It wasn't bad for my first apartment. I worked in Crystal City so the location was perfect; just a five-minute walk to the bus stop and a 15-20 minute bus ride. The maintenance staff was awesome and professional; all of my requests were handled in a timely manner. The neighborhood was very relaxing, beautiful and peaceful. It was also nice having hardwood floors.
On the other hand, although the walls seemed study, I heard my neighbors all the time. So much that I had to file a complaint once. I had a consistent problem with roaches and water bugs, especially during the summer months. Even in the winter, I couldn't seem to rid them. It wasn't every day, but too often for my liking.
The final straw came when I brought my newborn daughter home and an entire family of mice invaded my place a week later. They literally took over my whole house. Actually, I had a mouse once before then but I was hoping it was a one-time experience. I was wrong. I am sure the fact that the trash is in the basement of some buildings (mine included) contributed to the bug and rodent issue. Aside from that, I never felt comfortable washing my clothes in the laundry room, which was right next to the disgusting trash room. I abruptly grabbed my little family and left after the mouse incident. Neither maintenance nor the exterminator could find the source of the problem.
Overall, a decent place for the price and area, but it is in need of renovations. Each building is different and if yours is bug and rodent-free, I'd say consider it.