[ridenstyl]

Hi,
We are faced with the possibility of relocating from Ohio to Michigan. My husband may be relocated to Warren or Sterling Heights. We drove up to check the area out. We have 2 boys in 5th and 8th grades so public schools are very important. When driving around we saw alot of developments. We wondered are there any nice, safe areas where we could purchase a home with 1-2 acres of land that have a reasonable drive time to Sterling Heights or Warren? We visited on a Sunday and realize traffic is a big thing to think about especially during the work week. Thanks for your thoughts and help!!

[MTUCache]

1-2 acres is a pretty big lot size for a middle-ring suburb like Sterling Heights, but things thin out pretty quickly as you go north.

Utica/Shelby are similarly dense to Sterling Heights, although generally "newer". There are some larger lots in the area, but they'll tend to be pricey as you get close to M59. North of there though, is where things start to calm down a bit. Washington Township has had a lot of development in the past 10 years or so (again, can get pricey, but it all depends on what you're looking for).

Anywhere up near Romeo, over east towards New Haven or Richmond is going to be wide open farm country. Lots of large lots and fields. Some new houses, probably in the lot-sizes you're looking for. You'd probably be looking at a 30 minute commute to Sterling Heights, depending on where you're at in each city and whether you're taking 53 or 94 into the area. The only thing place you'll really want to avoid during rush-hour times will be M-59.

Schools will be another matter. I don't have any experience with these area's schools, although I'd expect them to be in the "average" range. You'll likely have to do quite a bit more research into this area of your move.

[ridenstyl]

Thanks for everyone's help and input so far. I appreciate it and will check out these areas!