Lawrence or Topeka : working in Topeka (real estate market, to rent, crime)

[jess1]

Advice wanted,

I work in Topeka, just moved here a few months ago. I rent in Lawrence but the rent is as much as to own a home in Topeka. What do you think, is it worth it to buy a smaller house in Lawrence and commute to Topeka or a larger house in Topeka with less chances of resale (we may move in a few years). ALso, higher crime in Topeka. Any advice appreciated. THNX!

[Samantha S]

Originally Posted by jess1

Advice wanted,

I work in Topeka, just moved here a few months ago. I rent in Lawrence but the rent is as much as to own a home in Topeka. What do you think, is it worth it to buy a smaller house in Lawrence and commute to Topeka or a larger house in Topeka with less chances of resale (we may move in a few years). ALso, higher crime in Topeka. Any advice appreciated. THNX!

With today's real estate market, I'd want to know I was staying somewhere at least 5-6 years before buying a house. Especially one in a place like Topeka.

In Lawrence, you might be able to get away with it. Smaller houses are often easy to trade in Lawrence because people buy them and rent them out to college students.

So long as you don't mind the commute. Otherwise, I'd find a cheap place to rent in Topeka, if you don't mind living in Topeka.

[Hueffenhardt]

I live in Seaman school district, just north of Topeka. It has a semi-rural feel. The houses in Seaman go quick. We put an offer in on what is now our house last May, a few days after it came on the market. And I have seen a number of houses in the neighborhood go equally as quick, even in this economy and housing market. Crime (personal or property) is very low up here, really anywhere outside of the Topeka city limits. I would not hesitate to buy here.

I like Lawrence, too. I lived there for 8 years while going to school. It is more expensive than Topeka. I really like living 10 minutes from work (downtown).

[GraniteStater]

Resale is much better in Lawrence. Don't expect much appreciation in Topeka at all. A house will generally be harder to sell in Topeka overall due to the fact that the city has had continued job losses over several years.