Alexandria Real Estate: WATERFRONT CHANGES DRIVING RISING HOME VALUES
By Cheryl Spangler
Alexandria is not the only waterfront undergoing changes, the southwest waterfront in Washington DC is the *HOT SPOT* for millennials, professionals and investors. Just like DC, Alexandria is transforming its waterfront and Robinson Landing is touted to be the focal point for the Old Town Waterfront. Here’s what is coming, how it will affect your home value and the positive changes it will bring. The current population for the primary Alexandria area is 101,000+ and is expected to grow 9% between now and 2020. 72% of those living in this area have a Bachelors degree, the average household income is $145,000 and the median home value is $662,000+. With the addition of the National Harbor MGM Casino, and the growth of the DC Waterfront, Alexandria home prices are sure to maintain values and increase as more jobs are created, businesses move in and it becomes the center for homeowners to live, work and play. Below are some exciting additions to the already existing Alexandria Waterfront.
Robinson Landing – 60-70 High-End Residential Condos surrounded by new and existing restaurants, retail and office space directly on the water with breathtaking views of the Potomac, windows from floor to ceiling, garage parking, walking corridors, benches, outdoor seating and community gathering spaces, extended boardwalk space and a park-like setting. Built by EYA, an established and well known builder who’s tag line is “Life within walking distance”. Located right off S. Union St & Duke at the water’s edge, price yet to be determined but may be between $900k-$4MIL per condo.
The Strand – A term defining the area of new retail growth to be built at the water and surrounding Robinson Landing, over 84,000 SF of shops and retail, including a wine bar, coffee shops, cafes, bakery and more. New business brings positive things to a community.
A Chef-Driven restaurant – to be located on the waterfront at Duke & S. Union St with more outdoor seating than indoor with an unbelievable view of the Potomac enhancing the visibility of Old Town to travelers. A “chef-driven” restaurant is one where the head chef designs all the items on the menu based on his or her own personal style using specifically sourced ingredients. A “chef-driven” menu is a menu featuring these types of dishes. The ingredients could be things chosen from the local farmer’s market, specifically imported from a foreign country that you can’t get everywhere, or simply a chef’s favorite of the day.
New office space – located at 204 South Union St for businesses to move into, expand and serve the new and existing community of homeowners that will be visiting, eating, enjoying and shopping in Old Town.
Hotel Indigo – Boutique hotel consisting of around 120-140 rooms to be located at the end of Duke St where it meets the water. Allowing tourists a totally personalized experience when visiting Old Town and an amazing view of the water and access to National Harbor via the ferry.
The Beachcomber – a new family restaurant featuring American and/or Italian foods, a laid back environment that will offer indoor seating and a view of the shops and retail.