New Job in South Plainfield, NJ - Need Relocation Advice (Westfield: real estate, new home)

[vanessac]

Hi guys,

My husband got a job in South Plainfield, NJ, and we are relocating from San Diego this summer. Looking at charter schools for my two kids who will be in 9th and 10th grades in the fall.

Trying to find good towns-- nice, affordable, good schools. I see there are not a lot of charters to pick from. Looking at Central New Jersey College Prep Charter in North Brunswick.

Budget for house is $350K to $500K. Want a newer home. Am I dreaming? ;-) I've checked real estate sites and can't find a lot of new home developments in that price range.

Have no idea what the culture is like. Right now we live in an ultra-religious, Republican part San Diego County and that is the opposite of what we're looking for.

Any advice would be appreciated!

Vanessa

[Suluki11]

There alot of great options in towns nearby that offer top-rated school districts without the need of a charter or private school. I would recommend Westfield, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, and possibly Cranford. For Westfield, you may get a smaller house or have some compromises, but you will be in one of the top-rated school districts in the State.

[vanessac]

The reason I am partial to charters is because they are smaller and my son was bullied at a regular, large school. He is an intellectual/techie/nerdy type and prime target for the jocks/"popular" kids. I know that kids can get bullied anywhere, but so far, he has not been picked on once since he started at the new (charter) school in Sept. He's a cute kid, so that helps.

He would probably do well in a high school that has a strong technology program where he could meet kids like him.

Thank you for responding. I'll look into those areas.

Vanessa

[DawnRuete]

Bridgewater is another desirable town here in Central New Jersey. It has a blue ribbon school system.