I was going to write an article about CarCare To Go, a new local car repair service bringing trust, transparency and convenience to an industry not always known for these traits.

Among other things, they provide free valet pick-up and return from home, 12-month/12k mile warranty on all work, and $20.22 oil changes for new clients. But then I realized that much better than me writing would be to hear a review recently posted on Google by a fellow reader.

I saw an ad for these guys on PoPville and thought I’d give them a go because I needed a new battery. The morning of my appointment I got a text saying “Hey we can pick your car up early if you are ok with that”. Not something you usually hear — so big bonus points immediately! Then about an hour or so later I got a call saying that I needed more work done than just my battery needing to be replaced. Naturally I thought of course I do… however, what followed was super pleasant. It was a full walkthrough with videos and the mechanic showing me what was wrong and exactly where it was. Although, I decided not to have the work done (because the car isn’t worth the amount it would have cost to fix all of the problems) I gave Roxy (who I can’t speak highly enough of) a call back and let her know and she simply said “ok” and she understood my reasoning instead of trying to pressure me into it anyways. This service was incredible and I know it is a bit pricey, but for the convenience and customer service/experience it is worth every bit! I will absolutely use them again in the future and continue to rave about my experience with anyone who asks! — Shannon R.

You can see many more 5-star reviews on their site. Of course, CarCare To Go does much more than oil changes. They are a full-service shop that does everything from brake pad replacements to the most complicated engine replacements.

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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: 104 13th Street NE

“The quintessential Capitol Hill charmer you’ve been waiting for! This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath row home is adorned by intricate early 20th century detailing in both the exterior architecture and throughout the interior design, invoking a rich sense of history and beauty. After admiring the crisp, newly painted front exterior, step inside and follow the gorgeous original hardwood flooring through the main living and dining spaces to a newly renovated eat-in kitchen with tasteful and clever design. The kitchen boasts a viking gas range with an integrated/vented hood, stainless steel appliances, stone countertops and ample shelving and storage space. Travel upstairs and the warm hardwood follows you into an expansive master bedroom and two full-size guest bedrooms. Having two full bathrooms on the upper floor and a half bath on the main level will make life convenient for you and future guests. The ensuite master bathroom is currently undergoing a complete renovation and is expected to be completed by mid May! The fully finished basement offers versatility with storage/living space and an extra bedroom or den. Enjoy the central A/C and forced-air heating indoors or enjoy some fresh air on the lovely, relaxing back deck and patio with basement and alley access points. This exceptionally charming home is steps from Lincoln Park, Eastern Market and all the best of life on Capitol Hill without needing to step foot inside a car. Truly an opportunity not to be missed!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/6.5 BA traditional stone style home, built in 2001, with 10k+ total square feet of luxury living across 3 levels and features a .34-acre lot, grand staircase, 2 fireplaces, and a “sprawling lower level of the residence” with a large recreation room, dry bar, and beverage refrigerator, an office with private entry, a gym, game room, and ample storage space as well as a 1 BR staff suite — all for $7.75M.
  • “STUNNING 2 Bed with separate study/3 Bath light filled, southeast corner apartment with balcony in PET FRIENDLY building” has a “clear high end, recent renovation with every detail thoughtfully updated.”
  • Gorgeously renovated Petworth “3 BR, 3 FB penthouse 2-level condo with assigned parking and private 40 ft long roof deck with amazing views!”
  • Your Auction/Bankruptcy Property of the Week is a renovated 2 BR/2.5 BA 2-level unit in NoMa that comes with parking and offers due May 6th.

Springtime in Washington (Photo via Lorie Shaull/flickr)

Spring officially sprung over a month ago (that’s at least according to the calendar — not the erratic weather trends), but you’ve still got plenty of time to give your home a nice, deep spring clean.

There’s no need to waste a weekend of perfect temps to scrub your shower grout with a toothbrush or wipe down the baseboards, though.

Let Well-Paid Maids help.

Well-Paid Maids isn’t your average cleaning service. For one, it’s the only living-wage cleaning company in the DMV area. That means it pays employees — not contractors — a fair, living wage of at least $20 an hour.

It also provides employees benefits. This includes health, dental and vision insurance; 22 paid days off per year; employer-paid commuting and more.

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Don’t miss the chance to explore the landmark exhibition Afro-Atlantic Histories this week!

John Wilmerding Symposium on American Art
April 26-28

What do a MacArthur Genius Fellow, an Emmy nominee, and other leading artistic minds have to say about the exhibition? Register here to find out.

