what can you tell me about 78731? (Anderson: real estate, houses, neighborhoods)

[readymade]

Hi all,
I just got a job in the 78731 area code, and I'm curious about the area. It's basically where route 2222 meets Mopac. Is that Hyde Park? If not... what is it?

I'm specifically wondering about real estate. Can I buy a decent house less than 5 miles away for under $300K? And by "house" I mean 3+ bedrooms & 1800+ sq ft. And not a fixer upper. And as far under $300K as possible (actually I probably can't afford more than $250K, but at this point I can't afford ANYthing so it's all dreaming anyway). I like older houses in electic neighborhoods like South Congress, and I DON'T like planned communities or McMansions.

It doesn't have to be less than 5 miles away, but I would like the commute to be as small as possible. Currently it only takes me about 15 minutes, but that's NOT during rush hour. I have NO idea of how long it's "really" going to take.

Also, any suggestions on avoiding traffic during rush hour would be MUCH appreciated. I'm coming from just south east of downtown & the river.

Thanks!

[mimimomx3]

You can't find the house you're looking for at that price in 78731. Maybe 78759, which is like 10 miles from 2222 and Mopac.

[centralaustinite]

78731 is Northwest Hills and Highland Hills and there are no houses in your price range there. Fixer-uppers start at about $400K.

But right across MoPac is Allandale and Crestview. You are within two miles never mind five. There are houses there under 300K but you have to look. Another possibility would be Allandale north, east of MoPac, south of 183 and north of Anderson. Still within five miles, the houses are well-built and cheaper than Allandale proper. The zip is 78757


Good luck!
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[readymade]

Awesome guys... thanks!