Larchmont Expenses (Mamaroneck, Murray: appointed, houses, buy)

[anyhelp]

We have very little money but very much want to move to Larchmont for the schools in general and special needs services. Will 700K buy anything close to Murray Hill or Chatsworth Avenue schools? Will we feel incredibly poor? Is it possible to find someone to work by the hour to do both housework and babysitter, e.g. 30 hours per week, and what would this run? Thanks.

[bmwguydc]

There are houses in Larchmont around $700k, but the question is can you deal with the size and/or condition issues? Either they will be cottages, some of which are very quaint, older homes, or they will be mid-sized homes that have condition issues. So, it's possible to find a house in your budget range, and should not be an issue, since generally Larchmont is not as status-obsessed as some other areas in Westchester. If you like Larchmont, I'd see what's available, since you can find a great house and I doubt that you'd feel impoverished in a smaller village home.

[sallyg]

Having lived in Larchmont and having had a child at Chatsworth- I can tell you very few people live in homes purchased for under $2 million. My son had kids in his class that had homes purchased for $7 million plus. It is the norm there. If you are confident and that doesnt bother you- then you will be fine. You will be hard pressed to find a home in Chatsworth area for 700k and there may be more of a chance in Murray School area-but you may be incredibly disappointed in what you find- if you find anything at all. There is big, big money in Larchmont, particulary in the Manor- which is in the Chatsworth school vicinity. You will see people with nannies for each of their children- even if they dont work. People are very friendly, but it is hard when you don't have that kind of money. I would definitely suggest Murray Hill school- maybe a bit more "normal" and still has great reputation. Do take note that after fifth grade Larchmont schools merge w Mamaroneck schools into Hommocks Middle School.Also, Chatsworth is NOT the school to go to for a child with special needs. It is a high pressure academic cooker- even for the little guys. Many people choose Mamaroneck Ave School- which has excellent programs for students with special needs. Chatsworth only has one speech therapist for whole school of 600 kids. But all in all- it is a great school, with wonderful teachers and lots of activities and parental involvement. Best of luck to you.