Afro-Atlantic Histories Festival
Saturday, April 30, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

You’re invited to a FREE, daylong festival celebrating the arts and cultures of the African Diaspora.

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It’s a busy weekend with 360+ open houses scheduled across the District while we enjoy some true spring weather. While you won’t need an umbrella this time around, you may want to bring some sunscreen if you plan on being out and about, perhaps having a D.C. brunch followed by some house hunting. Check out some open houses below and to see the full Open House List,  click here.

  • 5208 Bass Place SE — $639,900 — Marshall Heights
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Denise Greene
    “Welcome home to this historic and magnificently restored modern, cottage-style home in the heart of Marshall Heights where First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt first visited in 1934. This true turnkey gem awaits your dwelling! 5208 Bass Place SE features an expansive open floor plan with recess lighting, hardwood floors and 9-10 ft ceilings throughout the home, gourmet kitchen with 42″ custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. The main dwelling features a combined living and dining area with tons of natural light, a custom geometric accent wall, and separate laundry room. The primary bedroom features 10+ foot ceiling, skylight, ceiling fan, recess lighting, custom built closets and primary bathroom en suite. The second and third bedrooms are spacious with ample closet space. The bedrooms are perfect for either guest accommodations, an office or recreational/fitness room. The exterior features of the home include brand new roof with architectural shingles, new vinyl siding, new windows, new HVAC, new tankless water heater, all new electrical and plumbing, all new drywall, professional landscaping including new sod, shrubs, patio installation and pavers. Enjoy everything Marshall Heights has to offer in this fabulous renovation. Close proximity to Marvin Gaye Park, East Capitol Street Corridor, KIPP DC Benning Campus, Capitol Hill, Navy Yard, grocery, and major commuter route. Less than 1 mile to Benning Road and Capitol Heights Metro Stations.”
  • 3020 Tilden Street NW #102 — $600,000 — North Cleveland Park
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Joe Himali
    “Unit #102 at 3020 Tilden Street, NW combines the best of city living with the serenity of sylvan views — this tranquil home, facing away from the street and nestled in the garden sanctuary of Tilden Gardens, is flooded in warm natural sunlight and provides both grand and airy living areas and quiet and private sleeping quarters.”
  • 49 Danbury Street SW — $400,000 — Bellevue
    Open Sun. 2-4 p.m. — Arynne Crane
    “This inviting [2 BR/2.5 BA] townhome is the ideal place to call home” with a “spacious living area [that] will make you the envy of all your friends; with its open concept design, high ceilings, crown molding, freshly painted walls and hardwood floors.”
  • 1419 R Street NW #43 — $724,900 — Logan Circle
    Open Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Gene Sung
    “This unit tier is one of the most coveted in the building, having the largest layout, southern and western exposures, and views of the courtyard. Two decorative fireplaces bring character and charm to the separate living and dining rooms and the kitchen features granite countertops, maple cabinets and a vintage Chambers range. Immersed in natural sunlight, the flow is perfect for entertaining and everyday living.”
  • 800 Burns Street SE — $499,000 — Fort Dupont Park
    Open Sun. 1-3:30 p.m. — Bill Jackson
    “Totally renovated in 2015 this meticulously maintained home is move in ready for its new owner! Home sits on a large corner lot with two fenced in patios and a brick bbq pit perfect for entertaining two car off street rear parking pad.”

1000 South Capitol reimagines the new gold standard for luxury living.

From grand amenities to catered concierge services curated to enriching each resident’s living experience through convenience and custom-designed events, the newest luxury rental building by Lerner is quickly gaining excitement in Washington, D.C. Situated next to Nationals Park, the neighborhood isn’t the only amenity that is impressing the community.

Premium amenities and services, such as a podcast studio, Mantracore® Fitness Studio, rooftop infinity edge swimming pool, 24/7 concierge and a luxe library, and wine bar are among the many community attractions.

A guaranteed conversation starter — and one of few available in D.C. — the podcast studio allows the community to extend hosting beyond its residences. Primed for audio recording and video conferencing, invites can be extended to your favorite podcasters as guest speakers, with the opportunity to mingle with residents in the amenity’s guest lounge.

