Falls Church VA Real Estate & Homes for Sale

Exceptional opportunity for Skyline Square two bedroom, one and half bath Bailey model on the 18th floor with marvelous views all the way to the National Cathedral!!! Wonderfully loved and enjoyed for many years by recent owner. Now ready to be updated and renovated. Large living room and adjoining dining area open onto 20-foot balcony overlooking the pool and skyline. Kitchen includes built-in eating space and tons of cabinetry. Sizable primary bedroom with private tub bath and large walk-in closet. Secondary bedroom ideal for at home office or guest quarters. Convenient powder room nearby. Full size washer and dryer in the unit. All utilities except electricity included in condo fee. Skyline Square, a well-managed luxury condominium, offers a wide range of amenities: 24/7 security, manned 24 hour front desk, outdoor pool, party room, exercise room, sauna rooms, game room and library. A maintenance program is available offering many useful, convenient and affordable services to include help with HVAC, plumbing and electric. Fantastic location with easy access to Shirlington, Pentagon City, Old Town, Reagan National Airport, West Alexandria Gateway and Baileyâs Crossroads with numerous retail and dining options. The excellent location results in a short commute via I395, Route 7 and Columbia Pike plus Metro bus to multiple Metro stations. Two deeded parking spaces. Property is being sold âAs Is, Where Is with no warranties, representations or guaranteesâ

Welcome to 218 James Thurber Ct in the heart of Falls Church City. This impeccably maintained residence offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and classic appeal. This quiet cul-de-sac community has only 18 homes and offers ultimate charm and convenience, all with NO HOA! This end-unit townhome has several unique features that make it one of a kind even within this small enclave of homes. How about 4 bedrooms not just 3 and 3.5 bathrooms not just 2.5 bathrooms to start?! How about an extra large, gated backyard taking advantage of the end unit and location at the end of the street? You will be impressed by the paver driveway (room for two cars) and the gorgeous hardscape that surrounds the lush landscaping leading to a covered alcove entryway (helps keep the Amazon deliveries dry!) The entry-level (bottom) of this home features a family room, kitchen (so you donât need to haul groceries upstairs), dining area, and powder room. The kitchen opens to the den on one side and to the backyard on the other side, allowing friends and family to gather while food prep is underway. Donât forget the heated limestone floors in the kitchen and dining room! Double French doors in the front of the den and a side yard door bring in lots of natural light and outdoor seating extends the den to the front yard. Plenty of storage is available in the free-standing shed. The main (middle level) has the primary suite complete with a brand-new walk-in closet, freshly upgraded bathroom, and balcony with sliding glass door overlooking the backyard. Imagine enjoying your first cup of coffee on your private balcony! The other half of the main level is a large townhouse-wide living room with a fireplace and flanking bookshelves. The top level has 3 more generously sized bedrooms, including a large bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. The hall bathroom and laundry area finish off this floor. The stairwell skylight and bathroom skylight keep the upper level bright! All appliances were replaced over the last 6 years and details regarding the ages of HVAC, water heater, windows, and roof are at the house. Professional photos uploaded on May 9and we go active on May 17. The location can't be beat with easy access to downtown Falls Church. Walk to the Saturday Farmer's Market, Harris Teeter, State Theatre, Northside Social, and endless restaurants up and down Broad St. Open Houses: Thursday, May 16 from 5:30-7:30, Friday, May 17 from 5:30 â 7:30 and on Saturday/Sunday, May 18-19 1- 3 PM

2 Bedroom apartment situated on a 1,288 SQFTs, setback on South George Mason Drive. Sold As-Is. Assumed to be occupied, no showings. A deposit of $36,000 due from buyer once offer is accepted. Must close by June 28, 2024. All offers must be made through our platform.

