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Three Ways The Weather Is Coming For Your Car

By PoP Sponsor (a)

When the local temperature is swinging from a sweltering 100℉  to the 70’s and soaking, your car is likely to be struggling alongside you. External temperatures can have a variety of both direct and indirect effects that can be mitigated with routine maintenance, avoiding costly repair or detailing jobs.

Three things to monitor as the seasons and weather patterns change:

  • Tire pressure: Just as tires lose air pressure as the temperatures drop in winter, tires are more likely to blow out in the summer because they gain about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) pressure for every 10℉ increase in temperature. When traveling around road hazards (nails, potholes, etc.) that makes it more likely a puncture could turn into a tire replacement rather than a patch or repair.
  • Interior seals and mildew: Oh the humidity! If you’re leaving your car for extended periods of time in a humid environment, it can cause water to gather in the rubber gaskets and seals around windows, your sunroof, and even interior components. If you’ve held onto your vehicle for a while, some of those gaskets or rubber tubing may already be dried/cracked and due for replacement.
  • Engine/transmission integrity: Heavy rain or driving in deep water can cause substantial damage to your vehicle. Rain itself can contain corrosive elements (industrial pollutants) that damage your paint job over time. (Getting your car waxed can prevent that damage.) Additionally, water that gathers in the headlights, or that can penetrate your engine compartment through worn seals or submersion can easily cause permanent damage and many thousands of dollars in repairs to ensure your vehicle is driveable and safe.

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DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

The second weekend of August seems to be mirroring last week with just under 260 opens on the docket for D.C. While that number is lower than previous months, we’re rapidly approaching back-to-school and the fall market so don’t delay, check out some of our favorite open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 922 8th Street NE — $1,595,000 — H Street Corridor
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Kristen Schifano
    “Introducing the latest custom-built new construction developed by William Andrew Homes. Welcome home to 922 8th St NE, where luxury and modern elegance are perfectly balanced to create the ultimate living experience in the bustling H Street corridor. Upon arrival, you are greeted with a timeless classic federal architecture, beautifully landscaped front yard, and expansive Trex deck front porch. As you enter, the main level is filled with natural light, highlighting the stylish finishes and attention to detail throughout. Gleaming white oak floors unify the main living area to the gourmet kitchen, which is complete with custom white cabinets, backsplash, and a wine fridge. Entertaining guests is effortless with show-stopping Wolf and Thermador appliances. The kitchen is perfectly situated by the back wall-to-wall 3-panel glass door that leads to the enclosed backyard. The outdoor spaces of this home are a true oasis, featuring a sizable Trex deck and parking pad with a private 16′ roll-up remote controlled garage door. On the upper level, you’ll discover the spacious primary suite with a 20 ft vaulted ceiling, complete with an ensuite bathroom and a large walk-in closet. Two additional well-appointed bedrooms, a hall bathroom, and a convenient laundry area complete this floor, providing comfort and functionality. The fully finished basement offers even more living space with room for relaxation, recreation, and storage. The fourth full bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, additional washer/dryer and two walk-out doors make it perfect for renting. Just wait, it keeps getting better! This unbeatable location is minutes to Capitol Hill and H Street. You are surrounded by all of what D.C. has to offer — award-winning restaurants, National Mall, gyms, Shops, Union Market, Union Station — the list goes on and on. What more could you ask for? This property is the epitome of class and sophistication, offering an exclusive lifestyle for the discerning buyer who demands nothing but the best. Come see this rare gem for yourself!”
  • 1495 Newton Street NW #101 — $394,999 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “This spacious one-bedroom unit offers a truly luxurious living experience with its large and inviting kitchen, featuring new high-end appliances. Gleaming hardwood floors lead the way into the open-concept living area, where the recessed lights create an inviting ambiance for relaxing and entertaining alike.”
  • 3825 Commodore Joshua Barney Drive NE — $630,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Amanda Steinmuller
    “This townhome has been lovingly cared for and refreshed by the original owner. There is an open floor plan for living and entertaining and original hardwood flooring sets the perfect tone throughout.”
  • 2540 Massachusetts Ave NW #106 — $400,000 — Kalorama
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Joe Himali
    “This charming one-bedroom, one-bathroom cooperative at 2540 Massachusetts Avenue, NW is perfectly located in the historic neighborhood of Kalorama, renowned for its architectural beauty and rich heritage. Step inside to unit #106 and be greeted by the timeless allure of original oak hardwood floors, soaring ceilings and gracious room dimensions.”
  • 2912 26th Street NE — $1,795,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Reinaldo Catarino
    “Introducing a rare new construction in Washington, D.C., a farmhouse nestled in a quiet street in the heart of Woodridge steps from Langdon Park. The farmhouse boasts an abundance of windows, allowing natural light to flood every corner of its spacious interior. With 5 bedrooms (AND a large room in the basement as a 6th potential bedroom), 4.5 bathrooms, you’ll find ample room for both relaxation and entertaining.”
  • 718 Park Road NW #1 — $300,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. — Marina Sorbie & Andres Serafini
    “Nestled in a pet-friendly boutique condominium building this property offers a harmonious blend of comfort and convenience. One of the best things about it is that it comes with a rare 2-car tandem parking space, so you and your vehicles will always have plenty of room.”
  • 2122 Rand Place NE — $975,000 — Arboretum
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Mandy & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “Nestled next to the US National Arboretum and the newly renovated Arboretum rec center. Contemporary bungalow. Expansive and fully fenced corner lot. FULL HOME RENOVATION IN 2016 — kitchen, all bathrooms, HVAC, tankless water heater, custom windows, wood floors, etc. New roof 2021 with lifetime transferrable warranty.”

