I am comparing this condo to other similar condos and apartments. Based on the evaluation, the buyer is better renting and saving the difference.

And by the way, I’ve seen multi-level condos in Alhambra and near Arcadia that have HOA fees of $50-75 versus the $260 that we see here.

But you are right, some people do prefer condos because it is lower maintenance.

Not everyone perfers single family homes. Too many things to take care of.

Condos make you pay HOA but it covers the insurance and yardwork.

Basically, condos and single family homes are like apples and oranges. THEY ARE NOT THE SAME and THEY ATTRACT DIFFERENT BUYERS.

the people on this blog is so one-sided.

George 8,
Parts of Pasadena are really nice, parts are iffy, and some parts (NW Pasadena) you should stay away from till you’ve lived here bit and get to know the neighborhood. I live in the SE corner of Pasadena and I like it but I’m used to some of the grittier aspects of urban living.

In fact I’d like to share a listing that makes my husband and I laugh hysterically every time we walk by.
http://www.redfin.com/CA/Pasadena/26-S-Sunnyslope-Ave-91107/home/12111385 “Huge reduction $331/sq ft” This is one of three condos stuffed like a tetris game on a tiny lot. Walled patios so small I don’t think a single folding chair would fit. And nice HOA fees too.

– The google map is a little off, head north a bit till you hit the alley. Check out the KFC across the street very convenient. I do commend the Pasadena cops for lately chasing the working girls back towards Rosemead. I won’t even mention the sketchy hotels on Colorado.

IF you are ever at the Acapulco or Fu-Shing restaurants on Colorado check it out.

.. though when I think about it you could get loaded on margaritas and stumble the 10 yards to your door. is it worth it?

The $1,500/month figure is applicable to other similar apartment and condos running along Huntington Dr. As expected, most of these are older properties with the typical traits of dense apartment living: high traffic streets, parking space limitations and a big downgrade if you’ve ever lived in a single family home.

If you want something better, then $1,800 - 2,200 will get you a newer town home or condo in a slightly better area:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/search/apa?query=arcadia&srchType=T&minAsk=1800&maxAsk=2200&bedrooms=2

I’m not entirely familiar with Pasadena so perhaps one of our readers can help you out with that.

George 8,

If you can, I would suggest spending some time in the different neighborhoods in Arcadia and Pasadena and then decide where you want to live. There’s definitely differences between the cities and within each city. Maybe just get a monthly rental until you decide. Check out Craigslist, tons of rentals on the market.

>>Average cost to rent a 2/2 apartment in Arcadia: $1,500/month.<<

Since I am out of the state with interest of moving in. I wonder if you could suggest some 2/2 condo or apt rental in decent Arcadia or Pasadena locations?

Thanks,
George