Most people are familiar with areas like Georgetown, Capitol Hill and Dupont Circle, not to mention Bethesda, Maryland, and Alexandria, Virginia. But the District of Columbiacomprises dozens of unique areas with which even seasoned residents may not be familiar, each of them offering its own array of dining, entertainment and housing options.

What many homebuyers aren’t aware of are the great neighborhoods located right next door to these booming areas, offering homes for much more affordable prices.

We asked top real estate agents in the District, listed by real estate data companyOpenHouse Realty (a U.S. News partner) to give buyers the inside track on some very affordable and desirable neighborhoods that might not be on their radar screen – but should be.