Living in Arlington County, VA offers a unique blend of urban convenience, community spirit, and quality of life. Whether you’re drawn by the job opportunities, educational excellence, or vibrant culture, Arlington has much to offer its residents.
Benefits of Living in Arlington County, VA
- Proximity to Washington, D.C.: Arlington is just across the Potomac River from D.C., making it an ideal location for commuters. Residents enjoy easy access to the nation’s capital, with a variety of public transportation options, including the Metro and bus services.
- Low Crime Rate: Arlington is known for its safety, with crime rates significantly lower than the national average. This makes it a great place for families and individuals looking for a secure environment
- Excellent Education: The county boasts highly-rated public schools and is home to several prestigious universities, including George Mason University. This focus on education attracts families and professionals alike
- Diverse Community: Arlington is a melting pot of cultures, offering a rich tapestry of experiences, cuisines, and community events. This diversity fosters a welcoming atmosphere for residents from all backgrounds
- Walkability and Green Spaces: The county is designed for pedestrians, with numerous parks, trails, and recreational areas. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities, from hiking to picnicking, enhancing their quality of life
- Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene: Arlington offers a variety of cultural activities, including theaters, galleries, and music venues. Residents can enjoy local festivals, art shows, and performances throughout the year
- Strong Job Market: With a robust economy and a variety of job opportunities, particularly in government, technology, and healthcare, Arlington is an attractive place for professionals seeking career growth
- Community Engagement: Arlington has a strong sense of community, with numerous events, farmers’ markets, and volunteer opportunities. Residents often come together to support local initiatives and celebrate their neighborhoods
- Access to Amenities: The county features a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. From trendy restaurants to local boutiques, there’s something for everyone to enjoy
A Guide to Building Your Dream Home in Arlington County
Building a home is an exciting journey, especially in a vibrant community like Arlington, Virginia. With its rich history, excellent schools, and proximity to Washington, D.C., Arlington is a sought-after location for new homeowners. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of building your dream home in this dynamic area.
1. Understanding Local Regulations
Before you start planning, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Arlington’s zoning laws and building codes. These regulations dictate everything from the types of structures allowed to setback requirements and height restrictions.
It’s important to note that Arlington has some of the strictest environmental plan requirements in the region. Navigating these regulations can be complex, so consulting with a local civil engineering firm like DeMarr Engineering is crucial for ensuring your plans comply with all necessary standards. Our experienced team can guide you through the process, helping to set your project up for success from the very beginning.
2. Choosing the Right Location
Arlington offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and amenities. When selecting your lot, consider factors such as proximity to schools, parks, public transportation, and shopping. Popular neighborhoods like Clarendon, Ballston, and Lyon Village each have distinct characteristics that may influence your decision.
Once you’ve selected a location, DeMarr Engineering can assist you by conducting a feasibility study to help you decide on a land purchase or a land survey to kickstart the design process. Our expertise ensures that you make informed decisions as you embark on building your dream home in Arlington.
3. Designing Your Home
Once you’ve secured your location, it’s time to design your home. Work with an architect or builder to create a layout that meets your needs and reflects your style. Think about the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and any special features you desire, such as a home office or outdoor living space.
4. Selecting a Builder & Site Contractor
Choosing the right builder is crucial to the success of your project. Look for a reputable home builder with experience in Arlington. Check their portfolio, read reviews, and ask for references. A good builder will communicate effectively and keep you informed throughout the construction process.
- One home builder we recommend is Classic Homes.
- For the Site Contractor, we recommend our parent construction company DeMarr Construction.
- Your builder would handle the actual home build and DeMarr would handle everything outside the building; Surveying, Civil Engineering, Site Work, & Site Management.
5. Financing Your Build
Understanding your financing options is essential when building a home. One common choice is a construction loan, which covers the costs associated with building your new home. It’s wise to speak with a financial advisor or mortgage broker to explore the best options tailored to your situation.
Additionally, be sure to budget for unexpected costs that may arise during construction. Factors such as a high groundwater table or poor soil conditions can impact your project and lead to additional expenses. Planning for these possibilities will help ensure a smoother building process and keep your project on track.
6. Navigating Permits and Approvals
Building a home in Arlington requires various permits and approvals, which can be a complex process. However, working with a knowledgeable civil engineering firm can streamline this journey. DeMarr Engineering is here to assist you in obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring that your project adheres to all local regulations.
Our Civil Engineering Services Include:
- Schematic Design: We help visualize your project and lay the groundwork for the design process.
- Design Development: This phase refines your plans, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision and regulatory requirements.
- LDA2.0 Site Plan for Stormwater Management: We create comprehensive plans that address stormwater management, a critical aspect of Arlington’s environmental regulations.
- Arborist Tree Conservation & Planting Plan: Our team develops plans to protect existing trees and incorporate new plantings, meeting minimum zoning canopy requirements enhancing the natural beauty of your property.
- Land Disturbance & Stormwater Management Permitting
With our expertise, you can navigate the permitting process with confidence, allowing you to focus on bringing your dream home to life.
7. Construction Process
Once all approvals are in place, construction can begin! It’s essential to stay engaged throughout the process by visiting the site regularly and maintaining open communication with your builder. This proactive approach will help you address any issues that arise and keep the project on track.
DeMarr Engineering Provides the Following Services During Construction:
- Limits of Disturbance (LOD) Stakeout: We conduct a LOD stakeout for the pre-construction meeting with County Inspectors to ensure compliance with local regulations.
- Excavation Stakeout & Cut-sheet Calculations: Our team provides precise measurements and calculations to guide the excavation process effectively.
- Brickpoints Stakeout for Foundation Walls: We ensure accurate placement of brickpoints to facilitate the construction of foundation walls.
- Wall Check As-built Survey: This survey is conducted for zoning review and approval, allowing you to proceed to framing with confidence.
- Seamless Communication: Questions between the Site Contractor and Civil Engineer are handled automatically, thanks to the collaboration between DeMarr Construction and DeMarr Engineering working on the same project. This integration ensures that any concerns are addressed promptly.
- Site Work Management & Consulting: We provide oversight, scheduling, and consulting for third-party contractors, including dry utility connections, landscaping, and driveway installation, ensuring that all aspects of the site work are executed smoothly.
8. Final Inspections and Moving In
After construction is complete, your home will undergo final inspections to ensure everything meets local codes. Once approved, you can move in and start making memories in your new home!
DeMarr Engineering Handles the Final As-Built Documents Required for Occupancy Permit:
- Best Management Practice (BMP) Installation Certification: We inspect and certify that all BMPs are installed correctly to meet environmental standards.
- Final Location, Height, and Lot Coverage Survey Plats: Our team provides detailed survey plats that confirm compliance with zoning regulations.
- Final Grading As-built Survey & Plan: We conduct a thorough grading survey to ensure proper drainage and site stability.
- Tree Planting Certification: We certify that all required tree plantings are completed according to local regulations.
- Submission of Final As-Built Documents: We handle the submission of all final as-built documents to the Arlington permit portal, streamlining the process for you.
Get Started
Building a home in Arlington, VA, is a rewarding experience that requires careful planning and consideration. By understanding local regulations, choosing the right location, and collaborating with experienced professionals like DeMarr Engineering, you can turn your dream home into a reality.
Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in building your dream home in Arlington VA!
