Moving To NC. Looking For A Great Area Near Charlotte. (Norman: apartments, rental)

[saint_jack]

Hi,

I'm considering taking a job with a Charlotte-based company, and know nothing about NC. I'm a California boy, moving from overseas, and want to rent a nice place, in a good area. I'm not sure what the "downtown" areas are like, as I'm used to living in nicer condos/apartments with a good view.
My rental budget is up to 3.5K per month, and I do play golf and love the ocean. The office is in the 77/49/160 highway area, and I don't have to be in the office every day.
I'm 41, straight and single, and wouldn't mind a decent nightlife scene!
Too much to ask for?

Totally lost in NC!!!!!

[south.charlotte&union]

First off, you won't have an ocean view here -- the ocean is a few hours away. But we do have lakes. Based on where you are working, I would suggest either the Lake Wylie area (you can get lake views there) or Ballantyne, as there is more retail/restaurants there. For what you can spend on rent, you can pretty much live anywhere -- buying would definitely be an option for you, unless this is not a permanent move.

[Kari Strong]

Hi Jack-
Change your mind on Chicago?
Well you could easily live in Uptown, with a great view, for your budget. You will not find anything like La Jolla or the OC here. Where in Cali did you live?
For night life and a view, stick with Uptown.

[saint_jack]

Hah, Kari....You're quick! Yes Chicago didn't happen, and this is a maybe, but you and all the good people at City-Data are so helpful, that this is one of the first places I go when I'm told there may be a move!
As before, my budget is not really an issue, but would like to get my bang for the buck, and I have certainly lived in more urban settings as of late. I am interested in the good restaurants/bars, etc, but one thing I do worry about is leaving a house when I travel so much.
I guess that's why an apartment or penthouse where I can get a big outdoor space but still lock one door as I leave is appealing. Any ideas from you NC experts? I really appreciate the help!!

[the 7 oh 4]

I would definately suggest Uptown Charlotte. Uptown is very safe too.

GOOD LUCK!

[lovesMountains]

Originally Posted by saint_jack

Hah, Kari....You're quick! Yes Chicago didn't happen, and this is a maybe, but you and all the good people at City-Data are so helpful, that this is one of the first places I go when I'm told there may be a move!
As before, my budget is not really an issue, but would like to get my bang for the buck, and I have certainly lived in more urban settings as of late. I am interested in the good restaurants/bars, etc, but one thing I do worry about is leaving a house when I travel so much.
I guess that's why an apartment or penthouse where I can get a big outdoor space but still lock one door as I leave is appealing. Any ideas from you NC experts? I really appreciate the help!!

Jack, I think you have some great options in your price range. My top suggestions for you would be either a condo rental uptown, or living up on the lake in a condo. Both will put you in the middle of the nightlife and things to do with singles like yourself.

My other choice would be a rental home on the outskirts of uptown in the Elizabeth or Plaza Midwood area, except for the fact you will be traveling and more likely to have a problem leaving a home unguarded. So, stick to uptown or Lake Norman

[QC Misfit]

I would get a nice penthouse Downtown.

[saint_jack]

Thanks for all the input! Where would you guys recommend as far as a penthouse in Uptown? Any really good buildings? Jacuzzi outdoors? Please let me know, as most I've seen have been a bit cheesy!

[saint_jack]

Any uptown, more upscale condos that you'd recommend?

Cheers,
Jack

[hooligan]

The Vue Charlotte, The Avenue and Trademark are all uptown and pretty swanky. I don't know how many of them have been purchased as investment/rental properties, though.

One place you might want to consider is The Residence in the South Park area. TONS of restaurants and shopping in that area, a sprinkling of bars and only a few minutes drive from uptown...