Help, Orlando question....

[KristyK]

I know there is probably a thread about this, and I'm about to walk out the door, but DH dropped a bomb on me last night, and again this morning that we could possibly be moving there. He's gotten a job offer that he isn't sure he can turn down.

So here's my questions, and mods, if you need to move it, thats ok too.

What are the "good" places to live around Orlando. The towns, the cities, the counties? I have no clue what is where, etc.

I know "good" is very vague, but I don't want to be in a rundown part of Florida because I didn't know. I want to be close to a lot of amenties, but not so close I can throw an orange from my backyard to the parking lots.

We definitely don't need a golf area, or golf course housing development.

So where are the nice areas with good schools (DS is only a junior this year) that the houses are modest in price (anywhere from $200,000-$400,000) that isn't just a moneymaker for the builders. A development isn't really a problem, but a bigger lot would be better for us.

Anything and everything is considered help! TIA!

Kristy

[em1126]

Kristy,
I don't know a whole lot about Orlando itself so this may be completely irrelevant, but I live in the county directly east of Orlando. Where I live there are many areas that are developing and housing is still fairly affordable. In addition, it's a HUGE buyer's market right now. (I think that's the case everywhere, but even more so here.) Almost all the schools here are A or B rated. We're about a 45-minute drive to the outskirts of Orlando, so I'm not sure that's what you're looking for, but if you want more information, I'll be happy to give it to you.

[myshel]

I had a friend who lived in Winter Park, Florida. I can't rally speak to the housing cost, but since she worked for Winter Park HS, I know that the schools are quite good. She loved living there and felt that it was close enough to Orlando without the hustle and bustle of a metro area.

[HeatherFL]

I live in Tampa-about an hour from Orlando. Winter Park (http://www.ci.winter-park.fl.us/2005/) is very nice! You might get more help is the Central Florida thread in the Local Southeast Section of the Boards.

One of my best friends in the world lives in Orlando and I know he'd be happy to help. I'll PM you his email address. Just let him know you know me and he'll point you in the right direction.

~H.

[ruledbymercury]

I live in Altamonte Springs, which is just north of Orlando. You may want to look into the Lake Mary/Heathrow areas (which is just a little further north from me). Parts of Winter Park are really nice. My best friend and her husband just bought a house there. The only problem for you might be that it's an older area, so the neighborhoods are quite cozy and lot sizes can be small. My parents live in unincorporated Seminole County and love it. You may want to check out the Sweetwater Oaks, Sabal Point, and Wekiva subdivisions. PM me if you want more specific information.

[Oakley]

I live in Orlando, but have only been here for 5 months or so, so others might be more of a help. I'll try to think of some good areas and PM you with them. I will say that it would be good to live in a nice place close to you/your husband's jobs since traffic can be a nightmare!

[ManteoChik]

I'd have to second the Altemont/Lake Mary area.

My friend and her hubby have lived in Lake Mary for probably 7 years now, they moved from CA where their children went to private school. When relocating to FL they specifically picked Lake Mary because of the school system. Their oldest daughter is a freshman at Lake Mary High School and they've been *very* happy living in that area. Their neighborhood is very nice, its a gated community and she' probably about 5-10 mintues away from her girls school (the younger daughter is still in elementary school). From what I've been told, when they rezoned for the schools many people moved so their children could go to Lake Mary.

She loves the area because its close to everything she needs. She's within 15 min of three different malls, movies, shops, restaurants, pretty much whatever she could need. I'm currently in Daytona Beach (short relocation) and its aweful here, I go to my friends quite a bit and I really like the area that she's in. If we ended up having to stay in FL, instead of moving home to NC, I would move to the Lake Mary area because I really like it.

[littlemia]

Where would your husband work? That would probably affect where I suggest because some of the commutes can really be brutal. I live in Seminole County, Longwood specifically. There aren't that many bad places in Seminole County. It's suburban and middle class for the most part. If you're looking at public schools, Seminole County is one of the highest rated districts in the state. http://www.greatschools.net/ (http://www.greatschools.net/) has more information about schools in the area.

