1. Gated community
    There is no "cut-thru" traffic. Twenty-four hour guards maintain security at the gates.
2. Beautiful Grounds
    Over thirty acres of trails, woods and well tended grounds.
3. Walk to Metro
    A short patch connects Montebello to the Huntington Metro.
4. Community Center
    Enjoy swimming, work-outs, and other activities on the community center .
5. Clubhouse
    Dinner and lunch are served in the clubhouse.
6. Market
    The community of Montebello would not be complete without a market.
7. On-site Drycleaner
    In addition to in-unit laundry facilities, every resident at Montebello has access to a community dry cleaner.
8. Balcony
    Every unit at Montebello has its own balcony---the perfect place to watch the sun rise or set.
9. Walking trails
    Take an afternoon stroll along the Montebello's perimeter or venture along the nearby park trails.

To see what's available for sale right now at Montebello check here.

The Midtown Station Alexandria is a high-rise condominium community just outside Old Town Alexandria. The Midtowns is located on Huntington Avenue directly across the street from the lower entrance to the Huntington Metro. This proximity to the metro means that you can access many of Northern Virginia and DC's best attractions without moving your vehicle. These condos are one metro stop from the AMC Hoffman at Eisenhower Metro and two stops from King St. at Old Town. In Old Town the King Street Trolley (free) can drop you off anywhere between the Metro and the Potomac.

The Midtowns is a beautiful building with excellent vistas. It's on the Metro and close to I-495 (the Beltway). There are bargains to be found here, but you have to know where to look. Although the Midtowns still has an on-site staff for sales of new condos, the on-site staff will not show you any pre-owned condos at the Midtowns. If you're thinking of buying a brand new condo you might find this article by the Boston Condo Guy helpful. The short story is that having you're own representation doesn't cost you anything, so you would do well to contact Will Nesbitt of Condo 1 Alexandria to tour the property at any time.

The hallmarks of a Midtown condo are expansive windows, many with pleasant city, river and sunset views. The kitchen features Italian cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and gas cooking. Berber carpeting is standard as are the stylish and modern light fixtures. The bathroom has equally stylish fixtures with generous oversize tubs. Many units have built-in computer nooks.

The common areas are very sleek and stylish with broad hallways and tiled floors. The club room has an amazing city view and is well-proportioned with stylish furnishings. There is a rooftop deck (half-way up the building) with recreational amenities such as propane grills, pool and shaded picnic tables. The focus of the rooftop deck is an expansive swimming pool with sundeck, Jacuzzi and beautiful landscaping. On the same level the fitness room is ready with tread mills, work out machines and more, all beside a wall of windows.

The lobby has a view of the Huntington Metro entrance and features a bright new cyber cafe with high-speed Internet access. The front desk is attended and access to the building and the garage is controlled. The garage has a structured parking scheme with reserved spaces and there is guest parking outside.

There are several condo communities in this neighborhood, the most obvious being the Huntington Club, the Hunting Creek Club and Montebello. All three developments are much older and somewhat cheaper. If you're seeking a bargain you probably will prefer the Huntington Club. Montebello offers a gated community and famed amenities. Hunting Creek Club offers views that equal or exceed the Midtowns in a structure that lacks the appeal and newness of the Midtowns.

• Self-search condos at Midtown or call Will Nesbitt with Condo 1 Alexandria at 703 765 0300.
  

Montebello is hidden behind a veil of foliage ensuring the peace and privacy of all residents. Montebello condominiums are within walking distance of the metro, but still offer a secluded private retreat for residents.

Montebello is well hidden behind a canopy of trees at Mount Eagle.

Views

The building site at Montebello was selected not only for its proximity to Old Towne and the Metro, but also because of the commanding views afforded on the hilltop. The four towers of Montebello are 16 floors tall each with its own unique view.

North facing units look down upon Alexandria's rich skyline.

To the west the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains
and a view toward Huntington Metro and Mount Eagle Park.

Watch the sunrise in the east and south over the Potomac River.

Parks & Grounds

Montebello is surrounded by beautiful parks and grounds.

In the autumn watch the leaves turn from your secure perch at Montebello.

All summer flowers bloom through-out Montebello.

The grounds are well-maintained and full of color.

