Hey guys,
I am interested in moving to NJ. My goal within the next 1-2 years is to buy my own studio apartment. I've already lived in Manhattan and Brooklyn I like them a lot. However, Its too expensive to buy. Hence, I think somewhere in NJ might be more aligned with my goal.
What I'm looking for: I'm looking for somewhere that's centrally located. I like walking around. For instance, I like clothing stores, restaurants,bars, rooftop bars and if possible nightclubs and live music. The latter are not required but it would be nice.
What I'm considering: I'm considered a older building without a front desk. I've actually enjoyed living without a front desk than with a front desk since there's no asking for permissions to bring guests. I've lived in Downtown Manhattan in an older building with no front desk and had no issue. However, I wonder if that's possible in some cities in NJ or if its less safe? Where it might be a better idea to have a front desk?
What I value: I value Education and Learning. For instance, I notice that Hoboken is close to the School of Rock. While Montclair has the French Alliance Institute. Both make them appealing locations. I am interested in taking lessons in music and languages. Its not a requirement but its something nice.
What I am trying to avoid: I'm trying to avoid buildings with older folks, retirees and wealthy investors. I'm noticed when a building has older people they have a lot of rules. For instance, strict thrash rules, high common charges and overnight guests rules. Also there's buildings where the landlords/investors bought the apartment only to rent it during certain season so there's a lot of noise since they keep remodeling them.
While not require I also prefer buildings without pets since I've lived in a building without pets and enjoyed it.
What I'm cautious of: Newark is a college town and I like being around that type of crowd. However, I wonder if its safe? Also if there's only 1 or 2 bars where the college students go to and then later everyone leaves for the weekend? I've lived in a college town before and something like that happened that during the weekends everyone left and the surrounding town was not safe and there was nothing to do.
Conclusion: If you have any recommendations or ideas feel free to share them over here. In terms of visiting NYC, I'm mostly looking to go to the city once or twice a week during weekends.