First Time Home Owner ~ South Burbs... Lansing? Park Forest?

Hi,
I would choose Lansing before Park Forest. I know both areas very well. There are some nice neighborhoods in both areas, but I think there are cuter areas in Lansing. As long as you are considering going East, why don't you try some areas of Dyer? There are some very cute homes in established neighborhoods where you can pick something up for around $100,000. My friend just moved to Hammond and her children are in a great school district. Apparently, there are two different districts and you need to move to the area that has the better schools. She has a cute brick cape cod and a nice yard on a manicured street. If you have any questions or would like specific information, please ask. I used to work for the cable company in the south suburbs and the south side was my working area. I know pretty much street by street, which areas are better than others. Feel free to ask me anything and have fun looking for your new home.
L.

Hi K.: My name is K., I am a single parent of a 8 yr old son. I just put a contract on a 2bd condo in Lynwood. Lynwood is the next burb over from Lansing. I just found two ladies who will provide child care for my son after school. I like the Lynwood area because it is close to lansing to do my shopping but it dosen't seem to be a busy as Lansing. I did look in Lansing to but the prices were a little better in Lynwood. My son will go to shcool in Lansing. I contacted the school he will attend, as a matter of fact the school secretary provided the names for his child care. I am very pleased with my decision to look in Lynwood. My real estate agent has been wonderful. Her name is Sherie Nunnally out of the Coldwell Banker office in Lansing. Good Luck with your search. P.S. I couldn't afford Park Forest.

For South Suburbs, homes within Flossmoor school district are better although homes can be pricier... you'd have to look. Jan Bray with Remax is a good broker for south burbs...Good luck.

K., since you are consdering Lansing, would you ever consider NW Indiana? Dyer is right over the border and almost backs up to Lansing so it isn't much farther. They have an excellent school district and still has reasonable housing. And, you are right that the other areas are going through some changes. Dyer is actually being built up with housing and businesses so you will most likely see an appreciation with what you buy. Just a thought.

Have you looked at HOmewood? Good schools, reasonable homes, great park district, good access to transportation!