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: 532 Somerset Place NW

532 Somerset Place NW

“This delightful semi-detached row-house in sought after Brightwood/Manor Park beckons visitors to come enjoy a drink and conversation on the welcoming front porch. The living room can equally provide a gracious entertaining space or a peaceful retreat from the world. The large dining room is perfect for cozy dinner parties. Beyond the dining room is a spacious, renovated kitchen with custom shaker cabinetry and built-ins, quartz countertops, exquisite backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gas range, and beautiful pendant light fixtures. Upstairs, the owner’s bedroom boasts a large closet. There are two additional bedrooms and an updated ceramic tile bathroom. The lower level has a recreation room with a full bathroom, office area, and laundry and storage room. And, of course, the house features the ideal combination of central air-conditioning and radiator heat along with hardwood floors on the main level. The back deck is a private oasis.This location is second to none! Easily walk to the Takoma Recreation Center featuring indoor pool, tennis courts, baseball field, playground, and picnic area. Minutes to the Takoma Metro Station on the Red Line, groceries, shops, restaurants, The Parks at Walter Reed, and downtown Takoma Park. Everything you need is just a quick walk away!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a four bedroom, four full bathroom and two half-bathroom Georgetown townhouse with 3,100 sq. ft. across four levels. Originally built in 1948 and reimagined by Christian Zapatka, it features a curvilinear staircase, elevator, and finishes inspired by classic Mayfair and Upper East Side design. Highlights include a chef’s kitchen with Thermador appliances, a drawing room with 10-foot ceilings, vintage windows, and a balcony overlooking the garden. Additional perks include a library/guest suite, wine storage, and a detached garage with EV charging — all for $4.6M
  • “A home that sparks joy! This eclectic, beautifully designed, completely renovated 3 BR/2 BA brick row home is stunning from every angle! The open floor plan is bright and airy with light hickory wood floors and a vibrant, top-of-the-line chefs kitchen”
  • “Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury at 4301 Kansas Ave NW. This exquisite Victorian, built in 1907 on a remarkable corner lot, boasts nearly 5,000 sq. ft. of beautifully appointed living space in the heart of Petworth.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 3 BR/1.5 BA “classic Rowhome that offers a fantastic opportunity to create your dream space with some updating and personal touches.”

Looking for the perfect home this Thanksgiving weekend? While most are busy with Black Friday deals and holiday leftovers, savvy homebuyers know this is a golden opportunity to shop for something even more meaningful — real estate. Though Thanksgiving weekend often has fewer open houses than usual, it’s a prime time to preview properties, especially if you have family in town for a second (or third) opinion. Don’t miss out — our top open house picks for the weekend might lead you to your dream home! To see the full DC Open House List, click here.

1208 V Street NW
  • 1208 V Street NW — $1,599,900 — U Street
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Christine Nieva
    “Exquisite fully move-in ready home in the heart of U St Corridor! This impeccable 4 bedrooms, 3.5 total baths, 1-car front entry garage, 1 private parking driveway space, with a large total square footage at 3024 square feet, with a dedicated separately metered apartment with a full kitchen and bath, is a MUST visit!”
  • 1202 34th SE — $950,000 — Hillcrest
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Brian Thomas
    This 5 BR/4.5 BA haven is “nestled in the highly sought after area of HillCrest. Be prepared to be captivated by the timeless charm and impeccable craftsmanship showcased throughout this remarkable residence spanning nearly 3200sf of living space. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light and a well-designed floor plan seamlessly combining opulence and comfort, while incorporating modern amenities for a truly elevated living experience. Indulge in the open concept living area, where a cozy fireplace beckons you to unwind and create cherished memories with loved ones.”
  • 824 18th Street NE #6 — $258,000 — Langston
    Open Sat. & Sun 2-4 p.m. — Dave Park
    “Welcome to 824 18th, where luxury living is redefined with newly upgraded lobbies and enticing pricing! Situated just minutes from the vibrant H-street Corridor, our exceptional luxury condo building promises an elevated lifestyle experience. Each residence at EIGHT24 is a testament to impeccable style, boasting spacious layouts and luxurious amenities crafted to enhance your day-to-day living.”
  • 1117 10th Street NW #906 — $494,900 — Mount Vernon Square
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Weadom A. Weadom
    “New improved price! Motivated seller! NEW flooring throughout! Entire unit NEWLY PAINTED! Spacious 818 sq. ft. one-bedroom, GARAGE PARKING SPACE with LARGE kitchen peninsula (fit up to 5 bar stools) in the heart of D.C.’s Mount Vernon Triangle!.”
  • 5403 5th Street NW #1 — $749,999 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Nicola Taylor
    “Approved CofO! Experience ultimate luxury living at the brand-new 5403 Fifth Street Condominiums, Terrace Level. This exquisite residence offers a harmonious blend of modern design and comfortable living in the sought-after Petworth neighborhood. Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed baths, this terrace-level unit is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality.”

