considering a move to the valley...... (Phoenix, Mesa: apartment, renters, condo)

[adventuregurl]

Ok, I know most of you will think I'm crazy but I'm thinking of moving south to the valley. I'm single late 40's and really needing a place that offers something more than Sedona, the area I'm in. I know in a few years I will probably want to come back up here but that's ok!

I am self employed, don't have to commute anywhere, and make the same amount of money no matter where I live, so a lower cost of living is definately a benefit for me but at the same time I want to be in a nice place.

Things I like are hiking, Trader Joe's, health food stores and access to other fun things to do (not bars). A view would be great if possible.

Any thoughts on where I should consider looking, and what rental prices should I expect? I want to rent until I'm sure I want to stay there?
Thanks!

[observer53]

Tempe.. South Mountain Park close by, Trader Joes, Whole Foods, light rail and other good public transit, lots of classes and activities, etc through the parks and rec dept, and all sorts of stuff going on at ASU that the whole community can take advantage of. Health food stores too. If you are in the southern part of town, you know the University is there when you want it, but you don't feel like you are in a typical "college town".

[adventuregurl]

thanks observer...what are the street boundaries you are suggesting? I don't really know the area except the freeways.

Also do you have any idea of the rents?

[observer53]

You know, I'm not familiar with the rental prices, as I haven't rented an apartment in years. Look on some of the rental websites, plug in ZIP codes 85283 and 85284. There are some rentals in 85282 that would be fine too (that's the furthest north of the three ZIP codes, but it's still south of the University). That should give you an idea of rental costs. More info, ask, or DM me. I'm sure there are some Tempe renters on here that will give you some help, too.

[surferguy]

Is Sedona a little to small town for you?

[AzDreamer]

The link below shows Trader Joe's locations in the valley. Click the "Terrain View" button to see where there is decent hiking. For hiking I usually go to the Phoenix Mountain Preserves East of 51 but South Mountain Park also has lots of good trails.

Trader Joe's AZ - Google Maps

[adventuregurl]

Originally Posted by surferguy

Is Sedona a little to small town for you?

Yup, I love it and the hiking is unbeatable but after 2 1/2 years I always find myself needing a bit more (shopping, things to do, etc.). It's also very transient so friends move away frequently.

[adventuregurl]

thanks AZDreamer...I am looking for some personal experience on what places would be good, not just the proximity too TJs and hiking but that is a good start.

[Jamieazexpat]

We pay $800pm in a really nice place in Mesa with a great view of Superstition Mountain. There are plenty of things to do. Not sure about the closest TJ's but we are opposite a Sprouts, which is really good.

Love Sedona! But i can see how you'd get bored. I hope you find something suitable down here.

[adventuregurl]

Originally Posted by Jamieazexpat

We pay $800pm in a really nice place in Mesa with a great view of Superstition Mountain. There are plenty of things to do. Not sure about the closest TJ's but we are opposite a Sprouts, which is really good.

Love Sedona! But i can see how you'd get bored. I hope you find something suitable down here.

Thanks Jamie, is that an apartment, patio home, condo, or? Sprouts is good, I can do with a TJs run every week or 2, right now it's every month or two