one-of-a-kind re-imagined Colonial with a separate Two Level Carriage House totaling over 4000 sq. ft. of finished space just built at the rear of the property. This affords additional rental/au pair/Airbnb possibilities complete with a spacious upper bedroom level and full bath and a large living area with an open full kitchen along with a W/D on the main level is located in idyllic Crestwood one of D.C.’s most sought-after neighborhoods, directly adjacent to Rock Creek Park, the Fitzgerald Tennis Center, and with quick access to downtown via Rock Creek Parkway and 16th Street. A short trip west through the Park to Van Ness and Cleveland Park. All offers are considered and presented as they come in. The first floor of the main home has an open floor plan with a Gourmet Kitchen with island, a spacious dining area and living room with a fireplace and a wall-to-wall glass door that leads to the gorgeous covered patio area out back overlooking the landscaped backyard area, a half bath on the main level as well. The second floor has a large primary suite with a walk-in closet and three other wall closets and a spa-like bath with a double vanity. There are also another two bedrooms that share the full bath in the hall on this level. Situated on the third level is an additional suite with another full bath a large cedar-lined closet and other storage options built in that could be used as another bedroom, a play area, or a fantastic office space. On the lower level, you will find another large rec room area perfect for that huge TV viewing room with a fireplace along with a full bath and a flex room that could serve as a bedroom or office. A full laundry room completes the lower level and access to the back yard from the lower backdoor entrance. Convenient multi-car parking area out back off the private alley along with easy street parking out front.”
  • 241 14th Place NE — $724,900 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Christopher Suranna & Colin Johnson
    “This elegant 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home perfectly blends historic charm with modern conveniences, offering a cozy and inviting living space. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by beautiful hardwood floors and an abundance of natural light that fills the open living and dining areas. The classic architectural details, including a fireplace, add a touch of timeless sophistication.”
  • 3705 Morrison Street NW — $2,499,999 — Chevy Chase
    Open Sun. 1-4 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    $200k PRICE REDUCTION: “A beautifully maintained 1909 home in the heart of Chevy Chase D.C. This five-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom residence features working fireplaces, a coffered ceiling in the dining room, and an artist’s studio in the backyard. As you step inside, you are greeted by the grandeur of this historic home.”
  • 637 Oglethorpe Street NE — $679,999 — Riggs Park
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Aaquil Atkins
    “No expense was spared on the attention to detail put into the craftsmanship of this home. Open layout on the main level allows for multi-use purposes be it casual, formal or grab-and-go entertaining. The deck and fenced backyard is perfect for a summer cookout on the 4th of July with friends and family!”
  • 4114 Davis Place NW #316 — $379,000 — Glover Park
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Dina Thomas
    “This super sunny top level condo in sought-after Glover Park is everything you’ve been waiting for. With an abundance of all-day natural light, this open concept one bedroom, one bathroom unit is updated throughout.”
  • 2016 4th Street NE #2 — $890,000 — Eckington
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Ashk Adamiyatt
    $35k PRICE REDUCTION: “Step into the epitome of modern urban living with this lovely 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath duplex condo, a charming gem nestled in a vibrant neighborhood. This upper unit offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, perfect for those seeking the quintessential city lifestyle.”
  • 1312 Massachusetts Avenue NW #610 — $425,000 — Thomas Circle
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Jennifer Chow
    “This beautiful 6th-floor unit features an open floor plan, with the kitchen opening to a dining area adorned with a stunning chandelier. The spacious living room boasts a custom built-in bookcase, recessed lighting and expansive windows.”

Address: 251 15th Street SE
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill East
Type: 3 BR, 2 BA townhouse — 1,584 sq. ft.
Listed: $899,000

Noteworthy: Hardwood floors, fireplace, gourmet kitchen, private backyard

Three bedroom, two bath rowhome nestled in Capitol Hill East.

Hardwood floors throughout the open floor plan, sleek updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances. Bathrooms have been thoughtfully renovated with contemporary finishes. Natural light floods the interior, built-in shelves, and fireplace, enhancing the spacious layout.

Private backyard, walk to Potomac Avenue Metro, Eastern Market, Lincoln Park, and Safeway. Easy access to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Listed by:
Sean Forschler
[email protected]
(202) 744-6723


Real Estate Fresh Finds is a weekly selection of newly-listed properties in the District, brought to you by RLAH Real Estate

