T.A.B. says:

To begin, avoid fees if you can. There is probably a catch that you're unaware of that would prevent you from renting (like, it's already under contract to someone else).

You'll probably have to make a 1 month deposit, wherever you go. Keep in mind that Phil's apartment (if memory serves) is about $1000 per month and that's about a half-hour commute from Manhattan.

I honestly don't know where you could find a one-bedroom for $800 per month. Maybe in Jersey City Heights? For NJ, there are local listings at http://www.hudsonreporter.com. You could also look at realtor.com.

That's my two cents, for now.

Wes says:

Did yours charge a fee, Tamara? And if so, do you feel it was worth it?

Becky says:

I have to agree with Lori in that you may be better off finding something with a roommate at $800/month. Craig's List can be a good place to start, even with a roommate search. They have options to include those with broker fees and those without. I'm glad you decided to go for it -- I think you will be happier, even if it's a little awkward at first. I hope you're up there by the second weekend!

NJWT says:

Yeah for $800 or less, you're talking Jersey side, Bro.

Greg says:

You already know how to eat cheap, but you'll probably have to hold off on a lot of things for a few months, like DVD binges. A roommate would probably be required if you want any place that's in good condition and actually has space. And, most importantly, prepare for a tough upcoming year or so.

heg says:

I wish you more luck than you will ever need my friend: The Jersey side looks best to me also. You are a good man Wes, but just as with other skilled artist; the odds are you will crash and burn at least once, in your brave effort to make it to the top. Remember, if you do, it will only be temporary. How you recover and carry yourself will define your true character. While we all unamimously applaud you: There will be those bigots who will resent your presence, do not let their petty jealousies destory your inner spirit. Believe in yourself and you will overcome.

NJWT says:

Stamford is nice, but that's not moving to New York, that's moving to Stamford. It's like an hour train ride.

For $800, you're maybe talking Journal Square in JC, otherwise, that's bus territory.

Where does Heg live?

Mickey says:

You're right, moving to Stamford isn't moving to New York. It was just a suggestion!

Phil says:

For $800 you might be able to get a shitty studio in a shitty neighborhood of an outer-borough. Rental prices in NYC are insane. I didn't want a roommate and didn't want a studio either so I had to put off getting a 1-bedroom until I could afford 1 g a month. And that's in an area that's usually 45 minutes from Manhattan (only 30 mins if I'm lucky in connecting to the express trains!).

So my advice is similar to everyone elses : consider a roommate, consider a small studio, consider the outer-outer boroughs or NJ.

Wes says:

Guys -- guys! Does the PATH run all night, too? Because I'm looking at Craigslist... and Jersey City could SO work!

Wes says:

"PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) rapid transit trains provide service between New Jersey and New York City 24 hours per day, seven days per week."

Thank you, dear Tamara! Of course, factoring the cost of the PATH trains into things, that would take my monthly expenses up... but I'd be living in a relatively nice place instead of a grimy studio, which would rule!

dave says:

Wes, the PATH is $2 a ride, I think... or $1.50.

Also, I've seen studios in Weehawken for $650 or so, but that's bus territory, and that's not all night long.

Of course, you can always move once you get established and maybe get a better job.

Wendy says:

Whoa - I've been behind in my blog reading and it looks as thought I missed out on some big news! Congratulations, Wes! Do you have a job lined up yet? I have always thought you should move to the NYC area. Way to go! And good luck!