Looking to move out in the summer for my 1st place. I've got a budget of around $1000 max. Has anyone had any luck with apartment locator services? Or how did you find your place? Thanks! tws011
Is it feasible as well for $1000? Ideally just a place where it's pretty bug-free, mold-free and crime-free. Ideally close to work too near Oak Forest area.
Awesome, thanks man! I've used ApartmentRatings.com so far and Hotpads.com, but I dig the commute calculator. Sweet.
Hmm. I wish I could edit my posts... how can I do that? Wanted to add, has anyone had experience with ApartmentRatings.com and why are a lot of reviews negative? It's hard to wade through and tell who's just grumpy and pissed and who's objective.
I used Apartment Wiz. they are a local apartment hunting place. I had a friend who worked there, used them as a reference, and got a pretty decent deal on a place I knew I already liked. Since they're referring you to a place you should get a better rate and they get paid something I'm sure. It's a win win.
My mom is a realtor if you need some help. Inside the loop there's only a few places you can get with that budget. Outside the loop your options open up a lot more.
I disagree completely with your first statement, unless you're referring only to newly built high-rises and the like. I live in a 2-bedroom for $975. I helped my friend find a 2-bedroom last week for $950, although gas/water are not included. You can easily find a 1-bedroom for $850-900. I've always had the most success on Craigslist. You're right about having more options outside of the loop. That's because living outside of the loop sucks (traffic, etc.). I wouldn't live outside of the loop unless I were looking to own property.
Get a roommate for your first place. You'll be able to afford a nicer area, nicer place, and are still young enough where it's compeltely acceptable to have a domestic partner.
Bobloblaw, when you say 1 bedroom for $850-900 inside the loop is that closer to studio sq ftage or 700ish? Well, even though it's not a bad idea but I am 28. I'd like to just get a place solo and outright.
The 1-bedrooms at my complex are pretty small and go for $895. I don't know the exact square footage. Essentially you're looking at a 10x8 living room and a similar sized bedroom with a small kitchen. Not ideal, but the price is right.
Not bad. What area inside the loop? Also for Craigslist, do they discount the apartment units more? I've seen some units on there that seem like they're posted up on other apartment searching sites. Same price? or diff?
It's funny how we refer to "inside the loop" forgetting that 3rd, 5th ward, north side, East and SE are all in the loop.
