Chelsea, Alabaster or ???? (Birmingham, Pelham, Helena: real estate, crime, houses)

[Matiros]

I will be in the Birmingham area on Thursday this week looking at different real estate to move to. On the computer Chelsea, Alabaster and Pelham look interesting. Are there other areas to consider? The most important consideration is an area that is safe from both crime and weather. I would love to be on a small lake or pond. Would like to stay around $300,000. No children so no consideration about schools, etc. Am retired, want easy commute to stores, restaurants, etc. Want peace and quiet. Low taxes. Nice size yard. Any suggestions????

[cpg35223]

If you are retired, then I would recommend Chelsea/Greystone and the rest of that area. There are a lot more amenities down Highway 280 than in Alabaster, although Alabaster does have the Galleria a few miles up the highway.

The main problem with the Chelsea area has more to do with the traffic up and down highway 280, which is a nightmare commute. That being said, if you don't have to make the daily slog into town, then you should be fine. The only other consideration is access to healthcare. The nearest hospital is ten miles away.

[gustygulas]

You may also want to look at Helena. There are a few neighborhoods off south shades crest rd that have some lake lots and views. I believe the houses with lake lots are around 400k plus.

Also look at the subdivision Ballantrae in Pelham.

[Threestep]

Please check your pm. Thank you.