Living
Parties, tours, exhibits and more
Region bustling with fall home & garden-related events


David ReidĀ (left) and James Klein will be at Room & Board today in Washington. (Photo courtesy Room & Board)
Ceramic designers and coupleĀ James Klein and Davin Reid of KleinReidĀ will visit Room & Board (1840 14th St., N.W.) today (Friday, Sept. 29) fromĀ 5-7 p.m.Ā for a āmeet-the-artistsā event. Theyāre known for their elaborate vases and pottery that are created with a 28-step process. Details atĀ roomandboard.com.
The Rhode Island Avenue 2017 Fall FestĀ isĀ Saturday, Sept. 30Ā fromĀ 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Ā on Rhode Island between 20-24th streets, N.E. The event showcases āone of the hottest real estate markets in D.C.ā for a full day of āshopping, food and entertainment for the whole family.ā Details atĀ riamainstreet.org.
Hillwood Estate, Museum & GardensĀ (4155 Linnean Ave., N.W.) has garden tours on various dates throughĀ Sunday, Nov. 12 at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.Ā Tour guides lead visitors through the grounds and share facts about the estateās design, history, plans and flowers in 13 acres of formal gardens. Details atĀ hillwoodmuseum.org.
The Bloomingdale Civic Association will host its āHistoric Bloomingdale: Victorian Secrets & Modern Truths House Tour and Receptionā onĀ Saturday, Oct. 28Ā fromĀ 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.Ā (rain date isĀ Sunday, Oct. 29). Six houses will be on the self-guided tour. Tour registration will take place at Tyber Creek Wine Bar & Kitchen (First and Rhode Island Ave., N.W.) starting atĀ 10:30 a.m.Ā A reception will be held fromĀ 4-7 p.m.Ā at Old Engine 12 restaurant (1626 N. Capitol St., N.W.). Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 day of. Details atĀ bloomingdalecivicassociation.o
The Washington chapter of Ikebana InternationalĀ (ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arranging) is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a grand exhibitionĀ Oct. 6-9Ā at the U.S. National Arboretum (3501 New York Ave., N.E.) with about 80 ikebana arrangements on display. Demonstrations from master teachers will also be held onĀ Oct. 8-9Ā atĀ 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.Ā each day. Both are free and open to the public. Details atĀ bonsai-nbf.org.
Big Gay Flea: a Queer MarketĀ will be heldĀ Sunday, Oct. 1Ā at Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) fromĀ noon-5 p.m.Ā with 30 indoor vendor spaces available. Exhibitors will be local gay businesses and artisans, drag queens selling wares and collectors. Vendors will be outside; indoor area will have games, bar service, drag performances, DJs and more. Outdoor market is all ages and free. Indoor is 21-and-up with ID. Details atĀ towndc.comĀ or search for the event on Facebook.
The 10th annualĀ D.C. Design HouseĀ (9004 Congressional Court, Potomac, Md.) will be held fromĀ Sept. 30-Oct. 29Ā with 23 designed spaces, four boutiques, a celebration event on Sept. 28 and events throughout the month in the homeās ballroom. OnĀ Thursday, Oct. 5 at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., former chief White House florist Laura Dowling will present her book āA White House Christmas.ā Sheāll sign copies; admission tickets to this event include a guided tour of the Design House. Look for the event onĀ eventbrite.comĀ for details.
The National CathedralĀ (3101 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.) has its fall festival onĀ Saturday, Oct. 7Ā fromĀ 11 a.m.-5 p.m.Ā Details atĀ cathedral.org.
Live music takes over Adams Morgan onĀ Saturday, Oct. 7Ā for theĀ Adams Morgan PorchFestĀ fromĀ 2-6 p.m.Ā on various porches, patios and stoops in the neighborhood featuring 30 bands. Maps available at the event at the corner of 18th and Columbia Rd., N.W. Search for the event on Facebook for details.
The 10th annualĀ OktoberfestĀ isĀ Oct. 19-22Ā at the Doener Bistro (202 Harrison St., S.E.) in Leesburg, Va., and offers āmerrymaking at its bestā with āboot drinking, chicken dancing and Lederhosen-wearing, like-minded friendsā celebrating Bavarian style. Another will be held in Frederick, Md.,Ā Oct. 6-8. Full details atĀ doener-usa.com.