Real Estate Fresh Finds: August 9

By PoP Sponsor (a)

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: 2834 Chancellors Way NE

“Ready for DC Living at its best? Welcome to this 3 BR, 3.5 BA eco-friendly townhome beauty built by the well-respected builder, EYA. In this Barton model, enjoy lots of flexible space and comfortable living in central Brookland’s Chancellors Row. Built in 2014, this home has a contemporary vibe, open floor plan and 4-level living with tons of “pluses”, including front-facing the green space courtyard (no cars or streets in front of your home) and deck accessible from the kitchen — great place for grilling! From the courtyard you are welcomed by a charming front porch, inviting foyer and double doors that lead to a light-filled home office/den with full window! Then notice the access to an expanded storage area in the attached one-car garage with epoxy flooring and dry wall. Upstairs, you will find the Main Level (2nd level) with living room, dining room, powder room and delightful chef’s kitchen and breakfast bar. Notice the attractive backsplash, custom cabinetry, pantry, stunning granite counters, SS appliances, plus dual kitchen sink and a convenient lazy Susan. The glass door in the sun-filled kitchen offers access to the outdoor deck! Gleaming hardwood floors are on the main level and on the stairs to the upper BR level. All this offers an open concept with a wall of windows on the main level & recessed lights + a ceiling fan with light in the living room. The 3rd Level has a generous size Primary BR with large walk-in closet, luxurious en-suite Primary BA with seated shower and dual vanity, 2nd BR with en-suite BA plus, convenient stacked washer and dryer in hallway and view of grassy common area. The 4th Level with panoramic views overlooking D.C., has a 3rd BR with its own private BA + a Bonus Room/Loft — perfect for relaxing and fun times! To top it all off is the roof top terrace to enjoy morning coffee or beautiful sunsets! Also, see tree top views, as well as the view of the Basilica steeple from this pretty home. A definite plus is the Upper-level with a new AC. This special community offers a play area for the younger generation plus sidewalks and street lights.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/4.5 BA end-unit rowhome in Georgetown with nearly 2,800 square feet across 3 levels and features a rooftop patio, 4 off-street parking spaces, large windows, formal dining room, mudroom, fenced-in rear patio and garden as well as a separate lower level 1 BR/1 BA unit ideal for an Airbnb or in-law suite — all for $2.6M.
  • “SPECTACULAR 2BR CONDO WITH ULTIMATE CHEFS PRO KITCHEN IN THE HEART OF MT. PLEASANT! This A+ condo gem provides the ideal blend of comfort, charm, privacy, and urban convenience. The modern open concept floorpan and large windows provide functional living/dining/cooking spaces bathed in natural light. Gleaming plank flooring and LED lighting throughout.”
  • “Petworth roof deck with open concept kitchen. New construction 3 bed 3.5 bath with 1,754 sq. ft. spanning two floors, private parking space with automatic garage door schedule to be installed. Floor to ceiling windows. Dedicated washer/dryer. High ceilings. Large backyard space with room for parking.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 2 BR/1 BA upper-level condo with a fireplace in Fort Lincoln that will need some deep cleaning and renovating prior to moving into the unit.

