Funny... my house in one of the more desireable neighborhoods on .8 acres, 3 br, 2 bath, fireplace, 2 car garage and a spa room off of the reasonably large master suite was comped at 250k last summer. Maybe I need to go find the agent that is giving kwicslvr his information.
As far as the other house being normal for other plants, I am not so sure. Some, yes, but not most of the ones I have been going to. I don't want to live where most of those plants are. Perhaps others feel the same way and that is why it is so cheap in those areas.
You are right about DC. I only go there during the day, when I go. Rather go to Annapolis, which is one of the best cities I have ever been to, and just a little closer.
Everyone finds value in different things. Most of what I value I find around southern Maryland for a reasonable price. Not everyone will feel that way. To each his own.