a place to live...

I know it's only February and we're not moving until the end of June, but I'm anxious about finding a nice place to live in Los Angeles. I've been pretty spoiled by the apartment I currently live in. It's in a safe area, walk-able distance from the hospital, lots of easy street parking, and large enough for all the junk we collectively own. We even have a pantry! I've been here for almost 6 years.

LA is a littttttttttttttle pricier. Major factors that affect where we live will be:

proximity to the hospital (though who knows where husband will end up working)
good location where we can avoid traffic (yes, this can be done in LA)
affordable, especially since we're on the waiting list for UCLA housing (which I'm told there's a good chance we can get, and if we're not going to take it, I have to have a good reason)

So... I've been browsing craigslist. Ideally, I would like to live in a 2-bedroom apartment with hardwood floors, at least 1 parking spot, either in West Hollywood or Beverly Hills adjacent. These areas seem like they would be fun, and close to UCLA but not TOO close to UCLA, and also near my parents and sister.

Here's the other major factor... while I can't imagine living with my parents, after more than 10 years of being out of the house, they happen to be building their "dream house" in a dream neighborhood. Needless to say, there will be lots of room for the WHOLE family and free rent.

old house:

new house:

in the meantime, I'm finding that craigslist has apartments that are clearly out of our price range. two bedroom apartments for over $2,000. i have found a handful (literally less than 5) of possibilities that actually fit our criteria, but obviously now and may not be available for June. so the search continues...