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I would suggest moving onto the orange line. Look at the Archstone website. http://www.archstoneapartments.com/

There are also several Meridians in the area. The AVA on Washington and Glebe is a slight walk to the metro, but cheaper.

If you decide to rent along the orange line, remember to ask about towing policies. That’s the biggest complaint around here. Read the reviews online. The rental office may tell you one thing but people experience another.

I have a dark room in my unfinished basement that I tan leather in, but I would be happy to make some room for you… I don’t have a phone but if you’re interested meet me here [ +38° 53' 57.43", -77° 5' 41.67"] tonight after dark. I usually hang out in and around that area. Oh and if you’re serious, bring a few months rent in cash with you. You know, so I know you mean business.  Also, I’m trying to keep this on the down low so that my Uncle Sam doesn’t find out. So like, don’t tell anyone you’re coming.

$2100/mo doesn’t go as far as it used to, as absurd as that sounds. My advice – don’t write off the “second-tier” or older buildings. Everyone gravitates to the new, shiny stuff, and a lot of people will pay whatever the Dittmars or Archstones of the world ask for. I know, I’ve been there. But there are a lot of smaller or older buildings, independently owned, that often have better management and a better tenant community too. And don’t just stick to what’s on the web – walk around and knock on doors and stop in at management offices. A lot of places don’t really have a web presence. Good luck!

One suggestion is to look at condos being rented by owner.  Colonial Village, the Astoria, 1800 Wilson could have good options for you.  I personally know of a nice 1 bedroom in the Astoria that will be available later in the year (sorry won’t make your February deadline) for about 2k.  When you go for condos, the owner really only wants to cover what it costs him or her monthly (mortgage and condo fees) so you can sometimes get a better deal with amenities like assigned parking or zone permits, storage, in-unit laundry, pools, etc.

I also lived in Swansen Apartments (1800 N 16th St) in Courthouse for 2 years.  It’s old and your laundry is in the basement, but Mark, the guy who owns them is awesome and you have parking and it’s CHEAP.

Good luck!

It’s not IN Clarendon but it is walking distance if you’re not lazy–the Bedford Park community; take a right off Washington Blvd.

And on N. Barton, walking distance to Courthouse and Clarendon, is an outside-ugly old apt bldg across from the community garden. I think it’s called The Barton or something. Nice BIG, solid apartments.

We own a 1br  in Colonial Village that we rent out for $1550 and its a great place. It’s not up for lease now but check Craigslist for other Colonial Villages.  Judging by this thread maybe we should raise the rent when our tenants move out!