Although I’ve long been out of school, September always feels like a good time for a fresh start. Today’s finds are tailored to those of you who might be new to D.C. and looking to live alone. Perhaps you’re moving here for a new job, or you’ve come for grad school. Whatever your reason, as transient as D.C. is, it can be tough to find housing from afar.
Here are some of my housing search tips for those of you who don’t live in D.C.:
For a realistic look into buildings you’re considering, head to Instagram. If the building is professionally managed, it likely has a geotag, meaning there could be photos posted online by people who actually live there. Use Skype and Facetime to “tour” buildings without having to take an extra trip here before you move — lugging around D.C. looking for apartments in one day is exhausting. My final, and most obvious tip is to rely on us here at Exposed Brick!
$1995 Sun splashed locale features generous living space plus flat panel TV! (Dupont Circle)
What makes this great: This might be my favorite studio found on Craigslist to date (well, second to my own). Between the pretty seafoam accent wall, and modern pendant lamp, I am sold by the furnishings alone – plus it comes as is, so you get to keep it all, including the cool couch pictured above. Be sure to click through to see the beautiful subway-tiled kitchen. One last detail to love is the location, Q and 18th puts you in Dupont Circle, and close to the action on 14th street.
Why it might not work: That wooden object in the corner above is a murphy bed masked as a wardrobe. I love my murphy bed, but they aren’t for everyone.
$1550 / 407ft2 – Just what you’re looking for! Efficiency 2231 Ontario (Meridian Park)
What makes this great: Loving this modernized studio in Adams Morgan. This boutique building is close to famous Meridian Hill Park – a favorite place among D.C. locals to relax, or work out. This cozy studio is just under 500ft2, so it is small, but the layout looks pretty open and includes details like curved arches. Cooking next to where you sleep at night is weird to some people, but its important to remember this is an “efficiency-studio” — meaning the kitchen is actually separate from the rest of the living area, making it much more livable.
Why you should think twice: No central A/C. You’ll be relying on a window unit to keep you cool during the summer months.
$1700 / 350ft2 – Amazing Efficiency in Washington. 350 SqFt! (Dupont Circle)
What makes it great: For those who fear commitment, you’ve found your next home. This unit at The Sedgewick is letting you choose any contract term between 9 and 15 months. What also appeals to me about this property its prime location. This building is located on 19th St., and for newcomers to the area, this means you are one street over from the Dupont Circle metro (aka the most-central metro station in the city).
Why it might not work: the kitchen could use an upgrade, and at 350 ft2, you don’t get much room to work with.
$1725 / 477ft2 – Don’t wait! This spacious Studio will go fast! 477 Sq Ft! (Washington)
Why you’ll love it: Transitioning from living with roommates to alone is a big financial commitment, but worth it for an apartment like this one. Knowing this building well (I toured it about a year ago) this particular unit is priced high, which makes me think it could be on the top floor. With a gorgeous rooftop, basement gym, and ideal location, The Melwood might be pricey, but it’s certainly impressive.
Why you should think twice: If this unit isn’t on the top floor, it could be noisy being at the corner of 18th and Columbia.
Have a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend!
Until next week…
Cara
