The January 2024 Edit

Hello 2024!

Welcome to 2024! I've always loved the "4s". I was born in '74, got MTV in '84, was living it up in college in '94, bought my first condo in '04, and got engaged to my wife in '14. The "4s" have historically been a stand out year for me and I'm optimistic that 2024 will be a fantastic year.

The beginning of the year is always a great time to reflect and reset. I've never been a fan of New Year's resolutions, rather, I firmly believe that setting goals to change habits is key to making lasting change. I typically will start the year by picking a theme that will help drive my behavior. It's usually a word that's emblematic of how I want to set the tone for each day Some past choices has been "present", "agility", "resilience", and tequila. (kidding on the last world choice).

In real estate news, I just closed on my fifth transaction in my neighborhood in Potomac which was a great way to kick off the new year. I begin the year filled with gratitude that I can be of service to others in a job that I love. I also appreciate your taking the time to follow along my journey and hope this month's newsletter continues to informs and entertain you. 

I will also be announcing an exciting new endeavor next month, so stay tuned!

Thanks again for reading along and Happy New Year!

-Arash

Do you know a small business we can support? Reach out to Me!

Predictions on the 2024 DC Area Housing Market

What was most surprising about 2023 was the resilience of the DC area housing market. In spite of interest rates hovering north of 8.0%, buyers continued to snap up homes in popular neighborhoods. In fact, multiple offers where buyers bid above the list price weren't an anomaly, much to the delight of sellers who enjoyed listing their homes in a market with limited inventory.

Many economists are predicting rates to move downward in the months ahead. The current average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage slid to 6.91% this month, with rates expected to decline further in the second half of the year. Housing demand is expected to be robust as the nation's capital continues to attract new residents and businesses in DC and the surrounding suburbs.

This year, market conditions will be favorable for sellers as limited housing supply will keep prices high. However, housing experts do expect increased inventory with more homeowners seeing it as a good time to sell. Rate reductions will prompt more buyers off the sidelines to find their dream home. In short, buyers and sellers will find a more favorable and busy housing market in 2024.

Client Testimonial

I helped Shannon and Gary sell their home in Silver Spring and also represented them on the purchase of their next home in Rockville. I'm most excited by the new memories they will create with their four children in their new home.

What I'm Eating
Sakara

I first discovered Sakara at a D.C. launch event ten years ago. Their plant-based, ready-to-eat meals are designed by chefs and delivered directly to your door. The concept has exploded in popularity, especially among those who eschew meat for vegetarian eating. After imbibing on food and drink during the holidays, I always reset with Sakara's meal service. Some of their delicious samplings this week include a Pumpkin Breakfast Parfait, a Red Beet Burger, and an Unclassic Caesar Salad. 

What I'm Binging
Fool Me Once

I credit my wife for pulling me into this gripping show that had us staying up way past our bedtime. It follows Maya Stern, an ex-military special ops agent, now living in a quaint English village. Maya latest battle is coming to terms with the murder of her husband Joe, and her sister just months earlier. Coincidence or connection? The thrilling ride begins in the first episode with plot twists that will keep you glued through to the final episode. 

Book I'm Recommending
Matthew Perry's Memoir

For decades, Rachel, Ross, Joey, Phoebe, Monica and Chandler have been reliable constants in our lives. So news of Matthew Perry's tragic death was felt deeply by generations of "Friends" fans. 

Perry's memoir sheds insight on his troubled life and trajectory of addiction. He writes with great candor about having the best job in the world, but one he couldn't enjoy sober. With humor and honesty, he takes readers behind the scenes, sharing insights into fame, friendships, and the challenges he's faced throughout his tumultuous life....a sad farewell to our beloved Chandler Bing.

Interview I'm Sharing
Anderson Cooper and Ashley Judd

Anderson Cooper's incredible interview with actress Ashley Judd on the suicide of her mother, singer Naomi Judd, just stopped me in my tracks. 

Cooper started a podcast, dubbed "All There Is", when he was packing up the apartment of his late mother, Gloria Vanderbilt. An adept and empathetic interviewer, his podcast attempts to uncover the complexities of grief and loss. 

Small Business I'm Supporting
Ama Ami/Two Nine

Sushi Taro veterans Amy Phan and Zach Ramos bring Tokyo's finest fish to Georgetown. The chefs have their fish flown directly from Japan, and feature the freshest catches at their cozy sushi counter in Georgetown's Grace Street.

Their sublime chirashi bowls and sushi take me back to my visits to Tokyo's fish market. Musts include the daily soup and their special desserts.

Hi, It's Me! Stop by my Instagram @arash777

RECENT SALES WHERE I HAVE HELPED TO 
CREATE NEW HOME STORIES 📜🏡

Potomac

8613 Timber Hill Lane

5 BD   4 BA   3069 SF   $1,220,000

Logan Circle

1125 12th Street Northwest, Unit 23

1 BD   1 BA   428 SF   $265,000

Favorite Quote

"Happiness resides not in possessions, and not in gold, happiness dwells in the soul"

Arash Shirazi

Realtor®
M: 202 365 1899
O: 301 298 1001
arash.shirazi@compass.com

Office: 202-386-6330

Compass Real Estate is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.