History of Burke Centre Station Commons
Burke Centre Station Commons is part of the broader Burke Centre community, which was developed as a planned residential area in Fairfax County, Virginia. The concept of Burke Centre began in the early 1970s as a response to the growing need for suburban housing with community amenities close to Washington, D.C. The area was envisioned as a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, aiming to create a self-sustained, family-friendly environment.
The development of Burke Centre followed the establishment of the Burke Centre Conservancy, a homeowners’ association that manages the community. This planned community was designed with a focus on maintaining green spaces, providing various amenities like community centers, pools, and trails, and fostering a sense of community among residents. Burke Centre Station Commons specifically refers to an apartment complex within this larger community, designed to offer modern living with easy access to public transportation, particularly the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Burke Centre station, which opened in 1992, enhancing connectivity to downtown Washington, D.C.
Demographics
Burke Centre, including the area around Burke Centre Station Commons, has a diverse demographic profile reflecting the broader Fairfax County trends:
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Population: According to the 2020 census, the Burke Centre CDP (Census Designated Place) has a population of approximately 17,518 people. Given its placement within this area, Burke Centre Station Commons would cater to a similar demographic slice.
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Racial Composition: The area is quite diverse with:
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59.24% White
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6.33% African American
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15.85% Asian
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14.63% Hispanic or Latino of any race
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The rest from other races or mixed-race backgrounds.
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Age Distribution: The median age is around 37.8 years, with a significant portion of the population in the working age bracket, which supports a vibrant community life with families and young professionals.
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Household Characteristics: A majority (60.4%) of households are married couple families, suggesting a stable, family-oriented community.
Real Estate Trends
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Property Types: Burke Centre Station Commons offers apartments, which are relatively newer with modern amenities like granite countertops, GE Clean Steel appliances, and wood flooring. This contrasts with the surrounding single-family homes which dominate much of Burke Centre.
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Market Trends: The real estate market in Fairfax County, and particularly in Burke, has seen steady growth:
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Price Appreciation: Over the last decade, property values in Burke have generally appreciated due to its location, quality of life, and access to good schools. Apartments in complexes like Burke Centre Station Commons have become more sought after due to their modern conveniences and proximity to public transit.
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Rental Market: There’s a strong demand for rental properties in Burke, especially from government employees, contractors, and professionals working in or around Washington, D.C. The median rent for apartments in similar complexes can range significantly but has been rising, reflecting the broader market trend.
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Community Amenities Impact: The presence of community amenities like pools, fitness centers, and parks within Burke Centre increases property appeal, potentially driving up both rental and purchase prices.
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Future Outlook: Real estate in Burke Centre, including Burke Centre Station Commons, looks poised for continued interest due to:
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Proximity to Washington, D.C.: The commute benefits provided by the VRE.
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Quality of Life: High-rated schools, community safety, and recreational facilities.
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Development: Ongoing and future developments in Fairfax County are likely to maintain or increase property values.
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Conclusion
Burke Centre Station Commons stands as a testament to thoughtful community planning within Fairfax County, Virginia. Its history reflects broader trends in suburban development near metropolitan areas, balancing residential spaces with community integration. The demographic diversity and stability contribute to a vibrant community life, while real estate trends underscore the area’s desirability for both residents and investors. As Fairfax County continues to evolve, Burke Centre Station Commons will likely remain a significant part of this dynamic region, offering both modern living and community connectivity.
