Which subdivision of Northbrook is better (Chicago, Highland: for sale, home sales, neighborhoods)

[In search for house]

My husband and I are looking for a 2-3 bedroom house in Northbrook in a better school district. Out budget is 400K+. I would appreciate any information about the nicer subdivisions in Northbrook. Our priorities: good school for kids and convenient commute to Chicago. Thanks!

[ahava]

I'm not sure how you define the "nicer" subdivisions (bigger houses? closer to parks? more friendly? more prestigious?) but these are the neighborhoods I like in Northbrook:
-Sutton Point (either side of Sanders Rd just south of Dundee Rd): It's close to the huge park next to Wood Oaks JH, and it's a quiet area. It's also close to I-294 if you're commuting to Chicago by car.
-Highlands (bordered by Dundee Rd, Meadow Rd, Cherry Ln, and Western Ave): I have a coworker who lives here and really likes it. It's close to downtown Northbrook and the Metra station if you're commuting to Chicago that way. It's also in school district 28 which is the best of the districts in Northbrook, in my opinion.

[middle-aged mom]

I have a high level awareness of Northbrook. Last year home sales closed in the $500-700K range. Right now, all homes for sale are in the $600's

The Highlands are all across the board, ranging from $400 for a 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1 car garage, without basement to $1MM+. Sounds to me like the area may be ripe for tear downs. If so, this means the value of a small house is tied to the value of the land.

I defer to anyone who really knows the area.