[rascha]

Hi,

We are locating from Long Island NY to the greater Hartford area this fall where my boyfriend will be beginning his doctorate at University of Hartford . We are currently living in a great apartment that is extremely pet friendly and just absolutely love it so this move will be a tough one. We are expecting to be in the area for at least 4 years and need some suggestions on safe areas to live, possibly apartment complexes that anyone has personal experience with and any helpful hints.

We are both in our early-mid 20s, and do appreciate an area that has great restaurants and shopping somewhat close by. We don't need an area with a lively night life; we just want to live somewhere we'll both feel safe and somewhat close to the university. We began some online searches in West Hartford and Glastonbury (Addison Mill). Apartment must be pet friendly, we have 2 cats and a small dog. I would prefer one with hardwood floors and somewhat walk able to places but the safeness of the area and a pet friendly building take precedent to all. A helpful management company is also important, I have read some horrible reviews on a lot of places

I will also be looking for a job in education. I will be certified in general education and special education birth-2nd grade (M.S.Ed) so any information on the teaching situation in CT would be greatly appreciated!!

[rascha]

I also wanted to add our budget is up to 1550/month, we'd like a 2 bedroom but a 1 bedroom would work as well.

[T Pinto]

Addison Mills is a good choice and is one of Glastonbury's new, sought after apartment complexes. The only other one that will allow dogs is Griswold Gardens. It is close to the center of town and some shopping. Also has good access to highways.
You may also want to consider renting a townhome. You will still have the conveniences of an apartment like snow removal, lawn maintenance etc. Your budget should be able to find you a decent 2bed place in Glastonbury. Good luck!

[parentologist]

For that price, you can rent a small house in West Hartford near the center, which has what you want. You're more likely to find a house which will take the pets, than an apartment complex. Commuting across the river can be challenging - I'd suggest living closer to U. Ha on the west side of the CT river. You're in luck with your special ed cert - special ed teachers are in demand. Check out Charter Oak online state college regarding programs to help you get your certification transferred.

[Stylo]

No point in going to Glastonbury as WH is closer and has everything you need for your budget. Glastonbury is nice but has less to do, less restaurants, etc. It's more suburban.

[Aquaboy]

If you land in WH make sure you have parking. Overnight street parking is illegal in West Hartford. Ask me how I know..

[JayCT]

I have to agree that you should start your search in West Hartford. It is much more convenient to UHart than Glastonbury. There are not a lot of large apartment complexes in the area, particularly ones that take so many pets, so you might need to find a condo or house. You may want to consider using a local realtor to find a place or check craigslist.com. Jay

[rascha]

Hi All,

Thank you for the replies. We have heard many great things about West Hartford and it is our first choice on where we would like to live. A condo or small house would be great since we would need the extra space for out of town guests but I haven't seen many listed now to get ideas on the different areas of West Hartford and whether or not what becomes available is pet friendly and it seems like a lot isn't. It is too early to actually search but this is a big move for both of us and we are excited to be relocating to the area but sad to be leaving where we're currently living. Thanks everyone again!

Does anyone have the name of a good real estate agent in the area?

[JayCT]

I have heard good things about Amy Bergquist who posts here often. She has helped several people here including me and lives/works in the West Hartford area. Jay

[hueyeats]

W Hartford is the place to be.
Used to live there.