This Willoughby of Chevy Chase condos post is written by Lise Howe, Associate Broker at RLAH of Chevy Chase, 4600 N Park Avenue. WIth 38 years of experience in the DC metro real estate market, Lise has sold a number of properties at the Willoughby and loves its amenities and mid century space.
If you’re searching for a well-located, full-service condominium in Friendship Heights that offers real value, the Willoughby deserves a very close look. The Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condos is one of the neighborhood’s most recognizable buildings — and for good reason.
As the largest residential condominium in Friendship Heights, the building is almost a small community unto itself. In fact, it’s so substantial that it carries two addresses:
4515 Willard Avenue and 5500 Friendship Boulevard, with staffed entrances on both sides.
Buyers can choose from a wide range of layouts, including studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences. That variety is one of the greatest strenghts of the Willoughby of Chevy Chase condos — whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizer, investor, or someone looking for a convenient “lock-and-leave” lifestyle.
Why Buyers Consistently Love the Willoughby
Having worked with buyers and sellers in this building for years, I can tell you the appeal is remarkably consistent:
✔ Full-service living
✔ Strong price point compared to neighboring buildings
✔ Outstanding walkability
✔ Wide selection of unit sizes and price ranges
Simply put, the Willoughby often represents one of the most accessible entry points into Friendship Heights homeownership.
A Brief History of the Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condos
Friendship Heights was once farmland, sitting well outside the bustle of Washington, DC. After World War II, however, housing demand surged and the neighborhood began its transformation into the vibrant urban village we know today.
The Willoughby was constructed in 1968–1969, originally as a luxury rental building, and converted to condominiums in 1982. Its scale, design, and amenity package reflected the era’s vision of modern, service-oriented living — a concept that still resonates today.
Amenities at the Willoughby
One of the building’s biggest advantages is its extensive amenity offering. Residents enjoy:
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24-Hour Front Desk – Package handling, guest access, and general assistance
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On-Site Convenience Store – Everyday essentials without leaving the building
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Valet / Dry Cleaning Services
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Fitness Center
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Resident Library
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Party Room
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Rooftop Lounge & Deck – Panoramic views
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Outdoor Pool – Full-size pool and wading pool
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On-Site Restaurant
For many buyers, this level of convenience rivals newer luxury buildings — often at a significantly more attractive price point. If you want to see if any condos are for sale at the WIlloughby or nearby, just click here.
Location, Location, Location
The Willoughby sits in the heart of Friendship Heights, one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the DC metro area.
You’re moments from:
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Metro access (Friendship Heights metro station)
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Grocery stores such as the new Trader Joes on Wisconsin Ave and the Whole Foods on Willard
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Restaurants & cafés like Lia’s, MeiWah, Potbelly and Alfio’s
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Shopping & entertainment such as Saks, Brooks Brothers, Bloomingdale’s and Tiffany
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Medical offices & daily services
It’s an ideal setting for buyers who want urban convenience with a slightly more relaxed, residential feel.
How the Willoughby Compares to Other Friendship Heights Buildings
Friendship Heights offers several excellent condominium options. Here’s how the Willoughby stacks up against three nearby favorites:
4620 North Park Avenue Condominium
The 4620 North Park Avenue Condominium is often considered a step up in terms of finishes and overall ambiance.
Key Differences:
✔ Typically larger units
✔ Many updated interiors
✔ Strong reputation for luxury feel
✔ Higher price per square foot
Who it suits: Buyers seeking more space and a more polished aesthetic, with less emphasis on entry-level pricing.
The Elizabeth Condominium
The Elizabeth Condominium is widely admired for its elegance, indoor pool and boutique-luxury atmosphere.
Key Differences:
✔ Smaller, more intimate building
✔ Larger, upscale residences
✔ Premium pricing
✔ Highly regarded lobby & common areas
Who it suits: Buyers prioritizing exclusivity, larger floorplans, and a more traditional luxury environment.
The Carleton Condominium
The Carleton Condominium offers another full-service experience with a slightly different personality.
Key Differences:
✔ Often larger units than the Willoughby
✔ Higher condo fees in many cases
✔ Generally higher purchase prices
✔ Strong appeal for long-term residents
Who it suits: Buyers wanting full-service living with more generous layouts and less focus on budget-friendly options.
Where the Willoughby Shines
Compared to these buildings, the Willoughby frequently offers:
✔ Lower purchase prices
✔ Greater selection of smaller units
✔ Excellent investor appeal
✔ Full-service amenities at a competitive cost
For many buyers, it represents the best balance of location + services + affordability.
Pet Policy – An Important Consideration
The Willoughby maintains a pet-free policy.
For some buyers, this is a drawback. For others — particularly those with allergies or who prefer quieter hallways — it’s actually a meaningful advantage.
School District
Families living in the Willoughby are typically served by:
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Somerset Elementary School
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Westland Middle School
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Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School
The building has seen increasing appeal among families who value convenience and access to strong public schools.
Market Performance & Pricing Perspective
One of the most common questions I receive:
“How stable are values at the Willoughby?”
Over time, theobuilding has demonstrated consistent demand driven by:
✔ Entry-level pricing
✔ Investor interest
✔ Location strength
✔ Full-service amenities
Prices vary widely depending on:
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Square footage
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Level of renovation
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Floor & view
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Balcony / terrace presence
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Parking inclusion
This variability creates opportunities for both buyers and sellers who understand the building well.
What’s for Sale Now at the Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condos?
FAQs About the Willoughby Condos
Is the Willoughby a good building for first-time buyers?
Absolutely. It’s often one of the most accessible ways to purchase in Friendship Heights.
Are condo fees high?
Fees vary by unit size but reflect the building’s extensive amenities and services. In many cases, buyers find them reasonable relative to comparable full-service buildings.
Is the building investor-friendly?
Yes. Studios and one-bedrooms are particularly attractive to investors due to rental demand and price point.
Do units typically require renovation?
Some do, some don’t. One of the advantages of the Willoughby is the mix of updated and original-condition units, offering flexibility depending on budget and vision.
How does the Willoughby compare to newer buildings?
Newer buildings may offer sleeker finishes, but often at significantly higher prices. The Willoughby frequently delivers better value per square foot.
Does the Willoughby have washers and dryers in unit?
No. The Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condos do not have washers and dryers, but there are two laundry rooms with several washers and dryers on each floor.
Do all the Willoughby units have balconies?
Thinking About Buying or Selling at the Willoughby?
Whether you’re:
✔ Buying your first condo
✔ Downsizing
✔ Investing
✔ Curious about your current unit’s value
Understanding the nuances of this building truly matters.
If you’d like to discuss opportunities at the Willoughby — or compare it thoughtfully to other Friendship Heights options — I’m always happy to help.
Lise Howe
The Lise Howe Group
📞 240-401-5577