[Wrighty26]

I agree with Kate (Oakley) - it's best to live near where your husband works. Traffic can be a bear depending on what direction you're headed! There are tons of "good" areas across the city. I think each of them have their pros and cons. Let me know the specific area (for example - I live in Southeast Orlando - Specifically in Waterford Lakes/Avalon Park) and I'll tell you some good places to look!

IMO -Unless your DH is working in the Altamonte Spring area - I would avoid it. You will spend a lot of time on I-4. Not Fun!

[ruledbymercury]

IMO -Unless your DH is working in the Altamonte Spring area - I would avoid it. You will spend a lot of time on I-4. Not Fun!

In my opinion, this is not true! :) I live in Altamonte, work in Heathrow, and I NEVER use I-4. Everything I need (shopping, errands, movies, restaurants, etc) is close by and if I have to leave Altamonte, I use the fairly simple and straightforward network of backroads. I've lived in this area for 16 years now and if you get to know your way around without taking I-4, it's fine. To me, the Avalon Park area (where good friends of mine just purchased a house) is WAAAAAYYY the heck out in the middle of nowhere! I guess it just depends on what areas your comfortable with and what backroads you know to take. :D

I agree that you can't go wrong with pretty much anywhere in Seminole County.

[KristyK]

I've now got a lot of things to look at. THat will be a start! I'm not sure where the place my DH would work is located, I don't think he even knows that. It was just kind of sprung on him by his boss yesterday, and he's seriously thinking about it. I was just in Orlando for vacation in August, and besides being hot, I loved it! DH, on the other hand doesn't love it, but he knows if its a boost for his career, it would be stupid to NOT take the job. It's what he's worked for his whole life.

Thanks for the PM Heather, I'll let you know when I'm ready to contact him so you won't be shocked when he calls you! :D

Thanks again! I'm going to start looking (again!) right now!

[Wrighty26]

I've been thinking about this-- and here are some areas to check out so you can at least get a head start on your research:


Dr. Phillips (near Universal Studios)
Conway (close to downtown/airport) (This is where I grew up/went to high school)
Belle Isle (close to downtown/airport)
Metrowest (near Universal)
Maitland
Oviedo (close to UCF)
Waterford Lakes (Close to UCF)
College Park (Near downtown)
Altamonte Springs
Lake Mary
Winter Park
Apopka
Hunter's Creek (close to Kissimmee/Disney)
Celebration (close to Kissimmee/Disney)

I'll keep updating if I think of any more! Good luck with your search :D

In my opinion, this is not true! I live in Altamonte, work in Heathrow, and I NEVER use I-4. Everything I need (shopping, errands, movies, restaurants, etc) is close by and if I have to leave Altamonte, I use the fairly simple and straightforward network of backroads.

You are definitely entitled to your opinion :) The only reason I say this is because I have several coworkers who live in Altamonte Springs and it takes them an hour to get to work-- no matter what route they take, and they are always complaining about the traffic/I-4. I work in Research Park--and it's about 15 minutes from where I live.

[littlemia]

You are definitely entitled to your opinion The only reason I say this is because I have several coworkers who live in Altamonte Springs and it takes them an hour to get to work-- no matter what route they take, and they are always complaining about the traffic/I-4. I work in Research Park--and it's about 15 minutes from where I live.

Yeah, Research Park is probably one of the most awkward places to get to from Altamonte. I wouldn't recommend living in the Altamonte/Longwood or even Lake Mary area if you have a job on the East side of Orlando (UCF, Research Park area). There simply isn't an easy way to get there. Altamonte to downtown or even to parts of the West side of town is much easier even if I-4 is a parking lot sometimes.

[bookworm]

I don't live in Orlando, but am often there on business. I agree that it totally depends where your job is--the east side and the Disney area are quite far from each other.

