Moving to New Jersey need advice (Teaneck, Montclair: real estate, house prices, schools)

[MStoNJ]

Would appreciate advice . . . possible move to New Jersey for job in Ridgefield Park. Should we plan to live north or west? I've been told to look in Montclair, but like some real estate I've seen online in Teaneck and north. Upper 40's couple, empty-nesters, want yard for the dogs and easy commute to work. Which area would have less sticker shock for house prices and property taxes? Which area would have better resale value in years to come?

[GiantRutgersfan]

I would look in Little Ferry, Moonachie, Ridgefield, and Ridgefield park itself. These are all quality towns, and you can get to work quickly. I would just look for the best deal I could find between those towns.

Area will definitely hold its value

[Marc Paolella]

Originally Posted by MStoNJ

Would appreciate advice . . . possible move to New Jersey for job in Ridgefield Park. Should we plan to live north or west? I've been told to look in Montclair, but like some real estate I've seen online in Teaneck and north. Upper 40's couple, empty-nesters, want yard for the dogs and easy commute to work. Which area would have less sticker shock for house prices and property taxes? Which area would have better resale value in years to come?

If it were me, I'd go North, as it keeps you out of the east-west commuting traffic and closer to work, and to Manhattan. Towns like New Milford, Teaneck, Bergenfield, Tenafly, Emerson, Westwood, Hillsdale, Park Ridge, Fair Lawn, Maywood, River Edge. You can find something in any of these towns that will fit your needs. Easy commute with plenty of alternate routes when there is a backup.

Montclair is nice, but overpriced for what you get in my opinion, especially without kids. I just appraised a run of the mill 2,000 sqft Colonial with 3 bedrooms, tiny yard, nice, but nothing special. $600,000 and taxes of $17,000! If you don't need the schools, I would not pay those kinds of taxes for a relatively small home.

[MStoNJ]

Thank you both so much. I've never used a forum before. How nice to have people give friendly advice!