Philippa Main
Ready to Sell Your Home in Fairlington?
Fairlington was built between 1942 and 1944 as a large-scale, publicly funded Colonial Revival garden-apartment community to house wartime federal workers. Designed by Kenneth Franzheim and Alan Mills, the development once consisted of over 3,400 units, making it the largest apartment complex in the nation at the time. Fairlington later transitioned to condominiums in the 1970s and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. The neighborhood's coherent architectural style, mature landscaping, and pedestrian-oriented layout reflect its original planning goals. Today it remains a vibrant, walkable community with a distinctive identity rooted in its wartime origins and visionary design.
Frequently Asked Questions About Selling A Home in Fairlington
When is the best time of year to sell a home in Fairlington?
Fairlington homes tend to sell quickly between March and May, when buyers are actively searching and the neighborhood’s green spaces and brick architecture look their best.
What’s the price range for homes in Fairlington?
Most Fairlington properties, primarily townhomes and condos, sell between the mid $400,000s and mid $700,000s. Fully renovated or end-unit homes can command a premium, especially those with bonus space or outdoor patios.
What types of buyers are purchasing in Fairlington right now?
Fairlington attracts first-time buyers, young professionals, and downsizers who value low-maintenance living, historic charm, and community amenities. Many are drawn to the neighborhood’s quiet streets and easy access to Shirlington, I-395, and DC.
Should I list my Fairlington property or consider selling it off-market?
Listing publicly is the best strategy for most Fairlington sellers. The area has strong buyer demand, and competitive listings often generate multiple offers. Off-market deals are less common and typically leave money on the table.
What makes a Fairlington home stand out to buyers?
Buyers love homes with renovated kitchens and bathrooms, finished basements, hardwood floors, and private outdoor space. Proximity to green spaces, pools, and community centers also adds value in this condo-townhome community.
What does the selling process involve in Fairlington?
Selling in Fairlington means preparing the home for showings, reviewing recent sales with a local agent, and managing HOA documentation and disclosures. A well-staged, professionally marketed property can sell quickly to eager buyers.
How do I find the right real estate agent to sell in Fairlington?
Choose an agent with specific experience in Fairlington’s unique condo-townhome setup. They should know how to highlight the neighborhood’s charm, price according to model variations, and explain HOA features to prospective buyers.
Have a home in Fairlington to sell? Find out

More about Fairlington
Fairlington is a highly sought-after neighborhood in South Arlington, best known for its distinctive red-brick Colonial-style townhomes and garden-style condominiums. Originally built in the 1940s to house defense workers during World War II, Fairlington has since become one of the region's most popular communities for those looking for classic charm, low-maintenance living, and a strong sense of community. Located near the border with Alexandria, Fairlington offers easy access to I-395, the Pentagon, Shirlington, and National Landing.
Selling a home in Fairlington means appealing to buyers who value architectural consistency, walkability, and a well-maintained community. For those preparing to sell my Fairlington home, it's important to showcase the neighborhood's historical appeal, spacious green courtyards, and the extensive list of community amenities. Many units have been updated with open kitchens, modern bathrooms, and in-unit laundry while maintaining period details such as crown molding and hardwood floors.
Fairlington is divided into several condo associations, each with its own set of amenities like pools, tennis courts, and community centers. These amenities, along with the beautifully landscaped common areas and pedestrian-friendly layout, create a village-like feel that continues to attract buyers. Homes in Fairlington are particularly popular among first-time buyers, downsizers, and professionals seeking a turnkey property in a prime location.
The neighborhood's proximity to Shirlington adds a vibrant, urban layer to the Fairlington lifestyle. Residents enjoy walkable access to restaurants, boutique shops, theaters, and a regional library. The nearby Shirlington Dog Park and Four Mile Run Trail offer convenient outdoor recreation options. These features should be highlighted when selling a home in Fairlington, as they underscore the balance of lifestyle and location that buyers are seeking.
Transit access is excellent, with multiple Metrobus routes and ART buses connecting residents to the Pentagon Metro and surrounding areas. The neighborhood also offers easy driving access to Route 7, Glebe Road, and King Street, making it a commuter's dream for those working in DC, Arlington, or Alexandria.
The Fairlington housing market remains consistently strong due to its timeless architecture, sense of community, and unbeatable convenience. Whether you're selling a one-bedroom garden unit or a multi-level townhome with a finished basement and attic, listings that emphasize thoughtful updates, location benefits, and access to amenities tend to sell quickly. For homeowners thinking about how to sell my Fairlington home, professional staging and high-quality photography can go a long way in highlighting both the home's features and the community lifestyle.
Selling a home in Fairlington gives you the chance to market a neighborhood that offers charm, convenience, and long-term value. With its historic character, community amenities, and walkable access to culture and commerce, Fairlington continues to stand out as one of Arlington's most desirable places to live.
WHY FAIRLINGTON IS A SELLERS MARKET
Fairlington's historic charm, community feel, and strategic location near Shirlington and I-395 make it a hot spot for buyers. With its popular brick townhomes and strong HOA amenities, demand remains consistently high and inventory turns over quickly.
HOW TO SELL A HOME IN FAIRLINGTON
Emphasize HOA perks like pools, tennis courts, and maintained green space.
Highlight proximity to Shirlington and easy access to DC.
Stage to reflect the balance of vintage charm and modern updates.
With over 10 years of real estate experience and more than $100 million of real estate sold since 2017, Philippa Main is a trusted, experienced, and full‑time Realtor with a proven track record. A Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist, Pricing Strategy Advisor, and Certified Client Protection Expert, she has a deep knowledge of the Northern Virginia real estate market. She worked in new construction marketing at D.R. Horton and has guided first‑time homebuyers, probate estate sellers, people relocating in and out of state, and more.
Praised in reviews as “knowledgeable,” “hard‑working,” “dependable,” and “excellent,” clients often say she “works harder than any realtor I have worked with in the past” and "protected our best interests." Known for being prompt, proactive, and highly detail‑oriented, Philippa personally manages each transaction (with no assistants or junior team members) so clients receive her direct expertise at every step.
Available seven days a week, she customizes strategies tailored to each client, ensuring seamless experiences in both buying and selling.
As a top performing real estate agent in the country and recognized by HomeLight as a top producer and top negotiator, Philippa stands out for her comprehensive market insight, strategic pricing assistance, and home staging guidance.
Whether navigating probate sales, downsizing, upsizing, relocation, senior moves, or more, clients benefit from her strong negotiation skills and transparent communication.
More About Philippa Main - Top Northern Virginia Realtor
