History of Bentana Woods Cluster
Bentana Woods was developed in the early 1970s by Bennett of Virginia, part of a broader vision to create a living space that harmonizes with the natural environment. Located in the Tall Oaks section of Reston, the cluster was conceived to offer residents a serene, almost rural setting despite its proximity to urban conveniences.
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Development: The community consists of two main segments – Bentana Woods Cluster with 48 homes and Bentana Woods West with 108 homes. These ‘California Townhomes‘ were designed with a focus on space efficiency and low maintenance, reflecting the era’s emphasis on community living and environmental conservation.
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Notable Features: Over 50% of the land in Bentana Woods is designated as common areas, featuring open grassy fields, playgrounds (tot lots), and extensive stands of trees, some of which have been certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. This green space commitment underscores the community’s dedication to preserving nature.
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Community Association: From the outset, Bentana Woods operated under a Homeowners Association (HOA) to manage communal resources and maintain the area’s aesthetic and functional integrity. The HOA has been instrumental in organizing community events, maintaining common areas, and ensuring that the cluster remains a desirable place to live.
Demographics of Bentana Woods
The demographic composition of Bentana Woods reflects the broader trends of Fairfax County, albeit with its unique characteristics:
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Population: While exact current figures for Bentana Woods alone aren’t pinpointed in public records, Fairfax County’s demographic trends suggest a diverse but predominantly affluent community. Bentana Woods likely mirrors this with a mix of professionals, families, and retirees drawn to its tranquil setting.
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Income Levels: Given its location in Reston, a community known for higher median incomes, Bentana Woods residents are likely part of this demographic. Fairfax County’s median household income significantly exceeds both state and national averages, which impacts the socio-economic fabric of clusters like Bentana Woods.
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Age and Family Composition: The area’s appeal to families is evident from its proximity to good schools and parks. The community’s design, with its focus on outdoor spaces, would particularly attract families with children or individuals who appreciate nature.
Real Estate Trends
Real estate in Bentana Woods has seen various trends influenced by both local and national market dynamics:
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Property Values: Over the years, property values in Fairfax County have consistently risen, with Bentana Woods benefiting from this trend due to its unique offerings. The cluster’s homes, ranging from 1,700 to 2,200 square feet, are competitively priced for the area, often attracting buyers looking for a balance of price and quality of life.
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Housing Market Dynamics: The real estate in Bentana Woods has been part of Fairfax County’s broader market, which has shown resilience with median listing home prices increasing by 7.3% year-over-year as of 2023. Bentana Woods, with its charm and community focus, typically holds its value well, though affected by the same market forces like interest rates, economic conditions, and local development projects.
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Sustainability and Modernization: Recent trends also include a push towards sustainability, with initiatives like Charge Up Fairfax aiding homeowners associations in installing EV charging stations, reflecting a community increasingly concerned with environmental impacts.
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Buyer Profile: The buyer profile for Bentana Woods homes includes those looking for a community with a strong sense of place, good schools, and access to both natural beauty and urban amenities. The area’s townhomes are particularly appealing for those transitioning from larger homes or seeking a community with lower maintenance demands.
Conclusion
Bentana Woods Cluster HOA in Fairfax County, Virginia, stands as a testament to thoughtful community planning where history, nature, and modern living converge. Its history is rooted in the 1970s vision of Reston, its demographics reflect a slice of Fairfax’s affluent and diverse population, and its real estate trends are indicative of a market that values quality of life alongside property value appreciation. As Fairfax County continues to evolve, Bentana Woods remains a model for how communities can preserve their unique character while adapting to contemporary needs.
