I'm back in the waiting stage. I called the realtor for an update as it had been about 3 weeks and I hadn't heard anything, and she said there is a second floor apartment that they have to rehab but it should be ready in about a month. She even mentioned the number, so I drove to the complex on Saturday to see exactly where it is.

Balcony - check. South-facing - check. It's even a corner apartment so there should be more light which is perfect. Also a plus is that when I called it sounded like I was first on the list so my odds are good. I just have to have patience. I've been here three years, I can make it another month!