Broker License ID: 0225279041I Don't Just Sell Houses. I Fight for Your Future.
For over 20 years, I've been helping Northern Virginia families achieve what they thought was impossible. Whether you're convinced homeownership is out of reach, facing a tight military timeline, or navigating a complex sale, I'm the realtor who finds a way—but only if you're ready to do the work alongside me.
Here's the Truth About How I Work
I'm a strategist first, and that means I'm going to tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. If the market says your home isn't worth what you're hoping, I'll show you exactly why and what we need to do to bridge that gap. If you're not quite ready to buy, I'll lay out the clear steps to get you there.
When you work with me, I'm building a plan customized to your situation, assembling the right team around you, and negotiating relentlessly on your behalf. I've secured seller credits that bought down interest rates. I've negotiated closing cost coverage that saved buyers tens of thousands. I've helped sellers walk away with significantly more money than expected because I invested the time upfront to prepare their homes properly.
Selling? Let's Do It Right.
When you're ready to sell, I come to your home and give you honest advice about repairs, updates, and staging that will maximize your return. Yes, some of my recommendations might require an investment, but they're strategic. Every dollar you spend should make you several more at closing.
I work with professional photographers, handle staging when needed, and market your home like the valuable asset it is. There are plenty of discount agents out there who'll take dark, crooked photos and call it a day. You'll get exactly what you pay for. My clients choose me because they understand that selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make.
Buying? I'll Build the Path.
I've worked with first-time buyers who thought homeownership was years away, and together we created a roadmap to make it happen in months. I connect you with lenders who will work with you over time, help you understand what you truly qualify for, and find creative solutions to close the gap.
My lender connections have secured down payment assistance programs and interest rates that other professionals called "the best they'd seen in years." But none of that matters if you're not willing to put in the effort. I need clients who are ready to be honest about their finances, follow the plan, and trust the process.
A Personal Connection to Military Families
As a proud Air Force mom and Certified Military Relocation Professional, I understand the unique pressures military families face. I've worked extensively with service members at Fort Belvoir, Quantico, and throughout Northern Virginia. Sudden relocation orders, remote closings, coordinating a military move while managing a real estate transaction—I've navigated it all.
I'm Still There After Closing
My clients don't just get a transaction. They get a relationship. I provide every new homeowner with a comprehensive guide covering everything from seasonal maintenance to trusted contractor contacts. Most of my business comes from families I've worked with before or people they've sent my way—because I deliver results and treat every client's financial future with the seriousness it deserves.
What You Can Expect
Honest guidance based on 20 years of market knowledge. A commitment to doing things right, not cutting corners. And someone who will fight for your best outcome at every step.
I'm not the cheapest option, and I won't just tell you what you want to hear. But if you're looking for a realtor who will invest in your success, advocate fiercely on your behalf, and treat your biggest investment with the care it deserves, let's talk.
11,286 Featured Properties Available

Get your free homebuyer guide!
My Blogs































![Why Winter Can Be a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Northern Virginia
When the weather turns cold and the holidays get busy, a lot of buyers put their home search on pause until spring. I understand why. But I always tell my clients that winter can be one of the smartest times to buy here in Northern Virginia.
Less competition
With fewer buyers out looking, you’re less likely to end up in a bidding war. You can take your time, see homes without feeling rushed, and make decisions with a clear head.
Motivated sellers
Homeowners who list during the holidays usually have a real reason to move, like a new job, a PCS move, or a growing family. That often means they’re more open to negotiating on price, closing costs, or repairs.
More choices than last year
The Northern Virginia Association of Realtors reports that buyers have more homes to choose from than they did a year ago. Our market is still tighter than much of the country, though, so good homes in great locations still move quickly.
It’s not one size fits all
Every buyer’s situation is different. A first time buyer in Manassas, a military family relocating to Fairfax, and a family moving up to a bigger home will each need a different plan. That’s why I love sitting down with each client to talk through what makes sense for them.
[Your story here: a buyer you helped in a past winter, or what you’ve seen this season]
Getting ready to buy this winter?
Start by talking with a lender about getting preapproved so you know your budget. Then let’s chat about what you’re looking for. Whether you’re buying your first home or relocating with the military, I’d love to help you find the right fit.
Connect with Mary!
Mary Palma | Realtor® | Broker/Owner, Maven & Key Realty | Licensed in Virginia
📞 571-259-3009 | 📧 Mary@MaryPalma.com | 🌐 www.MaryPalma.com
Follow for more: @AtHome_WithMary](https://scontent-sjc6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/903305176_1711205524348846_7716192473328592493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p720x720_tt6&_nc_cat=109&_nc_map=urlgen_bucketless&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=NXig4pxoQ2MQ7kNvwFb89Ni&_nc_oc=AdoHdTh4V9e5cfosrD6JhMnp-FiqfKRir6o6Y3xn-3hj-r_5b67s8yeUNFsIyttt9J8&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc6-1.xx&edm=AKK4YLsEAAAA&_nc_gid=HHD5QjmPhiAYGTxXmCfTFw&_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQILKdXS9Y4R0t2XX3oB2pphSWF2DBep05L8jXjQp2Sr9hr-wMYp63V5qOv1BSd5R1jVCq1-hUUq&oh=00_AQRBkvLgNrHx7TgMBASzG2E19xMXypcKlQYeLNVnljusZw&oe=6AFBE92D)