Events • October 30, 2025

Fall Fun at Cox Farms: A Northern Virginia Tradition

by Samantha Bard

Fall Fun at Cox Farms: A Northern Virginia Tradition

What makes Cox Farms a must-visit spot in Northern Virginia each fall?

If you’re looking for a local tradition that delivers fun for all ages, look no further than Cox Farms in Centreville. From the legendary Fall Festival to spooky nighttime thrills, this family-run farm is a seasonal staple for Northern Virginia residents.

Why Locals Love It

Cox Farms offers a little bit of everything:

A massive corn maze and hayrides
Farm animals and fresh cider donuts
Live entertainment, giant slides, and pumpkin picking
“Fields of Fear” for teens and adults looking for a scare after dark

It’s not just a farm visit—it’s an all-day adventure that families come back to year after year.

Bonus Spooky Stop: Workhouse Arts Center’s Haunted Trail

Looking for another way to get your Halloween thrills? Don’t miss the Workhouse Haunt: Game Over in Lorton, VA. This immersive haunted trail blends storytelling, live performances, and special effects to create a chilling experience.

Visit Workhouse Haunt to learn more and grab your tickets before they sell out.

A Local Lifestyle Highlight

As a local REALTOR®, I always encourage clients to explore community landmarks like this. Events like Cox Farms’ Fall Festival and the Workhouse Haunt show just how much Northern Virginia has to offer beyond the four walls of a home. It’s places like this that help people fall in love with where they live.

Thinking about making a move to (or within) Northern Virginia? I’m Samantha Bard with Sam Sells NOVA, here to guide you with local knowledge and a client-first approach.

Let’s connect and chat about your real estate goals—maybe over cider donuts!

Market Update • October 30, 2025

2026 Housing Market Outlook: What Northern Virginia Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

by Samantha Bard

What can you expect from the housing market in 2026 if you’re buying or selling in Northern Virginia?

Real estate experts predict a shift toward greater stability in 2026, with moderated home prices and interest rates likely to ease. For buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia, that means new opportunities are on the horizon—but strategic planning is key.

A Market Moving Toward Balance

After the high-intensity market of recent years, the national outlook for 2026 suggests a welcome return to equilibrium. Interest rates are expected to gradually decline from the 2023-2024 highs, which could improve affordability for buyers. While home price growth may slow, values are projected to remain strong—particularly in high-demand regions like Northern Virginia.

That said, Northern Virginia is a unique market with its own momentum. Local job growth, infrastructure projects, and enduring demand for proximity to Washington, D.C. continue to keep the region competitive. Homes in desirable neighborhoods will likely remain in demand, but buyers may benefit from slightly more negotiating power than they had at the peak of the market frenzy.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re planning to buy in 2026, now is the time to:

Get financially prepared and explore mortgage options in advance
Watch for softening in prices and new inventory trends
Partner with a local expert who understands hyper-local conditions

With more balance returning to the market, buyers may find a better selection of homes and less urgency to make split-second decisions.

What This Means for Sellers

Sellers should focus on market prep and smart pricing. Even in a more stable market, properly staged, well-marketed homes in Northern Virginia can sell quickly and competitively.

Highlight your home’s value through strong visuals and accurate pricing
Understand what makes your neighborhood attractive in 2026
Work with a listing agent who can position your property strategically

Stay Ahead of the Curve in Northern Virginia

The 2026 market will reward preparedness, realism, and expert guidance. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, or planning to sell, aligning with a local professional who knows the Northern Virginia and DC Metro area can make all the difference.

Ready to talk strategy for your 2026 move? Let’s connect! I’m Samantha Bard, a full-time Realtor® with deep roots in Northern Virginia. I help buyers and sellers like you make smart, informed decisions—with local insight, data-backed strategy, and full-service support from consultation to closing.

Visit SamSellsNOVA.com to learn more or schedule your personalized consultation.

Featured Listing • October 18, 2025

Spacious & Updated Fairfax Condo Under $500K

by Samantha Bard

Spacious & Updated Fairfax Condo Under $500K

What makes this Fairfax condo a standout opportunity under $500K?

This beautifully updated, two-level townhome-style condo offers over 1,500 square feet of living space in the heart of Fairfax — with modern finishes, community amenities, and unbeatable convenience for under half a million.

A Bright & Stylish Living Space

Step into a warm, inviting main level where new flooring (2025) complements the natural light streaming in from large windows and a balcony overlooking a tranquil green courtyard. The open-concept layout connects the dining area with a spacious living room, complete with custom built-in shelving — perfect for everyday living or weekend entertaining.

The kitchen is equally impressive with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and rich wood cabinetry. Whether you’re prepping weeknight meals or hosting friends, you’ll love how functional and polished this space feels.

Thoughtfully Designed Upstairs Retreat

Upstairs, hardwood flooring flows throughout all three bedrooms and the hallway. The spacious primary suite features a large walk-in closet, dual-sink vanity, and a completely remodeled walk-in shower (2025). Two additional bedrooms share an updated hall bath, and the layout includes a linen closet and pull-down attic access for extra storage.

Move-In Ready with Smart Updates

Recent upgrades make this home even more move-in ready: a new water heater (2025), updated electrical panel and wiring, and Anderson windows throughout add peace of mind and value. With a low condo fee that covers exterior maintenance, water, and trash, you’ll enjoy low-maintenance living in a well-kept community.

Community Comfort & Prime Location

Located in the popular Fairfax Plaza Townhouses, this condo comes with access to a pool, tot lots, manicured courtyards, and a community center. You’ll also have one assigned parking space and two visitor passes, with ample guest parking nearby.

The location is a commuter’s dream — just minutes from I-66, Route 50, Route 29, and the Vienna/Fairfax Metro. Plus, you’re within walking distance of Trader Joe’s, Pan Am Shopping Center, Lifetime Fitness, and local favorites like Cinema Arts Theatre and the Fairfax Ice Arena.

If you’ve been searching for Fairfax real estate under 500K that delivers on space, style, and location, this home checks all the boxes.

Let’s Talk

Want to see this home in person or get more details? Contact me directly or explore the full listing online. I’d love to help you discover everything this exceptional Fairfax condo has to offer.