LAKE BARCROFT - Charming Split-Level with Winter Lake Views, Backs to Parkland! This light-filled 4BR/2.5BA home boasts large windows and gleaming hardwood floors on the main and upper levels. The main level features a spacious living room with a bay window, updated kitchen with granite and stainless steel appliances, a separate dining room, and a cozy sun room with fireplace overlooking the private wooded backyard. The upper levels offer 4 bedrooms and 2 updated baths including an expansive primary bedroom with multiple closets and a wall of windows offering gorgeous views! The lower levels offer new flooring and include a family room with a fireplace, half bath, recreation room, bonus room, laundry, and storage galore. The almost one-third acre lot features mature trees and backs to wooded parkland! Lake Barcroft beaches are just blocks away. Lake Barcroft offers loads of community activities and 5 sandy beaches for swimming, boating, and fishing! Enjoy easy access to Rt 50/495/66, DC, Arlington, and Tysons. This is your chance to start living the lake life -- inside the Beltway!

Fully furnished model home now for sale! This stunning 3 BR, 3.5 BA townhome with 2-car garage and rooftop terrace and rear deck with tons of upgrades will be ready for 3rd quarter move-in! Walk to tons of retail in the nearly sold out community of Graham Park!

Welcome to 6001 Arlington Blvd #508-- a large 785 SQFT, sun-filled condo in the desirable Woodlake Towers community! This 1 bed/1 bath unit features a large living room, separate dining room, kitchen, private balcony, and ample storage/closets! Bonus features of this unit include FRESH paint & NEW carpet! Condo fee includes ALL utilities! Don't forget to check out the pool and gym!

Welcome to your future home! This stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome boasts a perfect blend of modern elegance and cozy comfort across its two stories. Recently renovated to the highest standards, revel in the fresh allure of new flooring, a new hardwood oak staircase, and freshly painted walls that greet you upon entry. Discover a chef's dream kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line stainless steel Samsung appliances, sleek new cabinets, and exquisite granite countertops complemented by dazzling backsplash tiles. Illuminate your culinary adventures with new recessed lighting while enjoying the gentle breeze from newly installed ceiling fans. Both bathrooms have been meticulously maintained, ensuring a spa-like retreat for relaxation. Outside, the charm continues with a meticulously maintained front yard and a backyard patio, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding in your private oasis. Don't miss the chance to call this meticulously upgraded townhome yours!

Welcome to this beautiful three bedroom, two-level rancher style home located in Falls Church near Seven Corners on a lush half acre lot featuring beautiful hardwood flooring throughout the main level. Nicely renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, gas cooktop with an oven blow, dishwasher and side by side refrigerator. Plenty of cabinet space awaits you with this eat-in kitchen that features a lovely side sunroom located off of the kitchen. Spacious formal living room area with a cozy wood burning fireplace (as-is). The main level features a primary suite with an updated primary bathroom and two secondary bedrooms and a hallway full bathroom. Bring your dreams to life with your imagination to plan out the lower level to make it your very own finished space. It features a full bathroom, washer and dryer with a laundry sink. Plenty of open space to work with and an unfinished portion for storage. Enjoy this convenient location with easy commute to Arlington, Crystal City and DC! Close to several shopping centers, dining and entertainment. Don't miss out on this excellent opportunity to make this home your own or potentially build your dream home on this beautiful, large half acre lot in a prime location!

**OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 5/19 2-4pm** Welcome to 2721 Oldewood Dr! This charming Farmhouse has undergone extensive expansion and renovation ⢠Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the newly paved circular driveway, adding a touch of elegance to the property. ⢠Stepping inside, the beauty of the home unfolds with gleaming hardwood floors that span the entirety of the interior. ⢠To the left, you'll find the inviting family room, perfect for gatherings and relaxation. ⢠To the right, the formal dining room and living room beckon, offering a blend of elegance and comfort. ⢠The recently renovated kitchen steals the show, boasting a central island, quartz countertops, stainless steel Cafe appliances, and a stylish glass tile backsplash, ideal for both cooking and entertaining. ⢠Discover two hidden treasures: a spacious walk-in pantry and a transformed bonus room, perfect for a bar area or watching movies or sports! ⢠On the main level, a convenient bedroom and full bathroom provide added flexibility. ⢠Ascend to the upper level, where five more bedrooms await, including a generous primary bedroom featuring a renovated en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. ⢠A renovated hallway bathroom and laundry room add to the convenience and comfort of the upper level. ⢠Stepping outside from the kitchen onto the freshly painted 675-square-foot deck, you're immediately greeted by an inviting space perfect for outdoor entertaining. ⢠Whether it's a morning cup of coffee or a sunset dinner with friends, this deck provides the ideal setting to soak in the surroundings. ⢠As you explore further, the spacious backyard unfolds, offering a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With plenty of shade and room to roam, it's a haven for relaxation and recreation alike. ⢠Nestled on an expansive half-acre property, this meticulously renovated farmhouse retreat invites you to embrace the opportunity to truly love where you live. From the charming details of the farmhouse design to the thoughtful updates throughout, every corner exudes warmth and comfort. ⢠And with a convenient storage shed, there's ample space to keep outdoor essentials organized and easily accessible. ⢠Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or a place to gather with loved ones, this property offers the perfect balance of serenity and functionality, making it an idyllic place to call home. â¢â¢â¢ Some recent updates include: Renovated Kitchen with "Cafe" Brand Appliances & Bosch Dishwasher, Electric Panel, HVAC, Doors throughout the House, Circular Asphalt Driveway, Tankless H2O Heater, Upper Level 2 Split Unit A/C ⢠LOVE where you live Welcome Home!

