Meg Olympia, Ashby Ponds Preferred Real Estate Agent, Shares Industry Insights

For retirees planning a move to Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., knowledge of the current real estate market and planning ahead are key.

To help future residents best prepare for their moves, Ashby Ponds maintains strong partnerships with Northern Virginia's top real estate agents, including Meg Olympia from Long and Foster.

Olympia, named a top real estate agent by the Washingtonian Magazine and the Northern Virginia Magazine every year since 2019, has helped hundreds of people sell their homes and move to Ashby Ponds.

Recently, she sat down with the Tribune to answer the questions she hears most often from future residents.

Q: What is the current Northern Virginia real estate market like?

A: Northern Virginia is, and looks to remain, one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. This summer, sales prices increased by 3.9%--outpacing the national average by 1.5%--and pending sales were up 9.5% from the same time last year.

This means that demand for homes in Northern Virginia is still very good, despite current interest rates. People who want to sell their homes--and receive top dollar--are still able to do just that because buyers are adjusting their expectations and how they finance their purchases. For instance, rather than selecting a 30-year fixed mortgage, some are opting for a 15-year mortgage with plans to refinance later.

Since 2020, inventory in Northern Virginia has been historically low. Even now, homes are still averaging only 15 days on the market, many with multiple offers and escalation. If you're looking to sell your house and move to Ashby Ponds, now is a great time!

Q: My house is pretty old. What updates should I make to prepare for a sale?

A: Many times, people have told me, "So much is wrong with my house." Before you take action, please allow your real estate agent to come and see if that's true. You probably don't need to make as many updates as you think!

It's always a good idea to fix anything that is broken, because it will definitely come up during the inspection. I also typically suggest refreshing the flooring and adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls, as it really helps freshen and brighten up your living spaces. However, I rarely see the need to redo kitchens and bathrooms, because the buyer will ultimately put in what they want.

The most important thing to know is that you, the homeowner, only need to do what you want or can afford to do. When I first visit a future resident's house, I ask if they would like to make any updates prior to listing and, if so, what their budget is. Given their budget, I then walk through their house with them, making suggestions on where they can best utilize their money.

There is always the option to sell your house "as is," too. Selling a home in Northern Virginia "as is" still reaps rewards!

Q: I haven't had to plan for a move or sell a house in a long time. Where do I start?

A: I've found that the biggest concern for those who have lived in their house for two or three decades is not knowing where to start.

As a result, I try to take as much off their plate as possible. Acting as a project manager, I help schedule meetings with moving companies and downsizing specialists, for example. I then attend the meetings with the seller. By bringing everyone together, I can help identify what is needed, direct the process, and--most importantly--support the seller as much as possible.

Q: What advice do you have for someone considering selling their house in 2026?

A: It's never too early to get started! I always recommend meeting with a few real estate agents to find the best fit. If there are updates you'd like to make to get your house ready for sale, you can tackle those items early so that when you're ready to move, your house is ready, too.

Another great place to start is decluttering. I suggest starting with closets and storage areas, getting rid of things you haven't used in years and wouldn't consider taking to Ashby Ponds. Sorting through your belongings can be a fun opportunity to share memories with your kids and grandchildren too.

Lastly, contact Ashby Ponds' planning and moving consultant, who can offer additional support throughout the process.

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Ashby Ponds, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Kelly Shue