The Aspen

Current Resident 462120

Verified Resident • 2018

The staffs here provide good information and service. Everyone look enthusiastic and friendly. The overall condition is good but it maybe because the weather is still cold the atmosphere around the outside looks barky and not bright.

Current Resident 461795

Verified Resident • 2017 - 2018

Great value! Good location. Shuttle to metro. Building a bit dated, but has everything you need. Two service requests were both handled immediately. Plenty of parking. New management company seems to be making positive changes and providing consistency.

Current Resident 455617

Verified Resident • 2016 - 2018

The communication between management/property owners and residents needs a great deal of improvement. The building is quiet for the most part. Older and a bit run down in places but you can't beat the location and the shuttle to the metro. We have enjoyed living here but there are a few nagging concerns you learn to live with

Current Resident 455111

Verified Resident • 2018

Since it's my first time living in the DMV, I was having a hard time is the situate me in a great location for my work. However, when I got a notification to my phone about the Aspen, its more than reasonable prices, central location, and resources available from the community nearby, I was practically sold on the area.

Current Resident 451550

Verified Resident • 2014 - 2019

Just like home. They treat you like family. The staff really cares about you. So very friendly here. Close to everything including traveling within the the great Northeast States and cities. Every one you comes to visit is amazed at what a lovely apartment I have

Amanda_L831

Resident • 2018

The aspen is one of the most affordable places that you can find in this area that has all the amenities that it has. There is a gym, pool, plenty of parking, concierge, shuttle to the metro, and large closets! Within a five minute walk you can grab amazing Mexican food at El Paisa or groceries at food star. Within a couple miles you have restaurants, grocery stores, golds gym and more. Also I would like to note that Matthew Christopher has been a wonderful help getting us moved in and revamping the property!

Current Resident 449562

Verified Resident • 2016 - 2018

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

kgriff08

Resident • 2017 - 2018

My husband and I moved to Alexandria for a work assignment in December, and we needed to make housing arrangements sight-unseen. Matt was so helpful in accommodating the perfect unit for our short-term lease, and he made sure that everything was in order so that we were able to move in as soon as we arrived. Our unit is great-- renovated with all new appliances, and we love that there is laundry room on our floor. Matt and his team in the leasing office are so responsive and helpful if we have ever had any questions, and we can't thank them enough for working with us to secure our unit on such short notice. The front desk staff is awesome too-- they are so pleasant, and I love that someone is always there. We are so pleased with the staff, the neighborhood, and the apartment itself.

Current Resident 325544

Resident • 2013 - 2017

As a current resident within the building, I would like to inform you about an ongoing issue within the building. The owners have been knowledgeable about asbestos and aware since an initial report was completed and have not taken the proper precautions when renovating units. The owners have been hiding the fact that asbestos is throughout the building in unacceptable levels. Typically, asbestos is not dangerous if left alone and not within high levels. However, the levels that have been contained within the building are within an unacceptable range. An OSHA investigation has been ongoing for roughly three weeks, and they have confirmed the levels of asbestos within the building. The OSHA investigation should be completed within 20 days, and the most recent test results will be made available. The renovations have brought the asbestos airborne and exposing residents to the airborne chemical. The building is however denying everything within the report, saying there is nothing of concern.

soaper720

Resident • 2015 - 2016

I lived at the Aspen for a little over a year and a half, originally in a 1 bedroom and then we up moved to the 2x2. We were happy there however they went up on rent, so we decided we could find something cheaper and chose not to resign. I regret that decision now. Yes, we found something cheaper but let me tell you folks, the grass is never greener on the other side. I miss my 12th floor breathtaking views from the gigantic windows this apartment had. I miss the super awesome friendly staff. And I especially miss the amazing neighborhood this place is in. Seriously, this place is a steal. Yes, it has its flaws - the a/c is outdated and doesn't work the best. The elevators are the size of a shoebox (you really get to know your neighbors) and it's sort of a hike to get in and out of the neighborhood. But those are really nit-picky things that you get used to. I actually really liked this building. Anyway, like I said, I just got to thinking about how much I got spoiled by this place. I figured I'd give it a nice review while I'm fuming about the current place I'm in.

