šŸ” Alex Ovechkin’s Home & Best 3 Places To Live in NoVA!

In this latest edition of Real NoVA, experience Northern Virginia's dynamic growth: from soaring real estate and bustling businesses to vibrant cultural scenes and economic expansion!

Happy Friday, Northern Virginia!

In this week’s update:

šŸ’ Alex Ovechkin’s Former Arlington Home Hits the Rental Market for $9K/Month: Alex Ovechkin’s first U.S. home in Arlington is now for rent. The five-bedroom, 5,000+ sq. ft. Ballston estate is packed with high-end amenities, sports history, and walkable charm—available July 1 for $9,000/month.

šŸ”‘ These 3 Northern Virginia Cities Just Ranked Among the Best Places to Live in the State: Northern Virginia shines in a new ā€œBest Places to Liveā€ ranking, with Burke, Reston, and Arlington taking the top three spots statewide for quality of life, job opportunities, and community appeal.

šŸ›Ÿ Why Everyone’s Floating the Shenandoah This Summer: Trade crowds for calm this summer with a tubing trip down the Shenandoah River. Just two hours from D.C., this scenic float is the ultimate way to beat the heat without the hassle.

šŸ’ Alex Ovechkin’s Rookie Home in Arlington Is Now for Rent — and It’s a Beauty

Driving the news: If you've ever wanted to live like a sports icon, here’s your shot. The first U.S. home of NHL legend Alex Ovechkin is now available for rent in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood—and it’s packed with prestige.

Details:

  • $9,000/month rental price

  • 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms

  • Over 5,000 square feet of living space

  • Private ½-acre lot just steps from the MedStar Capitals Iceplex

  • Includes a sauna, brand-new deck, and top-tier Viking & Monogram appliances

  • Walkable to Ballston Quarter, Virginia Hospital Center, and major Metro access

  • Available July 1

Why it matters: This home isn’t just luxurious—it’s part of local sports history. Ovechkin moved in after being drafted in 2006 and began his storied NHL career here. Since then, it's hosted pro athletes, doctors, and executives, becoming a quiet fixture of Arlington's prestige.

The big picture: With inventory tight and demand high in North Arlington, this rare rental offers a unique blend of high-end finishes, unbeatable walkability, and true Capitals lore.

The bottom line: This isn’t just a rental—it’s a piece of hockey history wrapped in Arlington elegance. Whether you’re a Caps fan or a luxury seeker, this one’s worth a look.

 šŸŒŠ Wild Waves and Lazy Days: Shenandoah River Tubing is Virginia’s Best-Kept Summer Secret

Driving the news: Skip the crowded pools and packed beaches—tubing the Shenandoah River has become Northern Virginia’s go-to summer escape, just two hours from D.C.

Details:

  • Launch from Front Royal or Luray

  • Tube rental and shuttle packages are available via Shenandoah River Outfitters or Front Royal Outdoors

  • Most popular float: 3-mile route (approx. 2–3 hours)

  • Ideal for families, friend groups, or weekend warriors

  • Rentals include tubes, life jackets, and shuttle transport

What to bring:

  • Waterproof phone pouch for on-river pics

  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

  • Floating cooler with drinks and snacks

  • Water shoes or sandals (avoid flip-flops)

Why it matters:
It’s a budget-friendly, nature-soaked way to cool off—and it's closer than you think. With scenic mountain views and a low-stress vibe, the Shenandoah float is an unbeatable day trip for NoVA locals.

The big picture:
As more Northern Virginians seek quick weekend getaways, the Shenandoah’s popularity continues to surge. Locals recommend booking early for prime weekend slots.

What’s next:
Plan your float with Shenandoah River Outfitters or Front Royal Outdoors. Both offer easy online booking and trip planning tools.

The bottom line:
Whether you’re looking for a new summer tradition or just need a break from the heat, the Shenandoah River delivers on relaxation, fun, and views for days.

šŸŽ„ BIG Changes Coming to Northern Virginia in 2025

From exciting new projects to transformative developments, Northern Virginia is about to change dramatically. This video dives deep into everything coming soon to NoVA that will reshape the region completely!

ā­ļø These 3 Northern Virginia Cities Are the Best Places to Live

Driving the news: U.S. News & World Report has released its list of the best places to live in Virginia, and three Northern Virginia communities landed in the top spots: Burke, Reston, and Arlington.

Details:

  • No. 1: Burke
    High household income ($180K median), strong job market, and suburban charm pushed Burke to the top. Downsides? Longer average commute (30 minutes).

  • No. 2: Reston
    A balanced mix of job opportunities and lifestyle perks, with a median income of $144K and a slightly shorter commute (23 minutes).

  • No. 3: Arlington
    Tied with Reston in overall score, but higher rent and a 24-minute commute landed it just below in ranking.

  • Other local standouts:

    • Leesburg (No. 6)

    • Centreville (No. 7)

    • Alexandria (No. 11)

    • Fredericksburg (No. 20)

    • Woodbridge (No. 22)

Why it matters: These rankings reflect more than just home prices—they highlight job access, lifestyle amenities, and quality of life. For families, professionals, and newcomers to Northern Virginia, these rankings help spotlight where life’s a little easier—and maybe a lot more rewarding.

The big picture: Northern Virginia continues to dominate statewide rankings thanks to its economic strength, safe neighborhoods, and proximity to D.C. Even with higher costs, the area’s perks consistently make it a top choice for those who can afford it.