Situated near Montebello, Hunting Creek Club, Belle View, and River Towers, Beacon Mall provides everything from basic necessities to high-tech gadgetry.  Amongst the stores you'll find

• Giant Food and Drug
• Chipotle
• Nails America
• Chevy Chase Bank
• Lowes
• Simply Wireless
• and many many more
  

Located within walking distance of the Huntington Metro the Hunting Creek Club is ideally situated with easy access to shopping on Route 1, the Beltway I-495, I-95, and a straight shot through Old Town into D.C.  Hunting Creek Club's amenities include:

• Outdoor Pool
• Sauna
  
• Tennis Courts 
• 24 hour controlled access
• Ample parking

To find out what's available now click here. 

About the Author ---  Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

The Huntington Walk Condos provide an excellent starter home located in an ideal location.  It's location is less than five minutes from:

• Richmond Highway
• 495/95
• The GW Parkway
• The Huntington Metro station. 
• Extensive shopping within ten minutes south on Route 1

Everything is easily within reach from your front door.  These Garden Style Condos offer simple amenities, but with the money you save on a free pool you can do the back stroke through cash in your living room.  They also sport the following

• Electric Heat
• Central Air
• Free Parking
• Low condo fees
• One, two, and three bedroom layouts

About the Author ---  Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 of Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

Situated walking distance from the Huntington Metro station the Hunting Creek Club Hi-rise condos are ideally situated for access to road and rail.  Located just far enough from Jefferson Davis Highway (Route 1) to be buffered from its noise, and with easy access to the Beltway, nearby Alexandria, and an excellent set of stores and shops along route one the Hunting Creek Club is a superb bargain.  Included in the amenities are:

• Swimming Pool
• Tennis Court
• Private Balconies
• 24 hour controlled access

Washer and dryer are located on each floor for easy access, with ample parking for residents and guests.  You'll find everything from studio to two bedroom units available.  See what's available now at Hunting Creek Club.

About the Author ---  Ben Fornshell is a licensed real estate agent with Condo 1 of Alexandria.  To learn more about available rentals and purchases in the area check out our free search.

Huntington Walk is a nice little garden-style condo community on Rt. 1 in Fairfax County across from the Target south of Alexandria. The units are very nicely priced and in good shape. Many have updated kitchens and patios or balconies.  The laundry is common, but the building is nice sturdy brick.


Huntington Run is the younger sister of Huntington Walk. The units are about the same size as Huntington Walk, which is to say as, very generously proportioned. The unit has laundry in the unit, but the building is siding.

Huntington Run and Huntington Walk won't break your budget, but will put you near the Metro.

Click Huntington Run or Huntington Walk for prices and more information.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and Will Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Leave your car behind?  I can help you live in Arlington, Alexandria or Falls Church--without owning a car. Outside the City of Washington DC, Arlington County has the highest number of Metro Subway stops in the Capital Region.

Many large employment centers--Roslyn, Courthouse, Clarendon, Crystal City, The Pentagon, Pentagon City and all of Falls Church City are on either the Yellow or Blue Line of the Metro system  These areas are also loaded with all kinds of residential properties--single family homes, townhouses and condos.   Properties of all different sizes and prices ranges are available for purchase of lease.

Want to get around? Try the healthy alternative--bikes!  Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax counties are  home to one of the nations most extensive system of bike trails.  Want to know a local secret--bikes are permitted on both the subway trains and Metro buses!  Bike lockers are available at most Metro stations

Still need are car from time to time?  Use Zip Car. Hundreds of cars are available at dozens of sites all around the area-Metro stops, shopping centers, the business district, restaurant areas, museums--even the airport. Here is another local secret--Zip Car parking spots are just about as convenient as handicapped parking.

Contact Brian Brooks at Condo 1 Alexandria to find just the right property for you and your family--but not your car!

• All amenities - clubhouse, conference center, residents' lounge, fitness center, sports court, media room, swimming pool and barbecue area
• Master insurance
• Water and sewer
• Common area utilities
• Common area indoor maintenance, including elevators, parking garage and amenity core
• Exterior maintenance, including snow and trash removal
• Full-time property manager
• Controlled access building
• Concierge service

The Midtowns are adjacent to the Huntington Metro and designed with your leisure and enjoyment in mind. Midtown Alexandria Station provides an exceptional selection of amenities. Midtown's wide range of conveniences and comforts allows you to relax, play, celebrate, unwind and even take care of business from home. Some of the benefits of life at the Midtowns include:

• Expansive swimming pool with waterfall and Jacuzzi
• Landscaped sundeck with tiki bar
• Outdoor grill area
• Sports club
• Concierge service
• Stylish clubroom with outdoor terrace and amazing city views
• Cyber cafe with wireless high-speed Internet access
• Guest suite
• 24-hour front desk
• Structured parking
• Controlled-access entry to building and garage
• Bicycle storage
• On-site storage available

Here's a sneak peak inside of one of the coveted gems of Montebello and Alexandria VA. This is the place to live because this condo

• is within walking distance of the metro;
• enjoys all the benefits of Montebello's many amenities;
• has an jaw-dropping view of the city AND the Potomac;
• is more affordable than many condos offering much less.