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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: 4019 5th Street NW

“Perfectly nestled in the heart of Petworth, mere blocks from all the action, 4019 5th Street, NW is an airy and elegant 2,179 square foot porch-front federal rowhome. With three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and an open and bright layout that has been fully renovated for ideal city living. The charming porch is the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee while overlooking the lovely front yard. Entering the home, a spacious and open living space is highlighted by thoughtful details like crown molding and recessed lighting. The western light warms the home with evening light showcasing the gleaming hardwood floors found throughout. The open living and dining area flows into the kitchen providing an ideal flow for entertaining. The sunny cook’s kitchen features a full suite of stainless-steel appliances, tall, white shaker-style cabinetry and granite countertops. The peninsula is perfect for informal dining, buffet style meals or extra counterspace to prep all your gourmet meals. The kitchen has access to the rear deck and fully fenced yard to enjoy the outdoors. The yard is an urban oasis, offering a retreat that’s ideal for entertainment or quiet relaxation. Behind the fence are two off-street parking spaces. Upstairs, there are three spacious bedrooms. The front primary bedroom feels airy and grand and features vaulted ceilings with dormer windows that flood the room with natural light. An en-suite bathroom offers a double vanity and ceramic tiled shower with bench. The second and third bedrooms are located at the rear of the home overlooking the yard. There is a hallway bathroom, across from the washer and dryer, which are conveniently located on the second floor. The fully finished lower level rounds out this fabulous home. Featuring a large family room and full bathroom, this space can be used for many purposes. There is also a door to access the rear yard from this level.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a BRAND NEW 6 BR/7.5 BA Spring Valley SMART Colonial built-in 2022 with 7,300+ square feet of luxury living across 4 levels and features 3 fireplaces, formal dining room, a gourmet kitchen, steam room, and yoga room, as well as a multitude of smart tech including an elevator, wifi extenders, smart switches & plugs, USB chargers, Alexa, surround sound, espresso maker and even smart shower system — all for $5.6M.
  • Well-maintained [4 BR/2.5 BA] home on a charming block in Takoma. This beautiful single-family property gets plenty of natural light, has a spacious backyard to enjoy with off-street parking, and is near the downtown Takoma Park Farmer’s Market.”
  • “Perfectly located between Brentwood and Bloomingdale, this 3 BR/3 BA Eckington Park condo puts you in the middle of a neighborhood that’s going places. With the Metro barely a half-mile from home, you’ll be going places, too! Or maybe travel in place with the neighborhood’s new arts and events destination, Metrobar, itself just a small part of the sweeping evolution planned on the site of the Rhode Island Center.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a Capitol Hill studio condo in a converted Victorian that comes with its own Murphy bed.

Jolene Smith, a native Washingtonian, joined Well-Paid Maids as a cleaner in January.

When asked how it’s going so far, she rattled off reasons it’s better than her previous jobs:

  • Her hours are consistently 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. She’s never worked past 6 p.m. or weekends.
  • The pay is good — it starts at $20 an hour.
  • The benefits are solid. There’s health, vision, dental and life insurance. But Jolene especially appreciates the 100% employer-paid commuting costs. That includes mileage and gas as well as a company credit card for parking garages.
  • She also gets 22 paid days off per year. She went to California for her birthday this year and is headed to the Dominican Republic for her destination wedding in June!
  • Her managers are supportive, communicative and don’t micromanage — a huge perk!

Plus, Jolene says all her clients have been great, showering her with compliments. She even has a few regulars she cleans for once a month.

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Welcome to Coffee with Coleman! I’m John Coleman, and in this feature, I’ll cover real estate topics in fun and easy-to-digest video breakdowns. If there’s a topic you are interested in hearing more about, feel free to comment on the video and/or reach out to me directly.

In this video we break down the typical closing costs you see when purchasing a home in D.C. and some tips to save money along the way.

Most Thursdays I host a livestream at 6 p.m. to cover a lot of the nuts and bolts of the home-buying process. Sign up here to learn more: www.learntobuydc.com


The Real Estate Market is HOT and it’s time for you to get educated!

Please join our First Time Home Buyer Workshop this Saturday, April 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Be apart of the generation that’s building equity and wealth through homeownership.

Learn mortgage loan options with local lender Alex Jaffe. ⁠Also, receive the best strategies for making winning offers from our GreenLine Real Estate agents Jeremiah Olugbuyi and Regina Gloster.

Our workshops are virtual and free of charge. No obligation to buy… only to learn. A Zoom link will be provided to those who register.

Sign up today at: GreenLineRE.com/homebuyerworkshop.

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