Help! How the heck do you find a place to live in SM? Moving 2/1, sifting a lot of scammy stuff

Seth P.

@ALUST4LIFEWailea, Hawaii, United States

Help! How the heck do you find a place to live in SM? Moving 2/1, sifting a lot of scammy stuff

Hi CSers - It feels like a full time job scouring westside rentals, multiple fb groups, emailing friends near SM, now posting here. I was traveling Hawaii the past 6 months, now moving from Boulder to SM. I want to get a temp place for 2-3 months so I can have a "soft landing" and find the best area for me & my business (help kids who struggle with aspergers, adhd, dyslexia, etc..) My search has been exhausting. I don't need a "cheap" room, but it's been remarkably hard to find places that don't feel scammy. Thoughts?

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Danielle A.

@DANIELLE.ALVISSimi Valley, California, United States

You can try Airbnb for renting for a few months or craigslist.

Anna D.

@ANYUTALos Angeles, California, United States

it's because Santa Monica is one of the most coveted neighborhoods in LA and the rent is either super expensive or super affordable for those lucky ones who live in rent-controlled buildings. The latters never give up their places even when they move away for a long time. They sublease. The key is to find those but it's not easy. Craigs and FB can be hit or miss. Airbnb/VRBO/FlipKey could be a safer though not cheaper option. The good news is that I think the short term rental in SM is only legal if it is at least for 3 months so long term rentals should be available. I also know of HomeSuit, I believe they are also in the business of long short term (from 30 days up). Good luck.

Suzanne R.

@GOLFINGSUZANNELos Angeles, California, United States

Anna knows what she's talking about. I have two tenants in Venice who sublet. Unfortunately, not now but they advertise on Westside Rentals. the secret to WR is to check often and respond immediately. When I have a vacancy, I have at least three suitable tenants within a half an hour. The closer to the freeways, the cheaper the rent. You might try near the 405.