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My husband and I are thinking of leaving Houston and moving to STT before the end of the year. I have done ALOT of reading/research and have heard the good, the bad, and the ugly. Here is our situation. We are both in our mid-20's and we just bought a home here in April (thinking about renting it out while we are gone, so we have a place to come back to plus some income) we have two certified trained Labradors and two fat cats 🙂 I am trying desperately to figure out the best scenario for us in regards to renting versus buying. I know renting is next to impossible with two large dogs, even here in Houston its difficult. But I just don't think we can buy a house there so soon after purchasing ours here (credit took a dive). So we are considering renting a place and only bringing the cats for about 3 months while we look for jobs and a place to accept our dogs. I know it is possible to rent with dogs because my sister-in-law is renting a house on Frenchman's Bay for $2,000 with two dogs, but it took alot of "getting to know people" to find that kind of deal. Our limit is definitely no more than $2,000 month (rent only) for something.
I have visited the island four times in the past year and I am well aware of the high grocery prices and WAPA. But I have had so many people tell me that their bill was $100 all the way up to $450. What is the most realistic expectation for WAPA? Another issue is finding a job. With only a few thousand dollars in savings and selling my car (gain of another couple thousand) we are worried we just wont make it by working in the hospitality industry. He is an accountant with alot of experience and shouldn't have a problem finding a position in the hotel industry and I am a licensed real estate salesperson with 4 years of experience. I have sent my resume to many real estate companies with no responses so far 🙁 Can anyone just give me some much needed advice on whether or not this move is a good one or should we just settle for Miami (that is our second option) and try STT when our finances are a little stronger. I should add that this is my DREAM and I am one to push very hard and find a way to make it work when I want something.
Also, if anyone could use my husband or I for a job opening let me know! Or if you have a house that you are willing to rent to us please contact me!!!!!!
Posted : August 5, 2015 9:00 pm
I sold my house after 11 months of owning in Michigan to come here. Renting for me was going to be too troublesome (having to hire property manager). I, personally, am glad I found a wonderful home with friends for my dog. IMO this is no place to bring a dog used to open spaces and ample running room. Finding landlords with accepting of pets isn't that difficult though after you have been here. We always ask each landlord about pets even though I'm not getting one, much to my wife's chagrin. $2000 budget is more than sufficient for 2. I have a baby and spend just over half that. You will more than likely have to be here to get a job. That is why a buffer is needed. I had a job lined up and still burned buffer money quickly. Rent in Miami, at least the nicer areas is no less expensive than here although you obviously save on food and electric, but then again it is not nearly the adventure here is. We love it here and I'm quite sure my wife would beat me if I suggested leaving.
Posted : August 5, 2015 9:13 pm
Can anyone just give me some much needed advice on whether or not this move is a good one or should we just settle for Miami (that is our second option) and try STT when our finances are a little stronger.
I think by asking the question you have a pretty good idea of the answer. In my opinion, yes to Miami.
Posted : August 5, 2015 9:26 pm
It can be done.
You have the advantage of having your sister in law on island.
Great resource.
While finding a rental that allows so many animals may be more difficult, it's not impossible but finding a rental with a fenced yard for dogs may be more problematic. There is an incredible amount of roaming animals, cats and dogs, both.
Be prepared to pay a pet deposit in addition to first, last and security deposit.
You might consider shipping your car as buying one here may be more expensive. You will absolutely need a car here. Depending where you both find jobs, you may need 2 cars.
I say "go for it." You're young, adaptable.
If you don't like it, you can always head to Miami after a year.
Posted : August 5, 2015 9:54 pm
Hey I am from Houston too well bayou vista/ Galveston area.. We are moving back to stt in December.. Here is my email address
Walkerheatherd@gmail.com when do u plan on moving? Which part of Houston u from??
Heather
Posted : August 6, 2015 3:05 pm
Topic starter
I grew up in the Galveston area but currently live in Pearland.
I think we have decided to move in mid-January to February. Our house situation is mostly settled. Now I am just hoping that we don't move there and have a tough time finding jobs to support ourselves.
Posted : August 6, 2015 6:32 pm
You will probably have better luck finding a rental that will take the animals if it is unfurnished. So, you'll need to budget for furniture, as well. I have apartments, and have always accepted pets, but I'm about ready to stop. I have to replace furniture all the time after a pet tenant leaves.
Posted : August 6, 2015 8:21 pm
You will probably have better luck finding a rental that will take the animals if it is unfurnished. So, you'll need to budget for furniture, as well. I have apartments, and have always accepted pets, but I'm about ready to stop. I have to replace furniture all the time after a pet tenant leaves.
I did stop for that reason. I'll accept pets but tenant provides their own furniture.
Posted : August 7, 2015 12:34 am
You will probably have better luck finding a rental that will take the animals if it is unfurnished. So, you'll need to budget for furniture, as well. I have apartments, and have always accepted pets, but I'm about ready to stop. I have to replace furniture all the time after a pet tenant leaves.
I did stop for that reason. I'll accept pets but tenant provides their own furniture.
Same here -- I rent unfurnished and have always accepted most pets - I don't think a big dog would work at my apt. and No squawking birds allowed.
Posted : August 7, 2015 1:34 am
So glad my pup doesn't tear up or eat furniture anymore... Don't miss those days!!! I will be down December 12th if anyone has any housing openings??!! Thanks! So glad to be coming back!!!
Posted : August 7, 2015 4:15 am
My question would be to you as to what is wrong with staying in Houston, WHERE YOU JUST BOUGHT A HOUSE, sorry for the caps, but come on. People that buy a house (usually make the purchase to live in and not just as extra income). So either your running from something or you all of a sudden have itchy feet. Problems don't disappear in the tropics, they magnify. OK, off my soap box now.
But to answer your questions, to find a place for (4) animals will be a tough nut, but can be done if you are willing to search and spend enough money and aren't to picky where you want to live. No, as far as Miami goes, if you have family here, which it sounds like you do, then I say go all in and make the move to the VI. Please keep this in mind while making you final decision, most of the couples that I know of that came to the Islands whether it be boyfriends/girlfriend or husband and wife came together but left separately. Temptations are many and great. It takes a strong constitution to make it in the tropics even more so than else where. This should be both of your dreams not just one sided. Good luck with your decision.
This is just my opinion, like it or not.
mike
Posted : August 7, 2015 10:37 am
