Jack and Jill–or Jack and Jack or Jil and Jill– on Capitol Hill

First time homebuyers are having a great time on Capitol Hill as the spring flowers begin to line the sidewalks, temperatures rise and great price and selection abound.  If you are looking to invest  600k-700k on “The Hill” there is no better time—low interest rates, the DC Homestead tax deduction and lots of new inexperienced buyers who will take their time to get the numbers right–or who may move impulsively.  If you have done your homework with a good realtor, you have your personal monthly budget clear and a pre-approval letter from your lender you are ready to grab a great deal on Cap Hill. Most buyers lack one or more of these above ingredients to be able to move swiftly when a great place comes on the market (and it will).  Just in the last month I have watched great Capitol Hill rowhouses get snatched up within days–with competing offers.  Sellers are not waiting too long, either, to bring down their prices to meet the market.  Be careful: some people will claim their property is on Capitol Hill but is not.  The historic disctrict is considered WEST of 13th St.  Properties on 18th and 19th will sometimes claim to be on Capitol Hill.  Go take a careful look and you will see the trick.