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[quote=Anonymous]Hi OP -- first off, I think you might want to be a little more specific about where in Kensington you are looking. Saying "Woodmoor" pinpoints you pretty well in terms of community here, but Kensington can mean a lot of things.

I am a Woodmoor resident. We lived in NW DC condo and apts before buying nearly 8 years ago in Woodmoor.

I don't know much about Kensington so can only speak for Woodmoor. At the time, we got more for our money in Woodmoor. Still, it definitely lacks the cache of Kensington -- esp the sought-after parts of Kensington. Fortunately for me, I don't care b/c I love it here.

The commute to DC is tough. The metro bus from Woodmoor to SS Metro Station is only 2 miles, but it can be a real headache, and then of course there is Metro to deal with. That said, PLENTY of our neighbors do it. Driving is probably 35 mins to Farragut North area (that's what I know best), and there are a number of major routes to take (Georgia, 16th, etc). You can take Beach Drive and it's a slower yet more peaceful drive, but the exits might not be convenient depending on where you work.

In terms of convenience, the Woodmoor shopping center (as you've probably seen) has basically everything you need and you can WALK to it. I can't tell you what a convenience it is. The Safeway is also easily walk-able but not renovated in any way. Trader Joe's is also super close and technically walkable, although Rt 29 is so busy and there are no guardrail, so I would never do it. There are some restaurants but certainly not loads. Still, it some ways I'd prefer it that way b/c it helps cut down on congestion.

Don't know about the schools yet so can't comment.

The neighborhood is quite tight with an active listserv (general and moms). The local parks are often bustling and a great place to meet folks with kids if you want. The neighbors really watch out for each other too -- neighbors of all ages. There are definitely a lot of young families, but also empty-nesters who still love it and don't want to leave.

Still, the houses are generally small, unless you have $$ to add. Still, you see A LOT of renovations b/c people don't want to leave.

I have definitely heard talk of there being cliques in Woodmoor, particularly b/c of St. Bernadette's Catholic Parish and some folks feeling left out if they aren't part of the church. We aren't part of the church, aren't Catholic, but never feel excluded. In fact, I've attended a number of events up there without feeling out of place. So I guess it just depends on who your friends are.

My best advice is to really think about the commute, esp if your husband's job is a long-term location. I would even try to practice the morning and/or evening drive -- although I know you don't have much time before you make your offer. And maybe being more specific about Kensington and where in DC your DH is headed could help other posters give info.

GOOD LUCK! And if you buy in Woodmoor, even if you don't close on the house for a while, COME TO THE 4th OF JULY PARADE! Loads of fun and a wonderful introduction to our culture.
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