History
Reston was founded in the mid-1960s by Robert E. Simon, Jr., with the vision of creating a “new town” that would counteract the sprawl and congestion of Washington, D.C. Bentana Woods, part of this vision, was developed in the early 1970s by Bennett of Virginia. This community was part of the Tall Oaks section, emphasizing the integration of housing with natural landscapes, which is evident in Bentana Woods’ design where more than 50% of the land is dedicated to common areas including open grass, tot lots, and certified wildlife habitats by the National Wildlife Federation.
Bentana Woods West, specifically, consists of 108 homes, offering a serene living environment close to urban conveniences like the Wiehle-Reston East Metro Station, Lake Fairfax Park, Reston Town Center, and Lake Anne Plaza. The original marketing from the 1970s boasted features like Formica surfaces and the promise of a new elementary school, which have since evolved, but the core appeal of space, design, and proximity to natural beauty remains.
Demographics
Demographic data specific to Bentana Woods West is less detailed in public records, but we can infer from broader Fairfax County and Reston statistics. Fairfax County is known for its diversity and affluence, with a median household income significantly higher than the national average. The population of Fairfax County is diverse, with significant Asian, Hispanic, and African American populations, though the latter is less represented in certain areas due to historical housing practices and development policies (noted in some analyses on fair housing).
Reston itself has a demographic makeup that reflects a well-educated, professional community, with many residents working in or near the Washington, D.C. area. The age distribution in Reston tends to lean towards an older demographic, which aligns with the trend of established communities offering a tranquil, family-friendly environment like Bentana Woods West.
Real Estate Trends
Real estate in Bentana Woods West has followed the general upward trajectory seen in Fairfax County, particularly in Reston. Here’s a breakdown based on recent trends:
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Home Values: The median listing home price in Fairfax County has been noted to be around $750K in October 2023, with a yearly increase of 7.3%. While specific figures for Bentana Woods West might vary, the trend suggests a similar or slightly higher appreciation due to its desirable location and community amenities.
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Market Competitiveness: The Fairfax County housing market is competitive, with homes selling quickly – an average of 29 days on the market. Bentana Woods, with its unique charm, likely experiences even higher demand due to its proximity to both natural landscapes and urban conveniences.
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Property Characteristics: The homes in Bentana Woods West are primarily townhouses with 3-4 bedrooms, offering around 1,700 square feet of living space. These properties are well-suited for families looking for a balance of community life and personal space.
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Future Trends: Given the ongoing development in Reston and the continuous interest in suburban living with urban access, real estate in Bentana Woods West is likely to remain a hot commodity. However, potential buyers should be aware of broader economic trends like interest rates and employment stability, which can influence real estate dynamics.
Conclusion
Bentana Woods West Cluster in Fairfax County, Virginia, encapsulates the essence of Reston’s original vision – a community where residents can enjoy the benefits of nature alongside modern conveniences. Its history is a testament to thoughtful urban planning, its demographics reflect the area’s appeal to a wide range of residents, and its real estate trends indicate a robust market with a promising future. For those considering this area for residence or investment, Bentana Woods West represents not just a place to live but a lifestyle choice emphasizing community, nature, and accessibility.
This analysis is based on available data up to early 2025. For the most current and detailed insights, particularly on demographics and real estate specifics, direct consultation with local real estate experts or community associations might be beneficial.
