Potomac Shores stands out as the rapidly expanding new home community within Prince William County, conveniently situated a mere 30 miles from Washington, D.C.
Nestled in Prince William County, Potomac Shores boasts its proximity to Quantico, which is less than 10 miles away, and provides military families with easy access. Additionally, it’s only a 40-minute drive from Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia, further enhancing its allure for military personnel.
Positioned at the heart of the region, this community enjoys exceptional connectivity. It’s just minutes away from major transportation arteries, including I-95 HOV lanes, Route 1, and other primary roadways, ensuring residents have convenient access to the broader metropolitan area.
Potomac Shores offers a unique blend of amenities, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty. In our Ultimate Guide to Potomac Shores, we’ll highlight what makes Potomac Shores an ideal place to call home.
Housing
Potomac Shores, as a whole, consists of 3,800 homes. The community offers a diverse array of housing options, catering to all tastes and preferences within one cohesive neighborhood. From award-winning single-family homes to contemporary townhomes and condos, and low-maintenance villas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for spacious detached homes, ideal for those who value comfort and space, or luxurious townhouses that blend sophistication with a sense of community, Potomac Shores delivers.
The two-level condos in Potomac Shores provide a unique twist on condominium living, offering the spaciousness of a townhouse while maintaining the convenience of condo living—a great choice for first-time buyers or those seeking contemporary, hassle-free living.
In the Riverbluff District, prospective buyers are presented with a choice: a multi-level townhome built by Pulte Homes or a townhome-style condo from Ryan Homes. While both options boast a townhome configuration, this decision offers more than just a style preference; it allows buyers to align their choice with their maintenance preferences. Living in the Riverbluff District also offers unparalleled convenience due to its central location, providing easy access to essential amenities like the planned VRE station and Marketplace, all just a short stroll away.
On the other hand, the Woods District neighborhood offers a different level of flexibility. Here, three different builders offer three unique home styles, allowing for countless combinations of options, finishes, and floorplans. Drees Homes’ Woods View offers incredible luxury villas that have as much space as some single family homes. Then there are the spacious detached homes from Pulte Homes in Woods Manor. Stanley Martin offers a variety of styles and models giving buyers the freedom to select a townhome or single-family home in Woods Overlook or Woods Grove.
The Woods District delivers a diverse range of choices within the broader Potomac Shores community. The tree-lined streets and cohesive architectural features create a distinct ambiance in this neighborhood.
Moving to the Fairways District, the first to be built in Potomac Shores, you’ll find a selection of single-family homes. These homes, constructed by NVHomes, Tidewater Homes, and Ryan Homes, offer something unique. Exclusive floorplans designed specifically for Potomac Shores set this neighborhood apart. Many of these floorplans cannot be found in other communities by these builders, providing residents with a one-of-a-kind living experience.
Schools
Potomac Shores takes pride in its commitment to providing convenient access to quality education. Within the community, you’ll find both elementary and middle schools, catering to families with school-age children.
Covington-Harper Elementary School, with a commendable rating of 7/10 on Great Schools, stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to academic excellence. It’s a place where young minds are nurtured and prepared for a bright future.
Covington-Harper Elementary School places a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Their dedicated faculty and staff work tirelessly to provide students with a solid foundation in core subjects such as mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies. The school embraces innovative teaching methods and technology to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. Interactive classrooms, educational software, and a forward-thinking curriculum help students thrive academically.
Beyond academics, Covington-Harper Elementary School offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities. These include clubs, sports teams, and artistic pursuits, allowing students to explore their interests and talents outside of the classroom.
Although Potomac Shores Middle currently holds a rating of 4/10, it’s crucial to note that Potomac Shores Middle School is a relatively new addition to the community, having opened its doors in 2021. This recent establishment holds promise for future improvements and aligns itself with the high standards set by Covington-Harper Elementary School.
It’s essential to view Potomac Shores Middle School’s rating in the context of its relative youth. As the school gains experience and resources, it may well enhance its educational offerings, making it an even more appealing option for families residing within the community.
The community is served by Potomac High School which is located outside of Potomac Shores. Like Potomac Shores middle school the rating of 4/10 on Great Schools is on the lower of the scale.
Amenities
Potomac Shores isn’t just about beautiful homes; it’s a community designed to offer a resort-like experience for its residents. It’s one of the many Pros of Living in Potomac Shores. Let’s explore the remarkable amenities that make everyday life here feel like a never-ending vacation:
The Shores Club: Your Social and Recreational Hub
The Shores Club is the beating heart of the Potomac Shores community, spanning an impressive 13,000 square feet. It’s not just a building; it’s a vibrant center where neighbors become friends and residents create lasting memories. Here’s a more detailed exploration of what The Shores Club has to offer:
Year-Round Enjoyment: The indoor-outdoor design of The Shores Club ensures that there’s always something exciting to do, whether it’s a sunny summer day or a chilly winter evening. This versatility makes it a true community gathering place throughout the year.
Community Building: Beyond its physical features, The Shores Club fosters a strong sense of community. It’s a place where neighbors come together for socializing, events, and shared experiences, creating bonds that enrich the lives of residents.
