In this week’s update:

🏆 Virginia just climbed to the top—again. A new national ranking confirms what many families moving to Northern Virginia have long suspected. But it's not just about test scores...

🚗 Think your city has the worst traffic? One U.S. capital just took the crown — and it's not L.A. anymore. Find out which city now leads the nation in gridlock and why that might not be such a bad thing.

💎 Northern Virginia Just Made a National List — Again. Three local suburbs quietly climbed into the ranks of America’s wealthiest communities. The data might surprise you, but the real story is what it means for buyers, sellers, and anyone eyeing the DMV market.

Driving the news: Virginia just landed the #4 spot in WalletHub’s 2025 ranking of the best school systems in the U.S., with strong scores in quality (6th) and safety (5th).

That’s a win for current and future Northern Virginia residents.

Details: WalletHub’s study went beyond test scores, using 32 metrics like class size, funding, safety, and teacher credentials.

Virginia’s schools stood out for:

• High graduation rates

• Strong teacher-to-student ratios

• Low incident rates and solid safety policies

• Substantial funding for programs and services

Why it matters: Families relocating to Northern Virginia — especially those in tech, government contracting, or the military — can feel confident they’re investing in their children’s futures. Quality schools not only support academic success but also drive property values higher and protect long-term home equity.

Between the lines: These high rankings reflect what many locals already know: Virginia schools offer more than strong academics. From career-readiness programs and AP tracks to cultural and tech enrichment, the system builds well-rounded students.

What’s next: With population growth continuing and demand for quality education rising, expect further investment in facilities, teacher support, and student programs—especially in booming areas like Ashburn and the Dulles tech corridor.

READ MORE→

Driving the news: Los Angeles no longer holds the title for worst traffic in the U.S.

Washington, D.C. now leads, with the nation's highest average commute time, according to new rankings by ConsumerAffairs.

Details:

• D.C. drivers spend 33.4 minutes commuting on average, longer than in any other major city.

• The city’s weekday congestion spans 6 hours and 35 minutes, second only to LA’s nearly 8 hours of traffic per day.

• LA still has more total traffic hours but fell to second in commute length.

Why it matters: Washington’s top ranking underscores the region’s ongoing return-to-office transition, driven by federal mandates.

The increase in traffic reflects a reviving local economy and a shift away from pandemic-era remote work, boosting demand for restaurants, transit, and retail services.

Between the lines: Traffic is a byproduct of growth. Experts note that busy roads often signal a thriving job market and a city that’s attracting — and retaining — residents.

The bottom line: D.C. may now lead in gridlock, but that congestion is also a signal: the city’s core is bustling again.

READ MORE→

If you're searching for the best places to live in Northern Virginia in 2025, this video is your ultimate guide. We break down the hottest neighborhoods in Northern Virginia, identifying the fastest-growing communities for every lifestyle and budget.

💬 Let’s Connect: Buying, Selling, or Growing Your Brand in Northern Virginia?

Whether you’re looking to move to Fairfax, Prince William, Winchester, Alexandria, Arlington, or Reston — or want help growing your business with smart, local content — I’ve got you covered.

📍 Explore homes for sale across Northern Virginia
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💼 Visit ColganTeam.com to learn more or collaborate on your next project

Driving the news: A new report from GOBankingRates ranks McLean, Wolf Trap, and Vienna among the 50 wealthiest suburbs in America—three standout spots right here in Northern Virginia.

Details: McLean ranked #12 with a mean household income of $365,000, followed by Wolf Trap at #20 ($316,810), and Vienna at #45 ($273,768).

• McLean offers estate-level homes, elite schools, and quick access to D.C., making it a magnet for high-level executives and policy professionals.

• Wolf Trap draws buyers with its blend of cultural depth and upscale real estate, including homes with guest quarters and resort-style features.

• Vienna combines small-town friendliness with high earning power, thanks to top-rated schools, walkability, and a strong sense of community.

• Potomac (MD) and Bethesda (MD) also made the top 50, showing that affluence is concentrated across the entire DMV region.

Why it matters: These rankings spotlight the economic strength and desirability of Northern Virginia's suburbs, reinforcing the area's appeal for families, professionals, and investors alike.

For local buyers and sellers, this means stronger property values and continued interest in the region—fueling job growth, school funding, and community development.

The big picture: Northern Virginia isn’t just wealthy on paper—it’s built on consistent, high-income employment from sectors like government contracting, defense, and tech.

In fact, over 70% of the world’s internet traffic runs through this area, supporting a steady stream of high-earning residents.

What’s next: Expect continued upward pressure on home prices, especially as remote-friendly workers and D.C. professionals continue to relocate.

For buyers, acting quickly is key. For sellers, it’s prime time to maximize returns.

READ MORE→

🔹 Friday - Totally Trucks

Step right up and bring the kids for a look at the big trucks the Reston Association uses to keep the community beautiful. Wander around and see heavy machinery—plus, if available, police and fire trucks may be on display. Each child will receive a complimentary “Totally Trucks” construction helmet; some vehicles will be horn‑free for a sensory‑friendly experience.
📍 Location: Reston Association’s Central Services Facility
📅 Date & Time: August 1, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌐 Website: https://www.reston.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=1064

🔹 Saturday - Wine and Fondue Festival

Wine and cheese lovers, come out to Shipgarten and enjoy the Wine and Fondue Festival. Sample a wide variety of drinks and food while live music plays in the background. Take part in festival competitions for prizes or grab fun photos in the festival photo booth.
📍 Location: Shipgarten, 7581 Colshire Drive, Tysons (McLean)
📅 Date & Time: August 2, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌐 Website: https://www.fxva.com/event/wine-and-fondue-festival/44199

🔹 Sunday - Fairfax County 4‑H Fair and Carnival

For four days of family fun at Frying Pan Farm Park: enjoy carnival rides and games, tractor demonstrations, 4‑H exhibits, livestock, live entertainment, and fair food. There’s even a “Big Truck Night” in the farmyard on Friday.
📍 Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon
📅 Date & Time: July 31 – August 3, 2025; Carnival hours vary (typically 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, with evening sessions)
🎟️ Tickets: Unlimited ride wristbands starting at $21.25 per day (advance purchase); day‑of price up to $25; parking fee $10 on Saturday/Sunday
🌐 Website: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/4h-fair

MORE THINGS TO DO→

The Northern Virginia real estate market continues to thrive across Arlington, Alexandria, Reston, Gainesville, Winchester, and Fairfax Counties. Whether buying or selling, having an experienced guide by your side is crucial in today's dynamic market.

Selling your home? I'll create a targeted marketing strategy and help you set the right price to attract serious buyers and maximize your return.

Looking to buy? With current interest rates, this could be your ideal time to purchase. Let me help you find and secure the perfect home.

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