mircat17

Resident • 2015 - 2016

This place is an absolute nightmare. During the process of viewing the apartments/applying we were told several things that were flat out lies (such as how many parking spaces we'd get and what the lease termination rules are). After applying we were told we'd sign our lease on move-in day. We showed up with all our stuff and stopped in the leasing office to sign before moving in. The lease terms were completely different from what we were told. We ended up not moving in that day and had to turn around with all our stuff. We were then assured by the leasing office that amendments would be added and the lease would be updated to match the information we were given. Again we showed up on move-in day and the lease hadn't been changed whatsoever. Because we simply had to find a place to move in and we were yet again there with all our belongings, we moved in despite the discrepancies. It continued to be a horrible experience from there. I ended up in over 3 hours of phone calls w/management in my first couple weeks and no issues were resolved. Apartment was in bad shape with many things falling apart when we got there. About a week in someone hit my new car in the parking lot and damaged it badly. First of all, no one left a note (talk about bad neighbors). Secondly, there was a security camera pointing directly at my car so I asked if the police could access the footage. Turns out the security cameras on the property are all for show and don't actually work. And someone from the leasing office had the nerve to suggest it was likely one of THEIR maintenance trucks that hit my car but did not offer any compensation. We constantly ended up in battles with the leasing office while we were there because of different lies they told us. In December there was no heat and hot water at one point and it was not resolved the same day. During a large snowstorm the lot was not plowed for several days and we were all trapped, despite everything around us being plowed. They didn't even have it plowed by the time the federal government was re-opened and people had to miss work. Total nightmare, shoddy fixtures, and complete LIARS in the leasing office. DO NOT MOVE IN HERE.

Current Resident 343346

Resident • 2015 - 2016

This place is a fantastic place for the price and proximity to transportation and city life. Lots of space. Rent includes all utilities. The only con is the appliances are old (would be five stars with this added), but they have started renovating. The staff goes to great lengths to communicate and solve problems quickly. The inconveniences such as location to metro is made up for by the shuttle they have in the mornings and evenings to the Crystal City Metro. The bus stop is also only a 2-3 minute walk away. All apartments have a balcony which is a huge plus. The balcony area wall is all windows with the exception of the glass door to the balcony; which is another great attraction. Laundry machines on every floor is another great benefit. Also, there is 24/7 coverage at the entrance lobby which I found very attentive by the management to do. The neighborhood is very quite and mostly houses (very friendly people all over the area). Overall, you won't be disappointed living here.

ArmystrongDc

Resident • 2014 - 2016

After living in a super tiny studio in an overpriced neighborhood in DC for 2 years, I was so relieved to find Aspen. The apartments are huge. I have a one bedroom that's 800 square feet. In this area that's incredible. My balcony is the entire length of my massive living room. I just can't get over how spacious it is. That's the main selling point. The building has a great gym and nice pool, and a 24 hour receptionist downstairs. Location could be a little better, but there is a shuttle to the metro during rush hour. I'm told that they are expanding the shuttle hours this year. I really hope that is the case. But for now, it's very convenient. Overall, I really like this building. It would be a lot easier with a car, but I've gotten by for 18 months without one so clearly it's not that bad. For the price, can't beat it!

elibe07

Resident • 2013 - 2015

I've lived in Aspen House for nearly 2 years and have had a great experience. -The leasing staff and concierges are all wonderful (Duncan the Concierge is the absolute BEST) -Good location (about a mile from Crystal City and Braddock Metro stations, but the building offers a week day shuttle do and from the metro) -Reasonable rent prices -Super friendly residents -Responsive maintenance staff -Nice pool, small but decent gym, cool little lending library No building is perfect, so there are a few negatives: -While they allow cats, they don't allow dogs, which is sort of a bummer -Rent seems to increase by about $50 each year - maybe this is standard in Alexandria or VA? Not sure, but it kinda sucks -There's no dedicated visitor parking zone, so I've often had trouble finding parking spots, especially after 8 p.m. There's always a spot somewhere, though -The walls seem sort of thin, it's easy to hear what the neighbors are doing -I did have a mouse once, but it only happened one time, just one mouse - I was on a high floor so I'm not sure how it got all the way up there. That being said, the building has weekly preventative pest control so that little guy could've been a fluke. Overall, I highly recommend the Aspen!

