Dear PoPville readers,

Did you catch one of our employees on CNN? Click here for the video!

With Congress considering raising the minimum wage, Nishad decided to share his story about how earning a living wage at our company has improved his life and his prospects for the future. While we at Well-Paid Maids are disappointed that the minimum wage was not raised in the American Rescue Plan, we are hopeful that stories like Nishad’s can help convince Congress to act in a future bill.

As the D.C. area’s only living-wage home cleaning service, it’s obvious to us that every employee should earn a living wage. That’s why all our employees make at least $17/hour and receive a full benefits package including 22 paid days off, health, dental, and vision insurance, and 100% employer-paid commuting. As you saw in the clip, we’re able to make a big difference in the lives of our staff by paying a living wage plus benefits.

(more…)


With regularly 65+ degree weather this week, getting outside is a no brainer. There are 275+ open houses scheduled across the District this weekend, so if you’re starting (or continuing) your home search, it’s a great weekend for a stroll about D.C.! Make sure your agent has a strategy to keep you safe while searching for your next home. To see the full Open House List, click here.

  • 1439 G Street NE — $765,000 — H Street Corridor
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Ashley Brudowsky
    “Just steps from H St, this charming row house is the one you’ve been waiting for! The first floor boasts an open layout, hardwood floors, exposed brick and a large kitchen ideal for entertaining. This home has been loved and updated over the years — roof (2021), exterior paint (2021), tankless water heater (2018), HVAC replacement (2014). Hurry — this one won’t last long!”
  • 5227 New Hampshire Avenue NW — $949,900 — Petworth
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “You’ll love this gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath row house from the minute you walk up the front steps to the pretty front porch (with views over a lovely park)!”
  • 2724 12th Street NE #7 — $570,000 — Brookland
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Michael Sheridan
    “This stunning townhome style condo is like new! It’s a modern, light-filled home with gorgeous hardwoods throughout the main level and hallway upstairs, custom window fixtures, custom closet organizers, and an open floor plan perfect for entertaining.”
  • 2412 17th Street NW #10 — $569,000 — Adams Morgan
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — James Thomley
    “This spacious and inviting 2 bedroom 1 bath condo in the heart of Adams Morgan is the perfect location for city living with all the conveniences literally only steps away! Light-filled at all times of the day, this home features hardwood floors throughout with oversized windows and a large wide balcony stretching the entire length of this unit.”
  • 1324 E Street SE #309 — $485,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Heather Sand
    “Welcome to Luxury at its finest in Capitol Hill, The Buchanan School: A Ditto Project. Features of this unit include 10′ plus ceilings, custom closets, washer/dryer, gourmet kitchen with soft close drawers and doors, quartz countertops and backsplash, under-cabinet lighting and Bosch appliances.”
  • 1932 9th Street NW #201 — $729,900 — U Street/Shaw
    Open Sun. 1-4 p.m. — Thomas Doyle
    “This sleek and modern condo benefits from high end finishes and an open floor plan. The unit features reclaimed wide-plank oak solid wood flooring and floor to ceiling windows, which let in abundant natural light.”

Ala opened their doors Monday, March 1 as a one-of-a-kind Levantine dining experience in the heart of Dupont Circle. Previously known as Ankara, social media has been buzzing with excitement as they began to try the new concept.

Their dinner experience offers a truly unique deal for tasting all that they have to offer. Ziyafet, as they call it, allows guests to try 2 hot dishes and 2 cold dishes per person for $39 each. Rather than being stuck in the traditional norm of a single appetizer and single entree per person, this gives attendees a glimpse into the future of dining.

Picture this: you start your meal off with ala’s house made Caraway Pita dipped into their signature Dried Cacik dip. Made with Çengelköy cucumber pickle, clothed yogurt, roasted garlic and mint powder, this incredible spread has a behind-the-scenes video found on their Instagram! A Söğüș Fennel & Tomato Salad then comes your way, loaded with fresh coriander, tahini yogurt and toasted sesame. As you take in the colors and flavors, your next two dishes are being meticulously prepared — the Pancar Falafel with beet sauce and toasted sesame, and a new spin on Tandir, confit lamb with smoked garlic yogurt and chili quince compote.

(more…)


According to the 2021 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs rankings, Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master’s in Information Technology is the nation’s fourth best and is ranked No. 1 for veterans.

