It is one of the nation’s enduring visitor destinations as well as a favorite place to live, work and play. Located right on the western banks of the Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria is the historic seat of the City of Alexandria. With its scintillating blend of antique homes, upscale shopping boutiques and top-rated restaurants, it’s certainly a delightful place to spend the day, and/or evening. But those who come to pay a visit, often wish they could stay for good.
Alexandria was founded in 1749, raided by the British during the War of 1812 and saw significant action during the Civil War. Today, there is an ongoing and highly interesting dynamic when it comes to local homes, townhouses and condos for sale. The city and various preservation groups strive to protect historic sites and buildings, while developers look for ways to create new housing for an expanding population. For October’s spotlight, we’ll single out a few of the most enduring homes for sale, while also noting more recent construction.
The home at 1020 Prince Street is a fine example of early freestanding architecture in a neighborhood where it can be a rarity. Built in 1810, the lovely brick home with 3.5 levels was lovingly restored and renovated in 2012, adding new features like a gourmet kitchen and stunningly contemporary baths, while preserving original hardwood floors, moldings, built-ins and millwork. There are four bedrooms, 3.5 baths, seven fireplaces, a basement and nearly 4,000 square feet of living space. The front presents beautifully with the entry to one side and large front windows. The top level has vaulted ceilings and dormers, and there is also large private side garden, a covered veranda, a patio and a two-car garage accessible via the alley. Priced at $2,700,000, this is a true find.
A semi-detached corner townhouse at 100 Queen Street was built in 1998 and recently renovated. It’s hard to distinguish this from a traditional Alexandria antique with its white brick exterior and beautiful gambrel roof. But the four-story home offers all the modern conveniences and amenities, with three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, lavish owner’s suite with a huge sitting room and incredible bath, a private courtyard and spiral stairs leading up to an amazing private roof deck with views of the Potomac River (which is just a block away). Unfortunately, it just went under contract at $1,999,000. But, we couldn’t resist showing it to you.
Representing something new and modern is Unit #605 at The Oronoco. This swanky penthouse has two bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a bonus den and a 2,429 square foot layout. It was originally priced at $2,399,000 but was recently relisted at $2,099,000. Given the hefty markdown, we really thought you should see it—especially given that apartments at this address rarely become available. The Oronoco used to be a Sheet Metal Workers Union Pension building before it was gutted and converted into 60 high-end flats. The U-shaped complex is perched just steps from the Potomac River and Oronoco Bay Park. This unit offers gleaming hardwood floors throughout, giant windows, an open modern kitchen with recessed appliances, and a private terrace with views of the river. Residents enjoy tons of amenities, including a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, gym, 24/7 concierge and dog-washing station.
With a prime Old Town location just a quick stroll from the water, 225 Lee Street is a lovely townhouse with three finished levels in desirable Queen’s Row. Listed at $1,395,000, the home has a classic brick exterior with front bay and gambrel roof, while the interior is showcased with three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, gleaming hardwood floors and 2,472 square feet of living space. The Chef’s kitchen boasts KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, and there’s numerous architectural details throughout. Giant French doors lead out to a wonderful patio. There’s a rooftop terrace with amazing city and river views as well. Two fireplaces, magazine worthy designer baths and two deeded parking spaces are among the many perks for this dreamy home.
There’s no shortage of things to do and see in Old Town. You can take the free King Street trolley to visit more than 180 shops, restaurants and other attractions along the Alexandria’s famous main street. Or just hoof it through fascinating cobblestone streets and old historic alleyways. The walking tours are quite excellent, as are the Potomac riverboats and water taxis. But it’s also a wonderful place to live permanently, with a Trader Joe’s, a Whole Foods, movie theaters, farmers markets, dog parks, multiple Metro stations and plenty of quiet greenspaces where you can get away from the crowds. It’s also just six miles from Washington, DC.
To see a larger curated collection of compelling home listings in Old Town Alexandria for the month of October, simply click here. And, to learn more about homes, condos and townhouses for sale in Old Town Alexandria, call Andre Perez at 202-398-3600.
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