ca to nh (Manchester, Nashua, Derry: house, neighborhoods, school district)

[sakmillis]

We are originally from new england area and can't wait to get back. Just like everyone else, we are having difficulty selling our house in ca. When we do we want to get to southern new hampshire, either manchester or portsmouth area, where we'll still be close to drive to boston area to visit family. Any recommendations on towns that have good schools (not just academics but extracurricular activiites), pet friendly (we love our animals and want more), and homes with lots of open land (but not too far from civilization) we still love city life too! Also we may plan to start a home based business, are there any towns we should stay away from? I know it sounds like we want it all , but it would be nice to be able to get sort of close! We want this to be our last move, my boys are in middle school and this is not making them happy! Thanks for any input!!!!

[Valerie C]

You're describing the three towns that make up the Oyster River school district.! This is one of the TOP rated districts in NH, plus UNH Durham is local (student housing becomes a non-issue!) Lee, Madbury and Durham are all convenient to the seacoast (via Rte 101), the mountains (via Rts. 101 to 93 or Rte. 125 to 16.), Boston (via Rts 101 to 93 OR 95). For nightlife, not much locally, but Dover, Portsmouth, Manchester, Nashua & Newburyport MA aren't too far...

There are still large tracts of land available, as well as newer subdivision neighborhoods. Overall a great place that is central to so much!

What kind of animals do you have/want? Ability to have livestock of some type? Are you looking for a place that has a local dog park?I know that Cal. has TONS of dog parks (but than again, it's a little bigger than NH!) There are dog parks in Derry, Portsmouth, Raymond and Rochester, NH, and I've heard that there are quite a few more that will be opening. Here's a link to the Raymond dog park (a bit outdated, but you get the idea: Riverside Bark Dog Park - Raymond, New Hampshire)

I do know that Lee is very friendly to at-home businesses, not sure on the other towns, I would imagine much would depend on what sort of business you're planning to have.

I hope this info is helpful.. If I can do some "local research" for you, just let me know!