Relocating from Indiana to CR (Des Moines, Cedar Rapids: relocation, housing, rental)

[purdue99]

I am relocating from West Lafayette, IN to CR in about 4 weeks to work at Rockwell Collins. Any suggestions on the best way to find a rental home/apartment? Is there a "preferred" side of town? I have only been once, for an interview, thus not familiar with the area. Any suggestions or advice? Thanks!

[WoodwardGirl]

Unless you are in a hurry to get out of apartments, I'd rent on the north side to be close to work. In Cedar Rapids, that means addresses on the NE side and possibly some SE, Marion or Hiawatha (I can't think of many apartments in Robins, but I could be out of the loop!) You'd also be close to Lindale mall and the Collins road restaurants and grocery store. Get your feet under you for a year and explore the place and then move to a different type of housing/different area if you decide that's what you want.

There are loads of places to rent, many newer. I can't believe Collins isn't providing you with more information! I mean, it seems like the HR department is as big as some small countries... I know the CR Chamber has provided information before when I was trying to recruit people from out of town. Try them The Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce -- down at the bottom, email to ask for one of their relocation packages and explain your situation and ask if there is anyone else you should contact.

[camanter]

I would call Rockwell HR, they have temp housing for many of there new employee for at least a couple of months. If you are looking for short term housing just to get your feet wet. Find out what building you will be working in. There are several apts within walking distance from the C Ave building and the Main Plant has several Duplexs or 4 plexs by it. Just do a Google search. But I would recontact Rockwell's HR. I work for RC and we pride ourselves on making a easy transition for new hires.

[metro223]

Hey I was thinking about moving to Cedar Rapids before I moved to Des Moines, one great thing to help you find apartments is Apartments for rent - ApartmentFinder.com ... you can find most of the apts in Cedar Rapids under the Davenport/Cedar Rapids region.... and you can also easily order the catalog for this region for free online and it comes in a couple days... its good help I would definately recommend it if you haven't found anything yet.