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: 2108 4th Street NE #A

2108 4th Street NE #A

“Experience Eckington pricing with the convenience of Bloomingdale and NoMa! This beautifully renovated, contemporary bi-level condo in the heart of Eckington offers the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility. The open-concept main floor features spacious living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining, along with a generously sized bedroom and full bath. The gourmet kitchen showcases quartz countertops, a large center island with breakfast bar seating, and high-end stainless steel appliances, while the private outdoor space is perfect for barbecues and gatherings. On the lower level, you’ll find three well-appointed bedrooms, including a primary suite with a spa-like en-suite bathroom featuring an oversized waterfall shower. Additional features include secure off-street parking with a commercial-grade roll-top garage door.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 4 BR/4.2 BA Georgetown colonial revival townhome with 3,100 sq. ft across 4 levels and features a guest suite/library, chef’s kitchen, garden pavilion, wine cellar, fireplace, spiraling staircase, and history — all for $4.59M.
  • “This eclectic, beautifully designed, completely renovated 3 BR/2 BA brick row home is stunning from every angle! The exquisite, moody blue exterior makes a lasting impression on sight!”
  • “This exquisite Victorian, built in 1907 on a remarkable corner lot, boasts nearly 5,000 sq. ft. of beautifully appointed living space in the heart of Petworth. As you enter, tall ceilings and sunlit interiors create a warm and inviting ambiance. The main level provides flexible spaces perfect for entertaining, relaxing, or working from home.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 3 BR/1.5 BA rowhome in the Michigan park area that “offers a fantastic opportunity to create your dream space with some updating and personal touches.”

Check out some of our favorite options below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

440 L Street NW #711
  • 440 L Street NW #711 — $675,000 — Mount Vernon Triangle
    Open Saturday, 12-2 p.m. — Tracey Williams Barnett
    “District City Living At Its Finest! Welcome to L at City Vista! Ideally located in Mount Vernon Triangle, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom + Den condo offers over 1,000 square feet with plenty of space to accommodate the needs of your current and future lifestyle. The sun-filled, open-concept floor plan features freshly painted walls, new lighting throughout, and bamboo flooring in the living area. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and gas cooking. You’ll enjoy the luxury of a private balcony, in-unit laundry, easily accessible trash chute and a recycle room located on the same floor, garage parking, and an additional dedicated, private storage space conveniently located in the same building. At The City Vista, ‘L’ residents enjoy boutique amenities including package collection, community rooftop deck, library, community lounge, as well as amenities in the sister building, the ‘K’, which includes a green space/park, rooftop and wrap-around pool.”
  • 2108 4th Street NE #A — $825,000 — Eckington
    Open Saturday, 1-3 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — James Thomley
    “This beautifully renovated, contemporary bi-level condo in the heart of Eckington offers the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility. The open-concept main floor features spacious living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining, along with a generously sized bedroom and full bath. The gourmet kitchen showcases quartz countertops, a large center island with breakfast bar seating, and high-end stainless steel appliances, while the private outdoor space is perfect for barbecues and gatherings.”
  • 1207 33rd Place SE — $900,000 — Hillcrest
    Open Saturday, 12-2 p.m. — Stephanie Cooper and Hillary Nash
    “THE BEST OF HILLCREST — A gorgeous contemporary-yet-classic single-family home that offers abundant space, comfort, and convenience in a superbly maintained package. The regal facade with bay window and arched entry welcomes you into a grand foyer below a cathedral ceiling. Take your time getting to know this expansive home, as you’ve got nearly 4,200 square feet of living space to explore! Fully, this home offers four bedrooms and three-and-half baths. On the main level, separate dining and living rooms, swimming in natural light that beams off the hardwood floors, bookend the foyer”
  • 1213 Holbrook Street NE #1 — $715,000 — Trinidad
    Open Saturday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Kristen Schifano
    “Discover the perfect blend of luxury and location with this exceptional 3-bedroom condo in the heart of downtown! Renovated top-to-bottom in 2021, this residence offers sophisticated urban living just minutes from the bustling H Street Corridor, where you’ll be surrounded by endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options, along with easy access to Union Market and the H Street trolley.”
  • 5403 5th Street NW #1 — $749,999 — Petworth
    Open Sunday, 1-3 p.m. — Nicola Taylor
    “Approved CofO! Experience ultimate luxury living at the brand-new 5403 Fifth Street Condominiums, Terrace Level. This exquisite residence offers a harmonious blend of modern design and comfortable living in the sought-after Petworth neighborhood. Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed baths, this terrace-level unit is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality.”

