Looking to buy: Alexandria or Arlington. Need suggestions for... (Springfield: condo, townhouse)

[hboofer]

I'm some-what young and have lived in the Bailey's Crossroads area for a while, and I'm looking to buy, finally, a nice place in a decent location. Having sold my last house out of state in a dumpy area and at a loss, I've vowed never to let that happen again. However, my funds are limited to about 350k.

I work in Old Town. Ideally, the place would be:

- 2-3 ba/br with decent closet space
- Hopefully a townhouse/condo with a little land to plant a garden
- Place that won't require loads of repairs
- Would be relatively safe (no more gangs!) with really good schools around
- Conveniences near by (nice Giant, good gym, etc.)
- Bikeable to work
- Will appreciate in value

So far what I've seen are over-priced closets like The Grove and the like. Does anyone have any suggestions in the Alexandria/ Shirlington/ Pentagon City-type area of NoVa?

[Iaponte]

I would like to suggest the Alexandria (kingstowne) or Springfield (Japonica) - offers shuttle service to the Springfield metro!

[Iaponte]

Description of an available unit in Japonica: Three finished levels. 3 BR, 2.5 BA (2d half bath being completed) townhouse features main level living room with hardwoods, fireplace; trees in back. TH has been completely painted and new carpet installed. One-car garage. New stove, newer top-line washer and dryer. Greenwood community with tennis courts, swimming pool, tot lots, plus shuttle service to the Springfield metro!

[Shed]

How about Del Ray? I haven't checked the prices lately but there could be some deals.