Culture

If You Lived Here

WETA's house-hunting series spotlights a wide array of neighborhoods and properties throughout the national capital area while celebrating each area’s history, culture, notable places and flavor. Hosts, best friends and longtime Washingtonians Christine Louise and John Begeny tour homes and communities with local realtors, exploring the D.C. Metro region one neighborhood at a time.

Rockville

28m 36s

Together with Rockville realtor Rowena De Leon, John and Christine Louise visit three homes in the Maryland neighborhood from a starter condo to a dream bungalow. Along the way, our hosts explore the history of Rockville Pike, Offutt’s General Store (which later became Hank Dietle’s Tavern), and stop by Gwennie’s Bakery, a local Filipino business featuring traditional UBE desserts.

Episodes

  • Rockville: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Rockville

    S3 E16 - 28m 36s

    Together with Rockville realtor Rowena De Leon, John and Christine Louise visit three homes in the Maryland neighborhood from a starter condo to a dream bungalow. Along the way, our hosts explore the history of Rockville Pike, Offutt’s General Store (which later became Hank Dietle’s Tavern), and stop by Gwennie’s Bakery, a local Filipino business featuring traditional UBE desserts.

  • Foggy Bottom: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Foggy Bottom

    S3 E15 - 28m 35s

    In Foggy Bottom, hosts John and Christine explore life along the Potomac River with realtor Gigi Winston. With tours of an updated one-bedroom unit, followed by a two-bedroom townhouse, to a dream renovation overlooking the river at the Watergate Complex, viewers might never want to leave. Plus, dive into the history and activity of the Kennedy Center and the past, present and future of Watergate.

  • Columbia: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Columbia

    S3 E14 - 28m 50s

    Realtor Peter Boscas takes John and Christine on a tour of Columbia, MD, a planned community that inspires local residents with its vision for diversity and inclusion. The hosts visit a classic Columbia townhome, a contemporary property and a newly built four-bedroom home. The episode also explores Merriweather Post Pavilion and shares stories of the famous artists that have performed there.

  • Rosslyn: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Rosslyn

    S3 E13 - 28m 26s

    In Rosslyn, with realtor Aiden Berri, John and Christine explore urban living, from a ground-level condo with a perfect patio, to a two-bedroom with incredible views, to a stunning penthouse with its own private elevator. Viewers will explore Rosslyn’s history and residential renaissance, plus some unique background about its famous neighbor, Arlington National Cemetery.

  • Leesburg: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Leesburg

    S3 E12 - 28m 45s

    Vineyards, country charm and history – welcome to Leesburg! Join hosts John Begeny, Christine Louise and realtor Vicky Noufal, as they tour 3 homes in this Virginia community, including a single-family built in 1798, a five-bedroom in the heart of the Lansdowne neighborhood and a gorgeous large home on 11 acres.

  • Mount Rainier: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Mount Rainier

    S3 E11 - 28m 46s

    With realtor Silvana Dias, hosts John and Christine visit the “streetcar suburb” of Mount Rainier, MD. First, visit a bungalow that encapsulates the “epitome of a Mount Rainier home,” then an “urban-country” historic farmhouse, and, finally, a newly built home in the heart of the neighborhood. Also, meet 3 of Mount Rainier’s mayors and learn about the thriving artistic community.

  • Adams Morgan: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Adams Morgan

    S3 E10 - 28m 49s

    Guided by realtor David Bediz, John and Christine visit Adams Morgan, a popular entertainment destination in D.C. with both diverse housing options and a diverse community. Tour a one bed/one bath apartment that overlooks Meridian Hill Park, a Beaux-Arts style co-op in the heart of the neighborhood, and a 100-year-old town house on a quiet street.

  • Annandale: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Annandale

    S3 E9 - 28m 10s

    In Annandale, VA, hosts John and Christine tour 3 homes with realtor Deirdre Thao Vo. First, a split-level starter home, followed by a charming mid-century modern home with contemporary updates. Finally, the hosts explore a 5 bed/5 bath modern, open-concept home. Also learn about Annandale’s Korean food and business community, thriving local arts scene and one particularly interesting shop.

