Carlyle Towers Rentals

What every renter should know about Carlyle Towers

As the primary mover and shaker at Condo Alexandria, I field calls every single day from renters who are interested in condominiums. The names and locations change but there are a few fundamental misconceptions that are so common, I feel the need to write this note for the general benefit of the world at large.

It looks like an apartment, but it's not an apartment.

First of all, a renter needs to understand the difference between an apartment and a condominium. An apartment, or any multi-family dwelling, is owned by a single entity. Most usually the owner is a company, but more rarely an individual owns the property. Employees of the apartment complex, or the owner himself, manages the property.

A condominium is different because there are many owners, meaning each unit is individually titled. The owners of a given condominium complex make up something called a condominium association. The association jointly owns the common areas such as the lobby and the lawns. The association oversees the management of the property.

There is no rental office: you need an agent.

When you rent at an apartment complex, you'll see a big sign that says "RENTAL OFFICE". That office is staffed by folks whose job it is to explain to you why that particular building is the greatest place to live in the world. They are generally helpful and pleasant and they will gladly show you a model apartment and give you an idea of what is "coming available".

A condominium complex is completely different. The condo office is filled with employees of the condominium association. The employees at the condo office are concerned with the maintenance and security of the building. They could care less where you rent or where you live. In most condominiums in Northern Virginia, staff won't allow you to enter the property and they won't show you any rentals here or anywhere else. The staff has no idea what is available or what is "coming available".

A condominium complex looks like an apartment building on outside, but it's more like a neighborhood full of townhouses or houses. In a neighborhood everyone lives in the same place with similar housing but each person owns their own house. If you want to rent in that neighborhood, you CAN'T do so by banging on people's doors and asking them to see their house. Nobody in the neighborhood knows "what's coming available". If you want to tour a house in a neighborhood, you need a real estate agent. An agent costs the renter nothing, but can be of great service to you. [click for more about this]

It's the same in a condo. If you don't have an agent you can't see a condo, or any private residence. Homeowners don't want strange people walking through their house and they don't want to make allowances unless a real estate agent knows their is a possibility that you can afford the rent.

There are always other options.

If you don't want a rental agent, you do have a choice. You can rent from an apartment complex---less hassles on the front end, more hassles on the back end. Or, you can take your chances on Craigslist. My advice: Craigslist is great for room shares, but doesn't work so well for grown-ups.

The most important thing every renter should know about condos.

Then, the last and most important thing any renter should know about condos: in today's market a condo will cost you a few dollars more each month than a rental. But a condo will cost you less on an annual basis.

How is this possible? Condo owners pay association fees and mortgage. Taken together, a first time buyer with a low down payment will have payment slightly higher than a rental. But each year we all file taxes. Renters take a standard deduction. But, property owners can deduct real estate taxes, mortgage interest, depreciation and certain other expenses from their taxes. This can amount to thousands of real dollars in your pocket each year.

Don't forget, next year, the renter will get a rent increase. Next year, but if you buy, the mortgage will be the same.

It's your choice, but this is the best time to buy in the last 5 years.

view to the Potomac

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Featured Rentals

Here are a few featured rentals from around the area. Click here to search rentals around Alexandria.

$1,900 :: 2121 Jamieson Ave #2010, Alexandria VA, 22314

Click headline for more information about this property or to schedule a showing.

1 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 750 sq ft
Lot Size: 0 sq ft
Added: 02/16/10, Last Updated: 03/09/10
Property Type: Residential for Rent, Res. Condo for Rent
MLS Number: AX7257680
Tract: Carlyle Towers
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/9/2010 by 5%

PRISTINE - MOVE IN NOW. Incredible views of DC Skyline, Masonic Temple. Sq. footage of unit does not include enclosed balcony. Washer & dryer, lots of closet space, storage unit, indoor parking space. Carlyle Towers has pool, tennis courts, indoor workout facility. Kitchen is updated & sparkles. Shows beautifully.

Listed with Washington Fine Properties LLC

Brought to you by Will Nesbitt, Condo Alexandria. Call me today at 703 765 0300, or visit my website at www.condo-alexandria.com!