Make a Difference at This School Supplies Drive This Thursday!

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Help DC Fray and Founders Row pack the backpack and stock the lockers this school year on Thursday, August 10.

You can earn one raffle entry for every three items you donate and enjoy lawn games, free snacks and Lost Boy Cider tastings. Plus, meet with local schools and children’s foundations to get involved.

Pencil us into your schedule to make a difference for underprivileged youth and have some fun while doing it!

How to Find the Best House Cleaner in DC

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Looking to get your home professionally cleaned?

A quick Google search will give you dozens of options — but not all home cleaning services are created equally. This is an important decision, so before you choose, consider:

  • The reviews. Read through Google and Yelp reviews and note the average star rating. Well-Paid Maids, for example, has more than 200 Google reviews with a 4.9-star average.
  • How cleaners are treated. Too many professional cleaners are underpaid and treated poorly. But Well-Paid Maids is on a mission to change that. They pay cleaners, who are W-2 employees, a starting wage of $23 an hour and provide benefits. Employees rave about the company’s flexibility, too.
  • The cleaning supplies (if they even provide them). Many cleaning companies rely on harsh chemicals. These are unhealthy for not only you, your family and your pets but also cleaners. Well-Paid Maids uses the safest cleaning products, rated by the Environmental Working Group.
  • What’s included. Make sure your cleaning includes vacuuming, mopping and dusting. Sinks, toilets, showers and appliance exteriors should also be included in a standard cleaning!
  • Legal and safety precautions. For example, Well-Paid Maids interviews prospective employees, conducts background checks and has insurance for general liability. On the off chance something should break during a cleaning, their insurance covers damages up to $500,000.
  • Availability and rates. Look for a cleaning company that charges a flat rate. This ensures you will never get a surprise bill. You’ll also want to find a company that doesn’t require you to book months in advance! When you visit Well-Paid Maids’ website, click “Book now” to check availability and rates.

Have any questions? Drop them in the comments section, send us an email or give us a call! We’d love to hear from you.

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

As we enter August, we are seeing a slight lull in the inventory and available open houses in the District with only 260 scheduled for this weekend. This time of year is peak vacation weeks so we expect to see a bounce back soon. Take a look at some of our favorite open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

