I'd say start searching now because you never know what you'll be able to find, try apartments.com, Facebook Marketplace, maybe Craigslist if you're brave, and I found a site called roomies.com where you can find rooms and connect with like minded people also searching. I found my place quick; My employer let me know I got the job around 2 weeks before the start date, I found my current place within a week on... Source: 6 months ago

Even if you aren't renting, I'd look for places using apartments.com commute distance feature. All roads in NJ are not created equal. You'll be able to live much further(cheaper, prettier, more space) the further south or west you go, and more than likely 95 or 80 will serve you better than the Garden State Parkway, Route 1, 9, 18, 27, 130. Source: 6 months ago

If you aren't local, try places like zillow, apartments.com, rentcollegepads, or google places like JSM, MHM, Smile, Green Street Realty, University Group, Roland, Bankier, Ramshaw, etc. Source: 6 months ago

You have the budget to afford one of those luxury buildings. There aren't many (any?) in Somerville like that, I think it's due to permits/regulations or something. But if you up your budget filters on apartments.com you could still find something in Somerville with off street parking included. Source: 6 months ago

I always found hidden gems on Craigslist. People shit on it all the time but I preferred it over apartments.com and the like. No b/s, just pay the owner a flat fee monthly. Source: 6 months ago

You must also nail down your budget and get a more accurate cost estimate for your building project. For instance, you must not forget about allocating a budget for contingency. It will give you enough wiggle room in case of sudden changes, such as the cost of materials and even theft or burglary. Ideally, you must set aside 10 to 15% of your total budget for contingency. Source: 12 months ago