Andrew Pariser

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The Most Expensive Neighborhoods in D.C.

With their prime locations, history, and real estate options, these five neighborhoods in D.C. have been named as the most luxurious by Washingtonian.com. Let’s take a closer look.

1. Great Falls (22066)

    Fans of British period drama Downton Abbey (and outdoor space) will love Great Falls with its beautiful acreages, sprawling mansions, and winding two-lane roads. The average size of a home in Great Falls fall somewhere between 10,000 o 12,000 square feet, and the median sold price is $1,060,000. Public transportation is unheard of in this wealthy community.

    Who lives here? A variety of people, from powerful lobbyists and lawyers to tech executives and defense contractors.

2. McLean (22101)

    Known as one of D.C.’s power centers, McLean real estate is characterized by a mix of imposing older homes and newer McMansions. The median sold price is around $988,000. It’s a community where families root for their kids’ sports teams, making it rather warm and wholesome. You can trust your neighbor to take your kid to school for you, if you happen to live here.

    Who lives here? Families, mostly, due to McLean’s charming, suburban appeal. Professionals working in D.C. and Tysons also call McLean home.

3. The Chevy Chases (20015 and 20815)

    Whether it’s D.C.’s version of Chevy Chase or Maryland’s, rest assured both Chevy Chases are highly desired and expensive. Chevy Chase MD (median sold price: $885,000) is known for its collection of handsome brick houses—the favored homes of Washington elites. And although Chevy Chase DC (median sold price: $949,000) is its less aristocratic brother, the neighborhood boasts a community of respectable profssionals. Both Chevy Chases are also known for access to some of the best schools in the area.

    Who lives here? Chevy Chase MD has long attracted the likes of established Washington families, while Chevy Chase DC is home to successful professionals.

4. North Arlington (22207)

    Although homes in North Arlington don’t have the seemingly endless space available in Great Falls, the neighborhood boasts a convenient location. Real estate, with a median sold price of $887,500, is mostly made up of brick Colonials, but the commute is fantastic. Parks, shopping, schools, outdoor recreation—they’re all located mere minutes away.

    Who lives here? In general, people who would rather pay top dollar to be near the center of everything. After all, stress-free commutes are a rarity these days.

5. Georgetown (22207)

    Georgetown is all about historic charms and prestige. It’s one of D.C.’s most established neighborhoods, and the housing stock is unparalleled. From simple clapboard homes to impressive estates, Georgetown has just about everything, and people seems to agree that the median sold price of $875,000 is totally worth it.

    Who lives here? Young, well-to-do families, professionals—it’s a diverse community that has all the makings of the perfect urban neighborhood.

Everything you should know about Petworth

For avid followers of the Curbed Cup, it might have come off as a surprise when Petworth was crowned the best neighborhood in the city in 2015. One thing is for sure, however—the uninitiated will definitely fall in love with Petworth’s residential charms, from neighborhood joints to interesting characters that make life in this enclave a little more colorful.

Where you’ll find calm and diversity in the city

Washington D.C. is a bustling urban metropolis, and calm oases may be hard to come by especially for the newbies. This is where Petworth comes in. Still located within the city, the neighborhood is known for its slow-paced, calm atmosphere and friendly community. It’s a place where you can make lifelong friends out of your neighbors, which is composed of a diverse mix of people from different walks of life.

Full of interesting surprises

Unbeknownst to many, Petworth has its own fair share of stories that will definitely pique your interest. For one, President Lincoln used to vacation and relax at Lincoln’s Cottage. The church that currently stands at the corner of 8th and Shepherd was actually once a synagogue. Petworth is also home to attractions listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Armed Forces Retirement Home and the Rock Creek Cemetery, which dates back to the early 18th century.

Petworth’s “porch culture”

A family-friendly neighborhood, Petworth is the kind of place where you’ll want to spend some time in your front porch. It’s up to you to decide what you’ll do, of course. Greet people walking down the street, play your favorite instrument, or just enjoy a nice glass of your preferred drink. It’s a great place to settle down and raise your kids.

There is still so much more to know about Petworth. Read our area guide for more information, or get in touch with us today to explore the neighborhood.

Universities and Colleges in and around D.C.

Washington D.C. is the best place to be to study politics and history. You’ve got four well-renowned universities in D.C., along with several topnotch colleges where you can explore the world of higher education. No wonder the capital is breeding ground for aspiring change-makers from all over the world.

Georgetown University

Georgetown University enjoys a stellar reputation as the highest ranked university in D.C! Older than the neighborhood where it’s located (Georgetown, if you’re still not familiar), Georgetown University is a research-driven institute and counts several renowned politicians and luminaries as part of its faculty. Famous alumni include Mary Jordan, Bill Clinton, and Jose Manuel Barroso.

George Washington University

Named after George Washington, this private research university is ranked 65th in the U.S. and caters to a student body of over 21,000. Political activity of more progressive inclinations is particularly active among the student population, but you’ll find other organizations that cater to other interests (like sports!)

Some of the schools that make up George Washington University include School Business, Columbian College of Arts & Sciences, Elliott School of International Affairs, and Milken School of Public Health.

