Torrance area apts safe, clean, and under $2200 attainable? (Huntington Beach, Santa Monica: rentals, condo)

[CORNMAR]

Considering bailing from Scottsdale, AZ in search of "WATER". Cali vs Florida. Redondo Beach area is top of bucket list....if I win the lottery. Currently own a $350K upscale 2BD/2Bath condo (fabulous laundry room bigger than friend's NYC entire bath-kitchen)at base of Scottsdale Mountain/border of Fountain Hills. Love the balcony views, nearby hiking and outdoor "stuff" year round, but....nothing beats ocean views...nothing. Resort style community pool here to die for.....but we are the only couple under the age of 70 here (we are 50 and 51 but don't act or feel it....interracial as well which I am sure is not an issue for CA but is definitely a factor in any search for Florida)
Trying to be practical so tossing coin between Florida vs CA. Only reason Florida is in mix is of course budget . But does Florida just mean turning in what we have ....."upscale, comfy, but surrounded by retirees"...into a trade for "this:.... with water"?

Recently visited southern CA, fell in LOVE with Redondo area...bike riding up and back to Santa Monica...amazing energy/vibe, people watching, and outdoor pub adult beverages at noon with live music by the pier....no brainer right?
So I am starting my search for perhaps anywhere between Torrance- Seal Beach/Huntington Beach. I get that ocean views from my balcony just isn't possible, but a bike ride ride away/short drive would still be glorious.
Will plan on renting a 1-2 BD apt for first 1-2 years . Budget for rent approximately $1,800-$2200. MUST have secure parking for BMW (prized acquisition from hard battle in divorce)while hopefully being in the position to purchase a condo (2BD) or single family (2-3 BD) under $5K....stop laughing. A girl can dream....and do the necessary grunt work, research, plot/plan and cross fingers in the meantime...

Empty nest so young children not an issue. Safety and cleanliness a priority.

[tashagwilt]

Redondo is a great area. I am from FL, and definitely get why you fell in love with Southern California. There are some rentals in that price range, but they are tougher to come by depending on what you are looking for. As far as the purchase, you can get a 2 bedroom condo in the range you mention - the house would be more on the upper end or out of that range for the monthly payment. I think you are taking a smart approach to coming here and renting at first as you adjust to the area, and then looking to buy. Let me know if you need any help - it's what I do.

[thelopez2]

Originally Posted by CORNMAR

Considering bailing from Scottsdale, AZ in search of "WATER". Cali vs Florida. Redondo Beach area is top of bucket list....if I win the lottery. Currently own a $350K upscale 2BD/2Bath condo (fabulous laundry room bigger than friend's NYC entire bath-kitchen)at base of Scottsdale Mountain/border of Fountain Hills. Love the balcony views, nearby hiking and outdoor "stuff" year round, but....nothing beats ocean views...nothing. Resort style community pool here to die for.....but we are the only couple under the age of 70 here (we are 50 and 51 but don't act or feel it....interracial as well which I am sure is not an issue for CA but is definitely a factor in any search for Florida)
Trying to be practical so tossing coin between Florida vs CA. Only reason Florida is in mix is of course budget . But does Florida just mean turning in what we have ....."upscale, comfy, but surrounded by retirees"...into a trade for "this:.... with water"?

Recently visited southern CA, fell in LOVE with Redondo area...bike riding up and back to Santa Monica...amazing energy/vibe, people watching, and outdoor pub adult beverages at noon with live music by the pier....no brainer right?
So I am starting my search for perhaps anywhere between Torrance- Seal Beach/Huntington Beach. I get that ocean views from my balcony just isn't possible, but a bike ride ride away/short drive would still be glorious.
Will plan on renting a 1-2 BD apt for first 1-2 years . Budget for rent approximately $1,800-$2200. MUST have secure parking for BMW (prized acquisition from hard battle in divorce)while hopefully being in the position to purchase a condo (2BD) or single family (2-3 BD) under $5K....stop laughing. A girl can dream....and do the necessary grunt work, research, plot/plan and cross fingers in the meantime...

Empty nest so young children not an issue. Safety and cleanliness a priority.

$1800 can get you a one bedroom with an ocean view and possibly 1 block from the beach. $2200 might get you a 2bedroom 2 bath with an ocean view but a few blocks from the beach. "Secured" parking is subjective. A 2BR condo under 500k is obtainable.