1L Unpaid DC Summer -- Guidance on finding a place to live? Forum

[smile0751]

I accepted a DC summer position and will need a place for the summer for 10 weeks. Because it's unpaid, cheaper is better. However I am also looking to "try out" DC to see if it's a city I could see myself living in post-graduation. I will be working near capital hill, and do not know much about DC geography.

1. When should I start looking? Is the summer sublet market similar to full-time renting?
2. Anyone have any advice or positive/negative experiences with programs or schools to go through to find housing?
3. Realistically, how much should I be expecting to spend on housing?

I'd appreciate any advice!

[jewkidontheblock]

It's a little early to start looking now, but you may be able to find something on Craigslist this far out. Tons of interns flock to the city every year, so expect to pay a premium compared to another city or another time of the year. Still, you should be able to find some value near the hill.

If you're willing to live in the H Street NE area, I've known some people who have been able to sublet bedrooms in houses for close to $800/month. I'm not sure about the Hill, but expect to pay a bit more. If you're really willing to pay up, U Street and Columbia Heights offer a lot by way of dining and nightlife. Others would suggest finding some value in Arlington, but if you only have one summer here, I would recommend living downtown.

University housing will be way overpriced but simpler, and you wouldn't have to worry as much about a complicated sublease. I'm looking specifically at GW - Georgetown and AU are both located in areas you probably wouldn't want to live if you're just here for a summer.

Feel free to PM for more info.

[smile0751]

Thanks!