Moving from Indianapolis to Amsterdam, NY (Albany, Schenectady: renting, landlords, college)

[Elsie50]

I have a job opportunity to move to the Amsterdam, NY area. I'm single (recently divorced) , 2 dogs, kids are off at college. I'm sure from the name you can guess my age. I don't show it though. Trying to get some ideas on best places to live. Thought about renting for awhile to get a feel of the area. Not sure how "dog friendly" it is.

Looking for any advice on locations, single life etc.

[JiminCT]

Move to Albany and commute to Amsterdam. Amsterdam is one of the more depressing places of blight.

[goodmau]

I second that, Amsterdam is the poster child for eastern industrial flight and the resulting urban decay. Think empty abandoned factories and high poverty. If you can afford it, and can handle the commute (about 30 miles or 45 min - and not on a highway) I would recommend Saratoga Springs. It is a walkable city, a college town and resort. There are parks to take your dogs and enough to do and see that you can get out and meet other singles. I'd compare it to Bloomington, IN, but with more Long Island tourists in the summer, and a bit less "gritty". Another option, which is a bit more suburban-y, but also closer to Amsterdam (20mi) is Niskayuna. Its a nice little community buffered from the urban blight which is Schenectady (another poster child for urban decay and poverty - a big thank you to General Electric on that one).

[leeasi]

Elsie,

Is this move a sure thing or are you considering it?

I totally LOVE Montgomery county and highly recommend it. Dog-friendly usually depends on how well-trained and well-behaved your animals are. Crate-trained is always a plus for landlords. I have rented in the past from landlords that advertise NO pets, because I went to meet with them and brought my VERY well-trained dog with me.

If this is a sure move for you, please don't hesitate to give me a shout, I'd be glad to help out with anything you might need.

Lisa M.
(518)620-4035
doggiedog9@yahoo.com