Thinking about purchasing a property in The Bronx

[Abigail T.]

Hello,

I currently rent in Manhattan ($1600/month ) and I am considering buying a condo in the Bronx instead and paying a mortgage that will be closer to the rent I am currently paying. I have also been looking at multi families under $550,000 to rent one unit as I am living in another unit. My question is how safe is South Bronx around the Woodstock or Melrose area? I want to be as close to Manhattan as possible and those are the neighborhoods I am currently viewing properties at. Do you think it is the right time to buy around that area? 

Thanks in advance