Real Estate near UT (Austin, West: rentals, HOA, condos)

[phxgirl1009]

Hello, my husband is applying to doctoral programs in sociology, and we are considering one at UT-Austin. We would like to buy a condo or small home nearby, so that he can walk or ride the UT shuttle to class. What areas near campus should we look at? We are in our late 20's and are looking for a quieter area rather than the "party" scene. Thanks!

[sanmiguel]

Checkout the Hancock neighborhood which is just north of UT. The area bordered by Duval and Red River between 41st and 45th streets. Not as much crime and noise as Hyde Park. It is amazing how quiet it is only a couple of blocks to the Hancock shopping center with good bus connections.

[austin-steve]

Sanmiguel gives good advice. Stay out of West Campus and look in North Campus and up through Hyde Park.
Steve

[phxgirl1009]

Thank so much for the insight! Would be interested in hearing additional comments from others. Budget is approx 125k. Thanks!

[achtungpv]

Unfortunately you ain't living anywhere near UT for $125K.

[mark311]

Actually, I believe there are some areas of West Campus (22nd, 24th St.) that have some small condos under $125K. (400 to 600 square feet).
However, West Campus, as others have stated does have a lot of students so it won't be quiet. It would be safe other than normal University bike/auto theft, but there would be a lot of activity.

You probably already know, but be sure to add the relatively high property taxes of the Austin area as well as the condo HOA dues into your budget. You might be better off looking at some rentals first if you're not too set on buying right away.

[austin-steve]

Unfortunately you ain't living anywhere near UT for $125K.

That's correct. Your best bet if $125K is your absolute cap and you absolutely want to buy instead of rent is to look for a small condo in south or north Austin near a bus line. The East Riverside area have some condo conversions happening, but $125K is a very difficult budget to work with and stay close to UT.

Steve

[phxgirl1009]

Thank you, everyone, for all of your replies! I appreciate your feedback and will remember it when/if we decide to buy in Austin!

[Francie Little]

Originally Posted by phxgirl1009

Hello, my husband is applying to doctoral programs in sociology, and we are considering one at UT-Austin. We would like to buy a condo or small home nearby, so that he can walk or ride the UT shuttle to class. What areas near campus should we look at? We are in our late 20's and are looking for a quieter area rather than the "party" scene. Thanks!

Why don't you check out The Bungalows at Forty Acres? North campus area, so you aren't in the party 'hood. Your husband can walk to campus, and the interiors are totally updated. Awesome complex. You are going to have a hard time finding a decent condo for $125,000. Check out the website and email me if you want to look at the units. Bungalows Austin

[MJinAustin]

Or look off of Steck. There's a campus bus that goes there and there are lots of condos near your price range. Most are higher...but I think you can get something for around what you want.