Chantily

Homes for sale in Chantilly, VA

Source: Zillow (1/22/2024)

A treasure trove of stunning nature views, vibrant cultural happenings, historic attractions, and sprawling real estate, Chantilly in Western Fairfax County, VA is a place worth considering for your next home in the Old Dominion. An affluent community, this census-designated place is also a Washington D.C. suburb and recognized by Niche.com as among the best places to raise a family in Virginia.

Read on to learn more about Chantilly, VA, from the lifestyle to the homes for sale in this gorgeous community.

The epitome of D.C. Suburbia, Chantilly beckons to those who desire a life that’s close to nature and yet, filled with all the modern conveniences needed for comfortable living. Taking in picture-perfect nature vistas just by looking out your windows, you almost forget that you’re near one of the busiest airports in the Washington-Baltimore Metropolitan Area – Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Overview

Chantilly is composed of roughly 12 square miles of rolling hills and valleys with several streams winding across it that flow toward the mighty Potomac River. The pockets of green in the area are lush with foliage that bursts in bold, beautiful colors with every passing of the seasons. This, combined with the sparse suburban feel of the community, makes it an ideal retreat from the urban hustle and bustle for its roughly 24,000 residents (as of the April 2020 Census).

As it is only around 30 miles west of Washington D.C., the relative proximity makes Chantilly, VA a popular residential area among those employed in the nation's capital who desire to come home to more relaxed surroundings. Residents traveling out of the state or the country need only to take a short 20-minute ride north via Route 28 to get to Dulles International Airport. If you’re a frequent flyer, purchasing one of the lovely homes for sale in Chantilly, VA is bound to keep your trips to and from the airport more convenient.

Chantilly’s location on the west flank of Fairfax County allows its residents to take advantage of the county’s superb school system, affluent lifestyle, and family-friendly activities. Fairfax County not only boasts the highest median household income in the United States but also offers a high quality of life to its residents.

Chantilly, VA’s rich history and development

Chantilly played many roles in Virginia’s and our nation’s history. It started in 1649 with the bestowing of over five million acres of land in Northern Virginia by King Charles II to one of his loyal men, Henry Fairfax, 4th Lord Fairfax. By 1708, the said land was inherited by Thomas Fairfax who became 6th Lord Fairfax. Thomas took the initiative to have this enormous parcel of land developed, including the area that would become Chantilly. The land was surveyed then eventually divided among colonists with the issuance of land grants.

Here are several milestones and key points on Chantilly’s growth and historical role in the molding of our nation.

• The town's name was inspired by the Château de Chantilly in France, reflecting the strong influence of European culture in Colonial Virginia.
• Chantilly made it to history books with the Battle of Chantilly during the Civil War. Fought on September 1, 1862, Union forces under Major General Philip Kearny clashed with Confederate troops led by General Robert E. Lee. The battle resulted in a tactical stalemate but had strategic implications for both sides. The Chantilly battlefield site – now named Ox Hill Battlefield Park – is now a historical landmark that reminds visitors and locals of the town’s significant role in the war.
• After the Civil War, Chantilly began to evolve from a rural community to a more suburban area. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the construction of schools, churches, and businesses, reflecting the town's growing population and economic development.

Chantilly, VA today

The 20th century brought significant changes to Chantilly. The construction of Dulles International Airport in the 1960s played a vital role in the town's economic growth. The airport not only stimulated the local economy but also initiated the transformation of Chantilly into a major transportation hub.

The establishment of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly in 2003 also helped put Chantilly on tourist maps.

The impressive development of Chantilly, VA over the years has turned it into one of the most sought-after areas in Fairfax County for homes for sale.

CHANTILLY, VA, REAL ESTATE

Market overview

Property values in Chantilly, VA are generally on a gentle upward slope, largely unfazed by economic downturns due to the market’s strong appeal among home buyers. The local market’s stability ensures that purchasing a house for sale in Chantilly, VA promises great returns on your investment, whether you plan to invest or reside here.

