So I plan to be buying a home soon. Within the next 2 years. So I'm saving and searching. Me and my wife are looking into the Tampa area as there is an AF base located nearby.

I grew up in NJ all my life and love the place but too expensive there between the taxes and cost of living. I've done some research and the prices of the homes are definitely in my price range. But I have a few questions.

What's the Tampa area like? Are there the usual gangs and street thugs? Which areas are best to stay away from? What's the night life like in Tampa? Lastly and most importanly how often and bad are the hurricanes? I've been through quite a few but they may differ than what we had in Jersey.

Also my home I'd like it to be in a pretty populated area, and not so much in the sticks (grassy, field like areas). So what counties are best to look into. Price range is 100k-175k.

 

You should rent and live there for awhile...at least a year or two. During this time you will become familiar with your chosen area as well as other areas. My guess is that even with research, until you live there you won't know the "perfect" area for you...if there is one...until you live there. And since you won't really know this until you pull the trigger, and to give yourself the most options, and to allow you to save further, etc., you would be better off renting. Good luck.

J