Which area to buy house in? Help! (Jersey City, Edison: to rent, condo)

[djshinodalp]

I used to rent in Exchange Place/Jersey City and am now living in a 2 BR in North Bergen. I am looking to buy a house and need some help in figuring out which areas to focus in on.

Work - Exchange place/JC. In future, perhaps downtown or midtown NYC.
School - Elementary school should be good.
Area - so far I'm interested in either South Brunswick or Edison or nearby. Mostly because of how good the schools are and because a number of my colleagues around there. Part that I don't like as much is commute. Are there places closer to JC or NYC with good schools where I can find affordable houses?
Budget - $400k
Things that are important - elementary school, safety

[ArminLusinyants]

Berkeley Heights and New Providence have great schools and there is a direct train to Penn... Also, try Livingston and Springfield. No train, but there is a bus service. You can get a small 2-3 bedroom house or a condo for ~400K.
Best Regards, Armin

[djshinodalp]

Armin - thanks!

Have been looking at Livingston, will look at other areas also.

[ArminLusinyants]

You are welcome. You may want to check out Fanwood and Scotch Plains as well. Let me know if you need help buying in any of the towns in Morris, Essex or Union counties.

[LocalJrsyGal]

West Orange, Livingston, Fanwood, Summit, Chatham, even Jersey City, Fortlee, Weehawken are good areas