I need advice...

[moosmom]

I've been living in my apartment for 4 months now. Since I moved in, there have been 5 (count 'em FIVE) incidences of stumbling upon homeless individuals sleeping in the back hallway of my apartment. I've called the police, notified the management every time. Last night was the last straw.

I came home from work last night at 10 pm to find not only a man sleeping in the back hallway, but another one up on the third floor landing (right outside my apartment). He claims the super let him in (which I highly doubt). I called the police, who came out. By the time they arrived, both men were gone.

I don't feel safe in this place anymore and have told the management numerous times. This morning, the rental agent called me to tell me they have an apartment available that's in another location, which is a secured building. It's available right away. Only problem is, there's a $250 lease transfer fee (I told them I didn't feel I should be responsible for it as this whole situation is not my fault), as well as an increase in rent (from $460/month to $580/month incl. ht/hw). I'd have to give them an additional $120 to up my security deposit. It's available now and alot nicer.

I don't know what to do. The other apt. IS alot nicer and roomier, but the rent is $120 more a month than what I'm paying now. I told the agent I was not going to sign anything till I thought it over. I'm worried that if I take this place, I'll be strapping myself financially.

I've applied for senior housing in a different complex in Vernon that was recommended to me by a BB&B customer. It's based on your income and would be MUCH easier financially for me. Only problem with that is, there's a waiting list. I don't turn 55 till next February.

What do I do??? Do I stay where I am till my lease runs out, hoping that there's a vacancy in the senior housing? Or do I take the secured, more expensive apartment? The tenants at the nicer place have lived there for many years, so the vacancies are few and far between.

I asked the agent if I could live at my current place for another month until I can make arrangements to move. She said that they have 3 other appointments to see this nicer place and holding it is not an option.

I kinda figured out my finances and I MIGHT be able to handle the increase. I'd have to really sit down and crunch the numbers before I make a final decision.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated guys!!

[Karen]

I think the decision needs to be based on this:

Which causes you more stress?

A. Worrying you may find a homeless person sheltering in the building you live now? or

B. Worrying about your finances every day, as when things are too close to the bone, any little crisis becomes a major crisis.

[areias]

I say...invite them in! Have a party!

LOL sorry, I couldn't help myself.

I think it is definately a personal decision. If you can afford the other place, go for it! If not, get after the managment at your apartment complex...ask for gates, security cameras, a night at least once at night. Call the police out every single time, and the police will get annoyed and maybe talk to management. Or the homeless people might get a clue and find somewhere else to go.

[caseysmom]

I think "might" be able to afford it is just too scary...I think if you call whenever you see folks then they will find someplace else to go.

[Karen]

Another thought/question:

Have the homeless ever theatened anyone? Might you be able to just have a sheet of paper ready with the names and address of any homeless shelters that you could silently hand them?

[IRescue452]

You pay heat and water seperate in your current apartment? I know that won't come near $120, but its included with the rent in the new place. It sounds like a nicer place and either way you do want to leave the current place. Do you have a local salvation army that you could ask to spot the lease transfer? In WI at least we have very few people who don't qualify for help, so long as we feel that they have enough income to support their expenses and support themselves, we do the one-time help.

[Marigold2]

Wow that is a tough one. However in the long run I think your safety is the number one concern. Nothing else really matters if you are hurt. Perhaps you can cut down on some expense to come up with the difference. Is a room mate a possiblity? Someone to share the rent costs? I wish you the best of luck. No one should have to decide between safety and affordablity however millions do.