Alexandria
About Alexandria, Virginia
Welcome to Alexandria, Virginia, a city known for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Potomac River, Alexandria is renowned for its charming Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and vibrant waterfront. This city offers a unique blend of colonial history and contemporary living, with a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it a preferred location for professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.
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Average Home Prices in Alexandria
The average home price in Alexandria, VA, stands at approximately $627,287, reflecting the city's desirable real estate market. Alexandria's homes range from historic properties in Old Town to modern waterfront condos, offering diverse living options for residents. The city's real estate market is characterized by its stable growth, making it an attractive investment for homebuyers and real estate investors alike.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in Virginia
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Virginia Veterans Homes
Virginia offers veterans homes in Richmond and Roanoke, with new facilities opening in Puller and Virginia Beach. These homes provide care for honorably discharged Virginia resident veterans, with costs based on the individual's ability to pay.
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Virginia Veteran Financial Benefits
Active duty personnel can enjoy up to $15,000 of tax-exempt military basic pay, with additional benefits for retired veterans, including increasing deductions on retirement income. Disabled veterans benefit from a real estate tax exemption on their homes.
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Virginia Veterans Employment Benefits
Virginia provides a 5% test score addition for veterans seeking state employment, with 10% for disabled veterans. Programs like Troops to Trucks facilitate CDL licensing for qualified military personnel.
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Education Benefits
The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program offers tuition and fee assistance at state-supported institutions for eligible family members of veterans affected by military service.
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Recreation Benefits
Disabled veterans can access free or discounted hunting and fishing licenses, with state park admission benefits extending to those with 100% VA disability.
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Virginia Veterans Cemeteries
Veterans are entitled to no-cost burial in one of Virginia's three veterans cemeteries, with a nominal fee for eligible family members.
Alexandria Neighborhoods and Surrounding Areas
Alexandria's neighborhoods offer a tapestry of living experiences, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Here's a closer look at 20 distinctive neighborhoods in Alexandria:
- Old Town: Alexandria's historic heart, known for its well-preserved architecture, waterfront views, and a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Del Ray: With a small-town vibe, Del Ray is renowned for its artsy scene, eclectic shops, and community events, fostering a strong neighborhood spirit.
- West End: A diverse area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, West End offers modern conveniences alongside green spaces like parks and trails.
- Potomac Yard: Once an industrial area, now a thriving residential and retail hub, Potomac Yard is fast becoming a sought-after destination for its proximity to both Alexandria and Washington, D.C.
- Rosemont: Rosemont exudes a quaint, suburban feel with tree-lined streets and classic homes, positioned conveniently near Old Town and metro stations.
- The Berg: A historic neighborhood that maintains a strong sense of community, The Berg is nestled close to the Potomac River, offering scenic views and tranquil living.
- Parker-Gray: Once the heart of Alexandria's African American community, Parker-Gray is now a vibrant neighborhood blending historical sites with contemporary living.
- Arlandria: Known for its cultural diversity, Arlandria, or "Chirilagua," offers a variety of international cuisines, shops, and community festivals.
- North Ridge: Featuring rolling hills and spacious homes, North Ridge is a family-friendly neighborhood with parks, schools, and a tight-knit community feel.
- Eisenhower Valley: A dynamic mix of residential and business sectors, Eisenhower Valley is home to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and offers modern living options.
- Landmark: An evolving neighborhood with a blend of residential and retail developments, Landmark is known for its convenient shopping centers and transportation access.
- Mount Vernon: A neighborhood steeped in history, Mount Vernon is home to the famed estate of George Washington, surrounded by lush greenery and classic Virginia estates.
- Seminary Hill: A serene, primarily residential area, Seminary Hill boasts beautiful homes, well-maintained gardens, and an abundance of mature trees.
- Cameron Station: A modern, planned community with colonial-style homes, Cameron Station offers a cohesive community with amenities like parks, a fitness center, and retail shops.
- Kingstowne: A relatively new development, Kingstowne combines residential living with a town center, providing residents with a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
- Franconia: Known for its convenient access to the Franconia-Springfield metro station, Franconia offers a mix of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities.
- Beverley Hills: With its charming 20th-century homes and lush landscaping, Beverley Hills is a picturesque neighborhood ideal for families and professionals alike.
- Jefferson Park: Jefferson Park is favored for its friendly atmosphere, traditional homes, and proximity to both nature and Alexandria's urban offerings.
- Wilkes Street: A neighborhood with a rich historical backdrop, Wilkes Street is renowned for its walkable streets, period homes, and close-knit community environment.
- Quaker Hill: Reflecting Alexandria's colonial past, Quaker Hill is a peaceful residential area with a distinctive historic charm, modern conveniences, and an active community association.
Military in Virginia
Alexandria's strategic location near Washington, D.C., places it close to several significant military installations, underscoring its importance to the nation's defense strategy:
- Pentagon: Just a short drive from Alexandria, the Pentagon is a symbol of the U.S. military's might and a central hub for defense planning and operations.
- Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall: This joint base provides support and services to military members in the National Capital Region, fostering operational readiness and community integration.
- Fort Belvoir: Located to the south of Alexandria, Fort Belvoir serves as a critical center for military logistics and administrative support.
Local Universities in Alexandria
Alexandria and its vicinity are home to several esteemed higher education institutions, contributing to the city's educational richness and diversity:
- George Washington University - Alexandria Education Center: Offers a variety of graduate programs and professional development courses tailored to working professionals.
- Northern Virginia Community College - Alexandria Campus: Provides a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs, catering to students with diverse educational goals.
VA Loan Benefits in Alexandria
For veterans in Alexandria, VA Loans provide several advantages for homebuying, including:
- No Down Payment: VA Loans allow eligible veterans to purchase a home without the need for a down payment, enhancing accessibility to homeownership.
- Competitive Interest Rates: VA Loans typically offer more favorable interest rates than conventional loans, reducing monthly payments for veterans.
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike many conventional loans, VA Loans do not require PMI, lowering monthly housing costs for veterans.
MHS Lending is dedicated to assisting Alexandria's veterans in navigating the VA Loan process, ensuring they can maximize their homebuying benefits.