Property types

Chantilly’s real estate is quite established, with many homes built between 1970 and 1999. However, should you be interested in older homes, some of which were built in the 1940s, a number of them are still present in the community. More than 80% of homes here are owner-occupied while the rest are either rented out or vacant.

Single-family structures dominate the homes for sale in Chantilly, VA, many of which have three to four bedrooms and sit on spacious lots. Given Chantilly’s affluence, many of these single-family homes are luxury homes with special amenities such as swimming pools, home theaters, furnished decks or patios, and gourmet kitchens.

Chantilly also has a good selection of townhouses, condos, and apartments. These properties are particularly appealing to young professionals, first-time home buyers, and retirees looking to downgrade their homes for easier maintenance.

Popular architectural styles

Even after we have made it to the 21st century, Chantilly remains strongly linked to its glorious past, as manifested in the abundance of classic architectural styles among the homes here like Colonial, Colonial Revival, Victorian, Ranch, Tudor Revival, Cape Cod, and Craftsman. However, there’s a growing number of newer builds, the earliest having been constructed in 2000. The more recently built houses for sale in Chantilly, VA usually have Contemporary designs.

Top neighborhoods in Chantilly, VA

If you’re looking for Chantilly homes for sale, here are some neighborhoods to consider:

BROOKFIELD

Brookfield is the perfect neighborhood for those seeking tranquility without being too far from modern-day conveniences. Living here, you could take a dip in the community’s swimming pool, walk or bike along its scenic nature trails, or visit nearby shopping and dining options.

AVONLEA

This Chantilly neighborhood is known for its abundance of resplendent luxury homes on spacious lots. You’ll also find top-notch shared amenities like a community swimming pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center. It also has a wide selection of commercial establishments in its midst catering to residents’ essentials.

CABELLS MILLS / HAWTHORNE FOREST

Offering a perfect blend of quiet, suburban living and modern amenities, this neighborhood is composed of well-maintained homes in a mix of architectural styles interspersed with lush green spaces. It offers easy access to excellent schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for families to settle and grow in a friendly community. Low crime rates and high safety standards here offer residents peace of mind. Moreover, its proximity to Downtown Chantilly provides residents with a wider variety of options for shopping, dining, education, and recreation.

BLUE SPRING FARM

While not officially part of Chantilly, Blue Spring Farm has a close connection with the community as it lies on the southern border of the CPD. In fact, its residents use a Chantilly mailing address. The more relaxed vibe of this neighborhood is perfect for those who desire to savor a slower pace of life without being too far from modern conveniences.

POPLAR TREE ESTATES

Poplar Tree Estates is a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and amenities such as a community pool, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a clubhouse. It offers a variety of home styles, including Split-level, Colonial, and Contemporary. It's also conveniently located near top-rated schools, making it a great choice for families with school-age children.

WAVERLY CROSSING

Another family-friendly neighborhood in Chantilly with a strong sense of community, this neighborhood is made up of single-family homes with spacious yards where children and pets could safely play. It's also conveniently located near several parks, shopping centers, and top-rated schools.

LIVING IN CHANTILLY, VA

Nestled amid hills and woodlands and teeming with small-town charm, Chantilly is an ideal place to live, work, and play for many reasons. It combines the peace and quiet of suburban living with the conveniences of a city, a rich cultural history with modern amenities, and a strong sense of community with opportunities for personal growth.

Education

Chantilly, VA, is renowned for its robust educational system. The community is served by the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), one of the largest school districts in the country. Schools in this district consistently rank among the best in the nation. Chantilly High School is a perfect example of the excellence found in Chantilly’s education system. It is renowned for its highly competitive STEM programs and award-winning extracurricular activities, including its music and athletics programs.

For families looking for private education options, Chantilly also boasts several prestigious private schools like Pinnacle Academy and Monarch Christian Montessori. These institutions also boast top-quality academic curricula, complemented by a variety of extracurricular activities that students could participate in.

Chantilly is also near several highly ranked colleges and universities like Northern Virginia Community College, George Mason University, and other esteemed universities.