The VT-MIT program, a joint venture offered through the College of Engineering and the Pamplin College of Business, maintains a top five ranking for the eighth consecutive year. The top placement attests to the program’s enduring commitment to supplying professionals in the field of information technology with the interdisciplinary and emerging skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

“The VT-MIT program appeals to individuals interested in the intersection of the more technical information technology capabilities and the people skills needed to manage today’s complex workplace,” said Parviz Ghandforoush, the program’s executive director and an associate dean for graduate programs.

The program combines a variety of disciplines within the College of Engineering and the Pamplin College of Business, including computer science, electrical and computer engineering, accounting and information systems, business information technology, and management.

“The VT-MIT program’s top rankings and the appreciative testimonials of our students and graduates underscore the superior quality of our program and its critical relevance for anyone seeking to move ahead professionally,” said Pamplin College of Business Dean Robert Sumichrast. “In today’s innovation-centered workplace, business knowledge and technology expertise have become critical dual strengths for career advancement.”

This year, U.S. News & World Report also ranked the master of information technology program as the No. 1 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology Program for Veterans.

“For veterans looking to enter the corporate job market, the VT-MIT program offers courses and certificates to mitigate the shortage of professionals in such IT fields as cybersecurity, data analytics, big data, health information technology and software development,” Ghandforoush said.

According to U.S. News & World Report methodology, veterans and active-duty service members gain the most from distance education that is affordable, accessible and reputable. The 2021 Best Online Programs for Veterans rankings measure these factors in consideration of financial benefits available specifically to people with military experience.

Learn more about Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master of Information Technology degree and 10 graduate certificate options at vtmit.vt.edu.


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

Featured Property of the Week: 5227 New Hampshire Avenue NW

“You’ll love this gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath row house from the minute you walk up the front steps to the pretty front porch (with views over a lovely park)! The first floor features an open floor plan and large, super-functional kitchen with granite countertops, and gas fireplace. A half-bath on the entry level adds to the functionality of the space. The house has plenty of storage space on every level, and big closets. The large basement has a full kitchen, two nice-size bedrooms, a full bath and living area. Upstairs are two master suites, one of which has dramatic cathedral ceilings and nice views over the park. Washer and dryer on upper bedroom level, as well as in the basement in-law suite. Loads of outdoor space for entertaining, including a back porch and yard. Off-street garage parking.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/4.5 BA semi-detached Federal style home in Georgetown that boasts 5,400 sq. ft. of luxury finishes and design across 4 levels — all for just under $5.5M.
  • Spacious 1 BR unit in The Mendota, a “Best Address in Kalorama,” with a newly renovated bathroom and kitchen.
  • “Just steps from H St, this [3 BR/3 BA] charming row house is the one you’ve been waiting for” with 2,000+ sq. ft. and has “has been loved and updated over the years,” including a new roof and fresh paint.
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a renovated 3 BR/3.5 BA Petworth interior row home with 3 fully finished levels and a starting bidding price of $599k.

The spring market is early, but it’s here! We’ve got 300+ open houses scheduled across the District this weekend. Make sure your agent has a strategy to keep you safe while searching for your next home. To see the full Open House List, click here.

  • 2724 12th Street NE #7 — $570,000 — Brookland
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Michael Sheridan
    “Located in Brookland, this stunning townhome style condo is like new! This modern, light-filled home has gorgeous hardwoods throughout the main level and hallway upstairs, custom window fixtures throughout, custom closet organizers, and an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. The modern kitchen boasts a beautiful island, gorgeous cabinetry, quartz countertops and gas cooking. The entire main level features an open floor plan and a nice patio off of the main entrance. The upper level has a spacious owner’s suite with two walk-in closets, a Juliet balcony and an attached owner’s suite bath showcasing a beautiful, modern shower with glass doors and a dual vanity. The second bedroom features huge windows and a perfect space for a home office or guest bedroom. The washer and dryer are conveniently located on the bedroom level. The home also features a private parking space, P12, that conveys with the property. Located within walking distance to everything that Brookland has to offer and the Metro, you will want for nothing!”
  • 1309 E Street SE #48 — $1,695,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sat. & Sun. 12-3 p.m. — Sean Ruppert
    Newly built (2021) home at Watkins Alley is a 3 BR/3.5 BA + Den loft-style 4-level home with an elevator to all levels, including both rooftop terraces.
  • 4343 39th Street NW — $4,750,000 — N. Cleveland Park
    Open Sun. 1-4 p.m. — Wicca Davidson
    “This unique property — ‘The Rest’ complete with an 1800’s Colonial mansion, a guesthouse, a gazebo, pergola, a grape arbour, playhouse, porte cochere, passive pond and the original millstone from Jones Mill — sits on just shy of half an acre and is only .2 miles to the Tenleytown Metro. Imagine, in the years to come, your family gatherings can take place in this beautiful piece of American history.”
  • 1000 New Jersey Avenue SE #PH05 — $389,900 — Capitol Riverfront
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Peter Frias
    1 BR penthouse unit at Capitol Hill Tower, a building loaded with amenities including a gym and indoor pool.
  • 288 N Street SW — $619,900 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sat. & Sun. 12-3 p.m. — Jay Portlance
    “This beautifully kept, 3 bedroom, 2 bath townhome is nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and in a gated community. Mid-century modern and industrial highlights can be found on the exterior, as well as the interior of the home.”
  • 534 Ingraham Street NW — $749,000 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Robert Crawford
    Beautifully renovated 3 BR/3.5 BA Colonial row home with 3 levels has been updated for 21st-century living and boasts a fenced-in backyard and patio space along with off-street parking.

