If You Lived Here

As soon as they enter this classic center hall colonialin Bethesda's Westgate neighborhood, John and Christine are drawn to the window at end of the hallway. The home features a beautiful sun porch, a kitchen with a mix of vintage and new features, and a bright basement with new floors. Outside, a hand-built brick walled garden and beautiful landscaping give the home tremendous curb appeal.

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.

The style of this 4 bedroom, 2.1 bath home in Vienna, Virginia's Stonewall Manor neighborhood is dated, but when Christine and John look past the wallpaper and bathroom tile, it's easy to see the potential. The home has good bones and sits on a fabulous quarter acre lot. With a little TLC, "You can make your vision come to life very easily."

The railroad first came to Vienna in the mid 19th century and was the main source of transportation until World War II. Today the Northern Virginia Model Railroaders carry on Vienna's rail legacy from their headquarters at the historic Washington & Old Dominion Railroad train depot in the middle of town.

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.

John and Christine venture to the Carriage Hill neighborhood just outside of the town of Vienna and are blown away by the renovations in this 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath ranch style home. Hardwood floors unify the living spaces, while the gorgeous updated kitchen and bathrooms impress. Christine loves the cottage feel of the home's interior, which is enhanced by views out to the huge 1.3 acre lot.

"This is the creme de la creme of Vienna," exclaims John as he and Christine tour this 5 bedroom, 5.3 bath, 6475 square foot home just minutes from the town center -- and it's hard to argue. With glamorous finishes and high end architectural details from top to bottom, the home feels like private club. Downstairs, it has a huge bar and wine cellar. Upstairs, each bedroom has an en suite.

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.

This 4 bedroom, 3.1 bath three-story home in Washington DC's Deanwood neighborhood is over 100 years old but you wouldn't know it once you step inside. After a top to bottom renovation, everything is new, from the distinctive short plank maple floors, to the huge kitchen, and remodeled basement, which is a ready-made income property. "This house really gives you that, WOW!"

Christine and John are impressed by the thoughtful renovations in this 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath Cape Cod home in the Deanwood neighborhood of NE Washington DC. The kitchen has style and function with plenty of counter space and cabinets. The basement features exposed brick, a bedroom and full bathroom. On the main level, two more bedrooms flank a bathroom with 1920s Art Deco tile.

The Deanwood neighborhood in NE Washington, DC offers a diverse collection of houses on large lots, numerous green spaces and recreation opportunities, easy access to highways, and a Metro Station. But of all the amenities, Lederer Gardens may be the prize of the community. Located within Marvin Gaye Park, the communal garden is an urban agriculture effort designed to fight food insecurity.

With an attractive Spanish style exterior, back patio, and large yard it's hard to believe this home sits in the heart of a bustling city. Inside, the open concept design has great flow. Recessed lighting brightens the space and original hardwood floors add character. Downstairs, a renovated basement with full bath has great potential as an income property.