Help me choose between apartments (San Diego, Vista: lease, condo, university)

[Agbagbm]

We have reserved a 2bed/2bath+den at promenade rio vista for $3100/month. We also could take a 3 bed/2 bath at Arrive mission Valley for $2700/month.

Anyone have any insights on these complexes? Thanks!

[RosieSD]

Our opinions on the complexes aren't as important as yours.

Have you toured both apartments and complexes? If not, I'd be sure to do so before signing a lease.

Your mileage may vary, but assuming you have already toured both apartments and complexes, here's what I'd ask myself:

---What are the differences between the two complexes? How important are those differences to us and our quality of life?

---Are the differences at Rio Vista worth it to us to pay an extra $4800 a year and give up an extra bedroom?

--What does my family need in terms of space?

---Would that extra bedroom improve our quality of life and comfort level more than what is outside our door at the other complex?

-- Similarly, would having an extra $4800 a year in disposable income improve our quality of life or financial situation more than what is outside our door at the other complex?

Good luck with your decision!

[GSR13]

Originally Posted by Agbagbm

We have reserved a 2bed/2bath+den at promenade rio vista for $3100/month. We also could take a 3 bed/2 bath at Arrive mission Valley for $2700/month.

Anyone have any insights on these complexes? Thanks!

You could try Yelpyelpm

[sdjimbob]

Just a comment on each location.

The Arrive Mission Valley is really in the Morena area, a formerly very dumpy area that they've cleaned up a lot, with plans for major development in the works. It's not near any residential areas, so I think walking gets a low score. I also think traffic in/out, although bad enough, would be easier than the Rio Vista.

The Rio Vista is the true Mission Valley (East) area, an area with a huge mall and tons of other condo complexes. The area would feel more residential, better walking, worse traffic.

[moved]

Also, Rio Vista is right in back of the Rio Vista trolley station.

[RosieSD]

Originally Posted by moved

Also, Rio Vista is right in back of the Rio Vista trolley station.

The Morena/Linda Vista Trolley stop is right in front of Arrive, so that's a moot difference.

But, one consideration with Arrive is that it is right down the hill from the University of San Diego, and so there may be more college students living there.

Again, tour both and see what appeals, and then weigh the extra $4800 a year.