Holliston - right for first house? - Massachusetts (MA) - Page 2 - City-Data Forum

RHW1 · 02-15-2012, 05:30 AM

Thanks all, for the comments and the suggestions. I did some more research on Holliston and it does seem great, I am just so surprised how "under the radar" it is. We also love the Hamilton-Wenham and Andover areas, but have still found that our money does not go too far in either. No "hidden must haves," just looking for something nice, updating is fine as long as the home is move in ready. In reality the location and town are the most important factors for us.

RHW1 · 02-15-2012, 06:42 AM

Also, what about the South Shore? Would we be priced out of a Norwell, Hanover, Cohassett or Duxbury? Also would the commute to Boston be any worse? I know Rt. 3 and the Expressway can be a nightmare.

Thanks again for all the advice!

mmgilles · 02-27-2012, 06:42 PM

Have you looked at Andover? It has a great community feel with shopping and restaurants downtown, fantastic schools, several parks, a newcomers group with a few moms/tots groups. It can be a bit pricey, but I think you should be able to find something under $400 easily with your criteria as long as your flexible. Shawsheen Village is a great place for young families - very walkable to downtown, the library and parks, and since the housing bubble there are some amazing deals right now.

aberlore · 03-15-2013, 11:10 AM

Mansfield is on one of the nicer commuter train lines into South Station. Large backyards, shopping at Mansfield Crossing and Patriot Place. Several walking trails nearby and quick ride to the beach at the Cape or Rhode Island.

MikePRU · 03-15-2013, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aberlore

Mansfield is on one of the nicer commuter train lines into South Station. Large backyards, shopping at Mansfield Crossing and Patriot Place. Several walking trails nearby and quick ride to the beach at the Cape or Rhode Island.

Although the OP did log on here about 2 months ago, I would hope since the last post in the thread is over a year old that they found a place to live by now.

measured1 · 03-15-2013, 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RHW1

Does anyone have any other suggestions on towns? We are not necessarily limited to a specific area as long as Boston is within a 45 min commute by car.

Have you looked at Ashland? I don't know how much land you're looking for, but it's a little bit easier commute (either from commuter station or driving if you live on north side of town.)

good schools, some nice neighborhoods. I have no idea what your budget would get there, just thought I'd mention it.

Lola116 · 03-16-2013, 08:15 PM

As long as you don't mind a long commute to Boston Holliston could be the best fit for you. I think it is one of the few towns that would fit your budget and have very good schools. I know some will disagree but if I had to choose Holliston or Ashland for schools and quality of life my vote would be to Holliston. I do agree however that the Boston Commute is slightly easier from Ashland being it has its own commuter rail station.

Unfortunately there are only a handful of towns in MA that have affordable starter homes and good schools. For that reason I feel Holliston is a hidden gem. It is a little more of a rural feel but has a nice town center and fairly close to major shopping areas. As someone mentioned join the Newcomer's Club. You will meet tons of people and can meet other children in the playgroups they have set up.

I think you have to decide how much house you need. If you want more house go with Holliston. If you feel commute is most important as others said you can look at towns a little more convenient to Boston like Andover. I just get the impression you will be hard-pressed to find much in your budget in those areas.