Step into this beautifully renovated two-floor unit featuring new flooring and windows throughout, complemented by brand new appliances including an oven and microwave. Fresh paint adorns every corner, extending even to the deck, while new door knobs and light fixtures add a touch of modern elegance. Both bathrooms boast new vanities, toilets, and mirrors, accompanied by updated faucets and fixtures throughout the home. Enjoy the convenience of attic storage space and relish the tranquil tree and stream view from the back porch. With two dedicated parking spots, including one permanent and one for visitors, plus the option for street parking, convenience meets comfort in this top-floor gem. Just around the corner from a park, tennis courts, mini golf, and a golf course. Ideally located near Metro, 495, the vibrant Mosaic district, and the allure of shopping and dining options, this residence also offers easy access to the Washington and Old Dominion Trail, making it an exceptional find.

"Discover the charm of this beautifully updated Cape Cod home nestled in the heart of Falls Church. The property features a spacious stamped concrete driveway with ample parking for up to four cars. Step inside and experience the warm, inviting atmosphere of the main level, which boasts a sun-drenched living room, a modern kitchen, and three generously sized bedrooms, each complemented by two well-appointed full baths. Venture outside to the serene, private backyardâan ideal haven for relaxation and hosting gatherings. The upper level includes two cozy bedrooms, offering ample space for family and guests. Additionally, the basement reveals two more bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a convenient laundry room. This home is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ready to create lasting memories."

**WELCOME TO THE BEST-SELLING ADDISON PLAN BUILT BY EVERGREENE HOMES IN PIMMIT HILLS** Projected delivery is April/May 2025. This Addison at base comes with over 5200 SF ON 3 LEVELS, 5 BR, and 4.5 BA total. This Addison is in the Lemon Rd/Kilmer/Marshall school district and minutes from the West Falls Church Metro station. The model is complete with the signature Platinum Finish Package, but the Diamond Finish Package is an option too. The home also includes a Modern Front elevation, voluminous 10ft ceilings on the main floor, Evergreeneâs Deluxe Kitchen with 42â Upper Cabinets, Dacor Appliances, dual wall oven, with slide-in range and six burners. Just off the kitchen is a morning room offering additional natural lighting as well as an informal dining area. It is still early enough in the process, you can still make selections on hardwood, countertops, cabinets, and optional rooms! The upper level features hardwood floor in the hallway, an Ownerâs Suite with 2 walk-in closets & a private ensuite ownerâs bathroom, and 3 additional bedrooms. Each of the 3 additional upper-level bedrooms has attached bathrooms, one with an ensuite bath and the other two bedrooms sharing a Buddy bath. The fully finished basement includes a media room, a large rec room, an exercise room, and an additional bedroom and bath. Create your dream home in this Addison capable of reaching 5300 SF! Love hosting? Add a wet bar! Need more bedrooms? Change the living room/study space into a main-level guest suite. ** You will love our new modern farmhouse front elevation, finished basement, and deck really perfect for any family. Call today to start building your Addison! ** LOCATION: This beautiful future home is located in the Pimmit Hills neighborhood, which is an amazing location in Fairfax County. The new owner will have easy access to major transportation routes/options like Interstate 495, Route 7, and Route 66, and the West Falls Church Metro Station. This makes commuting to nearby cities like Washington, D.C., Arlington, and Tysons convenient. The proximity to Tysons also provides a plethora of job opportunities, dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Residents of Pimmit Hills enjoy easy access to several parks and recreational facilities in the area. Lemon Road Park, West Gate Park, and Scott's Run Nature Preserve offer opportunities for numerous outdoor activities.