[Wrighty26]

Yeah, Research Park is probably one of the most awkward places to get to from Altamonte. I wouldn't recommend living in the Altamonte/Longwood or even Lake Mary area if you have a job on the East side of Orlando (UCF, Research Park area). There simply isn't an easy way to get there. Altamonte to downtown or even to parts of the West side of town is much easier even if I-4 is a parking lot sometimes.

You would think they would make an easier route! Of course, you would also think that I-4 would have more than 4 lanes :D (though, I guess it does in some areas now!).

I went back and reread my post and I think I came off sounding horribly snooty about Altamonte Springs. I really wasn't trying to. I just hate having to drive out there. I hope I didn't offend anyone!

[ruledbymercury]

Nah, no offense taken. :) I think a lot of it is all in what part of town you're most familiar with. To me, East Orlando is a pain to get around. When I went to UCF, I commuted from my parents' house near Longwood and it wasn't fun. So I guess I just associate that area as being difficult to get to and far from everything else. Thus, when my friends bought the house in Avalon Park, my first thought was "Why would anyone want to live way the heck out there?" Ha! But it's just because everything I need is over here in the Altamonte/Longwood/Lake Mary area, so of course that area seems inconvenient. It's all in perspective! :D

To the OP: I agree that it really does depend on what part of the Orlando area his work will be. But you've gotten a lot of good advice on the good places to start looking. And no matter what part of town you need to look, there are good neighborhoods to be found close by. Good luck!

[udsweetpea]

I lived in the Disney area, Lake Buena Vista to be exact. It's in Orange County. I'm not a big fan of Osceola County, so I wouldn't recommend that. I loved the Disney area. Everything you ever want is right near you, plus Downtown Disney is free to get in!

Before choosing a place to live, I would highly recommend finding out which side of Orlando your hubby's job is located. I agree the commutes are brutal, and you'll need to find something near him.

I-4 can get pretty messy, but its convenient during non-rush-hour times.

[jeepgirl]

I live in the Altamonte Springs area and I like it, but if I could choose to live anywhere in the Orlando area it would probably Oviedo/Winter Springs. There are some REALLY neat upcoming areas up there, and yet the traffic is SO MUCH less stressful than at the center of the city. However, if your husband doesn't work around Lake Mary or the Oviedo/WinterSprings its not convenient.

Waterford Lakes is nice if you like "new" with great shopping. Its a VERY "busy" area. Traffic can be a pain sometimes, but everything is very convenient.

Avalon Park, not far from Wateford Lakes is a very "disney" feeling like development, its a complete "village" in itself.

WinterPark is probably my favorite for living close to the heart of the city. The nicer parts are pricey to live in, but if you can afford it, and need to be close to downtown, in my opinion, its absolutely adorable, cozy, etc.

I REALLY like the Lake Mary area too. Its VERY nice, and everything you need is right there. If you or your husband would need to commute "south" on I-4 into Orlando everyday the traffic can be a pain though.

Hope that helps!

[ruledbymercury]

It's funny...I didn't realize how many of you live right in my own backyard until this thread! Who knew there were so many CC-ers right here in Altamonte Springs/Longwood/Lake Mary? Hee!

[bellaprincess]

The traffic can be a pain in East Orlando, especially going to Altamonte Springs because you have to take very congested roads with street lights that take forever to change.

If you are going any other place in town ( from East Orlando), the 408, the 417 and the 528 are right there.

[KristyK]

Ok ladies, we've found out that the address is on a Rouse Road in Orlando. According to the google map it looks to be just south Seminole county and east of the Seminole Expressway. DH says the center north of Orange County. Geez, I hope that helps!

I've been eyeing houses! I'm falling in love with some of them. A pool is a must!

Thanks again for any help ladies!

ETA, DH says its 6 miles to Oviedo....guess thats probably where we'll be looking!

