EXCLUSIVE

Kim Richards has taken at least one step in her 12 step recovery ... she found a place to live.

Kim was practically homeless -- living in her car -- when her family refused to take her in after she bailed on rehab. But now we're told she's living in a somewhat swanky Westwood condo.

Kim's new place is small -- 1 bedroom and 1 bath -- but the building has all sorts of amenities, including a gym. Rent in the building ranges from $3k-$5k a month.

No word on who's footing the bill, since Kim's out of work after getting the ax on "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills."