Moving To Baltimore from Mass

[jaindow]

I'm coming in a bit late I think, but as I was reading the thread I was thinking that your best option would really be to rent first until you get comfortable with the surrounding areas. It looks like you've already come to this conclusion with your wife. Even though input from others help a great deal, we've found the experience of taking our time and exploring the areas firsthand to be invaluable. Not only have we driven through our top choice areas, but on some weekends we decide to run our errands (grocery shopping, banking, etc.) in the different areas so we really get a "feel" for the area and what day-in and day-out life might be like in that area.

Also, you mentioned trying to get your employer to throw in some telecommuting time right off the bat and I think that is an excellent idea... no matter how long your commute is.

Good luck!

[JDCATONSVILLE]

I used to live in Catonsville with my wife and two kids. Both my wife and myself grew up in that area and it is a decent area for families. Arbutus and White Marsh are also nice as well as some areas of Howard Co. But as a general rule Maryland is to over crowded, over priced and far too much crime. That's why I said we used to live in Maryland, but two months ago I was able to transfer through my job and now we live in Merrill,Wisconsin. Now my 16mile commute consists of two stop signs and farms. The air is cleaner, the housing prices are mindblowingly lower and everyone is so friendly. But with any luck you and your family will find a nice house with a good neighborhood and enjoy many years there. I did for 38 years and still have family there. So good luck and I wish you success and hapiness.