Need the real truth on the area (Alexandria, Manassas: real estate, to rent)

[Sporting712]

I've done lots of reading on this site and seem to keep coming back to the same things, so i figured I'd post my own question.

I currently live in Rhode Island. I am finishing my Master's Degree in Boston in Political Science. I would like to move to the DC area to find a job, not specifically live in DC, rather in MD, VA, or WV. I don't want to rent, much rather just own a home. At most right now I would say 275k. I have done a little reading on the MARC and VRE, and after using the commuter rail everyday to get to Boston, this sounds like my best bet. I'm looking for a suburb, nearby to one of the rail lines. I don't really care which state I'm in, or how long the train ride is, could be the furtherest stop. I don't necessarily have to live with my back to the train station, short drive is ok. Also I'm wondering how bad the winters get. I would assume they would not nearly be as bad (cold, and as much snow) as here in New England.

Any help would be much appreciated.

[roanoker 4]

The DC area is a great place to live and work, if you can afford the outrageous real estate prices and don't mind the archaic rail transportation system. The VRE in northern VA goes down to the Fredericksburg area from DC and also out to the Manassas area. Maryland has some commuter rail but I don't think it goes out too far and is probably as inadequate as Virginias set up. If I were moving to that area of the state I would try to find something like a condo closer to DC and the METRO rail system in Alexandria or similar. Make your life as easy as possible and do your homework before you move!!
Good Luck!!