The November Edit

Check out this beauty (yes, my wife Sara is a stunner, but referring to our new patio!). After two months of mud, dust, two power outages, a midnight Pepco squad, and a whole lotta patience, we completed our patio project. Our project was picked up by Axios, where we did an interview about how a seller can increase their home value by way of home projects. My biggest takeaway from our patio project? Dirt isn't cheap. In fact, it was surprisingly pricier than I expected and difficult to find so I will further refrain from ever using the metaphor "cheap as dirt." 

I hosted my second annual Pre-Halloween neighborhood mixer last week. My neighbors were treated to Astro Doughnuts and coffee while catching up and even sparking new friendships. If you haven't tried Astro, there's a reason why Washingtonian magazine continues to award its crème brulée among the area's best doughnut.

Now that we've packed away candy corn (who even likes this ghastly candy?), it's time to shift into holiday mode. Along with pumpkin everything, November kicks off the holiday season. There's the anticipation of Thanksgiving, planning holiday parties and travel, and taking inventory of what you still need to accomplish before the end of the year. So sit back, enjoy the extra hour of sleep from daylight saving, and buckle up for the holiday season ahead.

Thanks again for reading along.

With gratitude,
Arash

Have a small business we can help support? Message me here!

Metro DC Area Housing Market Update

The housing market in the DC area continues to defy the odds as multiple offers and price escalations haven't abated in some of the region's most popular neighborhoods. This may be largely attributable to low inventory which continues to prop up prices. (Seller, if you're reading this and wondering if it's a good time to sell, the answer is yes). 

If you're a buyer, you're probably waiting for mortgage rates to drop to make your purchase more affordable. On Friday, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to below 7.4%--its lowest level in two months. Some lenders are now offering borrowers the ability to refinance later for free. Maybe it's time to make that move? When rates eventually drop, do expect to compete with a significant number of buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines.

Just remember, a home is a long term investment, so think about the equity you will build along with the wonderful new memories you will create in your own home. The new friendships and experiences may be priceless. ✨

Client Testimonial

Jeff is my fifth neighbor whom I have helped with a real estate transaction. I sold his beautiful house in two days and set a record for a sale in the neighborhood. This month, I'm listing another neighbor's home off-market on Compass Private Exclusive 🤫. 

Where I'm Eating
El Presidente 

Restauranteur Stephen Starr, who opened Le Diplomate on 14th St and is credited with operating some of the hottest restaurants today, just opened El Presidente in Union Market. If you can get past the waitlist for reservations, enjoy this Mexico City-inspired menu. The margaritas, chips and spicy guacamole and fish tacos are a must.

What I'm Watching
Beckham

Having spent time in the UK in the 2000s, I was aware of the country's love affair with "Posh and Becks". With soccer (er, football) more popular than ever this side of the pond, it's only fitting that American sport and celebrity watchers are curious about the Beckhams and their backstory. The documentary gets them to speak candidly on their lives and replays some of the most riveting football matches in history. 

Book I'm Recommending
Remarkably Bright Creatures

I received this book as a gift and was unsure about diving into a book narrated by a Giant Pacific Octopus. It forms a friendship with a widow still coping with the loss of her 18 year-old son, who mysteriously vanished on a boat over thirty years ago. After reading just a few pages, I couldn't put down this book about friendship, loneliness, and serendipity. 

Small Business I'm Supporting
The Organic Butcher

This new Bethesda shop, modeled after old-fashioned English butcher shops, boasts local and certified organic meat and poultry and sustainably sourced seafood. What I love is their prepared foods section with meals whipped up by some of the area's best chefs. Check out their offerings and support this local business!

It's Me, Hi 🙋🏻‍♂️ Stop by my Instagram @arash777

recent sales where i have helped created new home stories 📜🏡

Wheaton Hills

2709 Finley Street

4 BD   2 BA   1607 SF   $499,000

Chevy Chase

4621 Chestnut Street

6 BD   6 BA   5005 SF   $2,395,000

Favorite Quote

"Every morning we get a chance to be different. A chance to change. A chance to be better."

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.