The balcony has sweeping views of the Potomac south of Alexandria and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

The balcony also offers commanding views of the Carlyle District and Old Town Alexandria including the George Washington National Masonic Memorial.

It's difficult to tell from this picture, but seated at the desk in the den, one can easily see the Washington Monument and other landmarks in Washington DC.

That same den provides the perfect work-station for telecommuting or just browsing the web.

Light streams into the dining room in this unit.

The kitchen has more than enough room for a breakfast nook and the gourmet chef.

The bedroom is well served by a master bath and has a bedside TV for easy relaxing at the end of the day.

Here are a few pictures I recently snapped at the Huntington Club in Alexandria VA / Fairfax County just outside Old Town and the Beltway.

This is looking up-hill at the 3 BR's and townhouses at the top of the community.

Here's 2626. I currently have a great deal for rent there. A two-bedroom condo with all utilities included: walk to the metro for less than $1400. Contact us for more information about this condo for rent.

Most units at Huntington Club have a balcony. Some units have a patio.

The patios can be quite pleasant and the community is generally very barbecue-friendly.

The children's play-ground is quite nice. The community has a basketball court for those who are interested.

The trees and flowers around the buildings are quite nice.

Huntington Club has many interesting architectural and landscaping details.

Walk to the Huntington Metro from Huntington Walk?

Huntington Walk is a 7 minute walk from the Huntington Metro. It is well served by Fairfax County Connector and the REX buses that regularly come down Rt. 1. Huntington Walk is a short drive from Old Town in Groveton near Beacon Hill Mall and shops such as Target, Giant, Petsmart, Panera, Outback, Chili's, TGIFridays, Famous Dave's and more.

Two Bedrooms for $1099 monthly!

I'm featuring a first floor unit that has been renovated with a new kitchen and new appliances. The kitchen and the dining areas feature ceramic tile floors. This 2 BR is currently for rent or for sale. The rent is $1099 monthly and there is possibly owner financing on a sale.

This unit has a double-sized balcony/patio. Laundry facilities are next door on the same floor. The unit has a large storage locker.

This is a 2 bedroom unit. The bedrooms and the living room have brand-new carpeting.

Montebello was built on a promontory overlooking the Potomac River. This knob, called Mount Eagle, has such a commanding view that it was used as a fort during the US Civil War.

The ridge upon which Montebello sits is part of an important geological feature that is tied to the "Fall Line". This ridge starts at Great Falls VA and runs along the Potomac all the way to Mt. Vernon. Much of the area's most valuable real estate is sits on this ridge. From the hieghts of Rosslyn to the Iwo Jima Memorial, to Robert E. Lee's Arlington House, to Arlington's Ridge Road to Belle Haven, this Ridge overlooks the Potomac.

The knob at Montebello is often called Mt. Eagle and is shared by Mount Eagle Park and the Huntington Metro.

As a result of Montebello's perch, many units have sweeping views of the surrounding area. Depending upon the unit's position in the complex, you'll see the Potomac River, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, Old Town Alexandria, the USPTO, the Monuments and Capitol or Alexandria's West End and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Montebello is located on the Yellow Line not far from Alexandria. The amenities of Montebello are geared to both active lifestyles and true relaxation. It's resort-style living ... every day.

• Parks & Grounds
  • Trails
  • Playgrounds
  • Gazebo
  • Picnic Areas
  • Parking
• Security
  • 24-hour security
  • gated community
• Indoor Activities
  • billiards
  • bowling alley
  • bridge room
  • club room
  • dance/yoga/aerobics studio
  • hobby rooms
  • ping-pong
• Convenience & Services
  • community shuttle
  • convenience store
  • dry cleaner
  • hair salon
  • path to metro
• Party Rooms & Common Areas
  • restaurant
  • party room
  • party deck
  • lobbies
• Health & Fitness
  • exercise equipment
  • sauna
  • tennis
• Pools
  • indoor pool
  • outdoor pools
  • hot tub

Since September of 1985, Fairfax County has provided an alternative to WMATA's Metrobus called the Fairfax Connector. The Fairfax Connector began operation in the southern end of Fairfax County from Huntington Metro Station to Mount Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Today the Connector has more than fifty routes providing public transportation to most of Fairfax County. The northern end of the county including Reston and Herndon is now well served by buses. Riders pay fares in by

• cash (exact change only);
• valid transfer tickets or tokens;
• bus pass cards from regional bus systems;
• Virginia Railway Express (VRE) passes;
• Translink passes or;
•  with Metro SmarTrip cards.

