M.B.
If you like the older housing stock and the neighborhood feeling--I would also suggest checking out the Shaw neighborhood. It's just south of Forest Park Southeast, and just south of hwy 44.
It is situated between Tower Grove Park and hwy 44, with the Missouri Botanical Garden at the west end. There are beautiful houses and a mix of young families, young couples, retired-age couples, and rental property with a variety of working people. There is some urban crime in these city neighborhoods--like car theft and property crimes--but to check the stats yourself, STL has a great website you should look at before you buy.
http://safecity.slmpd.org/
Best of luck in your search!