The Starter Apartment Is Nearly Extinct in San Francisco and New York

[meaculpa2011]

6. My wife and I live in a very nice...

community 35 minutes by train from midtown Manhattan.

When we were first married we lived on the Upper Eastside near Hunter College where we both attended.

Our rent was $195 for a one-room walk-up (220 square feet) four flights up. That apartment now rents for over $2,000.

Since our kids are grown I'm now converting the playroom/family room area of our home into a one-bedroom, 800 square foot apartment with a 12X16 outdoor patio. We have a vibrant downtown area with plenty of restaurants and bars within walking distance.

I'll be asking $1,800 per month which includes all utilities, separate washer/dryer and cable TV. The tenant will even have their own thermostat for heat and A/C.

I think it's reasonable. My 93-year-old father is horrified that I would charge that much.

Every time we entertain the idea of moving back into the city, the expense, the crowds, the inconvenience... jolt us back to reality.

It's a big, beautiful world with plenty of great places to live.