If you’re hunting for an affordable, charming place near downtown DC, Kenwood House in Bethesda, MD should definitely be on your radar. This mid-century modern co-op, tucked away at 5100 Dorset Avenue right by Little Falls Parkway, checks a lot of boxes — affordability, location, and a ton of amenities.
Why Kenwood House is Such a Great Find
Imagine waking up to cherry blossoms outside your window, hopping on the Capital Crescent Trail for a morning bike ride, and being able to stroll into downtown Bethesda in about 15 minutes. If that sounds like your vibe, Kenwood House could be your next home.
This mid-century co-op has large, bright rooms and those big windows we all love. Most kitchens are galley-style and separate from the living space — though some units have been opened up for that more modern, airy feel.
One thing to know: the monthly co-op fee includes a lot (taxes, insurance, utilities... the works), which can sometimes scare people off because it looks high at first glance. But once you realize what's packed into it, it’s actually a pretty sweet deal. (Need a quick refresher on how co-ops and condos are different? I’ve got you covered — click here.)
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot that’s still super convenient, Kenwood House deserves a spot on your list.
A Quick Snapshot of Kenwood House
Built in 1962, Kenwood House is a boutique-sized co-op with about 70 units spread across five floors. It’s nestled right between Little Falls and the Capital Crescent Trail, giving you lush green views from almost every window. Plus, it’s smoke-free and pet-free (service animals and emotional support animals are the exception). Bonus: the community recently added EV charging stations!
What's for Sale at Kenwood House?
Here’s what’s currently on the market:
5100 Dorset Ave #305— 3 bed / 2 baths— $695,000
5100 Dorset Ave #506 — 2 beds / 2 baths — $399,000
5100 Dorset Ave #111 — 1 beds / 1 baths — $229,000
5100 Dorset Ave #112 — 1 bed / 1 bath — $198,500
(Availability changes fast, so check here for the latest!)
What’s Included in the Co-op Fee?
You’re going to love this: with one monthly payment, you cover property taxes, all utilities (yep, even electric and gas), insurance, building maintenance, snow removal, on-site management, parking, and more.
Basically, everything but your phone and upgraded cable is included.
For context:
In 2016, one-bedrooms ran about $773/month.
By 2021, fees had risen a bit (mostly because of a new mortgage the co-op took on), but they still include everything.
Recently, monthly fees range from around $1100 to slightly under $2200, depending on unit size and parking.
- In 2025, an 890 square foot unit has a co-op fee of $1137 and the 1500 square foot unit has a co-op fee of $2189.
Tip: Co-op fees can seem intimidating, but remember — they include taxes and utilities, which you’d be paying separately anyway with a condo. When you add it all up, it often makes a lot more sense financially.
👉 Learn more about co-op vs condo fees here.
Kenwood House Floorplans
You’ve got options here:
1-bedrooms are roomy at 840 square feet (tiers 07, 10, 11, and 12).
2-bedrooms start at 1100 square feet (tier 02) and go up to 1300 sq ft (tiers 00, 01, 08, 09, 14).
3-bedrooms? A spacious 1500 square feet (tiers 04 and 05).
Looking for available units? Click here.
Recent Sales
A couple of recent highlights:
Unit 510 (1 bed/1 bath) sold for $275,000 — top-floor views and a sleek renovated kitchen.
Unit 202 (2 beds/2 baths) sold for $299,900 — bright, updated, and move-in ready.
Not much inventory lately (it’s a hot spot!), so if you see something you like, move fast.
Schools Around Kenwood House
If schools matter to you, you’re in luck — kids here attend the popular BCC (Bethesda-Chevy Chase) cluster:
Somerset Elementary
Westland Middle
Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School (with a top-rated International Baccalaureate program!)
Private school options like Holton Arms, Landon, and Washington Episcopal are close by too.
👉 Learn more about local schools here.
What’s Nearby?
While Kenwood House feels tucked away and peaceful, you’re still close to everything:
Downtown Bethesda is about a mile walk away.
Two Metro stops (Bethesda + Friendship Heights) are nearby.
The Capital Crescent Trail is literally outside your door — perfect for biking, running, or just a leisurely stroll.
Whole Foods and Giant are just minutes away for groceries.
Westbard Square (newly redeveloped) offers restaurants, shopping, and even a new Tatte bakery and Starbucks!
And if you’re into golf or tennis, Kenwood Country Club is practically around the corner.
Thinking About Selling at Kenwood House?
If you already live here (lucky you!) and are thinking of selling, don't trust those automated "what’s my home worth" estimates online. They're usually way off. I can give you a real, up-to-the-minute market analysis based on actual sales — not old public records.
Request your free home evaluation here.
Let's Chat!
I’m Lise Howe — a local real estate agent with over 37 years of experience (and yes, I’m also a former attorney, which comes in handy in real estate!). I know Bethesda, Chevy Chase, and Northwest DC inside and out.
If you want an agent who’s tech-savvy, strategic, and 100% focused on your needs, let’s grab coffee and chat!
📞 Call/text me at 240-401-5577
📧 Email me at lise@lisehowe.com
Can’t wait to help you find — or sell — your next home!
👉 See what’s for sale right now
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