planning to buy in New York city area (nurse salary)

[froggy8]

Hi all!

I'm planning to buy perhaps a 1 bedroom in the nyc area but don't know where! I'm really not too sure what neighborhood is safe/ on the cheaper side... anybody got suggestions?

I've been on craigslist but some look really old, and some look good but are in unsafe neighborhoods...

Thanks!

[froggy8, BSN, RN]

Sorry there is noooo way I am moving to any place where my commute will be 1-2 hours long! My commute now is 2+ hours long and it is KILLING ME.

Seriously thinking of buying a one bedroom in manhattan. I will be looking into anything under harlem...

All in all, Thank You everyone for the interesting comments and advice. Keep them coming!!!!!!!!!!!

[Gentleman_nurse, MSN]

I've lived all my life in NYC. Lived in each boro except for S.I. (can't wait to leave but that's a discussion for another day). Based on your question and choice for a 1 bedroom, I assume you are relocating and currently single with no children. If that's the case, I highly recommend you rent for a year or two perhaps with a roommate to cut expenses. Focus on getting settled with your job and NYC. This way you can make friends take your time to figure out which location is best suited for you. Also SAVE, SAVE, SAVE. Pay off your debts. You want to be in the strongest financial position possible before purchasing real estate. And don't forget to fund your retirement account if your employer offers matching contributions.

Don't mean to sound like a financial advisor or a parent but I wish someone told me these things when I was younger. Regardless of what you choose. Good luck!

[Liverpoollover]

where is the hospital that you're working at? and even if you lived in brooklyn or queens a 1-2 hr commute is unlikely unless you move deep into the boroughs.

[froggy8, BSN, RN]

Good ideas fellow nurses, thanks! The thing with renting is that its around the same as paying for a mortgage. All I am really worrying about is the down payment... I am really just going to focus on my new job and the apartment. I grew up in NYC area. As for a roommate, I'd prefer not to have one anymore. As you can see, I am very choosy haha and have and a lot of considerations. BUT I do appreciate the comments and advice from the more experienced! If all doesn't work out I will have to rent...

[Gentleman_nurse, MSN]

It's not perfect froggy8 but I think you're making a wise choice to focus on your job for now. The opportunity will come.