Information deemed to be accurate but not guaranteed on Tuesday, 09, March, 2010 .

$1,850 :: 2151 Jamieson Ave #1711, Alexandria VA, 22314

Click headline for more information about this property or to schedule a showing.

1 beds, 1 full 1 part baths
Home size: 827 sq ft
Lot Size: 0 sq ft
Added: 02/09/10, Last Updated: 03/04/10
Property Type: Residential for Rent, Res. Condo for Rent
MLS Number: AX7254856
Tract: Carlyle Towers

This beautiful 1BR apartment has gorgeous city views. Conveniently located within walking distance to shops, restaurants, grocery stores, movie theaters, parks and metro, you cant beat this Old Town location! The building amenities include an outdoor pool, putting green, tennis courts, a party room and much more. The apartment has spacious living and dining areas plus its own laundry! Must see.

Listed with McEnearney Associates, Inc.

Brought to you by Will Nesbitt, Condo Alexandria. Call me today at 703 765 0300, or visit my website at www.condo-alexandria.com!

Information deemed to be accurate but not guaranteed on Thursday, 04, March, 2010 .

$2,350 :: 2121 Jamieson Ave #1707, Alexandria VA, 22314

Click headline for more information about this property or to schedule a showing.

2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,100 sq ft
Lot Size: 0 sq ft
Added: 02/26/10, Last Updated: 02/26/10
Property Type: Residential for Rent, Res. Condo for Rent
MLS Number: AX7265353
Tract: Carlyle Towers

BRAND NEW FLOORS & PAINT!! New: wood in Kit, DR, LR, tile on balcony & carpet in BRs. Unit features: HIGHER ceilings, 2 master suites, perfect for roommates, home office, etc. Separate DR w/pass through to kitchen, great encl balcony, not incl in 1100 sqft. Walk to 2 metros, Whole Foods, shops, restaurants, movies etc. Enjoy pool, tennis, 2 gyms, putting green & 24-hr security. 1 garage & storage.

Listed with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Brought to you by Will Nesbitt, Condo Alexandria. Call me today at 703 765 0300, or visit my website at www.condo-alexandria.com!

Information deemed to be accurate but not guaranteed on Friday, 26, February, 2010 .

$3,400 :: 2121 Jamieson Ave #709, Alexandria VA, 22314

Click headline for more information about this property or to schedule a showing.

2 beds, 2 full 1 part baths
Home size: 1,415 sq ft
Lot Size: 0 sq ft
Added: 02/24/10, Last Updated: 02/24/10
Property Type: Residential for Rent, Res. Condo for Rent
MLS Number: AX7263346
Tract: Carlyle Towers

Light filled two bedroom, 2.5 bath condo. Sun room, den, seperate dining room, living room and fantaastic amenities. Two gyms, outdoor pool, tennis, gym, etc. Extra storage.

Listed with Wallace & Associates

Brought to you by Will Nesbitt, Condo Alexandria. Call me today at 703 765 0300, or visit my website at www.condo-alexandria.com!

Information deemed to be accurate but not guaranteed on Wednesday, 24, February, 2010 .

Posted on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:30:22 GMT

Washington Square Rental

Washington Square Townhouse for Rent $2250 / 2BR2FB - Olde Town Alexandria Condo
Rent: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Parking: Pet Policy: Deposit: Available: Minimum Lease:	2250 / Month Two plus Den Two Full, 0 Partial Garage plus public street Case by case One months rent Vacant 12 Months

Location 622 S Columbus, Alexandria, VA. Washington Square, walking distance to GW Parkway, Route 1 and the Beltway. Bus service to King Street Metro Description Beautifully renovated kitchen, high ceilings, den, and prime Olde Town location. Bus stops within walking distance. Rental Features Storage Space Patio Garage Parking Ample Public Parking In Unit Washer/Dryer Electric Heat Pump Central A/C Electric Hot Water Heater Walking distance to Metro Contact Ben Fornshell for more information.