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:  1213 Holbrook Street NE #1

1213 Holbrook Street NE #1

“Discover the perfect blend of luxury and location with this exceptional 3-bedroom condo in the heart of downtown! Renovated top-to-bottom in 2021, this residence offers sophisticated urban living just minutes from the bustling H Street Corridor, where you’ll be surrounded by endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options, along with easy access to Union Market and the H Street trolley. The condo itself is a dream come true, featuring a spacious and open living area that seamlessly connects to a designer kitchen with top-tier appliances, a pot filler for convenience, and stunning quartz countertops. Enjoy the best of both worlds, with outdoor spaces in the front yard and on the back deck, perfect for relaxation and gatherings. A designated parking space is included, and the condo’s low fees make this incredible offering even more appealing. Whether you’re looking for modern amenities, unbeatable proximity to the city’s best spots, or the allure of a home that’s ready to impress, this property truly has it all. Don’t miss your chance to call this exceptional condo your own!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/6.5 BA detached Georgetown brick home with 7,900 sq. ft. across 4 levels and features a formal dining room, study/library, 2 fireplaces, wine cellar, fenced-in front yard, and a walled-in backyard with a sunroom, patio and swimming pool — all for $5.85M.
  • “This 823 square foot 1-bedroom [Wakefield condo] has it all — space, light, views and a large balcony for watching the sun come up or hosting alfresco dinner parties. And the location is wonderful — a few blocks north of the VanNess Metro and a few blocks south of Politics and Prose.”
  • “This exquisite residence offers a harmonious blend of modern design and comfortable living in the sought-after Petworth neighborhood. Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed baths, this terrace-level unit is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 4 BR/4 BA end-unit rowhome on the Petworth outskirts that is “a true diamond in the rough and ready for your personal touch” being sold AS-IS.

The DC Open House list is booming again with nearly 400 opens scheduled across the District this weekend. Check out some of our favorite options below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

1208 V Street NW
  • 1208 V Street NW — $1,599,900 — U Street Corridor
    Open Saturday, 1-3 p.m. — Christine Nieva
    “Exquisite fully move-in ready home in the heart of U St Corridor! This impeccable 4 bedrooms, 3.5 total baths, 1-car front entry garage, 1 private parking driveway space, with a large total square footage at 3024 square feet, with a dedicated separately metered apartment with a full kitchen and bath, is a MUST visit! The entry level has an area that bridges the interior entrance to the garage, the apartment, and to upstairs. The legal apartment suite is complete with a full kitchen, a large-sized full bath with a soaking tub, a large bedroom, and a sizable closet, has its own utility closet that houses its own full tank water heater, HVAC, washer and dryer, and electrical panel. The back door of the property allows entry to the beautifully paved backyard patio area that is fully fenced with a garden that can be shared with the main home. Head on upstairs to witness the freshly painted home throughout with the main level having immense lighting to the space coming through the plantation-shuttered windows, an open concept great room for entertaining with the gas fireplace, a dedicated formal dining space, state-of-the-art kitchen stainless steel appliances with gas cooking with the GE microwave newly installed and brand new for Nov 2024. There is ample cabinetry to store pantry space. The kitchen allows you to enter to the spacious composite deck that gives easy access with the stairs down to the stone patio garden, all perfect for entertaining. Head on up to the 3rd level as you’ll find this floor dedicated for the primary suite. This primary suite boasts a premiere hotel-like vibe offering a spacious area for a king-sized bedding and ample furniture, a separate room for an office space or sitting area, and a large walk-in closet with custom cabinetry. Walk through the primary bath to see the dual vanity sinks, skylight, glass shower, and a large soaking jacuzzi tub.”
  • 1207 33rd Place SE — $900,000 — Hillcrest
    Open Saturday, 12-2 p.m. — Steph Cooper and Hillary Nash
    “Take your time getting to know this expansive home, as you’ve got nearly 4,200 square feet of living space to explore! Fully, this home offers four bedrooms and three-and-half baths. On the main level, separate dining and living rooms, swimming in natural light that beams off the hardwood floors, bookend the foyer.”
  • 5200 Kansas Avenue NW — $1,000,000 — Brightwood Park
    Open Sunday, 1-3 p.m. — Joe Himali
    “A stunning, fully renovated from top-to-bottom, end-of-row townhome in the heart of Petworth that offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience. The main level opens to a foyer and offers gracious room proportions with a large, sun-filled living room that benefits from three exposures, allowing natural light to pour in throughout the day.”
  • 1213 Holbrook Street NE #1 — $715,000 — Trinidad
    Open Saturday, 12-2 p.m. — Kristen Schifano
    “Discover the perfect blend of luxury and location with this exceptional 3-bedroom condo in the heart of downtown! Renovated top-to-bottom in 202,” this “condo itself is a dream come true, featuring a spacious and open living area that seamlessly connects to a designer kitchen with top-tier appliances, a pot filler for convenience, and stunning quartz countertops.”
  • 602 Sheridan Street NW — $810,000 — Brightwood
    Open Sunday, 1-3 p.m. — Mandy and Tim Hursen Jr.
    $40K PRICE IMPROVEMENT: “Stunning, fully renovated semi-detached [4 BR/2.5 BA] townhome is move-in ready, with almost 1900 square feet of beautifully finished living space.”
  • 3110 Elm Street NE — $400,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. — Tohmai Smith
    “A unique property in the Woodbridge neighborhood with incredible potential. This home features a separate accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with its own full kitchen and bathroom, making it an ideal space for rental income or multi-generational living.”

