The Peterstown House, a national historic landmark, embodies Waterloo's elegance and proud history. Located on Main Street, this saltbox dates back to the 1860s and functioned as an inn and pub along the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail. It's the last stagecoach inn still standing on this historic road.
Note: this is NOT the Waterloo where Napoleon was defeated
The Peterstown House, a national historic landmark, embodies Waterloo's elegance and proud history. Located on Main Street, this saltbox dates back to the 1860s and functioned as an inn and pub along the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail. It's the last stagecoach inn still standing on this historic road.
Note: this is NOT the Waterloo where Napoleon was defeated. Located in Monroe County, this Waterloo is home to 9,811 people and a charming historic feel. What makes it even more pleasant to live here is the amount of annual events. Numerous parks, ample community resources, and a welcoming atmosphere add to this pleasantness. Needless to say, you'll feel pleasant living here. The dining, niche shopping and golf are all nice too. In nearly every aspect, Waterloo satisfies. Sure, it's not as splendid as nearby St. Louis, but it's not trying to be. This is Waterloo, and you'll never be saying boo hoo here!
A low crime rate and charming architecture only increase Waterloo's attraction. A search for property rentals in Waterloo isn't as easy as choosing a toy. You can't just select what you want, but you can get something suitable with a little effort.
Come When the Bells End
While the low renter-occupancy rate and low amount of vacancies during certain times may have you shaking in your boots, know that you will see a lot more listings starting in May. If you are searching for house rentals, for instance, you'll find more available from May through mid-August. During such times, 15 to 20 days is enough time to search. During other times, allot 30 days.
Be Realistic
If you love views of skyscrapers, Waterloo isn't your spot. You aren't going to find high-rise apartments here, and a large majority of rentals are attached houses. However, you will find a nice mix of pads. From duplexes for rent to large country estates, you also have options like a townhouse on Plaza Parkway.
Make Sure You Won't Regret It
Nearly a fifth of homes in Waterloo date back to the 1930s or earlier. Some of these historic estates look exceptional. However, hold back your awe until you know the house runs perfectly. If you rent something within a new complex, this won't be as much of an issue. Just be clear on what is to be done if something, like the plumbing, malfunctions.
Shaking Hands
You can shake hands after you've completed the lease agreement. To do that, one or two months' rent (depending upon the landlord or management's preference), a security deposit, and proof of income need to be provided. A credit check may be requested too. Also, organize your residence history and make copies of applicable personal information. Note that coming prepared can help you secure an ideal spot.
The city, at 7.66 square miles, isn't impressively large, but certainly boasts several different neighborhoods. You can't have it all in one location, though. Sometimes you have to sacrifice green space for having the convenience of walking to the store. Choose the neighborhood that has what you want.
City Center: Where fireworks blast, legends sing and the night howls. Okay, it's not that epic, but you will find the area around Main Street quite cool. You can walk for most of your errands, and there is a bus line. Have a drink at the Main Street Saloon, play golf at the Ridge Club Golf Course, and shop at Echoes of the Past Antiques. You also get proximity to State Route 3.
Fountain Gap: In the north part of town, this area is a bit less populated and much more car-dependent. It's great if you want room to stretch. Waterloo Country Club and Island Lake are two highlights. The Mississippi River, in all its glory, flows near this part of town.
Lakeview: Near Maeystown and beside the Waterloo Reservoir, this area also requires a car.
Waterloo, if you live near Main Street, is incredibly walkable. A bus line ensures you can get around the greater region. Within town, cycling works as well. While most folks choose to drive, you can get by fine on two wheels or two feet. A car helps if you want to go to St. Louis for a Cardinals baseball game, see that Gateway Arch or stroll through Forest Park.
Historic landmarks like the Petertown House, Captain James Moore Farmstead and the Fountain Creek Bridge set the tone for Waterloo. Annual events like Porta Westfalica (a celebration of their sister city), the Monroe County Fair and Pumpkin Fest bring energy to the town.
Green spaces such as Koenigsmark Park, Konarcik Park and Lakeview Park provide serenity. Several golf courses, music in the Courthouse Square and shows at the Capital Theater offer consistent entertainment. Specialty shops in the Waterloo Historic District, such as Gail's Coins and Collectables, Mill Street Treasures and Green Forest Vapor Shop, can help your wallet lose weight. Dining venues like the Bean Tree Cafe, JV's Downtown Bar and Grill and Dreamland Palace always delight.
As you can see, Waterloo is a place that doesn't come up short in any way. By living in Waterloo, you can come out a winner. There's nothing stopping you!