Spring time is heating up! You’ve put off buying that home in 2020, now turn the page in 2021 with the purchase of a new home. Join us for our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on Saturday, March 6.

Talk to local lenders about getting a loan and learn the importance of hiring a real estate agent not only to help you in your search but to make a winning offer. You will even hear all about the home buying experience from a recent first-time home buyer.

View the dates below and sign up for our informative workshop.

Buy a home in 2021 and build equity while interest rates are still low!

  • March 6
  • April 3
  • May 1

(more…)


Located at 839 Kennedy Street NW, Eight 39 is a new condo building with residences currently available for sale.

With prices starting in the $350,000s and preferred lenders offering 0% down for qualified applicants, this is a perfect opportunity for first-time homebuyers. Why rent when you can own?

Each one- and two-bedroom unit is bright and light-filled, complete with premium, modern finishes — from quartz kitchen countertops and two-tone cabinetry to Porcelanosa bathroom tiles. Each unit has its own washer/dryer, and some units come with a private deck.

The building itself offers a number of amenities. For some fresh air, head up to the community rooftop and take in views of the city. If you need to destress, sweat it out in the fitness room, complete with a yoga studio. There’s even a dog-wash station for Fido.

Step outside the building, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Petworth. You’ll have access to a wide variety of restaurants, bars and breweries in the area. When the weather is nice, walk to one of the many parks or recreation areas, where you can play tennis or even take a swim. There’s also a conveniently located Safeway for grocery runs, and the Fort Totten Metro is a 30-minute walk (or 10-minute bike ride) away.

To date, 50% of Phase I has already sold. If you’re interested in one of these units, schedule a tour by visiting www.Eight39DC.com or calling 202-967-0039.


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

Featured Property of the Week: 1229 12th Street NW #206

“This classic D.C. condo centrally located in the coveted Logan Circle neighborhood is the ideal place to call home. Positioned in the heart of it all, this elegant top floor, two-level, corner unit is pre-inspected with repairs already completed. With a walk score of 98 and a transit score of 100, this condo is an urban dweller’s paradise! Logan Circle is D.C.’s “it” neighborhood — fun, funky, and close to everything. It is beautiful, trendy, pedestrian-friendly, and filled with terrific boutiques, restaurants, theaters, art galleries and bars. Think second-hand stores and avant-garde films, dive bars and elegant French restaurants.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/5.5 BA detached Colonial in Kalorama Heights with 9,000+ square feet across 4 stories includes a wide-open main level, 4-car garage parking, multiple terraces including a rooftop terrace all “perfect for [an] embassy, chancery or luxury residence” listed for $5.75M.
  • Interior Petworth townhouse with 4 BR/3.5 BA includes a large and private fenced-in backyard with room for grilling, playing, dog-running and off-street parking.
  • 2-level 3 BR/3.5 BA Ivy City condo just completed in 2020 at The Flats at Kendall.
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a detached Manor Park home with several caveats including AS-Is condition and the buyer being responsible for the eviction of the current non-paying residents with no proof of lease or agreement.

Thinking of buying a home this spring in D.C.? Take a look at these 25 D.C. neighborhood profiles.

Learn about the communities, local bars and restaurants, grocery stores, public transportation including travel times and what residents love about their neighborhood.  Plus they have beautiful photography from local D.C. photographers. Not every D.C. neighborhood is highlighted, but these are some of the most popular.

(more…)


View More Stories