[missy329]

Well, I also live in Seminole County- Winter Springs to be exact. I would also recommend Seminole County because of the schools. Try Oviedo or Winter Springs!

[Wrighty26]

That's near my (and bellaprincess) side of town. Oviedo is definitely a good place to start looking!!

I know you said you were looking for a house with a bigger lot size-- my inlaws just moved back to Orlando and were hoping for the same thing. They were able to find something in the Rio Pinar area (also very close to where your DH could potentially be working). The zip code is 32825.

Keep us updated -- and feel free to PM me if you have any questions about anything :)

[KristyK]

You ladies are the best! I'm looking, really looking! :D I'll let you know if we find out anything, but for now, we're kind of in a holding pattern until the boss comes out here the first of November. We are starting to get ready though. Maybe this is what I needed to light the fire under DH's butt! We've got tons of plans this weekend for this house! It's going to be a long one, I can see it now! :P

Thanks again! I'll keep you posted!

[bellaprincess]

KristyK: Is your husband going to be working at LM ( don't want to spell it out, but it's a major corp.)?

If so, that is at the intersection of Rouse Rd. and Lake Underhill Rd.There are lots of nice places right near there if that is where your husband will be at.

Off the top of my head, I can think of a few subdivisions ( all gated) not even 1/2 mile from there:

Lake Kehoe Preserve (nice large lots, beautiful homes- I saw several models)

Woodland Lakes ( even newer construction,also nice homes - I love model homes!)

Field Stream West ( Never been in any)

Also the Waterford Lakes subdivisons start very close to there just past the intersections of Alafaya trail and Lake Underhill Rd. Tons of nice homes back there.

Have a nice night :)

[KristyK]

Bella:
No, his corp is private contractor for the government, not LM (whatever that might be? :D ). I'll look into those developments though!

I'm having such a ball shopping for homes! We're really thinking if it does happen, we might even build instead, but we'll see!

Thanks again ladies for all the information!

[bellaprincess]

KristyK: I thought he might be working for Lockheed Martin ( they are also a private contractor for the gov't) so I decided to use the initials in case he was and you weren't comfortable with sharing the name of his employer. :)

[KristyK]

Thanks bella! Nope, not LM! Same type of work though, and they are probably all in the same industrial park or something along that line!

Found a couple more homes that I'm interested in...why does this month seem to be going so slow now? I guess because I'm so anxious to know whats going on! I'm so darn impatient! :D

Thanks again ladies!

[KristyK]

I have a few more questions if you don't mind answering! I am really getting anxious about all of this move, etc........and it's all still up in the air! DH's boss is in DC working on a new contract, not sure if he's even getting here the first of Nov now or not......I can only hope! :D

We've been looking at houses all over the place. We're trying to stay in the East Orlando area, or in the vicinity of UCF, because of where DH's job will be. We've noticed that the houses in St. Cloud, and Kissimee (south of DH's work) areas seem to be much cheaper than those further north. We think that Lake Mary, and the areas close to it would be too much of a drive, in too much traffic, thats why we've been looking on the other Eastern side of Orlando. Geez, I guess I need to get to the question:

Why is it so much cheaper in those areas? The houses don't appear any smaller, or cheaper built. Are the neighborhoods worse? A lot of the homes that we've noticed are cheaper and even nicer than some of those in the Northern areas. Any clues?

Another question.....about pools and screens around them. What is the most recommended pool material? Most I've seen are gunite/concrete. What is the difference between a "screened in porch", or "solar heated"? Is the solar heating just the sun? Are most of them screened in, or glassed in with air condidtioning? Or do they even do that?

Built in spas. Does anyone have one? Are they comfortable? Most of them look like molded concrete, with no "cush" in them. Are they like that? Would it be more cost effective, and comfortable, to go with a pool home with no spa, and then to put a standing hot tub on the patio surrounding the pool? DH thinks that would be better because the built-in spas look so uncomfortable, we also think that maybe we'd save money by "not" looking for a spa home, just the pool.

