Possible Relocation Work in Lakewood (Denver, Sheridan: apartments, rental, condos)

[Dream41180]

I am thinking about applying for a job that would be in Lakewood. This would be a big move from southeast region. The only thing worrying me is figuring out where to live. I unfortunately will need to rent for a year before buying, but I am not picky on type from condo to single family. My wants are:
1. Walkability to groceries, eateries, parks, etc....1 car family with my husband at home with a toddler and preschooler.
2. Good School district
3. Reasonable commute...I would like the option to use rail, but hoping for a commute of less than 30 minutes.
4. Safe area

I do not know reasonable expectations for rent so please indicate average rents for areas. We only need a 2/1 but prefer a 2/2 or 3/2 if possible.

Thank you

[davebarnes]

Originally Posted by Dream41180

Denver seems nice but expensive

Very true for housing.
What is your rental budget?

[SkyDog77]

You would like to use rail...is work near a rail stop?

[ALStafford]

Where in Lakewood? If it's at the Federal Center, or St. Anthony's, the light rail is right there, and opens up some options. But if you're, say, Wadsworth and 285, light rail to work is not in the cards for you. Regardless, start looking in the Belmar area of Lakewood. It's centrally located in Lakewood, has a wide range of home types, single family, townhouses, condos, apartments, and is designed as a walking community. I can walk to grocery stores, restaurants, a movie theater, parks, a library. I'm not terribly familiar with the elementary schools in the area, hopefully someone can chime in on that.

[Dream41180]

I am hoping for less than $1,000 but I can afford up to $1,300/$1,400. My salary will be approximately $70,000 with my husband working part time with a monthly income of $800-$1,000.

Love that you saw my other thread. I'm torn on whether to move forward on this job opportunity or wait for the next.

[Dream41180]

The job is near Market Square Shopping Center off of W Alameda Dr.

[ALStafford]

Your price point is a little low for a 2/2 that has the amenities you desire. You *might* be able to find a 2/1 in the Belmar area, or maybe a 2/2 closer to the light rail on Colfax in Lakewood, but you'd be giving up walkability, and, depending on where you find, schools. If you can go up to $1500-1600, that would open things up considerably.

[Dream41180]

I think it's about 2 miles from federal rail station or red rocks college rail station.

[Dream41180]

Belmar are looks great! My husband is a restaraunt manager so walk ability to eateries serves purpose of both access to places and work for him, so it is quite important. Whoever has the kids gets the car is how we have always operated.

Any other options less than a mile to light rail since I will have to walk? The commute is unfortunately what will have to shift. We might be a ble to go a little higher on budget but I nee to get a better understanding of utility costs first. What's an average power, cable, water and gas bill?

[2bindenver]

Look to Lakewood to start. There are apartments and condos for rent all over. Start looking in Belmar, Green Mountain areas.

Lakewood covers a lot of ground. Sheridan to C-470 and Hampden to 20th ish.
See City of Lakewood