Looking for Apt in the Schaumburg area (Arlington Heights, Palatine: apartment complex, condos)

[arp0925]

Hello, I'm moving from Birmingham,AL to Schaumburg because I got a job at the Department of Transportation as a Civil Engineer Trainee. My salary is around $52K so I'm wondering what sort of price range should I be looking for with respect to apt. I only need a one bedroom and one bathroom place. Also do any of you recommend any specific apt complex. Thank you for your time.

[chitown85]

In Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Arlington Heights, Palatine, and Wheeling, you will look to pay between $800 and $1000 per month for a 1 bedroom. These are generally the better suburbs to live in and the commute wouldn't be bad if you are working in Schaumburg.

What are you looking for in an apartment and apartment complex?

[arp0925]

A nice area that isn't too pricey. Utilities being included or some utilities being included is also a big factor. A convenient location so that I don't have to drive to far for work, nightlife/entertainment, groceries/bank/etc stuff. Also getting high speed internet in my apt is also important to me.

Basically I don't want to go over $1k. I'd be happy if I can find something in the $800 range.

I would like the complex to have a good laundry facility and probably a good exercise facility.

Btw, how much should I expect utilities to be up there?

[arp0925]

I also want to add that I am in my 20s(will turn 26 in Sept) so I don't want to get stuck in an apt complex full of old people.

[chet everett]

I'd worry less about old people than scary poor people packed into tiny apartments too small for large families and noisy unsupervised children at the price range you are thinking in the region you are considering...

[arp0925]

point taken chet. do you have any places in mind? also what is your input on the region.

[chet everett]

I drive by a ton a bigger complexes out that way and many of them have the look of families crowded into apartments -- the balconies are used to store kids bikes, there are strollers all over the place, too many beat up minivans in the parking lot.

The places that are a bit more money and a bit less crowded would probably not put too much of a crimp on your budget and you would have a lot more peace and quiet.

I am also sure there lots of privately owned townhouses that are rented out, again a bit more money that you are looking to spend, but a much nicer experience that you could afford on you salary.

Another option that you might also look at would be privately owned condos that are rented out, some are quite affordable and they too tend not to attract the same sort of tenants as the large complexes. Downtown Arlington Height has several such listings and it might offer a nice mix of things to do after work for a younger single guy too.

Good Luck!