Input for S. Portland, anyone?? PLZ?? (Belfast, Camden: to rent, condo, buying a house)

[phf919]

I am going to be moving real soon and my sis has a condo in S. Portland, ME to rent to me from Oct. - May, while I look for a house in the meantime, elsewhere. I am originally from New England and know what to expect for the seasons and all but Ive been living in NC for the last many yrs. (we are military). Can anyone plz give me the pros & cons of living in S. Portland? Her condo is very old but close to most everything.....THX so much for your help!!!

[pinkpalace]

Pros: Portland is great. It's pretty close to my idea of utopia. The old port is cool, the city is fun, and Portland has the best shopping anywhere in Maine. It's only a 90 minute drive to Boston.

Cons: Buying a house in southern Maine will be pricey. The cost of utilities will be a nasty surprise.

[phf919]

Im not buying in Maine, just possibly renting there while I travel to find our home in another state. The option of my sister's condo is an affordable one & Im trying to get an idea of what it will be like living in this area during the fall/winter/early spring. Is S. Portland active year round? (I was there last Sept. for awhile and have travelled north of there to Camden & Belfast and that was pretty dead in the winter...I must say.)

Eh, the winter is what it is temp wise but Im just wondering if it will be too isolated (or if ppl there are open minded to newcomers, etc.). Does anyone have any experience of living in the older-style condo's there?? Thx again for your input.....it will help me make a decision soon.