Possible Relocation to Cincinnati / NKy (Kent, Norwood: foreclosure, to rent, condo)

[chippewa88]

I know this question has been asked several times, so I apologize for the redundancy, but I was unable to find an answer that pertained to my particular situation.

Have you searched this forum for answers to your questions before posting a new inquiry? Yes

What specific topic have you not found answers to? Location, Neighborhood safety

Where is your current location and environment? Outside the Detroit, MI area

Are you looking for similar in Cincinnati or a change? No preference

Where will your work location be? I-71 and Martin Luther King (Avondale area?)

Maximum commute time desired? would like it to be under 20 minutes, 30 min at most

What is you budget for housing? $800 - $1000

Rent or buy? Start off renting then buy later

Type (Apt., Condo, Single Family) No preference

Size (Approx. Sq. Ft., # Bedrooms & Baths) 1000 sq ft, 2 bdrms / 1 bath (minimum)

Other specifics? pet-friendly

Older, distinctive architecture, individual character. I'm fascinated with the older homes. I love their charm and distinctive features. But, it would need to be in a safe neighborhood. I may consider an older home that needs fixing-up as long as I feel safe in the area.

Modern, 15 yrs old or less, move-in ready Modern is nice too.
Very safe, low crime area

Can tolerate some degree of crime potential? How Much? I could tolerate a small degree of crime potential but I'll be living by myself for the first few months so I don't want to feel scared to be alone, especially at night. And I'd like to be able to take a walk on a nice day without the fear of being robbed.
Community amenities?
Daily needs within walking distance, shopping, restaurants, parks, etc.


I appreciate any advice and/or suggestions.

[motorman]

From what you've already noted, a lot of nearby neighborhoods will probably suit you--all of them urban and urbane; none of them mired in crime; all of them near downtown; and all of them adequately served by public transportation.

If you will, please tell us more about yourself. For example, are you being employed within the "hospital district"? Single or with other members needing future consideration, etc? And, generally speaking, what are some of your own personal preferences? For example, are you sports-oriented, a "foodie," entertainment-minded, etc? All important considerations... Welcome to Cincinnati.

[Misfit Toy]

If I could do it over again, I would have given Fort Thomas, KY a closer look. Good school district (Highlands), close to everything yet also kind of tucked away on the hill at the same time. Possible downsides include the over-emphasis on football and some resistance to outsiders. Northern Kentucky also has a raging heroin epidemic that's affecting everyone. The Ohio side has an epidemic underway, too, but it's really out of control in Kentucky.

But, I know a family who moved there several years ago (they are not Ft Thomas natives) and they're pretty happy with it overall. Still worth a look IMHO.

[natininja]

Look at Oakley. It's relatively close to your job and fits your budget. Clifton is also a possibility. So is Hyde Park, which is a bit more money than the other two. CUF if you want an area more youthful and urban. Pleasant Ridge and Norwood are also possibilities -- you could get more space for your dollar in those areas. St. Bernard is a name you don't hear much on this board but might fit; it's definitely close to your work.

Fort Thomas might be good if you want something more suburban, but it could really extend commute time. (Crossing the river from NKY can be a bear in morning rush.)

[chippewa88]

Thank you for the suggestions. I will look into those areas. Although I said I'd like to rent before buying, what can you tell me about the area this house is located in?

1985 Ridgetop Way, Cincinnati, OH 45238 - Zillow

Motorman - my possible job opportunity is within the hospital district. I am married so my husband will be needing to find employment. I have a son who recently graduated from college and he may be joining in the move at a later date. As for personal tastes, I like a little bit of everything you mention, but I mostly prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city but not too far out in the boonies. I'd like to be close enough so that we can enjoy all the city has to offer and then return home to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

[TomJones123]

Originally Posted by chippewa88

can you tell me about the area this house is located in?

Looks like Westwood. Parts of Westwood can be rough, and others really nice.

[Sarah Perry]

Originally Posted by chippewa88

Thank you for the suggestions. I will look into those areas. Although I said I'd like to rent before buying, what can you tell me about the area this house is located in?

1985 Ridgetop Way, Cincinnati, OH 45238 - Zillow

Motorman - my possible job opportunity is within the hospital district. I am married so my husband will be needing to find employment. I have a son who recently graduated from college and he may be joining in the move at a later date. As for personal tastes, I like a little bit of everything you mention, but I mostly prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city but not too far out in the boonies. I'd like to be close enough so that we can enjoy all the city has to offer and then return home to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

The overall area where the house is located is rough. However, if memory serves, this subdivison was a featured "Citirama" development a few years ago, and the house may have the advantage of some remaining years of a local property tax abatement in addition to the appealing foreclosure pricing.

I would GUESS the subdivision isn't much affected by the problems of the surrounding area. Similar little pocket neighborhoods are scattered around Cincinnati, in part due to the hilly terrain. I live in a similar area which has had nothing more than a handful of home break-ins over the 13 years I've been here, although the crime stats list for incidents within a mile of my home is as long as your arm. There's one way in and out (as with the neighborhood you asked about),the neighbors keep an eye on things, and I don't think overall it looks at all appealing to criminals.

In this case there really would be no substitute for talking with the people who live there.

[Misfit Toy]

Originally Posted by chippewa88

Thank you for the suggestions. I will look into those areas. Although I said I'd like to rent before buying, what can you tell me about the area this house is located in?

1985 Ridgetop Way, Cincinnati, OH 45238 - Zillow

Motorman - my possible job opportunity is within the hospital district. I am married so my husband will be needing to find employment. I have a son who recently graduated from college and he may be joining in the move at a later date. As for personal tastes, I like a little bit of everything you mention, but I mostly prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city but not too far out in the boonies. I'd like to be close enough so that we can enjoy all the city has to offer and then return home to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

That area is way too shaky - I don't recommend it.

[chippewa88]

OK, so from what I gather with your responses, the area of Westwood should be avoided. Are there any other specific areas that should be avoided? I would really like an area where I can enjoy being outside on a nice day and where I can feel safe.

[TomJones123]

Originally Posted by chippewa88

OK, so from what I gather with your responses, the area of Westwood should be avoided.

Westwood is a huge neighborhood. To say it should be avoided is just not accurate. There are areas that are rough and areas that are alright. You just have to do your own due diligence. Personally, I would take Sarah Perry's advice and talk to the neighbors. Also, it would be worth visiting the neighborhood during the day and at night if at all possible. I wouldn't write off one of the city's largest neighborhoods based on opinions on city data.