Whats the area around Kennett Square like? (Lancaster: townhouse, safe neighborhood)

[lialleycat]

I'm considering going after a position around Kennett Square. I have yet to visit that area, being more familiar with areas closer to Philly or Lancaster. I'd be looking to be able to buy a nice house in a safe neighborhood with a little property (at least half an acre) where I can grow my own veggies and perhaps have a few chickens. Oh, and I don't want to spend over 200K. Can I find something like this within commutting distance of Kennett Square?

I was looking in the area of Lancaster because I really like the lay of the land and the housing, but this offer might be worth looking into further and I'd appreciate any input.

Thanks!

[DC Oldtimer]

It was beautiful there when I was a kid, but that was a few centuries ago and I havent been back to visit since. Close to Longwood Gardens, a wonderful place to visit.

We were always told that Kennett Square is the mushroom capital of the world. We never bothered to find out if it was really true.

[Icy Tea]

You can smell the mushrooms along route 41 just at the Delaware state line. I think Kennett Square might be a little bit away, I don't know if the smell carries there as well.
Longwood Gardens is a gorgeous place and the surrounding area is pretty nice. I'd expect property to be very expensive. Traffic is also bad, especially around rush hour and school drop off/ pick up. 200K should get you a townhouse, I'd think.

[lialleycat]

What about 30-45 mins away? Can I get land then with a small house (1br would even be fine - it's just me)? I can't do a townhouse, I have too many pets. I need some land.

[toobusytoday]

Lots of mushroom farms out that way, but it's very pretty with rolling hills and farms. I think you will be able to find something reasonably priced north and west of Kennett Square. You will want to be out of town anyway with animals. Make sure to check the zoning regulations before you buy, with the township, not the Realtor, regarding pets and farm animals and amount of area per animal.

[MamaBear41]

Liallycat,

I actually live in Kennett Square and have lived there pretty much all my life. There are areas where you can buy a decent tract of land, not necessary in the Borough if you are looking for a half and acre, but the surrounding townships: Kennett Township, New Garden, and East Marlborough offer properties with decent chunks of land. I actually lived in New Garden when I was married, I think this township offers the most value for your money right now (I'm an RE appraiser), but it also has some areas you may consider less desirable. There are some good home purchase deals to be had right now, especially if you are looking in the low to moderate price ranges.

There really isn't much crime. Personally, I live in the Borough, not in the worst neighborhood, not in the best, but police presence is excellent. We got a new police chief last year who was the long time liutenant (sp?) Biggest problems we tend to have around here are loud music complaints and some graffiti.

Do you have children? There are a few different school districts around here.
Good luck to you. Let me know if you have questions that I didn't address.

Suz

[lialleycat]

Thanks MamaBear! I didn't get the position, but I'm still looking. Luckily I do not have children, so school districts are not a concern of mine, just my animals and future pets I'm looking out for!