Relocating from the Tradition area of Port St. Lucie (Jacksonville: rent, HOA)

[hsingmommy]

My husband is taking a job at a dealership in Jacksonville, so we will be moving up to the area after the new year. We know nothing about Jacksonville or the surrounding areas. We have two boys, 9th and 4th grade, and I homeschool them. We're trying to figure out the best place to live...no more than 30 minute commute for my husband preferably, decent lot size, decent amenities, safe, close to shopping, etc.

We have been spoiled by the Tradition area of PSL, but we're only renting, so we haven't had to deal with the HOA headaches. We don't mind HOA, but want our boys to be boys, too...basketball hoop in yard, fishing in lakes, etc.

Any suggestions? We know Nocatee has a lot to offer, but I'm wondering the costs of the HOA and CDD fees. We know it offers way more than Tradition, too.

My husband's boss suggested St. John's County, north of 210.

Again, any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

[hsingmommy]

Anyone? The more we look, the more we like Nocatee, but open to other suggestions. My husband will be working near 295 and Atlantic, so commute does matter.

[Florida2014]

If you don't like a HOA community Nocatee isn't the best choice for you. Most all of the communities around the 210 corridor are covenant controlled though so if you're set on SJC you might want to consider areas further south.

People pick SJC because of the schools, so if you're home schooling your kids you could consider Duval Co as well where you could get more bang for your buck in terms of a house. Where is the dealership?

[hsingmommy]

The dealership is off 295 and Atlantic...Arlington area.

What neighborhoods in Duval County are worth considering? We don't mind HOA as long as it's reasonable and they aren't super big tyrants. With growing boys, family friendly is key, and well, safety is of great value since I'm home most of the time.

[Florida2014]

I will let others chime in here as I'm admittedly not a Duval expert. If you post what you're willing to spend it might help folks narrow down an area for you.

[hsingmommy]

Honestly, budget hasn't been decided...really depends on what we're getting for the money. I'd guess $700,000 max, but if we found what we like for less, then great.

[843904]

Originally Posted by hsingmommy

Honestly, budget hasn't been decided...really depends on what we're getting for the money. I'd guess $700,000 max, but if we found what we like for less, then great.

Check your inbox.

[JacksonvilleNative]

I would recommend renting until you get a feel for the area.

But rent or buy, with work at 295 and Atlantic, East Arlington would be a good place to start. Look in these zip codes. 32225, 32246, 32256, 32257. You should find a good mix of HOA and non-HOA neighborhoods.

[hsingmommy]

We're renting now, and we've rented this house for four years by the time we move up there...finishing up our 4th year now. I really only want to move once...but we will see.