Detroit has taken a beating on the real estate side of things over the last few years as the big auto makers are slowly losing ground to the Japanese and jobs are disappearing rapidly. The good news is that housing is cheap and apartments are even cheaper. You can even get into the downtown area for a reasonable amount these days. The outlying suburbs include Dearborn Heights, Livonia, Hazel Park, Grosse Point, and Sterling Heights. Farmington Hills and Troy are a little further out but still offer short commutes into the downtown region. Keep in mind that Detrior literally sits just a quick bridge crossing from Canada and the city of Windsor. If you do choose the downtown area think about being near Greektown, the waterfront, or Grand Circus Park. Personally I would go with a rental house out in the suburbs and accept the commute into town since you can get so much for your money these days. Otherwise, go with a high rise apartment complex in downtown and get great city or water views. Detroit has harsh winters and mild summers for the most part and it's very near to Ann Arbor where the University of Michigan is located. Google is starting a facility out in Ann Arbor so the job market there is strong and growing. We suggest that you start your apartment search online at sites like Rent.com or Apartments.com to get a feel for the market and what is available in your desired areas. Call a few property or apartment managers and ask questions about square footage, prices, closet size, parking, pool or fitness access, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, larger units, what type of leases are available, depositis, etc. If you know the area you want to live in already, see if we have any complexes listed below that will take you directly to their website for contact details.
The cost of living is moderate in the Detroit Metro area, and 1 BR apartments will normally set you back $700 or more per month. Below are listings for some Detroit Apartment Rentals.
Here are some more resources to aid in your apartment shopping: Apartment Inspection Checklist - take this on your walkthrus and jot down notes. Avoid Renters Remorse: parking, noise, etc. Check this list.
Rules for Renting a Condo: Condos are a little different..
Your Credit Report: What is shows, what to look for.
Other nearby cities to include in your search are: Auburn Hills, Howell, Harbortown, Southfield, Woodbridge, Ann Arbor, Royal Oak, Grosse Pointe Parks, Rochester Hills,.
Buying a Home in Detroit: Real Estate Brokers and Agents
When looking for a home, whether for a corporate relocation or just moving across town, it always helps to begin with MLS listings to get an idea of what is on the market and what your $$ can buy. Start with MLS Listings. Then find a real estate agent you trust and are comfortable with. Coldwell Banker Residential (313-886-4200) serves the entire Detroit region, aiding in finding a home or planning a relocation. Re/Max Premier Realty is another well-trusted local name (313-640-0100), traditionally dealing in higher end properties. Get information on neighborhoods, schools, property taxes, etc. Check out the tools below:
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