Any good neighborhoods for under 300k? (Manassas, Leesburg: equity, foreclosures, work)

[TCJohnson]

Hey there,

I am looking for a townhouse or, preferably, a single family home in Northern Virginia. I work in too offices, one in Vienna on Rt 7 and the other in Sterling, right off Rt 28. My price limit is 300k.

Anybody got any suggestions?

This is becoming so agrivating!

[claremarie]

I don't think you're going to find a SFH within reasonable commuting distance of Vienna for under $300K. Even a townhouse would be hard to find at that price, especially if safety or schools are an issue.

[Tone509]

From recent threads here, I'd say your best shot would be in Manassas. However, there would be tradeoffs. Of course, there are also short sales and foreclosures to consider.

How about leapfrogging Loudoun County into West Virginia? I'm being serious. Depending on where you lived out there, it would be a relatively straight shot down Route 7 to your office.

[TCJohnson]

Schools are not an issue...yet. What my hope is to buy a house and then, by the time I have a kid that is ready for grade school (7 or 8 years down the road) then use the equity in my starter house for something better. : cross fingers :

What towns would you recommend in West Virginia?

[EuroExpat]

Have you looked at Leesburg? Plenty of townhouses for less than $300K. Even some SFH for that price, not sure if they're short sales.. The commute from W. Va would stink. Unless, of course, you like leaving by 5am.

[mimitche]

If you're willing to deal with short sales or REO and sweat equity there are a few SFH in Countryside (20165, near 28 and 7) right now that are listed under $300k; well below assessed value.

[Tone509]

Thanks for the Leesburg reference, EuroExpat. I had assumed that a fairly popular area would be selling homes for over $300K. But when I think about it, I can see how THs would be going for under that amount, especially in today's market. So maybe no leapfrogging would be required.

TC, I am not knowledgeable at all about West Virginia options... but I'm sure there are plenty of people on that state forum who are.

[EuroExpat]

Actually now that I'm thinking about Loudoun County and you'd be willing to put up with the drive, Lovettsville has some brand new houses for about $300K. Cute houses, not much of a yard, no entertainment options but the nature is gorgeous.

[TCJohnson]

Thanks for the advice.

[TCJohnson]

Originally Posted by mimitche

If you're willing to deal with short sales or REO and sweat equity there are a few SFH in Countryside (20165, near 28 and 7) right now that are listed under $300k; well below assessed value.

Tomorrow a realtor is taking me to look at some townhomes in Countryside...but I am beginning to hear some not so good things about the neighborhood.