Scott -
The Phoenix metro area is HUGE!!! The suggestion of finding a place near work is a good one. Traffic is horrible and can take hour + to get across the valley. I have lived in Mesa and Chandler, but that was 9 years ago. Finding a place that has garages is a good idea, but they are not all that common unless its a condo or house.
When you interview, ask about housing and neighborhoods - drive around while there for the interviews to get a feel for the neighborhoods.
Becky