Open Sun. 1-4PM — Lorielle Akintunde

“We invite you to your new DREAM home in the heart of Randall Heights! This immaculate 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home features the perfect taste of simplicity and comfort making it the perfect home to host your many gatherings! The two-level floor plan is flooded with natural light throughout. The main level was renovated in 2021. The living room with a bay window opens up to the gourmet kitchen & dining room. Offering simple charm for the versatile space, perfect for entertaining or a cozy retreat to unwind after a long day. The kitchen boasts sleek quartz countertops & oversized island allowing for ample space for your dining experience. LVP flooring featured through the home adds another touch of sophistication! The French doors in the dining room lead to the patio and fenced-in backyard. The upper level has a second family area along with the primary bedroom and en suite & two additional bedrooms. The siding, refrigerator, & carpet were replaced in 2023. Perfect for any commuter, this home boasts a one-car garage and driveway. You’ve got the best-of-both worlds in the neighborhood! Enjoy the convenience of Lidl for your grocery needs, within the long awaited Skyland Town Center home to Roaming Rooster, Mezeh, &Pizza, Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Trek Bike, Skyland Nail & Spa and DC’s ONLY drive-through Starbucks! Don’t miss this opportunity to call this stunning home yours!”

Open Fri. 5-7, Sat. & Sun. 1-3PM — Kristen Schifano & Dina Thomas

“Right in the heart of Logan Circle, this two-story, contemporary loft is a rare find! As you enter the first floor, you are greeted with a spacious, light-filled living space complete with floor to ceiling windows, 18-20ft ceilings and a half bath. Upstairs you’ll find a lofted bedroom suite with a full bath and a 8′ x 6′ walk-in closet. A spiral staircase connects the two spaces.”

Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 — Joel Nelson

“COMMANDING corner captivates with RADIANT renovation! Striking wrap-around yard and Southern Magnolia welcome you home to the heart of the Capital’s vibrant food and entertainment zones – steps to Union Market or H Street districts. Total transformation delivers new systems, layout, walls, windows, wiring plus fine finishes and fixtures throughout.”

Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3PM — Kevin Wood

“This spacious one-bedroom unit offers a truly luxurious living experience with its large and inviting kitchen, featuring new high-end appliances. Gleaming hardwood floors lead the way into the open-concept living area, where the recessed lights create an inviting ambiance for relaxing and entertaining alike.”

Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3PM — Eric Halstrom

“Relish this rare and inviting Capitol Hill END-ROW townhome that requires your immediate attention. Simply book an appointment and come out and see, then play the part of owner to be. Enter to find running hardwood floors, living and dining spaces that graciously support both, then arriving at the kitchen, contemporary yet timeless granite and tile, deep Farmhouse sink, custom measured cabinets, and an island awaiting your culinary masterpiece.”

Open Sat. 12-2 & Sun. 1-3PM — Josh Zuares

“Boasting one bedroom and one full bathroom, Unit 509 welcomes you with warm exposures and clean open sight-lines. Rounded corners soften the sight-line and epitomize the Art Deco style preserved in the buildings bold architecture, while drawing your eye toward the floor to ceiling windows, which flood the unit with natural light and reveal breathtaking tree top views of Cathedral Heights.”

Dog Days Sidewalk Sale is BACK This Saturday, August 5

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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It’s the hottest sidewalk sale of the year, featuring everything from local businesses, artists and artisans, to national businesses this Saturday, August 5 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

This year’s 24th annual sale will span the Logan Circle and U Street neighborhoods — stroll hundreds of great deals and unique finds, raffle prizes, as well as food and drink specials.

Check out all of the sweet deals and vendor locations — bookmark this map for later!

60+ Participating Businesses & Vendors:

View the rest of the Dog Days vendors and event details here. See you there!

Legal Insider: Defending Federal Employees in Disciplinary Cases

By PoP Sponsor (a)

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.

Approximately 20,000 federal employees are subject to disciplinary actions a year. Our nationwide federal employee lawyers represent federal employees in these disciplinary cases. Each disciplinary action defense is different and legal assistance is necessary by attorneys familiar with federal employment law.

Disciplinary Process for Federal Employees

There are various types of disciplinary actions for federal employees. These can include letters of counseling, reprimands, suspensions, demotions, and removals. For most serious disciplinary actions, referred to as adverse actions (usually removals), a federal employee will first receive a notice of the proposed discipline and the opportunity to respond. A proposal will typically have an explanation of the conduct or issues leading to the proposed disciplinary action.

