Our Apt Search in Bogota (Chico, Chico Virrey, Reservado, Rosales)

Dear Bogota Expats!
It's been quite a few days of apt searching here in Bogota.  We are receiving a significant housing allowance, though it is not able to or meant to cover the total cost of the housing and utilities.  I am pretty surprised by the cost of the apartments in Bogota (the northern part that we have investigated).

Here are our criteria points, in order of priority:

• In a safe, nice neighborhood in walking distance of cafes-restaurants and grocery stores
• 2-3 bedrooms
• View of the mountains and good light, high floor
• Good floors, good solid windows that keep out the sound and cold - good insulation so that we will not feel cold in the house even without any heat turned on (note, there is no central heating generally in Colombia)
• Modern design with open kitchen and a large living room
• Good closets, clean bathrooms and nice finishings
• "Linea blanca" (washer-dryer, dish washing machine) must be included
• The dryer should be hooked up to a gas line, to be more economical
• Utilities must in the name of the owner
• A "calentador" central water heater is part of the building so thst the supply is constant
• A power generatr as part of the building
• Above floor 4 (for security reasons)
• Apt must be approved by UN Security
• Entry way must have a ramp
• Door and elevator must be greater than 32.5" so that the stroller can fit
• Additional amenities - gym, pool, squash, play area for kids, terrace, party lounge

With our budget, we hopefully will get everything on our list!

UPDATE (10/6/2013):  We heard today - early this morning - that the offer we put in for an incredible penthouse apartment in Chico Virrey has been accepted!

Saludos

Avila