Is a cheaper condo always a red flag?

No. Many price differences come down to livability, layout, odor, timing, pricing strategy, or financing—not hidden defects.

Can smells really affect a condo’s value that much?

Yes. Persistent odors—especially smoke—can materially reduce buyer demand because removal can require significant time, cost, and effort, and results aren’t always guaranteed.

Why would one unit sit while another sells in the same building?

Buyers compare how units feel in person. Once they experience a superior unit—better view, light, layout, or overall feel—the less desirable unit may lose appeal even at a lower price.

Do cheaper units appreciate less over time?

It depends on why they are cheaper. Units discounted for fixable issues (like dated finishes) may close the gap after improvements. Units discounted for permanent factors (like view or exposure) often remain relatively lower priced.

Can a higher-priced condo ever be the better deal?

Yes. If the seller has an assumable FHA or VA loan with a low interest rate, a qualified buyer may pay more for the condo but still end up with a lower monthly payment than a cheaper unit financed at current rates.

What’s the smartest way to evaluate a lower-priced condo?

Compare recent sales in the same building, understand exactly why the unit is discounted, review condo documents early when applicable, and consider resale implications—not just list price.

Buying – Highlights – Arlington VA Condos | Every building. Every listing.

January 30, 2026

Why This Condo Is Cheaper Than the Others (And When to Be Careful)

Same building, similar square footage… so why is one condo priced so much lower? Here are the real reasons—some obvious, some surprising—and how smart buyers spot the difference.

December 19, 2025

Thinking About Buying an Arlington Condo? Here’s How Smart Buyers Prepare

If you’re thinking about buying an Arlington condo this year, the most important work happens before you ever tour. Here’s how smart buyers prepare—budget, condo docs, building research, and a strategy that leads to confident decisions.

November 21, 2025

What’s Your Real Condo Buying Power Right Now?

Before you fall in love with quartz counters and skyline views, it’s worth taking a clear look at what your real condo budget gets you in Arlington. Here’s how to calculate your true buying power—beyond the online calculators.

August 15, 2025

The Condo Costs That Can Blow Up Your Budget

Buying a condo in Arlington? Some costs can blow up your budget if you’re not prepared. From condo fees to special assessments and insurance gaps, learn what to watch for — and how to spot them before you make an offer. Smart buyers avoid costly surprises.

January 24, 2025

7 Traps That Condo Buyers Fall Into and How to Avoid Them

Buying a condo is a major decision that comes with a mix of emotions and challenges. Along the way, many buyers unknowingly fall into psychological traps that cloud their judgment and lead to regrets later. Whether it’s fixating on the “perfect” property, rushing to make an offer out of fear, or overlooking hidden costs, these mental pitfalls can derail even the most well-prepared buyer.

December 6, 2024

Who Pays for Home Inspections and Repairs?

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant investments many people make and getting a home inspection is an important step in the process to give you peace of mind. Understanding who pays for home inspections and repairs is crucial to navigating the process effectively. Here is a detailed breakdown of home inspections, their associated costs, and how to approach repair negotiations.

November 21, 2024

Do You Know Value? Appraisal, Assessment, AVM, CMA

When it comes to valuing residential real estate, the terminology can feel like a maze. Appraisal? Assessment? AVM? CMA? And how do they connect to market value? Let’s untangle this web and make sense of how these methods differ and overlap.

November 8, 2024

7 Strategies I Use to Find Off-Market Properties for Clients

In a market with limited inventory, off-market properties aren’t just for investors; they’re an excellent option for buyers seeking a primary residence. These homes offer owner-occupants a chance to purchase with less competition and at a favorable price.