  • Logan Circle: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Logan Circle

    S3 E8 - 28m 31s

    With realtor Daryl Judy, John and Christine tour 3 homes in Logan Circle, D.C. First, a one bedroom condo with a loft and rooftop terrace. Next, a modern condo with beautiful updates. And finally, a 5-bedroom row home featuring architectural arches. Also, learn about the evolution of Logan Circle from local business owners and residents who have lived through the transformation of the area.

  • Bethesda: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Bethesda

    S3 E7 - 28m 36s

    John and Christine travel to Bethesda, Maryland with realtor Dana Rice to tour three distinct houses. First, visit a bungalow-style starter home, then a “stereotypical” Bethesda colonial-inspired home, and finally, a 2000-built renovated home situated on a country lane. Also, hear from historians, meet a horticulturist from the local coop, and tour the Josiah Henson Museum and Park.

  • Vienna: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Vienna

    S3 E6 - 28m 41s

    Nestled along the Washington & Old Dominion railroad line, Vienna is home to many local favorites, including the Vienna Town Green and Jammin Java music venue. With help from realtor Lex Lianos, hosts John and Christine tour and guess the listing prices of three homes, ranging from 1960s split-levels to 2020s bungalow styles. Also, hear from Vienna mayor Linda Colbert.

  • Deanwood: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Deanwood

    S3 E5 - 28m 10s

    Once home to legendary Motown singer Marvin Gaye, the Deanwood neighborhood in D.C. has a deep sense of community among its residents. Join hosts John and Christine and realtor Keith James as they tour 3 homes built between the 1910s and 1920s and learn about the neighborhood’s many churches, the Lederer Community Garden in Marvin Gaye Park and Nannie Helen Burroughs’ National Training School.

Extras + Features

  • This New Build in Columbia Blends Charm and Convenience: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    This New Build in Columbia Blends Charm and Convenience

    S3 E14 - 5m 39s

    Christine and John explore a brand new 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3,600 square foot colonial home in Columbia, Maryland. Nestled by a scenic pathway with a natural buffer, this home offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience. The formal living room makes a statement as soon as they walk in and a stunning kitchen features neutral tones and shiny new appliances.

  • An Updated Townhouse with Retro 1970s Charm in Columbia: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    An Updated Townhouse with Retro 1970s Charm in Columbia

    S3 E14 - 5m 10s

    John and Christine tour a 3-bed, 2.5-bath townhouse in the charming village of Long Reach in Columbia, Maryland. Built in 1977, this gem has undergone recent updates while retaining its retro 1970s charm. For John, whose family moved to this neighborhood back in 1975, it is a trip down memory lane!

  • James Rouse's Vision for an Inclusive Columbia, MD Lives On: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    James Rouse's Vision for an Inclusive Columbia, MD Lives On

    S3 E14 - 3m 41s

    Author Josh Olson and Shirley Harden -- a longtime Columbia, Maryland resident -- describe the history of the town and the visionary legacy of James Rouse, its founder. Rouse's dream was to create a community that incorporates nature, prioritizes diversity, and offers a rich tapestry of living experiences.

  • Preview: Rosslyn: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Preview: Rosslyn

    S3 E13 - 30s

    In Rosslyn, with realtor Aiden Berri, John and Christine explore urban living, from a ground-level condo with a perfect patio, to a two-bedroom with incredible views, to a stunning penthouse with its own private elevator. Viewers will explore Rosslyn’s history and residential renaissance, plus some unique background about its famous neighbor, Arlington National Cemetery.

  • A Perfect Blend of Suburban Comfort and Urban Convenience: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    A Perfect Blend of Suburban Comfort and Urban Convenience

    S3 E13 - 5m 35s

    Welcome to the serene and stylish world of Rosslyn living! John and Christine are blown away by the features of this 2BR, 2.5 BA condo in Rosslyn, VA. The kitchen, complete with a Jenn Air range and fridge, boasts a striking herringbone-patterned backsplash. The main living area features large windows that flood the space with natural light, but the real star is the rooftop deck!

  • Luxury Condo Living in the Heart of Rosslyn: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Luxury Condo Living in the Heart of Rosslyn

    S3 E13 - 7m 25s

    Christine and John are blown away by this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo in Arlington VA's Rosslyn neighborhood. The unit offers breathtaking views from all sides and boasts modern urban living at its finest. From the private elevator ride to the rooftop pool, and high end finishes throughout, this condo has it all.

