There is a HUGE increase in the DC Open Houses scheduled across the District this weekend with 420 on the books so far. Spring is here and so is the blooming real estate market so if buying a home is something you want to do before the summer, this weekend is your time! Take a look below for some of our favorite Open House options and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

541 25th Place NE
  • 541 25th Place NE — $799,900 — Kingman Park
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Christopher Suranna & Colin Johnson
    “Welcome to this beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in the heart of Kingman Park, one of D.C.’s most vibrant and sought-after neighborhoods. Blending classic charm with modern luxury, this home offers thoughtful upgrades, elegant finishes, and a prime location just minutes from the H Street Corridor, Capitol Hill, and RFK Stadium. Step inside to discover a traditional main level featuring gleaming hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and abundant natural light.”
  • 653 Irving Street NW #8 — $635,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas
    “This penthouse at The Whitney offers the perfect balance of vibrant city living and a peaceful retreat. Built in 2019, the home features Southern and Eastern exposure, filling the space with natural light. The two-level layout thoughtfully places the 2 bedrooms and 2 baths upstairs, keeping them separate from the open living and entertaining areas below.”
  • 1309 E Street SE #35 — $1,200,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “This stunning four-level townhome offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a PERSONAL ELEVATOR — because luxury should always be effortless. The entry-level welcomes you with a versatile den, a spacious bedroom, a full bath, and a convenient laundry room.”
  • 2020 12th Street NW #117 — $550,000 — U Street Corridor
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Jason Lallis
    “Modern Loft Living in the Heart of U Street! Welcome to 2020 12th Street NW #117, an expansive 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath loft-style condo that perfectly blends industrial charm with modern elegance. Boasting 883 sq. ft. of open-concept living, this condo features soaring 10’+ ceilings and walls of 7’5” windows, filling the space with abundant natural light.”
  • 2837 Myrtle Avenue NE — $1,024,900 — Woodridge
    Open Sat. 12-2 & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — David Bediz
    “This stylish detached home in the sought-after Woodridge neighborhood is the perfect place to call your own! From the moment you arrive, you’ll be drawn to the charming curb appeal, featuring a deep front yard, fresh landscaping, and a covered patio.”
  • 110 Gallatin Street NW #13 — $525,000 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. — Balaram Owens
    “This extraordinarily unique 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom modern condo with a private rooftop deck is the best value 4-bedroom in the 20011 zip code! Offering 1,407 sq. ft. of turnkey living, this home is flooded with natural light from three exposures and features a large open layout with wide plank hardwood floors, a full-size stackable washer/dryer, and generous storage throughout.”
  • 1709 Independence Avenue SE #2 — $859,900 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Christine Nieva
    “Welcome to this stunning, fully renovated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome condo, perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Capitol Hill. Step inside to discover an open-concept living space that seamlessly integrates the updated kitchen, dining area, living room, and private deck.”
  • 3604 11th Street NW — $1,150,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “Step up from the charming, one-way residential street and through the quaint front garden into a true showplace. Be wowed immediately by the main floor, completely reimagined in 2020.”
  • 800 4th Street SW #S419 — $274,900 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “This spacious 621 sq. ft. one bedroom unit features an open floor plan designed for flexibility and efficiency. Expansive east-facing windows fill the space with natural light, making it feel bright and welcoming year-round.”
  • 2939 Van Ness Street NW #306 — $505,000 — Forest Hills
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Valerie Blake
    “Welcome to Van Ness East, a 443-unit condominium bordering on Rock Creek Park. Unit #306 features two bedrooms, two baths (one ensuite), a combination living room and dining room, and a renovated kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counters.”
  • 1353 East Capitol Street SE — $2,290,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Ricardo Vasquez
    “Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury in this exquisite Victorian semi-detached home. Expanded and beautifully renovated in 2007,

Address: 646 H Street NE PH1
Neighborhood: H St Corridor
Type: 2 BR, 2 (+1 half) BA condo — 1,102 sq. ft.
Listed: $949,000

Noteworthy: 2-story penthouse with a private rooftop and unobstructed views by Union Station

Perched above the trees with panoramic views of Northeast D.C., Penthouse 1 at the LEED-Certified, smoke-free Seven H community offers luxurious two-level living.

