Market Update December 29, 2025

Why I’m Optimistic About the 2026 Housing Market

Let’s be honest — the last few years in real estate have kept us all on our toes. From rising rates to tight inventory, navigating the housing market has been anything but predictable. But as we look ahead to 2026, I want to share why I’m genuinely optimistic about what’s coming.

This isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s based on current data, expert insights, and what I’m seeing right here in Fairfax and across Northern Virginia.


💬 Buyer Confidence Is Coming Back

More and more buyers are reaching out, asking smart questions, and getting back into the market after taking a breather. Why? Because many have realized that waiting for a “perfect” time often means missing out altogether.

Mortgage rates are starting to stabilize, and while they’re not back to pandemic lows (and probably won’t be), they’re finding a middle ground that feels more manageable for many.


🧭 Sellers Are Getting More Realistic

The days of listing high and expecting bidding wars within hours are behind us — and that’s okay. Sellers are pricing more competitively and investing in pre-listing improvements to stand out. As your local agent, I’m seeing more realistic conversations and smoother negotiations, which is a win for everyone.


🛠️ New Construction Is Expanding Options

Builders are catching up — slowly but surely. In Northern Virginia, I’m seeing more new developments, townhomes, and communities offering incentives and move-in-ready options for buyers. These homes are helping ease inventory pressure, especially for first-time buyers.


📈 Equity Is Still Working in Your Favor

If you already own a home, odds are you’ve built solid equity — and that’s a huge financial win. As home prices remain steady or grow modestly in 2026, equity will continue to be one of the most powerful tools in your financial toolkit.


💡 What This Means for You

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, now is a great time to reconnect with your real estate goals. I’m here to help you read between the headlines and make confident, informed moves.

Let’s chat — no pressure, just clarity.


📍 Need help navigating the Northern Virginia market?
Visit: My Active Listings
📥 Book a consultation: Contact Samantha
📘 Related Read: Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run

Community Spotlight December 23, 2025

Best Places to Meet in Fairfax County

Fairfax County isn’t just a great place to live—it’s also a great place to connect. Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking for fresh gathering spots, there are many welcoming places to meet in Fairfax County. From cozy cafés to outdoor parks and creative venues, the area offers something for every type of meetup.

Below are some of my favorite local spots for meeting friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues.


☕ Cozy Coffee Shops – Easy Places to Meet in Fairfax County

Sometimes the best conversations happen over coffee. Luckily, Fairfax County has several relaxed cafés that are perfect for casual meetups or working sessions.

  • Third Wave Café – A local favorite known for great espresso and a calm vibe. Ideal for quick catch-ups or informal meetings.
    🔗 https://www.yelp.com

  • Bird & Brew – Friendly atmosphere with comfortable seating, making it a great option for laid-back conversations.
    🔗 https://www.yelp.com

Because these cafés often offer Wi-Fi and flexible seating, they’re some of the most convenient places to meet in Fairfax County.


🏛️ Unique Venues & Cultural Meeting Spots

If you want a meetup that feels memorable, Fairfax County has cultural and creative spaces that add personality to any gathering.

These venues offer more than just a place to sit—they create experiences.


🌳 Outdoor Places to Meet in Fairfax County

Meeting outdoors can feel refreshing and relaxed, especially during mild weather. Fortunately, Fairfax County is full of scenic parks.

Because these parks are easy to access and welcoming, they’re some of the best outdoor places to meet in Fairfax County.


🤝 Social Groups & Community Meetups

If you’re hoping to meet new people, Fairfax County offers plenty of group activities and social clubs.

Platforms like Meetup host events focused on hiking, fitness, dining, and shared hobbies. These groups are especially helpful for newcomers or anyone expanding their social circle.
🔗 https://www.meetup.com


🍽️ Restaurants & Bars for Group Gatherings

For larger groups, restaurants and bars provide comfortable settings for conversation. Many Fairfax dining spots offer patios, private rooms, or group seating. To find current favorites near you, Yelp’s local listings are a helpful starting point.
🔗 https://www.yelp.com


🏡 Why Meeting Places Matter When Choosing Where to Live

As a Northern Virginia Realtor, I always remind clients that lifestyle matters. Access to great places to meet in Fairfax County adds real value to everyday life. Whether it’s coffee with neighbors, walks in local parks, or meeting friends for dinner, these spaces help communities feel connected.

