Apollo Beach, Riverview, Ruskin... (Tampa, Bloomingdale: new home, live in, price)

[tastigger]

I have been reading this forum for quite some time & it has given me a lot of information. Thanks all! While my husband and I are down there this weekend, we will be looking at new homes. We want to reduce our mortgage, so we are looking for under 200k. Places like Riverview, Ruskin & Apollo Beach have been front runners due to its location to the bay (we have a small sailboat) and new home communites, but I have read people turning others away from these locations. Does anyone live in these areas & can comment on positive/negatives of the south bay region?

My husband will not have to commute, and depending, I may be able to work from home as well. While we have visited in the past & like other locations (we didn't get to this area last time), we have fixed up two homes, the last being a 1910 & really want something new - we are tired of re-doing mistakes. ;-)

Any input would be appreciated -

[imguytpa]

I think it depends what you're looking for. You will have no problem finding a new home in your price range. These areas you mention are in transition from country/agricultural communities to a more suburban environment. I live in Riverview not to far from Bloomingdale/301 for about 6 months now. Everything you need is nearby. Don't expect a lot of fine dining, culture, but, it will come in time. I work in Tampa, so I find this area nice to come home to, not so much concrete etc. Bay access should not be a problem, but a decent beach is not nearby, imo. The Crosstown Expwy gives you quick access to Tampa, Ybor, Hyde Park, S Tampa, Davis Isl, Intl Mall, Airport, Westshore...I can count on 15 mins to downtown Tampa even in the AM rush. Good Luck!