My wife and I lived in the (low) Hollywood Hills when we were renting (in a very cool but decrepit 1920s Spanish-style with a view to the ocean on a clear day). After looking in Silverlake, Pasadena, Burbank, Northridge and elsewhere, we decided to try Sherman Oaks. Found something nice at a good price very quickly and then were amazed at just how nice the area was and, more to your point, just how convenient it was. I can be in Santa Monica in under 30 minutes (assuming no traffic), in Hollywood in 15. BH is a straight shot over Beverly Glen. My daily commute to Glendale is under a half hour each way, and my wife's (to Burbank) can be done in under 15. Now we rarely go over the hill except to see friends.
" we decided to try Sherman Oaks. Found something nice at a good price very quickly"
When was this??