Just moved into Avalon at Grosvenor after searching from Bethesda to Rockville. I "compromised" on this location as moderately priced vs. proximity to DC for a brand new/never lived in apt. Can't ask for a more convenient location to the metro. Despite being right next to the metro tracks, there is little discernable noise associated with that. Construction is on-going and is somewhat noisy and an eyesore during the day (but what do I care when at work). They are suppose to finish the buildout by spring/summer 2004.

Management seems to go out of there way to irritate me. On my first visit, they said they were only signing 14 month leases, but you get 2 months free. While this might be a great deal for some people, it is not for me, since I'm on temporary assignment with work for a year. Thankfully, I took the tour and was impressed with the size, layout and newness of the apartments, but I walked out thinking they're crazy and I would never live there.

After almost signing a lease for more money down the road, they called me back and said they would accept a 12 month lease, but would only give 2 weeks free as concession. This still fit my budget better than elsewhere and I gave them a second look. I signed the application, paid a $25 fee, and thought I was all set, then they called me and said I needed the give them the $400 security deposit to reserve my apartment -- apparently the leasing agent was kinda new and forgot to tell me, thus I had to make a third trip to the office.

Another bone of contention -- one leasing agent told me they "require" renters insurance. I told him you can't require it, you can only encourage. If you require it, you have to disclose the cost (I'm not certain what the law says, but I trust common sense). In signing the lease papers, the lease itself only recomends the insurance. Another sheet of paper explains the necessity, but only recommends, does not require. A third disclosure statement says proof of insurance is required, but I'm sure it is not binding -- the lease is. Needless to say, as a consumer the choice is mine, not theirs.

I moved in a week later. One of the selling points is the parking garage allows you to park on your floor and have direct access to your building w/out using stairs or elevator. I was told that my 3rd floor apartment walked out to the 3rd floor of the parking garage (out of 4 floors) so I would be parking under a roof (to avoid snow, etc). Alas, this was not quite true for my building, the 3rd floor walks out to the roof of the garage. My fault for not checking closely before signing:(

My apartment is huge and well appointed w/ beige textured walls, crown moldings and high ceilings. All new white appliances and wood plank flooring grace the kitchen. Bathrooms are large and nicely equipped also. Minor irritations include the front door not latching properly, one bedroom door not closing at all, and what's with the dining room light fixture located where noone in there right mind would place a table' Also, some of the cabinets and moldings have "settled" with the building and have gaps that need to be caulked.

While I do hear my neighbors from time to time, it is not a big distraction and it is quiet after 11:00pm. I've lived in apartments in Arlington previously and this is much quieter.

Even with the minor irritations, I'd have to say I'm satisfied and hopeful that I made the right choice.

Your thoughts? Post a response to this review. Display my response: with my username anonymously Responses appear below reviews and one response per user is permitted.

   Free estimates on moving trucks      Find apartment share/roommates