The Fitness Barn: Health and Wellness Center
For fitness enthusiasts, The Fitness Barn is nothing short of a treasure trove. Here’s a deeper look at what makes it a fitness haven:
Modern Gym Equipment: The Fitness Barn is equipped with state-of-the-art gym equipment, catering to both beginners and seasoned gym-goers. It’s a place where residents can pursue their health and fitness goals effectively.
Yoga and Movement Studio: The presence of a movement studio and yoga lawn offers a serene space for yoga enthusiasts and those interested in trying out new fitness classes. It promotes physical well-being and relaxation.
The Competition Pool: A Swimmer’s Dream
The eight-lane competition pool is more than just a place for laps; it’s a hub of community activity. Here’s a closer look:
Community Hotspot: The amphitheater-style viewing areas surrounding the competition pool make it perfect for swim meets and a great spot for residents to relax and enjoy sunny days by the water.
The Social Barn: For Leisure and Events
Imagine a cozy living room, but better – that’s The Social Barn. It’s a versatile space that offers residents various options for leisure and events. Here’s what it includes:
Community Gathering Place: The Social Barn is where residents gather for casual chats, cook-offs in the demonstration kitchen, or a refreshing splash in the family pool. It’s a hub of social activity that fosters a sense of belonging.
Sundeck, Cabanas, and Kids’ Pool: These features add to the vacation vibe, providing residents with opportunities to relax, soak up the sun, and ensure that everyone in the family, including children, has a great time.
Open-Air Gathering Spaces: Nature and Community Combined
The community garden and working greenhouse are not just for those with green thumbs; they provide opportunities for residents to engage with nature and try their hand at gardening. The expansive event lawn serves as an ideal venue for community events, from summer concerts to holiday celebrations.
Playgrounds and Parks: Endless Fun for Kids and Pets
Potomac Shores recognizes the importance of providing safe and fun spaces for children and pets. With multiple tot lots and parks, kids have plenty of options for play and exploration, while the pet-friendly environment ensures that furry family members have space to roam and play.
Hiking, Biking, and Walking Trails: Explore the Great Outdoors
The trail network within Potomac Shores is more than just a means of getting around; it’s an adventure in itself. Whether residents are avid hikers, cyclists, or simply enjoy strolls, these trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
The amenities in Potomac Shores go beyond mere facilities; they are experiences designed to bring people together, promote a healthy lifestyle, and offer a sense of community that’s hard to find anywhere else. From fitness to relaxation, social gatherings to quiet moments in nature, these amenities cater to all ages and interests, making life in Potomac Shores feel like a perpetual retreat.
Recreation
For outdoor enthusiasts, Potomac Shores offers a paradise of natural beauty and recreational opportunities:
Let’s dive deeper into the plethora of recreational opportunities that make Potomac Shores a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests:
The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course: A Golfer’s Haven
The crown jewel of Potomac Shores’ recreational offerings is the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. It’s not just any golf course; it’s a work of art meticulously designed by the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. Here’s why it’s a golfer’s paradise:
Challenging Layout: The course has earned accolades from Golfweek and Golf Digest, not only for its stunning beauty but also for its challenging layout. Golfers, whether seasoned or newcomers, find playing here to be an unforgettable experience that tests their skills.
Scenic Beauty: The course is not only a test of skill but also a feast for the eyes. With picturesque views and lush greenery, it provides a serene and visually stunning backdrop for a round of golf.
Ali Krieger Sports Complex: A Sports Enthusiast’s Playground
Named after the renowned soccer player Ali Krieger, this 30-acre sports complex is a hub of activity and a testament to Potomac Shores’ dedication to active living. Here’s what it offers:
Multiple Sports Facilities: The complex boasts multiple soccer fields, a softball field, and a children’s playground. This variety allows sports enthusiasts to indulge in their passion, and families to spend quality time together, all within the community.
Marina on the Potomac River: Boating and More
While it’s still under construction, the marina is poised to become a standout feature of Potomac Shores. Here’s why it’s eagerly anticipated:
Boating Access: Once open, it will offer boating access to the 405 miles of waterways of the Potomac River, making it a haven for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Residents will have the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the river right from their doorstep.
Trails Galore: Hiking, Biking, and Walking Adventures
Miles of scenic trails wind through the Potomac Shores community, offering a perfect setting for various outdoor activities:
Hiking and Biking: For those who love to explore the great outdoors, these trails provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and leisurely walks. They are not just pathways; they are invitations to connect with nature, breathe in the fresh air, and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature’s Playground
Potomac Shores is thoughtfully dotted with parks and green spaces, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the open air:
Picnics and Play: These spaces are ideal for family outings, picnics, playing fetch with your dog, or simply enjoying a quiet moment surrounded by nature.
In Potomac Shores, outdoor activities are not just pastimes; they’re a way of life. The community’s dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment ensures that residents have a plethora of options for outdoor fun. Whether you’re an avid golfer, a sports fan, a nature enthusiast, or just someone who loves to be outside, Potomac Shores offers an outdoor playground that is hard to match. It’s a place where recreation and the beauty of nature combine to create a lifestyle that residents cherish and enjoy year-round.