Built in 2020 with only 23 residences, this home features a rooftop deck, custom built-ins, and unique owner upgrades. High ceilings, clean lines, and floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and frame stunning city views.

The gourmet kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, a gas range, quartz countertops, a waterfall island, open shelving, and ample storage — perfect for cooking and entertaining. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly to the living area, featuring a custom media center and chic lighting. The airy primary suite includes floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, a Juliet balcony, and a spa-like bath with a double vanity and separate water closet. A coat closet, laundry closet, and powder room complete the main level.

Upstairs, a bright foyer doubles as a workstation, leading to a versatile second bedroom with an en-suite bath, double vanity, and soaking tub. The private rooftop deck offers space for al fresco dining and relaxation all year round.

Located steps from Solid State Books, The Little Grand, Daru, Hiraya, Maketto, Whole Foods, Orangetheory, and more, this home is a “Walker & Biker’s Paradise.” The DC Streetcar and Union Station (0.5 miles away) provide easy access throughout the city. Bike storage and building parking are available.

Welcome to stylish living in the Nation’s Capital! *Also available for rent*

Contact the Conway Group today!

Listed by:
Megan Conway — Conway Group of Compass
[email protected]
(202) 262-2815


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: 1309 E Street SE #35

1309 E Street SE #35

LEGO Build Preview — MORE PHOTOS COMING SOON: “Welcome to Watkins Alley, where modern design meets the perfect location in the heart of Capitol Hill! This stunning four-level townhome offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a PERSONAL ELEVATOR — because luxury should always be effortless. The entry level welcomes you with a versatile den, a spacious bedroom, a full bath, and a convenient laundry room. Upstairs, the main level is designed for both entertaining and relaxation, featuring an open-concept layout with a gourmet kitchen boasting Bosch appliances, gas cooking with exterior fan venting, a custom-paneled refrigerator, Italkraft cabinets, and Calacatta quartz countertops. The airy living and dining areas flow seamlessly, complemented by a stylish powder room. The third level is dedicated entirely to the grand primary suite, a private retreat with a huge walk-in closet and a spa-inspired bathroom showcasing a huge walk-in shower. The top floor is the ultimate flex space — complete with two private balconies, a wet bar, a wine fridge, and a full bath. Use it as a bedroom, guest room, or office… make it your own! Beyond the impeccable interiors, Watkins Alley offers exclusive amenities including two serene courtyards, underground parking (with a Bradyl Box Storage unit), bike storage, and a package delivery service (FETCH) for modern convenience. The location is truly unbeatable — just two blocks from the Metro and moments away from Capitol Hill’s most iconic destinations, including Eastern Market, Barracks Row, Pennsylvania Ave, Navy Yard, and The Wharf. This is more than just a home — it’s a lifestyle. Let’s help you call it home today!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 4 BR/4.5 BA French detached home in Kalorama with 4,700 total sq. ft. across 3 levels and features 2 fireplaces, marble flooring, several Juliette balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, a grand staircase, luxurious primary bedroom suite, a brick-walled backyard with patio, grassy space, outdoor fireplace and more — all for just under $5.5M.
  • “This extraordinarily unique 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom modern [Petworth] condo with a private rooftop deck is the best value 4-bedroom in the 20011 zip code! Offering 1,407 sq. ft. of turnkey living, this home is flooded with natural light from three exposures and features a large open layout with wide plank hardwood floors, a full-size stackable washer/dryer, and generous storage throughout.”
  • “This stylish detached [4 BR/3.5 BA] home in the sought-after Woodridge neighborhood is the perfect place to call your own! From the moment you arrive, you’ll be drawn to the charming curb appeal, featuring a deep front yard, fresh landscaping, and a covered patio.”
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a 3 BR/1 BA Brookland interior rowhome that will require several dumpsters worth of emptying out before remodeling can even begin and is being sold AS-IS with bidding beginning on March 31st.

Address: 2016 2nd Street NW Unit 1
Neighborhood: LeDroit Park
Type: 2 BR, 2 (+1 half) BA condo — 1,355 sq. ft.
Listed: $799,000

Noteworthy: 400 sq. ft. private roof with Monument Views

Experience the perfect blend of townhome charm and condo convenience in this stunning 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence spanning 3 levels and 1,355 square feet, complete with a private rooftop offering over 400 sq. ft. of outdoor living space.

