Bethesda, MD Real Estate Listings & Homes for Sale

Downtown Bethesda’s growth, height limits, design, and affordable housing obligations are governed by the Bethesda Downtown Plan and the BOZ. The BOZ sets an overall development cap, controls how extra density is allocated, and ties approvals to design review (Design Advisory Panel) and MPDU delivery—factors that directly affect what can be built, renovated, or purchased on a given block. Buyers should assess whether a property sits inside the BOZ and how nearby pipeline projects may influence light, views, and streetscape.

Bethesda will be a transfer point between Metrorail’s Red Line and the under-construction Purple Line, with the rebuilt Capital Crescent Trail running alongside portions of the light-rail corridor. Expect improved regional access and trail connectivity—but also temporary construction impacts, shifting detours, and evolving micro-location premiums near station portals and the tunnel. Verify the latest work zones and trail timetables when evaluating blocks and stacks.

Downtown Bethesda is both an Urban District and a Parking Lot District. The County funds enhanced “clean and safe,” marketing/events, and a free Circulator through Urban/PLD revenues; it also operates most public garages with posted rates and rules. This means superior downtown services—but it also introduces district-specific fees/taxes and parking dynamics that differ from surrounding suburbs. Factor these operating conditions into HOA/retail underwriting and daily living.

Montgomery County liberalized Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), easing lot-size and parking constraints, with reduced or waived minimums near Metro/Purple Line stations. In practice, many Bethesda single-family lots can add a rental or multigenerational suite, potentially improving long-term value and cash flow—especially within walking distance of transit. Confirm the property’s zone, distance to stations, and on-street parking eligibility before modeling returns.

Bethesda addresses feed several highly sought MCPS clusters (e.g., B-CC, Whitman, Walter Johnson), but exact assignments are address-specific and subject to ongoing boundary reviews. For family buyers and resale planning, verify the parcel’s current cluster and monitor boundary study updates rather than assuming based on neighborhood name alone.

Even in infill Bethesda, redevelopment or tear-down/new-build scenarios hinge on WSSC water/sewer service categories and connection fees (e.g., system development charges and permit fees). If a lot requires a category change or upsizing, timelines and costs can shift materially. Check the County’s service-area category map and WSSC’s current fee schedules early in feasibility.