6240 Linway Terrace -- Chesterbrook -- $1,350,000

Listed by Exit Metro Realty

Stately Wayne Manor, Home of Batman? Well, fellow McLeanites, I showed this off-the-hook property to a relocation client from FreddieMac last week and everyone was swooning. The handsome stone work on the front elevation, the gracious floor plan--filled with surprises,bonus rooms, separate "wings" and georgeous interior finishes--made for an exciting, below-market experience; this bank-owned opportunity (the 2008 tax assessment is $2,239,120) speaks to the turbulence (and possibilities!) of the 2009 residential housing market. The McLean Secret Agent rarely makes this statement: It's a buy. 

Beautiful hardwoods, custom moldings in all the public rooms, a stylish Food Network-inspired kitchen are among the delights of the main level. 

The McLean Secret Agent is a foodaholic (as well as a workaholic), so I was high-fiving everyone when I spied the chic Four Seasons-style kitchen/sitting room off the Master Suite. Beat still my heart! And Carrie Bradshaw would flip over the closets!

And while we're talking about kitchens (yes, plural), the lower level features another kitchen for Redskins parties, post-Kennedy Center fetes and Sweet-16 celebrations for Baby Heather. Did I forget the custom library and the 3-car garage? 

But no house is perfect, and the McLean Secret Agent admits that the in-your-face setting on Linway Terrace is not for everyone. An awkward parking situation in a pipestem/alley (you'll see...) requires visitors to walk around to the front...but I'm being picky. 

This compelling value reeks of sophistication, style and endless possibilities for entertaining. The McLean Secret Agent is in love.

Have you ever bought a bank-owned property? Please share your feedback with the McLean Secret Agent.

(At time of posting, it's been on the market 164 days.)