The often forgotten city in Texas is Houston down near the Gulf Coast and Galveston. Houston has always been pretty cheap to live in (cost of living index) and apartments and rental housing remain very affordable compared to other cities of this size. Finding short term, long term, or corporate housing is fairly easy to do. The top apartment finding websites offer up 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom units while the property management sites give you the option of renting a condo or house. Houston does have some congested streets so living near your workplace or school should be a priority. I-45 cuts through the city and the 610 freeway circles the metro region while I-10 splits it into north and south. Downtown offers some good values in rents while living in the outlying towns like Pasadena, Galena Park, Bellaire, Katy, and Hempstead offer even better deals on rent and apartment choices. Luxury apartments are everywhere with pools, huge closets, covered parking, fitness centers, and well thought out floor plans. The Internet has made it easy to view apartments online with sites like Rent.com or Apartments.com. We have tried to list a variety of homepages for many apartment complexes in the Houston region down below. Each site offers pictures, floor plan views, and amenitie lists offered at their complex. Some even let you apply online and start the process without having to speak to anyone. We strongly suggest you get on the phone and at least talk to an apartment manager before doing anything. Get an idea of available and pricing, then do a drive by to get a feel of the neighborhoods that surround the units and visually see if it fits your eye. You should be able to get a 1 year lease on most units and even shorter terms in some cases, although you may pay a monthly premium for shorter stays.
The cost of living is fairly low in the Houston Metro area, and 1 BR apartments will normally set you back $500 or more per month. Below are listings for some Houston 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: Waller, Magnolia, Bellaire, Humble, Spring, Hempstead, Tomball, Deer Park, Katy.
Buying a Home in Houston: 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 (713-623-8899) serves the entire Houston region, aiding in finding a home or planning a relocation. Karen Derr and Associates is another well-trusted local name (713-862-1600). Get information on neighborhoods, schools, property taxes, etc. Check out the tools below:
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