Thoughts on Parc East or Montebello condos - Alexandria? (apartments, renting)

[emmie1]

Does anyone have any information about the Montebello condos off Route 1 in Alexandria or Parc East Condos on Martha Custis (Alexandria as well)? Candid feedback would be appreciated!

[pcity]

I knew someone who lived in Montebello. The apartments are nice, though the appliances are old. It's safe (gated) and convenient (Metro shuttle). They have a lot of amenities, like a pool, walking trail and a small bowling alley. It's on a hill, and a bit of a hike from Route 1, which makes for nice views and a feeling of being totally cut off from the rest of the neighborhood. I think that, if you're OK with the gated community aspect, it's a nice place.

It's kind of interesting in that they just don't build gated, totally cut-off communities like Montebello anymore. The only other place like it nearby is Watergate at Landmark, which I think was built around the same time (late 70's-early 80's).

Don't know much about Parc East. I've biked around there before and it seems like a nice neighborhood. It's close to Arlandria, which isn't a nice neighborhood, but I don't think the crime comes over to that area. One nice thing about Parc East is that it's really close to Shirlington, just over the pedestrian/bike bridge.

[notinnj]

Parc East is in the city of Alexandria. It is in a nice neighborhood. Like pcity mentioned, it isn't far from Arlandria, but it is definitely insulated from any of Arlandria's (overstated) woes. Montebello has an Alexandria mailing adress but is actually in Faifax County, although there is little practical difference between the two jurisdictions in terms of renting.

[jerseygirl111549]

Have been visiting ParcEast for 38 years........never a problem with safety, great access to major highways and Shirlington. Also great if you work at the Pentagon or the new building the Army is getting ready to occupy about 3 miles south on 395.
Building itself is kept immaculate, pool and tennis court are never crowded; balconies, especially on the upper floors w/southwest exposure can't be beat. If I had a reason to live in the DC area,. I wouldn't hesitate to look at ParcEast!

[gophergrl]

Wow~~ Parc East! Just visited someone there. Incredible views -- wonderful sun exposure & sunsets. Don't feel like cooking dinner? Easy walk to Shirlington and dozens of restaurants. Hard to believe you're only minutes from the District.