I really loved staying at Mark's place, and here's why:
1. Location: You just can't beat the location of Mark's place (esp. for the price). The place is located on Capitol Hill. It is close enough to get to and from the Hill, which is great if you're like me and working on the Hill, but far enough away so that you don't have tourists walking past your front door everyday.
2. Access to Food: There are also tons of great places to eat--all within walking distance. Mark mentioned a few places to me, including 8th street (full of great spots), H street, and also Eastern Market, which has food trucks set up every Saturday and Sunday! Do yourself a favor and do Eastern Market at least once!
3. Transportation: Mark's place is nestled right in between two metro stops and about a block or two away from a bus stop. I was able to get to and from my destinations very easily--which was important to someone like me, from Texas, who had never used a metro system before.
4. Host: Mark is a great host. He was very friendly and even helped with my bags when I arrived and when I departed. That might not seem like much to most, but to me, it was very welcoming. I went to D.C. for a 10 week summer internship and didn't know ANYONE. So, a simple gesture such as helping me with my bags meant that I was going to be okay. Also, Mark opens his house up for laundry purposes, and at literally any time you need it. That was very helpful for me since I got out of work late most of the time, and wouldn't get home until later, so I sometimes had to do laundry at weird hours (10 pm, etc.). Mark didn't seem to have an issue with that, so that was super helpful. Finally, I really like that he gave me the space I needed, but was also available when I needed. Im sort of introverted, so interaction was minimal--but in my short interactions with Mark, he was kind, thoughtful, and carried a great conversation. He even loaned me some law related flash cards (we are both in the legal field).
All in all, this is a great place to stay. I would absolutely stay here again and would recommend this place to anyone looking to stay on Capitol Hill!