Can you help me think through this? (Move-related) - Page 2

[Louise Waugh]

Generally, expenses for commuting between your home and regular place of employment are not tax deductible (and travel for a commissioned sales job is) but ask an accountant.

How old are your children?  Are they already established in schools, teams/activities, long-term friendships?  How would they benefit if they were closer to family on CT?  If you are considering making the move, it might be easier on them to do it sooner rather than once they are older.

[cristina47454]

Originally Posted by Louise Waugh 

Generally, expenses for commuting between your home and regular place of employment are not tax deductible (and travel for a commissioned sales job is) but ask an accountant.

How old are your children?  Are they already established in schools, teams/activities, long-term friendships?  How would they benefit if they were closer to family on CT?  If you are considering making the move, it might be easier on them to do it sooner rather than once they are older.

The kids  are 9, 7 and 2.  I'm not worried about the 7 and 2 yos. But the 9yo is slow to make friends and is just this year, in 4th grade starting to get her feet underneath her :(  Kind of sad that she is going to have to start from scratch, but like you said, probably better sooner than later.  That is what was guiding my decision-making initially.  Just wanted to make sure I took a step back and saw it from all angles.

[cristina47454]

Originally Posted by angelcollector1 

While you're factoring in the expenses of the move, also remember that you will have state taxes done for both states because he works in one state and lives in the other..there's more in regards to expenses/costs that you need to count

This was already our case, so that part of it is a wash. Thanks for pointing it out...I'm sure I would not have considered that.

[Ramzubo]

Hi just saw your post and thought I'd chime in since we're in CT. My DH works in Middletown and commutes a little less than 30min. We live on the east side of the CT River and the value is much better here (schools are good too). We moved from a much cheaper part of the country and the COL hasn't been too bad in our area. DH loves his commute too becuase its pretty much a straight shot with a couple of lights so it's a very easy commute.

[cristina47454]

Ooh! Would you mind me asking what town you are in? (PM if you'd feel more comfortable...)

[Panserbjorne]

Originally Posted by cristina47454 

We are looking in the towns that I know have strong school systems.  We lived in CT for several years bfr moving to MA, so I have some familiarity with Hartford County and was basing our search on what I know. ALso looking in towns that were rated in CT Magazine as having good schools. He works in Middletown, which seems to have mostly apts to rent, and from what I hear (from people that live - and even teach -there) the schools are less than desirable. Can you give me some direction? PM me if you'd be more comfortable!

Again, I'm basing my numbers on Craigslist, which someone pointed out was not always a reliable indicator.  Is there a better way to find house rentals? I would much prefer a house, as we have 3 small kids and a small dog...and will most likely stay for a couple years until we can be in a situation to be able to buy. We do have a lead on a two family, but that is far from my ideal...

Sorry I didn't see this earlier, I wasnt' getting notifications for some reason.  I'm in Hartford county, but we do private school (as we don't have a strong system here) though the surrounding towns do.  Middletown is maybe 25 minutes from me, but Newington may be an option?  Good schools, low COL (for CT), good town, very centrally located etc.  I've looked at a few great houses for around 200k, and while that doesn't help a ton it does show there's good value there.  I'll have to think about things that are less expensive with good schools and closer to Middletown, it's not an area of the state I'm in often....but earthmama369 and clovergirl are both around there and may know better.  I also have an MDC friend who's a realtor and could hook you up with some rental action.  If you want to go that route let me know and I'll get you contact info.  Perhaps if you post in FYT you'll get some nutmeg ladies to weigh in.

[lifehappens]

You mention that one of your children is sensitive to change.  Having your kids comfortable and happy at school is a huge thing. Your husband is the adult and perhaps he's the one who should take on the discomfort of the situation until you are all absolutely sure that moving is the right thing for your family to do. Every marriage, family and child is different when it comes to these decisions. You and your husband know what your children can and cannot handle.