Current Resident 246444

Resident • 2013 - 2015

Thankful to call The Aspen home. I've lived here two years and don't plan on moving anytime soon. All of the staff members are kind, welcoming and attentive, location is in close proximity to D.C, and the apartments are spacious and affordable. The building is tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood behind Del Ray (great place to go running, practice yoga, shop local, and dine at some wonderful hometown restaurants). If you're new to the area or have been looking to move - check out The Aspen.

uwbadgergil

Resident • 2012 - 2015

I lived in a studio apartment from October 2012 to October 2015. The Aspen can best be summarized as okay but not great. Well the apartments are a decent size, they are extremely overpriced for the location. As a reference, I moved to an apartment in Crystal City that is less than a five minute walk to the metro, has a washer/dryer in unit, and underground parking that only costs 12 cents more per square foot. It is also a two-bedroom/two-bath unit that is 400 square feet larger than those offered at the Aspen. The studio apartments are a good size and have a lot of storage. There are laundry facilities on each floor and I rarely had trouble doing laundry at the time I wanted. The shuttle bus is a convenient option for getting to the metro. Overall the building is clean. Management seems to have gotten better at enforcing parking and ensuring the gates are actually closed at the appropriate time. There have been problems in the past of residents being forced to park on the street because too many guests were using the lot unchecked. Management at the building has been unstable since I lived there. The building is now on the third different manager which makes policy enforcement inconsistent. Management is also horrible at communication and is often inaccessible. They have taken to locking the leasing office door, requiring tenants to have the front desk call the leasing office and relay information before they will permit you to enter. The shuttle bus can be convenient however you have to adjust your schedule to fit the shuttle bus timing. The closest bus stops are a few blocks away and down a hill which I did not feel comfortable walking alone at night as it was not well lit (there is gang violence nearby at Russell and Glebe Roads). It also does not run on the weekend. You will definitely want to have a car here. It is about a mile walk to any restaurants (besides McDonalds) or a Target/major grocery store.

Current Resident 905361

Resident • 2009 - 2015

Another false alarm with the over sensitive fire alarm at 230 in the morning. I have to be up for work in two hours. Rent increase amounts are to high, no renovations to apts to justify increase. you're basically in the same aging unit but paying more each year. Management here is pretty lack luster to say the least. Good area, but seriously guys these are not 1700 dollar a month apts. REALLY??!!

Current Resident 561670

Resident • 2014

The good: Quiet neighborhood, well-constructed building means quieter than many apartments I'ved lived in. Maintenance requests are handled promptly. Large, modern windows allow great views. A package room maintained by the front desk attendants allows residents to safely receive packages. A shuttle bus runs from the Aspen to the Crystal City Metro in the morning and evening rush hours, if you choose to use it. Onsite storage is secure and available for an extra cost. Three working elevators. Laundry rooms on every floor are kept clean. The bad: The grounds, trees, fountain, and parking lots are not well kept. Trash sometimes litters the parking lot. Limbs on trees need to be trimmed from overhanging and dead trees need to be removed. Tree limbs are left on the grass and broken glass can be seen in the grassy areas at times. The fountain needs to be regularly scrubbed from dirt and algae in the bottom. It looks the worst this spring ever. The front gate is constantly left open on the visitors' side. Many residents and guests rely on the front desk attendants to let them enter the building without using keycards or calling the intercom system for residents to let guests in. Some wireless (cell phone) service is sometimes spotty in the building. Not sure why. Snow removal efforts in the parking lots (sides and back, too) always can be improved. The ugly: There used to be all open parking. Now (in less than one year), there is the option for reserved parking at $50/month for each of 20 reserved spaces in addition to the open spaces. The residents who choose to get a reserved space are throwing their money away and don't realize it. If the Aspen plans to use that to defray utility costs for residents, then great. Otherwise, it is just a moneymaker for management. The leasing management changed in the summer of 2013. Reported plans of raising rents of 10% or more annually is not consistent with the cost of living in our economy. Overall, the Aspen is not a bad place, still. It's quiet and convenient to major roads and shopping. I just think the economy is taking a toll on the place in many ways. There are needed improvements by the management to keep costs low for residents, maintain the grounds better, keep an eye on security, offer incentives for residents to renew, and communicate much better in writing.

