While touring the Old Town area, passers-by will not be surprised to see two rows of traditional brick townhouses standing behind a four-story white Victorian mansion at 900 North Washington St.

They may be surprised to realize that each row of townhouses is actually one three-story condo elevator building with an elegant lobby and a rooftop deck, in a 57-unit community that is currently under construction. The structures are carefully designed to convey the historical illusion, including expansive bay windows in the central section.

At $395,000, the one-bedroom, 1.5-bath unit meets the August median housing price in Northern Virginia. It also seems a natural choice for first-time homebuyers seeking the $8,000 tax credit that expires December 1. It should be within their budget if they have reached the maximum family income of $170,000. In addition, two-bedroom, two-bath homes are available at $525,000.  

Both choices will win another tax credit, too. Geothermal heating and air conditioning earns each unit a federal tax break of $7,000 or more. That energy system is only one of the environmental advantages that inspired the community slogan, Luxury with a conscience.

That environmental conscience is seen throughout the home. Dual flush toilets reduce water usage. Recycled lumber was used in the construction. Each unit is graced by Brazilian cherry hardwood floors from groves protected by their countrys strict conservation laws.

The luxury part is evident, too. Located beside the lobby, the elevator rises to the upper floors. The one-bedroom units greet visitors with a hardwood hallway facing the living area and its expansive bay window beneath crown molding. Hardwood floors continue through the living room and adjoining kitchen, on the opposite side of the pass-through.

The kitchen boasts a Subzero refrigerator, Kitchenaid appliances, quartz countertops and maple cabinets. Standing off the front hallway, the powder room includes dual flush toilet and a pedestal sink.

Next to the living room, the master bedroom also provides a bay window, crown molding and a walk-in closet. The adjoining master bath boasts marble counters and subway tiles, including the tub surround plus a separate glass-enclosed shower. The water-saving dual flush toilet makes this luxury bath yet another example of luxury with a conscience.

AT A GLANCE:

Location: Island Creek in Franconia

Price: $414,950 (may also be rented at $2,100 per month with a minimum one-year lease and no pets)

Taxes: $3,571

Call: Cindy Schneider, Tom&Cindy at Long & Foster, 703-822-0207

Style: Townhouse

Built: 1996

Square Footage: 2,022

Bedrooms: 3

Baths: 2 full, 2 half

Stories: 3

Fireplace: 1

Parking: Two assigned on-street spaces

Amenities: Community clubhouse, swimming pool, ball courts, walking path and tot lots.

Public Schools: Island Creek Elementary, Hayfield Middle and High