Finding affordable housing in Northern Virginia can be challenging as rental rates continue to rise. Fairfax County offers two valuable programs that provide below-market rental opportunities for qualifying households: the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rental Program and the Workforce Dwelling Unit (WDU) Rental Program.
At Belvoir Square Apartments, we are proud to participate in both the ADU and WDU programs, helping make quality housing more accessible to individuals and families throughout Fairfax County. Through these programs, qualifying residents may have the opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of living at Belvoir Square while paying rents set at affordable levels based on household income.
What Are ADUs and WDUs?
Both programs are designed to increase access to affordable housing within privately owned apartment communities.
Affordable Dwelling Units (ADUs)
The ADU Rental Program provides qualified low- and moderate-income households with the opportunity to rent apartments at reduced rates in privately owned and professionally managed communities throughout Fairfax County.
Workforce Dwelling Units (WDUs)
The WDU Rental Program serves households whose incomes may exceed traditional affordable housing limits but who still find it difficult to afford market-rate housing — supporting teachers, healthcare workers, military personnel, first responders, government employees, and other essential members of the local workforce.
How the Programs Work
Unlike public housing, ADU and WDU apartments are located within privately owned market-rate communities. Residents lease directly from the apartment community's management office and are responsible for paying rent just like any other resident. The difference is that rents are capped at affordable levels established by Fairfax County.
At Belvoir Square Apartments, residents participating in the ADU or WDU programs enjoy the same professionally managed community, amenities, and services available to all residents. Affordable housing participants are fully integrated into the community, creating a welcoming and diverse living environment.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is primarily based on household income and household size.
ADU Eligibility
ADU rental units generally serve households earning up to specific percentages of the Area Median Income (AMI), depending on the unit designation and current Fairfax County guidelines.
WDU Eligibility
WDU rental units serve households at several income levels, often ranging from 60% to 120% of the Area Median Income. Income limits are updated annually and vary by household size.
Applicants must meet the income requirements for the specific unit they are applying for and complete the required income verification process.
Is There a Preference System?
Fairfax County may provide preferences for applicants who:
- Live in Fairfax County
- Work in Fairfax County
- Require accessible housing accommodations
While preferences do not guarantee housing placement, they may help prioritize qualified applicants when multiple households apply for the same unit.
How to Apply
If you are interested in an ADU or WDU apartment at Belvoir Square Apartments, our leasing team can help guide you through the application process. Prospective residents should:
- Contact the Belvoir Square leasing office to inquire about current ADU and WDU availability.
- Complete the apartment application and income certification process.
- Provide required documentation regarding household income and composition.
- Await eligibility verification and unit availability.
Because affordable units are limited and demand is often high, interested applicants are encouraged to contact the leasing office as early as possible.
Why Consider Belvoir Square Apartments?
Belvoir Square Apartments offers residents a convenient location near Fort Belvoir, professional on-site management, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Through our participation in Fairfax County's ADU and WDU programs, qualifying residents may have access to affordable rental opportunities without sacrificing quality, comfort, or convenience.
Whether you are beginning your housing search, relocating for work, or looking for a more affordable rental option in Fairfax County, Belvoir Square Apartments is committed to helping residents find a place they are proud to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Workforce Dwelling Unit (WDU) rental programs at Belvoir Square Apartments in Fairfax County, Virginia.
What is the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rental Program?
The ADU Rental Program is a Fairfax County initiative that lets qualified low- and moderate-income households rent apartments at reduced, income-based rates inside privately owned, professionally managed communities like Belvoir Square Apartments near Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
What is the Workforce Dwelling Unit (WDU) Rental Program?
The WDU Rental Program serves Northern Virginia workforce households — including teachers, healthcare workers, military personnel, first responders, and government employees — whose incomes are typically between 60% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and who find market-rate rents difficult to afford.
What is the difference between an ADU and a WDU apartment?
ADU apartments serve lower-income households at reduced percentages of the Area Median Income, while WDU apartments serve moderate- to middle-income workforce households, generally from 60% to 120% of AMI. Both are located inside market-rate communities and follow Fairfax County income and rent guidelines.
Who qualifies for an ADU or WDU apartment at Belvoir Square?
Eligibility is based on household income and household size measured against Fairfax County's annually updated Area Median Income limits. Applicants must meet the income range for the specific unit they apply for and complete Fairfax County's income verification process.
How do I apply for an ADU or WDU apartment at Belvoir Square Apartments?
Follow these steps to apply:
- Contact the Belvoir Square leasing office to confirm current ADU or WDU availability.
- Complete the standard apartment application and income certification forms.
- Submit documentation of household income, assets, and composition.
- Wait for Fairfax County eligibility verification and unit availability.
Are there preferences for Fairfax County residents or workers?
Yes. Fairfax County may prioritize applicants who live in Fairfax County, work in Fairfax County, or require accessible housing accommodations. Preferences help order qualified applicants when multiple households apply for the same unit but do not guarantee placement.
Do ADU and WDU residents get the same amenities as market-rate residents?
Yes. ADU and WDU residents at Belvoir Square Apartments are fully integrated into the community and enjoy the same professionally managed services, amenities, and living experience as every other resident.
How much is rent for an ADU or WDU apartment at Belvoir Square?
Rent for ADU and WDU apartments is capped at levels set annually by Fairfax County based on Area Median Income and household size, so it is generally lower than market-rate rent. Contact the Belvoir Square leasing office for current pricing on available units.
Does Belvoir Square offer affordable apartments near Fort Belvoir?
Yes. Belvoir Square Apartments is located minutes from Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County and participates in both the ADU and WDU rental programs, offering income-qualified households and members of the military and local workforce affordable rental options close to base.
Final Thoughts
Fairfax County's ADU and WDU programs help make housing more attainable for many households across the region. As a participating community in both programs, Belvoir Square Apartments is proud to support Fairfax County's efforts to provide diverse and affordable housing opportunities.
Learn More About ADU & WDU Availability
Contact our leasing office today to discuss current availability, qualification requirements, and next steps for applying.
Contact the Leasing Office