If a federal employee is issued a notice of proposed disciplinary action, they will have the opportunity to contest it before it becomes final. Most permanent federal employees (past their probationary period) are entitled to due process. A federal employee can choose to provide a written response, an oral response, or both. We often recommend providing both oral and written responses.

Request Disciplinary Materials

In most disciplinary cases, it is important for federal employees to request all of the materials that have been relied upon by the agency in proposing the discipline. Sometimes they are attached to the proposal, and other times they must be requested. We request these materials before responding on behalf of federal employees at the beginning of a case.

Draft a Written Response

It is important to prepare a full written response to the allegations in proposed disciplinary cases. These responses are typically 5 to 20 pages in length, depending on the underlying facts and number of charges. Most written responses are typically due anywhere from 7 to 30 days after a proposal is given to a federal employee. The written response will address the alleged charges of misconduct or performance and any relevant mitigating factors (also known as the Douglas factors). In our responses, we also attach available evidence that contradicts the charges. Additionally, we attach declarations, affidavits, good performance records, character support letters, and other helpful exhibits.

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Real Estate Fresh Finds: August 2

By PoP Sponsor (a)

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: 1225 13th Street NW #711

“Right in the heart of Logan Circle, this two-story, contemporary loft is a rare find! As you enter the first floor, you are greeted with a spacious, light-filled living space complete with floor to ceiling windows, 18-20ft ceilings and a half bath. Upstairs you’ll find a lofted bedroom suite with a full bath and a 8′ x 6′ walk-in closet. A spiral staircase connects the two spaces. There is elevator access from both the living space on floor 7 and bedroom level on floor 8. Freshly painted throughout, Dishwasher (2022), Nest Controlled Central Air and Heat, In-unit Washer/Dryer, storage unit, On-site office manager Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and is pet friendly. This unbeatable location is just seconds to grocery stores, restaurants, 14th Street Corridor, metro stations and downtown D.C. Stop by one of the open houses to see this unicorn for yourself!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a completely renovated 6 BR/6.5 BA detached Colonial in Georgetown with 4,700+ total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features a library, multiple fireplaces, an epic primary suite with ensuite spa-bath, 1-car garage and a gorgeous private fenced-in backyard with a patio, outdoor fireplace and maintenance-free turf lawn — all for $5.75M.
  • “Charming one-bedroom apartment with private outdoor area located in the desirable neighborhood of Kalorama, featuring 515sf of living area with 10ft ceiling in an open and sun-filled layout. The living room includes oversized windows and a warm wood-burning fireplace.”
  • “Rare H Street-Adjacent Opportunity Awaits Your Vision! Introducing a unique opportunity to transform a traditional row home into a modern masterpiece. This as-is estate sale, located a mere third of a mile from the vibrant H Street Corridor, is a rare find in the heart of Washington D.C. Situated on E Street NE, this property offers over 1,500 square feet of potential.”
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a 3 BR/1 BA end-unit rowhome in NoMa with bidding already underway and the property can only be walked around, not entered with the auction starting at $225k.

Massive Discount on Remodelmate’s New Collections

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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We are excited to announce a special offer for PoPville readers! For a limited time, we’re offering a massive discount on our brand-new Collections exclusively for customers in and around the DMV.

We understand the importance of providing excellent value and exceptional experiences, and we wanted to express our gratitude for the years of support by offering this exclusive discount to PoPville readers. Whether you’ve been a previous customer or this is your first time using Remodelmate, this offer is our way of saying thank you for your continued support and trust in our brand. 

Here are the details of our limited-time offer:

  1. Reduced prices by 28% to 44% ($2,000-$8,000 off), depending on your bathroom’s layout
  2. White glove ordering and delivery of materials included, for free
  3. Schedule installation in as little as one week while availability permits

Build your quote online today and book your project before August 15, 2023, to take advantage of this deal.*

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