Two Cities near NYC that are perfect for families: Tips for Buying or Renting a Home
Finding a new home for your family is not easy. There’s a lot to consider— school districts, commutes, neighborhoods and more. We are here to help! We’ve rounded up some of our top picks for New York families to live in.
Plus, we asked local real estate agents to share their pro tips for families shopping for their first home whether it’s to buy or rent. Should you do a home inspection before buying? How do you know if a neighborhood is right for your family? Read on so you can live in your dream home today!
Westfield, NJ
With award-winning school districts and an easy commute to town, Westfield, NJ, is a highly sought-after city for families. Westfield schools were recently named one of the best school districts in NJ by Niche.com! After you send your kids to school for the day, you can head to Manhattan for work, just 22 miles away. In addition, this lively city has many kid-friendly activities, including parks, playgrounds and downtown shopping.
When looking for your first home in Westfield or elsewhere, agent Frank D. Isoldi says: “The key is to be as prepared for the process as possible. The first step is to find a top agent who is a local expert in the area you are looking for. ” As a busy parent in NYC, you probably have a million things to do every day, but try to take the time to prepare for your house search. “Having all your finances in place before you start looking is important,” {Isoldi.
Just like choosing a home, the neighborhood is an important part of finding the right fit for your family. “Every family has different priorities but for many with young children, proximity to schools, parks and playgrounds is usually very high on the list,” explains Isoldi. “Other things to consider are daycare options, sports offered, as well as other after-school programs.”
The interior of the house is important, and Westfield boasts some beautiful properties. For example, 638 Kimball Avenue is a recently renovated 4+ bedroom, 2.1 bath home close to schools and the downtown area. An open front porch, custom woodwork, and a gourmet kitchen add the finishing touches to this beauty.
But no matter how amazing the house is, make sure you get a home inspection. I always suggest that my buyers do a home inspection,” Isoldi said. “Even if you’re in a multiple bid situation and limit your request options, I always suggest a general inspection, chimney inspection, oil tank sweep and sewer coverage.”
Frank D. Isoldi, TheIsoldiCollection.com, Coldwell Banker
Cell: 908-787-5990 Direct: 908-301-2038
Pelham, NY
Hoping to stay in the state? Pelham, NY, may be just what you’re looking for. It is located in the Westchester region, in the central part of the country, 10 km north of Westchester, the capital of the country.
Manhattan, Pelham is a commuter’s dream. Not only are there kid-friendly things to do in this tight-knit community, but you’re a hop; step away from many things to do in NYC.
Whether you’re looking for your first family home in Pelham or elsewhere, agent April H. Monaco recommends taking some early steps. “The first step of a buyer should always be to get a letter of approval. This will help you understand what you can afford comfortably,” he explained.
Monaco also emphasizes the importance of a good realtor for first-time home buyers: “Look for someone who has good knowledge of the market and who actively listens and understands your wants and needs.” After all, your agent will negotiate the terms for you, so you want to make sure you’re in good hands!
When buying or renting you want to get the best deal on amazing Pelham homes with the help of your agent. While there is a nice variety of homes here, 10 Ridge Place at Pelham Manor stands out with 4 beds, 3 full baths and 2 ensuites. Families love the space—there’s a sunroom, billiards room, and sunken living room in this elegant home from the 1920s.
But as Isoldi says, Monaco agrees that home inspections are always important. “As a seasoned realtor with over 20 years of experience, I have seen, and been a part of, many negotiations – even some with no specific events, including home inspections,” said of Monaco. “I always recommend home inspections, if for no other reason than to understand the home and learn how it works.”
And don’t forget to check out the neighborhood too! Monaco encourages buyers to try to imagine their family there, every day. What do you do at the weekend? Where do you get your groceries? Where do your children play outside? Walk around town to answer these questions before you set your sights on buying a home.
Buying or renting a home for the first time can be scary, but it can also be exciting! Take the time to find the perfect home for your family.
April MonacoHoulihan Lawrence
914-548-8350