Relocating to Houston, interested in Montrose/Museum district, need advice (apartment complex, rental)

[DespicableMe]

Hi,

I'm a single guy, mid 20s relocating to Houston from St. Louis and I find Montrose to be a very interesting neighborhood to live.

I just wanted to know if there are any specific resources to look for apartments in this area since all I find on craigslist are realtors advertising their websites with little to no information on the location or information on the apartment.

Also is around $900 - $1000 a manageable budget for a nice looking studio or 1 BR apartment in this area or should I be prepared to fork out $1200+ for an apartment?

Any other information/opinions would be highly welcomed and FYI I'll be working at the med center.

Cheers!

[testmo]

if you want a really nice place to yourself it will be 1200. but 900-1000 there are plenty of one bedrooms and studios.

it is a very nice and pretty commute from the area to med center. easy bike ride as well if you have access to showers

Houston Press classifieds is how I found my old places as well as dealing with Craigslist advertisements. There are some home/apartment rental companies that specialize in "in the loop" properties. I found my townhouse through them. "in the loop" meaning inside 610

[cheryjohns]

www.har.com
www.forrent.com
www.apartmentguide.com

[tebor79]

I like Montrose and think you are making a wise decision. it is close to TMC and to Downtown and offers much in the way on entertainment

[DespicableMe]

Thanks for the responses.

[HoustonRonnie]

I doubt you'll get much more than a postage stamp studio with that budget. But, it's worth a look.

Ronnie

[DespicableMe]

Yeah, I wouldn't mind spending more for the right place but just wanted to know what the prevailing rent is like for the area.

Obviously having a short commute and a walkable neighborhood would save me a lot on transport so might as well funnel that towards rent.

[testmo]

i'd go for something in the $1,100 - $1,300 price range personally. you can find an older renovated duplex 2 bedroom in that price range. if you prefer an apartment the large newer complexes (full amenities) that is about their starting price. duplex will give you more bang for your buck

[DespicableMe]

I wouldn't find any use for a 2 BR house. I use very little furniture and don't have the patience/ability to tidy up and maintain a bigger house. Moreover if the house has central air, its juts going to cost me more on utilities.

I'd be finely sufficient with a slightly roomy studio or a smaller 1 BR unit. Since I might not have the chance to look at the property before moving, I'd preferably find a 6 month lease in a good apartment complex and then look for options once I have a good idea of the neighborhoods.

[testmo]

well the newer complexes are over a 1000 for a studio to 1500 for a one bedroom if you want a workout room and secured parking etc. i was in a small two bedroom duplex without central air for $1100. it is pretty expensive there to live in a nice/nicer place