Moving to LA (Simi Valley, Bell, West Hollywood: real estate, renting, low crime)

[calves2997]

I will be finishing my training 6/2010 and am seriously considering moving to the greater LA area. The reason for this is that my wife has her nearest relatives in the area. (they live in Brentwood and West Hollywood).
I am married with three children, so I am looking for a good city with excellent schools, low crime and good access to the freeways.

I have a solid job offer (contracted for three years), which is located in the SFV (Sherman Oaks). I have set up an appointment with a realtor to look at homes in Calabasas and Bell Canyon, but I am concerned about the commute on the 101 freeway. Are there any other viable living options? I have been pre-approved for a home up to 1.6 M, but considering the housing market we may be renting initially.

Any information is appreciated.
Carlos

[stormbow]

Why don't you try looking in Simi Valley and Moorpark. Very low crime, 118 freeway runs right down the middle, schools are good (better in Simi). Of course, I'm biased, I've been here pretty much since 1976.

[RatherBeInCabo]

I have been in Simi Valley since 1986 and it is a great place and just a short drive to L.A. With a house budget of 1.6mil, you can have one of the nicest house in the area.

For example, check out this example at 1.05mil to see what you could have.

3186 Reservoir Dr, Simi Valley, CA, 93065 - MLS #90005515 - Single Family Home real estate - REALTOR.com®

Even if you drop down to the high 5's, you could have a fantastic house. Simi Valley ranks in the top 10 safest cities in the U.S. with populations over 100k every year.