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dave · 08-01-2012, 10:02 AM

Some important things to consider before looking at specific units -

As most above have said, think through the commute and what is important: close to metro station? nearest metro station with parking? drive to work? hours? with or against traffic? parking situation at home - street, garage, rented space, etc? hard to overstate that the traffic situation here can take over your life -

Question assumptions and start with 'needs'. Is she alone/sig other/kids/etc. If alone (and even if not) consider some 'alternatives'. Lots of great basements/rooms/shared apts, etc that can be had much more economically than single units. When I moved out here a couple years ago I rented half the basement (south Alexandria) from a nice senior lady in a ritzy neighborhood. Was perfect for me for first year. $900 for place far bigger than a studio with bathroom and off-street parking just ten minutes from my work and no utility bills. Now I'm paying $1300 for 900SF 2BR townhouse in far lesser neighborhood and paying utilities on top of that. Landlord says will raise rent next time lease is up.

If a unit looks too good to be true - rent, amenities, etc -- then take a hard look at safety of the area

Watch Craigslist closely - at least a couple times a day -- good opportunities don't stay on there more than a day

Good luck.

08-01-2012, 10:02 AM	#6
dave Have My Own Room Join Date: May 2011 First Name: Dave Location: Northern VA Posts: 1,180 Trading: (15)	Re: Anybody live in the Alexandria, VA area? Some important things to consider before looking at specific units - As most above have said, think through the commute and what is important: close to metro station? nearest metro station with parking? drive to work? hours? with or against traffic? parking situation at home - street, garage, rented space, etc? hard to overstate that the traffic situation here can take over your life - Question assumptions and start with 'needs'. Is she alone/sig other/kids/etc. If alone (and even if not) consider some 'alternatives'. Lots of great basements/rooms/shared apts, etc that can be had much more economically than single units. When I moved out here a couple years ago I rented half the basement (south Alexandria) from a nice senior lady in a ritzy neighborhood. Was perfect for me for first year. $900 for place far bigger than a studio with bathroom and off-street parking just ten minutes from my work and no utility bills. Now I'm paying $1300 for 900SF 2BR townhouse in far lesser neighborhood and paying utilities on top of that. Landlord says will raise rent next time lease is up. If a unit looks too good to be true - rent, amenities, etc -- then take a hard look at safety of the area Watch Craigslist closely - at least a couple times a day -- good opportunities don't stay on there more than a day Good luck.