Why Smart Money is Moving to Fairfax County, VA: An Insider's Look header image.

Fairfax County's Economic Paradox

Fairfax County, VA, is an economic titan, boasting more Fortune 500 headquarters than 30 states and home to the #1 public high school in America. Yet, despite its powerhouse status, some areas are seeing residents leave.

Why it matters: This shift reveals a crucial story about modern suburban life. While some seek less congestion elsewhere, a wave of high-income professionals, families, and investors is flocking to specific Fairfax communities, drawn by an unmatched combination of career opportunities, elite schools, and exclusive amenities. This is where the smart money is moving.

Go Deeper: The Economic Engine & Lifestyle

Fairfax's economy is a…

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A sunlit row of modern, multi-story brick townhomes with large windows at the Innovation Center in Manassas, VA.

Manassas, Virginia is buzzing with exciting developments that are reshaping the city into one of Northern Virginia’s most dynamic places to live, visit, and invest. From the reimagining of its top entertainment hubs to significant mixed-use construction, there’s a lot happening along the Route 234 corridor—and it’s just the beginning for the thriving **Manassas real estate market**.

Whether you're a local resident, a savvy **real estate investor** eyeing **Northern Virginia property**, or someone considering a move to the DMV, here’s everything you need to know about what's next for Manassas and why it's becoming a prime location for **new construction homes in Manassas VA**.

Key…

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A beautiful sunset over Lake Anna in Virginia, with the sun reflecting on the water, as seen from a boat.

When the air in Northern Virginia gets thick enough to swim through and the pavement starts to shimmer, you know the deep summer heat has arrived. Locals understand that sometimes the best remedy isn’t cranking up the A/C, but getting out of town—without having to go too far. Within a 1-2 hour drive of the D.C. metro area, you'll find crisp lake breezes, breezy mountaintops, and even natural, underground air conditioning.

Here are five incredible spots to unwind, recharge, and stay cool, complete with insider recommendations to make your escape unforgettable.

1. Lake Anna – The Ultimate Weekend Airbnb Retreat

Lake Anna is the quintessential summer escape that truly has it all:…

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Realtor Chris Colgan in front of a background of Northern Virginia homes, for a blog post about the May 2025 real estate market shifting to favor buyers.

Remember the days of offers 20% over asking and waived inspections being the norm? For years, Northern Virginia's real estate market felt like a runaway train. But the data from May 2025 has just pulled the emergency brake. The market isn't crashing, but it is undeniably rebalancing.

Data compiled from Bright MLS this June shows a clear trend: a dramatic increase in housing supply and a slowdown in the lightning-fast pace of sales. This is the moment many buyers have been waiting for, while sellers will need to adjust their strategies to succeed. Here are the five key signs that the Northern Virginia market is shifting and what it means for you.

1. The Inventory Floodgates Have Opened

The…

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People are Leaving Washington DC for Virginia

Why Everyone’s Leaving DC for Northern Virginia: What Buyers (and the Data) Are Really Saying

Meta Title: Why People Are Leaving DC for Northern Virginia in 2025
Meta Description: Thousands are leaving Washington, DC for the suburbs of Northern Virginia. Here’s what’s behind the shift—from taxes and crime to green space, schools, and real estate value.

Introduction: The Great Urban Shift No One Saw Coming

Over the past four years, something big has been happening in the DMV—and it’s not just about politics or new Metro stops. While Washington, D.C. lost nearly 89,000 residents, Fairfax County alone added more than 112,000 new ones. That’s not a coincidence. It’s a mass migration. And it’s…

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A ground-level view of a new Stanley Martin townhome building under construction at Innovation Town Center, showing the wood framing and roof trusses.

Live, Work, & Invest: The Real Truth About Innovation Town Center in Manassas, VA

If you’ve been driving down Route 234 in Manassas lately, you can’t miss it — this massive development rising from nothing. Look, I’ve sold over a billion dollars in Northern Virginia real estate, and I’m telling you straight: Innovation Town Center isn’t just another cookie-cutter neighborhood trying to grab your money. It’s more than just a place to live; it’s a community designed for connection, lifestyle, and real experiences.

This is different. It’s not just a home — it’s about getting in on something that’s going to reshape Prince William County before everyone else catches on. I’m breaking down…

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A wide aerial view of a large construction site in Haymarket, Virginia, with foundation walls in place, located next to a major highway, with the Bull Run Mountains in the background.

Gainesville, VA – The landscape of Gainesville and Haymarket is set for a major upgrade with the arrival of Heathcote Marketplace, a dynamic new retail destination taking shape at the highly visible intersection of Route 15 (James Madison Highway) and Heathcote Boulevard. For local residents and busy commuters, this 31-acre development promises a new era of convenience.

Just a stone's throw from the I-66 interchange, Heathcote Marketplace is bringing a powerhouse lineup of anchor tenants, including the much-anticipated Sprouts Farmers Market. With construction progressing and official county approvals secured, this project is solidifying its role in elevating the local lifestyle and enhancing…

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Realtor Chris Colgan takes a selfie with comedian and actor Cedric the Entertainer at the LIV Golf tournament at Lake Manassas in Gainesville, Virginia.

The Ultimate Guide to Living in Gainesville, Virginia (2025 Edition)

Thinking about moving to Gainesville, Virginia? You’ve come to the right place. Nestled in Prince William County, about 35 miles west of Washington D.C., Gainesville offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern convenience. Once a quiet crossroads, it has blossomed into one of Northern Virginia’s most desirable communities.

Whether you're relocating from across the country, seeking a family-friendly suburb, or looking for the perfect place to settle into your professional life, this guide has you covered. As a local real estate expert with deep roots in the community, I’m excited to give you the inside scoop on…

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A flyer for the Colgan Team - Place - eXp Realty Client Appreciation Party, held at The Roost at Farm Brewery, featuring autographs from Washington Commanders football players.

Here at the Colgan Team, we’ve always believed that real estate is about more than just buying and selling houses; it’s about building lasting relationships and fostering a sense of community. That’s why, on a beautiful Saturday, we threw a client appreciation party to remember at one of our favorite local spots: The Farm Brewery at Broad Run. This event was our way of saying a huge "thank you" to the over 300 clients from across Northern Virginia who have trusted us with their real estate journeys. You are the reason we are consistently named among the best realtors in Northern Virginia, and it was an honor to celebrate with you.

A Day to Remember: Giving Back to Our Valued Clients

The…

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Northern Virginia Homes

10 Realities of Living in Northern Virginia: An Insider's Guide

Thinking about moving to Northern Virginia? You're not alone. This area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and for good reason. But before you pack your bags, it's crucial to understand the full picture.

As a lifelong resident and a Realtor here for the past 20 years, I’ve seen it all. I’m Chris Colgan, and my family has deep roots in this community. My team and I are here to give you the inside scoop—the 10 absolute realities of living in NoVA.

1. The Prime Location is a Game-Changer

There's no denying it: Northern Virginia’s location is a primary draw. We're on the doorstep of Washington D.C., which…

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