top of page

A Designer's Eye. A Neighbor's Heart.

Where 25 years of design expertise meets deep roots in Virginia's most treasured landmark village.

Where Vision Meets Experience

Before I sold homes, I designed them. For 25 years as an interior designer, I learned to see beyond what a space is to what it could become—the flow of light through a room, the potential hidden beneath dated finishes, the story waiting to be told. When I transitioned to real estate, I brought that vision with me. Today, I work with buyers and sellers across Northern Virginia, from the rolling estates of Loudoun County to the distinguished neighborhoods of Arlington. Whether it's a historic property with centuries of character or a contemporary home in a sought-after community, I help my clients see possibility—and I know how to present properties at their absolute best. I'm rooted in the village of Waterford, where I've raised my family and led community preservation efforts, but my practice extends wherever my clients need me.

waterford-virginia-realtor-christy-hertel-1024x683.jpg

My Approach

I believe real estate should be personal. Not transactional—personal. That means I'm directly involved in every aspect of your experience, not handing you off to assistants or transaction coordinators. When you call, you get me.

For sellers, my design background becomes your competitive advantage. I know how to prepare a home for market—what to refresh, what to leave alone, and how to present your property so buyers feel its full potential the moment they walk through the door. I invest heavily in professional photography, integrated floor plans, and strategic digital marketing that puts your listing in front of qualified buyers.

For buyers, I serve as both guide and advocate. I'll help you see past cosmetic distractions to evaluate what truly matters, and I'll bring the negotiation skills developed over years of successful transactions to secure the best possible terms on your behalf.

What I Do Best

Historic Properties Living in a National Historic Landmark village has given me deep expertise in older homes—their quirks, their charms, and the special considerations they require. I understand easements, preservation guidelines, and how to market a property's history as the asset it truly is.

Luxury Homes & Estates Through the Sotheby's International Realty network, your property gains exposure to qualified buyers around the world. I bring the marketing sophistication and discretion that high-value transactions demand.

Land & Farms Western Loudoun remains one of Virginia's most desirable regions for equestrian properties, vineyards, and gentleman farms. I know this landscape intimately and can help buyers find the right parcel or help sellers position their land for maximum value.

Design-Forward Representation Whether you're buying or selling, my background lets me see what others miss. I maintain relationships with architects, contractors, landscapers, and craftspeople I've worked with for decades—resources that become your resources.

christy-ruane-hertel-and-family_edited.jpg

The Path Here

I grew up in the Washington area and was educated at Georgetown Visitation before studying interior design at the University of San Francisco's Academy of Art and attending Mt. Vernon College.

My 25-year design career gave me the foundation for everything I do today: a trained eye, a deep professional network, and an understanding that the spaces where we live shape how we feel. When I made the transition to real estate, I didn't leave that behind—I built on it.

Today, my husband and I live in the historic village of Waterford. He's a partner at Commercial Group Realty in Dulles, so real estate is very much a family affair. Our son is a student at Syracuse University, which means I now know the Central New York market better than I ever expected.

Let's Talk!

Whether you're considering a move, curious about your home's value, or just beginning to explore the possibilities, I'd welcome the conversation. No pressure, no obligation—just honest guidance from someone who genuinely loves what she does.

luxury-realtor-christy-hertel.png
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube

Christy Hertel

REALTOR®

CALL OR TEXT

Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. This website is not the official website of Sotheby’s International Realty. Sotheby’s International Realty does not make any representation or warranty regarding any information, including without limitation its accuracy or completeness, contained on this website. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. and some independently owned offices are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Privacy Policy  • Accessibility Statement

© 2025 Christy Hertel. All Rights Reserved.

waterford-virginia.jpg
bottom of page