Need rental housing information (Denver, Wheat Ridge: apartment, condo, crime)

[rlaroque]

I have recently secured a position in Denver, and my partner and I will be relocating at the end of August. Since neither of us are familiar with the area, we are first going to rent a home before buying; this way we can take our time to find the area we want to buy in. We want a house as opposed to an apartment, but have no idea where to start looking. My job is in Wheat Ridge and we aren't sure where she will be working yet. It will most likely be in downtown or north Denver, or Englewood. Does anyone know of someplace that is central to these locations, that is relatively safe. We are moving from Kansas City where the crime has become rapant, and really want to stay away from areas that remind us of KC. We want to be able to walk our dogs at night, feel safe, and meet people along the way. Any feedback will be appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.

[2bindenver]

It's important not to settle in an area until your partner lands a job. Then you can figure out what is doable as far as a commute.

I stayed in a hotel for two weeks before I bought a condo in lakewood. 9 months after I moved here I bought a house. We kept the condo for years as income property.

There are plenty of areas to rent in that are also walkable and pet friendly.