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Make an Impact, Become a Tutor

By PoP Sponsor (a)

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted three school years for more than 50 million students across the country.

In D.C., PARCC scores, which measure the share of students who meet or exceed academic expectations, fell from 37% to 31% in English language arts, and from 31% to 19% in math.

Tutoring has been proven as one of the most effective ways to help students supplement math and literacy skills learned in the classroom. The need for tutors is massive this school year, with thousands of individuals needed.

CityTutor DC partners offer both virtual and in-person tutoring options, making tutoring a convenient and flexible way to make an impact. You will be paired with an elementary or middle school student and have the opportunity to form bonds that will keep you coming back every week.

By tutoring, you will bring back the human connection, attention, and support needed to help students accelerate academically and socially.

Tutoring is the perfect volunteer opportunity to apply your skills, connect directly with a D.C. student, and make a difference.

Sign up with CityTutor DC today!

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

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As we venture into the autumn season, the leaves aren’t the only thing falling, but so are a lot of home prices. It might not be the interest rates falling, but we’re seeing a lot of price reductions lately so now is your chance to find your new home! Check out our favorites below and to see the full Open House List, click here.

  • 2113 11th Street NW — $1,550,000 — Shaw/U Street
    Open Sun. 1:30-3:30 p.m. — Debi Fox
    $50k PRICE REDUCTION “Now’s the Time! A Perfect Blend of Classic & Contemporary! Stylish, 5 BR, 5 BA, Row House in the sought after neighborhood of Shaw in the U Street Corridor, with approximately 2800 sq. ft. of living space. Well maintained by the original owners, looks LIKE NEW! Owners residence is on the top 2 levels with a rental unit on the first floor level. So many upgrades! FEATURES INCLUDE: High Ceilings, Open floor plan, flooded with natural light, Skylights, Walnut wood floors throughout, plus energy efficient recessed lighting with Lutron dimmer switches, updated gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, island w/seating, and open to an additional living space with gas fireplace, which leads to a huge deck to enjoy outdoor dining and entertaining, 2 secured parking spaces with automatic sensored lighting and a first floor rental unit. The 2 levels in the owners unit include the living/dining kitchen/and sitting area on the 2nd floor and the 3 BR’s are on the top floor. The expansive primary suite includes a spacious sitting area and recently renovated en suite Spa Like Bath, with custom cabinetry designed by architect Julie Clayton, Double shower and pebble flooring, New Bosch Washer/Dryer. The Rental unit includes, 2BR,1.1/5 BA with patio space, washer/dryer, and is a great source of income. The front of the house features a private manicured, gated courtyard with Antique Lamp and sitting area. This home has it all and is so inviting, spacious and comfortable, every attention is made to all the details.”
  • 507 14th Street SE — $839,000 — Hill East
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — John Coleman
    $26k PRICE REDUCTION “This stunning end-unit rowhouse features countless classic Hill details (like the stained-glass entryway transom), tons of bookshelves for avid readers and a backyard that feels like a private oasis. The home’s wide footprint provides ample living space (and two large bedrooms).”
  • 3411 Holmead Place NW — $1,100,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “You’ll love this stunning Columbia Heights townhouse located in one of the most convenient spots in the neighborhood. This 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath house is a 5 minute walk to the CH metro, Giant supermarket, Le Caprice French Bakery, Thip Khao, many more restaurants, services and shops. The property has been completely renovated and features, on the main level, a large, eat-in kitchen with high-end cabinets and appliances, soaring ceilings, a massive dining room, warm hardwood floors, ample living space, and a half-bath.”
  • 1015 Quincy Street NE  — $499,000 — CUA/Brookland
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Lorielle Akintunde
    “Hidden Gem in Brookland! 2 bedroom/2.5 bathroom condo townhome in Quincy Court. This recently renovated open floorplan has new carpet throughout, new wood flooring, fresh paint, renovated bathrooms and an updated kitchen. Natural light is abundant throughout.”
  • 2500 Q Street NW #543 — $320,000 — Georgetown
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Kerry Murphy
    “A perfect combination of location and unheard value are found in this sun-filled residence in the Gateway Georgetown Condominium, a coveted Best Address building! Upon entering unit 543, large windows flood the home with natural light, highlighting the gleaming oak parquet floors.”
  • 2401 Rand Place NE — $655,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Mandy & Tim Hursen Jr.
    $45k PRICE REDUCTION “Amazing opportunity! 3 level brick Cape Cod style home on a corner lot.Features 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath on the main level as well as an eat in kitchen and formal dining room.”
  • 1454 Belmont Street NW #12 — $995,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. — Kassie Payne
    $20k PRICE REDUCTION “THE VIEW WILL INSPIRE YOU LIKE A TRUE WASHINGTONIAN in this spacious 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom modern urban style loft! This truly amazing space features soaring 24ft. ceilings and sleek modern aesthetics, fixtures, and appliances, complete with an upper loft bedroom and a main level bedroom/den, both with their own full bathrooms, a main level hallway powder room, amazing floor to ceiling windows with automatic remote controlled window shades, and a balcony with some of the best monumental views of downtown D.C., with a total of 1,300 sq. ft. of living space!”

