Trying to sell condo and move to Billerica - how is that town for kids (Boston: housing)

[aomething]

We've had our condo up for sale since July and 2 offers, but nothing that was accepted on either end. We are looking to move to Billerica, as hubby works in Andover. What are the schools like in Billerica? Would it be easier to move to another town, or cheaper? We've found an apartment complex that we liked and it's convenient to some friends of mine. Just wondering how people like living in that area. I'm a Cape Codder by birth and have always lived in small towns.

Any suggestions??

Thanks!!!

[septimus]

Howie Carr described Billerica best "Somerville with trees" (before Somerville became chic).

[aomething]

That still doesn't do much for me. Where is Somerville in relation to Billerica?

[airedaly]

Howie Carr is a fresh-mouthed radio talk host. His comment was mean. Somerville is a city near Boston. Billerica is a town north of Burlington, south of Lowell. There has been a lot of new building in Billerica and there are some nice "country" areas, but it has Rtes 3 & 3a running through it, with congestion and traffic and lots of people. It used to be quiet - I lived there many years ago and enjoyed it. I think there are still a few families that run the town and there have been some political scandals about building permits, etc. It's a good location if you commute to Andover. The schools are OK. The housing prices have gone higher in recent years and the housing stock is mixed. You should spend some time in the town and see what areas are more appealing to you. There are a couple of elementary schools; it's best to check them out before you decide where to live in Billerica. You can find test scores and other school info online.

[aomething]

Thankyou airedaly. I will do just that. We have a showing this weekend on our condo, so we will take the time to travel and see the area. Husband works in Andover and said he likes parts of Billerica. I am not keen on living too close to 3 and 3A. Again, I'm a Cape Codder, where all routes are joined and easy to navigate.

We're looking to rent but not buy. We are going to save some money for a year or two and then build out near Worcester. It might be a longer commute for DH but he said that was okay, so that we are able to get the kind of house we want to spend the next 15-20 years in. I'm okay with it too then!

Thankyou again!!!

[brightdoglover]

If your kids are school-age, I think it would be wise to squeeze yourself into the Andover school district, whatever that takes. You might look at condos/housing near the Lawrence line, which is the less desirable part of Andover, but is still in the district.
I don't think Billerica is either small-townish, or particularly good for schools. There are some decent priced houses near the lake and pond areas. Be aware that smaller, more affordable houses near the river (former summer cottages) are prone to genuine flooding).
How about Tewksbury up that way? Better on every level, I think, and quite close to Andover.

[aomething]

Thankyou, we are also looking at Tewksbury and some parts of Andover. We had an offer on the condo today. Might come sooner than we think!!!

Thankyou!

[irisheyes2385]

I grew up in Billerica, and couldn't get out fast enough!

It's not bad, but it's not great either. Lots of drinking and drug use by kids there, and lots of "townies". It's a town with lots of blue collar people and most are down-to-earth and friendly, but there is a lot of small-mindedness as well.

Everyone I know that stayed are either working in construction or landscaping, while those that went to college seem to have moved on. (I am in my 20's)

I would still choose Billerica over Tewksbury, because Billerica has the better schools and less budget problems.

[aomething]

Originally Posted by irisheyes2385

I grew up in Billerica, and couldn't get out fast enough!

It's not bad, but it's not great either. Lots of drinking and drug use by kids there, and lots of "townies". It's a town with lots of blue collar people and most are down-to-earth and friendly, but there is a lot of small-mindedness as well.

Everyone I know that stayed are either working in construction or landscaping, while those that went to college seem to have moved on. (I am in my 20's)

I would still choose Billerica over Tewksbury, because Billerica has the better schools and less budget problems.

Thankyou. We think we have the our choice narrowed to Billerica. But, I was told by my mother that a friend of hers has a family member who has a house for rent in Tewksbury. I would rather have a house. We have a 5 yr old and he's never had a back yard to play in. It would be nice. (sigh**). Oh well. We have the condo under agreement, inspection is this weekend and we need to make sure that the closing date is decided on (still up in the air, not sure why). We need to have a place to live before Christmas to register son for school in January.

Kinda stressful - Christmas, Santa Claus and then packing! Yikes! Maybe my list to Santa can be a few elves to pack the house while I sleep??

[Valerie C]

Wow congratulations on getting your condo under agreement, especially since it's been on since July, and especially at this time of year--Good for you!! It's great to be able to rent awhile to figure out where you want to make your long-term home. Working in Andover, there are so many nice towns nearby, especially if you want that small-town feel that's off the beaten path. If you've got your heart set on Billerica, it's a non-issue but the areas of Georgetown or Groveland area might be worth considering, and you can do all back-roads to Andover and still be near shopping on 114/Middleton, etc.