The city of Cordele is also referred to as the "Watermelon Capital of the World" on account of its huge watermelon harvest during the summer months. There's even a hotel there which is, rather appropriately and rather quaintly, named Hotel Melon.
Cordele City is located in Crisp County, Georgia. From the 2010 census, the population was estimated to be just over 11,000. The city is located on Interstate 75, about; 100 miles northerly of the Florida state line and 140 miles south of Atlanta. Folks who reside in Cordele come out to play throughout the month of June, when the watermelon festival gets underway. It's really the place to be, as the atmosphere is vibrant and the aroma of fresh watermelon fuses the air. If you're looking to relocate to some place that offers beautiful views, you'll get that in Cordele. The city is located right on the banks of Lake Blackshear, which means you'll always have an outdoor getaway.
Moving to Cordele
Prior to undertaking a search for housing for rent in Cordele, it's good policy to have a little understanding in respect to the area. The good news is that it's not particularly costly to reside here. The cost of living in Cordele is in fact less than that of the state as a whole, and also the country. Many of the housing units are fairly mature, although, as you'd expect, there has been quite a bit of recent building work. Additionally, the city offers more than its fair share of larger-sized rentals with exclusive views, so if you want it big and you want it beautiful, there are few better places to be found!
When to Look
Really, looking for housing in Cordele can be conducted at any time of the year, although Monday through Friday is when you're more likely to find that the realtors and landlords are willing to meet you. The general rule might be to give yourself about four weeks to find a place, and allowing for less time may prove to be a little stressful since availability is never exactly sky-high.
The Contract
Prior to signing on the dotted line, do be sure that you have a couple months' rent available - one month rent in advance, and one month to set down as the deposit. The landlord may ask for more than that as the deposit, but on the other hand, some landlords don't ask for anything. Further, you need to prove that you can indeed pay up each month, so proof of employment and income is a necessity. And, it's a good idea to bring some form of summary of your rental history. Some owners and realtors will perform a credit check, but others couldn't care less, as long as they get paid.
Cordele Neighborhoods
The city covers 9.6 square miles, and as such, offers a nicely eclectic housing style. You can choose to live close to the center of the city, or if you prefer, just on the outskirts where it's quiet and "away from it all." Plus, there's housing available that affords terrific views out over Lake Blackshear. There's also an historic area within the town, so if you've a preference for old-world style with amenities on your doorstep, this is probably the location for you.
Scenic Route: If you're looking for a pretty part of the town, then you've found it in the Scenic Route. There are a few houses and apartments homes for rent in the area, affording beautiful views over Lake Blackshear.
Cedar Point Circle: Again, with views over Lake Blackshear, you can't go wrong if you are searching for property rentals with a countryside feel, but still very close to the center of town. Nearby you'll have Cross Country BBQ and Sheila's Restaurant.
Central Avenue: This area is just seconds from Interstate 75, Central Ave. is perfectly located for folks who wish to commute. There's a plethora of restaurants nearby too, including TJ's Italian-American Restaurant on E 16th Ave. and the quaintly named Cracker Barrel Old Country Store on Central Ave. which serves traditional American fare.
S. 4th Street: Offering a couple of schools close by and three restaurants within easy walking distance -- a Carter's Fried Chicken on S. 7th St., Ken's Barbeque on W. 24th Ave., and El Girasol Mexican on E. 14th Ave., S. 4th St. is a good part of town to look for city apartments.
Living in Cordele
The car is the name of the game for those who wish to reside in Cordele since public transport is next to nonexistent. Nevertheless, the city is served by many roadways, including Interstate 75, U.S. Route 41, U.S. Route 280 and State Route 33.
The annual temperature ranges are fairly extensive but never really too cold. The average winter low in January is around 38 degrees, while the average summer high in July is around 93 degrees.
Georgia Veterans State Park on U.S. Highway 280 West provides plenty of beautiful open space for the locals. Here you'll find terrific views over Lake Blackshear. There are a number of activities available too, such as golf, walking trails, camping, swimming and boating. Oh, and it's to be noted that the toilets are nice and clean, so there's no need to go behind a tree to relieve yourself.
Lake Blackshear Resort Golf Club, which is in close proximity to Georgia Veterans State Park, is of course the place to go for the avid golfers in town. The resort also hosts a full service restaurant, which will come as good news to those who are feeling a bit pooped after completing the 18 holes.
Speedway fans can have their cake and eat it, too. Located on Farmers Market Rd., the Watermelon Speedway affords regular entertainment for folks who enjoy watching motorbikes go round, and round, and round‰Û_
The Daphne Lodge on Highway 280, has an excellent rep for their delicious cuisines, and the menu mostly comprised of seafood. The d̩cor and atmosphere are said to be as good as the food. One word of warning however, it's a reservations only establishment, so best not drive for miles and expect to be served when you don't have a reservation in place.