I thank you all again in advance. I just want to be as well informed as possible when/if we move there.

Kristy

[jeepgirl]

You are not a pest! Although... I really don't know what to tell you about Kissimee. I've never looked in that area. The prices on the east side of town might be higher because its in high demand right now - there's lots of new construction, and everything you can think of that you might need is over there, so its very convenient. If your husband's work is going to be over there, you might want to consider doing a short-term rental somewhere on the east side before you make a "buying" decision. I would suggest that for two reasons: 1) you can then measure the time it would realistically take your husband to commute from Kissimmee if you want to buy something there, as well as give you time to explore the area, or help you know if the extra expense of east orlando is worth it to you. 2) From what everyone is saying, the housing market is only going to get better for the buyer over the next year. Waiting 6 months might work in your favor.

I also have a selfish reason for making this post! My SO and I need to find something to rent on the east side of town hopefully by mid-December, although it *could* wait until January when my current lease is up, but I'll have lots of family down here to be able to help in December so that makes sense. If any of you have had a GOOD experience with an apartment complex on the east side of town please share! (We started looking last week, but have limited time to go together during business hours, so personal recommendations would mean a lot).

[Wrighty26]

I think that the prices are lower in Kissimmee/Osceola County because the demand to live there is lower and it's further away from the majority of shopping/restaurants. I don't think it's because the quality is less or anything ;)

My husband works in Kissimmee and traffic is not a problem. He just takes 408 to 417. It takes about 45 minutes to go 30 miles.

If any of you have had a GOOD experience with an apartment complex on the east side of town please share

How east are you looking? I have friend who lives (and another who did live there until she bought a house) in River Park Apts off of Dean Rd. They are right next to Blanchard Park. There are also some apartments off of Alafaya (near Avalong) that are nice. I cannot remember the name of the them of the top of my head - but they are located in a golf club community and I've known a few people that have lived there.

When we lived in apartments we lived in The Fountains at Waterford Lakes - they were OK, but one of my coworkers place got broken into (although it was about a year ago).

Oh - there's a nice apt complex in Oveido. Damn - can't remember the name of that place either, but it's also off of Alafaya. They have a nice pool - I went there a couple of times this summer :D

[bellaprincess]

Jess,
I would highly recommend the following apartment complexes off Alafaya Trail :
Ashton at Waterford Lakes, Cypress Lakes at Waterford Lakes and Victoria Place. You are going to be looking at $900- $1000 plus for a one bedroom.

[missy329]

Why is it so much cheaper in those areas? The houses don't appear any smaller, or cheaper built. Are the neighborhoods worse? A lot of the homes that we've noticed are cheaper and even nicer than some of those in the Northern areas. Any clues?

Another question.....about pools and screens around them. What is the most recommended pool material? Most I've seen are gunite/concrete. What is the difference between a "screened in porch", or "solar heated"? Is the solar heating just the sun? Are most of them screened in, or glassed in with air condidtioning? Or do they even do that?

Built in spas. Does anyone have one? Are they comfortable? Most of them look like molded concrete, with no "cush" in them. Are they like that? Would it be more cost effective, and comfortable, to go with a pool home with no spa, and then to put a standing hot tub on the patio surrounding the pool? DH thinks that would be better because the built-in spas look so uncomfortable, we also think that maybe we'd save money by "not" looking for a spa home

Well, as far as Kissimmee/St Cloud- I have some co-workers that live there. I would rather be in Seminole County or Orange County. Also, I think the drive would be quite long from those areas to the area your husband is working.

As far as pools- most pools are concrete with a gunite finish. A screened in pool means that it has the screen enclosure over the pool- very helpful for the maintenance of the pool, no leaves falling in the water. A solar heated pool means that there are solar panels on the roof of the house that heats the water for the pool. This is very common here- as are the screen enclosures I talked about before. I have never seen one glassed in with air conditioning. Most of the pools will be concrete with a gunite finish, screened in enclosure over them, and solar heated (makes them usable year round).