If you’re looking for a home near vibrant gathering spots and lifestyle amenities, I’d love to help.

👉 Explore homes near great Fairfax meeting spots:
https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings

📩 Reach out anytime to talk neighborhoods, lifestyle, and local favorites!

Listing December 23, 2025

Just Listed: Charming Fairfax Townhome at 4445 Holly Ave

I’m excited to share a just listed opportunity in Fairfax, VA that’s perfect for buyers seeking space, style, and convenience: 4445 Holly Avenue, a beautifully updated end‑unit townhouse with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and nearly 1,900 square feet of flexible living space.

This home was just brought to market and is ready for its next chapter — whether you’re looking for your first home, a downsizing option, or a great investment in an unbeatable location.


🏡 Property Highlights

This Fairfax gem delivers a thoughtful layout and quality upgrades throughout:

  • Spacious open floor plan that feels bright and welcoming

  • Hardwood floors on the main level

  • Eat‑in kitchen with updated tile flooring and modern appliances

  • Finished lower level offering flexible space for work, play, or guest living

  • Private deck overlooking trees — perfect for morning coffee or evening wind‑downs

  • Assigned parking plus visitor spaces

With its end‑unit position, this townhome offers extra privacy and a sense of space you won’t always find in condo‑style living.


📍 Prime Fairfax Location

Located in the sought‑after Glen Alden community, this townhome puts you close to everything Northern Virginia has to offer:

  • Easy access to Route 29/Lee Highway

  • Minutes to shopping, dining, and entertainment

  • Commuter routes to DC, Tysons, Mosaic District, and major employment centers

  • Parks, trails, and community amenities within reach

If you’re looking for a home that blends convenience, community, and character — this one delivers.


🗓 Open House & Showing Details

This home is just listed and available for private tours. Don’t miss your chance to experience this space in person.

Schedule a showing today — contact me for available tour times and details.


📊 Why This Matters Now

Homes like this aren’t sitting long in the Fairfax market. With strong demand for move‑in ready properties in desirable locations, buyers who act quickly often come out ahead — whether they’re first‑time buyers or seasoned investors.


📞 Ready to See It?

I’d love to help you explore this beautiful home and support your homeownership goals — whether you’re buying now or planning for the future.

👉 View the full listing here: https://samsellsnova.com/listing/VA/Fairfax/4445-Holly-Avenue-22030/219204189
👉 Browse other homes: https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings
📩 Contact me to schedule your private tour or ask questions!

Market Update December 22, 2025

Are Headlines Scaring You About Your Home’s Value?

If you’ve seen alarming home value headlines lately, you’re not alone. News stories and social media posts often suggest prices are falling fast. Naturally, that can feel unsettling—especially when your home is one of your biggest assets.
However, headlines don’t always tell the full story. Let’s look at what’s really happening and why most homeowners still have solid equity.


Home Value Headlines Don’t Tell the Same Story Everywhere

First, it’s important to understand that real estate is local. Some home value headlines focus on price dips in specific regions. That does not mean values are dropping everywhere.

In fact, national data shows many markets are still seeing modest price growth. Experts expect prices to remain stable through 2025 and into 2026, even if growth is slower than during the boom years.
🔗 https://www.cbsnews.com

As a result, many homeowners are still well above what they paid for their homes.


Why Some Home Value Headlines Sound So Scary

Next, consider how headlines are written. They often highlight short-term shifts without context. For example:

  • Some areas slow seasonally during fall and winter

  • Certain regions see brief demand changes tied to inventory

  • News stories may focus on one state, not the national market
    🔗 https://www.axios.com

Meanwhile, assessed values and market values are not the same—and are often confused in reporting.
Because of this, home value headlines can feel far worse than reality.


What the Data Actually Shows

When you look beyond headlines, the data tells a calmer story:

  • Home prices nationally are still edging upward

  • Mortgage rates influence demand, but don’t erase value overnight

  • Balanced inventory helps support prices
    🔗 https://finance.yahoo.com

In other words, normal market shifts are not the same as a crash.


