Should I just move first?

[neinei876]

MassVt, thanks for your honesty. I, too, have heard competition was fierce in Boston. In addition, being educated in the west coast, I feel the competition would be even worse for me because the east coast schools and people tend to be better educated, in general.

[MassVt]

Originally Posted by neinei876

MassVt, thanks for your honesty. I, too, have heard competition was fierce in Boston. In addition, being educated in the west coast, I feel the competition would be even worse for me because the east coast schools and people tend to be better educated, in general.

It's not unusual to be forced to pay for the first month, last month, a security deposit AND a realtor's fee to secure an apt here; not every case, but a decent number. You could easily spend a quarter/half of all your savings just getting started here...

Keep us informed..if you find the time..

[neinei876]

MassVt, I know some places in SF ask for the same except the realtor's fee. Where I am, it's usually deposit and first month's rent.

Will keep you updated . I'm trying to plan a trip up to the bay area for memorial day weekend. Hopefully it will fall into place and I'll get to see the area. I wish I could just hop on a train or plane and go to Chicago but I'm just too far.