Get Smart With City Chic: How Interest Rates Impact Buying a Home

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Get Smart With City Chic is a bi-weekly column giving you the real talk rundown on what’s happening with the D.C. real estate market. Sponsored and written by Lindsay Dreyer, the broker/owner of City Chic Real Estate.

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ve probably seen the news that interest rates have gone up significantly since the spring. But what does that mean for buyers in today’s market? It’s hard to separate fact from fiction when it comes to buying a home, and in particular, getting a mortgage. So, what role do interest rates play when it comes to your purchasing power?

Simple answer: interest rates directly correlate to your monthly mortgage payment, so when interest rates rise, so does the monthly payment for your home loan.

How are interest rates determined?

Contrary to popular belief, the Federal Reserve does not directly determine mortgage interest rates. Mortgage lenders base interest rates on the current market, plus a markup that represents the lender’s profit. This is why you’ll see rate fluctuations even though the Federal Reserve hasn’t made any rate changes.

Do all mortgage lenders charge the same rate?

No! Each lender charges different fees and interest rates, which is why we encourage all our clients to speak to 2-3 different lenders.

Should you buy now or wait for rates to go down?

I wish I had a crystal ball so I could tell you what’s going to happen with home prices and interest rates! We are exiting a period of time where we had historically low interest rates. My guess: we probably won’t ever see interest rates in the 2’s again. However, if you want to buy a home, can afford your mortgage at current interest rates, and have a long term game plan, I don’t think there’s a reason to wait. If rates go down, you can always refinance.

It’s not all bad news

We had record-breaking demand for homes the past few years, and it was tough out there for buyers. We’re seeing things start to ease, and a reprieve from insane bidding wars is a welcome change! That isn’t to say bidding wars are gone completely, but it’s definitely feeling less frenzied.

The Bottom Line 

No one can time the market perfectly, not even real estate agents. If you’re ready to become a homeowner, now is as good a time as any to take the plunge. Especially if you’re in a stable spot. Don’t let the news about rising rates scare you away!

City Chic Real Estate is a woman owned, independent real estate company, specializing in helping first time buyers and sellers in the DMV. Book a no pressure, intro call with our team at citychicre.com/popville.

Longtime DC Roofing Company Offering Free Estimates, Discounted Repairs

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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Just in time for winter weather, William Mackay Roofing comes through with free estimates and reduced repair fees for PoPville readers.

Don’t look now, but winter’s harsh weather is coming our way. William Mackay Roofing reminds us that now is the time to inspect and repair your home’s roof instead of waiting until it’s too late.

And for a limited time, William Mackay Roofing, a multi-generational family owned and operated business, is offering free roof inspections and discounted repair packages to PoPville readers!

“All estimates are completely free,” owner William Mackay emphasizes. “We understand that our D.C. clients are busy so we provide a number of convenient and efficient options that accommodate our customers’ busy schedules.”