Transportation
Potomac Shores offers transportation options, but it’s important to note that public transportation is still developing. However, promising improvements are on the horizon:
Virginia Rail Express (VRE)
Potomac Shores is set to benefit from the addition of a new VRE station under construction in Prince William County, within the community.
Although construction faced delays, significant progress has been made, with construction commencing in the spring of 2023, and an expected opening in the fall of 2024.
The VRE station will significantly improve travel times for residents, offering a direct connection to major employment hubs in Alexandria and Washington, D.C.
Omnibus
The Omnibus is a local bus service that operates within Prince William County, including Potomac Shores.
It offers several routes that connect residential neighborhoods with shopping centers, schools, and other local destinations.
While it may not be the fastest way to commute, the Omnibus provides an affordable and convenient option for getting around within the county, serving as a valuable resource for residents’ transportation needs.
Express Buses
Prince William County operates several express bus routes that connect the county with major employment hubs, including the Pentagon, Crystal City, and downtown Washington, D.C. These express buses offer a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, providing a direct connection between park and ride lots in the county and various work locations.
For residents who work in these areas, these buses can significantly streamline their daily commute, offering an efficient alternative to driving.
Carpooling
To help reduce traffic congestion and promote more environmentally friendly commuting options, Prince William County supports carpooling and vanpooling initiatives.
Commuters can join existing carpools or vanpools or form their own through resources such as Commuter Connections or the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Rideshare program.
These initiatives encourage residents to share rides and reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road, contributing to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
Slugging
Slugging is a unique form of casual carpooling that originated in the D.C. metro area and has become popular in Prince William County.
Commuters wait in designated areas, or “slug lines,” and drivers who need additional passengers to use the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes pick them up.
This informal system offers an alternative for those looking to avoid traffic congestion and provides a unique and efficient way for residents to share rides during their commute.
Future Public Transportation Developments
There are ongoing discussions and plans to expand public transportation options in Prince William County, which could further enhance residents’ commuting options.
These plans may include potential extensions of the metro system and other improvements to the local transportation infrastructure.
While these developments may take time to materialize, they hold promise for providing additional transportation choices for residents in the future.
Cost of Living
While the community offers outstanding amenities and recreational opportunities, it’s essential to consider the cost of living. According to BestPlaces, Dumfries’ cost of living is 4.02% higher than the Virginia average and 25.8% higher than the national average. Here’s a breakdown:
Grocery (7.9% Higher): A slightly higher cost of groceries indicates that residents may pay a bit more for their food items compared to the Virginia average. However, it’s important to note that access to quality and diverse grocery stores may contribute to this figure.
Healthcare (4.1% Higher): Healthcare costs are marginally above the state average. This may reflect the availability of medical facilities and healthcare services within the Potomac Shores area, which can be a factor in the overall cost.
Housing (66.8% Higher): Housing costs in Dumfries are significantly higher compared to both the state and national averages. This is a key consideration for potential residents, as it may impact their budget significantly. The higher housing costs could be attributed to the desirable nature of the community and its amenities.
Transportation (12.8% Higher): Transportation costs in Dumfries are notably higher compared to the Virginia average. This might be due to the proximity of Potomac Shores to major employment hubs like Washington, D.C., which can lead to higher commuting expenses.
Miscellaneous (45.6% Higher): The miscellaneous category includes various expenses such as entertainment, dining out, and personal care. A 45.6% higher cost suggests that residents might allocate a larger portion of their budget to these discretionary spending categories, indicating a lifestyle with opportunities for leisure and entertainment.
Utilities (Same): Utilities in Dumfries are in line with the state average, which means residents can expect consistent and reasonable costs for essential services like electricity, water, and heating.
The Economic Policy Institute provides data on the annual cost of living for a family of two adults and two children in the county. This figure is just shy of $111,000.
Additional Fees
Homes within Potomac Shores fall under the jurisdiction of the Cherry Hill Community Development Authority (CDA), which imposes a unique tax assessment.
This distinctive tax is an annual obligation applicable to every property within Potomac Shores, extending for a period of thirty years from the initial development. The primary purpose of this tax is to provide funding for public improvements that enhance the overall quality of the community under the purview of the CDA.
The annual tax assessment in Potomac Shores varies depending on the property type, with amounts ranging from $850 to approximately $1800. It’s important to note that this assessment increases by 2% each year.
Property owners are responsible for fulfilling this tax obligation as long as they possess their homes, with a maximum duration of thirty years. In the event of a property changing ownership, the new homeowner assumes the responsibility of paying this tax for the remaining period of the thirty years.
In Conclusion
Potomac Shores offers a unique blend of education, amenities, recreation, and transportation options, making it an appealing community for families looking for a vibrant and connected lifestyle. Want to know more or take a tour? Just give me a call at 703-539-2053 or complete the Perfect Home Consultation form.
Let’s explore Potomac Shores together!
Quick tip for buyers: when visiting new home communities, remember signing in might mean you waive your right to agent representation for months.
