From what I've seen of the north side I wouldn't want to be living further north than nundah. Stafford are a bit to low socio economic calibre of people from where I would want to raise my kids. Hendra easy of nundah might suit your budget
We moved from Sydney and bought on the southside, my advice would be look at the north side, better facilities for young Kids and families.
We find ourselves always driving over the gateway for northside.
