Should we move to Suffolk? Franklin? (Norfolk, Chesapeake: real estate, for rent, insurance)

[2VAWEGO]

Can anyone give me info on nice, safe neighborhoods in Suffolk or Franklin? Any good or bad things to know? I've checked into some real estate and found some nice and affordable (under $200K) but would like any feedback you can give me. Schools will not be an issue. 15-20 minutes to a grocery store and a Walmart/Target? Interracial area is ideal. Thanks!!

[shellytc]

where would you be working? Franklin can be quite a drive, and with gas prices... can make it more expensive in the long run. Suffolk has a lot going for it and will continue to grow. It is very racially mixed and you will be within your time frame for grocery stores and big box stores....

shelly

[2VAWEGO]

Shellytc-I would be working at the Post Office (Dist. Center) on Church st in Norfolk, if I can get my transfer. I'm looking into this area as well as the Richmond area so I will know where we can live if I can get a transfer to either plant. There is new construction advertised in Suffolk on a real estate website, any feedback?

[shellytc]

I lived in Richmond for 20 years : ) I loved it. But if you like a rural setting, but still close to shopping and work, then suffolk is your ticket!!! There is a lot of new construction and resale less than 5 years old in Suffolk. Under 200k is a little harder but not out of the question. If you go new construction, still get your own agent. they will help you with any incentives being offered and help you pick the right lot, etc for resale. and keep your interest first in mind. The agent at the site represents the builder, not you!!!

Shelly

[ljmgam]

We live in a suburb of Suffolk. It is 9 miles West of Suffolk downtown and 9 miles East of Franklin Virginia. We have a 2 acre property in area code 23437 (Holland) The neighborhood is multi racial and VERY much in the country. Right now we have our house on the market with a real estate agent, our contract is up in December. After we don't have an agent, we can reduce our price. The house has 4 bdrms, (we use 2 of them for offices),2 fireplace, an "in deck pool" and is already wired for wi-fi and satellite. The Master is 24'x 24 feet and has his and her separate baths with walk in closets. If you are interested in, or want pictures, let me know. Restaurants, shopping, and the interstate in just 15 minutes away. The neighbors are all fantastic.

[marnay]

We will be listing our home for rent in the next couple of months. It is 2500 sqft, 3/2.5, on a lake, 2 acres, fenced and pet friendly! We are near the Hwy 58 bypass. I love Suffolk, it is near everything yet still far enough away to have your slice of country life!

[brants421]

Have lived in suffolk all my life. Suffolk has what is now called a North side and South side. South side is near Franklin, more rural, and wider open space. Not as close in relation to supermarkets or Walmart. Suffolk is quiet. Nice family friendly and more quiet. The north side is more developed with more neighborhood (developed). It is closer to Walmart(s). We have 2 of them. Most people who want to be closer to folks choose the north side. People who love horses, opt for the south side. Manning Rd (south side ) has some nice size homes that are a little more spread out. Chatman Woods subdivision, Harbor pointe ( north side) are a nice too. These all have homes that are close to interstate (not close enough that you can hear though. There is also a nice subdivision near Kilby Shores elementary school (ask your agent, can't remember the name) which has new homes (nice) that no one ever lived in. (guess developer ran low on cash. Great location though. Crime is mild in the city so there aren't really any bad areas (home wise) but if you let me know your taste and interest I could better help. I am not a realtor and am too busy with my career and kids to get a second job. But my sister used this site for her move to SC and just trying to put folks mind at ease, the same way someone (thank goodness for her.
(a neat trick is also to call a local insurance agent. Pick a well known company and ask their district office for their top producer, they are trying to get your business anyway and they will give you the juice. it worked for my sister!!! In response to your question about franklin, my father owns a business right next to the walmart there and traveling from franklin to norfolk would be a hump BELIEVE ME

[marinewife32]

wher is your home located,in a subdivision? can you recommend any subdivisions near there? we are commuting to NAS.

[northwood84]

I have been offered a job at Kings Fork High School. Before I accept it, I am planning on researching the area. I currently am living in Rochester, NY ( population 200,000). Where could I find a place that is not big city, but not very rural... I'm looking for a small city atmosphere, but with the variety and chocies taht a city has to offer? Should I consider looking at Chesapeake or Portsmith? or is the commute going to be too time consuming ( over an hour- horrible traffic)? Any help is greatly appreciated

[theok]

It sounds like you would enjoy Northern Suffolk, the Harbor Pointe area. It has that small city atmosphere with a cultural flair. A lot of cute cafes and restaurants and eclectic dive bars to hang out in and grab a good meal. Depending on your price range you might like the Riverfront and Barbage Grant areas. I helped a couple friends of mine buy homes in those areas and they love it. They're in their late 20's and don't have kids yet. I'm a realtor so if I can help in any way let me know.