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: 1202 34th SE

1202 34th SE

“NEW CONSTRUCTION 5-bedroom, 4.5 bath haven nestled in the highly sought-after area of Hillcrest. Be prepared to be captivated by the timeless charm and impeccable craftsmanship showcased throughout this remarkable residence spanning nearly 3200sf of living space. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light and a well-designed floor plan seamlessly combining opulence and comfort while incorporating modern amenities for a truly elevated living experience. Indulge in the open-concept living area, where a cozy fireplace beckons you to unwind and create cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or simply enjoying quiet moments with family and friends, this space offers the perfect ambiance. Adjacent to the living area is a gourmet kitchen that will delight even the most discerning culinary enthusiast featuring high-end stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, and an abundance of cabinet space for all your storage needs. Then a dining area that leads out to a lovely patio, perfect for friends and family gatherings. The second level offers three generously sized bedrooms with ensuite baths and a convenient washer/dryer to ensure that comfort and convenience are never compromised. The primary bedroom suite with its own balcony is a true sanctuary, boasting a luxurious spa-like bathroom featuring a soaking tub, shower, and double vanities. Relaxation and rejuvenation become a daily indulgence. The lower level of this magnificent abode presents two additional bedrooms, a cozy family room, a laundry area, and an entrance leading to a two-car garage providing versatility and options to suit your lifestyle. Beautiful white oak flooring, recessed lighting, stylish light fixtures, and a blue-tooth sound system throughout are just a few of the many coveted features that enhance this extraordinary residence.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/5.5 BA Berkley new construction detached home built in 2024 with 5,200+ total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features a large front porch with a swing, open layout with tons of natural sunlight, wood-burning fireplace, 1-car garage, mudroom, and a loft level — all for $3.1M.
  • “Nestled in a quiet area, this [2 BR/1 BA Deanwood] home offers peaceful living while being just moments from city amenities. Move-in, ready and waiting for your personal touch. This property combines comfort with the potential for your unique style.”
  • “Impeccably designed with sleek lines and high-end finishes, this [5 BR/4.5 BA Petworth] home is flooded with natural light through expansive windows, highlighting its thoughtfully crafted interiors. The open-concept layout seamlessly flows from spacious living areas to the chef-inspired kitchen, making it an ideal space for both intimate gatherings and grand entertaining.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 4 BR/3 BA Randle Heights detached home that “includes a first-floor bedroom and full bathroom, ideal for an in-law suite or guest quarters,” with an “open floor plan [that] provides a seamless flow between the living spaces, while the gourmet kitchen is a dream for any chef, complete with modern amenities.”

