November 30, 2001

Archstone-Smith Operating Trust (as successor to Charles E. Smith Residential
Realty L.P.):

We are aware that Archstone-Smith Operating Trust has incorporated by reference
in its previously filed Registration Statement No. 333-68591, Archstone-Smith
Operating Trust's Form 8-K dated November 27, 2001, which includes our report
dated November 2, 2001 covering the unaudited interim financial information
contained therein. Pursuant to Regulation C of the Securities Act of 1933, that
report is not considered a part of the registration statement prepared or
certified by our firm or a report prepared or certified by our firm within the
meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act. It should be noted that we have not
performed any procedures subsequent to November 2, 2001.

                               Very truly yours,
                               /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP