Where do we live? Help! (Columbia, Irmo: credit, loan, house)

[longbiotech]

I recently relocated from Charlotte to Columbia, and am looking to buy our first home. The house we can afford would be around 150k-170k, 3 bed room and 2 bathroom, and we are now mainly looking in Lexington 1 area 'cause Irmo is a bit more that what we can afford and Lexington 1 has good schools.

Can someone advise me where should we live? I work in downtown and have a kid. is there a good affordable subdivision that is good for kids (quilt and safe)?

Anyone live in Westbrook subdivision or Tri Springs? which one is better for us? Lexington high and White Knoll high, which one is better?(even I do not kids going to high school now, I want to be in good school system.)

Thanks in advance for your opinions!

[SCFriend]

Irmo/Chapin area best in the state. Dutch Fork High Nationally ranked as one of the top 100 schools in the nation. Both my daughters attend school and the district offers homes at every price range. You can get a deal right now.

[Brandon Hoffman]

First there are homes that would fit your budget in Lexington 5 that are nice homes and really good neighborhoods. If you don't already have one hire a good Realtor. It doesn't cost you anything and they'll get you set up with the right loan. You're also a canditate for the $8000 tax credit if you don't make more than 150k as a 2 person household. If you need more details on that let me know.

To answer your second question both are good schools in Lexington. There will over the next couple of years probably be a new HS around the Corley Mill area, FYI. Westbrook is a great subdivision, just like Willowbrooke and Martins Grove next to it. I've sold a home in Westbrook and one of my best friends lives in there. Centex built, awesome location, friendly neighbors, and a pool. Good value for the price IMO.