Care11

Resident • 2012 - 2013

I lived in The Aspen for little more than a year. I recently moved because my priorities changed (garage parking & walk to metro). I had a studio apartment (payton) with a DC view! I was able to see the Washington Monument, the Capitol, DCA airport, etc. The studio has good size (650sf). I loved the community... The shuttle to metro is very convenient ( it takes aprox 15 min or less to crystal city) they recently remodeled the lobby, each floor has its own laundry with a relatively new equipment. I rarely had to wait to use the laundry and the neighbors are very considerate. Also, the hallways are well maintained and illuminated. I have visited other apt complex and I have noticed that the Aspen makes the difference on this. Maintenance people always responded on time (same day). The staff is friendly and make you feel at home. The community is clean and safe. The gym has good equipment and you can go to sauna after your workout. I also liked the location I used my bike to go to old town alexandria and delray area. I would stay here, but my boyfriend needed the garage parking and the convenience of being close to metro. If that changes, I will consider going back to the Aspen.

5pinkshoes

Resident • 2009 - 2013

I have lived here for over 4 years and I love my apartment! I have an amazing view of the Potomac River and I can watch the airplanes take off and land at National Airport. I am in a 1 bedroom 1 bath with a HUGE (20x4) balcony. In general I think the apartment is big for a 1 bedroom (800 sq ft) I have been here thru the renovation of the lobby, hallways and laundry rooms. Currently I am living thru the construction of the Calvert building that is right in front of me. Apparently it doesn't bother me enough that I don't enjoy my time on my balcony almost every day. My apartment faces due east and I get a ton of light in the morning. When I first moved in, the office didn't accept packages for you and quite often I had to go down to UPS on Eisenhower Avenue to get my packages because they would not leave them in the hallway. Now there is 24 hour concierge and they are happy to keep our packages for us. There is plenty of parking and I never feel unsafe when I come home late at night. the pool is nice and there is always plenty of chairs available. The only downside to the pool is that it is in the shade after 4pm. The pool hours are 12-7 during the week and 10-8 on the weekends. I asked management several times about changing the hours during the week, but there was no flexibility there. We have recently had a change in management and she is FANTASTIC! She can frequently be seen in the lobby talking to residents and she is planning events to make our building a fun place to live. The maintenance people are always friendly and any requests get completed either the same day or the next day. This is not the fanciest or newest building around, but I am very satisfied with the price I pay in rent for what I get. I know I can get a place for less, but you get what you pay for. The location is awesome and the amenities suit my needs.

Current Resident 508056

Resident • 2011 - 2013

* * * Edited July 2013 * * * I'll keep this review brief. I have lived here for almost 3 years and will most likely have to move out at the end of my current lease. When I initially moved here my total rent was $1240 for a one bedroom. The second year it increased to $1360. This year our renewal notice was around $1500, a 12% increase. They have done renovations to the building, but not to our apartment. We love the building, the shuttle, the staff, etc. Everything is professional and well taken care of, but the rent increase is incredible. Also factor in $20-40 per month for using the laundry rooms at $1.75 per load (washer THEN dryer) I can no longer afford to live here since I haven't gotten 10% raises at my job every year, so am forced to move out. I feel as if they let me settle for two years then jacked up my rates, knowing it would be difficult to move after finding nearby employment, etc. The apartment amenities are fine, but would not recommend it on the fact that the rent increases so much each year. EDIT JULY 15th - I renewed our rent through 2014 but the management could not make any sort of deals for the rent amount. I also asked if I could have a 14 month rent instead of 12, since I am trying to move out next summer instead of earlier in the spring. Management told me that it's impossible to have any contract length other than 12 or 24 months. Impossible. Like, the number of months on the lease can't be switched to a different number or the building will implode. Also my spouse may be transferred for work (sort of out of her control) and there is no option for us to move out unless we pay a $3000 lease termination fee. $3000. I really loved this apartment until the last 4 months. The management has not worked with me on any issues and I feel like they are turning a blind eye to the lives of their tenants. Most likely my spouse will refuse the job transfer, we will continue to pay our 12% increased rent until next spring, and then move out at an awkward time when I starting finals for college and my spouse is hopefully still working their job. I told all of this to the management and they gave me a sigh of pity and said "Well, sorry but we still can't help you." I'm changing my rating of the staff to 1 star, I very much feel that they are "Not helpful. Generally a pain to deal with."

