Buying home with good resale value near Duke Universiy (Raleigh: best neighborhoods, crime rate)

[mamabetty]

[SIZE=2]I'm thinking of buying a second home near Duke University for my daughter to live in, maybe with a roommate while she's finishing her masters, (3 years) I'd like to know the areas near and around Duke that have good resale value and that are safe. Looking between 2k to 3k. Also, does Durham suffer from a bum rap about the crime rate or is it something to worry about? I've never felt uncomfortable while I've been there visiting so I don't understand the big deal with that stigma. Thanks for your opinions.
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[mdp_az]

The crime situation in Durham is largely a bad rap. Most of the crime, certianly the more violent crime, is largely gang-related and isolated to the east/east-central part of town. The areas around Duke have crime similar to many neighborhoods in close proximity to a university: theft, vandalism, car break-ins, etc... Crime in general in Durham has been on the decline recently. FWIW, I live in Durham and have never once felt unsafe. I also do venture into some of the sketchier areas at times, both in my car and by bike...again, never felt unsafe!

IMO, the best neighborhoods to consider are Trinity Park, Watts-Hillandale & Old West Durham.

Also, consider re-posting this question in the Raleigh-Durham forum and you'll probably get a lot better response.