Once again, Reddit provides a good writing prompt. I find that if I spend a great deal of time answer one person’s questions, others may find the answers and conversation useful as well.

I’m going to answer a few of your questions (I’m Jim; I’m a realtor)

Would folks recommend renting short term to figure out where my wife, who’s in HR, would land a job then look to buy based on that?

Yes, absolutely rent first.

Thanks! Tonight I’m going to meet a buddy downtown and will take me about 45 minutes to get there so I’m not too concerned for traffic.

I’ve found that your perspective may change … I’d say for most people, ~23-25 minutes is a threshold for “am I going to go do this?“

I did look through Forrest lakes (sic) thanks to a Lyft driver that helped me see some areas. I also heard Crozet and over by Lake Monticello.

Forest. 🙂 Here’s a video of Forest Lakes I did years ago for a client. Your comment leads me to ask, “what do you need/want to be close to? What is ‘close’?”

I’m ok with a 20-30 min commute but the wife wants to be as close as possible.

• Why do you live where you do?

• What are your triangles?

• Crozet; here are some videos that you might find useful

It is possible to ride a bike from downtown Charlottesville to Hollymead/Forest Lakes

Unfortunately for buyers, the market is currently favoring the seller at this time.

This is very micro market specific. Some pockets are moving fast (going under contract in a day or two) and other pockets are getting hammered … taking weeks and months to sell, if at all.

Overall I’m fairly open but my wife wants basically a two story with yard, porch, updated kitchen, etc. yet close to being where things are happening. I’d want at least a garage.

This is stressful!

I know

Here’s a survey I use with my buyers; you might find it useful.

Other, related stories

• Some tips for buyers in Charlottesville

• Buyer Questions: New Developments in Charlottesville and Albemarle?

• Describing Life in Charlottesville & Crozet to a Friend – Part 1

• Describing Life in Charlottesville & Crozet to a Friend – Part 2

• What sucks about Charlottesville (podcast)

If you have any questions, I’m happy to help in any way.