Just give it a fancy name and it becomes more socially acceptable.

Tinder. Or the people down the street from me. They have some pineapples outside.

This. If you’re renting and living with roommates you can find fairly comparable rents in DC and avoid the commuting headache. If you’re buying it’s a different story.

Are you set on living alone or are you open to roommates? If you’re open to roommates you can live anywhere in the city.

I’ve moved to MD twice and had a different car each time. Both cars were in what I would consider good shape. Both had recently passed VA inspections. Both failed first time inspections in MD. I’d get a second opinion, but don’t be surprised if you need to make some repairs before passing.