Looking to buy in burbs, not too far west (Berwyn: houses, neighborhood)

[eb314]

I currently live in Lombard and work in the city, commuting via Metra. My wife works at the Hines VA near Maywood and drives to work. We don't have kids and are not planning on any for about 5 years, but schools are a factor.

We're looking to buy in a neighborhood that fits both of our commutes, and have a budget around $350k. I would like to keep the train commute. We're having a hard time finding a place with decent value for $350k. We looked at Oak Park, but prices are fairly high there and the houses are very old/small for what you get at my budget. I'd like to have about 2,000 square feet, and so far LaGrange seems like a good fit. A big plus for us is a short drive for my wife, and 20 minute Metra commute for me, vs 35-40 mins I currently have from Lombard.

Any other suggestions, or pros/cons to LaGrange?

[eb314]

bump

[chet everett]

LaGrange is probably a good option, but if unless you can find a fixer-upper your price point of $350k is going to be just about as hard as it would be in Oak Park. You might have a little better luck in Brookfield or Berwynn.

[OakBrookMom]

LaGrange has terrific train service with fast commute times but the downtown core is challenging for single family homes and if you do find one it most likely will need to be gutted. South of 47th there are usually a few options but that train walk may be a bit long in the winter. Even though Downers is the same distance west as Lombard, the commute times from the Main street station are much better taking express trains and you do get more for your money in the downtown area than LaGrange although over 2000 without counting the basement in the downtown walking distance to train may be difficult there as well. Areas a bit further from the train will afford you much more space and updates combined than you'll ever get in LaGrange. Check out all the areas that will afford you the best commute and be patient, there may only be one or two homes in some of the higher priced areas walking distance to towns like Riverside or Elmhurst but those one or two homes may be the best fit for you.