Buying the Right Home for Your Family

Proximity to work is another main priority when searching for a neighborhood. With congested highways and longer commuting time, living as close as possible to your place of employment will save time and aggravation—and may increase the value of your home. According to a May 28, 2001 article in U. S. News and World Report, a Chicago home located within a quarter mile of public transportation costs $36,000 more than a home located further away. With Atlanta now encompassing 13 counties, Gordon finds that one of a relocating family's primary concerns is commuting time. "People will actually drive from the house to where they work before making a decision," she says. "They are very family-oriented and do not want to spend four hours a day in a car."