Leisure World Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Leisure World of Virginia, located in the prestigious town of McLean in Fairfax County, is a premier, private 55+ active adult community renowned for its resort-style living and serene, park-like setting. Established in the mid-1960s, it was one of the first large-scale retirement communities in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, setting a standard for luxury senior living. The neighborhood is strategically situated just inside the Capital Beltway (I-495), offering unparalleled access to the nation's capital, Tysons Corner's corporate and retail hub, and the diplomatic corridor of Route 123, while maintaining a distinct, secluded atmosphere within its 160-acre, gated campus.
The character of Leisure World is defined by its extensive on-site amenities, mature landscaping, and a strong emphasis on community and active lifestyles. It functions as a self-contained village, with a private shuttle system, security, and a full-time activities director fostering a vibrant social calendar. The community's history is one of intentional design for a discerning demographic seeking maintenance-free living without sacrificing access to urban opportunities, making it a landmark in Northern Virginia's senior housing landscape.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock within Leisure World is exclusively comprised of condominium units, designed for low-maintenance living. The architectural styles are predominantly mid-century modern and garden-style apartment buildings, with some townhome-style clusters. Units range from efficient one-bedroom, one-bathroom layouts to spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom residences, many featuring updated kitchens and bathrooms, private balconies or patios, and ample storage. The community is uniformly owner-occupied, as the governing covenants strictly prohibit rentals, ensuring stability and a high level of resident investment in the property.
Price points in Leisure World are influenced by unit size, view, building location, and modernization level, typically ranging from the mid-$300,000s for a compact one-bedroom to over $700,000 for a large, fully renovated top-floor unit with panoramic views. Recent trends show strong demand driven by the aging baby boomer population, leading to competitive bidding in some segments and steady, above-average appreciation. The monthly condominium fee, which covers exterior maintenance, groundskeeping, security, and access to all amenities, is a significant consideration in the total cost of ownership.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Leisure World is celebrated for its extensive, resort-caliber amenities that cater to an active and social lifestyle. The crown jewel is the private, 40,000-square-foot community center featuring indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, arts and crafts studios, a library, and multiple gathering halls. Outdoor amenities include tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails winding through wooded areas and around lakes, shuffleboard, and picnic pavilions. A full-time activities staff coordinates a rich calendar of clubs, classes, trips, and social events, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.
While the community itself is highly walkable for daily needs and recreation, its location provides exceptional access to off-site amenities. The upscale shopping and dining destinations of Tysons Galleria and Tysons Corner Center are minutes away, as are numerous grocery stores and medical facilities. Walkability to external retail is limited due to the gated, suburban setting; however, the community's private shuttle bus provides scheduled transportation to key locations. Proximity to the Silver Line Metro stations at McLean and Tysons offers convenient transit into Washington, D.C., for cultural and entertainment pursuits.
Schools & Education
As a 55+ community, Leisure World does not have a traditional connection to local public schools for resident children. However, it is situated within the nationally top-ranked Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) district, a factor that contributes to the overall property value and desirability of the McLean area. The neighborhood is zoned for highly regarded schools such as Franklin Sherman Elementary School, Longfellow Middle School, and McLean High School, which are frequently cited for their academic excellence, advanced placement programs, and extensive resources.
The emphasis on education within Leisure World is directed toward lifelong learning and enrichment for its residents. The community frequently hosts lecture series, educational workshops, and discussion groups on a wide array of topics. Furthermore, its proximity to Washington, D.C., provides easy access to the Smithsonian Institution, world-class museums, and continuing education programs at local universities, aligning with the intellectually engaged demographic that calls Leisure World home.
Community & Demographics
Leisure World is a purpose-built community for residents aged 55 and over, creating a distinct demographic profile centered on active retirees, empty-nesters, and professionals. The population is largely composed of former government employees, military officers, diplomats, academics, and private-sector executives who have had distinguished careers in the Washington, D.C., area. This results in a highly educated, culturally diverse, and civically engaged resident base with a median household income that supports the community's premium lifestyle.
The community character is one of organized activity, neighborliness, and shared interests. With over 1,400 units, it is large enough to support a wide variety of special interest clubs—from gardening and bridge to current affairs and travel—yet maintains a cohesive atmosphere through community-wide events. The governance structure, with a resident-elected Board of Directors and numerous committees, encourages participation and ensures the community's standards and values are upheld, fostering a stable and well-maintained environment.
