Say What!: What's 'Masonvale'?

Are you wondering what lies beyond the curious road snaking past Eastern Roads? Construction and “No Trespassing” signs prevented the passerby from catching a glimpse at the village. Now, Masonvale, a community of luxury apartments, has one, two, and three bedroom apartments available for leasing.

But if you thought you could pass up the run-of-the-mill collegiate accommodations for a sweeter deal, you are out of luck. Students are not in the running for obtaining housing through Masonvale.

According to the Masonvale Frequently Asked Questions page, “any Mason employee, graduate or professional student, or City of Fairfax/County employees including the public school system is eligible to rent a home at Masonvale.”

Leases for any type of apartment at Masonvale are conditional, but can range from 12 months to 24 months.

The plus side of living in a Masonvale rental, is that the rent is typically lower than the rest of the Fairfax area. Tenants are only responsible for water and electricity utility bills, as cable and high speed internet are available as a function of rent.

Cats and dogs are allowed in Masonvale, but just many off-campus living situations there is a monthly fee pertaining to the weight of the pet as well as a safety deposit.

If you were to rent a single bedroom apartment through Masonvale, the price for the 617 square feet apartment is $1210 a month. That rent fee ends up being about $3,040 more than a nine month lease through Northern Neck for a similar one bedroom, one bathroom apartment; or $4,470 more through Student Apartments or Student Townhouses.

All of these figures, of course, may vary since the Masonvale rent fee does not include the utilities.

The swankiest accommodations, called “The Potomac” boasts three bedrooms, two and a half baths and 1469 square feet for a grand total of $2130. All units are equipped with steel-face appliances, dishwashers, washers and dryers, and a private patio or balcony.