The basic fare for a bus trip is usually a dollar, but certain express routes range up to three dollars. When transferring from Metrorail transfer, fares are discounted significantly. The dollar fare is discounted to 35 cents (exact change) with a transfer ticker and the three dollar fair is discounted to $2.10 exact change. Pennies are not accepted as fare. Drivers do not carry cash and do not make change.

Fares for seniors are discounted to either $0.50 or $1.00. Seniors get free fare with a Metrorail transfer. Up to two children under age 5 may ride for free with a paying adult. The disabled ride free on all routes.

The are are a number of simple restrictions and rules on the Fairfax Connector. Smoking, eating, drinking and playing radio or video devices without earphones are strictly prohibited. Strollers must be folded on the bus. Service animals are permitted on the bus. Other small animals are permitted only if transported in a secure container.

Bus transfer tickets or tokens are issued FREE to customers paying fares with cash or tokens. Transfers are valid for two additional hours from time of boarding for an unlimited number of rides. A transfer cannot be redeemed for another transfer. VRE, Translink and bus passes serve as transfers.

For three dollars, a rider can purchase a regional one day bus pass. This pass is valid for an unlimited number of rides on local routes of participating regional bus systems on the day purchased. The one-day pass has a value of $1.25 per trip when used on express routes. The one day pass expires at midnight, Sunday-Thursday and at 2 a.m., Friday and Saturday.

North Fairfax County Schedules : Fairfax Connector bus routes serving Fairfax County Government Center, Herndon, Reston, Tysons Corner, Crystal City, Pentagon including service to the West Falls Church-VT/UVA, Dunn Loring/Merrifield, and Vienna-Fairfax/GMU Metrorail Stations.

South Fairfax County Schedules : Fairfax Connector bus routes serving Belle View, Fort Hunt, Fullerton Industrial Park, Kingstowne, Richmond Highway, Springfield, Tysons Corner, Pentagon including service to the Huntington, Van Dorn Street, Franconia-Springfield, and Dunn Loring/Merrifield Metrorail Stations.

Schedules for Mobile Devices - Get up to date schedules for Northern Virginia area transits services delivered to your handheld device by CommuterPage.com.

Fairfax Connector Fare Chart

Fares are subject to change without notice. These fares were last updated January 2008 and as of November 15th they are still presumed to be (but not guaranteed to be) accurate.

Just south of Alexandria, near the intersection of Richmond Highway and Huntington Avenue, stands a sixteen story brown brick tower called the Hunting Creek Club. The tower shares the neighborhood with a few other high-rises, the most notable being Montebello at the rear on Mount Eagle.

Built in 1972, the architectural appeal of the building is in that awkward stage that occurs long after "new" but just before "vintage". This is of course a personal opinion, and others may disagree, but driving past the building on many occasions, it never struck me as particularly beautiful. But then, my work as a condo sales agent caused me to visit and closely examine the property and several units.

I have come to understand and appreciate the benefits of the Hunting Creek Club. Like many of the quirky condos where I do a lot of business, Huntington Creek Club is NOT for everyone. But, if you are seeking what Hunting Creek offers (proximity to Metro, close to Old Town, convenient access to the Beltway, reasonably affordable), you'll find it here.

Hunting Creek Club is an easy commute to many major job centers: Pentagon, Crystal City, NW & SW Washington DC, Fort Belvoir, Arlington, Springfield and of course Alexandria are all closeby. Tysons Corner is a little problematic, but that's the case for most drivers who don't live in Vienna.

Hunting Creek Club has an unmanned guard station as you enter the front gate. The fact that the guard post is unmanned perhaps speaks most to how the neighborhood has changed since 1972. The parking lot is generous with more than enough room for residents and guests. At the rear of the property is a pleasant pool and tennis court hidden in the woods at the edge of Montebello.

The lobby and common areas were recently redone. They sparkle with new carpets and all is very well maintained. The stylings are a bit formal and in some ways fit with the era in which the building was built. This is not what one might find at the Midtowns or Carlyle Towers. Furniture from Pee Wee's Playhouse is popular in many new condos but not here.

