I live with my husband in the Westville area (cheaper than downtown and East Rock, we get to campus by bus). We rent a 1BR apartment. If you find it hard to get into grad housing, you can consider renting in the area.
I have not personally been in the grad housing, but there are panoramic views available of the interiors, for example, for the Esplanade apartments: http://housing.yale.edu/graduate-housing/esplanade-apartments (click on the captions under the floor plans).
All the best with your application!
