Help with apartment decision (Phoenix, Glendale: spring break, apartments, crime rate)

[crosscountryski]

Hi

I can only imagine what everyone else is thinking when they read the title. Another person who is moving to Arizona with no solid plan or job in mind.

Not me! I am somewhat lucky. I have secured a teaching job months ago. I spent a wonderful spring break week enjoying the sun in Phoenix and looking at apartments. When I was there, I focused my apartment search on Peoria, Avondale and some parts of Glendale as well as how close it is to hwy 101. I came back with a list of 7 possible places in Peoria/Glendale area and 3 in Avondale. I have narrowed it down to 3 places in Peoria/Glendale area. All are about 8-10 miles from the school or about a 15 minute drive.

I just found out last week that I will most likely be placed in the Alhambra Elementary School District. Now, the tough part is here. Trying to figure out where I will live.

How reliable are the apartment ratings? Does anyone know anything about these places? I am really torn between all three. The crime rate isn't too bad.

Waterford at Peoria
Alta Park West Apartments
Arrowhead Landing

thanks
Jennifer

[observer53]

Generally, the overly negative ratings are by someone with an axe to grind that may not be valid or may be a very small complaint blown out of proportion. So, sort of like some of the threads here, take the extremes with a grain of salt. Since you've seen them all, you are in a better position to choose than most of us. I'd make the choice based on small things-- the size of the rooms, the "feel" of the place, how well-maintained it looked, the amenities offered, and go from there. From what I could see (and I didn't go to the rating sites on all of them) you could choose any of the three.

[crosscountryski]

Hi

Thanks. I ended up signing with Waterford apartments today. I liked the fact that they have built in desks and a breakfast bar area plus full size washer and dryer. It's a nice place

thanks
Jennifer