HI Everyone!

My husband and I are from New Orleans, but have been in Chicago ever since Hurricane Katrina. He worked as a professional musician in New Orleans for over 10 years, so that is what he would also hope to do in Austin. I am planning on getting my Master's at UT in Education. I would like to teach elementary school in Austin upon completing my degree.

I have been to Austin numerous times, but only as a tourist, so my information is somewhat limited. From what I have seen, I love the friendly people, the progressive & laid-back lifestyle, the music, mexican food, the weather (we like it hot!), and the beautiful green environment.

The areas that I liked when I was there were what I believe they call SOCO (S. Congress), S. Lamar (S. of the river & N. of Ben White/290), the area around Barton Springs, the area around UT where there seemed to be older homes?, and the area around Laguna Gloria (AMOA). Now, I do NOT really know that much about any of these neighborhoods, so any information would be great!

This is what we are looking for:

Ideally, a 3 bedroom (but a 2 bedroom would do just fine).
Under $1100/month.
A small yard.
Central A/C.
An older, charming home.
An older, more charmiing "green-ish" neighborhood.

The neighborhood does not have to be the MOST convenient or the hippest...something within 20-30 minutes from downtown and/or UT.

Would you mind telling me more about the above mentioned neighborhoods, as well as; Bee Cave, Lakeway, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Rosedale, Clarksville, Tarrytown, & Pemberton?

So, do you think we have a chance? Are there any internet sites that you would recommend besides the Statesman and the Chronicle?

Geez, I know this is a lot to ask...

THANKS!!!! in advance.

Tara

Hi Tara, I can't help you with information about Austin except to say a family member lived there and almost cried when he had to leave, LOL.

Regarding websites. There is www.realtor.com which should have all the properties listed for sale through the Realtors MLS. Now I know you are going to be renting and not buying but I thought checking out the listings would give you an idea as to what type of houses are in Austin etc. Just a thought. Am sure you will be receiving lots of answers to your specific questions. Best wishes to you two, I hope everything works out as you plan, sure am sorry for all you have been through.

Dear Tarajane,

I know that this doesn't help answer your question, but I truly feel for you having to leave your home so abruptly and under such horrendous circumstances. After living in the States for a couple of years, I know that you don't always hear on the news coverage about how the rest of the world is viewing your predicament. Please let me tell you that you all had the prayers and best wishes of everyone around the world and I hope that your life gets considerably easier from now on.

I hope your questions are answered quickly and that you settle down into a wonderful, happy life.

j

Hi tarajane,

I would recommend you start looking at Craigslist.

It may be a little difficult to find a house in your price range close to downtown but it's not impossible! With you going to UT and your husband working as a musician, I think you should try and live in Central Austin and not somewhere in the outskirts.

All the neighborhoods you mentioned liking are good. The area around UT with older homes is Hyde Park. South of the river around SOCO is Travis Heights. The area around Laguna Gloria is Highland Park, I think. All those places are great. Also, anywhere from downtown and north through Allendale are good too. That's where Rosedale that you mentioned is located. You'll find the older, smaller homes located here and the neighborhoods can't be beat. You're close to everything in the city, yet in a quiet neighborhood.

Tarrytown and Pemberton are great neighborhoods too but way out of your price range. And Clarksville is right downtown and probably out of range too. As for Bee Cave, Dripping Springs, and the others you mentioned, you will definitely find lots of house for the money there, but you won't be in Austin and you'll spend way too much time in traffic.

Buying a house in Central Austin can be really expensive but since you're renting, I would really try and get a house down here. If you want to buy later and have to move out of the city then at least you got a good feel for Austin. And you'll be much closer to UT and will be able to take a bus (or walk!) to classes if you want.

If I didn't answer all your questions, please let me know! You're picking the BEST city to move to!!!!

I WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR SHARING ALL OF THEIR WONDERFUL KNOWLEDGE. YOU HAVE ALL BEEN A HUGE HELP!!!!

TARA