> preferably with no broker fee

So in other words, you're in search of a Unicorn.

Also, people will poo poo the "$2k" rent budget, but it's doable. You'll just have to take your expectations and knock them down a peg, and then another peg.

You're looking at older buildings resulting in higher utility bills, no laundry on site, constantly having to force your landlord to fix broken things, etc.

If you're serious with your budget and location requirements, you guys should just bite the bullet and share a 2-3 bedroom with two other people.