Other options similar to Cobble Creek (in Tannersville) and Milford (York: ski resort, real estate)

[mtpaper]

We're empty nesters, moving from NW New York (so we're familiar with snow and cold).

We work from home and are assuming that will continue (need fast internet); alternatively I'd have to go to NYC periodically. At least, we're making that assumption.

We plan to rent for a year before buying -

So far, we consistently like Cobble Creek Estates (the older portion) and Milford.

We prefer Milford because we could find a community with a lake (assuming grandkids of the future might like that). And Milford's taxes are probably lower.

We like Cobble Creek Estates near Tannersville outlet because it feels right and seems like it has more accessible grocery shopping.

We do not socialize, but do go out to dinner once or twice a month.

Any suggestions for alternative towns or communities (as east as possible) that would have the feel of Milford or Cobble Creek Estates?

Thank you !

[fisheye]

I live within two to three miles from Cobble Creek Estates. I do not live in the development - so I cannot tell you about the dues and amenities. I can tell you that it is one of the better developments in our county. I can also tell you that it is close to shopping. Traffic, with roadwork, accidents, the ski resort and the Crossings, can get very heavy (not for your back road that the development is on). I generally shop in Mount Pocono because of the traffic. Tannersville and Bartonsville can be a real challenge on the wrong days.

Renting, before you buy, is always as great idea. You get to see if the area is for you. We have been at our current location for over thirty five years.

By the way, you mention that you are from NW NY; have you considered north central PA? It might be closer to your relation. On the other hand; you might move into the gas fracking area.

[mtpaper]

Hello fisheye

We do not have any relatives or connections to Northwest NY; we only moved here for the public school system, and now, with both kids out of high school, we have no interest in staying. Our relatives are closer to NYC.

Our taxes are VERY high because of the schools; now that we do not have kids in school, we're trying to decrease to about $5000/yr for school and property.

[Gettingouttahere]

You might like the area around Delaware Water Gap - it's as far east as you can get. Near the borough is Cherry Valley, which is gorgeous. No communities, no lake, but really gorgeous. And it's close to everywhere and has a nice vibe.

[fisheye]

Originally Posted by mtpaper

Hello fisheye

We do not have any relatives or connections to Northwest NY; we only moved here for the public school system, and now, with both kids out of high school, we have no interest in staying. Our relatives are closer to NYC.

Our taxes are VERY high because of the schools; now that we do not have kids in school, we're trying to decrease to about $5000/yr for school and property.

I don’t know whether or not you can pull off paying $5K or less in taxes in the Cobble Creek development. Some of those houses are pretty pricy and the taxes would also be expensive.

I also agree that the Cherry Valley area is gorgeous. But; I have no idea what is available?

You also might want to check out the area around Mount Bethel and Portland. They would make your commute to NYC even easier.

Do you have Google Earth or MSNBC’s MapQuest? They are useful programs to explore areas that you might be interested in buying or renting. After you find a property that you are interested in you can come back and ask our opinion. Hopefully somebody that is more familiar with Cobble Creek will eventually reply about the development.

Good luck!

[ff18wife]

Sounds like you would definitely like the Milford area. There is shopping/dining around here although no big name restaurants. Local stuff, but still good. A lot of lake communities as well. Check out Shohola/Dingman area too. Same area, just a little further from shopping/dining. Not more than 30 mins. We're in Shohola and also head out to Honesdale for dining/shopping occasionally. You can definitely get under 5K for taxes in Milford/Shohola/Dingman area depending on what size property/house you are looking for. We are under and we have 4+ acres with a 3200 sq ft log home. Can't get that in NJ or NY. Good luck with your search!!

[ff18wife]

Originally Posted by ff18wife

Sounds like you would definitely like the Milford area. There is shopping/dining around here although no big name restaurants. Local stuff, but still good. A lot of lake communities as well. Check out Shohola/Dingman area too. Same area, just a little further from shopping/dining. Not more than 30 mins. We're in Shohola and also head out to Honesdale for dining/shopping occasionally. You can definitely get under 5K for taxes in Milford/Shohola/Dingman area depending on what size property/house you are looking for. We are under and we have 4+ acres with a 3200 sq ft log home. Can't get that in NJ or NY. Good luck with your search!!

Also, 3 malls within an hour drive. Not too bad.

[mtpaper]

@ff18wife
I really liked Milford - it has a bus to NYC, as well as the option for taking the traiin from Port Jervis in NY. A realtor thought that Pocono Mountain Woodland Lakes would be good for us.

My husband is concerned that there are no restaurants within 20 minutes; we're fine with local fare rather than chains, but like something more upscale than fried mozz sticks..

And he's concerned that he'll have a hard time grocery shopping (he's accustomed to having lots of options within 20 minutes, including warehouse-style).

We're looking for about 2000-2500 sq ft, for about $100/sqft.


****

I can't find Cherry Valley - is that the name of a town or a community of homes? ? The only Cherry Valley I found for Pennsylvania is far west, is Butler County

[fisheye]

I can't find Cherry Valley - is that the name of a town or a community of homes? ? The only Cherry Valley I found for Pennsylvania is far west, is Butler County

Cherry Valley Road runs between Saylorsburg, on the west side, and Delaware Water Gap (the borough) on the eastern side. It is just south of Stroudsburg. It is a very scenic drive with many nice stone houses. But; I have no idea if there is any real estate available in that area - you would have to contact a real estate agent.

Have you tried the Goggle ’Earth” program or MSNBC’s MapQuest? What I really like about either program is that you can actually calculate your mileage to your friends, family, work or stores from possible new home locations. You should have a rough idea of how many trips you will make - you could then do the math. You can also spot potential distractions with these programs - like a quarry or airport that is operating close to your ’new’ property line (that you could not see through the trees). I know that the Earth program also gives elevation - this could be a big factor in a winter commute to work or stores.

I’m glad you are doing your homework. It is a big decision and I hope that we can help.

[mtpaper]

I use Google maps quite a bit for getting directions, as well as Google Earth to see what it looks like

There is no way for me to estimate how many trips I'll make....that's a big part of my problem. I've been fortunate to work at home for the past 22 years, but my crystal ball is broken and I don't know what the next 20 years will bring.....

If I play it safer (in terms of proximity to work options) and live closer to NYC, then I'm increasing my overhead (dramatically) and will HAVE to bring in $$$$ to cover the additional costs.

If I go farther west, and I have to go to NYC a few times a week, then it will be very miserable.

If I do Milford, and have to commute for a few days a week, or a few months a year, it won't be pretty but I think it's the safest option.

Ideally, if I choose Milford, and my income decreases (but is not obliterated), then I think I'll be fine until it's time to retire.

Thanks for the detail on Cherry Valley - I didn't realize it was a road (rather than a town or community).

We looked at Easton recently, but didn't feel any connection (whereas we do for Milford and also for Cobble Creek Estates in Tannersville)

Hopefully, we'll be able to rent in Milford or Cobble Creek, and get our bearings.... we're in the last throes of getting our current house ready to list. Hopefully that will go smoothly....