Over the holiday break we took a trip to Portland and went on an apartment hunting mission. I’m grateful that we were able to make the time to physically look at apartments in Portland. Reviewing craig’s list ads was a great starting point, but it doesn’t compare to seeing properties in person.
We found a beautiful little apartment in Northwest Portland! It’s a large studio (about 350 square feet) that has a cottage like feel. I’m really excited about living in this space. I love the design. Once we get settled I’ll give you a video tour of our abode.
If you’re in the process of moving, consider some of these tips…
1. Start your search on Craig’s List or with local property management firms.
2. Walk the neighborhood and get a feel for the surroundings. While walking in the neighborhood look for leasing availability or “For Rent” signs in front of cute places. Call and ask questions, request tours and try to not make assumptions before you see the inside.
3. Think about what type of community you want to live in and ask yourself these questions: Is it walkable? Bike friendly? Is my new home close to public transit?
4. Consider design and space. How much space do you need? Can you do without a large apartment if it’s designed well?
Do you have any tips to add? Share your thoughts in the comments section. 
{ 24 comments… read them below or add one }
Great tips, Tammy. Though I am so insanely jealous of you West-coasters with your bike-friendly cities filled with charming architecture.
I live in Texas, and all of the apartments here are cookie-cutter, dry-walled, carpeted, stock-cabinet disasters. It’s next on my list to move to a “real” city with public transportation. I’m so tired of sitting in traffic and have been since I visited London six years ago. Oh, to hop on the Tube and go wherever I want! Congratulations on the move, as well as finding a great place. Change is brave. 
@chesapeake – I hope your dream comes true soon. Sitting in traffic is no fun. Boo I say!
Maybe you will join us in Portland? If you ever come out for a visit, look me up. I’d love to have coffee or tea with you.
Ohhh the Tube! My brother and sister in-law have been to London and their transit system sounds amazing.
Thanks for your support and reading the blog. It means a lot.
Be well and do good.
Absolutely I will! That sounds fantastic.
Ahhh Portland, the land of working public transit and higher density living. I’m so excited for you!
Check out The Bhaktishop on SE Division at 26th (on 2 bus lines!) for some yoga hugs.
@Tami – thanks for the tip. The Bhaktishop sounds perfect! I can’t wait to try it out. Yay!
Congratulations! It looks so sweet on the outside… I can’t wait to see it in person down the road…
Thank you Laura! The apartment is so cute. I can’t wait to give RowdyReaders a video tour.
You are going to LOVE living in NW Portland. Everything is so accessible! I’m sorry I wasn’t able to meet up while you were here–was suuuper sick! But I’m glad you found a great place
@Catherine – No worries. We’ll have to plan a coffee date sometime in Feb. Can’t wait to meet you in person.
I can hardly wait for the video tour!
That’s wonderful! I’m so excited for you, you guys have to show us the inside soon if it all works out
How exciting! I am happy for you guys.
Hi Tammy,
Glad to read that you’ve found a delightful place. Though I didn’t get to Portland this trip around the Pacific Northwest, or get to meet with you, I look forward to the possibility next visit.
All the best in the New Year!
Jean
Hi, Tammy. Sorry we didn’t connect when you were in town. Like your reader above, I was also sick with a cold. Please look me up when you get settled. BTW, my site is fixed. Apparently there’s a button where you can turn off error messages. Not sure where it is, but someone else was able to find it for me. Thanks for your suggestions though. It’s good for me to learn more about these programs, always.
Safe travels to Portland!
@Alisa – no worries. I’m glad you got your site fixed! Yay!
Once we get settled in Portland, we’ll have to meet for coffee or a beer.
Really looking forward to see the video tour!
Can’t remember if I’ve mentioned this to you yet, but you’ll definitely want to check out http://portland.beerandblog.com/ once you two get settled.
@Steph – thanks! I’ll check out the Beer Blog. Sounds pretty cool.
Wow, somehow I missed that you’re moving to Portland! I’ve never been to Portland, but really need to visit before deciding to emigrate to Canada or Holland
@Dottie – if you ever visit Portland, please look us up. It would be great to meet you in person. Canada or Holland?? Those are 2 countries I’d love to live in or visit. I need to add that to my life list.
I will take into account your tips, I’m not looking for a house yet, but it’s always good to know how to look for one. Thanks Tammy!
Hi Tammie,
I’m new to your blog & absolutely luv it. You have a lot of great ideas on minimalist living. & generosity. I love & respect your bravery for moving to Portland. I visited there about 8 years ago & very much enjoyed myself. Loved the lakefront & the accessability of everything. the markets, sweet. Looking forward to the video tour when you two get settled. Thanks to the ‘rents for the extra help. Best Regards.
Thank you Carrie! It’s always nice to hear from new readers. I always wonder if folks enjoy the content or not. I really appreciate the feedback (good or bad).
Speaking of feedback, I need to get my act together and poll all the RowdyReaders about future content.
Are there any specific topics you want to learn more about?
Welcome to Portland! I just found your site. I live close by your new place. I also live in a studio. 380 sq ft. First time living in a studio and I love it!!
Thanks Jim! We aren’t officially moved in yet. We have 2 more weeks to spend in California and then we’ll be heading up to Portland. Yay for studio living.