July 16, 2008

What You Get for the Money: Alexandria (22305 and 22302)

If you’re longing to live in Alexandria but don’t have a mint to spend, you can definitely take heart. Although there were numerous properties in the high $800s, $900s, and up, there was also a plentiful assortment of homes $700k and under. You might not get a huge house for under $700k, but you’ll likely get a whole lot of charm, coziness, and great neighbors. 

The two properties I’m comparing this week are both priced right under $700k. The first one is in Beverley Hills (22305); the second is in Jefferson Park (22302). They are less than a mile from each other (.85, to be precise), which means they are both close to Old Town, the Pentagon, Reagan National Airport, and I-395. Both made Washingtonian’s 2005 list of family-friendly places to live, and Jefferson Park was included in Northern Virginia Magazine’s 2006 list of 50 Great Neighborhoods. 

Both homes have been updated and renovated, but the Beverley Hills house wins the kitchen competition – there is literally nothing left to do in there. The Beverely Hills house also has a larger lot (by more than 1000 sq. ft.) But if you’re more concerned with the indoor space, the Jefferson Park house might be a better bet; it has 4 beds and 3.5 baths, while the Beverley house only has 3 beds and 2 baths. Both have off street parking. 

Whichever house suits your needs better, each has something different to offer and, at less than $700k, both are sure to retain their value. Happy hunting!

Image: Waterfront views in Old Town Alexandria

Beverley Hills
3203 Old Dominion Blvd, 22305
Price: $699,000
3 bd/2 ba; sq. ft. unavailable
Lot size: 6,760 sq. ft 

Jefferson Park
2411 Cameron Mills Rd, 22302
Price: $698,900
4 bd/3.5 ba; sq. ft. unavailable
Lot size: 5,750 sq. ft.