  • This Rosslyn Condo Has Cool City Living Vibes in Arlington: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    This Rosslyn Condo Has Cool City Living Vibes in Arlington

    S3 E13 - 5m 54s

    Christine and John explore a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit in the Atrium Condos community in Rosslyn, Virginia. Just steps away from the Rosslyn Metro, the building has a unique glass design. The unit features a spacious living area, floor-to-ceiling windows, bamboo flooring, a well-appointed kitchen with ample counter space and cabinetry, and a stylish bathroom with a pedestal sink.

  • Bringing History Alive at Arlington House: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Bringing History Alive at Arlington House

    S3 E13 - 3m 48s

    Arlington historian Charlie Clarke and National Park Service historian Mark Maloy discuss the rich history of Arlington County and the Rosslyn neighborhood. Arlington House, from which the county gets its name, was originally built by George Washington Parke Custis and his slaves in 1802. The estate played a crucial role in the life of Robert E. Lee and the events leading up to the Civil War.

  • Get a Glimpse of Resort Living at Lansdowne on the Potomac: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Get a Glimpse of Resort Living at Lansdowne on the Potomac

    S3 E12 - 6m 33s

    John and Christine tour a huge, 6,400 square foot, 5-bedroom, 4.5 bath home in Lansdowne on the Potomac, a resort community in Leesburg, Virginia. They are blown away by the home's grand entrance, formal dining room, family room, gourmet kitchen and beautiful golf course views. If you buy this house, you may never want to go on vacation because you'd be living a vacation lifestyle right at home!

  • "It's a starter house, but really it's a forever home.": asset-mezzanine-16x9

    "It's a starter house, but really it's a forever home."

    S3 E12 - 6m 45s

    Christine and John visit Leesburg, Virginia's Gibson House, a historic 2-bedroom, 1.5 bath home that was built in 1790s and belonged to the prominent Gibson family. The cozy historic home features heart pine floors, exposed beams, and more historic charm alongside modern appliances and luxury finishes. Realtor Vicky Noufal sums is up best, "It's a starter house, but really it's a forever home."

  • Preview: Leesburg: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Preview: Leesburg

    S3 E12 - 30s

    Vineyards, country charm and history – welcome to Leesburg! Join hosts John Begeny, Christine Louise and realtor Vicky Noufal, as they tour 3 homes in this Virginia community, including a single-family built in 1798, a five-bedroom in the heart of the Lansdowne neighborhood and a gorgeous large home on 11 acres.

  • "Rustic But Refined" Living in Virginia Wine Country: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    "Rustic But Refined" Living in Virginia Wine Country

    S3 E12 - 8m 2s

    Christine and John can't get over the "rustic but refined" vibe of this custom built home outside of Leesburg, Virginia. Sitting on 11 acres adjacent to a vineyard, the house has a lodge-like feel with a hand-carved mantle on the fireplace, a giant stained-glass window, and a beautiful view of a pond. With a cohesive design from top to bottom, what's not to love?

Schedule

  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Mt. Rainier

    Saturday
    Mar 30

    30 Minutes

    Tour of three houses in Mount Rainier, Md.
  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Leesburg

    Saturday
    Mar 30

    30 Minutes

    Tour of three houses in Leesburg, Va.
  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Saturday
    Apr 6

    30 Minutes

    Touring homes and communities in the Washington, D.C. region.
  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Saturday
    Apr 6

    30 Minutes

    Touring homes and communities in the Washington, D.C. region.
  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Saturday
    Apr 13

    30 Minutes

    Touring homes and communities in the Washington, D.C. region.
  • Image
    If You Lived Here: TVSS: Banner-L1

    If You Lived Here

    Rockville, MD

    Saturday
    Apr 13

    30 Minutes

    Touring homes and communities in the Washington, D.C. region.

Remembering John Begeny

On August 21, 2023, the WETA community lost a dear friend in John Begeny, co-host of If You Lived Here. Learn more about John's amazing life, and share your memories.

Metro DC Neighborhood Guide

The Neighborhood Guide explores the diverse array of neighborhoods highlighted in If You Lived Here — expanding upon the history and culture of each area and providing detailed information about population, transportation, schools, restaurants and other unique features.

WETA Passport

Stream tens of thousands of hours of your PBS and local favorites with WETA Passport whenever and wherever you want. Catch up on a single episode or binge-watch full seasons before they air on TV.