I've been traveling with my family for work for the past 7 months and now it is time to come back to reality. During this time we have spent a considerable amount of time searching for the location of our next home. We currently have about $30k for a down-payment on a house and we are trying to finish saving enough before the end of the 1-year lease we are about to start.
I really want to bike to work, but it seems like the numbers aren't telling me this is a good idea. After considerable debate, here are our top options and some more info:
- 2 adults, 1 baby, 1 toddler, and maybe a new addition next year
- Toyota Yaris (great gas mileage)-when I had a 20-45 min commute last year I spent an average of $80 on gas per month (not just for my commute)
- $60k gross income
Apt. 1Rent 1100
Sq ft 617 (probably a bit cramped)
LEED platinum certified (cheaper utility bills?)
20 min bike-ride to work
Close to an ok selection of parks, stores, and a library
Fitness center
Apt. 2Rent 1000
Sq ft 774
1 hr bike-ride to work
Close to fantastic park and library (my wife would go here daily with the kids).
No fitness center
$50 for parking
WSG included
Apt. 3Rent 850
Sq ft 900
Not bikeable (Google says it is 1 hr 45 min by bike)
22-50 min commute (depending on traffic)
No fitness center
WSG, free parking space, and no pets allowed (big plus as I don’t like dealing with old pet smell or hair)
Within walking distance to stores, parks, and a library (although these are between 15 and 30 min away)