There is no shortage of lifts from the banks of elevators. The elevators are quick and I didn't hear any sound from the machinery.

I've visited many units here. To be brutally frank, the exterior of the building and the turquoise carpet, while well-maintained, sets low expectations when one first visits the Huntington Creek club. But the units themselves are a pleasant surprise. They are generously proportioned, with logical floorplans.  All have plenty of light from big windows.

Some units are dated, and could use a little refurbishing. But, many have been refurbished. Many of the units have been totally refurbished and are as nice as, or better than, anything you'll find in new construction. These gems can be compared to the best at the Midtowns, Montebello or Carlyle Towers. These are a small step up from most of the condos nearby at the Huntington Club.

All in all, I find the floorplans to be logical and very nicely designed. I think most of these are in great shape and I love the views and convenience of Hunting Creek Club.

All this and I haven't yet mentioned my favorite feature at the Hunting Creek Club: the balconies. Every unit I have seen has a very nicely proportioned balcony, with views that are as good as anything in the area. Some of the units look toward Old Town or the George Washington Masonic Memorial, others look toward the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and the Potomac. If you like balconies and views, you have to consider the Huntington Creek Club.

The prices here are generally quite reasonable. Units are generally more expensive than the Huntington Club, less expensive than Montebello and MUCH less expensive than the Midtowns. Check the links below for a search of area real estate.

• Homes for sale in the 22303 zip code.
• Homes for rents in the 22303 zip code

Feel free to contact me at Condo 1 Alexandria at anytime to tour this property or anything in Northern VA.

In 1966 bills were signed that allowed the creation of the Washington Metro Transit Authority in 1967. In the same year, the Huntington Club, a community of garden-style condos, were built between Huntington Ave. and North Kings Highway. About 15 years later, the Washington Metro and Transit Authority opened its first station in Fairfax County. This station was the Huntington Metro and it brought the Yellow Line to the Huntington Club. The Huntington Club is across the street from brand new condos called the Midtowns.

The Huntington Club abuts the Huntington Metro and its residents can easily walk to either entrance of the Metro. The Huntington Club is on a forested ridge which is a prominent geological feature in the region. These hill overlooks Old Town toward Shooter's Hill, the Carlyle Towers and the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Most units at the Huntington Club have balconies (some have patios) and the location often provides pleasant views toward the city.

The Huntington Club has bright and airy units with ample windows. The condo fees include gas, trash, water, sewer, electricity and cable. The grounds are well-maintained and the swimming pool was completely refinished in the Winter of 2008. Prices at the Huntington Club relatively affordable and the neighborhood has a friendly and comfortable feel. I feel quite confident that if you want to live on the Metro, the Huntington Club may be one of the best buys in the National Capitol Region.

Resources

• Huntington-Club.com --- Pictures and information about an affordable condominium community on the metro at Huntington Station
• Huntington-Club.info --- Official information about the Huntington Club condominium association
• Huntington Club Market Update --- A list of properties for sale at the Huntington Club
• Huntington Club Map --- A map of the Huntington Club with real estate for sale at the Huntington Club
  

Jefferson Manor is a townhouse community located across the street from the Huntington Club. This community lies between North Kings Highway at the Huntington Metro and Telegraph Road on its approach to I-495 the Beltway. The hallmark of the neighborhood is that it is relatively quiet despite being a few steps from the Metro and a block from the Beltway. Old Town Alexandria is right around the corner.

Jefferson Manor Park is at the heart of the community. The park is administrated by Fairfax County and has a large field, a picnic shelter and a few groves of trees.

Most of these duplex townhouses were built in the late 1940's, and the construction prices of that era define the neighborhood in many ways. The homes are sturdy, many with all brick exteriors, all with some brick exteriors. The construction is built-to-last with materials and construction practices no longer employed today. Most homes have small porches out front, many have decks in back. The lawns are large by the standards of modern townhouses, and most townhouses here have off-street driveways.

The typical townhouse here has two small bedrooms upstairs with a single full bath. The living room / dining room run the length of the house downstairs. The house has hardwood floors throughout, but the upstairs is often carpetted. Many units have refinished floors that are beautiful.

The kitchens, like many in the 1940's where built with a different philosophy than we see today. Today the kitchen is a part of the living space and is open and connected to the family room or living room. In the 1940's the idea was that a kitchen was like a laundry room. It was small as possible and hidden away where visitors couldn't see the mess.

