History of Cinnamon Oaks HOA
Cinnamon Oaks is not explicitly documented under that name in Fairfax County, but there is a community named Great Oaks in Fairfax City, which might be the intended reference due to the similarity in names and the context provided. Great Oaks was developed in the early 1970s by Lester H. Shor, who aimed to create a community that preserved much of the natural landscape, including a significant number of mature trees like oaks, birches, and beeches. The design philosophy emphasized shared community spaces, with homes built to blend into this wooded setting.
The community is known for its contemporary-style homes with earth-tone exteriors, laid out on cul-de-sacs to maintain privacy and safety. The HOA was established to manage communal amenities like roads, sewers, a pool, and common areas, with residents paying a monthly fee for maintenance services including snow plowing. The governance of Great Oaks has been through a homeowners association since its inception, focusing on maintaining the aesthetic and functional integrity of the community.
Demographics of the Area
Fairfax County, where Great Oaks is located, has seen various demographic shifts over the years:
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Population Growth: The county has experienced steady, albeit slowed, population growth. From 2021 to 2022, there was a minor increase of 0.2%, with a notable trend of decreasing population growth since 2020 due to factors like reduced international migration and increased domestic out-migration.
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Income and Poverty: As of 2021, Fairfax County’s median household income was significantly higher than both the state and national averages, at $134,115. However, there is a disparity, with 7.1% of the population living below the poverty line, including 10% of children and 6% of seniors.
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Diversity: Great Oaks, like much of Fairfax County, has become more ethnically diverse over time. Originally, it was home to many military families, including high-ranking officers, which contributed to a diverse demographic base.
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Age and Household Composition: There’s a mix of young professionals and families, with the community evolving from one dominated by young professionals to one with a balance of older and newer families.
Real Estate Trends in Great Oaks and Fairfax County
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Property Values: Real estate in Great Oaks has historically been on the higher end, reflecting Fairfax County’s status as one of the more affluent areas in Virginia. In Great Oaks, homes range from contemporary designs with minimal yards to larger residences, with past sales data indicating prices from $249,000 to $305,000 back in 1996, likely much higher today.
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Market Dynamics: Fairfax County’s real estate market has been characterized by:
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High Demand: With a vacancy rate close to 0%, the demand for housing remains high, often leading to properties selling above asking price, especially in desirable neighborhoods like Great Oaks.
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Price Trends: Real estate assessments in Fairfax County have generally increased, with a 9.57% rise in 2022, pushing the average assessment for homes up to $668,974.
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Inventory and Sales: The market has shown a trend of decreasing inventory with a significant portion of homes selling within 30 days, indicating a seller’s market.
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New Construction: While there’s been growth in multi-family and townhouse units county-wide, Great Oaks’ development was largely completed by the 1980s, focusing more on maintaining the existing structures rather than new builds.
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HOA Influence: The HOA in Great Oaks has a significant role in dictating property modifications, which can both enhance property values by maintaining uniform standards but might also deter buyers who prefer less community regulation.
Conclusion
Great Oaks, possibly confused with or analogous to Cinnamon Oaks, provides a unique blend of suburban living with a strong community governance model through its HOA. The demographics reflect the broader shifts in Fairfax County, trending towards diversity and a stable, affluent community. Real estate trends suggest a robust market with high demand and appreciating values, influenced by community regulations and the overall attractiveness of living in such a well-managed, picturesque setting.
For exact, current data, one would need to consult local real estate listings, HOA documents, and demographic reports from Fairfax County’s official resources or real estate analysis platforms like Redfin or Zillow for the most up-to-date information.