Merrifield Garden Center, with locations in Merrifield, Fairfax and Gainesville (all Virginia) has gardening seminars scheduled throughout fall, a Halloween scavenger hunt and doggie Halloween costume contest onĀ Oct. 28Ā (Gainesville location), ladiesā night out onĀ Nov. 16, holiday workshops for Thanksgiving and Christmas and more. Full details and locations atĀ merrifieldgardencenter.com.
TheĀ D.C. Big Flea MarketĀ will be heldĀ Nov. 4-5Ā at the Dulles Expo Center (4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, Va.) in the South Hall. Period and country furniture and collectibles of all eras including glassware, jewelry, silver, porcelain and more. Admission is $10. Details atĀ thebigfleamarket.comĀ orĀ dullesexpo.com.
TheĀ Germantown Family Fall FestivalĀ will be held onĀ Saturday, Nov. 4Ā fromĀ 11 a.m.-2 p.m.Ā near Safeway (19718 Germantown Rd.). The shops at Town Center will host their fourth annual event with face painting, snacks, a football-watching party and more. Itās free. The event has a Facebook page for details.

This Japanese floral arrangement is an example of ikebana, the complex system of arranging that will be on display at the 60th anniversary of Ikebana International exhibit Oct. 6-9 in Washington. (Photo courtesy KRPR)
Real Estate
Navigating D.C.ās down payment assistance programs
On the way home, after a detour and a few speed bumps

D.C. offers some of the most extensive programs for down payment assistance that are managed by the Greater Washington Urban League and the DC Housing Finance Authority, for programs like HPAP and EAHP (Home Purchase Assistance Program and Employer Assisted Housing Program).
The District also offers the DC Opens Doors Program. All of these are great examples of offerings to help first-time or newer home purchasers to afford buying in the District of Columbia, one of the nationās most expensive housing markets.
There are various requirements for a buyer to use the program. These can be found at dhcd.dc.gov/service/homeownership. Many qualified local lenders are knowledgeable about these programs and can assist in dozens of these transactions each year. Often, asking a lender about these programs is a great place to start. Tina Del Casale with Sandy Spring Bank has been helping her clients with these programs for years. As part of her education outreach for clients, Tina informs her buyers of the following:
- In the HPAP and the EAHP program, the seller must provide the opportunity for the buyer to perform a home inspection with a qualified home inspector. Ā
- The items that are flagged as āmust repairsā need to be fixed by the seller. Ā
- The buyer must get their financial documentation to the lenders involved, as well as to the District of Columbia to be approved to use the program. Ā
- Whichever organization or department is managing the down payment assistance fund disbursal will also be involved in the process.Ā
- Ideally, it takes about 45-60 days from the date of ratification (going under contract) to close (the settlement date)Ā
- The lenders help to qualify/approve the condo buildings for financial health, ensuring that the finances within the building are being maintained by the homeowner association.
What happens, often, is that the process goes smoothly until the organization that manages the down payment assistance funds receives the file. The closing date can be extended time and time again, causing both the buyer and the seller to recalculate moving dates, moving trucks, packing, when to move funds around, whose home they will be sleeping at after the 3rd or 4th delay, and wondering if the seller is going to become so agitated with the entire process that they begin to Google search the term āsmall claims court.ā In a recent instance, the buyer was delayed about four times over the holidays and when the file was ready to close, they were informed that the settlement had to be the following day. So, it was a situation of delay, delay, delay, delay, delay, delay, delay, and do this NOW, which means a buyer must coordinate (for the maybe 3rd time) a day off of work and recalculate their entire schedule at the last second to accommodate an organization that seems to have made few efforts to stay in communication along the way.
These delays make the buyer less competitive to win an offer and can make a planned purchase fail due to the failure of the buyer to perform. Nobody wants to be told their house will sell and then must make alternative plans when they realize the contract is not going through, OR there will be a significant delay by up to one to three months.
How can we make this process more user friendly? If we could, developers might be more motivated to make affordable housing units available for more people, knowing that the process of selling a unit wonāt cause interminable delays and headaches for all parties involved. Buyers must be fully vetted financially before submitting an offer. Is there a way to fully vet the down payment assistance funds, that they arrive in escrow at the title company a week or two before settlement so that all parties can plan their lives accordingly?
