Gracia Alcobas, 40, was riding the bus when she saw the signs for The Park at Briarcliff. "I was living near Emory University, and I was actively looking for a new apartment," she says. "I depend on public transportation, and this location is on three bus lines, and it's not far from where I work. I decided I had to check the place out, so I came in. I thought it was a great deal, and I signed a lease."

Her apartment: "At first I started out in a one-bedroom apartment, but I found a roommate and I moved to a two-bedroom one. We have a balcony that overlooks the woods; the area is full of trees and there's plenty of coverage, so it feels very private and tranquil. I've been here about seven months."

Christopher Oquendo/Special (ENLARGE)

The Park at Briarcliff an apartment community that feels like it's in the woods but is close to bus lines and I-85.

Getting there Take I-85 north to Exit 89 (N. Druid Hills). Turn right. Go to Briarcliff Road and turn right. The Park at Briarcliff is on the left.

The amenities: "There are tennis courts and a 24-hour fitness gym. I love to swim, so I really enjoy the pool, and I use the trails around the lake. I love seeing the geese."

Great location: "For me, it's only 10 minutes from work. It's close to everything. I can get to the Lindbergh MARTA station and go downtown or get on the 16 bus and get to Virginia-Highland and Emory. We're five minutes from I-85."

There are options, too: "There's the Hillside area and Lakeside. Hillside is brighter because there are fewer trees, and it's closer to Briarcliff Road, so it's convenient. Lakeside is tucked away, but that makes it peaceful and quieter. We have lots of trees."

Safety and a great price: "I feel really safe here. I feel I can walk around at night and be perfectly fine. There's always a maintenance person available. And the price is awesome. I think this is the best deal in town."

The Park at Briarcliff

Address: 1491 Druid Valley Drive

County: DeKalb

Information: 404-633-3520; www.gables.com

Year built: 1964

Rent (subject to change): one-bedroom $630-$705; two—bedroom $750-$875; three-bedroom $965-$1,060; three-bedroom townhome $1,070; four-bedroom townhome $1,195

Fees: application $75; security, waived with approved credit; pet $400; administrative fee $250

Pet restrictions: to 85 pounds; nonaggressive breeds only

Managed by: Gables Residential

Number of units: 1,017

Amenities: Lake with lighted jogging trail, gazebo and picnic area; two swimming pools; fitness center; clubhouse with stone fireplace; two tennis courts; two carwash facilities; dog run; four laundry facilities

Units for disabled: yes

Public schools: Briar Vista Elementary, Shamrock Middle School, Druid Hills High