From Florida to Leesburg, Ashburn..advice (Reston: houses, neighborhoods, schools)

[crystallake.fam]

My husband, myself with 3 young kids ages 1-4 are strongly considering moving from south Florida back to northern VA. We have both lived there before right out of college and now for schools, closer to family and a few other reasons want to move back. But, we need some advice on an area where we could get a house around 550,000 in a good neighborhood for the kids, I know basically the schools in the area are all good, especially compared to FL Any advice on good or bad reasons for Ashburn, Brambleton, also considering Leesburg. I would most likely work at a hospital and my husband might be working in Reston. Thanks to all.

[cdmurphy]

Brambleton would be great for you! There are tons of kids in that age bracket. Here's a photo tour that I posted recently. It's a wonderful community, and we've been very happy here.

[Ashburnite]

Any of the areas in Ashburn would be convenient to Reston and a few hospitals. Homes are currently in your price range, too. Since you have kids you might first consider the major developments in the area that include swimming pools, tot lots (playgrounds) and walking trails. Some of the smaller communities do not offer these features. Find a house and a neighborhood you like and you're all set!

[GoHokiesGo]

I agree with the others. You should be able to find plenty of houses in that price range, and I don't really think there's a bad area in Ashburn or Leesburg. Tour some houses, see what neighborhoods offer the amenities you want and snag up the place you like best. For a family with kids, I don't think you can go wrong with Ashburn.

[michgc]

Agreed. Ashburn is a very nice, family-oriented place. The only negative is if you are commuting into DC, but since you are not it sounds like a good fit. Bring your scarf and gloves! :-)