The open floor plan living and dining room is ideal for both relaxing and entertaining, featuring wood floors, a spacious living area, and ample room for a dining table. The chef’s kitchen is a true centerpiece, with exposed wood beams, a stylish backsplash, a generous breakfast bar, a pantry, and plenty of cabinet storage space. A convenient half bathroom is located just off the living room, perfect for guests.

The primary bedroom, located on the third floor, is an immaculate retreat that provides a full suite-like living experience. It features two expansive closets with custom organization systems, ensuring all your storage needs are met. The primary bathroom is a luxurious spa oasis, complete with a dual sink vanity, and massive soaking tub, and a spa-like shower for ultimate relaxation.

The best part of the home is the private roof deck, where you can entertain or unwind while enjoying panoramic views of D.C., including the iconic Washington Monument, and Capitol Dome. Enjoy the convenience of strolling to Whole Foods for your grocery needs, or explore local spots like The Red Hen and Boundary Stone for a night out.

Parking is always readily available in front of the home!

Listed by:
Leslie Backoff — TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
[email protected]
(202) 431-7440


We’re seeing a lot of consistency among the spring market with another batch of ~350 DC Open Houses scheduled this weekend across the District. Now that the sun stays up longer and the temperatures are staying up too, it’s time to get a jump on your home-buying journey. Take a look below for some of our favorite Open House options and to see the full DC Open House List, click here

1353 East Capitol Street SE
  • 1353 East Capitol Street SE — $2,290,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Ricardo Vasquez
    “Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury in this exquisite Victorian semi-detached home. Expanded and beautifully renovated in 2007, this residence offers over 4,000 sqft of elegant living space, with a fully updated lower level completed in 2022. Upon entry, you are welcomed into a grand, open-concept living area that seamlessly flows into a formal dining room, ideal for entertaining. The gourmet kitchen, bathed in abundant natural light from its southern and eastern exposures, features sleek ceramic tile flooring and a cozy breakfast nook. The second floor boasts a spacious primary suite with a luxurious oversized ensuite bathroom and a second bedroom offering direct access to a full bathroom. It also features a sun-drenched third bedroom and a versatile fourth bedroom, currently designed as a stunning art studio. The fully renovated lower level offers private front and rear entrances, a bedroom space, an expansive family room, a full bathroom, and a chef’s dream kitchen that is nothing short of spectacular. This rare opportunity to own a sophisticated and meticulously crafted home.”’
  • 1117 Fern Street NW — $1,350,000 — Shepherd Park
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Jason Lallis
    “Stunning Renovated Home in Shepherd Park — Where Modern Luxury Meets Classic Charm Welcome to 1117 Fern Street NW, a meticulously renovated gem in D.C.’s sought-after Shepherd Park neighborhood. This Federal-style semi-detached rowhome seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern convenience, offering a gourmet kitchen, upper and lower-level laundry, and a versatile in-law suite with a private entrance — designed for flexibility and ease.”
  • 800 4th Street SW #S419 — $274,900 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “This spacious 621 sq. ft. one bedroom unit features an open floor plan designed for flexibility and efficiency. Expansive east-facing windows fill the space with natural light, making it feel bright and welcoming year-round.”
  • 1721 Euclid Street NW — $1,750,000 — Mount Pleasant
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Joe Himali
    “This meticulously maintained and updated [7 BR/3 FB/2 HB] house has everything you could want — from a spectacular two-level roof deck with a hot tub to a fully-legal two-bedroom rental unit in the basement! Sunlight bathes the house from the south-facing bay windows highlighting the soaring ceilings and freshly refinished hardwood floors.”
  • 1404 Holbrook Street NE #2 — $429,000 — Trinidad
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — David Treanor
    “Experience this 2020 fully remodeled stunning two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in Trinidad! Designed for both comfort and style, Unit #2 features beautiful wide-plank solid white oak flooring, soaring ceilings with recessed lighting, with an open, airy layout.”
  • 2939 Van Ness Street NW #306 — $505,000 — Forest Hills
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Valerie Blake
    “Unit #306 features two bedrooms, two baths (one ensuite), a combination living room and dining room, and a renovated kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counters.”
  • 1709 Independence Avenue SE #2 — $859,900 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Christine Nieva
    “Welcome to this stunning, fully renovated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome condo, perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Capitol Hill. Water is included in the condo monthly of $265/month! Step inside to discover an open-concept living space that seamlessly integrates the updated kitchen, dining area, living room, and private deck.”
  • 1411 Ridgeview Way NW — $2,450,000 — Palisades
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Stacy Berman
    “This elegant, executive-level residence is created for entertaining and easy living. Forget that this is built as a townhome — it’s designed like a single-family home with spacious rooms and such a comfortable flow. Here you have a layout for comfortable hanging-out, cocktail receptions, large dinners along with guests and office privacy.”
  • 4230 Edson Place NE — $435,000 — Deanwood
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Russell Brazil
    “Amazing opportunity for your buyer to scoop up an impossibly-great interest rate for this turnkey 3 bed/2 bath renovated home. End-unit with tons of natural sunlight, newer windows and roof.”
  • 3604 11th Street NW — $1,150,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “Step up from the charming, one-way residential street and through the quaint front garden into a true showplace. Be wowed immediately by the main floor, completely reimagined in 2020.”
  • 311 7th Sreett NE #4 — $375,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Charming 1 BR/1 BA Condo in Prime Capitol Hill Location Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience in this beautifully updated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo nestled in the heart of Capitol Hill.”
  • 70 N SE #409 — $540,000 — Navy Yard
    Open Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas
    “Looking for a sleek, modern condo with a private balcony, assigned parking, and extra storage? You’ve just found it!. This stylish unit features soaring ceilings, rich Kahrs Canvas wood floors, and floor-to-ceiling thermal paned windows that fill the space with natural light.”

