Future Plans

I am now past the half-way point of my time in Japan. While I still have a fair amount of time left here (and quite a few exciting plans to make the most if it), that, coupled with several other things, has turned my mind to what I'll need to do to get ready to move back to the Twin Cities.

First, and foremost, is (of course) get into law school. Preparations for this are well underway. Select people will be asked to screen written components sometime soon (probably).

Secondly, I need to sell all my stuff here. Going to wait a bit longer on this, but I have ideas (most of which involve the resale shop).

Thirdly, I need to figure out the regulations for bringing pets into the U.S. I've already talked to NWA and the FAA about this. Must talk to Customs and Border Patrol next. Also bought a travel carrier for Yan Cha (finished- yay!)
Sidenote: If anyone has any tips on making long flights easier for cats (she'll be in the cabin), they'd be much appreciated.

Fouth (and the one that I'm having the most issues with), I have to find someplace to live (and someone to live with). Since I've never really rented in the Twin Cities, I have no idea what a decent rent would be, where it'd be most convenient to live, etc. Advice or leads on this would be incredibly helpful. What I'm hoping to find:
2 bedrooms
decent neighborhood
near bus lines or campus (hopefully the U)
allows cats
parking
a roommate
Things that would be nice, but are much more negotiable:
larger kitchen
utilities included
washer/drier in unit (or in building)
wood floors
Obviously I'm not looking for anything right away, but it'd be nice to know what areas to look in, and what would be considered a reasonable rent.