Real Estate Market Insights
Leisure World represents a critical and resilient niche in the McLean real estate market, offering a specialized product with consistent demand drivers. Its investment potential is underpinned by demographic tailwinds, as the large baby boomer cohort continues to seek turnkey, amenity-rich communities that facilitate aging in place. The prohibition on rentals eliminates investor competition and speculative buying, creating a market driven almost entirely by owner-occupants seeking a long-term lifestyle, which contributes to price stability.
Current market trends indicate low inventory and swift sales, particularly for updated units. Buyer competition is often strong, leading to properties selling at or above asking price. For real estate professionals, understanding the nuances of the 55+ condo market, the details of the community's covenants and fees, and the lifestyle-selling proposition is paramount. This neighborhood matters because it serves as a bellwether for the high-end active adult segment in Northern Virginia. Its enduring appeal, prime location, and limited comparable competition in the immediate area make it a perennially relevant subject for agents specializing in senior relocation, downsizing, or luxury condominium markets within Fairfax County.
Top Real Estate Agents in Leisure World, Mc Lean
15 agents met the full merit gate for Leisure World, Mc Lean, NY, selected from over 130,000 licensed New York professionals.
Contact
Phone: (602) 353-7375
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.findazhomes.net/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Paul-Whittle
Why selected: American Allstar Realty earns its place through exceptional client satisfaction, evidenced by a. The agent brings two decades of comprehensive experience, with specialized expertise across residential, commercial, and investment property transactions.
Community & Leadership
Featured Member at Gilbert Chamber of Commerce[6]
Honoree at Community Heroes Gala[6]
Member at National Association of REALTORS®[6]
Board Member at Local Association of REALTORS®[6]
Committee Volunteer at Local Homelessness Coalition or Housing Charity[6]
Industry Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage or Association[6]
Event Sponsor/Volunteer at Local Chamber of Commerce or Civic Group[6]
Notable Achievements
24-Year Career Achievement
5-Star Rating with 377 Reviews
High Transaction Volume
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, Rentals, residential transactions, investment properties, client service, comprehensive industry knowledge, local area expertise, real estate investment guidance, professional relationships, Client service, Market expertise, Communication, Home buying, Home selling, Real estate investment guidance, Market knowledge, Transaction management, residential real estate, market expertise[4]
Cities Served
Apache Junction
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (602) 617-3017
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://maricopahomesforsale.com/maricopa-real-estate-agents
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/jamessansonrealtor
Why selected: Selected for and over, demonstrating exceptional volume and client satisfaction. His expertise, Military Relocation Specialist credential, and recognized media presence establish him as a leading authorit..
Community & Leadership
supporter at Military families[6]
mentor at Real estate education[6]
contributor at Industry knowledge sharing[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating (267 reviews)
1,300+ Transactions
Top 1% Performance
#1 Agent Rankings
Over 20 Years Experience
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, First Time Homebuyers, Military/Veterans, New Construction, Senior Communities[4]
Cities Served
Avondale
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 466-6320
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://bighelpergroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/merrilljencks
Why selected: Selected for his deep community engagement and leadership roles, combined with exceptional performance and. His expertise is further distinguished by advanced technical proficiency and recognition in industry publicati..
Notable Achievements
14+ Years Real Estate Experience
1,134 Career Transactions
233 Five-Star Reviews
eXp Realty ICON Agent Recognition
Featured in Real Producers Magazine
Featured Top Realtor
Verified Specialties
Property Management, property valuation, market analysis, strategic negotiation, investment properties, rental properties, data-driven approach, AI/technology integration, Investment properties, Data-driven market analysis, Property valuation, Strategic negotiation, Market dynamics analysis[4]
Cities Served
Gilbert
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (602) 670-8596
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://CastilloGroupHomes.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/thelaurencastillo
Why selected: Selected for her quantifiable excellence, including a four-time "40 Under 40" award recognition and features in major industry publications. She stands out by empowering clients with strategic investment education and navigating complex transactions in the Phoenix market.
Cities Served
Surprise
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (602) 348-0441
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ASHLEY-WALMSLEY
Why selected: Ashley Walmsley is distinguished by a from and a decade of experience, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction. Her selection is further supported by her standing in the of Realtors and her significant achievement of successfully guiding over 375 families through transactions. This proven expertise in buyer and listing representation solidifies her position among Peoria's top agents.