Sales Gallery Open by Appointment. The Oak is a new condominium community coming to the heart of the dynamic West Falls neighborhood this fall. Discover elevated residences and welcoming spaces inspired by nature and modern design. Inspiring homes feature a contemporary style with warm and sophisticated finishes complemented by natural elements, providing the perfect spaces for modern living. Thoughtfully designed one, two and three bedroom residences provide open layouts and an array of floor plans to suit your lifestyle. The Oakâs thoughtful amenities enhance the energy of a community inspired by its natural surroundings. The residentsâ lounge with ample seating and dining spaces are perfect for relaxing and socializing, while the fitness center overlooking the terrace provides light-filled spaces to elevate your wellness. Reside within a community where energy and connection fill every space. Expansive green spaces, lively shopping and dining destinations, and cultural and community events create opportunities to share in meaningful experiences. Tax assessments are estimated based on list price.

Sales Gallery Open by Appointment. The Oak is a new condominium community coming to the heart of the dynamic West Falls neighborhood this fall. Discover elevated residences and welcoming spaces inspired by nature and modern design. Inspiring homes feature a contemporary style with warm and sophisticated finishes complemented by natural elements, providing the perfect spaces for modern living. Thoughtfully designed one, two and three bedroom residences provide open layouts and an array of floor plans to suit your lifestyle. The Oakâs thoughtful amenities enhance the energy of a community inspired by its natural surroundings. The residentsâ lounge with ample seating and dining spaces are perfect for relaxing and socializing, while the fitness center overlooking the terrace provides light-filled spaces to elevate your wellness. Reside within a community where energy and connection fill every space. Expansive green spaces, lively shopping and dining destinations, and cultural and community events create opportunities to share in meaningful experiences. Tax assessments are estimated based on list price.

Sales Gallery Open by Appointment. The Oak is a new condominium community coming to the heart of the dynamic West Falls neighborhood this fall. Discover elevated residences and welcoming spaces inspired by nature and modern design. Inspiring homes feature a contemporary style with warm and sophisticated finishes complemented by natural elements, providing the perfect spaces for modern living. Thoughtfully designed one, two and three bedroom residences provide open layouts and an array of floor plans to suit your lifestyle. The Oakâs thoughtful amenities enhance the energy of a community inspired by its natural surroundings. The residentsâ lounge with ample seating and dining spaces are perfect for relaxing and socializing, while the fitness center overlooking the terrace provides light-filled spaces to elevate your wellness. Reside within a community where energy and connection fill every space. Expansive green spaces, lively shopping and dining destinations, and cultural and community events create opportunities to share in meaningful experiences. Tax assessments are estimated based on list price.

Sales Gallery Open by Appointment. The Oak is a new condominium community coming to the heart of the dynamic West Falls neighborhood this fall. Discover elevated residences and welcoming spaces inspired by nature and modern design. Inspiring homes feature a contemporary style with warm and sophisticated finishes complemented by natural elements, providing the perfect spaces for modern living. Thoughtfully designed one, two and three bedroom residences provide open layouts and an array of floor plans to suit your lifestyle. The Oakâs thoughtful amenities enhance the energy of a community inspired by its natural surroundings. The residentsâ lounge with ample seating and dining spaces are perfect for relaxing and socializing, while the fitness center overlooking the terrace provides light-filled spaces to elevate your wellness. Reside within a community where energy and connection fill every space. Expansive green spaces, lively shopping and dining destinations, and cultural and community events create opportunities to share in meaningful experiences. Tax assessments are estimated based on list price.

