Blacklick Estates is less than 20 minutes away from downtown Columbus, and life here is life within the one of the greatest regions in Ohio. "So if you, if you see me hunkered down in your town/ I'm just watchin' the clock on the wall/ 'Til I can go to the place I love most of all {...}/ Whoa-oh-whoa-oh-whoa-oh-whoa-oh whoa-Ohio! Hiyo!" (The Black Keys, Ohio)
Do you feel that in the air? Blacklick Estates, home to 8,682 people, is located on a road outside Columbus. Defined by easy Midwest living and proximity to one of Ohio's best cities, Blacklick Estates is more than some town in Franklin County that makes you want to sing along to O.A.R songs. You've got Columbus in your backyard, but when you want to stay home, you can skip stones in nearby waterways, eat ice cream at local stands, and drink at local watering holes. On top of that, this census-designated spot features some cozy pads, which comes in handy. You're going to need your rest after playing in this happening region.
Moving to Blacklick Estates
The way things work in Blacklick Estates is a little different than other areas around Columbus. Before you embark on your fabulous journey of finding a home for rent here, take some time to learn a few things. Knowing the trends, best times to look, and what you need to prepare will make the process much smoother. So turn down that music, and get to it!
Market Info for Renters
29.4% of homes are renter-occupied, which is slightly lower than Ohio's average. Detached houses, which account for 89.0% of units, are your most available option for rental properties here. This info should not be bad news. The market, while not renter-dominated, still is friendly enough to renters. Additionally, Blacklick Estates typically has a good deal of availabilities. If you only want a 1 bedroom apartment, don't think all you have is houses. That other 11% of units are mostly apartments, and you'll have no trouble getting something.
The Best Searching Times
It's advised to locate a few places you like several weeks before you arrive, and then contact the landlord, realtor, or management company. In general, it doesn't matter when you arrive, and the whole process should not take much longer than three to four weeks (from initial research to closing). There are plenty of available places to live in Blacklick Estates, but you'll find the most from early spring to mid-summer.
A Note about Flooding
Only pay attention to this if you are renting a house with a basement or getting an apartment that's below ground. Some places do flood in town during heavy storms. In addition to doing a general inspection for obvious issues, inquire about whether or not the property leaks. Waking up and stepping in a pool of rainwater is not how most people want to start their day. Regardless of whether you get a basement level studio apartment or three bedroom house, check for this.
Some Other Helpful Tips
If you are having trouble finding a suitable spot to rent, search in apartment communities that specifically lease. Also, if you live in the area already, consider driving around town and looking for signs advertising a place for rent. A lot of landlords and management companies in Blacklick Estates advertise with signs and word-of-mouth; also, this gives you the chance to see a place first-hand. Lastly, be flexible on what type of pad you rent, and look in every area.
Before You Can Chill...
You must provide one or two month's rent, give evidence paying rent will be as easy as pie, and provide a security deposit. Most landlords run a credit check, and some may want to see your rental history. Bring your personal information (like ID, social security number, etc). If you rent at a complex, know there is an application process for most and fees.
Blacklick Estates Neighborhoods and Top Apartment Communities
Within the town's 2.0 square miles, there are an array of places to live. Do you want to be king of your own castle in a house within a subdivision? Or do you want to be the cool person in the loft at a nifty complex? Other things, like transit, location, and available homes, are worth considering when you choose a neighborhood in Blacklick Estates.
Major 'Hoods
Community Center: Mostly houses and a few apartments, this mainly car-dependent part of town is close to several bus lines as well as a few eateries and convenience stores. You can walk for some things.
Noe-Bixby: Closer to downtown Columbus than other areas, this neighborhood is slightly more walkable than Community Center and is where you'll find the most available housing, both in terms of variety and quantity. Nafzger Park, some restaurants, and a few bars highlight the area. There are numerous bus stops within walking distance.
Asbury: The most car-dependent part of town, this area is mostly subdivisions and houses. It is close to Interstate-270 and some bus lines.
Top Apartment Communities
Cross Key Row: In the Noe-Bixby area, this complex features affordable one and two bedroom flats. Its location and updated appliances make it a great overall choice.
Olde Cape Colony Apartments: You won't be wowed, but you'll sleep well at this complex near the center of town. Tucked away from the action but still within range of it, this community features ground level apartments.
Living in Blacklick Estates
In terms of transit, a car is advised as this will save you time. However, cycling is possible because the terrain is flat. Walking is only possible for some things. Taking the bus is another viable option, but a bit time consuming. Overall, a vehicle is the way to go.
The thought of life in Blacklick Estates may have you licking your lips, and so it should. This is a great spot to take on life in Columbus. Whenever you please, you can head to Ohio Stadium for a Buckeyes football game, watch a show at the Ohio Theatre, or tour the Columbus Museum of Art. Life in Blacklick Estates offers enough if you want to stay close to your pad. If locals get thirsty, spots like Stooges and Donerick's Pub satisfy. When they're hungry, establishments like My Big Fat Gyros and Padova's Pizza spoil the appetite. When residents want to soak in fresh air, bumming around at Noe-Bixby Park and walking along Blacklick Creek suffice. Do you feel that ease in the air? Blacklick Estates doesn't push or pull you in any way; it just waits to serve you.