Featured Property of the Week: 637 Oglethorpe Street NE

637 Oglethorpe Street NE

“The Historic and Distinguished Riggs Park offers this phenomenal opportunity to live in this fully redeveloped end unit townhome with immaculate finishes. No expense was spared on the attention to detail put into the craftsmanship of this home. Open layout on the main level allows for multi-use purposes be it casual, formal or grab-and-go entertaining. The deck and fenced backyard are perfect for a summer cookout on the 4th of July with friends and family! What do you need when guests visit? Parking! Huge Parking pad that can fit up to 4 CARS! A consistent modern theme of black, and white with a touch of grey throughout the home is offset by light wood flooring just waiting for you to add your personal touch to make it home! Just minutes from Ft Totten metro, Takoma Park Shopping Center, One Life Fitness Center, Walmart, gas stations, local shops and so much more! One of Washington, D.C.’s hidden gems! Get in before it’s too late!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 3 BR/3.5 BA Georgetown condo at The Elliot with nearly 4k sq. ft. and features oversized windows, an open floorplan, wet bar, a double-sided fireplace, a gorgeous primary suite, and an elevator that opens directly into the unit — all for $6.9M.
  • “Unit # S525 is the studio you’ve been looking for! This spacious [SW Waterfront] studio has updated floors in the main living space, upgraded bathroom vanity with a quartz countertop, large walk-in closet, and a private balcony perfect for enjoying a morning cup of coffee!”
  • A 1 BR/1 BA Thomas Circle “beautiful 6th-floor unit features an open floor plan, with the kitchen opening to a dining area adorned with a stunning chandelier. The spacious living room boasts a custom built-in bookcase, recessed lighting and expansive windows.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a “charming, one-of-a-kind offering in Randle Heights” with 4 BR/3 BA that has been recently updated and is one of the nicest REO listings we’ve seen in a long time.

Address: 4125 7th Street NW
Neighborhood: Petworth
Type: 4 BR, 3 (+1 half) BA townhouse — 2,400 sq. ft.
Listed: $1,100,000

Noteworthy: Charm, restoration, open floor plan, parking, solar panels, rental unit.

Renovations in 2023 (new kitchen in in-law suite and separate washer/dryer for main house). Loads of space, spread out all over this 4-level, 4-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home.

Meticulously renovated this year without losing the historical charm, while adding modern features like solar panels that lower your electric bill. Huge fully-updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a dining room and a living room are on an open first floor. A private loft office is above the master bedroom. Secure, private parking space. Raised flower beds. A basement suite has its own kitchen and washer/dryer and can be used for guests, a rec room or music room, or a rental in-law suite.

One block to hot spots on Upshur like Cinder BBQ, Timber Pizza, and Lulubelle Sweets and only a few blocks to the Petworth Metro, new neighborhood playground, and Petworth Library.

Listed by:
Bruce Majors — Long and Foster
[email protected]
(202) 704-6401/(703) 522 0500


We now return you to your regularly scheduled DC Open House programming. With MDW out of the way, we have a weekend loaded to the brim with open houses tallying over 450 across the District. Take a look at some of our best picks and to see the full Open House List, click here.

  • 3604 11th Street NW — $1,249,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open House Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “IT’S 3604 THE WIN! It’s the stunning finishes. It’s the eye-popping upgrades. It’s the quality renovation. It’s so much! At every turn, this beautiful row home clinches the high score. Stepping up from the residential, one-way street, past the quaint front garden, you’ll be tempted to have a seat on the handsomely painted porch, complete with ceiling fan to make leisurely summer evenings sublime. But don’t stop — you’ve got so much to explore! Entering at the main level, you’ll find a floor completely reimagined in 2020. From the living room with pass-through gas fireplace, move into a truly stunning kitchen. This overflowing space is decked out in Carrara Marmi quartz, topping the counters and central island. The Versa Shaker cabinets are the perfect blend of sensible and sleek. And that gorgeous butcher-block bar may have just winked at you… While the finishes are warm, the Lifeproof LVP floors along this main level truly bring the heat — the radiant heat. Can’t stand the heat? Then get out of the kitchen and onto the adjacent back deck. This inviting outdoor space is perfect for outdoor entertaining or a low-key dinner al fresco. Rounding out the tour of this heavenly home, with its soaring ceilings, the sub level offers another full bath, second washer and dryer, storage, and an open footprint to create whatever you like, be it guest suite, gym, home theater, or something else entirely. Just behind, below the large deck, you’ll find garage parking with automatic door and a built-in Tesla EV charger. This winning property has everything! It’s all the better for being in a winning location.”
  • 800 4th Street SW #S525 — $275,000 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Monique Van Blaricom
    “Unit # S525 is the studio you’ve been looking for! This spacious studio has updated floors in the main living space, upgraded bathroom vanity with a quartz countertop, large walk-in closet, and a private balcony perfect for enjoying a morning cup of coffee!”
  • 1763 Columbia Road NW #407 — $400,000 — Adams Morgan/Mt Pleasant
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Kerri Murphy
    “A perfect combination of location and unheard-of value are found in this beautiful one-bedroom condo at The Imperial in Adams Morgan! You’ll be surrounded by all the conveniences of everyday living and a vibrant neighborhood.”
  • 315 Douglas Street NE — $799,000 — Edgewood
    Open Sat. & Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Graham Grossman
    “This home has been gently occupied, caringly updated, and will soon also be dearly missed. Owners have made numerous improvements even after purchasing a top-to-bottom rehab. This home is infinitely flexible and suits nearly every need.”
  • 2101 11th Street NW #203 — $639,900 — U Street Corridor
    Open Sat. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Lorin Mones
    “Modern 2bed/2bath condo, where contemporary living meets an unbeatable location in the heart of the city. Inside, the gourmet kitchen boasts sleek quartz countertops, a beautiful island with bar-style seating, rich espresso cabinets, and high-end Jenn-Air appliances, including a gas range, perfect for cooking and entertaining. The open living area provides plenty of room for socializing or relaxing, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.”
  • 1259 16th Street NE — $589,999 — Trinidad
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Josh Alecknavage & Jennifer Chow
    “Introducing an upcoming gem in beautiful NE D.C. Enter past the front garden lovingly maintained by a certified green thumb who adores the beautiful azaleas, cone flowers, and honeysuckle looking to bloom soon this spring and sure to impress guests when they arrive into a generous open floor plan with wood flooring and recessed lighting throughout.”
  • 7250 15th Place NW — $1,300,000 — Shepherd Park
    Open Sat. 12-3 p.m. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Blake Davenport
    “4bed/3.5bath detached home with large fenced in backyard and finished basement. This home has been completely reimagined, blending modern finishes with classic and stunning D.C. architectural features.”

