cheap apartment in Chevy Chase (full of rats? full of racists?) (Bethesda: for sale, real estate market)

[popsicle_dc]

Hi there, I'll be working in Chevy Chase, Md and thought it was impossible to find something cheap over there with my 50K/year budget. I found a condo in 4242 East West Highway (The Riviera), many units -1 bdr- are renting for 1,000 - 1,100. Since other buildings nearby are over 1,500/month does this mean that there's a problem with the building? Way too many units in the market. It would be really convenient for me, but I'm afraid of having to move 6 months from now.
I'm also worried about race issues in the area. I'm african american and don't want/tolerate to be looked down by neighbors...or having the concierge confuse me with the cleaning lady...

Thanks All!

[MadManofBethesda]

Since you posted this on the D.C. board, I answered it there. But for the edification of readers on this board (in case any are interested in Chevy Chase) I'll repost it here:

I live very close to the Riviera. My DW even has a friend that lives in the building. There is nothing at all wrong with the building; however, you may want to check with the owners of the units that are for rent to ensure that they are in fact full one bedroom units and not studios. I have seen classified ads and flyers when units are for sale and they are listed as "1br" when they are studios.

Other than that, there is nothing to be concerned with. Rents are usually lower when you are renting a condo from an owner than when you are renting an equivalent sized apartment from a commercial establishment. The owner may only be trying to partially offset his or her mortage payment while awaiting for the real estate market to turn around before selling.

If you do end up at the Riviera, try for a unit in the back with a balcony overlooking the Capital Crescent Trail. BTW, you can get on the trail from behind the building and take it directly into downtown Bethesda (about 1/2 mile) or walk or bike all the way to the Georgetown waterfront (about 9 miles).

As fior your question about being an African American: it almost doesn't even merit a response. Suffice it to say that you will not be out of place in Bethesda/Chevy Chase and no one will even take a second look at you.

Let me know if you have any other questions.