Why Your Home Likely Still Has Strong Value

Even if the market feels quieter than a few years ago, most homeowners still have meaningful equity. That’s because:

  • Home values rise over time

  • Mortgage balances go down each month

  • Short-term fluctuations don’t undo long-term growth

So while home value headlines may grab attention, equity doesn’t disappear overnight.


A Local Look at Northern Virginia Home Values

Here in Northern Virginia, fundamentals still matter. Areas like Fairfax, Vienna, and Chantilly benefit from:

  • Strong job centers

  • Top-rated schools

  • Transit access and amenities

Because of this, local home values tend to hold steady—even when national headlines feel noisy.


Bottom Line on Home Value Headlines

Before reacting to a headline:

  • Look at local data, not just national news

  • Remember that slower growth is still growth

  • Talk with a local expert who knows your neighborhood

If you’re curious how today’s market affects your home’s value, I’m happy to help.

👉 Explore active listings & local market updates:
https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings

📩 Reach out anytime for a custom home value review.

Community Spotlight December 19, 2025

Best Sledding Spots in Fairfax County

If you’re looking for the best sledding spots in Fairfax County, you’re in for a treat. This region transforms into a winter playground when the snow hits, offering top-notch hills and safe spots for families and thrill-seekers alike. Here are my favorite local sledding hills and tips for making the most of your snow day.


❄️ 1. Frying Pan Farm Park – Herndon

Why it’s great: Gentle slopes and wide open space make this ideal for young kids and families.
Bonus: Visit the farm animals after sledding!
📍 2709 West Ox Rd, Herndon, VA
🔗 Learn more about Frying Pan Farm Park


❄️ 2. Eakin Community Park – Chantilly

Why it’s great: Varying slope sizes and great visibility make this a versatile spot.
📍 4420 Stringfellow Rd, Chantilly, VA
🔗 Park details


❄️ 3. Van Dyck Park – Fairfax

Why it’s great: Long, consistent hills offer an exciting ride for older kids and teens.
📍 3720 Old Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA
🔗 Van Dyck Park info


❄️ 4. Wakefield Park – Annandale

Why it’s great: Rolling hills and open space make it great for both play and relaxing walks.
📍 8100 Braddock Rd, Annandale, VA
🔗 Visit Wakefield Park


❄️ 5. Lee District Park – Alexandria/Fairfax County

Why it’s great: Great slope variety and a well-maintained setting.
📍 6601 Telegraph Rd, Alexandria, VA
🔗 Lee District Park info


🏡 Love Local Living in Fairfax?

Fairfax County isn’t just great for snow days — it’s an incredible place to live year-round. From parks to top-rated schools and community events, there’s something here for everyone.

👉 Browse my current Fairfax listings
👉 Read more local tips and blogs


Sledding Tips for Families

  • 🧤 Bundle up: Waterproof layers, boots, and gloves make all the difference.
  • 🛷 Bring gear: Use sleds with handles for younger kids.
  • Warm up after: Plan a stop at a local café like Foundation Coffee Roasters for a cozy treat.
  • 📸 Capture memories: Sledding days make the best family photos!

 

Community Spotlight December 19, 2025

What to Do on a Layover at Dulles International Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) — whether it’s a few hours or most of a day — you’re in one of the best places to turn a boring wait into a fun adventure. Dulles isn’t just a gateway to the world; it’s surrounded by fascinating places and quick outings that show off some of what Northern Virginia and the greater DC area have to offer. FXVA


🛫 Explore Right Near the Airport

Even if you don’t want to leave the airport, you’ve got options to make the most of your layover:

Shop & Eat at the Airport

Dulles offers a variety of shops and dining options to help pass the time. From duty‑free stores to quick bites and sit‑down eateries, you can explore travel essentials or grab a meal before your next flight. Tripadvisor

Relax in a Lounge

If you prefer comfort and downtime, consider purchasing a day pass to one of the airport lounges. Many offer snacks, drinks, Wi‑Fi, and comfortable seating — perfect for catching up on rest or work. Sleeping in Airports


🚗 Short Outings Close to IAD

If your layover is 5–8 hours or more, you might want to step outside the airport and see something special nearby:

