Relocating to Northern VA soon... (Alexandria, Manassas: to rent, credit, house)

[wingman7000]

I'm really glad that I found this forum. I have read through some of the posts and they have all been very helpful. I am more than likely going to be relocating to take a job in DC around May. I've never been there, but it really seems like a nice place.

I've been looking around and am interested in knowing where a good place to buy a home would be. I'm a first-time homebuyer and would like to take advantage of the tax credit this year and have been looking around the Manassas, Woodbridge, Springfield, or Alexandria areas. I'm just not sure exactly what to expect from the neighborhoods or the commute from each area. I usually commute about 45-1 hr at my current job using public transportation so that doesn't bother me much. Any suggestions or additional pointers?

Thanks!

[VEIK]

Manassas and Woodbridge - easy over an hr commute, one way.
Alexandria - much better choice, its a whole lot closer to DC.
And some parts are serviced by Metro and metrobuses.

[ChristineVA]

What will your work hours be. Makes a difference. Also, where will you be in DC?

[Fairfax Mom]

Just remember the salaries are high here but the cost of living is VERY high.

A 1 hr commute around here is considered short!

I would wait to buy because home prices are predicted to drop even further. I always suggest to rent first for at least one year - it takes about one year to really know what an area is like.

[oneasterisk]

Also let us know what your price range would be. You'll have to spend more money if you want to live closer into the city. What area in DC will you be working?

[wingman7000]

Thanks for your replies.

We probably won't buy until around the end of summer, that way we can get somewhat of a feel for the areas.

Where in DC? -- I will be near the Capitol for the job.

As far as price range, I know that the closer you are to the city, the more expensive it is. That is why it doesn't bother me to be a bit further out if I can get more for the money. I guess my question is, where can I get the best bang for the buck as far as housing is concerned?

Work Hours -- I know there is a flex schedule option, but what exactly that entails I'm not fully sure. I know the HR rep said he works from 6:30-2:30. If I could do something like that, it could help I think, but again that's why I'm here asking ya'll. LOL

Thanks

[claremarie]

Most people want a short commute, a safe neighborhood, a 3-4 BR house in decent repair, and good schools. The more you can compromise on these points, the cheaper your house will be. That's really the bottom line. Look further out, consider a smaller house that needs a lot of work, and/or be willing to live in a mediocre school pyramid.

[irisheyes13]

It would be helpful to know a bit more info (such as are schools important, SFH or TH okay and how large of a place you need) but from what you have posted so far, I would suggest areas of Springfield or Alexandria with a focus on access to the metro. Not as expensive as the closer in places but easy access to the blue line from Van Dorn and Franconia and not far from the yellow at King Street..
The metro homepage has great maps and a trip planner to give you some ideas of time and expense for your commute.
Welcome, it is a great area..

[Yankeesfan]

Stick to Fairfax (or Alexandria, ifyou can afford it) rather than Prince William. You can take the Blue or Orange line to Capitol South.

Metro - Rail - Maps - Rail/Google Map

Is "we" a couple or a family with children?

Check whether your employer offers a subsidy for taking public transit.

[irisheyes13]

Originally Posted by Yankeesfan

Stick to Fairfax (or Alexandria, ifyou can afford it) rather than Prince William. You can take the Blue or Orange line to Capitol South.

Metro - Rail - Maps - Rail/Google Map

Is "we" a couple or a family with children?

Check whether your employer offers a subsidy for taking public transit.

Thanks for posting the metro maps Yankeesfan. I had meant to do that!