Serving D.C. and Virginia, Simply Management is owned and operated by Hannah Juricic, who leases and manages almost one hundred and fifty units across the city and over the river. These properties are managed only by Hannah and her assistant.

Property management can be simple: list your home, secure an applicant, sign a lease, handle the move in, collect the rent, and handle maintenance issues as they come up.

The stress is in the details.

D.C. has some of the strictest regulations surrounding rental properties, and these regulations and laws can affect a decision to sell. Apart from the regulations, property management itself takes time, attention, and experience — that’s why we do it as a full-time job.

Simply Management handles the management process from start to finish. From the initial consultation walkthrough and overview of services through the move in, lease renewals, and property maintenance, our fees our competitive and our service to both landlords and tenants is unmatched.

Our success can be attributed to a few straightforward factors:

  • We keep a small client base so that we can provide excellent response times and give each property quality support
  • We partner with quality contractors with work guarantees
  • We educate and support residents so that they are incentivized and empowered to keep the property in excellent condition

Contact us ([email protected]) today for more information. Whether you are just starting on your landlord journey or have experience, we’re happy to discuss whether we’re the right fit!


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:  ​​70 N St SE #409

70 N Se #409

“Looking for a sleek, modern condo with a private balcony, assigned parking, and extra storage? You’ve just found it! Welcome to 70 N SE #409, where thoughtful design meets everyday convenience in the heart of Navy Yard. This stylish unit features soaring ceilings, rich Kahrs Canvas wood floors, and floor-to-ceiling thermal paned windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful, with Bosch stainless steel appliances, gas cooking, soft-close cabinetry with white Lucido slab fronts and black Nouveau hardware, Silestone countertops, and an Emser glass backsplash. The bedroom offers a custom walk-in closet and an en suite bath (also accessible through the hall). Plus, enjoy the convenience of in-unit laundry, a 4’ x 5’ storage unit, and a dedicated garage parking space. The building’s amenities are just as impressive, featuring daily concierge service, a Zen Garden, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a rooftop lounge—perfect for catching a game at Nats Park. Living here means you’re steps from the Metro, top-rated restaurants, and all the energy of Navy Yard. Don’t miss your chance to make this your home!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a gorgeous and historic 4BR/3FB/2HB renovated row home in Georgetown with 3,400 sq. ft. across 4 levels and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a giant skylight, 2 fireplaces, in-home elevator, 1 fireplace, built-in bookcases, and a rear brick-walled terrace with a patio, garden, pond, and waterfall —all for $3.95M.
  • BACK ON THE MARKET: “A hidden treasure, a must-see to truly appreciate the atmosphere and charm of the space! An unbeatable price for this premier one-of-a-kind unit. Looks like new. This 2 BR, 2 BA Luxury Corner Unit in the Corey Condominium is one of the only amenity-rich condo Buildings within 5 minutes of the vibrant Union Market.”
  • “Welcome to this gorgeous Two-level Rowhouse Condo in the heart of Petworth, offering modern living at its finest! Featuring garage parking, a private rooftop deck, and three spacious primary bedrooms plus a den and three full bathrooms, this home is ideal for today’s lifestyle.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 4BR/3BA 3-level LeDroit Park interior rowhome being sold in AS-IS condition but “requires a comprehensive renovation” to return the home to it’s former glory and “holds immense potential for transformation into a contemporary urban oasis or a stunning historic residence.”