American University

Focused on a liberal arts curriculum, the private American University is particularly renowned for its programs in public affairs, international law and human rights, and public policy. It’s also known as one of the most politically active schools in the country, even taking the top spot from 2008 to 2012, according to The Princeton Review.

Studying here, you’ll get to mingle with a very internationally diverse student population. You’ll also get to brush shoulders once in a while with visiting foreign dignitaries.

Howard University

One of the top 125 universities in the country, Howard University is a historically black institution that was established in 1867. It sits on an impressive campus encompassing approximately 250 acres, leaving plenty of space to pursue your degree in different programs such as business, communications, arts and sciences, dentistry, and education.

Looking to explore more of the educational opportunities available in Washington, D.C? Click here to learn more.

The best of D.C.’s family-friendly neighborhoods

Washington D.C. is a great place to raise a family, but some neighborhoods in the capital are just better than others. Let’s get to know the cream of the crop of D.C.’s family-friendly communities.

1. Georgetown

Family Fun

    The oldest neighborhood in D.C. (it was founded in the mid-18th century), Georgetown is an established neighborhood known for its distinctive 18th century architecture.

    For such a relatively compact area, Georgetown is packed with over 500 stores that cater to a variety of needs and services. Great education is also located nearby, and you’ll be pleased to learn that the neighborhood has community partnerships with George Washington University and Georgetown University.

2. Glover Park

    Due to its tight-knit community and support system, Glover Park is well-known to be a very family-friendly community. Aside from being the home of a topnotch school (Stoddert Elementary), Glover Park is also home to a collection of community gardens, softball fields, and more. Last but not the least, Georgetown is located right around the corner.

3. DuPont Circle

    Home to a relatively young and well-educated community, DuPont Circle is another family-friendly neighborhood you should check out. Amidst its expensive townhomes are more affordable real estate options, walkable streets, and a growing art and food scene. You’ll need to check the schools, however, if they can accommodate your child once you move to the neighborhood.

4. Chevy Chase

    D.C.’s Chevy Chase, one of the first “streetcar suburbs,” is one of the cleanest and safest neighborhoods in the capital. Lafayette Elementary, a highly rated school, is located in the area, and working parents will find the public transportation commendable.

5. Friendship Heights

    It’s not hard to make a friend at Friendship Heights, a family-friendly neighborhood lined with spacious apartments and upscale retail boutiques. Aside from the great commute, Friendship Heights boasts well-maintained and walkable streets and access to the efficient train system. Janney Elementary is located in close proximity to Friendship Heights, and you can easily walk your kids to school.

Learn more about D.C.’s wonderful neighborhoods by checking out our comprehensive area guides.

New developments in Woodley Park, Kalorama, Columbia Heights

Blueprint

Here are some of the latest additions (or soon-to-be additions) to the real estate market in the neighborhoods of Columbia Heights, Kalorama, and Woodley Park.

Woodley Park

blueprint1. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel Redevelopment – Currently a planned project, this hotel redevelopment plan will transform the hotel into a condo or rental.

2. Wardman Tower – Already under construction and currently selling units, Wardman Tower will be a 32-unit condo development located in Woodley Park.

3. The Woodley – A rental development, The Woodley features 212 units. Developers are currently leasing up.

4. South Cathedral Mansions – Currently under construction, South Cathedral Mansions will feature 165 units available for rent.

Kalorama

1. The Calistoga – Developed by MMG Development, The Calistoga is a 5-story residential building with 9 condo units and a restored historic garage billed as the oldest garage in Washington, D.C.

2. Kalorama West – This 117-unit apartment building in Kalorama Road is currently under construction.

Columbia Heights

1. Victoria – Victoria has 16 units up for sale and features access to private courtyards and underground parking, among other amenities. Units range from one- to two-bedroom units to duplex penthouses.

2. The Apex – The Apex is a 20-unit condo development currently under construction in Columbia Heights. It’s strategically located near several establishments and the Columbia Heights metro stop.

3. The Helicopter Factory – A planned development, The Helicopter Factory will feature 15 condo units (14 duplex units and one three-level residence).

4. Lawrence House – A boutique condo currently under construction in Columbia Heights, Lawrence House will feature 30 units, two of which are penthouses with dens and roof decks.

5. 2914 Sherman Avenue NW – A project from Madison Investments, this new condo development under construction will house 15 two-bedroom units and 5 one-bedroom units.

6. 1315 Clifton Street NW – A planned rental development, this six-story project will feature 159 residential units available in different price points. Underground parking spaces and bicycle parking spots are just some of the planned amenities.

7. Meridian Hill Hall Redevelopment – Once a part of the Howard University campus, the Meridian Hill Hall is set to be renovated into a residential building with 200 rental units.

For more information on other real estate developments in the D.C. area, check out this page.

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Andrew Pariser, Realtor®
Licensed in DC, MD, & VA
  • Pin Icon Address: Long & Foster Realtors, Inc.
    Woodley Park Office
    2300 Calvert Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20008
  • Phone Icon Direct: 410.371.0581
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