[CityChic9]

Hi,
Wondering if people could comment on the difference between living in West End vs. West Hartford. I like the city feel of West End, not sure there is the same city feel in West Hartford. Is there a significant downside to buying in West End because it's Hartford? I do not have kids, do not care about school systems myself, understand how it would effect resale. Also don't want to live somewhere where it's all about the PTA meetings. Love the Victorians in the West End. What about the difference in vibes, if there is a difference?

[7 Wishes]

Being in Hartford itself, the housing in the West End is less expensive than even the adjacent parts of West Hartford. As for other differences, I'll leave that to others who would know more than I.

[JayCT]

The West End is more urban in feel than West Hartford. Homes tend to be on smaller lots in the West End. The apartment buildings tend to have less green space around them. There is more on street parking and less of street. That maybe what you are noticing about the difference. Jay

[AmyBergquist]

You will get more house for your money in the West End than you will for a similar house in West Hartford. It's hard to find similar housing stock in West Hartford, around Elizabeth Park would be somewhat the same because the areas were developed around the same timeframe, though West Hartford about 10-15 years later.

Property taxes for the amount of house you get in the West End will be lower than a similar house in West Hartford. You will pay higher car taxes and car insurance in Hartford though because the mill rate is higher and it's a city so incident rates are higher, hence higher insurance rates.

Resale in the West End is typically good if the house you are selling has been generally well maintained. About 25-30 houses and condos sell a year in the neighborhood. Prices range from the low $200Ks to $1million+. It's a varied market which is actually nice, there's something for everyone.

We've lived in the West End for 7 years now and really like it. It's walkable, Elizabeth Park is great, the neighbors are friendly, each house is unique. You'd most likely find similar things in West Hartford, the houses may not be as unique though.