The company has been serving Washingtonians for decades and knows that just about each house in the region has a roof with its own distinctive characteristics. William Mackay Roofing is familiar with the construction methods, architectural styles, and building materials that our region’s roofs call for. A representative will explain the details of what’s needed and will develop a budget that works for all concerned.

Mackay reminds readers that the company is fully licensed and insured and is experienced in commercial as well as residential roofing replacements and repairs. The company also installs gutters and is available for larger projects as a general construction contractor. (See their services.)

“Our customer rating is 100 percent,” Mackay says. “We are AAA rated with the Better Business Bureau and we are the recipient of multiple awards through HomeAdvisor and Angie’s List.” (See the Thumbtack and Yelp reviews.)

Visit the website, send an email ([email protected]), or give William Mackay a call at 202-706-3778.

Real Estate Fresh Finds: October 12

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: 2717 13th Street NW #A

“Need more space? This 3 BR/2 BA condo is larger than some houses on the same street! With over 2300 SQFT, this unit has high ceilings, tons of natural light, and quality upgrades throughout. An ornate tiled entryway foyer leads you to the living room with a bay of windows, the ideal setting for entertaining or quietly reading a book in the warmth of a wood-burning fireplace. The dining area leads to the chef’s kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a center island, granite counters and white shaker cabinetry. Also on the main level is a massive primary bedroom, a wall of closets, and a walk out to a back deck and large private patio. The seller enjoyed grilling and entertaining in this unique backyard space. Perfect for BBQs, firepit nights, and for letting your pets run around in the fully-fenced in yard space! The fully-finished lower-level living room has an exposed brick wall and comes with the convenience of a kitchenette. Included are two additional bedrooms, one full bath, stacked washer and dryer, plenty of storage, a front entryway and walk-out to the rear patio. The owner rented this lower level out — greatly reducing her monthly payment! You can do the same or use this space as an extra entertainment room, work from home space, in-law suite, etc. Everything you need is easily accessible with loads of grocery, retail, restaurant and fitness options.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 2 BR/3 BA “double-unit penthouse residence spanning 3,350 square feet” at Watergate South and features multiple fireplaces, high-end appliances, spa bathroom, marble flooring, 2 parking spaces as well as 2 rooftop decks — all for just under $2.8M.
  • “The [2 BR/1 BA] Trinidad condo will make you the envy of all your friends with its open concept design, custom paint, high ceilings, recessed lighting, surround sound speakers, in-wall cable management, and gleaming hardwood floors. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light to fill every room, creating a bright and airy feeling in this home.”
  • “This 4 BR/3.5 BA [Petworth] home has undergone a full gut renovation and has been meticulously recrafted by a large, well-established local developer… no stone, nail or board left untouched. The first floor of this home features an open floor plan, with wood floors, and ample dining and entertaining space.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is “an unbelievable opportunity” at “The Lofts of Columbia Heights. Part of D.C.’s “Affordable Dwelling Unit” Program, this three-bedroom, two bath 1,318 square foot home is listed for only $299,900 — a true bargain for the neighborhood.”

Get to Know Tati, A Professional Cleaner at Well-Paid Maids

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Tati became a cleaner at Well-Paid Maids in December 2021. As she approaches her one-year anniversary with the only living-wage cleaning company in D.C., we wanted to get to know her a little better!

Question: What made you most excited about joining the Well-Paid Maids team?

Answer: I was excited about joining the team because they actually care about their employees. They offer a living wage and have great benefits that help me support my wife and my 2-year-old daughter.

Q: What is your favorite benefit? How has it helped you?

A: My favorite benefit is that Well-Paid Maids pays for most of my health insurance. It was always a big issue to afford it with my former jobs. I had to pay about $200 a month for it. The job didn’t pay well, and my paychecks weren’t high enough to pay my bills, so I had to cancel the insurance. The cheapest option was through the state, but it was still $170 and not worth having.

Q: In what other ways is Well-Paid Maids different from your previous work experiences?

