Visiting Rome in Sept., moving in new year

Hello Internations,

My name is Jeff, I currently live in San Diego. I'm taking a trip to Rome and Florence September Protected content visiting for the purpose of learning and scouting out potential areas and neighborhoods to move into. I'd love advice as far as best places to stay and do that kind of ground work (outside of the tourist areas) as well as things to see and experience off the tourist trail. I am hoping to connect with a number of people while there to simply learn and listen to what's going on in the city already. We are looking to move to Italy in the new year. Thanks for the help!