Downstairs in the basement, most townhouses have a large room that is either a third bedroom or a family room. Many have a second bathroom downstairs and a laundry room at the rear of the home.

This floorplan is found throughout Jefferson Manor, but the years have been kind to these townhouses. Owing to the great location and the ample lawns, many people have built-out rather than move-out. That is to say, many of these townhouses have been expanded, updated and built-on. In some cases the addition rivals the size of the original structure.

A few of these townhouses have been completely tricked out with additions, decks, hot-tubes, large kitchens and so forth. A small number have had little or no care over the years. The brick wears well and newcomers often seek out the neglected homes in the hopes of building-out in a manner that most suits their needs.

The neighborhood remains relevant and sought after because it is so close to the Huntington Metro and because the homes are well-built. Although they were originally nearly identical, there is a wide selection in the neighborhood now. From dilapidated to updated, from tiny to trick-out, from standard to super, there are a lot of choices here on the hill.

For more pictures and prices check here for a look at all properties under $500k in 22303 zip code. Because there is a such a wide range of choices, Jefferson Manor townhouses can sell for anywhere from just under $300k to over $450k. Please contact me with questions or to tour any properties of interest.

Huntington Metro Station (normally just called "Huntington") is the last stop on the southern end of the Yellow Line. The south mezzanine of Huntington station is built into a hillside creating a unique panoramic view of Alexandria. The high rise along the tracks is the Midtown Alexandria Station.

Because of the hill, the station is elevated high above Huntington Avenue, but located below grade at North Kings Highway. The station is accessible via escalator access and via an interesting funicular elevator.

The lower entrance to the Metro is on Huntington Avenue at the foot of the Huntington Club. The bridge in this picture is the metrorail. The bus is one of many that use the Metro as a hub. Unlike many metro stations in Northern Virginia, Huntington has over 4,400 parking spaces accessible from both entrances. Because the parking is ample, many Huntington Club residents drive to Huntington and park in commuter garages.

This is part of series of articles comparing the benefits of condos in close proximity to the Huntington Metro

• Huntington Club
• Hunting Creek Club
• Montebello
• Midtowns

Amenities are an important part of any condo buying decision. Amenities such as a pool and fitness room are pretty standard in most condos, but some condos offer a bit more. It is no different in the four complexes surrounding the Huntington Metro.

No matter how you compare them, the best amenities on the block are at Montebello. Montebello's community center is home to most of these amenities and it is well-maintained and pleasant. Here's a list of some of the features of Montebello.

• Parks & Grounds
  • Trails
  • Playgrounds
  • Gazebo
  • Picnic Areas
  • Parking
• Security
  • 24-hour security
  • gated community
• Indoor Activities
  • billiards
  • bowling alley
  • bridge room
  • club room
  • dance/yoga/aerobics studio
  • hobby rooms
  • ping-pong
• Convenience & Services
  • community shuttle
  • convenience store
  • dry cleaner
  • hair salon
  • path to metro
• Party Rooms & Common Areas
  • restaurant
  • party room
  • party deck
  • lobbies
• Health & Fitness
  • exercise equipment
  • sauna
  • tennis
• Pools
  • indoor pool
  • outdoor pools
  • hot tub

The runner-up in this category is at the Midtowns at Alexandria. The Midtowns have an absolutely gorgeous lobby and lounge (a cyber cafe) on the first floor. The pool at the Midtowns is on a roof deck located half-way up the building. From this party deck, one has great vistas toward the Blue Ridge and the city of Alexandria. There are barbecue stations and more to enjoy here on the deck. The party room is first class and state of the art. It's the type of place you'd be proud to bring guests or enjoy as a resident.

The Huntington Club and the Hunting Creek Club are far behind the first two on this list. These two condos have more pedestrian offerings that are standard fare. Both have a pool, party room and fitness room. (Huntington Club recently renovated their pool.) Hunting Creek Club has a nice tennis court.

This is part of series of articles comparing the benefits of condos in close proximity to the Huntington Metro

• Huntington Club
• Hunting Creek Club
• Montebello
• Midtowns

If you need a balcony or patio in your condo, you've come to the right place. All four of these complexes have balconies or patios in most units. The Huntington Club, the Hunting Creek Club and Montebello all have balconies, patios or verandas in every single unit. Now obviously the new units have slightly more appealing balconies, but to sort them from top to bottom, this comparison focuses on the views.

