Milwaukee Rental/Moving Questions (Wauwatosa: apartments, credit, houses)

[progress35296]

Hi, I'm a college student looking to relocate to Milwaukee in Summer 09, because I am transfering schools.

I have a few questions because I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. I have been renting since Fall 2007, and have a good rental history. I do not have any credit history, but my parents are open to co-signing a place if needed. Another issue I have is that I have a misdemanor criminal conviction that I am in the process of getting expunged, but it might still be on my record in spring. The offense happened over 2 years ago, but I'm concerned it may cause an issue.

When I moved into the place I rent now, I had a very low level of rent I was willing to pay monthly, and needed a place on a bus line. Now I have a better paying job and a vehicle. I looked on Craigslists and a couple renting sites, and when I put in my information, I get 20+ apartments that match my location/rent amount.

How do I narrow down my selections?
Also, if I'm looking to rent in June, when's a good time for looking for places? Around April?

Thanks, and sorry if some of this has been asked before.

[robmart]

What exactly are you looking for?
Will you be going to UWMilwaukee?
What price range are you looking at?

Depending on your interests/comfortability in diverse neighborhoods, suggestions will vary.

[progress35296]

I'm looking for a studio or one bedroom, around or less than $500-550 a month.
I'm going to be attending Mount Mary, but where I live doesn't nessecarily have to be around there.

[#Littledog]

I would look into Wauwatosa or the east side of Milwaukee. Wauwatosa is close to Mount Mary; some apartments would be out of your range but I've noticed some houses and duplexes that are offering "sleeping rooms". I don't know if these are advertised but I see the signs on the lawns as I drive around. The east side has a lot of apartments but even the studios might be higher than your price range. Riverwest might be more affordable for you but it's not quite as safe as the east side or Tosa. It looks like you have time, though, so you won't have to settle for something you don't like...I'm sure Mount Mary would be a good resource for apartment hunting in Milwaukee...

[progress35296]

Originally Posted by #Littledog

I would look into Wauwatosa or the east side of Milwaukee. Wauwatosa is close to Mount Mary; some apartments would be out of your range but I've noticed some houses and duplexes that are offering "sleeping rooms". I don't know if these are advertised but I see the signs on the lawns as I drive around. The east side has a lot of apartments but even the studios might be higher than your price range. Riverwest might be more affordable for you but it's not quite as safe as the east side or Tosa. It looks like you have time, though, so you won't have to settle for something you don't like...I'm sure Mount Mary would be a good resource for apartment hunting in Milwaukee...

Thanks for your help in locations. I have contacted Mt Mary about it but they haven't emailed me back yet. Do you think themisdemeanor record would cause a problem with rental agencies?