Short term (2 or so year) renting seems prudent for us because of the flexibility, but the quality of the condos for rent is off, too many estate condition places with lousy kitchens and baths for my wife's taste. Others experience the same? We aren't considering the rental buildings because they are just too open with their rules and the like. But then the brokers, you'd think they'd be thrilled for a $10k check, but 15%?

There's quite a bit of nice inventory if you can afford it.

The fact of the matter is, in this market, you don't get "nice" until you hit at least $4K/month.

all the new inventory comes on the market after Labor Day Weekend. Sit tight and see what hits the market. You will be pleasantly surprised.