Happy Saturday, Northern Virginia!

In this week’s update:

🏫 Teacher Retention on the Rise: Fairfax County Public Schools is seeing its highest teacher retention rate in four years, with special education turnover steadily declining. International ambassador programs are helping fill roles, highlighting promising trends in staff retention.

🏢 New Leesburg Government Office Plans: Designs for a 125,000-square-foot county office building near Leesburg are advancing. With a focus on sustainability and lasting quality, the project is expected to provide an updated hub for essential county services.

🏠 DMV Housing Market Outlook: The 2025 forecast predicts rising sales, increased inventory, and a 4.7% price jump for homes in the D.C. region. Lower mortgage rates could encourage more activity, but demand will keep competition high.

🧑🏼‍🏫 Fairfax Co. Public Schools Reach Teacher Retention Benchmark For First Time in 4 Years

Driving the news: Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is seeing its highest teacher retention rate in four years, signaling a positive shift as turnover declines following the challenges of the pandemic.

Details:

• Over 90% teacher retention: This improved year-to-year trend reflects a renewed stability across the division, including special education roles, which previously experienced the highest turnover rates.

• Substitute success: FCPS is reporting an 80-90% substitute teacher fill rate daily, thanks in part to retaining more full-time educators.

• Global partnerships: To fill remaining gaps, the county welcomed 101 new international "ambassador teachers" this year, with plans to add another 100 next year. Teachers come from programs like Participate Learning, which saw over 20,000 global applicants last year.

Why it matters: Teacher retention is critical for maintaining quality education and reducing disruptions in the classroom. Fairfax County's success offers hope for long-term stability and highlights innovative solutions like global recruitment to address staffing needs.

The big picture: Teacher shortages nationwide have strained school systems, especially in specialized fields like special education and STEM. Fairfax County’s progress reflects a larger effort to improve retention and diversify teaching staff by attracting local and international talent.

What’s next: FCPS will refine its interview and recruitment processes for international hires to address challenges like language barriers and ensure long-term success for ambassador teachers.

The bottom line: With improved retention rates and innovative hiring programs, Fairfax County Public Schools is setting a positive tone for the future of its classrooms, creating more consistency for both educators and students.

🎥 Asking Locals What They HATE About Living in Northern Virginia

What do locals hate about living here in Northern Virginia? In my latest video, I interview locals from Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William, and Loudoun County on life here in Northern Virginia.

🏛️ Designs for Planned Government Office Building Advance

Driving the news: Plans for a new 125,000-square-foot county government office building south of Leesburg are moving forward after receiving support from the Board of Supervisors’ finance committee.

Details:

• Phase one project: The three-story building will house the Development Services Hub, including planning and zoning, building and development, and the county health department's divisions.

• Long-term vision: This is the first of four planned government buildings, eventually totaling 425,000 square feet.

• Budget updates: The project’s estimated cost now stands at $115 million—$6 million over the original budget—prompting staff to evaluate cost-saving options.

• Sustainability focus: Supervisors proposed adding solar panels to the roof and parking lot and exploring district energy solutions, like using heat from nearby data centers, for future buildings on the site.

Why it matters: The new office building is a key investment in modern infrastructure, creating an efficient workspace for county departments while improving services for the public. It also sets the stage for long-term growth and sustainable development in the area.

The big picture: With Leesburg’s continued growth, this project represents the next generation of government facilities—designed to last for decades and accommodate evolving technology and workforce needs.

What’s next: The endorsed designs will advance to the full Board of Supervisors for final approval, with further cost-saving and sustainability measures still under review.

The bottom line: The county’s new office building marks a major step in improving operations, enhancing services, and prioritizing sustainability—all while supporting Leesburg’s future growth.

🎆 Northern Virginia's BEST Christmas & New Year's Events!

Celebrate the Holidays in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia is brimming with festive fun this season, offering holiday magic for all ages. From enchanting light displays to New Year’s celebrations, here are some of the can’t-miss events:

🎄 Christmas Highlights:

• Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens (Vienna): Stroll through dazzling holiday lights now through January 5.

• Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville): Drive through a winter wonderland of glowing displays through January 5.

• Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon: Experience fireworks, lights, and 18th-century activities December 20-22.

• Ice & Lights at Cameron Run Regional Park (Alexandria): Enjoy ice skating amid festive lights through January 5.

🎇 Ring in the New Year:

• First Night Alexandria: Old Town comes alive on December 31 with live performances, family-friendly activities, and fireworks.

• Watch Night Falls Church: Enjoy live music, fun activities, and the midnight "star drop" at this free festival.

• Noon Year’s Eve: Perfect for kids! Countdowns to noon take place at libraries across Loudoun County.

• Topgolf New Year’s Bash (Ashburn): Celebrate with golf, food, and drinks to welcome 2025.

Whether you’re exploring holiday lights, shopping for unique gifts, or toasting the New Year, Northern Virginia has something special for everyone. Be sure to check event websites for details and tickets—these popular celebrations fill up quickly!

🔑 What to Expect From the DMV Real Estate Market in 2025

Driving the news: The DMV housing market is poised for more sales, higher inventory, and rising prices in 2025, according to Bright MLS' housing market outlook.

Details:

• Home sales are projected to jump 7.9% next year, increasing from 49,630 in 2024 to 53,550 in 2025.

• Inventory is expected to rise 14%, with active listings climbing from 5,710 to 6,507.

• The median home price will likely increase by 4.7%, reaching $638,310 in 2025 (up from $609,700 in 2024).

• Lower mortgage rates are expected to encourage sellers and buyers back into the market, many of whom have been waiting on the sidelines.

Why it matters: With demand still high and supply gradually improving, competition remains strong for buyers. While prices will keep climbing, increased inventory and activity signal a healthier, more balanced market compared to recent years.

The big picture: Post-pandemic shifts — like the return to offices — could further fuel sales. Local employers such as Amazon and The Washington Post, along with federal task force leaders pushing for a five-day office week, may drive workers to move closer to job hubs.

What’s next: While mortgage rates are expected to drop, potential volatility could impact the market. Economic uncertainty may also leave some buyers and families feeling cautious about their financial security.

The bottom line: The DMV housing market is on track for growth in 2025, with more options for buyers and increased opportunities for sellers. However, lingering demand and price increases mean competition will remain a factor as the market adjusts.

📊 Our Current Local Market Numbers

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

🗞️ In Other News…

• Fairfax County leaders say plastic bag tax is encouraging shoppers to bring their own

• The Kennedys' first D.C. home is rehabbed and for sale

• New Year's Eve in D.C.: A high-brow vs. low-key guide

Chris Colgan - EXP Realty Powered by Place

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