You once lay with me under a blanket of sun / and held me in your hands. The texture of my / fine debris slipping through the crevices of / your fingers and toes. / You built me a kingdom by the seashore: / castles with towers for guards to keep watch / and dried up moats surrounding the landscape / of a desert... -Palmetto Bay Sand, by Sarah Johnson
Palmetto Bay is a beautiful, tranquil place, away from the mayhem of Miami Beach, but still close enough for a quick visit if things get too quiet to your liking. This Miami incorporated village in Florida has a population of about 24,469 according to the 2000 census. The weather is just as lovely as the place itself, with an average temperature of about 76 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. If you were dreaming of a white Christmas in Palmetto Bay, dream on. In your search for places to rent, be on the lookout for abodes that already have air-conditioning, or at least roof fans installed -- you will need it.
Moving to Palmetto Bay
Availability and Costs
Finding a one-bedroom apartment in Palmetto Bay will not prove easy, and if you do find one, it will be nothing like the city apartments in Miami Beach. This area consists mostly of two- and three-bedroom homes, but property rentals are fairly abundant, so you might just get lucky. If the thought of more space appeals to you, consider house sharing and splitting the rent. Keep in mind that rental prices in Palmetto Bay are fairly high because it is situated so close to the beach. Apartments are still cheaper than in other parts of Miami, and the peace and quiet is a huge benefit.
Search in the Cooler Months
Going on an apartment hunt in Palmetto Bay in the heat of summer is not a good idea. Being drenched with sweat from strutting from one apartment to the next in the heat is no fun and also not a very good first impression when meeting up with a new landlord. Stick to the cooler months instead.
Check for Critters
The warm weather of Palmetto Bay is not only enjoyed by people, but animals, especially lizards and roaches, also thrive in this climate. Be sure to check that there is no cockroach infestation in the property rentals you view before signing a lease.
Signing the Lease
As soon as you have managed to find an apartment that is up to your standards, it is not only a question of signing the lease. The landlord will need to determine if you are up to his standards, which means that you will be required to provide the needed information and documents. Have your proof of income and social security number ready as he will need this to perform a check on your credit history.
The Move
The most best time to move to Palmetto Bay is during spring or late fall. If possible, try to avoid the beginning or end of the month as this is usually the busiest time for movers, meaning the higher rates. If you are more flexible with your time, you may benefit from discounts. During the summer, you will need to book at least a month in advance with the most reputable movers. In spring, winter and fall, they need about two-weeks notice.
Palmetto Bay Neighborhoods
Find the Palmetto Bay neighborhood that tickles your fancy from the list below.
Deering Bay / Kings Bay: This coastal neighborhood is home to the prestigious Deering Bay Yacht and Country Club. Residents are within walking distance of a stunning golf course nestled in the bay, as well as tennis and fitness facilities. For those who have worked up an appetite, the clubhouse offers tasty meals. Rentals in this neighborhood are fairly expensive, probably because of their close proximity to the marina.
Village Center: This is where you should head to if you want to fill up your car's gas tank or if you have cravings for a cup of Starbucks coffee. The Deering Estate is also situated here, a jewel of a place where you will get a true glimpse into Miami's past. There are many interesting things to explore here, including archaeological proof of the former habitation of Tequesta and Paleo-Indians and stately historic buildings dating from as early as 1896. The estate spans over 450 acres with beautiful views over shimmering waters of the Biscayne Bay.
83rd Avenue to 160th Street: In this area, you will find all kinds of professional services in Palmetto Bay. In need of a plumber, a lawyer, architect or photographer? Kleber Plumbing, Zargham & Sinclair, Pober Yespelkis & Associates or Newborn Photo Art at your service. On your way back home, you can grab a refreshing ice cream at Gelateria Parmalat.
Rockdale: This is the area in Palmetto Bay where shopaholics will get their fix. You can get your groceries from Kings Bay shopping center or browse the interesting shops at the Colonial Palms Plaza.
East Perrine: This is a very popular suburban neighborhood, with only 3% of the properties available for rent at any given time. After a long day, residents can unwind in the Bill Sadowski Park. The park also offers great weekend activities such as a nature trail and canoeing. There is a live animal exhibit, with an 822-gallon aquarium that is a hotspot for local star-gazers with free lectures and stargazing programs offered by the Southern Cross Astronomical Society.
Peters: Here you can sign up for martial arts training, upgrade your wheels or hire a contractor. The South Dade Shopping Centre also offers plenty of shopping opportunities.
Living in Palmetto Bay
Palmetto Bay has everything that one may desire: beaches, beautiful scenery, friendly people and plenty of recreation. It is a short commute from other places in Miami and well worth it if you prefer peace and quiet. Now, go find that apartment and get settled!