A: Well-Paid Maids doesn’t put me down for having to call out of work due to emergencies. For example, last winter during the small snowstorm, I was having car trouble. I called my manager, and she said not to worry about going to work since the roads were dangerous anyway. 

The next day, I had to take my car into the shop and had to miss work again. Thankfully, it was a minor issue, but my manager understood that emergencies happen and didn’t give me a hard time.

Q: What’s your favorite part of the job?

A: My favorite part is that I am able to work without being micromanaged. My managers give me the freedom to work how I feel is best for each situation.

Q: How would you describe your experience with Well-Paid Maids in one sentence?

A: Working at Well-Paid Maids has been a blessing to me because I have never had a job where I felt respected and appreciated for the hard work I put in.

Thank you for letting us get to know you, Tati!

If you want to book a cleaning with Tati or any of our other cleaners, find our availability online.

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Hurricane Ian has passed and there’s now nothing but clear skies and sun on the 5-day forecast leading into next week making this the perfect weekend to get out and view one of the 370+ open houses scheduled across the District. Take a look at some of our favorites below and to see the full Open House List, click here.

  • 2501 M Street NW #509 — $875,000 — West End
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Gene Sung
    “This beautiful 1 bed plus den, 2 bathroom condo with parking sits in the heart of West End, close to the city’s best dining, entertainment, shopping, and parks. The open floor plan unit features sleek and modern finishes with wide-plank white oak hardwoods, floor-to-ceiling windows, custom cabinetry, Bosch appliances and quartz countertops. Custom closets throughout the unit provide well organized storage space. The owner’s suite has room for a king bed and features 2 large closets, an ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower, and a private outdoor balcony. The large den can fill many needs, such as a home office, guest room, or media room. The guest bathroom has a nice soaking tub and a closet with the stacked washer/dryer. The building features include secure garage parking, a 24-hour concierge, an on-site building manager, well-appointed club rooms, an exceptional fitness center with yoga studio and large rooftop terraces with panoramic city views. The condo fee is $759.94 per month and the parking fee is $250.00 per month.”
  • 1210 Perry Street NE #T3 — $459,900 — Brookland
    Open Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Trever Bellew
    “This sunlit 2-bedroom corner unit is updated throughout and ready to be called home! Featuring two sizable bedrooms and a den with custom built-ins and textured wallpaper that is just perfect for those work from home days.”
  • 430 Oneida Place NW — $899,900 — Brightwood
    Open Sun. 3-5 p.m. — Molly Branson
    “Fully-renovated, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with stunning finishes and design in sought after Brightwood/Manor Park. Open concept living with an abundance of space and light, adorned with solid white oak floors throughout the main and upper levels. High ceilings with recessed lighting embrace the spacious living room and dining room graced with the warmth of a wood burning fireplace.”
  • 1005 I Street SE — $929,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Mark Bertini
    “You won’t want to miss this Charming Home steps from Barracks Row and so close to Capitol Hill and the new Navy Yard Waterfront . With two large bedrooms along with great closets and a newly renovated full bath upstairs along with a flex room downstairs that can serve as an office or a guest room.”
  • 1300 N Street NW #206 — $649,000 — Logan Circle
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — John Coleman
    “Step into this turnkey designer’s dream of a condo and prepare to fall in love. This two-bedroom (one-bedroom plus den) corner unit is located in the heart of Logan Circle and boasts a unique and efficient floor plan, promising the best use of the 1,020 sq. ft. of living space.”
  • 718 13th Street NE — $899,900 — H Street Corridor
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “New Price!! Head-turning facade greets you in this awesome house just off H Street. With four full finished levels, this townhouse offers plenty of space to spread out.”
  • 507 14th Street SE — $865,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Jason Martin
    “This stunning end-unit rowhouse features countless classic Hill details (like the stained-glass entryway transom), tons of bookshelves for avid readers and a backyard that feels like a private oasis. The home’s wide footprint provides ample living space (and two large bedrooms).”

