Tips on Out of Town Renting

So, since I'll be in Ithaca for the School of Crit and Theory this summer I'm looking into sublets on-line. Anyone have any tips for picking a place sight unseen? Every time I've tried to do so it hasn't worked out for the best - on the other hand, I've never really liked any of my apartments, so I may just be a picky bitch when it comes to housing. Any ideas/advice? Anyone actually live near/has visited Ithaca and can tell me which parts are best to live in?