As far as spas- that is really a personal preference. Some people like them built in the pool, some like seperate free standing. There are pros and cons to each one.

Good luck on your house hunt. I also agree with the above poster who mentioned maybe renting for a while to get a feel for the place. If not then I would definately have him do the drive from Kissimmee/St Cloud to where he works to see just how long it would take before I would start looking in that area.

[KristyK]

Thanks for the info ladies!

Lisa, I think DH is going to throw 3-6 months rental into his contract, that way we'll have the time to look, and drive, to find out how far everything is. Also, thank you for the pool and spa info. We weren't sure what any of that wording meant, now we'll know! :D

Thank you again ladies for all the great info. You don't know how much easier the wonderful information you've given is going to help us with our move. DH and I most certainly appreciate it!

Take care.
Kristy

[KristyK]

We're moving to the Orlando area! WOOOHOOOO!!!! Can you tell I'm a bit excited? :D

DH has to be there permanently around the first of April. I'll go in June after school is out. We'll be putting our house for sale here, renting there for a bit (so thank you to the lady that asked for rental info!) to get the feel of where we want to buy. DH has been looking at houses while he's been there this week and we've found quite a few. We've just decided that we want to make sure we live there to get a feel for the different areas, then we can be more picky about a house, rather than a quick look-see on a quick trip here and there.

Thank you again.......NEIGHBORS! :D

[HeatherFL]

YAY!!!! Congratulations!

[ruledbymercury]

Let me offer you an early "Welcome to the neighborhood!" :D

[Wrighty26]

Wahoo! Congrats on the decision :)

[KristyK]

Thanks ladies! I can't wait to get out of this snow and ice! I'm feeling the old persons cold weather bones, Florida will be perfect for me! :D

[1MegMeg]

Kristy - I hope you don't mind if I ask an Orlando question too. :)

I, too, am moving to Orlando for work....but not from too far away, just the west coast of Florida. Since I live so close I am pretty familiar with the area, but what I could really use help with is finding a salon/hair stylist! Does anyone have any recommendations? I'd prefer the location to be east of I-4, not further north than SR50 and...well it can be pretty far south, as the location were I am going to ultimately be living is in SE Orlando (aroundish 417 and OBT). Thanks so much for your help!

[KristyK]

I think thats a great question Meg!

The women on here are so helpful, I'm sure there are going to be lots of suggestions!

I'll be looking for everything, dentist, gyno, chiropractor, general practitioner, plus a stylist and waxer! :D

I'll be living probably in Oviedo, thats where all the houses we're looking at are. Either that or east Orlando, near UCF.

I'd love any suggestions! TIA!

[Wrighty26]

Here's my list of recommendations - though some may not meet your criteria :)

Stylist
Lori Marshall
Stella Luca Salon (http://www.stellaluca.com/)

GYN
Winter Park OB/GYN (http://www.wpobgyn.com/)

General Practictioner/Family Dr.
Dr. Joseph Gallagher, DO
250 N Alafaya Trail STE 100
(407) 282-4400

Waxing/Spa
Beauti-Works
383 N Alafaya Trl
(407) 275-9999
(I've never been here, but my friends recommend it-- I don't remember who does the waxing - I'll get back to you on that one!)

Dermatologist
Dr. Ronald Knipe
70 W Gore St Ste 2
(407) 581-2888
(You have to book an appt. with him about 6 months in advance, but he's worth it!)

I really need to find a new Dentist, so I have no recommendations there (if you find one you like when you move here, let me know!).

[KristyK]

Thanks for the rec's! I'm keeping a list!

Anyone in the healthcare field? I'm a nurse (LPN) and wondering what the going rate for pay is in the area. I hope it's at least comparable to what I'm making here, otherwise.....ugh with the bills!

TIA!

