Which area is better to buy a home? White Oak in Silver Spring or Lake Forest mall area Gaithersburg? (Columbia: real estate)

[cjenny2000]

Hello,

My husband and I will be moving to Maryland area because of job relocation. We are looking for a home around 400k at Montgomery County (because everyone recommends MC).

Now, there are two homes, one is at white oak silver spring area and other home is close to Lake Forest Mall, gaithersburg area. The price is very similar.

I did some research about these two areas, both of them are very diverse. We just got married and do not have kid, so we do not have to really consider about schools. Because my husband needs to travel frequently and I have to stay home myself at most time, so we really care about the safety and accessibility about our future neighbourhood.

Is there anyone live in white oak, silver spring or gaithersburg may tell me more about these two areas? I really appreciate every piece of information!!!

Thank you ALL!!!

[bonnielisabeth]

You might want to also post this in the Washington DC suburbs thread, as these are usually both considered suburbs.

There is some crime in each area, which is why the prices are lower. You definitely should google crime stats or check out https://www.crimereports.com/.

I think that taking into consideration the job commute for you (based on which is closest) would be the best idea. Those locations are quite far apart commute wise. Don't know if you are working with a real estate agent yet, but they may have more suggestions. (I am not an agent.) For example, the Longmead subdivision (near the intersection of Norbeck Road and Layhill road in outer Silver Spring) does have townhomes in your price range, and also has private security company patrolling the area. There are some thefts, but it feels safe.

If you want a safer area at your price point (400k) near BWI you might want to check out Columbia MD and Howard County.

[dkf747]

You need to be a bit more specific about the area around Lakeforest. If you mean over in Hidden Creek it is probably okay.

[goldenage1]

Originally Posted by cjenny2000

We are looking for a home around 400k at Montgomery County (because everyone recommends MC).

Now, there are two homes, one is at white oak silver spring area and other home is close to Lake Forest Mall, gaithersburg area. The price is very similar.

I am a long-term former resident of Montgomery County, and I would say neither area is an especially good choice. They both have seen better days and have crime problems clustering around the malls.

I will second the suggestion to live close to your workplace. A buyer broker will help. However, if I were young and not planning on having kids immediately, I would look at some of the newer townhouse complexes in Rockville and King Farm and Kentlands.

[btsilver]

Both areas are perfectly fine. Where are you coming from?

[dkf747]

Originally Posted by goldenage1

I am a long-term former resident of Montgomery County, and I would say neither area is an especially good choice. They both have seen better days and have crime problems clustering around the malls.

I will second the suggestion to live close to your workplace. A buyer broker will help. However, if I were young and not planning on having kids immediately, I would look at some of the newer townhouse complexes in Rockville and King Farm and Kentlands.

I think things are getting better on the Gaithersburg side, but I'm not sure about the White Oak side. That said, the OP might find better homes in the 20878 ZIP code area (which includes the Kentlands).