It’s a down week for our weekly DC Open House count but there are still more than 300 options from which to choose across the District. Take a look at our favorites below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

2820 6th Street NE
  • 2820 6th Street NE — $845,000 — Edgewood
    Open Saturday, 1-3 p.m. — Nicole Roeberg
    “Fully renovated 4 BD/3.5 BA home with 2 off-street parking spaces in the Brookland Neighborhood. Bright, airy and open floorplan with hardwood flooring on main level and upper level, and designer tile on lower level. The main level features open living space in the front, a beautiful bright kitchen in the center with a pantry and powder room, and dining in the back with a glass patio door, opening to the spacious backyard deck. The upper level features the primary bedroom with vaulted ceilings and 3 skylights and ensuite bathroom, with an additional 2 bedrooms and one bathroom. The lower level has its own entrance through the rear, leading to a concrete parking pad and decking above. The lower level has a bedroom and full bathroom, as well as a living area space. The lower level also contains the laundry room, with a second laundry hookup available on the upper level. The lower level living area is already fitted with plumbing to install a kitchenette. Just take down the drywall!”
  • 1211 13th Street NW #T4 — $435,000 — Logan Circle
    Open Saturday and Sunday, 12-2 p.m. — Molly Branson and Jocelyn Vas
    “Looking to experience city living at its finest? This bright and spacious [1 BR/1 BA] 750-square-foot condo is waiting for you” with 10’ ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, a gourmet kitchen and a spacious bedroom.
  • 2108 4th Street NE #A — $859,900 — Eckington
    Open Saturday, 2-4 p.m. — James Thomley
    BACK ON THE MARKET: “This beautifully renovated, contemporary bi-level condo in the heart of Eckington offers the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility. The open-concept main floor features spacious living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining, along with a generously sized bedroom and full bath.”
  • 3604 11th Street NW — $1,200,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Saturday, 12-2 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “Stepping up from the residential, one-way street, past the quaint front garden, you’ll be tempted to have a seat on the welcoming front porch, complete with ceiling fan, to make warm evenings wondrous. But don’t stop there — you’ve got so much to explore!”
  • 4038 D Street SE — $455,000 — Fort Dupont
    Open Sunday, 1-3 p.m. — Lorielle Akintunde
    “This beautiful semi-detached home boasts 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a host of exceptional features that make it a true gem. Step inside to discover an open floor plan filled with natural light and elegant hardwood floors throughout.”
  • 5126 Warren Place NW — $2,199,000 — Spring Valley
    Open Saturday, 2-4 p.m. — Adriana Ruan
    “Welcome to your dream home! 5126 Warren Place is a stunning three story home nestled in one of Spring Valley’s most coveted locations. This rarely available model boasts three fully finished floors of beautifully designed living space, filled with abundant natural light and crafted for both comfort and elegance.”
  • 53 T Street NE #2 — $815,000 — Eckington
    Open Saturday, 9-11 a.m. — Peter Paglio
    “This exquisite penthouse condo boasts three spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms, perfectly designed for comfort and style. Step into the gourmet kitchen, where culinary dreams come to life with top-of-the-line Bosch appliances and a stunning quartz waterfall island.”
  • 915 E Street NW #611 — $375,000 — Penn Quarter
    Open Sunday, 12-2 p.m. — Steve Gaich
    “Welcome home to this spacious 1 bedroom condo located in the vibrant and lively neighborhood of Penn Quarter. This unit has been updated with brand new floors and paint throughout the entire space.”

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

Thoughts on the Security Clearance Appeal Process

Security clearance appeals take place when individuals get denied while applying for a security clearance. They can also occur when an individual with a security clearance has their clearance revoked. Security clearance appeals can have important ramifications for your career.

In many cases, losing a security clearance can result in losing your position. We represent government contractors, federal employees and military personnel in security clearance appeals.

Each Agency’s Appeal Procedures are Different

Every federal agency handles security clearance appeals differently. While the right to a security clearance appeal comes from Executive Order 12968, agencies have developed their own policies in implementation.

Some agencies, like the Department of Defense and Department of Energy, incorporate an administrative judge hearing process. These types of appeals are essentially administrative court proceedings, with the government represented by an attorney. Other agencies, like the Department of Homeland Security, incorporates a written response and personal appearance process, which is less formal. Many of the Intelligence Community agencies provide the opportunity to submit a written response and meet with adjudicators during a personal appearance.

While there are many different procedures for security clearance appeals, there are many things in common.

