Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
I think I will have to plan a second visit at some point to spend more time in these areas. I don't mind commuting as long as snow removal is prompt during the winter and I could get to work just as easily on snowy days. I just want great schools and close shopping. My husband wants square footage above 2500-3000, so we will probably have to compromise somewhere.
What is the budget in terms of a price range? Where in Northern VA would you be moving from?
Last edited by ckhthankgod; 09-12-2013 at 07:49 PM..
It is down Central Avenue from shopping at Mohawk Commons or Northway Shopping Center, Crossgates Mall isn't too far away, it is within a reasonable commute to Amsterdam and is in the good South Colonie SD.
Last edited by ckhthankgod; 09-12-2013 at 09:06 PM..
I do think you'll find a fair amount of newer homes 2200 sq ft and up in the areas I mentioned. There are several homes like ck posted and a newer house will probably be more in the 360-400k range. You will be sacrificing land for convenience. There are homes in nisky/colonie with larger lots but they are more in the 500k price range. Either way money will go way further compared to DC area. Depending on which county, taxes on that type of home would likely range from $6k-12k.
I'm not sure about snow removal since I've only been here a few months myself but I'd imagine as long as you're not far from the major highways those probably stay pretty clear.
Also, for example of type of home/ location, look up shinnecock hills dr colonie. Not sure if any are for sale but they are a good example of what I'm talking about.
It is down Central Avenue from shopping at Mohawk Commons or Northway Shopping Center, Crossgates Mall isn't too far away, it is within a reasonable commute to Amsterdam and is in the good South Colonie SD.
I'm not sure about snow removal since I've only been here a few months myself but I'd imagine as long as you're not far from the major highways those probably stay pretty clear.
IMO, coming from much snowier western NYS, snow removal in the Capital District is pretty crummy. OTOH, having traveled through northern VA in what locals considered a snowstorm, it's way better than snow removal there. The Albany area doesn't get that much snow. It snows about 35 days a winter and deposits about 60 inches of snow (compared to Buffalo with an average of 61 snowy days and 95 inches of snow). A couple times a winter there will be a "blizzard" which is NOT to be confused with real blizzards like they have out on the Great Plains. It's just a lot of snow in a relatively short period of time (Albany declares a "snow emergency" for 6 inches of snow in 24 hours, which makes WNYers laugh but at least they don't close down the schools for 2 inches of snow like VA does. It's all relative! )
Invest in an AWD vehicle (Subarus come in hatch backs, sedans, station wagons, and SUVs), take it easy (don't speed), and leave plenty of room between you and the car ahead, and you should be fine.
It is down Central Avenue from shopping at Mohawk Commons or Northway Shopping Center, Crossgates Mall isn't too far away, it is within a reasonable commute to Amsterdam and is in the good South Colonie SD.
I found out that the commute to Amsterdam from this home is in the 30-40 minute range and even better, you can do it without taking the Thruway. So, it can be a toll free drive and it could be an area to look into.
We live in Saratoga, in the rural area, moved up from NJ 6 years ago. We have lived in many areas, as military family and really enjoy the Saratoga area. It may not be what you are used to, but the area does have a lot to offer as the OP have mentioned. Even though we are in a rural area, the snow is cleared quickly and nicely. The Schuylerville School District has a good reputation. You might check out: www.greatschools.org to help in your search.
Also besides searching real estate for Saratoga Springs, check the surrounding area, like Wilton, Northunderland, Moreau, Schuylerville, etc. Driving to shopping for us is about 9 miles. To go to Clifton Park shopping it is 20 miles, BUT you don't have the traffic congestion you may have had in northern VA. Best of luck in your search.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
)
