The options listed are good so far. You keep saying north and south Camden though, are you interested in finding actual housing IN Camden? That is something that just wouldn't generally be recommended by most anyone on the board. There really aren't any "gems" left to buy in Camden.
The ONE property in Camden that people might suggest would be the Victor Lofts, but these are all rentals. It's very convenient to Cooper and is a community onto itself. It SHOULD be a very cool place to live with great amenities and spectacular views of Philly, but the fact it is in Camden keeps a lot of people away. I have to admit, if I was single without kids it
might be something I would consider.
NJ Waterfront Apartments | Philadelphia Loft & Rental Apartments
Outside of that, your mom's budget leaves it wide open for anything in Collingswood, Oaklyn, Haddon Twp., Audubon, Haddon Heights, Cherry Hill and even some properties in Haddonfield. Basically there are a lot of options. When it comes to commuting, I think driving is the far better choice. While transit is an option, you'll get dropped off at Walter Rand and then need to walk the equivalent of a few blocks to get to the hospital. Not bad during the day, but not a great option at night. Driving in, the 'safest' route is the most congested and involves taking 130 or 42/76 to 676 or 30 and then getting off in the downtown district right near Cooper. The alternate is a drive straight up Haddon Ave., but that takes you through some VERY sketchy neighborhoods. Maybe a good option for the morning and then take the highway home at night.