Moving to VA--Where to Start? (Roanoke, Abingdon: fit in, sale, to rent)

[TaraK429]

My husband, daughter and I are looking to relocate to VA. We are currently in NJ and the prices of well--everything, are just way too high. It's too 'fast' here for us, and we want to settle down in VA. I am in the medical field, and my husband does pools and pool construction. We want to live in a nice, family oriented town. We would both be willing to communte up to an hour. Crime and Safety is my NUMBER ONE concern. I want to live in a very safe town. We want to have a big family, and we want to feel compfortable with them playing outside, like we did growing up. At first, we are looking to rent, but eventually buy a house, up to/around $325k. We looked in MD, and then DE, and that was much easier than VA becuase they were much smaller in size. I've hear good things baout Abirgeon (Spelling? It's in Washington County), how is that area? I'd especially like to hear the areas to avoid. ANY suggestions would be much, much appreciated! It would give me a great starting point

[TaraK429]

Anyone? Anyone? Where in VA do YOU live? Do you like it? Hate it?

[RSMTN]

I believe you must mean Abingdon in SW Virginia, almost on the TN state line. It's a great place to raise a family. Crime, compared to where you are now is nothing. As for safety I don't believe you would be afraid to walk the streets alone at night.

I was raised there and plan to move back pending the sale of our house where we live now.

You should not have any problem finding a job in the medical field.....although you do not say exactly what you do in that field. Swiming pool construction on the other hand I would guess would be a little slow in the current economy.

Do a Google search on Abingdon and you will get a lot of information.

[MySkreenName01]

hi tarak492

my family also is looking to leave nj for the same reasons. just like yourself, we have looked down the same path and have not had any luck yet. anyway good luck with your search.

[TaraK429]

No luck as in what?

[Flamingo13]

Just a tip: spend some time reading the forums so you get a "feel" for areas.

Honestly: you can't just pick a state and ask folks where to live.

Do some research on temps., crime, schools, housing costs, etc. Do your homework first, then folks are glad to help with more info.

[TaraK429]

Oh, I've absolutely been researching, but I really don't know where to start, or where ANY community would be that would fit into what I listed. Thanks for the advice though!

[matthews1965]

I live in Roanoke Va and spend a great deal of time at Smith Mtn Lake. I am a Roanoke native and believe this to be one of the best places in VA to raise a family. I live in FANTASTIC greater Raleigh Court where the children are safe to walk to school alone and venture to Grandin Village to Pops ice cream (complete with board games to play while there) and the classic Grandin theatre etc. It's a walk around neighborhood - and has maintained the family core, as it was when I grew up, and when I raised my children here. There are many wonderful neighborhoods, parks, activities etc. all over our valley, and once you research the schools you will enjoy finding the perfect niche for your family. Our city is very diverse and our market area offers a grand selection of different cuisines and entertainment. Then you can, if you like water activities, explore the lake (we have great state parks which offer all a family could desire for a reasonable outing) I understand the daunting task of researching a new state - so I am going on the record as a HUGE fan of my hometown!! Good luck!!!

[TaraK429]

Thanks Matthew! I really appreciate the suggestion. Your town sounds awesome, and a lot of exactly what I'm looking for! I will absolutely be looking into Roanoke!

[MySkreenName01]

Originally Posted by TaraK429

No luck as in what?

we have looked into md,de, and now va. and have not found the right place. our biggest problem is finding work before we make the move.