Conifer Realty Breaks Ground on Telestar Court, Its First Affordable Housing Development in Virginia

Falls Church, June 23, 2025 – Conifer Realty, in partnership with the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) and Joseph Browne Development Associates, is proud to announce the groundbreaking of Telestar Court, an 80-unit affordable multifamily development in Falls Church, Virginia. This marks Conifer’s first development in Virginia, expanding the company’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable housing solutions.

Located at 2990 Telestar Court, the development will transform a four-story commercial office building into a modern, energy-efficient residential community, helping to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in Northern Virginia. Telestar Court will feature 36 one-bedroom and 44 two-bedroom apartments, all designated as affordable under the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. The project will serve households earning 30% to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

“Telestar Court represents a significant milestone for Conifer as we expand our footprint into Virginia,” said Paul Marfione, Vice President of Development for Conifer Realty. “We are looking forward to bringing our expertise in creating vibrant, sustainable communities to Fairfax County, providing families with modern living spaces that offer both affordability and opportunity.”

The redevelopment is part of Conifer’s ongoing efforts to meet the diverse housing needs of communities, with a focus on long-term affordability, resident well-being, and environmental sustainability. The new community will be equipped with modern amenities, including a community room, bike storage, a public outdoor play area with a park, playground, walking paths, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The building will also meet EarthCraft certification standards and Virginia Housing’s sustainability requirements.

“The innovation and creativity required to transform an office building into affordable housing is another example of how we make progress in this community,” said Lenore Stanton, Chair, FCRHA.

“In order to continue to grow our local economy, working families need affordable housing. Telestar Court’s location in the key employment center of Merrifield is another example of our commitment to ensuring people all along the income spectrum can afford to live near where they work,” said Jeff McKay, Chairman, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

The project began construction in May 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2026. The total development cost for Telestar Court is $51 million, funded through a combination of tax credit equity, public financing, and private investment. Conifer LeChase will manage all aspects of construction, ensuring the project’s timely and efficient completion.

“Telestar Court is an important step in Merrifield’s continued transformation into one of Fairfax County’s most vibrant communities. Standing here, steps from Luther Jackson Middle School, originally opened as a Black High School during segregation, we are reminded of the profound role housing plays in building a more inclusive and equitable community,” said Dalia Palchik, Providence District Supervisor, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

Telestar Court will not only provide affordable housing but will also feature a mix of Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) and Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) for formerly homeless individuals, helping to serve a diverse range of residents in need.

Conifer Realty has more than 50 years of experience in the affordable housing industry and has developed more than 21,000 affordable homes across more than 300 communities in the Northeast and Southeast U.S. Known for its innovative approach to affordable housing, Conifer specializes in new construction and adaptive reuse projects that incorporate modern design, energy efficiency, and sustainability to seamlessly integrate with the personality of local communities. The company is committed to meeting the diverse housing needs of communities while maintaining a focus on long-term affordability and resident well-being.

For more information about Telestar Court and Conifer Realty’s commitment to affordable housing, visit www.coniferllc.com.