Real Estate Fresh Finds is a weekly selection of newly-listed properties in the District, brought to you by RLAH Real Estate

Featured Property of the Week: 2016 4th Street NE #2

“Welcome to Your Urban Retreat in Eckington! Step into the epitome of modern urban living with this lovely 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath duplex condo, a charming gem nestled in a vibrant neighborhood. This upper unit offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, perfect for those seeking the quintessential city lifestyle. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by an inviting open floor plan, seamlessly connecting the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Natural light floods the space, highlighting the contemporary design and stylish finishes, creating an ambiance of warmth and sophistication. Experience the joy of outdoor living with your own private deck and garden, providing a tranquil oasis for relaxation or delightful al fresco dining. Plus, rest easy knowing that parking is included, ensuring effortless access to your urban haven. This home is truly a treasure, boasting thoughtful design and being only 5 years young, it caters perfectly to modern lifestyles. With its prime location, you’re just moments away from the metro, Union Market, supermarkets, restaurants, parks, bike paths, and a plethora of other amenities!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 4 BR/6.5 BA detached French-style home in Kent with 5,600+ total sq. ft. across 3 levels on a ½-acre lot and features a library/office, formal dining, 3 fireplaces, parking for 4 cars, multiple decks/outdoor spaces, a huge backyard and a lower level ‘wine cellar’ which may not be climate-controlled — all for $4.8M.
  • Gorgeous “custom-renovated” Petworth interior rowhome “with four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and one-half bathroom” and “this modern designed residence spans over 2,400+ square feet of luxurious living space.”
  • “Sunny & bright, renovated [3 BR/2.5 BA] end-unit brick townhome with fenced back yard, front yard, and large deck, just a short walk away to the Deanwood Metro. This beautiful home is clean + move-in ready, and provides an ideal blend of comfort, upgraded modern amenities, and tons of extra natural daylight that is only found in an end-unit home with windows on 3 sides.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 4 BR/1.5 BA all-brick 16th St. Heights rowhome that will require a lot of work to bring it up to speed both with exterior and interior construction.

Another holiday weekend, especially a warm weather and grilling holiday, means a temporary dip in the active DC Open Houses with less than 200 scheduled across the District. If you aren’t interested in some burgers or a pool day, there are still some great options that are on the market and perhaps you’ll have less competition to make an offer if you move quickly! Check out some of our favorites below and to see the full Open House List, click here.