If a good view is something you absolutely must have from your condo and balcony, you're best chance of finding that view is at Hunting Creek Club. Nearly every unit in the building offers a panorama over the city or toward the Potomac.  Some of these units have absolutely breathtaking views.  You must see them to appreciate them as 400 pixels of cyberspace can't approximate what you'll see.

You'll find good views at all the others. Many decks at Huntington Club look toward the US Patent & Trademark Office, the Carlyle skyline and the Masonic Temple at Shooter's Hill.  Montebello has many pleasant views into and above the treetops.  At the Midtowns you'll find a nice view here and there.  So, it is possible to find good views at any of the others. But at Hunting Creek Club you will consistently find sweeping and pleasant views.

This weekend I toured a number of condos with a client who was prequalified at around $200k. On her budget, she can afford a fixer-upper townhouse in a neighborhood like Bucknell Manor. She briefly considered the idea of buying a duplex townhouse. The idea of a duplex in a quiet 1950's neighborhood is quite appealing. The reality of owning that townhouse involves maintenance and upkeep that a young single gal probably wouldn't enjoy.

So instead we turned to focus on one and two bedroom condos, preferably under $200k. She has a number of choices, all in decent neighborhoods and with an easy commute to Ft. Belvoir. Here's where we stopped:

• Huntington Walk --- Huntington Walk is a tiny little garden-style condo community on Rt. 1 accross from Target. The units are very nicely priced and in good shape. The one she looked at had a nice new kitchen and a patio.  The laundry is common, but the building is nice sturdy brick.
• Huntington Run --- Huntington Run is the younger sister of Huntington Walk. The units are about the same size, which is to say, very generously proportioned. The unit has laundry in the unit, but the building is siding. Huntington Run and Huntington Walk are well within this client's budget. 
• Huntington Club --- Huntington Club is at the Huntington Metro. The condo fees here are a bit high, but the condo fee includes all utilities, heating, cooling and cable TV.  Huntington Club offers a good deal of space and many units are in very good shape here. Some of the beat-up units have remarkably small price tags.
• Midtowns of Alexandria --- Sparkling, new, granite and fine cabinetry is what you'll find here. The roof-top deck is pleasant and the proximity to the metro is unbeatable. Easily the nicest of what's in the budget for this client, the downside is the size: the Midtowns will offer a small studio for slightly more than what my client wants to spend. Of course, every unit in the Midtowns has laundry facilities in the unit.
  
• Hunting Creek Club --- Hunting Creek Club condos are hi-rise apartments with large balconies. Most units here have very pleasant views, hardwood floors and large windows. Hunting Creek Club is in the middle of this client's budget and she was taken by the views afforded by the one bedroom here. When buying a condo it's important to remember that you can always change fixtures and wall coverings, but you can never change the view or the location.  Hunting Creek Club has a laundry room on each floor. The unit that we viewed at Huntington Creek Club has a stunning view of the Potomac. The unit overlooks the Belle Haven Country Club. Hunting Creek Club is about 4 blocks from the Metro, close to Old Town and has easy access to the Beltway. Hunting Creek Club is right in my client's budget.
  
• Montebello Condos --- Montebello condominiums are hi-rises that sit on Mount Eagle at the Huntington Metro. The 37 acres of Montebello are surrounded by fences with 24 hour security roaming and at the gates. One of the big appeals of Montebello is the collection of amenities. Montebello has an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tubs, sauna, work-out rooms, convenience store, dry-cleaning, bowling, billiards, ping-pong and more. Every unit at Montebello has a balcony and most of these balconies are enclosed with sliding glass doors. Montebello has a washer and dryer in the unit. Montebello is walking distance to the Metro and has a shuttle if you don't want to walk. Montebello is at the upper end of my client's budget. 
• Belle View Condos --- Belle View is a gem on the Potomac. These brick garden-style condos are only a few steps from the Belle Haven marina and the Belle View Shopping Center. They have the feel of grandma's house, most with hardwood floors, gleaming kitchens and windows on 2 or three sides. The exterior of Belle View is cute as a button and you can't get a better neighborhood anywhere and for any price. Belle View has laundry in the basement. Belle View is a bike-ride from the Metro and from Old Town, but it well served by the Fairfax Connector. A one-bedroom at Belle View is currently selling at around $210k, which is a little pricey when you consider the size. The price of Belle View puts it in the same category as Montebello and the Midtowns, but with a different value offered.
• River Towers --- Our last stop was River Towers. River Towers is nine-stories high and abuts Belle View condos. River Towers is unique in Northern Virginia because of its greenery. River Towers sits on 26 acres of land and is adjacent to a national park and a county park.  The 1 bedroom units at River Towers are big and bright; many have brand new kitchens. The laundry room is on the first floor and has a dozen or more machines. The prices at River Towers are well-within this client's budget.
  

