Your car is designed to move smoothly across the surface of the road, and the components that make up your suspension are part of what keeps your car stable. When you hit an uneven surface or crevice, you may feel the car jump or jerk — but without a suspension system, that feeling would be even more… well… jarring.

If your car is a magnet for curbs, potholes, and other road hazards, the odds that you may eventually need to repair your suspension are much higher. Pay close attention to how your car responds after hitting a speed bump. Does it bounce? A shaky steering wheel, uneven wear on your tires, bouncing after a speed bump, and leaking fluid could all be indicators of a suspension problem.

Each wheel of your car has shocks and struts that comprise the suspension system. To keep the car level and in good contact with the road, replacement should be done in pairs. So how much might the parts cost to repair or replace your suspension?

CarCare To Go Parts Manager Claire Treadway shares this insight:

“Usually each strut and spring assembly has a good range, about $200-$600 aftermarket depending on the car and options. Most dealerships and OEM distributors will charge each piece individually (the shock absorbers, the coil spring, and everything to replace them) and that will usually be about 600 for each side [of the vehicle.]”

What about costs specific to some of the most common makes in our area?

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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: 2928 Upton Street NW

“1915 Wardman extra wide townhouse with seven bedrooms, 2.5 baths on a gorgeous street in Forest Hills. Expansive open living room with fireplace. Formal dining room with imposing vintage chandelier and a wall of built-ins. Recently renovated kitchen with south facing window. Large family room addition opening to large deck with attractive seating overlooking beautiful landscaped garden. Powder room on main level. Master suite with custom tile fireplace. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout, many of them original, and plantation shutters. Lower level unit. Walk two blocks to Forest Hills metro, Giant and Rock Creek Park trails.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 4 BR/3 FB/2 HB semi-detached Federal-style home in Georgetown with 4k square feet spread across 3 levels and features a 1-car garage, fenced-in backyard, multiple fireplaces, and a full level for just the primary bedroom suite — all for $5.5M.
  • “This newly renovated turn-key rowhome boasts an ideal floor plan for both relaxation and entertainment. This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, a combination of hardwood floors, carpet and luxury vinyl planks, updated bathrooms, and much more.”
  • “This immaculate 2-unit [Petworth] building offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of luxury in one of the city’s most coveted neighborhoods. As you approach the building, you’ll immediately notice its striking modern architecture and sleek design. The building boasts a beautiful brick façade with large windows that flood the units with natural light.”
  • Your Foreclosure Property of the Week is a 3 BR/2.5 BA interior rowhome in Randle Heights/Henson Ridge being sold “strictly AS-IS.”

Many cleaning companies misclassify workers as contractors so they can get away with paying less than minimum wage. Misclassified workers also don’t qualify for programs like unemployment, disability, workers’ comp, and paid family and medical leave.

But that’s exactly why Well-Paid Maids classifies cleaners as W-2 employees — so they’re covered by these programs. Plus, all Well-Paid Maids employees are offered:

  • A $23/hour starting wage
  • Health, dental, vision and life insurance
  • 24 paid days off per year
  • And more.

Not only is this the right thing to do, it means Well-Paid Maids employs the happiest, hardest working folks in the biz.

Book your cleaning.


Caught up in the Barbie hype?

You’re not the only one — D.C. bars and restaurants are getting in on the hot pink wave ahead of the movie’s July 21 release.

Whether you’re looking for Barbie-themed cocktails or want to party like a Barbie girl, here are six places in D.C. where you can transport yourself to Barbieland (pink convertible not included).

  1. Cocktails at the Conrad DC
  2. Barbie Girl Burger at Ghostburger
  3. Barbiecore Drinks at Immigrant Food
  4. Luxe Barbie Experience at Top of the Gate
  5. Pretty in Pink Summer Bash at Cotton & Reed
  6. Barbie Dream Bar at McClellan’s Retreat

Adams Morgan celebrates its diverse culinary scene at “Adams Morgan Eats in the Streets” on Saturday, July 29 from 1-8 p.m.!

The outdoor event will take place during the launch of the 2023 Adams Morgan Pedestrian Zone between the 2400-2300 blocks of 18th Street NW. Eats in the Streets will showcase approximately 50 neighborhood restaurants and retailers in streatery spaces along the road closure. Attendees can sample cuisines from across the globe, purchase meals to go, enjoy free entertainment, and wander through an open street closed to vehicular traffic.

Participating restaurants will be offering dozens of all-day discounts, a “crowd favorite” menu item for $10 or less, and other fun surprises. Neighborhood retailers will also be onsite selling merchandise, giving out free samples, swag, and more.

Picnic tables will be available for attendees to eat at, enjoy live musical performances throughout the day, and gather with neighbors. Free fitness classes, face painting, a Foamboree for kids, balloon twisting, a chalk art muralist, and other fun activities will be available to event patrons. A DC Water misting station and water bottle refill station will be available for the public’s enjoyment and to cool down.

