Arlington Hts vs. Buffalo Grove vs Palatine (Arlington Heights, Northbrook: foreclosures, transfer)

[mojorising]

Transferees from out of state and looking for guidance on pros/cons of relocating to one of these 3 cities. Kids are college age so quality of school district is only a factor for resale. Looking for nice neighborhood feel and shortest travel time possible to/from Northbrook. Prefer to stay under $500K. Understand that's pretty low for the area but hoping depressed market might create more availability.

[tm1982]

I would steer clear of Palatine. Although it has some nice areas, it carries a somewhat negative reputation. Buffalo Grove has a better school district than Arlington Heights, however, both burbs are excellent! I lived in the area and loved it! There is lots of shopping/restaurants, etc.. Arlington Heights has a lovely downtown area worth looking at. Try seeing if there are any foreclosures in the area and go from there..They are tough to close on, but the savings are well worth it in the end!

[cubssoxfan]

I would steer clear of Palatine. Although it has some nice areas, it carries a somewhat negative reputation. Buffalo Grove has a better school district than Arlington Heights, however, both burbs are excellent! I lived in the area and loved it! There is lots of shopping/restaurants, etc.. Arlington Heights has a lovely downtown area worth looking at. Try seeing if there are any foreclosures in the area and go from there..They are tough to close on, but the savings are well worth it in the end!

Ummmm, NO!! There is a small section north of Dundee Rd and West of Rand Rd. that is undesirable. Otherwise Palatine has good schools, library, parks etc. Buffalo Grovie in Cook County goes to same H.S. and elem(Buffalo Grove) as parts of Arlington Heights does. The Lake Co. potion of B.G. goes to different schools.

ALL 3 towns are excellent. Pay attention to the school district. They range from good to outstanding. Depending on where in Northbrook job is located, Deerfield is also worth a look.

[nanannie]

I agree, cubsoxfan, Palatine has just a small area with sec 8 housing.