Housing options for Ft. Belvoir (Alexandria, Burke: rental, townhouse, to buy)

[BostonBoy]

Hi we are a military family moving to Ft. Belvoir in July. Looking to Rent ($2000 month) for a year before trying to buy due to market unease. Any suggestions on the best combo of location, schools, commute to Belvoir? Children are entering 1st and 8th grade respectively, so H.S. in area is also a major condsideration. Burke seems attractive as well as Alexandria...Comments suggestions welcome. Thank You ~ BostonBoy

[duckymom]

I have been living in Springfield/Burke area for the past 5 years and just moved to the Alexandria/Mt. Vernon area. i would suggest that you look move in the Mt. Vernon area. You would have a very short drive to work, close to hospital, PX, commisary etc. Also there are a lot of military families in Mt. Vernon, and I have found that people are very friendly. I also think you get more for your money. In Burke/ Spriingfield you will pay anywhere from 1600 to 2700 a month for a townhouse with a small yard. I am paying 1500 a month for a single family house on a full acre of land. The schools in both areas are good. You should also look at the fairfax county website. Good luck!!

[Herbbach]

Dear BostonBoy,

I just happened to be looking at Google and your message was listed.

I am a local realtor (retired from the FAA) who also happens to have a town house available for rent in July. The current family who has rented from me for the last 6 years, is moving with the Missile Defense Agency to Huntsville, Al. It's a 3 BR, 2 full 2 1/2 baths, with fireplace. It's an end unit and the address is 6229 Rathlin Dr. in Springfield, VA. The rental includes membership in community pool. The townhouse sits near the top of a hill, and backs to the woods.

Elementary school:Keene Mill,
Middle School:Washington Irving,
High School: West Springfield

I would certainly be happy to rent it to you for $2000, but the going rate for a town house is closer to $1750 w/o utilities. Let me know if you are interested.

Regards,

Herb Bachner
tel. (703) 965-6702
Herbbach@aol.com