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It may be hot outside in the DMV right now, but the real estate market itself is ON FIRE! While inventory may still be down compared to previous years, there are more than 350 open houses in the District alone this weekend. Take a look at some of our suggested open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 1817 6th Street NW #1 — $879,000 — Shaw
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Ricardo Vasquez
    “Wonderful opportunity to own this beautiful home that comes with soaring 10ft ceilings, a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances (2021), granite countertop, recessed lighting, beautiful hardwood floors throughout, and over 1,241 sq. ft. of living space.”
  • 2912 26th Street NE — $1,795,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Reinaldo Catarino
    “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.”
  • 4711 Georgia Ave NW — $899,900 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Barri McClellan
    “Welcome to this beautiful townhome in the heart of Petworth conveniently located near the Metro and bus. With over 2,400 square feet of living space including 3 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, this home will be sure to impress. Original hardwood flooring on two levels including the original hardwood staircase is simply beautiful.”
  • 284 15th Street SE #401 — $440,000 — Hill East
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Brittney Winters
    “Welcome to your dream home in Capitol Hill, one of the most sought-after locations in the city! This stunning 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home boasts an open-concept layout with ample space for relaxation and entertainment. Grab your summer potted plants and take in the city skyline while enjoying the fresh air from the balcony.”
  • 361 N Street SW #361 — $715,000 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — John Edelmann
    $10k PRICE REDUCTION: “Come see this wonderful Mid-Century modern style townhome located in fashionable South West D.C. This beautiful home offers condominium living in a single family home environment. Located in the interior row of homes just off of N Street that opens onto the lovely Carrollsburg Park. This fine home features three floors of living space with foyer entrance on the main level through the private front patio.”
  • 956 Shepherd Street NW — $1,299,900 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “Along tree-lined Shepherd Street, where the Columbia Heights and Petworth neighborhoods meld into a residential retreat, 956 Shepherd St. NW positively pops in its elegant black-and-white styling. We have, however, kept the alley-adjacent wall of this end-unit row home au naturel to show off the masterful repointing in brick red and white mortar. Once inside, you’ll appreciate all the natural light afforded by that same wall’s numerous windows.”

Wear your most patriotic outfit pieces and enjoy BBQ, beer tastings, tailgating and more at the best celebration of the season!

Join DC Polo Society, DC Fray // District Fray and Congressional Polo Club for Red, White + Brews this Sunday, July 16 as part of our sun-soaked, Sunday polo series where tradition and modern fun collide.

Daycation to the countryside for polo, yard games, signature cocktails, food trucks and themed activities. Friends, families and (leashed) dogs are welcome.

Thank you to this year’s sponsors: MONKO, Ghostburger and Fresca Mixed.

Get Tickets today!


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: 2912 26th Street NE

“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. Additionally, this farmhouse features a substantial basement, complete with a wet bar perfect for hosting memorable gatherings and creating lasting memories or as an in-law-suite. A highlight of this comfortable home is the deck, surrounded by trees, providing a private and idyllic space to unwind at the same time you feel part of everything else this home has to offer. This one-of-a-kind property seamlessly merges the tranquility of the countryside with the conveniences of city living, offering a unique and inviting retreat for its fortunate occupants.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/6 FB/2 HB Forest Hills mid-century modern style home with 7,700+ total square foot spread across 4 levels and includes a 2-car garage, elevator, rooftop deck as well as 2 other decks including a covered patio — all for just shy of $6.7M.
  • This 1 BR/1.5 BA Chillum “spacious, move-in ready, 2-level condo, that perfectly blends updated finishes and comfort” boasts “an open-concept main level — perfect for entertaining.”
  • “Beautiful 3 bed 3 bath penthouse unit in the heart of Petworth neighborhood. Parking included! 9 foot ceilings with modern design. State-of-the-art high-efficiency Samsung appliances, Calacatta quartz countertops, LVP Flooring, Tankless water heater.”
  • Your REO-Bank/Owned Property of the Week is a 4 BR/3 BA detached Colonial in American University Park being sold AS-IS.

The living-wage cleaning company Well-Paid Maids is celebrating a milestone: Over 200 Google reviews! And it boasts an overall 4.9-star rating.

Even better: Well-Paid Maids pays its employees at least $23 an hour and offers benefits like insurance and PTO. 

Here’s what some recent reviewers had to say:

  • “Jolene S. did a fantastic job with a house that was quite honestly a mess. Incredibly happy with the cleaning we received from Well-Paid Maids.”
  • “Tati does a wonderful job taking care of my home when I can’t. She has great attention to detail, she’s thoughtful about my space and careful with my stuff. My cat even likes her, and he doesn’t like anyone but me. I can’t say enough good things about Tati!”
  • “We used Well-Paid Maids for the first time and were not disappointed! Nathanial was very kind, communicative and professional, and the whole process from start to finish was incredibly easy. I really appreciated knowing my business went to a business model that supports full employee benefits and a living wage.”

It’s a win-win when you support a company doing good and get a sparkling-clean home! Book your cleaning online.


The Beltway and surrounding routes hold hazards for the average commute, but in adverse weather, conditions can become challenging and even dangerous. Remember to turn off features like cruise control, slow down, and ensure your brakes are working properly.

As summer storms continue to roll in, ensure that your car is operating in peak condition before you get on the road. Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you drive safely in the rain or adverse weather conditions.

1. Check your tires: Tire maintenance is crucial for safe driving in any weather condition. Start by checking the tire tread depth. Tires with worn-out treads have reduced traction and can cause slippage on wet surfaces. You may need to replace tires with a tread depth of less than 4/32 inches, learn more. Additionally, ensure your tires are properly inflated as over or under-inflated tires may lead to decreased stability and increased stopping distance.

2. Inspect your windshield wipers: Worn-out or damaged windshield wipers can affect visibility during rain or snowfall. Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and replace them if necessary. Streaking, skipping, or squeaking noises indicate that your wipers might need replacement. Additionally, make sure your wipers are clearing the windshield effectively, as poor visibility can be extremely dangerous in adverse weather conditions. Wiper replacement can done at home, or be added to any of your services, but is also included in our customer-favorite “Signature Special.”

3. Check your headlights and taillights: Properly functioning headlights and taillights are essential for visibility in adverse weather conditions. Ensure that all your lights are working correctly and are clean, as dirt and grime can reduce their effectiveness. (Get a Deluxe Detail for $299 that includes exterior wash.) Consider replacing your headlights with brighter, more efficient bulbs to improve visibility. Moreover, make sure to use your headlights even during the day when visibility is reduced due to rain or fog.

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