Relocating -- Dekalb Cty vs. Gwinnett Cty. (Atlanta, Decatur: how much, houses)

[Time2Move2GA]

We are relocating from out of state to GA shortly. Hubby is transferring to Boggs Rd NW, Atlanta (I believe this is considered Gwinnett Cty). Our high schooler is applying to Dekalb School of the Arts (Dekalb Cty), as she is currently in a performing arts school. So, we are trying to figure out which is a better county to buy a home in.

Since our teenager has to audition to get into the school, there is no guarantee that she will make the cut for the coming school year, but may qualify for the subsequent years. If she does not get in, the back up school is N. Gwinnett High based upon state ranking, etc. In the meantime, we want to set roots in a great neighborhood with children, diversity, etc.

Soooo, all of that to say, can anyone provide neighborhood suggestions in both Dekalb and Gwinnett Counties? We know traffic is horrendous, but this would not affect hubby who will be working at night. I will be working after the summer since we are expecting in the spring Any thoughts on best commutes from Dekalb or Gwinnett for me? I realize that this post is rather long, but your help is really needed.

Anything you can provide is sincerely appreciated.

[BobKovacs]

The first question is how much are you looking to spend? There's a big difference in recommendations if you're looking to spend $200k vs $600k.

[JayRockTeam]

As stated above, price range will play a major role in your choice. However there are plenty of options in both counties that I'm sure you will find suitable. As stated in many of the forums here (and the Realtor mantra), location is everything. Do you have an idea of where you will be working?

[Time2Move2GA]

Originally Posted by BobKovacs

The first question is how much are you looking to spend? There's a big difference in recommendations if you're looking to spend $200k vs $600k.

Looking to spend approx $215K-$285K.

[Time2Move2GA]

Originally Posted by JayRockTeam

As stated above, price range will play a major role in your choice. However there are plenty of options in both counties that I'm sure you will find suitable. As stated in many of the forums here (and the Realtor mantra), location is everything. Do you have an idea of where you will be working?

I have no idea where I will be working after our baby is born. However, my intention is to begin focusing on prospective employers after we have settled in (wherever that is) and a routine has been established with the little one. We will not have any childcare issues. My background is in finance/financial services/audit, so I can work for any company with a reasonable commute (if there is a such thing)

[JayRockTeam]

Ok then you'll likley want to be looking in North Decatur, Druid Hills area. You'll be close enough to the school, but still have pretty easy access to shopping, highways, etc. That area can get pretty congested, and the houses tend to be older in that area (but they built them better back then right?), however there are a some really nice communities there.

.

[lastminutemom]

If your child is ever going to go to DSA -- you must live in DeKalb. If you buy a home in Gwinnett, that ceases to be an option. What grade is your child in? To be honest, if she qualifies academically, I suspect she will get in. (unless she is older and the grade level is full)

What is your price range for a home -- depending on what part of DeKalb, the $ goes much further than in Gwinnett.

DSA is a magnet school and some transportation will be provided for your daughter so you can really live anywhere in DEKalb, though the ride could be as long as two hours.

The school is moving to Avondale high -- either for the 08-09 school year or the 09-10 school year.

I just wanted to make sure you understand that you must live in DeKalb for your child to attend DSA.

[atlantagreg30127]

Just avoid South Dekalb: 11Alive.com - DeKalb Police Target Home Invasions

[Time2Move2GA]

Originally Posted by lastminutemom

If your child is ever going to go to DSA -- you must live in DeKalb. If you buy a home in Gwinnett, that ceases to be an option. What grade is your child in? To be honest, if she qualifies academically, I suspect she will get in. (unless she is older and the grade level is full)

What is your price range for a home -- depending on what part of DeKalb, the $ goes much further than in Gwinnett.

DSA is a magnet school and some transportation will be provided for your daughter so you can really live anywhere in DEKalb, though the ride could be as long as two hours.

The school is moving to Avondale high -- either for the 08-09 school year or the 09-10 school year.

I just wanted to make sure you understand that you must live in DeKalb for your child to attend DSA.

These detailed responses are awesome! Thank you! After speaking with the GA Dept of Ed, I do understand that residence is a must for DSA. My daughter is an honor student and will be entering the 9th grade for the 08-09 school year.

As I mentioned in an earlier reply, we are looking to spend approx. $200K - $285K.

[Time2Move2GA]

Originally Posted by JayRockTeam

Ok then you'll likley want to be looking in North Decatur, Druid Hills area. You'll be close enough to the school, but still have pretty easy access to shopping, highways, etc. That area can get pretty congested, and the houses tend to be older in that area (but they built them better back then right?), however there are a some really nice communities there.

.

I could not agree more about the older homes being better built (with the exception of lead paint and a few HVAC issues). The newer ones are prettier to look at, but the quality seems as though a gust of wind could easily knock them down

We are going to do further research into the area you recommended. I am most appreciative.