In this week’s update:

🤵🏻 Vice President J.D. Vance Lists Alexandria Home for $1.69M: Vice President J.D. Vance is selling his Alexandria, VA, home for $1.69 million—just one month after he and his wife moved into their official new residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory.

💰 Chocolate Manufacturer to Invest $230M in Frederick County Facility: Chocolate manufacturer Clasen Quality Chocolate will invest $230 million to build a new production facility in Frederick County.

🌊 Atlantic Park Brings Surf & Entertainment to Virginia Beach: Atlantic Park is set to transform Virginia Beach with a year-round surf park, live entertainment venue, and a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and community spaces.

Driving the news: Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha, have put their Alexandria, VA, home on the market for $1.69 million, just weeks after moving into the official vice-presidential residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory.

Details:

• Vance purchased the five-bedroom farmhouse in February 2023 for $1.64 million through an LLC.

• The 1925 home was recently renovated, blending historic charm with modern updates.

• Features include an accessory dwelling unit with a kitchenette, wood-burning fireplace, and heated bathroom floors.

• The property sits in Del Ray, a high-end neighborhood known for its lively dining and entertainment scene.

Why it matters: The sale marks a shift for the Vance family as they transition into public life. It also highlights the contrast between Vance’s political stance and his choice to reside in a neighborhood known for its liberal leanings.

The big picture: Security around the home intensified after the 2024 election, with Secret Service agents stationed outside and local parks temporarily closed when the family was present. Vance’s time in Del Ray sparked mixed reactions from neighbors, with some questioning his alignment with conservative voters.

What they’re saying:

• Former neighbor Pierce Kreutzer: “He railed against liberal elites and then picked the wealthy liberal neighborhood outside DC to raise his kids.”

• Caroline Barna, another Del Ray resident: “It doesn’t bother me that he lives here; he’s got to live somewhere.”

What’s next: In addition to selling the Alexandria home, the Vances still own a Washington, DC, townhouse, which they have rented out since 2018. It remains to be seen whether they will hold onto that property or list it for sale as well.

Driving the news: Wisconsin-based Clasen Quality Chocolate will build a $230 million production facility in Frederick County, creating 250 jobs, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Friday.

Details:

• Clasen manufactures chocolate and confectionery coatings for major grocery chains and food companies.

• The facility will be located in Valley Innovation Park, a 145-acre industrial site.

• The company currently operates four manufacturing plants—three in Wisconsin and one in Nevada.

• Virginia secured the project through a partnership between the state and Frederick County’s economic development authority, with Youngkin approving a $3 million grant to assist in the deal.

Why it matters: The investment boosts Frederick County’s economy with job creation and tax revenue while strengthening Virginia’s reputation as a business-friendly state. The move also helps Clasen meet growing demand for its chocolate products.

The big picture: Clasen started as a family-owned bakery in 1959 and has grown into one of the country’s largest chocolate suppliers. Virginia’s mid-Atlantic location gives the company strategic access to domestic and international markets.

What they’re saying:

• Clasen President Jay Jensen: “We are excited to build our newest production facility in Virginia, enabling us to better serve our customers with high-quality chocolate products.”

• Gov. Glenn Youngkin: “Virginia provides one of the best business environments in the country, which cultivates the ecosystem for businesses like Clasen to thrive.”

• Del. Bill Wiley, R-Winchester: “This major investment in our local economy will help offset the impacts of our rapid expansion by creating jobs and strengthening our tax base.”

What’s next: Clasen has not yet announced a construction timeline or opening date, but the project marks a long-term investment in Frederick County’s economy and workforce.

See the surprising data behind why residents are abandoning the nation's capital in record numbers, where they're going, and whether this trend will continue.

Driving the news: The Museum of Culpeper History has set May 2-3 as the dates for its annual DinoWalk at Luck Stone Quarry, offering visitors a rare chance to see one of the largest collections of dinosaur tracks in North America.

Details:

• Nearly 5,000 dinosaur tracks from the Triassic period were discovered at the site in 1989.

• Since 2015, the museum has partnered with Luck Stone Quarry to offer public access days.

• Timed vehicle passes are required and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Parking is limited to vehicles no larger than a 15-passenger van.

• Each pass includes free same-day admission to the Museum of Culpeper History.

Why it matters: The event provides a unique opportunity for the public to step back in time and experience a major prehistoric discovery up close. It also supports local history and science education while boosting tourism in the Culpeper area.

The big picture: The Culpeper tracks are among the world’s most extensive dinosaur footprint sites, offering valuable insights into ancient ecosystems. The DinoWalk continues to be a highly anticipated event, drawing visitors from across the region.

What’s next:

• Passes for the May 3 tours go on sale to the general public April 12.

• Museum members at the family level or above can purchase early access passes for May 2, provided their memberships are active by March 31.

• More details and volunteer opportunities are available at culpepermuseum.com/dino-walk/.

Driving the news: Atlantic Park, a new year-round district in Virginia Beach, is set to redefine the city’s surf culture and entertainment scene with a mix of recreation, live events, dining, and retail. Anchored by a world-class artificial wave park, the development celebrates the city’s deep surfing roots while offering something for residents and visitors alike.

Details:

• Wave Park: Powered by Wavegarden technology, the surf park offers year-round waves for beginners and pros—just steps from the Atlantic Ocean.

• The Dome Reimagined: A flexible indoor-outdoor venue hosting concerts, civic events, and performances, continuing the legacy of the iconic Dome.

• Public Plaza: On non-event days, the space transforms into a community hub for arts fairs, markets, and free performances.

• Dining & Shopping: A blend of local favorites and national brands creates an elevated retail and culinary experience.

• Creative Spaces & Residences: The district also features office space and urban-style housing, making it a dynamic place to live and work.

Why it matters: Atlantic Park merges Virginia Beach’s surf heritage with modern entertainment and lifestyle offerings, boosting tourism and creating a vibrant gathering space for the community.

The big picture: As one of the most ambitious developments in Virginia Beach, Atlantic Park strengthens the city’s identity as a destination for surf culture, live entertainment, and dynamic urban living.

What’s next: With construction well underway, Atlantic Park is gearing up to welcome residents, visitors, and surf enthusiasts looking for an unmatched coastal experience.

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.

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Chris Colgan - EXP Realty Powered by Place

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