Commute from Centerville to Fairfax, Burke to Fairfax (Arlington, Centreville: apartment, condo)

[dekaykim]

Hi,

I am considering buying a house sometime soon in NOVA area.

My work place is at the intersection between I-495 and Arlington Blvd in Fairfax. (around the boundary of falls church and fairfax)

I am considering moving to Centreville or Burke where I can get a relatively more decent home at my price range ($300,000 - $350,000).

I just wonder how long it will take to commute from both places. Anyone has similar experience?

Also, I would appreciate if you could suggest other good places. School district is an important fact to consider.

Thanks!

[finini01]

I would suggest avoiding an area where you would have to drive on I-66 at rush hour(s) It is very busy, even if you get into an HOV lane. It's not that far (to Centreville), but it would get annoying (probably 30-45 mins to go all of 12-15 miles). I did some apartment/condo searching in Centreville recently: it is pretty bland. Burke, which I haven't been to, appears nicer (and is geographically closer to your job).

I can't really help you with schools as I have no experience in that matter around here, though I've heard Fairfax County schools are some of the best in the country, regardless of where you go.