Steven F. Udvar‑Hazy Center (National Air & Space Museum)

Just minutes from the airport, this Smithsonian museum is one of the most incredible aviation attractions in the country. You’ll find historic aircraft like the Space Shuttle Discovery, the Enola Gay, and tons of other spacecraft and aviation artifacts. Admission is free, and it’s a perfect way to spend a few hours learning and exploring. Wikipedia

Historical Herndon Town Center

If you want a local vibe, nearby Herndon offers small‑town charm with cafes, boutiques, breweries, and historic sites. It’s a quick drive or short transit ride from IAD and makes for a relaxed layover escape. FXVA


🏞️ Natural & Scenic Stops

If you’re itching to stretch your legs and enjoy fresh air:

Great Falls Park

About a 20–25 minute drive from Dulles, Great Falls Park features stunning Potomac River cascades and scenic overlooks that are easy to enjoy even on a short visit — great for a quick nature reset before your next flight. FXVA

Traveler Tip: Always allow plenty of time to return to the airport, clear security, and get to your gate. Most long layovers (8+ hours) are a good time to plan these short excursions. FXVA


🏙️ If You Have Plenty of Time…

For the truly adventurous traveler with 8+ hours or more and light luggage, a quick trip into Washington, D.C. can be doable — but plan carefully:

  • Visit the National Mall — monuments, memorials, and world‑class Smithsonian museums await (though travel time from Dulles can be significant due to traffic). dclivery.com

  • Hop on public transit — use buses and the Silver Line Metro from nearby stations to explore areas like Arlington, Tysons Corner, or even downtown DC.

Just be sure to account for travel time back to the airport and extra time for security. Sleeping in Airports


✈️ Make the Most of Travel Time

Layovers don’t have to be boring! Whether you’re exploring aviation history at a world‑class museum, discovering charming local neighborhoods, enjoying scenic parks, or just relaxing with a good meal and a lounge pass, there’s plenty to do around Dulles International Airport to make your wait worthwhile. FXVA


📍 Quick Recap

  • Short layover: Shopping, dining, airport lounges

  • Medium layover: Udvar‑Hazy Center, Herndon downtown

  • Long layover: Great Falls Park, quick DC tour with planning


If you’re traveling through Northern Virginia — or considering calling this area home — I’d love to help you discover more about the lifestyle here. Explore my active listings or reach out to talk about homes near Dulles, Fairfax, or anywhere in NoVA!

👉 https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings

Buyers Tip December 18, 2025

Top 3 Housing Market Questions This Season

The holidays are here, and guess what topic keeps coming up around dinner tables, office parties, and family gatherings? The housing market. Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just curious, three questions keep popping up again and again — and understanding the answers can help you feel confident in your real‑estate decisions. {{.site_name}}


🏠 1. Can I Actually Find a Home If I Want to Move?

The short answer is yes — and in more places than you might expect. After years of tight inventory, we’re seeing more homes come onto the market nationally and locally. According to data from Realtor.com, there have been over one million homes listed for several months — a milestone not seen since before the pandemic. That means buyers today have more options than they did even a year or two ago. Bayou City Life

For Northern Virginia buyers, that means broader choices across neighborhoods — whether you’re looking in Fairfax City, Chantilly, Vienna, or beyond. With more homes available, you’re less likely to feel rushed into decisions and more likely to find something that fits your lifestyle and budget.


💸 2. Will I Ever Be Able to Afford a House?

Affordability has been one of the most talked‑about challenges for years. But there’s positive movement here too. Mortgage rates — while still higher than the rock‑bottom lows of recent history — have eased from their peaks, and slowing price growth has helped ease the monthly payment burden for many buyers. Jet Direct Mortgage

Combined with a market that’s not as overheated as it was during the frenzy years, this gives many buyers real purchasing power. You might not see dramatic price drops, but a more balanced market and manageable mortgage payments make homeownership feel more achievable.


⏳ 3. Should I Wait for Prices to Drop?

