Condo A vs. Condo B... or C (Germantown, Gaithersburg: hardwood floors, condos)

[CGYFlames03]

Looking for advice of those in MoCo. I am looking to buy a condo, and trying to weigh the benefits and values of a few different places. One newer complex in Germantown has 2 bed 2 bath condos in the 240k range…. Another complex in the Kentlands (Gaithersburg) area has brand new 1 bedroom condos for 250k. (just reduced from 299).

Working in DC (driving), Gaithersburg is more attractive. The Gburg condos also have hardwood floors, stainless steel app., granite counters, parking garage. Germantown has carpet, lower grade applicances, outdoor parking lot. Amenities and condo fees would be similar.

So the question is… which is better? They’re both new… they’re both nice. Kentlands obviously is a better location and overall higher quality inside and out. Is the resale value going to be that much higher (or not at all) on the Germantown 2 bedroom, or does the further out location hurt it? I doubt I'd re-sell for at least 5 years.

Anything you know about the market in this area (and even other new complexes to check out) would be helpful. My limit really is 250k, so these both seem like great deals… but what do I know?

Thanks for your advice!!

[DC's Finest]

Right now the resale value isn't going to be that great and since you are going to be in either condo for five years, I would definitely put my quality of living as the top priority. Do you need two bedrooms or one? Gaithersburg is a shorter commute, so there will be less stress getting to and from work. If you go with the Germantown condo, in a few years you might want to upgrade the unit, which could be expensive. The amenities such as hardwood flooring and granite are already in the Gaithersburg condo. These are questions you need to answer. I also think that 250 is a great deal BTW.