What’s next: Expect demand in these top-ranked communities to stay strong, especially as more homebuyers prioritize lifestyle and location over square footage.

The bottom line: If you call Burke, Reston, or Arlington home, you’re not just lucky. You’re living in one of the best places Virginia has to offer.

šŸˆ Sponsor Our Summer Client Kickoff Event!

We’re hosting a huge client appreciation party on June 14th at The Roost at Farm Brewery — and NFL stars Austin Ekeler and Santana Moss will be joining us! We’re currently looking for amazing local businesses to sponsor the event and get some great exposure.


 Interested? DM us on Instagram @chriscolganteam or reply to this email, and we’ll send you the sponsorship tiers!

šŸ”¦ Sponsor Spotlight!

Smile with Confidence at Vienna Implant & Family Dentistry

Dr. Vikram Chauhan offers a patient-centric approach at a state-of-the-art dental facility, creating beautiful smiles that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. From dental implants, Teeth-in-a-Day, and full-mouth reconstruction to crowns and veneers, Dr. Chauhan is uniquely qualified to meet all your dental needs at his beautiful office in Vienna, VA.

Additionally, Dr. Chauhan is licensed by the Virginia Dental Board to provide IV conscious sedation, making him one of the select few restorative dentists in Virginia certified and licensed to administer IV sedation.

šŸ“ Follow @viennadentistry on IG and mention the Colgan Team for exceptional care!

Details Matter – Dominion Home Inspections

When it comes to your home, attention to detail makes all the difference. Dominion Home Inspections provides meticulous, comprehensive home inspections to ensure your biggest investment is protected. Locally trusted, certified, and committed to integrity. Their certified professionals inspect every home as carefully as they would their own, helping you secure peace of mind in your home purchase.

šŸ“ Follow @dominionhomeinspections on IG, and mention the Colgan Team for VIP care!

šŸŽ¶ Make Memories at Grain & Grog American Tavern

Locally owned, loved by the community, Grain & Grog offers something special for everyone. From tasty, family-friendly menu items to handcrafted drinks and unforgettable live music nights—it's your new favorite spot to unwind and celebrate life’s moments.

šŸ“Check them out on IG @grainandgrogtavern or visit http://grainandgrog.com/

🚚 Trusted Experts in Moving – Able Moving & Storage

Since 1987, Able Moving & Storage has provided Northern Virginia with exceptional moving and storage services. Family-owned, community-trusted, and dedicated to customer satisfaction, they handle every relocation—local or global—with expertise and care.

šŸ“ Check them out on IG at @ablemoving, or online at ablemoving.com. Be sure to mention the Colgan Team!

šŸ”Ø ConstruNOVA: Building Dreams, Creating Spaces

Transform your vision into reality with ConstruNOVA! As Northern Virginia’s trusted home improvement experts, ConstruNOVA specializes in turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary living areas.

From elegant kitchen remodels to stylish bathroom upgrades and services ranging from custom carpentry and painting to electrical updates and plumbing installations. Elevate your home with ConstruNOVA, where exceptional craftsmanship meets your unique style.

šŸ“ Follow @construnova.inc on IG, and let them know the Colgan Team sent you!

šŸ’­ Things To Do in the NOVA/DC Area

šŸŖ• The Avett Brothers

Wolf Trap favorites The Avett Brothers return with their ā€œaccessible mix of bluegrass, rock, and folkā€ (NPR)! Enjoy two nights of the ā€œAmericana stalwartsā€ (Rolling Stone) folk-tinged songs filled with unbridled energy and honest, heartfelt lyrics. See the roots rock band behind ā€œA Beautiful Lifeā€ and the Winter in the Blood soundtrack as Heartless Bastards kick off the evening.
šŸ“Location: Filene Center - 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA
šŸ—“ļø Date & Time: May 30-31 | 6 pm
šŸŽŸļø Tickets: $61
šŸ”— More Info

🌼 Fil-Am Spring Fest 2025

Finish out AAPI Heritage Month by participating in this celebration of Filipino American culture. At Fair Oaks Mall, immerse yourself in cultural performances and live entertainment, enjoy local food trucks and family-friendly activities, and shop over 60 small businesses and vendors.
šŸ“Location: Fair Oaks Mall: 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax
šŸ—“ļø Date & Time: May 31 | 9am to 4pm
šŸŽŸļø Tickets: Free
šŸ”— More Info

šŸ· Bull Run Wine Festival

Level up your day at the winery with this spring festival. Bull Run Winery will host two days of entertainment, with live music and more than a dozen area wineries and breweries in attendance. Soak it all up with a bite from the visiting food trucks.
šŸ“ Location: The Winery at Bull Run: 15950 Route 29, Centreville
šŸ—“ļø Date & Time: May 31 - June 1 | 12pm to 5pm
šŸŽŸļø Tickets: $45
šŸ”— More Info

šŸ“Š Our Current Local Market Numbers

The Northern Virginia real estate market continues to thrive across Arlington, Alexandria, Reston, Gainesville, 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.

šŸ—žļø In Other News…

Chris Colgan - EXP Realty Powered by Place

Email me anytime: [email protected]
Search homes for sale in Northern Virginia: http://www.colganrealestate.com/
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: @ChrisColgan

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