This is one of the most common concerns. Many people wonder if prices will collapse or slide significantly soon. The data — and local trends — suggest that major price declines aren’t likely. Inventory has increased, but not to a level that would push prices sharply downward nationwide. Meanwhile, homeowners hold strong equity positions, and demand still exists in many areas. {{.site_name}}+1

Instead of waiting for a theoretical “perfect” market, buyers and sellers alike benefit from focusing on their individual goals and timing. Today’s conditions offer real opportunities — with more choices for buyers and a still‑healthy baseline of demand that keeps values supported.


📍 What This Means for You

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the market:

✅ Buyers have more options and flexibility.
✅ Affordability trends are easing — even if rates remain elevated.
✅ A major price crash isn’t on the near‑term horizon.

In Northern Virginia, markets like Fairfax, Burke, and Centreville are showing variations of these broader trends — which means local expertise matters more than ever when interpreting national data.


💬 Let’s Talk Strategy

If you’re planning a move — sooner rather than later — I’d love to walk you through how these trends play out locally. Together, we can build a strategy that makes sense for your lifestyle, budget, and timeline.

👉 Explore my active listings: https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings
📩 Contact me any time to start the conversation.

Buyers Tip December 18, 2025

Is January the Best Time to Buy a Home?

If you’re planning your home purchase for early 2026, you’ve likely wondered: Is January really the best time to buy a home? While the answer depends on personal goals and local market conditions, there are some real advantages to kicking off your home search early in the year — especially compared with busier spring and summer seasons.

Let’s explore what makes January (and the early winter months around it) worth considering for buyers.


📉 Less Competition Can Mean Better Deals

One of the biggest perks of January home buying is reduced competition. After the holiday season, many buyers take a break — which means fewer people are competing for the same homes. With fewer bids on a property, you’re more likely to negotiate on price or terms. This reduced buying frenzy gives you leverage that simply doesn’t exist during peak spring and summer markets. Madrona Group


💰 Potential for Lower Prices

Many market reports have shown that home prices tend to soften in winter — especially in January — compared with peak buying months like spring and summer. Historically, prices can dip slightly in January, offering savings that may add up to thousands over the life of your loan. HAR

This seasonal dip doesn’t always guarantee drastic price drops, but it does often result in more favorable conditions for buyers. Fewer buyers mean sellers are more open to negotiation, and some homes sit on the market longer — giving you time to make thoughtful decisions. National Mortgage Professional


🗓️ More Time & Flexibility

Homes listed in January typically stay on the market longer than in the busy spring months. That means you may have more time to consider your options, complete inspections, and negotiate without feeling rushed. In a fast‑moving market, that added breathing room can be a big advantage — especially if you’re juggling multiple priorities like work and holidays. National Mortgage Professional


📊 Balance Better Timing with Your Goals

While many buyers see January as a strong buying opportunity, it’s not the only good time to buy. Spring and summer often bring more inventory — but also more competition. Conversely, winter and early January may have fewer listings, but the homes available often attract serious buyers and sellers motivated to close.

Here’s how to think about it:

  • January–February: Less competition, more negotiating power.

  • Spring–Summer: More inventory, but higher demand.

  • Fall–Winter: Motivated sellers and strategic buyers. The Preferred Realty


🏡 Your Local Market Matters

Seasonal patterns are helpful, but real estate is hyper‑local. Northern Virginia’s market doesn’t always mirror national trends exactly — including Fairfax, Vienna, or Prince William County. That’s where working with a local expert makes all the difference. I can help you understand how seasonal timing plays out here — not just nationally — so you make the most informed decision.


🧠 Final Thought: Timing + Strategy

Yes, January can be a great time to buy — especially if you want less competition, potential pricing advantages, and a smoother negotiation process. But the best time to buy ultimately depends on your needs, financial situation, and readiness.

If you’re thinking about starting your home search early this year, let’s talk strategy.

👉 Explore my active listings: https://samsellsnova.com/listings/my-active-listings
📩 Contact me to plan your home search and find the right property at the right time.

Sellers Tip December 17, 2025

Why Selling Your Home This Winter Makes Sense

Thinking of waiting until spring to list your home? You may want to reconsider. Selling your home this winter can actually give you a real advantage in Northern Virginia. Since fewer homes hit the market, your listing can stand out more. Plus, winter buyers are often ready to move.

