The top picks in my opinion are as follow. I would first recommend buying or renting in south or North Carolina. I know some people who rent and own there and would definitely keep an eye on this area. Next would be Florida. The insurance rates are pretty high but buying or renting are pretty reasonable. The least favorite places in a lot of people opinions are Boston and California. Sure the areas are real nice but for $400,000 I would not buy a two bedroom house and rent in both these areas for a studio apartment will go for at $800 just because of the location. Another favorite is the Vermont area and as well as the Texas area. These are real safe places to live and from what I hear, have a pretty good school system. I’d also stay away from the Chicago area because this is a pretty expensive area to live in. Another place to consider renting or buying is the Virginia area. Also a favorite on my list, if you want a vacation home, is anywhere in Puerto Rico. The weather is always so nice and you can also catch a nice cruise while you are down there.