Sales Gallery Open by Appointment. The Oak is a new condominium community coming to the heart of the dynamic West Falls neighborhood this fall. Discover elevated residences and welcoming spaces inspired by nature and modern design. Inspiring homes feature a contemporary style with warm and sophisticated finishes complemented by natural elements, providing the perfect spaces for modern living. Thoughtfully designed one, two and three bedroom residences provide open layouts and an array of floor plans to suit your lifestyle. The Oakâs thoughtful amenities enhance the energy of a community inspired by its natural surroundings. The residentsâ lounge with ample seating and dining spaces are perfect for relaxing and socializing, while the fitness center overlooking the terrace provides light-filled spaces to elevate your wellness. Reside within a community where energy and connection fill every space. Expansive green spaces, lively shopping and dining destinations, and cultural and community events create opportunities to share in meaningful experiences. Tax assessments are estimated based on list price.

Step right into your new cozy nest at Savoy Park Condominium! This adorable 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom top-floor condo is the ultimate home in a prime location. The moment you step in, the large living room windows boasts plenty of natural light. The open-plan layout seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen, giving you a roomy and practical setup. Need a Zen zone? The enclosed sunroom is perfect for a home office, gym corner, or just kicking back. The inviting bedroom boasts large windows bringing in the natural light from the sunroom, creating a peaceful oasis to unwind and recharge after a hectic day. The adjacent bathroom comes complete with a modern vanity. Plus, enjoy the luxury of having your own washer/dryer right in your unit. Venture downstairs to plenty of storage in a secure area within the enclosed garage - with your parking spot conveniently close to the entrance. Savoy Park residents have access to shared amenities such as a fitness center and a pool area, perfect for socializing and relaxation. Schedule a viewing today, this condo wonât last long!

***Offer Deadline Tuesday 5PM*** Exquisite move-in ready custom built home in the sought after Churchill community. This home has 6 bedrooms, 6 full baths, 7,446 square feet and is sited on a .3 acre lot. Beautiful craftsmanship both inside and out, which boasts an array of sleek finishes throughout this bright open floor plan that provides more than enough space for entertaining family and friends. Welcoming two-story foyer that leads to formal living room and formal dining room. Spacious gourmet kitchen with a large center island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 6 burner stove, wall oven, built-in microwave, custom-tile backsplash, and LED under cabinet lighting. Located directly off the kitchen is a spacious breakfast room, secondary kitchen, and a family room with gas fireplace. The main level boasts an in-law bedroom suite with an en suite bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with frameless shower doors. Luxurious upper level owner's suite features a spa-like en suite bathroom, and sitting room. Upper level features four additional bedrooms, 2 en suite baths, a Jack and Jill bath, and convenient laundry room. Walk-out lower level features a spacious recreation room with a rough-in for a potential wet bar or kitchen, a media room, bonus room, and full bath. Outdoors features a well manicured backyard with a 3 car side load garage and plenty of parking space on the driveway. Close proximity to shops, restaurants, public transit and easy access to major roads. Nearby top rated Haycock, Longfellow and McLean pyramid.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, 5/18, 12pm - 2pm. Thoroughly Upgraded Rambler, located near everything. Contemporary open floor plan with a Chef's Gourment kitchen at the heart of the house overlooking the living and dining rooms. Kitchen has upgraded countertops, cabinetry, appliances, flooring, breakfast bar - walks out to expansive deck that was upgraded with composite decking and new railings. Upgraded LED recessed lighting. Gleaming original oak hardwood floors throughout have been refinished. Windows throughout have been recently upgraded to double-pane vinyl windows. From the entertaining deck enjoy the large 11,743 sq. ft. lot which is a nature lover's paradise with mature landscaping, trees, and manicured lawn - walk out back gate to the adjoining park. The lower level has been finished and offers an expansive recreation room with tile floor, built-in bookshelves, full bathroom, additional bedroom, and storage room with laundry area. Plenty of parking afforded by the attached 2-car carport and wide driveway. Other recent upgrades include: Roof, Electrical Wiring & Panel, Interior Doors & Hardware, Attic insulation. Ideal, convenient location, close to The Pentagon, Arlington, Reagan National Airport, Foreign Service Institute, Amazon HQ2.

