I’m always on the lookout for charm – it’s one of my key criteria in searching for a place to live. But this week it was by total coincidence that three of the four listings I found used the word “charming” in their titles. The thing that’s really cool is that all three are charming but in such different ways, there may be a little something for everyone who is apartment shopping this week. From a pristine, renovated Columbia Heights apartment to a Forest Hills cottage – complete with 1/3 acre of land – I hope you are charmed by the listings I discovered!
$1440 – 0 BD/1 BA – 489 square feet – Pet friendly studio on Connecticut Avenue (Forest Hills)
Amenities: Dishwasher in unit; access to laundry room, indoor/outdoor pool, tennis courts
Utilities: Everything included except electric/internet
Metro access: .5 mile to Van Ness (Red Line)
Parking: Street; garage parking available
What makes it great: This is within a block of my home so I can vouch: this is a great area to live in. It’s safe, convenient for both drivers and Metro-riders, and not far from all that Van Ness/Chevy Chase/ Tenleytown has to offer. This apartment itself is a great price for this neighborhood. While its a studio, it appears to be well-laid out (you can see the current tenant has a pretty big dog living in her unit!) and has a walk-in closet. Current tenant can also leave some furniture behind if needed.
Why you may think twice: This would be a subleasing situation – which can sometimes get complicated. Definitely go over the requirements before diving in.
$2100 – 2 BD/1 BA – 950 square feet – Charming 2 bedroom in Mt. Pleasant
Amenities: Dishwasher, W/D in unit
Utilities: Included (including cable)
Metro access: .4 mile to Columbia Heights (green/yellow)
Parking: Spot available for $100 more
What makes it great: Mount Pleasant is a great area to live in – close to Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights and right near the zoo. This apartment appears to have two nice-sized bedrooms and a renovated kitchen. I was drawn in by the patio which would provide you with a separate entrance from other tenants.
Why you may think twice: This appears to be a garden-level apartment which not everyone is comfortable with. It also appears that most of the doors have windows – which may not be ideal for privacy purposes if you plan to live here with a roommate.
Amenities: W/D in unit, access to community grilling area
Utilities: Tenant responsible for electricity
Metro access: .2 miles to Columbia Heights (green/yellow)
Parking: Street
What makes it great: This unit is pretty incredible! Not only is it in an awesome location (less than 5 minute walk from Columbia Heights metro), it is totally refinished with modern appliances while keeping its DC charm! I love the living room (hardwood floors, exposed brick, and fireplace) the most, but the closets with custom shelving in both bedrooms is high up there on my list. There’s also a shared patio/grilling area you can take advantage of when winter (finally) ends.
Why you may think twice: While beautiful, this is pricey for this part of town. If you’re looking to live in Columbia Heights without that high price tag, there are plenty of other options out there – they just may not be quite as beautiful.
$3100- 1 BD/ 1 BA- 1040 sq feet- Charming cottage on private wooded lot 1/3 acre (Forest Hills) 
Amenities: W/D in unit; large outdoor space with patio
Utilities: Not mentioned
Metro access: .5 miles to Van Ness (Red Line)
Parking: Off-street, ample street spaces
What makes it great: If unique is what you’re searching for, look no further! This is a hidden gem just blocks from the action of DC. Don’t be fooled by the word ‘cottage’ – at 1040 square feet, this is larger than most one bedrooms in the city. Features include large bedroom, basement storage area (with laundry), rain shower in bathroom and modern kitchen. If you’re into nature, you’ll have it all around you – probably the most outdoor space in the District on Craigslist right now!
Why you may think twice: This is pretty pricey for a one bedroom home – and there’s no word on utilities so it could cause the monthly price to go up even more.