Self-awareness as an organization is crucial for knowing where blind spots exist, how they can be looked at, and how a decent process can be improved to fulfill its own goal of helping buyers get into homeownership. Perhaps an exit interview or feedback form could be sent to each buyer after purchase and looked at for suggestions for improvement.
Joseph Hudson is a referral agent with Metro Referrals.Ā Reach him at 703-587-0597 orĀ [email protected].
Real Estate
Tips for those considering buying a home in the Caribbean
Weather, safety, infrastructure among concerns

I recently returned from cruising through the Caribbean, just in time to experience the last vestiges of a snowstorm and 15-degree weather, coupled with a plethora of angry people wearing red hats, absent-mindedly riding around in circles on the Metro. No matter ā I still have that post-vacation glow.
The Caribbean, a diverse region of 13 independent countries, 12 dependencies, and seven overseas territories, has long been a dream destination for travelers, retirees, and investors alike. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and relaxed lifestyle, it’s no wonder that many people are drawn to the idea of owning property in this tropical paradise.
Buying real estate in the Caribbean requires careful planning, research, and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that come with investing in a foreign market. Selecting the right island and community is a critical step in the buying process.
Consider such factors as:
- Accessibility: Proximity to major airports and ease of travel
- Infrastructure: Availability of roads, utilities, and amenities such as internet and streaming services
- Safety and security: Crime rates and political stability
- Climate and weather risks: Susceptibility to hurricanes and natural disasters
- Healthcare: Quality and availability of medical services
Property prices and inventory vary widely across the region. Each Caribbean nation has its own rules regarding foreign ownership of property. Some countries have relatively open markets where foreigners can buy land freely. Others, such as the Bahamas, require special permits for non-residents purchasing property above a certain value.
It is essential to work with a reputable local attorney to navigate the legal requirements, including landownership laws and restrictions, residency and citizenship options, property taxes and fees, and title searches and due diligence.
Some islands, like Barbados and the Cayman Islands, offer residency permits for property owners who meet specific financial criteria. These programs can provide tax benefits, visa-free travel, long-term residency rights, and in some cases, top-tier medical facilities, including private hospitals and specialized care centers.
Moreover, Antigua & Barbuda,Ā Dominica,Ā Grenada,Ā St. Kitts,Ā andĀ St. Lucia offer a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program for property buyers: In some cases, citizenship will grant you visa-free access to more than 150 countries. While the costs fluctuate depending on the country, the process can be completed in as little as 7-12 months.Ā
As you can imagine, there has been a surge of inquiries from the U.S. since last fall, so it would be wise to confirm the most recent amount and type of minimum investment required. You can find helpful information from the company La Vida atĀ goldenvisas.com.
Many buyers in the Caribbean look to generate income through vacation rentals or long-term leasing. Islands with strong tourism demand, such as Aruba, the Bahamas, and St. Lucia, offer excellent rental potential.
Working with a reputable property management company can help maximize rental income and ensure smooth operations; however, investors should consider seasonal fluctuations in tourism, property management costs, and local regulations on short-term rentals in determining their return on investment before committing to a purchase.
As in the U.S., buying property in the Caribbean comes with additional costs beyond the purchase price. These may include legal fees (typically 1-3% of the purchase price), stamp duties and transfer taxes that vary by country, real estate agent compensation, property insurance, and maintenance costs.
Financing can be a challenge for foreign buyers, as many Caribbean banks require substantial down payments or have stringent lending criteria. Some investors choose to secure financing from their home country or pay in cash.
Nonetheless, expatriates living in the Caribbean often benefit from a lower cost of living, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle. Many islands have well-established expat communities, making it easier to adjust to life abroad. As you begin your journey, it is recommended that you secure health insurance that covers medical treatment in both the Caribbean and your home country.
To successfully purchase property in the Caribbean, research and choose your preferred island based on your budget, lifestyle, and investment goals. Work with a local real estate agent who understands the market and legal requirements and, if applicable, speaks the appropriate language. Hire an attorney to conduct a title search, review contracts, and ensure compliance with local laws. Negotiate the purchase price and sign a sales agreement. Secure financing (if needed) and transfer funds.