We took in a lot over the weekend and set an appointment for a closer look on a future weekend. It's a good idea to digest what was seen.  And see how you feel about it after you've seen the properties.

I can think of a number of places that would also fall within this client's budget and still offer a very reasonable commute to Ft. Belvoir.  But I wanted to get her impressions of these places before going on a bit deeper.

This is part of series of articles comparing the benefits of condos in close proximity to the Huntington Metro

• Huntington Club
• Hunting Creek Club
• Montebello
• Midtowns

Hands-down, the easiest walk to the Huntington Metro among these would be the Midtowns of Alexandria. From this building's south lobby one can see the buses coming and going. It's literally only paces from the Midtowns to the Metro. Just cross the street and you're at the Metro station.

The runner-up here is the Huntington Club. Admittedly the Huntington Club bounds with the Metro station, so it is physically closer than the Midtowns. But the Huntington Club is built into the hill at North Kings Hwy and that means that residents have to walk up or down the hill to enter the Metro system. It's definitely a more difficult walk from the Huntington Club than from the Midtowns.

Montebello is a short walk through Mt. Eagle Park to the upper level of the Huntington Station. The walk is definitely longer than the walk from the Huntington Club

The Hunting Creek Club is the furthermost from the Metro of the group. Hunting Creek Club residents must walk about 4 blocks to the Metro entrance.

A buyer recently asked me to do a comparison of condos that are at and around the Huntington Metro. For those who don't know the Huntington Metro is the last stop on the Yellow Line, in Fairfax County Virginia, just outside Alexandria. The Yellow Line is my favorite Metro line because it doesn't have many stops and the ride from Virginia to DC is generally pleasant with nice views of Alexandria and the Potomac. The Huntington Metro has plenty of parking, but it is surrounded by condos and townhouses that have easy access to Huntington's upper and lower levels. The upper level of the Huntington Station exits onto North King's Highway. The lower level of Huntington Station exits onto Huntington Ave. Both exits have plenty of support from buses, but the lower level has better support from taxis.

The condos that I selected for this comparison are Huntingon Club, Hunting Creek Club, the Midtowns of Alexandria and Montebello Condos. I selected these condos because they are within walking distance of the metro. Each of these condos offer different values for different folks. I'm going to break down some of the features of condos in general and then speak to the differentiators between these condos.

• Walk to Metro
• Amenities
• Size / Square Foot Price
  
• Appeal / condition
• Views / Balconies

• For sale --- Live data on all condos for sale in 22303 zip code.
• For rent --- Live data on rentals in 22303 zip code.

• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale less than $500,000 in 22303 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale from $300,000 to $700,000 in 22303 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale over $650,000 in 22303 zip code.

I am one of the few people who are from here who are actually from here.  That is to say I was born in Fairfax and have lived much of my life in Northern Virginia. 

When I got out of the Army and moved back from Northern Virginia, for a time I worked as a government contractor at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which is located at L'Enfant Plaza in Washington DC.  As you may know, parking is pricey and limited at L'Enfant, so the Metro was my best choice for commuting.

Originally, I lived out in the exburbs and would drive the Vienna Metro Station at the end of the Orange Line and then ride the Orange Line to L'Enfant Plaza. It was a long and tiresome commute and I knew I had to move in closer. So I resolved to buy a home much closer to the Metro. 

That's when reality hit my budget.  Yes, I could afford housing near the Vienna Metro, but what I could afford was not up to the standard of what I really wanted to buy. I found the same, very high prices, all along the Orange Line. But I also had an epiphany as I was jostling to work today. I suddenly realized that it's not how far you ride on the Metro, it's how many stops you make. The Orange Line seemed to stop every three blocks. But the Yellow Line and the Blue Line ...

Well, both of these lines cruise quickly out of DC and then into Old Town.  I found that the housing at the end of the Yellow Line fit my budget and my expectations quite nicely.  So that's where I bought and bought and again and remain to this day. Since that time, Old Town, especially in the Carlyle District, has grown up quite a bit, but around Huntington and the neighborhoods of New Alexandria, one can still find neighborhoods that fit the budget and fill the bill quite nicely.  I think there are also a lot of great neighborhoods off the Blue Line, but my personal preference is to be a little closer to the city.