New neighborhood advice (Taylor and Western ish?) (real estate, leasing)

[long101]

Hey guys,

My lease is up Feb 1st (yes it sucks moving in the winter) and Im ready to move to a different neighborhood and hopefully a nicer place. Its myself and my girlfirend, we are both in our 20s, she goes to nursing school at UIC and I work in the loop. Im pretty much stuck around the UIC tri-taylor/south loop area because of her. Ive been looking at places around Taylor/harrison and western and they are about 300 bucks less a month then a mile down taylor by say Taylor and Loomis. I know there are some threads on this area but would just like some personal insight. Taylor and Western isnt the best area but Ive driven through it at night and it looked pretty decent to me. Does anyone think this is to far west or to sketchy? We both do go out at night, take the EL daily, and I have a pretty nice car that would be parked on the street. I know the city just invested a few million in prettying up the area I would just love to hear from some people that have spent some time in the area, since I didnt do that when I moved to the area I am in now haha. Im looking to spend around $1200 or 1300 for a decent size 2br that is nice. Any and all recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

[BlackburnSells]

Hey long101. The area you are talking about has built up very well over the past few years. Single family homes are even getting rather pricey around there. Personally, I do like the area. I think it is dependent on your comfort level. You could go closer to greek town if you'd like to find a rental as well, however, your money might not go as far and on days like today (snowing!) you will be a bit cold.I work in real estate as an agent but also leasing. If you need help finding a place let me know (costs you nothing!). Just shoot me a message. Good Luck - Have a great Holiday