Possible move to Chicago (Joliet, Shorewood: condominiums, townhomes, safe neighborhood)

[wiscopapa]

Hi all,
I might have to move my family from Philly to Chicago for work. My job location will be on West Jackson Blvd. I know little about Chicago and want to live in a very family safe neighborhood with a great school system (doesn't everyone). Please, can anyone help suggest a suburb that would be an easy commute to work and single family homes b/t $200-$300K. Is that a pipe dream? I would really appreciate any great advice. Thank you

[SMSchuler]

Well, it all depends on what your idea of an easy commute is. My husband and I live in Shorewood, IL and he takes the train out of Joliet. It is about an hour and 10 minute commute. [mod cut]

[cubssoxfan]

suggest a suburb that would be an easy commute to work and single family homes b/t $200-$300K.

Wiscopapa: The areas I am familiar with (North, Northwest and some western suburbs)will not have decent single family housing in your price range. Smaller, older homes might start around $300K. If you can afford $325-$375 I have many suggestions. The only decent areas that I am familiar with, in your price range, would be newer developments WAAAY out in the "corn-field" suburbs. Maybe other posters will have some areas for you to consider.

[awerne]

Although not technically in the suburbs I would recommend looking into areas on the outskirts of the city. Some areas that come to mind are the Near West Side and Southwest Sides of Chicago. On the Near West Side there is a new development called The Heritage Homes of West Village. They offer walk-up condominiums, simplexes, duplexes, and townhomes within the price range you are looking for. It is a nice area with a friendly neighborhood feel but is also a short commute (5 to 10 minutes) to W Jackson. Visit New West Realty | Home Style Homepage

Park Place Homes is another new development which is on the Southwest Side that also is part of Chicago but is little bit less urban. They have single family homes and townhomes that meet your price criteria. The commute from this location is also easy, about 20 minutes. Visit New West Realty | Home Style Homepage