Since sharing the news about the new apartment, I've been getting the same questions repeatedly. So, I'm answering my frequently asked questions for this week's blog post.

How Much Is The Rent?

The rent is $2,300/month, inclusive of water and heat. Cooking gas, electricity, and Wi-Fi are my responsibility and will bring my total monthly expenses to about $2600. I signed a two-year lease, so my rent will not go up next year.

That Price Is Impossible To Find in D.C. How Did You Do It?

I got this apartment by accident. Initially, I went to look at another unit in this building but lost it to someone else. 😪

But, I endeared myself to the property manager by writing a letter (see example below) speaking to my beautiful qualities as a tenant, and a few days later, she let me know another unit available was for $2700. That was out of my budget, but she emailed saying the landlord would let me have the apartment for $2300 if I took possession immediately. Within 48 hours, I toured the new place, asked for an additional discount which was denied signed the lease, paid the deposit, and got the keys….

I later learned that the unit had been empty for several months, and because I had already shared my plans to upgrade the unit, they figured it was worth giving it to me at a $400/month discount. Sometimes, the best apartments fall right into your lap, and the universe aligns to make it work for you.

Is It Rent-Controlled?

Yes, of course! When you stop looking for high-rise buildings and luxury amenities, it’s pretty easy to find rent-controlled apartments in D.C. to help you; here’s a list of rent-controlled buildings in D.C.

Does Your Landlord Know About the DIYs?

Yes! Before touring the unit, I spoke to the property manager about Imani At Home, and she assured me the landlord would be open to me making upgrades to the space.

Additionally, I've shared my project list with the landlord and got their approval, so I'm in great shape. If you want to change your apartment, use the landlord's email template to give you the right words to make it happen.

What’s the square footage and layout?

I live in an 850 square foot two-bedroom one-bath apartment.

What do you love most about the space?

It changes daily, but I love the light in the office is especially lovely. The cross-section of south and east-facing light makes the $1,000/month increase in living expenses worth it!

Where is the new apartment?

DuPont Circle area of NW D.C. I won’t get more specific than that because of safety, so please don’t ask me to send you my address. 🖤

OMG! I’m so happy for you. What’s the first DIY project?

Now… Hold on… Hold On… in my Nicki Minaj voice.

I’m still unpacking and trying to replenish my savings, so I don’t have an official timeline for the projects just yet. But, in the meantime, check out my Pinterest board to see what inspo photos I’ve been saving.

Have another question? Drop it in the comments, and I’ll get back to you.