Healthcare

Chantilly has excellent healthcare facilities that contribute to the high quality of life enjoyed by its residents. The town's healthcare system is composed of state-of-the-art medical centers, specialized clinics, and well-established hospitals that provide a wide range of services, from general health consultations to emergency care and specialized treatments.

At the forefront of these healthcare facilities is Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, known for its exceptional patient care and specialty services, including cancer treatment, heart and vascular care, and orthopedics.

Several clinics, urgent care centers, and specialized health centers like the Chantilly Family Practice Center and CareNow Urgent Care are also found in Chantilly, ensuring immediate care during medical emergencies.

For seniors, facilities like Compassus’ Chantilly Hospice provide top-notch care. If you have a family member benefiting from their services, it will make a big difference to be able to visit them more often once you buy one of the homes for sale in Chantilly, VA.

Dining and shopping

Whether you fancy a cuppa Joe with pastries at a cozy café or a lavish dinner at a fine dining restaurant, Chantilly has it all. Notable eateries include the Backyard Grill Restaurant, El Fresco Mexican Grill, and Anita's New Mexico Style Mexican Food.

Chantilly also offers numerous retail options. From large shopping centers like Chantilly Shopping Center and Greenbriar Town Center to small specialty shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice. As for daily needs, several grocery stores and convenience shops are scattered throughout Chantilly.

Parks and attractions

In Chantilly, you won’t run out of things to do. It’s home to several beautiful green spaces and other remarkable landmarks. The Eleanor C. Lawrence Park, for example, offers 650 acres of woodlands and meadows, perfect for hiking or bird watching. The park also features historical sites, picnic areas, and a pond for fishing.

If you're into horseback riding, the nearby Manassas National Battlefield Park offers miles of scenic bridle paths. For cyclists, the W&OD (Washington and Old Dominion) Trail, a 45-mile rail-to-recreation trail, runs through the northern part of Chantilly. It’s the perfect spot for biking, walking, or running.

As mentioned earlier, several waterways make their way through Chantilly before draining into the Potomac River. These include Bull Run Marina, where you can rent canoes or kayaks; and Fountainhead Regional Park, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

History buffs will be interested in visiting the Sully Historic Site – where Richard Bland Lee, Northern Virginia's first representative to Congress, resided. It is both a local historical landmark and a registered place in the National Historic Register due to its architecture and role in the history of the region. Visitors can take guided tours of the 1794 home, outbuildings, and gardens.

Of course, there’s the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, a local attraction that houses thousands of aviation and space artifacts, including the renowned space shuttle, Discovery. The museum attracts millions of visitors each year, making Chantilly a must-visit destination for history and science enthusiasts.

Mobility

Public transport in Chantilly is primarily made up of bus services managed by Fairfax Connector. These buses connect the community to various locations within Fairfax County, including Dulles International Airport.

For those taking the bus to Washington D.C., the Metrobus 5A is a direct link from Dulles Airport to Downtown D.C. Additionally, the nearby Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Metro Station provides access to the Washington Metro's Orange Line, offering an easy commute to the capital city.

Chantilly is also well-connected via major arteries like U.S. Route 50 and State Route 28, providing easy access to surrounding areas. But if you prefer a greener mode of transport, you could go biking in Chantilly via several dedicated paths and trails. The Fairfax County Parkway Trail, for instance, is a popular route for both cyclists and pedestrians. Walking is another viable option for short distances, particularly in the town's scenic and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

FIND YOUR NEW HOME IN CHANTILLY, VA

Whether you're a young professional, a parent with a growing family, or a retiree, Chantilly is a place where you can feel at home. You can choose from the inclusive and vibrant homes for sale in Chantilly, VA, guided by Northern Virginia’s top Realtors – The Circadian Team.

Our team can help you achieve your real estate aspirations in Chantilly, as well as in other nearby areas like Herndon, Reston, and Vienna. Our years of experience, expertise in the local market, in-depth knowledge of our areas of concern, and a wide network of industry colleagues and affiliates are what make us one of the top-selling teams in Northern Virginia.