Karen Olmstead, Realtor Coldwell Banker

04/06/2026

✨ Candlewood is Under Contract! ✨

I’m thrilled to share that Candlewood is officially under contract! The owners trusted my advice, and together—as a team—we made it happen.

Now, they’re ready to move forward and make an offer on their next home, working with a lender I referred who is also part of our amazing team. 🤝

These clients have sold with me, bought with me, and returned again as loyal clients to sell this home as they begin the exciting journey of purchasing their retirement property in another state. Their trust means so much. 💙

Whether buying, selling, or renting here in Virginia, I’m here to help every step of the way. Our local market can be challenging, but I’m always up for the challenge—and I love helping my clients succeed!

🏡 If you’re ready to start your real estate journey, let’s talk!

Coldwell Banker Realty - Alexandria Office Karen Olmstead Karen Ogden Olmstead

04/01/2026

Flowers = Listing time...2407 Candlewood Dr Alexandria and there will be 2 Opens this weekend.

01/19/2026

🏡 Rental Open House Time!

Doing what I can to get this one rented — and honestly, these rentals aren’t always the comfiest if vacant 😅

But this top-floor condo in Alexandria is a total gem! 🌳 It backs right up to some lovely trees, giving you tons of privacy and a peaceful vibe while sitting on the deck.

And yes… thank goodness the TV is included — because sitting on the floor during these showings isn’t too bad when you’ve got something to watch 😄

Come by, check it out, and see if this could be your next cozy spot in Alexandria! 🏠✨

https://www.homes.com/property/206-skyhill-road-8-alexandria-va-unit-8/g80st3j6rdxhm/




Coldwell Banker Realty - Alexandria Office

01/15/2026

Must be listing time.....

01/13/2026

What a year 2025 turned out to be! 🏡

To my incredible clients, customers, friends, and family — thank you. Your support means the world to me. This past year wasn’t easy for anyone in real estate — it demanded resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning. But as I always say, real estate is a lifelong classroom. Every day, I learn and relearn something new.

Despite the challenges (and the infamous ankle saga that slowed me down for a bit 🦶), I’m proud to have continued as a top producer within my company. I also achieved two big milestones: earning my Associate Broker’s License and Principal Broker’s License for my property management business.

As we approach what I like to call the PCS season (or “spring market” for my non-military friends), I’m so grateful to have supported so many military families this year. Partnering with Lori Andrew, my go-to lender and friend/military spouse, we hosted a Realtor workshop on the latest VA updates, shared stories, and continued our mission to serve those who serve. 🇺🇸

The video below is a glimpse of some of the properties I listed this year — it doesn’t include my amazing buyers and renters, but I’m equally thankful for all of you.

I’ll continue to serve on an NVAR committee, volunteer in the community (yes, Ms. Claus will return next winter! 🎅❤️), and support my fellow agents as we all keep doing our best.

Here’s to growth, grit, and gratitude in 2026! ✨

Planning to move in 2026? Let's start planning your move now

Karen Ogden Olmstead Karen Olmstead Coldwell Banker Realty - Alexandria Office

12/02/2025

🌟 **It’s Giving Tuesday!** 🌟

Each year, I choose a cause close to my heart to support. In the past, I’ve given to nonprofits focused on PANDAS, veterans, and military families. This year, I’m highlighting something I live and breathe every day: housing.

Everyone deserves a safe place to call home—but for many, that’s not easy. In my work, I often help clients/customers navigate housing challenges, sometimes partnering with organizations to make it happen.

This year, I’m supporting the **Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights**, where my amazing niece Kayla works as a staff attorney on the Children’s Defense Team. She advocates for kids in tough situations—many facing housing instability. Right now, they’re raising funds to cover rental application fees, security deposits, and even moving vans for families in need.

As their website says:

“Black and brown children are the most likely to experience housing instability, and that instability negatively affects their court cases and outcomes.”

Kayla loves her work and has seen firsthand how stable housing is the cornerstone of case plan success. While Louisiana is outside my real estate market, the need is universal—kids everywhere deserve a safe place to sleep.

💙 Frank and I will be supporting them this Giving Tuesday, and if you’d like to join us, click the link below to donate or learn more about their incredible work.
👉 https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/uZ3JCoAW9zSxzVMM0fViGFppK4j?domain=laccr.networkforgood.com

**the board will match online gifts until 12PM tuesday**

If you prefer to give locally, I’d love to share other charities in need—just reach out!

Let’s make a difference together. 🏠✨


Karen Olmstead Opsec O'lmstead ogden Olmstead Coldwell Banker Realty - Alexandria Office Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC

Join me and help make a difference. Please give today. At the Louisiana Center for Children's Rights, we go to the mat for our kids every day -- in the courtroom, the classroom, and in the community. Sometimes what stands between our kids and safe and stable housing are costs that can feel insurmoun...

11/23/2025

Traveled to Richmond today to check out a property for longtime friends & clients 🏡💛
They’re looking at a condo for their daughter, and sure… I could have referred it out. But I didn’t.

Why?
Because I wanted to make sure she got my level of care, and I wanted to teach her what to look for in the buying process—plus how to take care of her first home 🧠🔑✨

Submitted the offer right from the car 🚗💨
Now we need a prayer or two because it’s a competitive one 🙏🤞💥

Huge shoutout to my amazing husband who drove me down and made it a fun little adventure ❤️

We even snagged an awesome brunch at Continental 🥞🍳—thank you, Resy perks 🙌😎


Opsec O'lmstead Karen Ogden Olmstead Karen Olmstead

11/22/2025

**Exciting News!**
I’m honored to share that I’ve again been appointed to serve on the **Professional and Ethics Advisory Group** for the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors® (NVAR) in 2026!

This opportunity means so much to me because it’s about shaping the future of our industry—upholding integrity, fostering trust, and supporting our members’ success. I’m grateful to the NVAR Leadership Team and Board of Directors for this appointment and for the chance to contribute to delivering exceptional value, driving innovation, and making a positive impact.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way—I’m excited to continue to serve and give back to the real estate community that has given me so much!


olmstead
Coldwell Banker Realty - Alexandria Office

10/23/2025