Located just six miles from the nation's capital on the west bank of the Potomac River, Alexandria has developed into a unique city with a historic downtown area preserved by strict reconstruction codes. Today, the city thrives as a premier location for many major corporate and organizational headquarters, including the Public Broadcasting Service and AT&T.
If you want to live in the Washington, D.C., area, you will find the perfect home in nearby Alexandria. Just seven miles from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is a community catering to the needs of those who work in the city. Alexandria real estate listings are numerous, though somewhat steeply priced.
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| Population 128,283 | Median Age 34.4 yrs | Household Size: 2.04 |
| Avg Commute: 29.7 min | Avg Income $56,054 | Avg Home Value: $252,800 |
| July High: 88.5°F | January Low: 26.5°F | |
Alexandria Real Estate Listings
If you are planning to live in Alexandria, you should expect to live in a condominium or a townhouse. Although the city includes several beautiful subdivisions with single-family homes, the majority of Alexandria real estate listings are townhouses and condos. In Alexandria, however, townhouses and condos have a whole new meaning; they are often at the height of luxury. In fact, many senators use them as a secondary home while in Washington, D.C. Perhaps Alexandria’s reputation as an elite community makes its home prices more expensive; although the city’s average home value is around $265,000, very few of Alexandria’s real estate listings have this price.
Considerations for Choosing an Alexandria Home:
When choosing a home in Alexandria, you should first consider whether you would rather live in a town-home, a condominium or a single family home. Even if you would normally choose a single-family home, Alexandria townhouses and condominiums should not be dismissed, because few single-family homes are available in the city. Because the selection of single-family homes is limited, they are often expensive; typical homes are well above $600,000. While townhouses and condos are also expensive, with these homes you get more for your money. Townhouses, in particular, are an excellent option for those who prefer single-family homes: many Alexandria townhouses are very similar to single-family homes, with small yards. Both townhouses and condos in Alexandria often belong to neighborhoods with gyms, pools and even shuttles that commute to Washington, D.C.
Upper-end Homes vs. Lower-end Homes:
Alexandria real estate listings span a wide range of prices, from the $200,000 range to over $5 million. Homes in the lowest price range are usually small condominiums with one bedroom and bathroom. Larger, two-bedroom condominiums are typically not available for less than $330,000. Single-family homes tend to begin in the $600,000 range. Most larger single-family homes cost nearly $1 million. A large show-home with all of the luxuries may cost as much as over $3 million. The price of some Alexandria homes increases because of its historic value. Some Alexandria homes were built in the 18th century, and many were homes of important political figures. Alexandria’s historic homes boast unique old-world features, such as multiple fireplaces. Some of Alexandria’s oldest homes are townhouses; the tradition of city townhouses dates back hundreds of years.
When you check the Alexandria real estate listings, you should expect to see high prices. But in exchange for high prices, you can live in one of the most sought-after residential locations of the United States.
By Brooks Becker
A REALTOR® is a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®