Two gowns worn by Oscar-nominated actor Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]) are on view at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.

The special installation, “Making a Statement,” will be on view through March 2026.

Both gowns were a custom collaboration, designed by Gucci and Indigenous artist Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche) of Ironhorse Quillwork. The gowns were worn by Gladstone the evening of March 10, 2024, to the 96th Academy Awards and the Vanity Fair Oscars party. Gladstone was the first Native American nominated for best actress for her work in the film Killers of the Flower Moon.

Join us for these weekend programs:

Public Programs
Free | National Museum of the American Indian

Friday, March 14, 7 p.m.
After Hours: Celebrating Indigenous Fashion

The museum hosts a special after-hours event in celebration of “Making a Statement.” Visitors can see the special installation, appreciate contemporary Indigenous fashion with a unique showcase, participate in hands-on activities by visiting teaching carts, and enjoy music by DJ Jon Ray all evening. Light food and beverages (including beer and wine) available for purchase. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrating Indigenous Fashion

Celebrate the power and beauty of Indigenous fashion and design. Hear from Indigenous designers who create looks at the intersection of Indigenous tradition and contemporary fashion and support their work.

Visitors can get a close look at a first-of-its-kind collaboration between quillwork artist Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche) and haute couture brand Gucci, and appreciate contemporary Indigenous fashion with a unique showcase.

Visit AmericanIndian.si.edu for event updates.


It’s looking like it will be a beautiful weekend with temps reaching near the 60s and another batch of almost 350 DC Open Houses scheduled across the District. See below for some of our favorite Open House options and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

3604 11th Street NW
  • 3604 11th Street NW — $1,150,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “IT’S 3604 THE WIN! It’s the stunning finishes, eye-popping upgrades, and quality renovation. Combine all these vaunted variables and put them in one of the District’s most inviting neighborhoods, and 3604 11th St. NW hits ALL the high notes! Step up from the charming, one-way residential street and through the quaint front garden into a true showplace. Be wowed immediately by the main floor, completely reimagined in 2020. The Lifeproof LVP floors with radiant heat are sumptuous, but the gas fire feature adds an even cooler degree of cozy. The overflowing kitchen and dining area pop with Carrara Marmi quartz counters and a gorgeous, custom-addition butcher-block bar. Just beyond, the private back deck is perfect for outdoor entertaining or a low-key dinner al fresco.”
  • 3416 Croffut Place SE — $399,000 — Fort Dupont Park
    Open Sat. 1-4 p.m. — Kriby Mitchell
    “Discover a beautifully transformed 3-bedroom townhome nestled in the charming Fort Dupont neighborhood. This move-in ready gem has been lovingly renovated, showcasing gleaming hardwood floors, fresh coats of paint, and an abundance of natural light.”
  • 1411 Ridgeview Way NW — $2,450,000 — Palisades
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Stacy Berman
    “This elegant, executive-level residence is created for entertaining and easy living. Forget that this is built as a townhome — it’s designed like a single-family home with spacious rooms and such a comfortable flow. Here you have a layout for comfortable hanging-out, cocktail receptions, large dinners along with guests and office privacy.”
  • 1239 Simms Place NE #1 — $419,900 — Trinidad
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Denise Greene
    “Experience the perfect blend of modern elegance and city convenience at 1239 Simms Place NE, Apt 1, a beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo in the highly sought-after Trinidad neighborhood! This open-concept home boasts gorgeous hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and oversized windows that flood the space with natural light.”
  • 456 Randolph Street NW #2 — $950,000 — Petworth
    Open Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Graham Grossman
    “This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo in Petworth offers 2,000 sq. ft. of open-concept living with high ceilings, abundant natural light, and two rooms stacked with skylights. The spacious layout includes two private balconies, perfect for relaxing.”
  • 2804 Rhode Island Avenue NE — $1,099,999 — Woodridge
    Open Fri. 5-7 p.m. — Alexandra Williams & Molly Branson
    “Come visit this spectacular home! The most exclusive house on the block has all the comforts you deserve in a high-level living experience. This home has it all; outdoor living, breathtaking views from the fourth-level Penthouse, safety and room for play, extraordinary off-street parking in the city” and more.
  • 4920 Loughboro Road NW — $5,500,000 — Kent
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Brian Thomas
    “With painstaking attention to detail and dedication to quality, this stunning [7 BR/8 FB/2 HB] residence is a standout. Truly, this property resides in a class of its own, wonderfully enhanced by its enviable address.”

