The Pierce City Arts Festival, which is held in Monett's South Park, is an annual event that attracts hundreds of people from all over (we're talking about people coming from other states like Arkansas and Kansas) with a wine garden, pottery workshops and performances.
Sitting smack dab between the larger cities of Joplin and Springfield, what's most telling about Monett is how rarely anybody feels the need to make the trip in those directions at all. Peaceful it may be, but don't mistake this city of 9,000 for some backwater burgh. It's one of those towns still laying claim to a vibrant manufacturing sector in an era where few can. It's got gorgeous parks, bustling retail locations, dozens of recreational opportunities, and oh, steakhouses. Have the steakhouses been mentioned? Let's definitely mention the steakhouses. Whatever you do, don't forget the steakhouses.
Moving to Monett
In a century that's started out rough for so many areas, Monett's still enjoying a vigorous upswing. The population is, relatively speaking, booming and housing's going along with it. But don't think that taking advantage of the booming Monett property rentals market, with all its options, is going to get you off of doing the homework. With so many choices to make, it's even more important to get the lay of the land.
Let the Chamber Be Your Guide
With such a vibrant civic community, there's no better place to start your search for apartments than the renowned Monett Chamber of Commerce. Monett's up-and-coming; its titans of commerce aren't going to leave something as important as real estate to the anonymous search engines. Every major real estate agent in town has got the hook up here, giving you a one-stop-shop for all those sweet, sweet listings. Take advantage of the resource, and enjoy the personal touch that comes along with it.
Stay Open to the Possibilities
From one-bedroom apartments to three-bedroom houses for rent and beyond, finding your dream residence means keeping the options open. Don't get stuck in a big-city mindset and let your search for a Spartan studio blind you to the just-as-affordable luxury apartments down the street. In a market this active you never know what you'll find around the next corner, so make sure you're exploring it all before making your choice.
Prepare for Perks
When every friendly face showing you around a property is very aware that it's a renter's market, it's time for perks. From pet friendly apartments to all bills paid condos, the chances are you'll be the target of some schmoozing. It's up to you how important these perks are, but don't be afraid to ask about them if the info isn't immediately available.
Safety, Always, First
On this active, living planet, every area has its potential dangers, and Missouri's no different. If you're new to the region, it's time to acquaint yourself with tornado procedures. Folks in these parts have been dealing with the twisters for as long as there've been folks, and they take it seriously. You can feel confident that every property you view is up to code for extreme weather, but being a responsible renter means asking the questions just the same.
Make sure you know where the shelters are, where the evacuation routes sit and which areas of your home have been purposefully constructed to hold up if the winds start blowing. Those who grew up in the area have had the benefit of running tornado drills from kindergarten on up, but if you're a newly installed adult you've got to do the legwork yourself.
Neighborhoods in Monett
Folks keep things pretty informal around here, so you're not likely to find any Soho, Boho or Village talk on the streets. Still, the city is easily divided into quarters, and every quarter is packed with its own particular benefits.
Northwest Monett: This quarter is perhaps the most purely residential in the city, though you've got to suspect that the paintball park out on Highway 37 makes it a favorite of all ages citywide. Though mostly detached, single-unit homes, the quarter does have its share of condos and multi-unit dwellings. Its star attraction is Monett North Park, a 35-acre oasis of relaxation and sweat. Lots and lots of happy sweating. That's to be expected when its verdant green environs host seven baseball diamonds, four lighted tennis courts, a playground, an expansive and sheltered picnic area and its very own skate park. It is clearly much too much fun to pack into a single day, ensuring you'll be back here enjoying yourself again and again.
Northeast Monett: While also mostly residential, this quarter lays claim to East Cleveland Street and its variety of restaurants. From fast food to sit-down, the options are plenty for the many hungry residents who conveniently find themselves in the neighborhood come dinnertime.
Southeast Monett: This neighborhood can rightly be called the hub of Monett's commercial and industrial activities. With plenty of retail options lining Highway 60, hotels for visitors and even Monett's very own Racing Speedway, it's no wonder this area sees plenty of action. When new companies arrive to set up shop, this is where they tend to do it, making it a good place to start any search for local employment. Homes in the area are a healthy mix of single and multi-family residences.
Southwest Monett: Here lies the most pastoral part of town, home to fishing ponds, Windmill Ridge and Monett South Park. Even larger than its northern brother, South Park boasts 75 acres packed with hiking and equestrian trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis and basketball courts and even the city's own Olympic sized swimming pool. Rental properties in this area are guaranteed to provide plenty of open space to breathe that crisp Midwestern air.
Living in Monett
When it comes to food, Monett has plenty of options for you and your stomach. Sunrise Family Restaurant has biscuits and fried chicken to satisfy your Southern cravings. Bayou Lunchbox serves up some mean Cajun food -- be sure to try their bread pudding, too! Mocha Jo's Coffee Cafe will take care of all your coffee needs, as well as soup needs since their potato soup is all the rage.