Common Considerations in Security Clearance Appeals

While there may be different procedures by different federal agencies in the security clearance appeals process, there are many similar considerations. These include:

  1. Obtain Legal Advice Early: Obtaining legal representation early in the security clearance appeals process is extremely important. Too often we see security clearance appeals that have gone too far in the process before an attorney is hired, which often lowers the odds of ultimate success. Ideally, individuals with security concerns should meet with an experienced security clearance lawyer before submitting their initial security clearance forms. If not then, it is important to have a security clearance lawyer help them respond to a Statement of Response (SOR) or Notice of Intent to Revoke a Security Clearance.
  2. Obtain Critical Documentation: Many individuals are not aware and not advised about the level of detail and documentation needed to present a strong security clearance appeal. Depending on the particular case, we may need to obtain government records, performance evaluations, documents that address the security concerns, witness statements, awards, character letters and other mitigating documentation to present the best possible security clearance appeal.
  3. Draft a Comprehensive Written Response to the Security Concerns: In many cases individuals handling their own initial responses don’t realize the level of detail needed in their written response to address the security concerns. Some individuals write in “I admit” on the SOR or prepare a short paragraph responding to the concerns. A response, to be successful, must give a complete and detailed explanation about the security concerns raised by the Government. These responses tend to run 10-14 pages and along with the exhibits attached can run 25 to 40 pages. Additionally, the response has to provide detailed information about who you are as a person. The Whole-Person Concept, an overview of you and your experience and life is critical to help resolve a security clearance appeal.
  4. Be Fully Prepared for the Administrative Judge Hearing or Personal Appearance: When the time comes for an administrative judge hearing or personal appearance on the security clearance appeal it is critical to be prepared. A security clearance attorney can assist you in preparing for these processes. You will want to be able to answer questions clearly about the security concerns, your background and other issues. Additionally, in administrative judge proceedings you will want to be prepared for a government attorney’s cross-examination. For personal appearances, you will want to be prepared to address critical questions raised by the reviewing official.

Contact Us

Each security clearance appeal is unique, so individuals are advised to have counsel advise and represent them as early in the process as possible. If you need assistance with a security clearance issue, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.


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: 1206 34th SE

1206 34th SE

“Welcome to this exquisite NEW CONSTRUCTION 5-bedroom, 4.5 bath haven nestled in the highly sought-after area of Hillcrest. Be prepared to be captivated by the timeless charm and impeccable craftsmanship showcased throughout this remarkable residence spanning nearly 3200sf of living space. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light and a well-designed floor plan seamlessly combining opulence and comfort, while incorporating modern amenities for a truly elevated living experience. Indulge in the open-concept living area, where a cozy fireplace beckons you to unwind and create cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or simply enjoying quiet moments with family and friends, this space offers the perfect ambiance. Adjacent to the living area is a gourmet kitchen that will delight even the most discerning culinary enthusiast featuring high-end stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, and an abundance of cabinet space for all your storage needs. Then a dining area that leads out to a lovely patio perfect for friends and family gatherings. Second level offers three generously sized bedrooms with ensuite baths and a convenient washer/dryer to ensure that comfort and convenience are never compromised. The primary bedroom suite with its own balcony is a true sanctuary, boasting a luxurious spa-like bathroom featuring a soaking tub, shower, and double vanities. Relaxation and rejuvenation become a daily indulgence. The lower level of this magnificent abode presents two additional bedrooms, a cozy family room, laundry area, and an entrance leading to a two-car garage providing versatility and options to suit your lifestyle. Beautiful white oak flooring, recessed lighting, stylish light fixtures, and a blue-tooth sound system throughout are just a few of the many coveted features that enhance this extraordinary residence. Located on a beautiful street complete with lovely mature trees and neighbors, this home offers the perfect balance of serenity and accessibility.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/6.5 BA Georgian-style mansion in Kent with 8,800 total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features 5 fireplaces, a 3-car garage, in-home elevator, a massive primary suite and a gorgeous backyard with a large stone patio, swimming pool and pool house — all for $6M.
  • “Welcome home to this spacious 1 bedroom condo located in the vibrant and lively neighborhood of Penn Quarter. This unit has been updated with brand new floors and paint throughout the entire space.”
  • “Look no further for your detached home in Petworth, designer finishes make this home anything but cookie cutter. Hardwood floors throughout the main level, open concept living area, and tons of natural light.”
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a 1 BR/1 BA Navy Yard condo that is currently occupied and being sold with occupants in AS-IS condition and the new owner “is assuming ALL responsibility for any necessary eviction action,”

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