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

The polygraph examination is a key component of the security clearance process for individuals seeking access to classified information in sensitive government positions, usually within the Intelligence Community (IC).

The test measures physiological responses — such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration — while the subject answers a series of questions. The goal is to determine whether the individual is being truthful, particularly about issues that could pose a security risk, such as drug use, criminal activity, or foreign contacts.

However, some applicants may find themselves in a situation where they fail the polygraph, either due to physiological reasons, anxiety, or other factors. Understanding how to handle this outcome is essential for safeguarding your clearance prospects. We represent individuals in polygraph and security clearance matters.

When is the Polygraph Exam Used?

Polygraph tests are typically used during the background investigation process for higher-level security clearances. They are discussed in Security Executive Agent Directive 2. In some polygraphs, the examiner asks a series of yes-or-no questions related to national security concerns, such as whether the applicant has committed espionage or had unauthorized contact with foreign nationals.

The test is meant to be one of many tools in determining a person’s reliability and trustworthiness. While polygraphs are not foolproof and can be influenced by a variety of factors — such as nervousness, medical conditions, or even the examiner’s approach — the results can have a significant impact on the outcome of a clearance investigation. A failed polygraph does not automatically result in disqualification, but it is an important red flag that must be addressed.

Failing a Polygraph Exam

If you fail a polygraph exam, it is important to remember that this does not necessarily mean the end of your security clearance process. The next step typically involves a follow-up interview with the agency conducting the investigation, where you may be asked to explain the results of the polygraph. During this interview, it is crucial to be honest, calm, and cooperative.

In some cases, polygraph results may be inconclusive or misinterpreted, and further clarification or re-testing might be necessary. If the failure is related to a specific issue, such as a misunderstanding or anxiety, providing evidence or context may help clear up any doubts. However, if there is a legitimate concern — such as involvement in illegal activities or a failure to disclose critical information during the background check — the results could jeopardize your eligibility for a security clearance.

Additional Steps & Subsequent Polygraph Examinations

If you are unable to pass the polygraph, you should take immediate steps to address the issue. First, consider requesting a second (or third) examination, especially if you believe that anxiety or other non-deceptive factors affected the results. You may also want to consult with a security clearance attorney with expertise in polygraph examinations who can help you understand the security clearance process.

If there are specific issues that led to the failure — such as a past criminal act or undisclosed financial problems — you must be prepared to address these concerns in a transparent and honest manner. Failure to do so could be interpreted as a lack of trustworthiness, which could ultimately harm your clearance prospects. In some cases it could lead to a Statement of Reasons proposing to deny a security clearance.

To avoid potential issues with a polygraph in future clearance applications, it is vital to maintain a high level of honesty and transparency throughout the process. Review your background information carefully and disclose any possible issues, even if they may seem minor. If you are particularly concerned about the polygraph or the questions you will be asked, consider preparing in advance by speaking with a security clearance lawyer who can advise you on how to handle the process.

Final Thoughts

A failed polygraph for a security clearance is a serious issue, but it does not necessarily spell the end of your clearance application. By understanding the polygraph process, being prepared to address any concerns in the aftermath, and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can increase your chances of successfully navigating this challenge.

The key to handling a polygraph failure is to remain honest, transparent, and cooperative throughout the process. With the right approach, you may still be able to resolve any issues and move forward in the security clearance process.

Contact Us

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.


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