[jeepgirl]

I'm a graduate nurse. I don't know what the LPN pay in the area is, but I do know what the going rate is for RN's, not taking into account how many years of experience you have.

New nurse, 0 experience = about $21/hour day shift @ Florida Hospital (not counting differentials). The pay would only go up from there based on experience and your shift times. For example, the night differential @ FH is VERY generous. You would end up making about 30% more than you would on days. I don't know what other hospitals in the orlando area pay. I'm switching to a different hospital about an hour outside of orlando. The hourly rate is a bit less than at Florida Hospital, but the tuition reimbursement is EXCELLENT, which is one of the reasons I'm switching. I felt like getting my bachelor's paid for was/is worth it.

Hope that helps and - Good luck!!!

[KristyK]

Thanks Jeepgirl! Unfortunately thats about what I make now as an LPN with 7 years experience. Well 25 in healthcare, 7 as an actual nurse. I might have to take a position off hours to get the shift differential. I was hoping I wouldn't have to work full-time, but since it looks like I'll be taking quite a drop in pay, I'll have too when we first get there.

Thanks again for the info!

[KristyK]

Well ladies, I'm bumping this thread because I have another question...who'd have thought that, huh? :D

We made an offer on a house in the "Econ Woods" subdivision. It's a beautiful house, and appears to be in the "Rio Pinar" golf course area. We are hoping this is a good area, although older, the homes seem about right for us. It also doesn't appear too far from DH's work, or anyplace I might look for work (several nursing homes in the area).

Any thoughts on our (hopefully) new neighborhood?

Oh, and if we don't get this house, the 2nd one on our list is in a subdivision called WEDGEFIELD, ROCKET CITY. Anyone with info on either one of these areas would be greatly appreciated.

We really just want to know that they aren't bad neighborhoods. We don't really care about schools, DS isn't overly concerned about schools. We are looking at whether they are nice areas, no trash on the streets, no stuff littering up the yards, no sewer plant or garbage collection place right on the same street, those kind of things. We don't want to find out we've bought a house in the crappy area, just because we wanted something a bit cheaper. I hope someone has some insight.

TIA!!

[Wrighty26]

Hey Kristy! Glad to hear things are moving along for you with your move :)

Econ Woods is right near my where my ILs live (they live in Deerwood) and it's a good area. The houses are older, but if that's what you are looking for than you will be set! Older homes usually do come with larger lots -- which is always a good thing in Orlando. I know you said you don't really care about the schools in that area -- but I *think* your son is in high school -- and if that's the case he'd probably go to University High, which was named in the list of the Nation's top high schools last year. Always a good thing! On a side note, there may be a lot of college age kids renting because Valencia Community College is right down the road. That's not necessary a bad thing (my neighbors are UCF students who rent and we don't have a problem with them).

As for Wedgefield -- it's in a completely different area than Econ Woods. It's actually kinda in the middle of BFE. It's a nice community, but there aren't a ton of other things surrounding it (IMO, it seems a little out of place). I have a friend who lives there, who likes it though - so it's all about personal preference! If you are looking for something "closer" to downtown/shopping area than it probably wouldn't be for you. It is close to 528 (Beach Line -- one of the major highways), so in that way it's good.

If you have any other questions -- feel free to ask! If you don't get the house (fingers crossed that you do!) I do know of some other subdivisions like Econ Woods that are worth checking out.

HTH!

[KristyK]

Thanks a lot Michelle! Actually, one of the reasons we like the Wedgefield area is because its closer to the water. DH has a fishing boat! :rolleyes: We bid too low for the house we wanted, they wouldn't even counter, I guess they don't care that it's been on the market for over a year, they aren't in a hurry, per their realtor. Oh well! There are only another 10,000 houses for sale in the Orlando area! :p So we're looking still, but the one in Wedgefield is still on the market too. DH just left tonight so he'll be there early next week and he'll be looking in person then.

Thanks again!