Honestly I would say just hit the pavement in the neighborhoods you want to live in. Agreed, Craigslist is a cesspool. A lot of nice deals can be found by owners who either don't want to or don't have time for posting online and dealing with tons of responses. Apartment agencies can be good too. Also try (if you're in the U.S.) domu.com among many others. Your credit score might also be a factor here.
As for roommates, why not people you already know? Or find people through them?
As for roommates, why not people you already know? Or find people through them?