West Side Neighborhood Advice (Madison, Verona: short sales, apartments, foreclosures)

[gobadgers]

Hello! I grew up on the east side of Madison and loved it there, but am now looking to buy a house on the west side to avoid a long commute to work. I'm not as familiar with the neighborhoods, and know that in Madison there can be quite a different feel within just a few blocks.

The homes within my price range are mostly east of McKenna, west of Verona Rd, north of McKee Rd, and south of Mineral Point (mostly south of the Beltline though)

Also, along with general advice I would appreciate your opinion on the Meadowood area, the homes have HUGE lots, and I'm very interested in one on Rae ln south of Raymond Rd.

I'm not looking for high income (since I don't have it!), but I am looking for a safe neighborhood with a low population turnover (i.e. I would like to avoid big apt buildings) so I can live somewhere that has a feel of pride of ownership and a 'good neighbor' outlook.

Thanks a lot! I really appreciate the input!

[Madtown RM]

Meadowood has some really nice affordable starter homes under $200K. There have been some very nice quality short sales and foreclosures in that neighborhood lately going for closer to $150K which is just outstanding considering the average sales price in that neighborhood in recent years. One of the good ones on Rae is no longer available but there is another one that just came on the market six days ago that the bank decided to fix up (and they're not even raising the price afterwards). Definitely worth a look:

1517 Rae Ln, Madison Property Listing: MLS# 1551585 (http://www.lakeandcityhomes.com/idx/residential/1551585/details.html - broken link)

Just register on the site to view all the property details and photos, then hit Request a Showing to set up a private appointment.

[Dairylander]

There is no need to "register" on anyone's website to get house listings.
All of the MLS (multiple listing service) listings are available without providing any personal information at:
www.wisconsinhomes.com

[Dairylander]

Meadowood has been a little challenged lately.
This area has seen an increase in crime in the past 10 years that has been sufficient to warrant an effort by the residents to attempt to "take back" their neighborhood.
If at all possible, I'd recommend trying to stay inside the beltline.

[Megan1967]

I believe Dairylander is correct. I have a friend who teaches at Orchard Ridge and she has noted a change in the composition of the student body. Many more children in transient situations, parents in jail, multiple families living together in small apartments, etc.

[subclavius]

A quick drive down Hammersley and you can see who's destroying the neighborhood. They throw all their trash out the front door and it litters their yards, the curbs, and the nearby parks.