Job in Annapolis Junction. Where to live? (Columbia, Elkridge: for sale, HOA)

[forgetfulone]

So my hubby is looking at a job in Annap. Junction. Where do people live when working there? I've been looking at homes on Trulia and maps but that doesn't give me a feel for the places. We're a young family so good schools mean a lot. I'm also a teacher but taking a few years off...so I'll eventually want to go back to work. I would like my husband to not have to commute very far, maybe a half hour. Is this doable?

I looked at Pasadena and saw some homes on the water that were around 320k. Is this a normal price for this area? What about other areas? We couldn't spend more than that.

Also, if a suburban area is out, what about a nice family area that I could walk to a lot of places with the kids? Schools, playgrounds, shopping, etc? I don't want to be out in the middle of nowhere, so please keep that in mind.

I noticed a ton of town homes for sale. Are townhomes/condos normal for Maryland?

I have a lot more questions, but figure I'd start with these.

We're living in Melbourne, FL right now. So Maryland is a different lifestyle for sure! Thanks for any insight you may have.

[jallison27]

Pasadena is nice, but if you're finding waterfront for 320k it's an area you don't want to be in.

Send me a direct message and I can provide some insight, having lived in AA County for the past 20+ years.

[tysons2008]

I would suggest Crofton area. Nice area and still up and coming stores being built. Plus their home values have held up while other areas have decline.

[landstander79]

Townhouses and Condos are quite common in central MD, and they will be your best bet for nice yet affordable housing.

Considering you have kids I would recommend Elkridge for the Howard County Schools, which are the best in the state. Elkridge is about 10-15 minutes from Annapolis Junction, the houses are affordable and you are close to Columbia which offers many of the things you are looking for. (I personally wouldn't live in Columbia due to the association fees and stricter HOA rules, but it's another option if those things don't bother you).