Lakewood area - finding a rental home (Dallas, Plano: apartment, rentals)

[Lantelami]

I'm relocating to Dallas for work at the end of April. I posted about a week ago asking whether or not it was worthwhile to use an apartment locator service. I contacted 3 different companies, but it's mostly been a waste of time-- one ignored my budget, and the other two have been really pushy about me signing a lease right now, sight unseen, which I am not comfortable with.

Anyway, I'm heading down to Dallas in about a week for a house-hunting trip. A friend who used to live in Dallas suggested the Lakewood neighborhood-- she said she knew people who rented duplexes there that had some character, and it was close to parks/White Rock Lake. I'd be all about a duplex or small apartment building rather than the massive complexes that seem to be the norm in Addison or Plano. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find much of anything online. So I'm wondering if Lakewood is an area where most rentals just get a "For Rent" sign but aren't posted online anywhere?

Also, if anyone else has any other suggestions of areas within Dallas that are close to the intersection of LBJ freeway/Dallas north tollway (where I'll work), that would be awesome. My ideal area would be close to parks/green spaces of some kind. I'm single/no kids, so 1 bedroom is fine, and I'm looking to spend a max of $850 a month.

Thanks!

[pepper131]

Most rentals are just a sign in the yard. You'll probably be looking at streets off Skillman, Matilda and Greenville.

[mSooner]

Rents have gone up quite a bit, and that budget is tough for Lakewood/Mstreets anyway. We're paying $950/month for a redone duplex that will be renting for $1050 month (2 year lease) or $1150/month (1 year lease) when we move out. This in the M Streets area.

We found the homes near Bryan/Ross etc. were cheaping when we were looking, but the areas didn't feel safe enough to me. When we were driving around looking, we talk to one lady in her yard who told us to stay north of Richmond or Belmont when looking in the MStreets and that turned out to be good advice

[lpepping]

I have lived south of Richmond for many years a haven't ever had a problem with crime. But I do agree there probably is a little more than north of Richmond.

[mSooner]

I have lived south of Richmond for many years a haven't ever had a problem with crime. But I do agree there probably is a little more than north of Richmond.

I should note I was basing my opinion on how I would feel being alone some evenings when my husband was away. I don't know...it really seems to depend on the specific block. Some south of Richmond look pretty nice...some look downright scary.

[lpepping]

Originally Posted by mSooner

I should note I was basing my opinion on how I would feel being alone some evenings when my husband was away. I don't know...it really seems to depend on the specific block. Some south of Richmond look pretty nice...some look downright scary.

Yes I agree some do look a little scary. I actually lived on one of the streets I thought were a bit sketchy and it turned out to be very safe with great neighbors for the most part. But I understand what you are saying.

[Lantelami]

Does anyone have any thoughts about the area just to the east of White Rock Lake in terms of safety?

I found a 1 bedroom duplex there that looks great and is in my price range. It's a couple of blocks away from Lake Highlands Park.

Thanks!

[loves2read]

did you Google for one of the crime maps that are online to check that area?
or call the local police

[pepper131]

My babysitter lives there off Lake Highlands Dr - they have no issues except for all the sports teams that park along their street to use the fields at the park.

The area between the park and Garland Rd is Lake Park Estates - a nice active neighborhood with great ranch homes.

On Harter is St Johns - you can get a lot of traffic there with school drop off and pick up times.

Just up Buckner and Northcliff is Green Spot where they host the White Rock Local Market.

On Peavy just north of Garland Rd is Good2Go Taco and Goodfriend - where you'll find everyone is the neighborhood has embraced these local businesses - they are packed!!

It's a great area and so close to the lake!

[pepper131]

Btw - I heard from my friend's nanny who has been looking in the same areas as you - make a decision FAST! The lost out on many great places that they wanted to think about before signing the lease. When they went back to make contact, they found out that a day to look around more made a huge difference!!