This post is written by Lise Howe, Associate Broker at RLAH in Chevy Chase. Lise has been a Realtor in Montgomery County, DC and Virginia for over 38 years and specializes in condos in Chevy Chase and Bethesda.
Living at the Willoughby condominiums might be perfect for you – or not! How do you know? If you’re exploring condominium living in Chevy Chase, Maryland, the Willoughby is a building you’ll almost certainly encounter — and for very good reason. In my 38 years of working with buyers and sellers in Bethesda and Chevy Chase, I’ve helped everyone from first-time homebuyers to downsizers evaluate whether this community is the right fit.
The Willoughby has long been one of those buildings that simply makes sense for many people, but like any home purchase, it’s important to understand both the advantages and the practical considerations.
Why Buyers Are Drawn to Living at the Willoughby
An Exceptionally Convenient Location
Location is where the Willoughby truly shines. Positioned in Friendship Heights, residents can walk to shops, like Tiffany and Saks, restaurants like LIa’s and Miewah, casual places like Potbelly, grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s, and of course, the Metro. For first-time buyers, this often means a more urban lifestyle without the DC price tag. For downsizers, it frequently means simplifying daily life and reducing the need to drive everywhere. The Friendship Heights Community Center is right next door with classes, lectures and performances. The Friendship Heights Metro Station (Red Line) is nearby, making commuting into Washington, DC or Bethesda refreshingly easy.
Amenities That Simplify Lif
The Willoughby offers the conveniences many buyers seek:
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24-hour concierge
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Rooftop pool
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Fitness center
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On-site management
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Garage parking
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Utilities included in many condo fees
For busy professionals, this can feel like stress-free living. For downsizers, it often means leaving behind the maintenance responsibilities of a single-family home.
Value Relative to the Market
One of the reasons the Willoughby remains so popular is value. Compared with many newer luxury buildings in Chevy Chase and Bethesda, buyers can often find more space at a more approachable price point. Living at the Willoughby means a variety of choices in size. You can choose from studios all the way to three bedrooms.
For first-time buyers, this can make homeownership feel attainable. For downsizers, it can free up equity while maintaining comfort and location.
Practical Considerations to Keep in Mind
The Building’s Age
The Willoughby is a well-established building rather than new construction. Many units have been beautifully renovated, while others may benefit from updates. This variety gives buyers flexibility — but also makes professional guidance especially helpful. Rest assured though – if you fall in love with a particular view or location at the Willougby but you don’t love the Formica countertops and 1970s cabinets, I have lots of contractors who can turn that sad space into a dream kitchen worthy of a 21st century Julia Child!
Condo Fees
Because the building provides extensive services and amenities, condo fees are typically higher than those in smaller buildings. However, many fees include utilities, which helps create more predictable monthly expenses.
What matters most is evaluating the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. However, if you are downsizing, I think there is something very appealing about knowing exactly what your monthly housing expenses will be. The condo fee includes utilities (water and sewer, gas, electricity, heat and air conditioning) and all of the building’s amenities including the gym and pool, so you can figure out what you will be spending.
Laundry Arrangements
This is one of the most common buyer questions. Living at the Willoughby Condos in Chevy Chase means no in unit washers and dryers but there are two laundry rooms on each floor, one in the north building and one in the south. In all the time I have been in the Willoughby to show condos I have never noticed anyone waiting to use the washers and dryers.
Pet Policy
The building maintains a no-pets policy, which works well for some residents and is a deal-breaker for others.
Recent Sales & Market Activity
The Willoughby continues to see steady buyer interest across multiple price points:
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Studios often attract first-time buyers and investors (Studios have ranged from the $160s to around $235,000 depending on location and condition)
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One-bedroom units remain popular with professionals (One bedrooms range from the low $200s to around $325,000 in early 2026.)
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Larger units frequently appeal to downsizers seeking space without house maintenance and families (in early 2026, 3 bedrooms have been selling in the mid to upper $500s, based on condition and location.)
Prices typically range from the high-$100,000s into the $500,000s+ depending on size, floor, view, and renovations. This diversity is one of the building’s enduring strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do units at the Willoughby Condos in Chevy Chase have washers and dryers?
No but there are 2 laundry rooms on each floor.
What schools serve the Willoughby?
School assignments fall under Montgomery County Public Schools but should always be verified directly, as boundaries can change. At present children attend Somerset ES and the BCC HS in addition to a number of local private schools.
Is Metro access convenient?
Yes — Friendship Heights Metro is within walking distance.
Are grocery stores nearby?
Very much so. Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and other daily conveniences are close by.
The Bottom Line
The Willoughby works beautifully for many types of buyers. I often recommend it to:
✔ First-time buyers seeking location and value
✔ Downsizers wanting convenience and simplicity
✔ Buyers prioritizing walkability and amenities
After nearly four decades in this market, I’ve learned that choosing the right building is about more than numbers — it’s about lifestyle, comfort, and long-term fit.
If you’re considering a purchase at the Willoughby, I’d be happy to help you evaluate your options, review recent sales, and determine whether it aligns with your goals. Experience matters — especially in buildings with wide variation between units.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer exploring condo ownership or a homeowner considering downsizing, choosing the right building requires more than simply browsing listings.
With 38 years of experience specializing in Bethesda and Chevy Chase condominiums, I help buyers understand pricing, building differences, resale value, and the lifestyle considerations that truly matter.
If you’re considering a purchase at the Willoughby — or comparing it with other Bethesda and Chevy Chase condos — I’d be delighted to provide clear, honest guidance.
📞 Contact me anytime to discuss current listings, recent sales, and whether this building fits your goals.