That is definately one thing that is difficult when making a decision to move with schools being one of the most important factors. I am a Realtor in Charlotte, NC, but moved from Smithtown, NY 13 years ago. I have three children myself here in the school system, so I hear what you are saying in being a realtor unable to specifically discuss why one school would be better than another. There are so many of us "transplants" here from different areas, and that is one of the major factors in a families decision to look for a home. Getting unbiased opinions like you are doing plus hitting the web would be exactly what I would do. I wish you the best of luck with your potential move! Best regards, Nancy

Suffolk County is huge and it's interesting the different perspectives from the different zip codes. The east end is still heaven.

Coming from someone born and raised on Long Island; currently living in Suffolk County with a family, I have to say it's just NOT the place it used to be and it never will be. It has its perks (beaches, close proximity to NYC, e.t.c) but IMO, the bad outweighs the good. It is just too expensive to live here, the traffic is insane, there are houses being built right to left and the Island is just too populated. Honestly, as much as Long Island will always hold a special place in my heart, it's time to leave and move on; I just don't like it here anymore. It's sad actually. You may like it, some love it! Most of the schools are excellent, so that isn't really a problem. It's very expensive to live here but it can be nice. Good luck and please visit for a long time before you decide to move down here. Like I said, Long Island is not for everyone.

I love it here! Despite the traffic, the current market and what ever else people want to say. That being said, come on down and visit a few areas, look on the web for school info and contact the police for info on the areas you are interested in. Call me at 631-680-0079 or e-mail me for more tips.

The quality of life on the North Fork is superb. Easy to reach and hard to leave. The fresh farm produce, excellent local wine, fine restaurants, stunning beaches and wildlife, and all the benefits that come from living in a small community become addictive. I haven't locked my car in years except in the mall. I meet people from all walks of life who have have relocated here, and from all over the world, and it's intellectually fascinating to live amongst so many talented people, many also working in niche markets in real estate. Manhattan is never very far away. Take the Jitney to meet friends for lunch. The cost of renting year round, and housing for sale still represents extremely good value for money when compared to other parts of the world. There are some fantastic bargains to be had right now in all price ranges, especially if you have cash available. The most common complaints are the property taxes and utilities. LIPA is offering rebates to go Green at this time. I would give extra attention to these aspects when reviewing suitable accommodation.

Returning from CT on the Orient ferry brings a wonderfully peaceful feeling as you pass the Bug Light House, the same feeling driving east from JFK at the end of the LIE. The anticipation of reaching the "Welcome to Long island Wine Country" sign is delicious, as the topography completely changes from high density suburbia to rural open space and farms. Beaches, boating, art, nature, fine food and music....and last but not least, very little in the way of pollution. What more could anybody want?

Feel free to call if you are tempted to try out this area: 631-252-5653.

I live in Queens now but I lived (rented) in Suffolk County (Deer Park) for three years and I liked it fine except for the commute, which was hellacious!!! I don't know if you or your husband will be commuting to Manhattan, but if so, seriously consider what adding 4 hours to your workday will be like. The train ride (LIRR) was just under an hour but door to door, it was at least 2 hours, each way. My quality of life sucked those 3 years. If you won't have to go to the city then this won't matter.

To find out alot of community information visit http://www.SmithtownLuxuryHomes.com, speak with David Nedvin, he lives and works in the area and is very knowledgable.

I have many friends on Long Island and spend many weekends there. The only really big problem I ever have, and its consistent, is the traffic. The traffic on LI is amazing. Suffolk will be less so, but if you're trying to get off the island, you have to pass through the most congested city in the world, so it'll be slow. Some of the areas out on the island are really beautiful though, especially in the summer.

My granfather always said - "You can't beat Long Island. You get the best out of every season and we're located near the greatest city in the world."

In terms of towns and schools - just google them and get info there right. Do you have anyone who's going to work for you to find a place?

I love it here, of course I live near the beaches and when the weather is warm Long Island is heaven.

As a Broker, I can direct you easily to sites that can discuss the quality of schools as they relate to their overall placements in several categories that demonstrate the scholastic achievements of their students.
There are very, very, few school districts that as a former educator, I would be cautious of. That said, I believe that, as you know, the quality of life is completely subjective as it relates only to what your own definition is. Look for aesthetic and environmental parameters and you will find your search alot more focused. Feel free, if you like, to send me parameters that are close you your heart and I can begin narrowing down your scope. This is the least we can do for members of our Realtor community.

If you're talking as a real estate broker and wondering about the quality of "work" life, fasten your seatbelt.