Everyone know the cardinal rule of real estate: “Location, location, location!” However, depending on who you ask, the ideal location can mean many things. What all the experts seem to agree on is that a cul-de-sac (French for “bottom of the bag”) location offers countless benefits, including increased home value. If househunting is in your future (or you plan to list your cul-de-sac home soon), read below for the many benefits of cul-de-sac living and where you can find some great cul de sacs in the City.
Less Traffic: The only cars traveling on your street are those that have it as a destination – in other words, no through traffic. Very likely, these drivers will be slowing down as they reach their destinations. Fewer cars driving slowly, in turn, means that cul de sacs are generally very safe for children. They encourage more outside play, walking, and biking. Additionally, fewer cars equates to less noise and increased privacy. A great example of this can be found on Summers Court in Alexandria’s Rosemont neighborhood, where neighborhood kids often play street hockey in summer months.
That Neighborhood Feel: It’s not just the kids who get to make friends.
The proximity and orientation of homes in cul-de-sacs can turn neighbors into fast friends.
These neighbors are more likely to keep an eye out for each other and socialize together. Our listing at 3717 Taft Avenue in Cooper’s Grove celebrates holidays such as Halloween with a Trick or Treat Event, Memorial Day with a picnic, and Superbowl with a party along with other informal potluck gatherings. In the summer months, you will find the cul-de-sac full of kids and adults waiting for the local ice-cream truck to stop.
Lower Crime Rates: Due to the limited traffic and the connectedness of neighbors, burglary and vandalism are reported to be lower in the cul-de-sacs. These neighbors notice when something is amiss and as a result, troublemakers are more inclined to skip over these streets. Also, criminals generally avoid areas that lack easy access, making cul-de-sacs unattractive targets from a criminal’s point of view.
Increased Home Values: The many benefits of cul-de-sac design result in homes having greater curb appeal and in turn, increased market value.
One study shows that buyers are willing to pay up to 20% more for a home in a cul-de-sac!
Who knew? Just take a look at Griffith Place in Seminary Ridge, where some of highest average home values in Alexandria can be found. Time and again, we see house hunters willing to pay a bit more for the mature trees, wide streets and sidewalks in this neighborhood (where Sue and Marty live). On Griffith Place and beyond, residents greet each other as they walk their dogs, ride their bikes, and stroll babies. Neighbors gather for annual events including a summer picnic, a Halloween parade and party, a garage sale, a holiday party, as well as for wine and books clubs. What’s not to love? The Goodhart Group has a listing coming up soon on Griffith Place – contact us today to learn more.
If you’re looking for a high end cul-de-sac with gracious homes and loads of curb appeal, look no further than Kingston Place, Bishop Lane and Virginia Avenue. They are three of Alexandria’s most exclusive streets (fyi: you’ll pass our stunning listing at 1331 Kingston Avenue on the way to Kingston Place).
If you would like to learn more about any of these listings or would like more information on how the market is performing your neighborhood, contact us. We’d love to buy you coffee (or tea) and discuss how we can help you reach your real estate goals.
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