Is Applewood/Wheat Ridge the right place? (Denver, Aurora: house, neighborhood)

[allykat623]

Hi all,
I have been scouring the threads for insight and info in preparation for our family's move back to Colorado after a long time in New England. I grew up in Ft Collins & have extended family there and in the Denver area. We're hoping to get moved later this summer ... just have to get our house sold!

I was focusing our search on south Boulder/Louisville/Lafayette... until I started reading more about Applewood and environs. The more I know, the more it appeals to me. But I'm torn. I'd love to get your 2 cents.

Here's the gist: we have 4 kids, oldest is 10. My younger son has special needs and based on his needs we must be in the Boulder Valley or Jeffco school district. For the other kids I am looking at Jeffco Open School or Compass Montessori; or Boulder Community School & New Vista HS (future) -- something alternative (my oldest is currently homeschooled but we're looking at getting him back into school).

Walkability is important. We want to avoid HOAs. Easy access to bus, shopping, parks, etc. is key. Older homes on biggish (10K sq ft) lots are desirable.

For now my husband will work mostly at home with a good amount of travel. Future jobs would be in Boulder or Denver (he's in high tech/computers).

In terms of location, we want to be max 30-40 min to Boulder & Denver (for future jobs), ~45 to DIA, and ~30 min to the Children's Hospital in Aurora.

It looks like we could be as far south in Lakewood/Applewood as 20th Ave and still be within a reasonable commute to Boulder. On the other hand, even the southern edge of Boulder seems like a stretch for a future commute into Denver (I know 36 can get bad) and regular trips to DIA. Applewood/Wheat Rdige/even southern edge of Arvada seems like the sweet spot... but will these areas hold their value & continue their community upswings? Am I wrong about Boulder/Louisville being too far out?

Thanks for any insight you can provide!

-Allykat

[Jerry Bckr]

You can't go wrong with Applewood. The neighborhood is older and on larger lots. It's at the age where homes are due for major up-dating. Some have and some haven't and that will be reflected in the price. I think Applewood will continue to be a strong neighborhood.