Winslow is home to the oldest blockhouse fort in the United States. Fort Halifax is a colonial outpost built in 1754, which now serves as a National Historical Landmark.
Many of the most charming features of Maine, such as unique downtown districts, apple orchards spread along rolling hills and picturesque bridges spanning across roiling rivers, are all present in Winslow
Winslow is home to the oldest blockhouse fort in the United States. Fort Halifax is a colonial outpost built in 1754, which now serves as a National Historical Landmark.
Many of the most charming features of Maine, such as unique downtown districts, apple orchards spread along rolling hills and picturesque bridges spanning across roiling rivers, are all present in Winslow. It is one of the those places where you can get fresh vegetables, cider and eggs at the local farmers' market, spend the rest of the day kayaking or at a picnic, and then retire home to watch the sunset on another beautiful Maine day. It's also not unusual to see a smiling neighbor waving at you or a moose walking through your backyard, giving Winslow a bit of a wild but friendly feel. This guide will provide some tips to find the best possible rental properties in Winslow and hopefully make your move go a lot smoother.
Where to Live
Compared to the rest of the country, you'll find cheaper and more moderately priced rental homes in Winslow. Winslow has many places for rent, including split-levels, Victorian homes and new developments. Closer to the Kennebec River, it's common to find more studios or two-bedroom apartments for rent, providing a closer connection to the main business district and roads leading out of Winslow.
How to Get There
Winslow is not exactly remote, but it's also not near the more heavily populated coastal areas of Maine. As a result, you should check with a few moving companies about their availability and rates for moving to Winslow. It's also possible to move yourself, but if you're going to be on the top floor, you should think about getting some help.
Insider Tips for Winslow
Although there are pet-friendly apartments in Winslow, you may also be required to sign a separate contract for your pet and pay extra fees. Month-to-month apartments are rare in Winslow, but sometimes you can find furnished rentals, with a refrigerator and other appliances included. Winslow is generally a renter's market, meaning that it's not a bad idea to try to haggle with a landlord for a cheaper apartment price. If you have good credit and a decent income coming in, that should give you some leverage during your negotiations.
What Documents You Should Bring
Like a lot of other places in America, landlords and brokers in Winslow often require a copy of your driver's license, proof of your income and previous landlord references. Usually you will only be required to put down a small deposit. Just don't leave the door open and the peanut butter out. One of the many black bears in Maine might make its way into your home, make itself a little too comfortable and leave you holding the bill. Don't be worried, though -- black bears are usually shy and present very little danger to humans.
Even though Winslow is relatively small, with only 7,794 people in only two neighborhoods, the town is still big on charm. With plenty of historic sites and the Acadia National Park nearby, Winslow is an excellent place for nature lovers. Winslow shares its downtown district with the town of Waterville, which is literally right across the river. There, you can find great local spots, including the Children's Book Cellar and Barrels Community Market.
Winslow Town Center: The town center also happens to be the priciest neighborhood in Winslow. Here, you can find plenty of classic American homes, many with a screened-in porch perfect for sipping an iced tea on a hot summer day. Pick up a pizza pie at It's a Good Pizza when you can't bring yourself to cook.
East Winslow / Lamb's Corner: Pattee Pond makes up the focal point of this neighborhood of medium to large single-family homes. There are fewer people here, giving this area a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere. The vacancy rate is also a bit higher than Winslow Town Center, meaning that renters are more likely to find a cheaper deal in this area.
Many residents have short commutes, lasting no more than 15 minutes, leading Winslow to have one of the shorter commute times in the U.S. While nearly all residents have a vehicle for transportation, Winslow also has a walk score of 68, which means the town is pretty decent for getting around without a car. Despite the walkability of Winslow, if you have a job outside of town or plan to travel around Maine, a car is a must-have.
Winslow may be in one of the least populated states in America, but this community is big on life. The nice thing about Winslow is it still features a classic American downtown district, which helps foster tighter communities and more family-owned businesses. There, you can enjoy fresh Maine lobster at the Lobster Trap and Steakhouse or grab a delicious craft brew at Mainely Brews Restaurant and Brewhouse. If you spend long enough in Winslow and enjoy nature, you're almost guaranteed to fall in love with your new home.
