From My Desk

The Familiar Joy of Fall

The changing leaves always take me back to being a kid, when a freshly raked pile was an invitation to jump in. There was no real plan beyond making the biggest splash of leaves possible. The raking could wait.

I still love this time of year, especially when the mountains put on their fall colors. If you didn’t make it to Skyline Drive this year, put a drive toward the mountains on next year’s calendar. It’s one of those outings that is easy to keep meaning to do—and lovely when we finally make the time.

For now, there is plenty to enjoy a little closer to home. Here are a few local stops, community events and practical reminders for the weeks ahead.

— Tricia Filbert, REALTOR®️

Featured Home · Coming Soon

5303 Greenough Place

Burke, Virginia

I’m getting ready to bring this recently remodeled split-level home to the market. Set on a quiet cul-de-sac in Burke, it is ready for its new owners and their next chapter.

If you—or someone you know—have been looking for a home in Burke, reach out for details about this upcoming listing.

Request Details

Current Buyer Need

Do You Know This Home?

I am working with a buyer searching in the greater Manassas area for a home on at least three-quarters of an acre, with a garage and a basement or studio space suitable for drum practice.

If you own—or know of—a property that may fit, even if it is not yet on the market, I would be grateful for the introduction.

I May Know a Home

Around Northern Virginia

A Few Reasons to Get Out

Check event pages before heading out for updates.

Worth Knowing

Before the Leaves Become a Problem

A small amount of attention outside now can help keep water where it belongs. Once leaves start collecting, take a look at these easy-to-miss spots:

Gutters: Clear accumulated leaves so rain can flow through the system.

Walkout drains: Remove leaves and debris around basement entries and outdoor drains.

Downspouts: Check that discharge moves away from the foundation without sending water onto a neighboring property.

Street drains: Keep leaf piles away from storm drains and curbside gutters.

Need a hand finding someone to help with seasonal maintenance? I’m happy to share a local resource.

Fairfax County’s property-care guidance

Market in Plain English

More Choice. A More Specific Strategy.

+30.7% Active listings

−7.5% Closed sales

+4.2% Median sold price

September 2026, year over year, in NVAR’s reporting region. Inventory growth was concentrated in condos and townhomes; detached-home inventory rose 5.7%.

For buyers, start with the home and the terms that fit your needs. For sellers, look closely at competing homes, preparation and price. I can help you work through those decisions in your neighborhood.

NVAR’s region covers Fairfax and Arlington counties and Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church cities; these figures do not include Prince William or Loudoun counties.

NVAR September report · Published October 16

Local Business Spotlight

Nokesville Meats

12908 Fitzwater Drive · Nokesville

This is a local stop I can personally recommend. I buy meat at Nokesville Meats, and I’ve been impressed with the quality.

The shop offers beef, pork, chicken and lamb, along with fresh-made bratwurst. If you’re thinking about a weekend dinner or planning meals for visiting family, it’s worth stopping in and talking with their butchers.

Visit the Shop

On the Horizon

A Little Planning Ahead

And as you plan your holiday shopping, consider making room for a neighborhood shop or local maker on Small Business Saturday, November 28.

Until Next Time

A Conversation Is a Good Place to Start

Whether you’re planning a move, helping a family member think through a transition, or simply wondering what comes next, you don’t need to have every answer before we talk. I’m happy to help you sort through the possibilities.

Let’s Talk