Beautifully updated, 1 level condo living on the first floor, with an unbelievable view overlooking the lake! 2BR/1BA condo with large deck, recently updated and ready for you to move in! Plenty of parking with one assigned parking place. Like new kitchen, stainless steel appliances, butcher block counter tops. Beautiful laminate wood grain flooring throughout the unit and a wood burning fireplace in the living room. The deck can be accessed byway of the master bedroom or the living room. Updated bathroom. Community pool, tennis court, & dog run. Excellent location. Hurry, this one will not last long!

Discover this hidden gem nestled in a prime location. Boasting a charming brick exterior, this home sits on a generously sized lot with ample natural space for outdoor enjoyment, including a delightful deck. Meticulously maintained both inside and out, this residence offers easy access to the yard from both the upper and lower levels. Upstairs, you'll find three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, including a luxurious primary suite for ultimate privacy and comfort. The lower level presents endless possibilities for creativity, relaxation, exercise, or everyday living, with additional storage space and the convenience of a walk-out feature. Surprisingly spacious, this home maximizes every inch of its layout, ensuring no space is wasted. Take advantage of its proximity to McLean High School, as well as convenient access to the W&OD Bike Trail, West Falls Church Metro, and an array of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants. Experience the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience in this inviting abode.

Investor Attention!LOCATION LOCATION ! McLean/Longfellow/Haycock school pyramid! House has blueprint to build a 2M house. Open house will be May 12 Sunday 1-4 pm and May 19 Sunday 1-4 pm. Around house all 2M over house. Less than a mile to downtown Falls Church. Close to shops, restaurants, parks, and the W&OD Trail. Easy access to I-66, West Falls Church Metro, and I-495. . Schedule an appointment to view the house today. BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME HERE! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to rent a property in the highly sought-after Falls Church area. Positioned near the East and West Falls Church metro stations, with easy access to I-66, the Dulles Toll Road, north Arlington, and Washington, DC, this location offers unparalleled convenience. Set on a generous quarter-acre lot, this property is a dream come true for buyers looking to renovate or revitalize a home in a delightful subdivision. Surrounded by majestic trees, immaculate landscaping, and prestigious residences, the neighborhood exudes charm and elegance. Inside, the home welcomes you with a cozy living area adorned with stunning exposed brick. With three bedrooms and one-and-a-half baths, it provides comfortable living spaces. The timeless exterior design is enhanced by extensive back and side yards, providing ample room for entertaining or enjoying recreational activities. Situated in Fairfax County, Don't miss out on this exceptional rental opportunity.

Get ready to enjoy a perfect blend of style and comfort as you step into this amazing property. The living area features a stylish neutral paint scheme, making it easy to match any decor. The updated kitchen is a chef's dream, with top-notch stainless steel appliances and a chic backsplash. In the heart of the home, a cozy fireplace adds warmth and charm on chilly evenings. Outside, the welcoming deck is ideal for relaxing or dining al fresco. The fenced-in backyard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities and privacy. With fresh interior paint throughout, the home feels bright and airy. Plus, a deck in the backyard is perfect for hosting or simply enjoying the outdoors. This property combines comfort and style effortlessly, making it stand out in the market. Offering timeless elegance, it's a true gem for luxurious living. Come explore this wonderful property and see its amazing features for yourself.

Welcome to 5573 Seminary Rd. Unit 211. This darling 2nd floor unit features 1 bedroom, 1 bath in the heart of Seminary Rd. near shopping, Rt. 7, & 395. Open FP with lots of light, hardwood floors with ample closet space, private bedroom & bath and a quaint balcony with a garden view for your morning coffee. Located in the trifecta of Alexandria, Arlington, and DC - this unit is a commuter's dream. Just a few exits to DC and comes with 1 assigned garage space near the bldg entrance (for all your Target grabs) and a storage bin, for all your extras. Washer & Dryer in unit. Pool access is from bldg 5573 too! In addition to a community pool, Savoy Park features an exercise room, key card access, garage parking , on site mgmt, extra storage, visitor parking, and a clubhouse. Nearby conveniences include OneLife Fitness, District Taco, Target, and minutes to Shirlington. Don't miss this gem!