Looking for a town between Vernon and Madison - 350k Max budget (White Meadow Lake: renting)

[msgolightly19]

I've been scouring the threads for over a year - and I'm sure I'm going to get many of the same suggestions that I've read - but I figured I would ask in case something new comes up.

I'd much rather a 30/45 minute commute for both of us than a very short commute for one and a long one for the other. I get that might not be possible - but moving to Vernon or the surrounding areas is not an option.

Where are you coming from? Currently renting in Florham Park.
Why are you moving? Buying a home.
Where will you be working? I work in Vernon; my partner works in Madison.

Will you buy or rent? Buy
What is your budget? 350k is max-ish.
What kind of place are you looking for? 3 bedroom, 2 bath - relatively decent shape - nice yard.

Will anyone (spouse, children, pets) be moving with you? Spouse and dog.
Do you need/want good public schools? need good public schools.

Briefly describe the kind of neighborhood you'd like to live in:
We are in our early thirties and will be having children soon - close-knit isn't necessary, but we'd like to be friendly with neighbors. We'd like walkable a neighborhood - sidewalks aren't necessary but we'd like to see neighbors while we walk our dog. Diverse neighborhood is ideal.

List three things that are important to you in order of importance.
safety, some sort of downtown, and I suppose family oriented? This was tough to narrow down.

Our top pick is Denville. While we like White Meadow Lake in Rockaway, we aren't too sure about it. We like Boonton, although I haven't heard many positive things about the school system.

Any advice is helpful. Thanks!

[captne76]

At first I thought, then White Meadow Lake in Rockaway Township hit me too. I lived there over a decade and worked in Vernon, yes it's like a 40 to 45 minute drive basically peaceful country roads.
Denville 2nd choice, yes you are on the right track. Boonton Township yes.
White Meadow Lake has the local country club etc, great town and you could commute to NYC if you had to, I did a while.

[pinkydapimp]

Originally Posted by captne76

At first I thought, then White Meadow Lake in Rockaway Township hit me too. I lived there over a decade and worked in Vernon, yes it's like a 40 to 45 minute drive basically peaceful country roads.
Denville 2nd choice, yes you are on the right track. Boonton Township yes.
White Meadow Lake has the local country club etc, great town and you could commute to NYC if you had to, I did a while.

Dont have a suggestion but wanted to second this. You may not work in NYC now. However, having that option can be huge career wise.

[MaverickDD]

Have you considered Jefferson Township?
• You get a lot for your money there.
• Schools are good.
• Taxes reasonable for NJ standards.