What would be a best strategy?

[Karelyn Cruz]

I know I have posted similar questions before but my husband and I are still going back and forward about where to buy. Scenario- would you buy a 1800 sq ft  house in Congress Heights (or Hyattsville) for $280-300K or a 900 sq ft in Deanwood/Benning Road area for $380-400K? Both are close to metro and renovated. We know the growth is faster and the taxes are lower in DC but the monthly payments will be higher. What would you do? What are the pros and cons in your opinion? Thanks! 

[M Marie M.]

I feel I've answered this before.

Hyattsville is all over the place in PG County. I would buy a fixer upper in the Hyattsville closer to Route 1. It's becoming the affordable Takoma Park. I'd avoid eastern Hyattsville, where the sidewalks are non-existent or cruddy. Pros: Let's say West Hyattsville is closer to more amenities and can tap into the University of Maryland student market, without having to be in College Park. Cons, taxes.

I've got friends who've moved to Deanwood. Deanwood has been up and coming for so long the "up and coming" label has expired, It is what it is. Like it for what it is now.