piti

Hi, I am an international PhD student and have been admitted to UGA Plant Biology program starting this August. I am planning to come to Athens in the end of July. I have read all the comments in this topic, found it very helpful to get to know Athens a little bit from the distance. I have spend already couple of days online on house hunting and unfortunately couldn't find much apart from big apartment complexes (which are advised against from what I read here). Also, I read to stay close to Lumpkin street and Milledge Ave, however, I have difficulties in finding any options, even further away. I am a little confused - many people here say that finding great affordable housing in Athens is easy, for me it seems to be quite the opposite. Most 1 BR/1 BTH apartments I see are for $650-$900, while people before me said about prices closer to $500. Am I missing something? Did the prices rise over the years or/and are most places already rented? Should I rent something asap as it will be difficult to find housing in the end of July or would it be better for me to find sth to stay temporarily and look around when being on place? I heard that many smaller complexes are difficult to find online. I will appreciate any help. Thanks!