Thanks to all of the EBDC readers who responded to my post last week. It was encouraging to hear that many of you liked my apartment enough to move-in, and makes me feel better about the money I’ve spent on home furnishings this past year. My landlord is still hosting an open House Saturday if interested.
As we near the holidays, there seems to be less and less options available on the rental market. In tough times like this, it helps to get creative in your housing search. Instead of casually perusing Craig’s List, I recommend calling buildings you’re familiar with and asking about end of year move-in specials. It never hurts to also tap into your personal network — Facebook groups and alumni email chains are always fruitful with people desperate to get out of their place for one reason, or another. If you do find a place, be prepared for the application process. Make sure you have a list of references (past landlords, bosses, roommates, etc.) and recent pay stubs, or an offer letter readily available. Having these materials prepared to submit will help you lockdown a new place faster than your competition.
$2150 / 650ft2 – One-bedroom Swann Street Apartment, Jan. 1 (Dupont) (18th & Swann)
Why you’ll love it: SWANN STREET ALERT! A few posts back, I mentioned how gorgeous this street is, and this post is evidence. There’s no place more picture perfect in the fall than Swann. The interior of this apartment is equally beautiful to its location. Hardwoods and wainscoting throughout this place make it incredibly charming.
What concerns me: The main entryway to this apartment is street-facing, which can be worrisome at night. When touring, take a close look at the lock and make sure the area is well-light.
$1075 Incredible Room Available in Columbia Heights Row House! (Washington)
What makes this place great: The details of this house are incredible. I love when renovators keep the original woodwork, or at least replicate it. I usually shy away from including “room” options, but I realize not all of you are looking for your own place. This post is for one of four bedrooms, ideal for those who want roommates.
Why it might not work for you: The post describes the house well, but no word on who the roommates are, or what type of person they are looking for. Some group houses require potential roommates to interview with each current tenant, so ask about the interview process when inquiring.
$1375 / 1br – One-Bedroom + Enclosed Porch in Glover Park (2212 40th St., NW)
Why I included it: The best thing about this place is the price. There are no other details in the post. If you’re looking for a deal and don’t need bells and whistles, this could be the place for you.
Why you should keep looking: Because there are no details in this post’s description, I fear it may be too good to be true. I certainly hope not, because you can’t beat the price, especially considering a private outdoor space is included.
$1850 / 1br – 750ft2 – Renovated 1BR in DC’s Vibrant Adams Morgan ZERO Deposit*
Act quickly: As previously mentioned, there isn’t much inventory this time of year. This apartment post says that they are already giving multiple tours today. I would get on it and apply if you have any interest. What I love about this place is how sunny and bright it appears to be. Moving costs are expensive, so I appreciate that the landlord included details such as the associated move-in fee and pet fee.
What makes me think twice: I can’t get a sense for what the layout of this apartment is. The unit is 750 square feet, but the photos make it appear to be smaller than that. Ask for a floor plan when you reply to this post.
$1990 / 591ft2 – Unique Studio with Beautiful Exposed Brick Available Now! (455 I St NW)
So much to love: I spent much of my preteen years watching chick flicks about fabulous magazine editors “living it up in the city.” Their apartments always looked something like this one. Exposed brick, factory windows, and high ceilings — all the cool, trendy details can be found here (including subway tile!).
Warning: Go ahead and live out your childhood dreams in this place, just be realistic about the price tag. Is that small of a space worth the asking price?
That’s it from me this week.
Until next time,
Cara