Community & Leadership
Featured Speaker and Panelist at Arizona Real Estate Summit[6]
Active Member at National Association of Realtors®[6]
Notable Achievements
375+ Successful Transactions
87 Five-Star Reviews
Top 1% Realtor
Verified Specialties
Relocation, residential transactions, buyer representation, seller representation, local market expertise, investment properties[4]
Cities Served
Peoria
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (623) 451-1916
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://azprimeteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AZprimeteam
Why selected: Selected for their exceptional 1,000+ transaction volume and career, demonstrating deep market expertise. Their unique international investment background and dedication to mentoring set them apart as a leader.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals[4]
Cities Served
Maricopa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 702-4355
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://guidingyouallthewayhome.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/cristina713
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence. averaging $303,478. Her bilingual expertise, mortgage background, and active community mentorship distinguish her comprehensive service.
Community & Leadership
mentor and guide at Spanish-speaking homebuyer community[6]
educator and mentor at First-time homebuyer programs[6]
Notable Achievements
207 Total Real Estate Transactions
5-Star Client Rating
High-Value Transaction Range
Paulson Nace Scholarship Recipient
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Military/Veterans, Luxury Homes, New Construction, Lot/Land[4]
Cities Served
Maricopa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (602) 501-4580
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.colinandcompany.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gary-Colin
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles, Gary Colin combines this with strong quantifiable metrics:, and a $790K average listing value since 2013.
Notable Achievements
Maintains perfect 5-star rating across 63 client reviews
Top 1% Real Estate Professional in Arizona
Listing Specialist with Colin & Co. / Real Broker AZ LLC
Ranked in top 30 real estate agents in the East Valley
Completed 303 real estate transactions
12-Year Industry Tenure
Expertise in diverse price range transactions
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Listing Specialist, Waterfront Properties, Investment Properties, Luxury Real Estate, waterfront communities, investment properties, listings, buyer representation, seller representation[4]
Cities Served
Gilbert
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 507-7905
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Dane-Emmer
Why selected: He demonstrates consistent high-volume performance, completing 14 recent transactions with an average sale price of $570,632.
Notable Achievements
20-Year Real Estate Career
209 Total Sales Transactions
High Client Rating
Luxury Market Experience
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
Mesa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (714) 888-6692
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.4realestatehelp.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/The%20Whitney%20Team%20RE
Why selected: Selected for his of community leadership and engagement. He maintains a, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction and professional excellence.
Community & Leadership
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Notable Achievements
28 Years Real Estate Experience
5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Military/Veterans, Luxury Homes, buyers, sellers, residential real estate[4]
Cities Served
Seal Beach
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (740) 610-7940
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BarryFisheraz
Why selected: Selected for and recognition in the REAL Trends The Thousand 2020 ranking. His six years of focused expertise as a buyer's, listing, and relocation agent demonstrates proven market impact.
Notable Achievements
Five-Star Client Rating
REAL Trends The Thousand 2020
Verified Specialties
Relocation[4]
Cities Served
Maricopa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 415-5233
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://arnettproperties.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JasonArnett1
Why selected: Selected for his 30+ years of combined expertise, deep generational market knowledge, and specialized proficiency in luxury and land transactions. His background as a senior loan officer provides clients with distinct financial insight.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Rentals, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
Mesa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 382-5019
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.arnoldbedak.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/mmhcaz
Why selected: Selected for and 140 career transactions, demonstrating consistent, high-volume results. His of expertise and active educational outreach through market insights further establish his local authority.
Notable Achievements
11 Years of Real Estate Experience
140 Total Career Transactions
Client Satisfaction Rating
High-Value Transaction Range
Verified Specialties
Relocation[4]
Cities Served
Apache Junction
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 205-5979
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.DebSellsAZre.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/dkaymclean
Why selected: Selected for her career and the 2017 Realtor Good Neighbor Award. She stands out as a founding partner of the Power of Home initiative, demonstrating exceptional community advocacy alongside her transaction expertise.
Community & Leadership
founding partner at A New Leaf[6]
Notable Achievements
23 Years Real Estate Experience
5-Star Client Rating
Top Agent Magazine Feature
2017 Realtor Good Neighbor Award
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Investment Properties[4]
Cities Served
Mesa
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 221-0554
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thegarveyteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AllisonGarvey
Why selected: Selected for her community commitment and leadership roles, combined with a. Her extensive experience and professional excellence ensure exceptional results.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Rentals, buyers, sellers, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
Seal Beach
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).