Once you have completed additional legal requirements such as obtaining permits, paying taxes, and registering the property, you might consider rental or management options if you are not living there full-time.
But if the Caribbean is to be your home away from home for at least a few years, turn off the news, stick an umbrella in your favorite frothy adult beverage, and lean into island living.
Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her via DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.Ā
Advice
My partner wonāt come out to her parents
How to cope when you love someone whoās closeted

Dear Michael:
Iām having a terrible communication problem with my girlfriend. She just isnāt hearing me on some issues that mean a lot.
Nicki doesnāt get why itās important for me that we be out to her parents as a couple. Iāve explained my position over and over. Iām not willing to hide or pretend, and doing so makes things way more complicated down the road, if we stay together. Eventually weād have to explain our lies. Itās crazy to imagine hiding our marriage, or hiding children. More than crazy!
How can you be believable about anything if you arenāt honest about who you are and the nature of your relationship?
Nickiās whole response boils down to her being afraid that her parents will reject her (theyāre deeply religious, conservative). Me trying to explain to her that you canāt let fear run your life just doesnāt penetrate her brain.
As a result I havenāt met her parents yet, and our relationship is a lot more tentative than I would like it to be at this point.
Besides this ābiggie,ā there is one other issue that she just doesnāt get, no matter how much I explain my position: She makes fun of me a lot ā especially when weāre out with friends. About all sorts of things. How I dress (too stereotypically lesbian in her view); my interests (same criticism); my supposed inability to cook; my bad driving; my loving my dog too much. And more.
Nicki either says sheās not making fun of me, or says that sheās just kidding around and I am too serious. The more I ask her to stop, the more she tells me to ālighten up.ā She just isnāt hearing me.
Aside from communication issues around these big topics, we have an otherwise great relationship that I would like to last. However, this stuff isnāt acceptable.
What more can I do to communicate more clearly in a way that she will hear me?
Michael replies:
It sounds like youāre both making your points loud and clear. You criticize Nicki, and Nicki criticizes you.
Communication means that you say what you want to say to your partner, and you listen when she wants to share something. It does not mean that you get your partner to agree with you or behave as you want her to.
Even if you think that Nickiās not being out to her parents is crazy, she doesnāt have to come out to them.
Is Nicki open to the idea of eventually coming out to her parents? Mustering the courage to do so can be a slow process. If Nicki would like to work on this, and you are willing to wait, then stay in the relationship and work on being patient and accepting. But if this is a deal breaker issue now, Nicki is not for you.
While you can continue to try to change Nicki, this tactic doesnāt seem to be getting you anywhere, except annoyed. You have a lot of power over your own behavior, but little power over how your partner behaves. In other words, you get to be with the person you are with; not a hypothetical āimprovedā version that better suits you.
With regard to the teasing issue: I believe that if someone you care about tells you that you are hurting them, itās a good idea to listen. I donāt get why Nicki wants to keep behaving toward you in ways that you find painful. Could it be that all of this is linked?
Perhaps Nicki is hurt or annoyed or angry that you wonāt accept her not being out to her parents; and is getting back at you for your ongoing pestering by torturing you with criticisms and insults. Or, perhaps your hurt, annoyance, and anger over Nickiās ongoing teasing is leading you to retaliate by continually criticizing her closeted status.
Think of your relationship as a system: When one part of a system changes, it impacts the entire system. If either one of you changes your behavior for the better, you will likely have a positive impact on your relationship. Do you want to make the first move, and see what happens?
You might also begin an ongoing discussion with Nicki about the benefits of being respectful toward each other, listening to each other, striving to understand each otherās points of view, and tolerating that you sometimes see both minor and important issues differently.
But only start that discussion if it makes sense to you that having a decent relationship depends on your continually striving to do these things.
Michael Radkowsky, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who works with couples and individuals in D.C. He can be found online atĀ michaelradkowsky.com. All identifying information has been changed for reasons of confidentiality. Have a question? Send it toĀ [email protected].
-
National4 days ago
Board members for LGBTQ foreign affairs group resign amid Trump attacks
-
Opinions3 days ago
My existence as an intersex American was finally acknowledged, then erased four days later
-
Opinions1 day ago
Iām nervous about D.C.ās ability to stage WorldPride
-
Argentina4 days ago
Millions march against Javier Milei in Argentina