Well alot of what you are hearing is correct and some not correct. Depending on where in Washington Heights you are looking you can find apartments well below $2,000 for a 2 bedroom.

I actually LIVE IN Washington Heights just off the A train, and love it here. I have a floor through of a brownstone, AND a backyard, which is unheard of in Manhattan, so I am really looking forward to the summer months.

I would suggest coming to NYC and staying with a friend a checking out some of the areas so you can see what you are comfortable with. I live just around the corner from the A/B/C/D subway lines and can be in midtown in 20 minutes which is one of the reasons this area is being gentrified.

I would suggest also taking a look at Craig's List for apartments, and most of them there is no fee associated, since you are renting through the owners.

My building was recently redone, and there are several on my block that have been rennovated and one that was just completed so will check to see if any of the apartments have been rented.

This area (just off St. Nicholas Ave) is an historic area, and alot of the brownstones and blocks are really beautiful. I love having the subway so close and also have the #1 train just 2 blocks away.

If you need more specific info, please let me know and if there is a specific address I would be happy to check it out for you.

Welcome to NYC!!!

Thanks for all your help!