WHERE TO LIVE

from Newcomers Guide 2021-2022

WHETHER YOU’RE AN URBANITE seeking

a condo within walking distance of downtown or you’re a lawn lover craving a slice of suburban heaven, Montgomery County’s housing stock is full of options. And newcomers will be thrilled to learn that the Greater Washington, D.C., housing market has remained relatively stable through the spikes and downturns seen in other parts of the country. But before you start your housing hunt, check out these options.

RENTING VS. BUYING

All the regular rules apply when it comes to renting vs. buying in Montgomery County. Buying can provide a sense of control and ownership, while renting can give uncertain newcomers a little time to learn about the area before jumping into the real estate market. Those who decide to rent have a plethora of options, from high-rise apartments near Metro stations to rent-to-own houses in suburban neighborhoods.

Either way, new residents may want to contact a real estate agent to guide their search. Many agents in the area are happy to take renters as clients, knowing that they may one day turn into homebuyers.

URBAN LIVING

Area real estate agents say walkability is a major factor for many buyers. There are plenty of neighborhoods in downtown Bethesda, Rockville and Silver Spring where residents can travel by foot to shops, restaurants and public transportation. Living near a Metro station can cut down on transportation costs and frustrations, as the region’s notoriously bad traffic can be a stumbling block for commuters.

LUXURY CONDOS AND TOWNHOMES

Young professionals and empty nesters seeking housing with less yard work and maintenance may want to check out the variety of services offered at many luxury condo and apartment communities in the Bethesda area.

HISTORIC CHARM

Many communities in Montgomery County were built in the 1800s as weekend escapes from the District. Thanks to efforts by history-minded homeowners, many of the area’s original houses have been well preserved. As a result, historic homes abound in the Bethesda area. Gingerbread Victorians and cute bungalows line the streets of the tiny town of Garrett Park and of historic districts such as the West End in Rockville, among other communities.

WIDE-OPEN SPACES

Living a short drive from the White House doesn’t mean the absence of open space. Drive through the upscale community of Potomac and you’ll see horse farms and tony mansions on spacious lots. Nearby Cabin John offers an eclectic vibe and easy access to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Those willing to drive a bit farther can also enjoy rural charm within the county’s borders in communities such as Poolesville and Darnestown.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND SUBURBIA

Not everyone dreams of exploring wide-open spaces from their backyard or walking to get coffee in the morning at an upscale café. Lovers of cul-de-sacs and residential atmospheres will find themselves at home in scores of neighborhoods in the area. And commuters don’t necessarily have to trade ease of transport for their big lawns—the county’s Ride On buses circulate through most area neighborhoods and travel to nearby Metro stops.

Families with school-age kids will love the wide variety of neighborhoods that include some of the top public schools in the state and country. In 2021 U.S. News & World Report named Bethesda’s Walt Whitman High School as the top school in Maryland, with several other county high schools earning high spots in state and national rankings. n

All dogs enjoy multiple outdoor walks everyday. Boarding in playrooms or private runs. Crates only on request. Professional Grooming, Show clips to Pet clips. 24 Hour Security VETERINARIANS KNOW US AND RECOMMEND US. Collecting pet food for area food banks.