Current Resident 568229

Resident • 2012 - 2013

My review is pretty neutral, so take what you want from it, but overall, I would not choose to live here again. If you don't mind spending a lot of money on a decent apartment, you can live here. My initial rent was 1240, plus 100 for utilities, and I have a cat, an additional 25 a month. But I get a military discount, so my total ends up around 1300. I live in a studio and its spacious for one and maybe two people. Prepare to spend a tad more if you want a one bedroom. Its a high rise, so the view is pretty beautiful depending on what side youre facing. I can see the airport, and the monument from my windows, so the forth of July you see all the fireworks. One con is since the utilities are 'included' they control whether you are getting AC or heat. And they switch it, in the fall you get heat. And in the summer you will get AC, YOU simply control if you want it on or not. So prepare for some hot days/nights in the summer because they usually don't switch to AC till late May or June. On the flipside, you might get a breeze if you open the windows and you don't mind pollen. The security desk has a friendly staff, especially Jackie. She is the sweetest lady and is always smiling. Maintenance always fixes issues on the day of or the day after. On each floor, they have one laundry room with 3 washers and dryers. Ive never had a problem with waiting for a washer, surprisingly. Maybe once or twice. BUT you do have to put money on a card to use the washer and dryer. Its 1.75 a load to wash or dry. The fitness room is nice if you like to work out. Its small but its never full of people in there and they have a room where you can sit and read and utilize the free wifi. Comes in handy. And their theater is a big screen tv with comfy chairs, Ive only used it once as I have a big screen in my own apartment. Living here Ive occasionally had noise complaints, so if you have a surround sound, keep it to a minimum. I don't have a surround sound, but I do have finicky neighbors that complain if I have the tv too loud. (But you can hear other folks watching their telly as you walk down the halls) As far as the upper unit stomping around, Ive never heard it and the floors feel thick enough that if you stomp, the people below will not hear it. The reason I moved from this place is because I found an apartment that is a one bedroom, as opposed to this studio. And its 200 dollars cheaper. Comes with the washer and dryer in the unit. It also comes with a beautiful garden tub in a larger bathroom. The space is just bigger. I WILL SAY THIS, this one leasing consultant that helped me when I first leased with the aspens was nice, but I don't feel it was genuine. And she told me that small pets are allowed, she didnt stipulate that it was only cats. She said there was a weight limit, and with that, I thought I would be able to get a small dog under 25 pounds. Later, I found that was not the case. Partially my fault because in the lease it says only cats. So flush your fish or fry them up, cause it says ONLY cats. Read your lease before you sign it. I would recommend the aspen if you don't mind spending an arm and a leg. For people making a decent amount of living will think this is a great place to live but for someone like myself, I know I can get a bigger unit with a cheaper price elsewhere. ANOTHER CON, they are doing monthly maintenance, whether its electrical or checking the fire alarms. And they spray the trash chutes often. That's not a con, but it always seems to be on a day Im taking out the trash. Which means, you have to take your trash all the way down to the 2nd floor if you are on the 17th floor. There was a four day period they were testing the fire alarms, and its loud, so you have to prepare to leave your apartment or just deal with it. I know it scared my poor cat to bits. If you cook something and there is no fire, just smoke, your fire alarm might go off, its pretty sensitive. During an electrical maintenance you have to prepare your food in your fridge so that it doesnt spoil by buying ice and cooler or keeping your fridge closed the entire time. Because the maintenance might last for hours. A pro: There is a convenience store located on the same floor as the lobby. So you don't need to go all the way to 711 for that ice cream craving. Just be prepared to spend a minimum of 10 dollars if you don't have cash. If you like to swim, the pool here is ok. Free for residents on the lease, but if you have a guest, its 2 dollars a guest. And the sauna works. If your lease starts at the beginning of may, the rent will be prorated. And when your lease ends next may, you will be paying for the full month of may, your lease will not end in the beginning of may, when you signed your lease. Not an important detail, but one that still affected me when I moved out. On the resident login site, it says my lease ended in the middle of the month, but I am still due to pay for the entire month. Its bull cocky. But I just can't wait to leave this place. Don't break your lease either, its a 2500 fee.