Selling Your Home This Winter Means Less Competition

In winter, many homeowners pause their plans. As a result, there are fewer listings for buyers to choose from. That means your home can get more attention. In addition, fewer competing homes can help your listing feel more “rare,” which may support stronger offers.

Selling Your Home This Winter Attracts Serious Buyers

Winter buyers are usually not casual shoppers. Instead, many are moving for a job, a lease ending, or a family timeline. Because of that, they tend to act faster once they find the right home. So, if your home shows well and is priced correctly, winter can be a great time to sell.

Winter Staging Helps Buyers Feel at Home

Winter is perfect for creating a cozy first impression. For example, warm lighting, a clean entryway, and simple seasonal touches can help buyers connect emotionally. At the same time, you’ll want to keep décor minimal so your home still feels open and bright.

Interest Rates and Timing Can Work in Your Favor

Rates can shift quickly. Therefore, some buyers want to lock in a purchase sooner rather than later. Even if rates move down later, motivated buyers may still choose to move now and refinance later.

For more on mortgage trends and buyer activity, here are two helpful resources:

Bottom Line: Selling Your Home This Winter Can Be a Smart Move

If you’re considering a move, don’t wait for the spring rush. Selling your home this winter may help you stand out, attract serious buyers, and sell with less competition.

📲 Ready for a winter selling plan?

Sellers Tip December 17, 2025

Is Buyer Demand Picking Up. What Sellers Should Know

If you’ve been watching the housing market through the end of 2025, one question pops up again and again: “Is buyer demand picking back up?” For sellers — especially in competitive areas like Fairfax, Vienna, and Centreville — understanding this shift is key to timing your move and maximizing your home’s value. Let’s break down what’s happening now and what it could mean for you.


📈 Buyer Interest Is Gaining Momentum

After a period of cautious activity, recent data shows buyer demand trending upward — particularly as rates have stabilized and inventory remains balanced. More buyers are stepping off the sidelines, and many have clear motivations like job relocations, family needs, or finding space for multi‑generational living.

This renewed interest doesn’t mean a frenzy like during the pandemic, but it does signal a healthier, more engaged group of qualified buyers.


🏡 Why This Matters to You as a Seller

When demand rises — even moderately — it can translate into:

  • More showings per listing

  • Faster contract timelines

  • Stronger negotiating power

  • Better price outcomes

It also helps reduce the length of time homes stay on the market — especially those priced right and presented well. In Northern Virginia, where amenities, schools, and commuter access are big draws, buyers are still willing to pay for value when the timing and home condition align.


🔍 What Buyers Are Looking For

Today’s buyers tend to focus on:

📍 Location stability — proximity to Metro, good schools, and everyday conveniences
🛠 Move‑in ready or well‑maintained homes
🌳 Outdoor space or home offices
💰 Budget certainty — buyers want clear expectations on monthly costs

Homes that check these boxes continue to hold appeal — and can benefit from increased demand.


📊 A Balanced Market Helps Everyone

A moderate rise in buyer demand, paired with a healthy inventory, creates a balanced market — not too hot, not too slow. That’s ideal for sellers who want:

✔ Confidence their home will attract genuine offers
✔ A smoother transaction timeline
✔ Realistic pricing that reflects current values

For buyers, it means less bidding war stress and more opportunity to choose the right home.


🧠 Expert Tip for Sellers

If you’re considering selling in 2026:

  • Price it right from the start. Homes that enter the market competitively tend to attract more attention and higher‑quality offers.

  • Prepare for showings. Staging, repairs, and great photography still matter.

  • Leverage demand trends. With buyer interest rising, you may receive more activity and stronger feedback early in your listing period.


🏡 Your Local Market Matters

While national trends are helpful, real estate is hyper‑local. What’s happening in Fairfax City, Burke, or Oakton can differ from broader headlines. That’s where a local expert becomes invaluable. I track real data and local buyer behavior — so you don’t have to.


🔗 Learn More & Take Action

Curious about buyer demand right now in Northern Virginia?
📊 Check out current market insights and home values here: My Active Listings & Market Reports

Thinking about selling in the new year?
📩 Let’s connect and create a strategy that fits your goals and timing.