Exposed Brick DC

There are significantly fewer listings this time of year, but that doesn’t mean the home of your dreams isn’t out there. I found and moved into a great apartment early last December- and the best part was there was less competition looking when I was. Another perk is that you can find some deals since landlords want what they do have available filled ASAP.

I set a price limit of $2000 for my search this week. It is getting harder to live alone for that price, but it is possible – especially if you’re willing to think outside of the typical DC neighborhood box. Here’s what’s out there under $2k/month!

$1500 – 700 sq ft – 0 BD/1 BA – STUDIO in Cathedral Heights

This is my old stomping grounds: where I found my lovely little studio this time last year. It may not be on the most beaten track, but it’s close to plenty of activities. Buses run up and down Wisconsin Ave with easy trips to Georgetown or Tenleytown – others can take you right to the Red Line. I found it was a great, quiet place to live – with a price tag where I could actually afford to have a bit more fun.

Amenities: Water/trash included; w/d in unit

Closest Metro: 1 mile to Tenleytown & Cleveland Park Metro stations (Red Line)

What makes it great: This is a studio, but at 700 square feet – it’s bigger than many of DC’s 1 bedroom apartments. The current tenant appears to have a full or queen bed, a full sofa – and space for a dining room table. One entire wall is made up of windows – a great way to bring natural light in. I feel like its not often we come across studios with fireplaces! This is a sublease – so if you’re new to the city, it could be a great option to avoid making a full year commitment. You may also get a good deal on the furniture from the current tenant.

Why you may think twice: This is a sublease, which can be tricky. Make sure to get more info from the current tenant about what happens after August 2018 – and how much notice you’ll need to give the landlord if dont’t want to stay. Check out Cathedral Heights before you commit. It has plenty of its own shops & restaurants, but its not for everyone.

$1700 – 1000 sq feet – 1 BR/1 BA – Renovated Basement Suite (Colonial Village)

Living in the basement suite of a family home isn’t for everyone, but I’ve been open to it because I grew up in a house where the third floor was an apartment. It often means you’re in a much nicer neighborhood and living space than you’d typically be able to afford and significantly lower utility bills. That’s the case with this suite just off Rock Creek Parkway in NW.

Amenities: Washer/dryer, unlimited parking, backyard with built-in grill

Closest Metro: Walking distance to Silver Spring Station (Red Line)

What makes it great: If you’re craving a quieter home away from the hustle and bustle, but still within DC limits – this is a great option. It is a newly renovated apartment with a wood burning fireplace, walk-in shower, and big backyard. Wireless internet included (no word on other utilities). 1000 square feet is a lot for a one bedroom in the District. Parking is no issue in this part of town – the listing says its “limitless” – woah!

Why you may think twice: Nothing is said about who lives in the rest of the house – or whether any facilities (w/d, backyard) are shared. Colonial Village is full of single-family homes so this is not a part of town where there’s a lot to do right outside your front door.

$1950- 700 sq ft- 1 BD/ 1 BA – Fully renovated, 5 minute walk to Metro (Capitol Hill)

Before I moved to DC, I thought I’d live in this neighborhood. Where I ended up finding a job, it didn’t make sense to live down in this area but I still get a bit of FOMO when I come across listings like this. I think an apartment like this is what I would’ve hoped to end up in: a great, walkable location, a bit of character – and some outdoor space!

Amenities: W/D in unit, dishwasher, central AC, private deck

Closest Metro: .4 miles to Stadium Armory Metro (blue, orange, silver lines)

What makes it great: This appears to be a great one bedroom in a boutique (4 units total) older building. While it has the look of an older DC building, its been totally renovated (central AC= key 6 months from now!). The kitchen/living room are open – looks like a great space for entertaining. Of course I’m partial to the private, walk-out deck (share the backyard with other tenants). In addition to easy Metro access, you’ll have reserved, off-street parking.

Why you may think twice: This is a first-floor unit – which isn’t everyone’s dream situation. It also appears a door to outside opens right into the bedroom.

$1995 – 700 sq ft- 1 BD/1 BA – Fabulous furnished 1 BR in the heart of Adams Morgan

This would be a dream come true for someone who is moving to DC – and doesn’t have the time/patience to shop around. Leave your furniture and just about everything you own – and settle right in here. It includes everything down to the kitchenware and linens. This is a block away from my first apartment in DC- and its an area I’d highly recommend to start a DC life!

Amenities: Water/trash removal included; W/D, dishwasher

Closest Metro: .7 miles to Woodley Park (red line), .7 miles to Columbia Heights (green/yellow lines)

What makes it great: This has the open, airy look of a hotel suite – and comes with everything you need to make it feel that way at first. While the building has the look of the older Adams Morgan apartments, the inside has been totally renovated with updates throughout. You’ll be able to get great use of the kitchen – because there’s a Safeway just next door. If you prefer to eat out, you’re a block away from the restaurants on Adams Morgan’s main drag.

Why you may think twice: If you’ve made any investments in furniture (or simply just like yours) or other home goods, you may want to look elsewhere. This one comes equipped with everything, included in the price. While the location is great, parking in this neighborhood is tough to come by. There have also been a lot of empty storefronts and construction on this particular block – so the vibe isn’t quite as exciting as being in the center of 18th Street.