another relocation question (Lexington: rental homes, credit, buying a home)

[bakerdes]

Hello, I am considering relocating to Nashville. I've read through many past forums and a lot of people talk about 'good' areas and 'bad' areas.
I am interested in some more specific information if anyone has time.

I have spent time in New York, Austin, Detroit and Lexington, Ky in the past. What gets considered a 'bad' neighborhood in Lexington would not be nearly as frowned upon in other cities.

I am a single parent with two kids on a budget. Individual public schools are not as important to me as I am willing to use magnet schools and schools of choice.

Being able to walk or ride a bike to a grocery, bank or park is imporant to me. Also, that other people in the area are doing the same.

I am considering Inglewood, Madison and Lockeland Springs.
When I consider something safe I mean that my children and I are safe with our doors locked and that we are not planning on walking after 9pm.
Safe to play in the yard and ride bikes during the day, etc.

So what particular neighborhoods or parts of neighborhoods would you recommend in our situation? I like character and diversity.
Thank you for your time.

[alleycat]

Sounds like Inglewood or one of the other parts of East Nashville might be a good fit. You would have to be a little careful; East Nashville is improving but there are parts of it that are still iffy.

[bnewman]

what kind of budget for housing are you talking about? That'll will certainly dictate to some extent which areas might be a fit for you and your kids, too. I'm a single mom as well, so I understand your concerns. Let's get the money issue addressed, then we can go from there!

Thanks!

[bakerdes]

I'm hoping for monthly rent of about $1000.00

I don't mind neighbors with piercings, tattoos, non-english speaking etc. I do mind having to run and look out the window every time I hear a sound.
Thanks a lot for your help.

[bnewman]

with a budget of $1,000, would you consider buying a home vs renting? you could certainly purchase a home with that monthly payment if you preferred and have the credit...feel free to PM me on this if you prefer.

[artemis]

Inglewood is just the kind of neighborhood you've described. For $1000 per month, you should be able to find a nice home to rent.

[Sookie]

I agree with the above posters. Being a single mom I'd suggest you stick more to Inglewood than the other 2 mentioned areas that are closeby. There are buses too, though a bit slow to areas outside of downtown, but they are available and several schools closeby too. I've seen several cute rental homes in the area, unsure of the prices though.