Anyone that lives in Fairlington? Feedback? (Arlington, Springfield: apartments, to rent, condos)

[gdorm]

Hi,
Moving to the Arlington area and I've heard this was a great neighborhood to rent, however I'm wondering since these are older homes, are there problems with noise from neighbors or street?

We're looking for a great walkable neighborhood feel close to activities, work and colleges. However, we'll be moving from our SFH that we just sold and into these townhouse style homes. It will be a big change in privacy but hopefully it will be worth it. Any comments?

[ACWhite]

I don't live there but have a friend who does (you may get better replies from others, later). FWIW--She's very happy there--the only complaint I've heard is that when she has people over, space can be an issue (esp. kitchens are small).

[Jenjen391]

We've rented in Fairlington (townhouse) for 2 years and have loved it. We can walk down to Shirlington for dinner, coffee, groceries. No street noise near us, but we can hear our neighbor's dogs bark. LOUDLY. That's been our only complaint. Otherwise, it's a charming, friendly neighborhood.

[bak06001]

My sister in law lives in Fairlington. I love her place and she is really happy there! A great neighborhood feel with tons of pools, tennis courts etc. All ages.

[statecollege]

I was an original owner after the development was converted from WWII era apartments to condos. I bought a 3-level Clarendon model in 1979 for $38k! After marrying and starting a family, we moved to a SFH in Springfield in 1987, mostly for space reasons. Fairlington was a great place to live, particularly for singles or young marrieds, and from what I know it still is. Shirlington was redeveloped during my time in Fairlington and expansion since has contributed to the desirability of the area. The location relative to work places in Arlington or DC is excellent. All the rooms in my townhouse were small, especially the kitchen, which makes family living difficult. Deck privacy can be an issue, but this was not an important issue for me then. I loved the easy access to a pool as well as walking distance to a variety of stores and restaurants. Access to miles of walking/running and bike trails is nearby. Recreation facilities are close. The noise issue depends on where your unit is located. For example, some are close to I-395 or King Street while others are imbedded in the interior of the subdivision. You don't mention if you will be buying or renting or if you have children. If no children and you plan on renting, I'd go for it. If you plan on a family, you'll likely start thinking of a move back into a SFH before the kid(s) reach school age.

[DC Oldtimer]

Many years ago I dated a fella who lived there. The home was lovely but the electric bills drove him crazy (due to electric heat). You might want to inquire about utility bills before you sign on the dotted line. Hopefully they have upgraded the HVAC.

I don't recall a noise problem but was only in one unit.