I always look with curiosity at that complex (Littlefield Quarters) on sixth right across from the Driskill and wonder if it is a decent place to live. Anyone here know anything about it or any other place you can rent out in downtown? Post West looks kinda nice.
I lived in Littlefield Quarters for five months during the legislative session. I'll say this ... the place is convenient as hell. It was a five-block walk to the Capitol, a five-block jog to the Town Lake running trail and an easy stumble home after a night of drinking.
That said ... the interiors are very apartment-like. It's not really cool like a loft, although the balconies overlooking Brazos are kind of cool. But the typical ****** white carpet, white walls and white ceiling are very apartment-ish. The fixtures aren't particularly special.
The main problem I had with it is the noise. Buses seem to rumble up Brazos at all hours of the night, and they idle down there for what seems like a long time. Another noise problem is several blues clubs that leave their doors open. It is loud four or five nights a week until 2 a.m. I eventually managed to learn to sleep through it, but it was no walk in the park.
Well, it at least sounds like it isn't a ****hole. If I lived their, I would have to find a roommate to afford it. But, with a roommate, it is very affordable. They said it was about $1300 for a room large enough for two people. I'd say the noise is to be expected at that location. Anybody know about any other places downtown?
Whoat,
There are lots of new apartments open in downtown Austin in addition to some old ones. I dont know the names of all, but maybe you can get started with the following:
Brazos lofts
Railyard
Poleyard
5th Street lofts (I think)
and there are others, but I am drawing a blank. Good luck!
Yeah, those are some nice looking places. BUT, I should have specified that I need a place that leases, not just sells units. Brazos and Railyard for sure are for sale only. Which sucks because they both look sharp. Thanks anyway.
I live in LIttlefield Quarters now but am moving to the Plaza Lofts in a few weeks. I like LIttlefield a lot and the view from the upper floor balconies is really nice. Personally I think 2 people is a little much but many of my neighbors seem to do it ok. The unit next to mine has been available for a few months. There are 3 floor plans, the corner units are really big but expensive. The 2 smaller ones are similar but one of them has a full balcony and more windows in the living room.
The downtown austin neighborhood association maintains a list of places to live downtown at: The Link
Also, don't disregard the places that are sale-only. Many owners at the Railyard rent out the units. Some of them are as small as 600 sq ft and sell for less than $100k so they should rent for less than a $1000/mo I'd guess.
The management at Littlefield is good and they are easy to work with. Jessica would be glad to show you the available units and her number is 370-1910. Tell her I said hello.
Finally, I have a few pictures of my place at Littlefield (and my new place being built) at: The Link
Thanks for the info and pics rayfes. I definetly envy you and that new Plaza Lofts place. Basically, Littlefield would be fine as long as 1) There aren't pest control problems and 2) I find someone who will go in on a place with me splitting the rent. Railyard and Plaza Lofts do look pimp, though.
Rayfes: I lived next to you at Littlefield Quarters -- you stopped by and introduced yourself once. (I'm back in Houston now). In any case, didn't you find the buses rumbling up Brazos at all hours to be somewhat bothersome?
Whoat22: I haven't ever had any real pest control problems but I never eat at home either so that probably helps. They do send in a pest guy ever couple of months.
I believe: I notice the buses but it doesn't really bother me. I think they stop running at 11pm though. Also, they are slowly making changes to the bus schedule and having fewer huge route convergence areas like the Brazos / 6th bus stop. That being said I'd be happier if that bus stop wasn't there of course.
Do y'all have any info about the State House on Congress. It is right across the street from the Austin Motel and is next to the Alexan complex. I am thinking of moving there because of its location, nice looking apartments, and reduced rents. I would appreciate any positive or negative info about the place.
Y'all let me know if you still need info on any of these places. I work with all of them. Austin, for a city of its size, is SEVERELY limited on downtown living, and lack of supply makes units down there incredibly expensive for what you actually get.
August is too far away to know anything about pricing. Many in RE are saying this downturn will only last about six more months, which is bad for renters, but I have my doubts abut so quick a turnaround.
I will tell you this: unless you absolutely have to be downtown or just have so much money you don't care, you will get so much more for your $ if you are willing to go to the northwest part of town. Better apartments, more choices, and probably upwards of 4-500 bucks savings a month!
I have looked into the Northwest area. There are certainly some nice places there in a pretty part of Austin. I can tell you that I am the type of person that likes to be "where the action is". But I may be too poor to really think about downtown. Maybe Gables on Mopac would be a good happy medium.
I could probably find you a duplex, condo, etc. in the Enfield area for a decent price, but you'll want to have a roommate to get more for your money. Easy access to campus and to 4th and 6th. If you go SW, Eanes ISD makes prices jump considerably. There are some older places around Barton Springs, Zilker, etc. that are less expensive, and some are well kept and clean. They just don't have the bells and whistles like movie theater, pool table, computer center, dry cleaning valet, etc. etc. that you get from the newer properties!
Brazos Lofts are indeed for sale only. I had a girlfriend who lived in one for a while and it was pretty cool. Easy walk from 4th and 6th streets. Expensive as hell, though.
I live in the Littlefield Quarters right now and love it. Been here since August and have no complaints. When we were looking for a place to live in the summer we called the number here mainly as a joke, but it ended up being cheaper than anything close to campus. And I've never had a problem with noise. If you aren't in the room next to the brazos-side windows (which you wouldn't be if you were sleeping) you can't hear the buses. It's convenient for a student too. Short busride to campus and you get a parking spot in the garage, which is VERY convenient. We've got cool neighbors and the convenience store downstairs is also very nice. And ditto on the property managers. Call them up, they are MORE than helpful with any questions you may have. Larry and Jessica are both very very cool people. Easily the best property managers I've ever dealt with. As far as nightlife goes, well it just doesn't get any better in my eyes. You just have to stand on the balcony for 2 mins at closing time to see something great. Can't tell you how many fights and just all-out drunken craziness you will witness. I'm pretty sure we've got enough video footage to release an "Austin Gone Wild". Anyways, I recommend the place for sure. Let me know if you've got any other questions.