Green House Designs Launches New Color Consultation Service

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Do you want to create a cozy living room? Are you dreaming of a peaceful and romantic bedroom? Need an office that will be the envy of your video calls?

Well-curated paint and wallpaper selections can transform the look and feel of your home, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Green House Designs now offers Color Consultations to help find the perfect solution for your individual style and space.

Founded in 2019, we are a local (woman and queer owned) design firm that has helped clients in D.C., Maryland and Virginia with full-scale kitchen and bathroom remodels, as well as unique interior design projects. Our new Color Consultation service makes that “final detail” of paint selection an easy, affordable, and enjoyable process.

Whether you choose to meet with us remotely or in-person, you’ll be working one-on-one with a member of our local team of designers. They’ll ask questions, get to know your goals for the space, and hone in on the perfect colors for your personal style. You’ll come away with swatches of your chosen colors and all the information you need to confidently walk into the paint store or hire professional painters.

We created this service based on feedback from clients who felt lost when going with national online-only color services. They felt like the process was rushed, and they were offered generic colors that didn’t work in their spaces or take their style into consideration. They wanted to work with a real creative who thoughtfully considers details like home layout, light levels, and coordination with furniture and artwork. Our design team is made up of professional artists who have decades of experience transforming spaces through paint and texture.

We believe that everyone deserves spaces that make them feel great. Green House Designs can help make that a reality for you with transparent pricing, clear communication, and some fun along the way.

Check out our enthusiastic reviews here and visit us today to get started! Follow @green_house_designs on Instagram!

Real Estate Fresh Finds: October 5

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: 1004 Sigsbee Place NE

“Welcome to 1004 Sigsbee, a classic Colonial tucked away on a quiet one-way block in beautiful Brookland. This rare double-lot property boasts endless possibilities. In addition to the home itself, the sale includes the large adjacent lot, which could provide other opportunities. While it currently provides a massive and lush yard, it also offers potential opportunities for a separate structure, home addition, pool, or just an amazing gift to your four-legged friend who will have space to run to their heart’s content. The house, however, is the heart and true centerpiece of the sale. This standalone three-bedroom and two-bath home has an efficient layout with abundant light and natural flow. From the moment you walk in the door, you’re immediately entrenched in classic details including refinished hardwood floors, a wood-burning fireplace, and an elegant staircase with its original banister. The kitchen features butcher block countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a beautiful subway tile backsplash. Upstairs, there are three good-sized rooms and a stunningly renovated bathroom with a dual vanity and glass shower enclosure. The basement is the perfect flex space. Whether you need it for another entertaining area, sleeping area, home gym, or office, the space has high ceilings, a rear egress, a full bath, and a separate utility room with plenty of storage. Additional storage and a workbench can be found in the outdoor shed. This home features off-street parking, but there’s always more room for friends to park on the street. Need to venture out to the rest of D.C.? It’s about a ten-minute walk to the Brookland metro station and steps from a number of crosstown buses. Note: Historical and property data in this listing reflect only one of the two lots, 3889 0037. Current owners acquired the adjacent lot (3889 0038), nearly doubling the size of the combined property, and are selling them together.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a massive 7 BR/7 FB/3 HB Victorian in Logan Circle with 6,500+ square feet spread across 6 levels and features an elevator, Tesla charging station, smart home technology, chef’s kitchen, sunroom, dual primary suites and a 1,100 sq. ft. roof deck with an outdoor kitchen, hot tub and breathtaking monument views of the District — all for just under $5M.
  • “This gorgeous 1909 [Petworth] row house” with 3 BR/2 BA has been gorgeously renovated and boasts a “separate dining and living rooms, inviting front porch, and finished basement” as well as “ample outdoor space, with a lovely front garden and rear patio.”
  • “This [3 BR/2 FB/2 HB] all-brick Colonial sitting atop a hill on one the the city’s quietest blocks preserves the original charm and character from the 1940’s that is ready for your personal touch” in “the sought-after Shepherd Park neighborhood.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a renovated 2 BR/2 BA condo at the Watergate boasting an open layout, abundant storage, large windows, and a private balcony.
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