Townhome in a top 10 town or home with a yard in a below average (but safe) town?

Question

I currently live in a small (1000 sq feet) townhouse in a great town. The school's are some of the best rated in the state (currently) and have a lot of beautiful parks, farms and other things within close walking/driving distance. The town is also close to all major highways and about an hour outside of NYC. Should I move to a not so nice town (no crime, but not nearly as beautiful and 30 minutes farther away from NYC) The pro's in the town that is 30 minutes away from where i currently live is that my wonderful family (parents (in their late 70;s), sister, cousins all live in that town and we can afford a decent sized house/yard there. I'm leaning towards moving towards my parents/sister b/c we are all so close and currently see eachother at least once a week. I thought it would be wonderful to see them everyday (I stay home with my two year old) and for them to be there if we have another child or need a babysitter for a few minutes. Any help appreciated. I'm very torn.

Answer 1

I would recommend going where the best schools are.  In a couple years, you will have to start looking for kindergarten and grade schools.  Bringing up your child in a safe neighborhood is also important. If anything, ask your family to move near you!  Owning a home with a yard is a big pain in the butt. I was outside this morning since 7am, mowing, trimming bushes, painting, shoveling, and raking. you dont have to do any of that when you live in a townhome.  Less time landscaping, more time with the kids.

Answer 2

House, yard and being close to your family.  The decision should be simple. MOVE!!

Answer 3

I believe you and your children will benefit from your association with your extended family.  Your personal support system ie. your family.. will decrease stress and improve your quality of life. You do not mention how far your husband drives to work and how he feels about the move.  These are critical factors. Hopefully a move would not put undue stress on your relationship. If your husband travels in his work or the distance is not a major problem for him then go for being immersed in a loving environment. Always reassure your husband that he and your child are most important. Living in a "beautiful" area is nice, enjoying it alone is not so great. Caring human contact especially when life dishes out stresses/problems can make all the difference. Kids need all the lovin hugs they can get...so do you!  Kids need memories of aunts and uncles and cousins and grandparents.   Loneliness is a sad thing. Count your blessings you have a loving family....so many don't.  It's something to nurture and cherish.

Answer 4

I understand you dilema. I have a question for you. What is the best for your family. You and your children? Where you are now, you have a good school, friends, stability. It seems like the only think that is missing is your parents, sister, and cousins? Are you wanting to give up what you have to live 30 minutes closer to them, or do you want the yard, space and not be so much in the city? If i read your post correctly, I think even though you are leaning toward moving you really do not want to. I say go with your gut. 30 minutes is not that far and privacy is a really good thing :)