What is safe what is not? (Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines: condo, low crime, house)

[JMC49]

It seems each time I find a house to buy someone says oh no don't buy there unles you have a dog, security cameras and an alarm system. Has the entire city of FT Lauderdale and surrounding areas just gone to hell? And if they have why do so many people still live there. There must be affordable areas that are safe with low crime. I have always loved Ft Lauderdale but where to buy? South Middle River and Middle River are right next Wilton Manors I thought good area but not so says people who live there.
I am single, no kids, gay but not in need of a gayborhood.Up to $120,000 cash is the budget.
Thanks

[JSnFla]

yes, most of broward county and many parts of the city limits of ft lauderdale have completely gone to hell. there will always be unsuspecting transients with no knowledge of the area that are willing to move to the area to start over in what they perceive will be paradise, there is no end to that vicious cycle. Anyhow, if u must live in the area then just stick to the traditional safety zones....generally east of us1 in lauderdale or west of university in the burbs, avoid the rest, good luck

[JMC49]

Thank you.

[2ForTheSea]

I think the budget is part of the problem. I don't think that will buy you much of a house in a great neighborhood, but it would probably get you into a condo in a fairly decent place.

[Nolefan34]

If I were you, I'd look in one of the western suburbs. The eastern areas nearest to the water are more expensive for less housing. I would like in areas like Coral Springs, Weston, Cooper City, Sunrise, Plantation, Davie, and Pembroke Pines. Those areas are reasonably safe west of University Drive and more affordable.

[lls1662]

Originally Posted by JSnFla

Anyhow, if u must live in the area then just stick to the traditional safety zones....generally east of us1 in lauderdale or west of university in the burbs, avoid the rest, good luck

This a good generalization of the area. There are some areas between US1 and University that are good as well.

What is important to you? Near work, nightlife, beach, security, house, condo, etc. If you can give more criteria, there are several options.

[Thor88]

The biggest problem you are going to face as a homeowner is residential burglaries. No matter what area you live in, you are prone to getting hit. The way I see it, Broward county as a whole has become ugly and dilapidated, with a few notable exceptions. East Fort Lauderdale, Weston, parts of Coral Springs, and Parkland are all pricey for a reason. All the other parts of Broward are incredibly similar, so you might as well choose a city to live in based upon where you work, go to school, etc. The chances of you being affected by violent crime are very slim. You will be prone to property crimes in every South Florida city, so at the end of the day your worries are unnecessary.

[SierraDog]

Originally Posted by JMC49

It seems each time I find a house to buy someone says oh no don't buy there unles you have a dog, security cameras and an alarm system. Has the entire city of FT Lauderdale and surrounding areas just gone to hell? And if they have why do so many people still live there. There must be affordable areas that are safe with low crime. I have always loved Ft Lauderdale but where to buy? South Middle River and Middle River are right next Wilton Manors I thought good area but not so says people who live there.
I am single, no kids, gay but not in need of a gayborhood.Up to $120,000 cash is the budget.
Thanks

I think you should consult with a realtor who is familiar with Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, and Wilton Manors. However, your budget will not find you a single family home in a decent area UNLESS you buy a 1950s-1960s era fixer that needs substantial work (like another $50,000 worth of roof, windows, etc.) AND most likely is in an area that is somewhat marginal (i.e., North Andrews Gardens areas of Oakland Park/Wilton Manors, Riverland Area of Fort Lauderdale).

If you are interested in a condo, however, you're probably going to be able to find a 1 bedroom in East Fort Lauderdale (just not Las Olas) in an older building. A friend recently sold his 1 bedroom in a building off the intercoastal around Oakland Park Blvd. I believe it sold somewhere around $90,000, but the building is older and therefore you'll have higher assessments for building upgrades and improvements. His unit was also straight out of the 80s, not updated.

[JMC49]

Thank you for the information. I am looking for a house from the 50's, 60's and 70's I don't like the newer homes with small lots and being able to touch the house next door.

[cfbs2691]

Originally Posted by JSnFla

yes, most of broward county and many parts of the city limits of ft lauderdale have completely gone to hell. there will always be unsuspecting transients with no knowledge of the area that are willing to move to the area to start over in what they perceive will be paradise, there is no end to that vicious cycle. Anyhow, if u must live in the area then just stick to the traditional safety zones....generally east of us1 in lauderdale or west of university in the burbs, avoid the rest, good luck

Well said