2930 Newark St NW — $2,200,000 — Cleveland Park
Open Sat. 11AM-1PM — Jennifer Dameika
“Welcome to 2930 Newark Street NW, an exquisite Sherman Cottage-style home located in the historic neighborhood of Cleveland Park. This distinguished residence, characterized by its charming wrap-around front porch, shingle siding, and distinctive diamond-style window sashes, offers an unparalleled blend of historic allure and modern sophistication. With five spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms, this property exemplifies timeless elegance and contemporary comfort. As you enter the foyer, you are greeted by freshly refinished hardwood floors that extend throughout the home. The first level features a grand great room with French doors, two fireplaces, built-in shelving, and a central arch that naturally defines a multi-purpose living area. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary haven, boasting heated floors, a large center island with a double sink, gas cooking, ample cabinet space, and a generous breakfast area with a built-in serving credenza. A full bathroom with a walk-in shower and heated tile floors is conveniently located on this level. The second floor offers four bedrooms, one of which features a private porch, perfect for reading, sipping coffee, or enjoying a warm summer rain. Two other bedroom are of ample size, and the fourth is perfect for a nursery, home office, or hobby room. Another full bathroom with heated tile flooring serves this level, providing comfort and luxury. The third floor is dedicated to the primary bedroom suite, featuring vaulted ceilings and extensive closet space. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, complete with a walk-in shower, soaking tub, vanity counter, separate toilet room, and of course heated tile flooring.”
4005 20th St NE — $750,000 — Michigan Park
Open Sun. 1-3PM — Arynne Crane
“This delightful brick house in the Michigan Park neighborhood of Washington DC might be just what you’re looking for. As you approach this enchanting home, you’ll be greeted by the inviting pergola draped with lush honeysuckle, setting the scene for the magic that lies beyond. Step through the front gate into your own private sanctuary, complete with a spacious yard adorned with mature trees, offering shade and serenity.”
7119 16th St NW — $1,495,000 — Shepherd Park
Open Sun. 1-4PM — Bill Jackson
“Welcome to this brick-and-stone stunner located in the sought-after upper northwest DC neighborhood, Shepherd Park. Nicely elevated, overlooking Rock Creek Park, and restored to its original character, this home features gleaming hardwood floors throughout, five bedrooms, and four full bathrooms.”
1127 46th St SE — $719,900 — Fort Dupont Park
Open Sat. 1-5 & Sun. 2-5PM — Julius Tikum
“Beautiful Detached Single Family home with space and parking ! 4 bedrooms with a beautiful open layout. This vibrant home is ready for a quick move in ! Multiple levels of dynamic, modern finishes, counters and stainless appliances; This 4 BR; 3.5 BAs home has large walk-in closets; an upper level laundry room; and a generous rear private parking area with space for multiple cars.”
813 25th St NW — $849,900 — Foggy Bottom
Open Sat. 1-3 & Sun. 3-5PM — Andy Hewitt
This “charming two-bedroom, one-bathroom Federal townhouse nestled in the heart of Foggy Bottom. This historic home built in 1900 is the perfect blend of classic charm with modern upgrades. Stroll through a picturesque front patio and garden, and enter to find hardwood floors, custom built-ins and a wood-burning fireplace.”
601 Wharf St SW #212 — $899,000 — Southwest Waterfront
Open Sat. 12-2PM — Melanie Gamble
“Presenting an exquisite one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence at Amaris, where meticulous design meets unparalleled sophistication, and the art of waterfront living is redefined. Crafted by a renowned NYC interior designer, this home is a testament to luxury and attention to detail, featuring special custom molding that adds an air of elegance and uniqueness to the space.”

Real Estate Fresh Finds is a weekly selection of newly-listed properties in the District, brought to you by RLAH Real Estate

Featured Property of the Week: 159 Randolph Place NW

“Seize the opportunity with this classic Victorian Row House in Eckington, perfectly poised for renovation by an investor or savvy homeowner. Spanning four levels, this home features a welcoming main level with a living room, dining room, and kitchen, designed for both functionality and flow. The second level houses three bedrooms and a full bath, while the top floor offers an additional bedroom, expanding the living space. The lower level is an English basement with both front and rear entrances, offering potential as a rentable apartment or additional entertainment space. A spacious deck at the rear provides an outdoor retreat ideal for relaxation or hosting gatherings. Located just blocks from two Green Line Metro stations and the bustling Rhode Island Ave, with easy access to the vibrant Shaw and U Street neighborhoods, this property is not just a home but a strategic investment. Enjoy the convenience of city living with a footprint ready for transformation. Whether looking to personalize or capitalize, this Eckington gem offers endless possibilities in a coveted area.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/7.5 BA “renovated to perfection” Colonial in Wesley Heights with nearly 9k sq. ft. across 4 levels features 4 fireplaces, 15’ ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, library/den, 3 laundry areas, home gym, athletic court and a secluded backyard with a stone patio and a heated saltwater pool with a cabana — all for $6.25M.
  • “Luxurious Living in Georgetown Park: Elegant 1 BR/1.5 BA Condo! Ideally situated within Georgetown Park, you’ll enjoy unparalleled convenience with direct access to upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, trendy boutiques, and entertainment options right at your doorstep.”
  • 4 BR/3.5 BA “traditional and modern Petworth rowhome with a charming front porch and an exceptionally deep and green rear yard” as well as 2 off-street parking spaces, garden beds and a hot tub.
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a 2 BR/1.5 BA unit being sold AS-IS with occupants that “neither the seller nor the listing broker can verify the existence of any lease agreement” with no inspections or walkthroughs allowed.

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