Ricmond vs. Hampton Roads (Norfolk, Richmond: condo, crimes, house)

[nursenessie]

We are visiting in July to both the Richmond area and Hampton Roads. We hope to relocate next summer (July 2009), so we are visiting now to make a decision between the two areas.

Anyone have any comparisons between the two? Jobs, cost of living, etc?

Also, would you suggest just hopping in the car and driving around the differnet areas or actually contacting a realtor to see if they can help us out? Not sure if they would be interested, as our move wouldn't be for another year...

Any ideas? Suggestions?

Thanks,

Vanessa

[lisadoni]

I grew up in Richmond and now reside in Va Beach. They each have their pros and cons so it sort of depends on what you're looking for. Because the beach has a lot of military the housing market is a little better, but you could probably get more home for your $ around Richmond. They both have some very good schools. The beach has both a zoo (norfolk) and an aquarium nearby. I think the downtown area of Richmond tends to have more dangerous crimes. Richmond has a very active local artists scene. Most of the culture around here is in Norfolk, but there is a new performing arts center that is very nice.

Speaking to a realtor before you come might be helpful because they could tell you some neighborhoods that they think you might like and then you can check them out.

I enjoy living here because there are so many different areas. There is the area by the bay where I live that has some nice local restaurants and great neighbors, there is town center, your basic suburban areas, and then of course the beach.

[jhrichmond]

I live in the Richmond area and have a beach home in Va Beach. You can definately get a lot more house for your money in Richmond. In the Hampton Roads area, homes in neighborhoods I would consider safe begin in the $300's, whereas in Richmond, they would begin in the $200's. Traffic in Va Beach is horrendous compared to the Richmond area. No decent Realtor would turn you away a year before you are ready to buy. It took us a year to find our condo at the beach and our Realtor worked diligently, knowing that we may never find something we wanted to buy.

[Tej147]

Richmond! Let's go! Richmond! Let's go!