A national historic landmark, the Dutch Hollow Wine Cellars in Dunbar were constructed around 1860 and have a glorious history. There are claims to it being haunted, but you'll only know if you go.
Welcome to Dunbar, home of haunted wine cellars and nice parks! Since the city of 7,907 people is in West Virginia, you have every right to sing that epic John Denver song each morning
A national historic landmark, the Dutch Hollow Wine Cellars in Dunbar were constructed around 1860 and have a glorious history. There are claims to it being haunted, but you'll only know if you go.
Welcome to Dunbar, home of haunted wine cellars and nice parks! Since the city of 7,907 people is in West Virginia, you have every right to sing that epic John Denver song each morning. How could you not? Very close to Charleston, the state's capital, Dunbar offers the perfect mix of small town living with big city amenities. A solid restaurant and bar scene also adds to the good aspects of living here. Sure, it doesn't give off an unforgettable first impression, but Dunbar will grow on you. All you have to do is let it. Again, welcome to Dunbar, a grand spot in the Kanawha Valley. It's a place that will charm you until you have no choice but to love it!
There are some things to realize first about finding rental homes in Dunbar. However, you shouldn't have too difficult of a time. The important thing to be aware of is that landing a pad is easy, but landing the ideal pad for your lifestyle can be a bit tricky. So read closely, and come ready to house hunt.
How's the Market for Renters?
33.8% of Dunbar's properties are renter-occupied, which exceeds West Virginia's average. Additionally, a consistent and fair amount of openings ensure you can nab a nest within 15 days, regardless of when you move to Dunbar. As a renter here, you can spend less time worrying about locating a living spot, and more time playing the fiddle, or whatever else you do when you're not worrying.
When Do Renters Have the Most Selection?
Five schools serve the Dunbar area, and this plays the biggest role in moving times. If you want to come at a time when there are more pads listed for lease, come in the summer, when the school bells ring no more and more people are moving between homes. In general, though, anytime works, so don't rearrange your personal schedule if it's too troublesome. Arrive when you so desire.
What Kind of Homes Are There?
Offering more selection than your local buffet restaurant, real estate in Dunbar includes everything from mobile homes and houses to apartment and condo rentals. Detached houses make up 75.9% of units, but you can have whatever you want. Look in apartment complexes, mobile home parks, or streets lined with houses for what you need.
How Old Are the Homes?
17.7% of units were built before the 1940's. Overall, 60.6% were built before 1960. If you happen to rent an older property, don't rent one that's described as needing work. While most of these older properties in Dunbar still look and run fine, some don't. Prior to signing that contract, look through the home with the landlord to ensure the property has no major kinks.
What's Needed for the Contract?
Personal information, like your ID and social security number, is needed. Be ready to have your credit score checked. Most landlords and management companies request one or two months' rent. In case you crack a window playing Wiffle ball, a deposit is requested. If you get a condo for rent within a managed community, you'll need to apply first, but the process isn't too time-consuming.
The city covers 2.81 square miles. Despite its size, various sections of Dunbar bring different things to the table. Do you want to live by Kanawha River? Do you want live near a park? Do you want proximity to the highway? Answer questions like these and your neighborhood choice will be a breeze.
Major 'Hoods
City Center: Situated around Dunbar Avenue, this neighborhood is rather walkable as some restaurants, stores, and bars are close. A major grocery store is here too. If you want to get outside the neighborhood, vehicle transport is necessary. Close to the Kanawha River, this area has lots of apartments and houses.
Institute: This car-dependent area to the west of City Center features Shawnee Regional Park, proximity to Interstate-64, and some stores along Fairlawn Avenue. West Virginia State University is located here.
Charles Avenue/Dunbar Avenue: The neighborhood where these two roads run parallel to each other is mostly residential, but close enough to the action of City Center.
Roxalana: In the east and northeast part of town, this area near City Park also offers easy access to Charleston. Get a tattoo, throw sticks in Aarons Creek, and dine at Cold Spot. Roxalana is the most spacious and most expensive part of Dunbar. It's car-dependent.
Top Apartment Communities
Roxalana Hills Apartments: If you are looking for furnished apartments in Dunbar, you need not look any longer. These one and 2 bedroom apartments for rent are on a property that features a racquetball court, pool, and sand volleyball.
Grandview Pointe Apartments: Kitchens come fully furnished and you get a patio or a deck. This complex does not feature tons of amenities, but is affordable and provides the needed comforts. Its location, near I-64 and City Park, is also superb.
Oaks Apartments: Also in the Roxalana area, the Oaks Apartments property features one and two bedroom pads. Some come with a den. Plenty of parking, a friendly pet policy, and fireplaces in some homes are other noteworthy highlights.
Overall, Dunbar is somewhat walkable within its town limits. However, it's difficult to get by without a car, unless you a pro cyclist or long distance runner. A vehicle is useful if you want to go to Charleston and see the West Virginia State Capitol, catch a performance at the Clay Center, or watch a baseball game at Appalachian Power Park.
Before you even move into your new home in Dunbar, you have to go visit Dutch Hollow Wine Cellars at Wine Cellar Park. While no wine is available there any more, it is the town's most historic site. When it comes to other activities, things like a picnic at City Park, a drink at Tank, or a walk along Kanawha River are common choices. The Dunbar Village Shopping Center is the spot for errands and running into other locals you know. Little Creek Golf Course, which is right across the river, satisfies any golfer's need to hit the links. The people of Dunbar aren't in a hurry, but still do get out and play. If you take it as it comes, you'll find that what you need and want will come to you in Dunbar.
