Peak of Waterfront Living

Luxury Waterfront Detached Homes

Living by the water in the Washington Metro region is a highly sought-after treat, even more so for those desiring luxury detached homes. It can be a challenging search in an area without an ocean in sight. Fortunately, the Potomac River, along with other rivers, streams, tributaries, ponds and lakes, provide a great alternative when there’s no salty seas. That said, some of Washington Metro’s waterfront locations are more prone to condominiums or cooperatives than detached homes.

Backyard of a home leading out to a waterfront

Luxury Waterfront Detached Homes Stats

Average Price $903K
Lowest Price $100K
Highest Price $72M
Total Listings 19,330
Avg. Price/SQFT $425

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More About Luxury Waterfront Detached Homes, Washington Metro

Although parts of DC such as the Southwest Waterfront, Southeast Washington, Foggy Bottom, and Georgetown present wonderful water views, they are not particularly well-known for the kind of classic detached waterfront home that may come to mind, such as those with large yards. You can sometimes find interesting alternatives in urban waterfront locations, however, such as tall and narrow historic Federal-style properties.

Heading north along the Washington coastline, you’ll come to residential communities like the Palisades, and Foxhall, where luxury detached homes are more prevalent. While these neighborhoods are close to the Potomac River, the C&O Canal, and the large Georgetown Reservoir, it can still be challenging to find waterfront homes that are actively available. Another DC area to consider is the Southeast quadrant, with multiple neighborhoods bordering the Anacostia River. 

The largest inventory of waterfront detached homes lies outside the District, although still squarely within Washington Metro. Alexandria is one of the most desirable target areas, along with parts of Arlington, Fairfax County, and the Maryland coastline. The independent City of Alexandria with its crown jewel Old Town, sits right on the Potomac and is a place that hopeful real estate buyers often target. The southern part of Alexandria is home to several other riverside communities including Belle Haven, Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, and Wessynton with its mid-century modern homes, including those overlooking Little Hunting Creek.

Lakes and ponds can also serve as splendid waterfront locations, a case in point being Lake Barcroft in the Falls Church area. Known for its mid-century modern houses, the community surrounds a lake with numerous small inlets. Many of the homes have private docks and beaches.

Heading further north, the unique community of Reston combines beautiful natural surroundings including a central lake, with a variety of distinct architectural styles. More elusive but certainly worth looking for are the grand estates overlooking the Potomac in very affluent communities such as McLean, and Great Falls. As for Maryland, coastal neighborhoods include Glen Echo, Cabin John, and Potomac.

To learn more about luxury waterfront detached homes for sale, call Andre Perez at District Partners at Compass, 202-929-3600.


Realtor Andre Perez

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Luxury Waterfront Detached Homes, DC Metro FAQs

Q: Is it easier to find a detached waterfront home or a waterfront condo in Washington, DC?

A: It is generally easier to find a waterfront condo, due to not only to the presence of condo and coop buildings, but the number of units in each building.

Q: Are there apt to be more luxury detached waterfront homes in the Alexandria area, compared to Washington, DC itself?

A: Yes, there are quite a few waterfront properties along Alexandria’s Potomac River coastline, as well as its tributaries.

Q: What bodies of water border Southeast Washington, DC?

A: The Anacostia River borders the Southeast quadrant. Right next-door is the Southwest quadrant, where the Anacostia River, the Potomac River, and Washington Channel all come together.

Q: Where would I find the largest number of shops and restaurants within walking distance of a waterfront location in DC Metro?

A: Old Town Alexandria, Georgetown, DC, The Wharf in DC, and Navy Yard in DC, are well known for waterfront attractions, shops and restaurants.


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