Current Resident 229337

Resident • 2011 - 2012

I've lived hear almost a year, and I'm so glad I chose this place. I had to sell my home - a 1930s cottage in Del Ray - and was heartbroken. I simply couldn't afford a house or townhouse in this area, and was pretty despondent as I looked at every apartment available in the Del Ray/Rosemont area. They all seemed cramped, gray, and void of personality, with the exception of Manor House apartments which only have studios and 1BR. (I needed a 2BR). I finally came to Aspen House. The staff is so friendly - and not just to prospective tenants! Kim and Sarah in the management office are both super-professional, sweet and caring. The front desk is staffed 24 hours, and the person on duty (especially Jackie!) is always cheery and ready to help. There's a burbling fountain in the front, which makes me happy every time I come home. The pool is sparkling and well used, with great lifeguards. My ginormous balcony overlooks the pool, so in the summer I feel like I'm at a hotel resort. The apartments are spacious, and the layout makes me feel like I'm in an actual home, not just a rental. It also feels like a very safe complex, with lots of professionals and families. Some of the units have SPECTACULAR views of the river and National Airport. The main drawback is that they aren't walking distance to a metro, but they now offer shuttle service to Crystal City in the morning/evening. The second drawback is the massive construction project right next door, which runs - LOUDLY - from about 7am-4pm Mon-Sat. I work from home, but it probably wouldn't bother anybody who wasn't home during the day. Now that my finances are recovering, I may be able to rent a house when my lease is up. But I'm not sure I want to.

Fchershey

Resident • 2011 - 2012

I have lived here for almost a year and I can't say enough good things about the complex. As to commenters who complained about insects, please note that these comments are several years old. I have NEVER so much as seen an ant in my apartment. The rent here is incredibly low and the amenities are truly amazing. Pool, sauna, free constant shuttle service to and from the metro, bike concierge service (they lock your bike near the lobby and the concierge brings it to you whenever you need it). Honestly, management goes above and beyond. For example, they've started a bike club where they pick you up with your bicycle in the lobby, provide you with water for the trail ride, then drive you to the trail and pick you up when finished. Name me one other apartment that offers anything similar to that. The management knows the tenants names and always will greet you. I live in a north-facing apartment and the view is stunning. I can see all the way from the National Cathedral across the mall to the Capitol. I never post reviews of anything but I felt compelled to write this after seeing negative reviews posted. I almost signed on a $2600/month "luxury" apartment before a friend suggested I look here. Honestly, this is the best complex in the DC area, as far as I'm concerned (I'm a native to DC so I've lived in tons of places).

JennaVera

Resident • 2012 - 2014

I used to love the place, and I still love the building, amenities and location. However, the new manager is far more severe than the old manager. She's rude and she appears to believe she needs to put the residents in their places. There's a sharp contrast between her and the previous manager. I moved into this building partly because all the residents were friendly individuals, and if the new manager has it her way, she'll be ending that. Rather than facilitating a decent living environment, she focuses on making money. When she got here, she started advertising the storage units, and then she implemented a rather stupid plan to rent out dedicated parking spaces, even though there is ample parking in our lot. When there are resident complaints, she doesn't arbitrate - she comes down on the complainee regardless of whether that individual is at fault. She has been unnecessarily rude to my neighbors, even when there is no complaint involved. I think the rest of the staff is still good - the front desk people kind of rotate, but there are a few who have been here for years. The maintenance people have also been here and are very good. The shuttle is a great help, and the balconies are spaceous. I like a lot of the things here, but the tone has changed with the new manager. I just wish she would go away. Please note: The first 5 responses were to my first review. When I added this one, my first review was deleted from the site, not updated as I thought.