Thanks for the QoL answers, I got a quick synoptic answer!
I have been lurking here for a short while, and reading many of the regional threads.
What are suggestions for next steps in trying to research the regionals? Their web-sites are 'rah 'rah, and I have mined plenty of information here.
I don't have that many names, since I am limited to NYC/PHL airports - lots of Legacy, but a narrow selection of regionals.
I want to apply by mid-Jan
Also what is the best way to prepare for the interviews? I see people talk about studying the questions on their web-sites, but I must be too stupid - I did not see them.
I am up to speed on airlineapps, but trying to figure out which interview gouge, and if I really need paid interview prep... opinions please

 

https://www.aviationinterviews.com

This was spot on for PSA

 

aviationinterviews.com is probably the best place for gouge.

If you want to drive to work at EWR CommutAir would be the place to be.

If you're willing to drive to JFK/LGA you should investigate Endeavor or Envoy.

Bottom line, apply to all three and whenever you get an offer then you'll have a decision to make.

 

As far as research, this is how I personally went about it -

Looked at the pilot domicile map and identified places I'd be willing to live.

Interviewed at all the places that had domiciles in places i was willing to live.

Accepted the position at the place that had a combination of factors that suited my liking -

1. Pay - nothing beats the reason why we go to work, green stuff in the pocket
2. Little or short reserve
3. Relatively quick upgrade
4. The illusory comfort of the flow in the back pocket; I haven't yet finished my degree so... but I haven't forgotten what happened to American Eagle either... (though 824(?) eventually still flowed)

Based on what you said I would be looking for a one leg commute to a good company with a short reserve list. Being in base is only super important for being on Reserve though living in base might improve quality of life while holding a line too. If you want to drive to the bases you are talking about then I personally only would be looking at Piedmont in PHL or Endeavor in LGA. With the huge amount of growth at PSA and opening of DCA base I would seriously look at one leg commute availability options for PSA. If you really want to fly and upgrade PSA is the flavor of the month.

 

Being in base IS important when on RSV, but it is just as important if one wishes to pick up extra flying. Which yields more money and more block time. Which is important to some.

 

Thanks to all...
Yes, forgot to mention that I had also signed up with aviationinterviews.com, but there are many gouges out there....
I am quite convinced that I want to be at NYC/PHL airports - there is enough business here that there should be options. While useful on reserve, @HighFlight pointed out that its useful for later too.
Commute time is dead time - no matter how you put it. I am 1:45 from PHL, and even that gives me pause (PDT). With CommutAir, RAH & ExpressJet right here in EWR, 20 mins away, have to give it a shot.
Given my goal of trying to fly heavy iron, maybe a WO is better, but that is what I am trying to figure out. I have time.
I really appreciate the feedback - please feel free to PM with opinions that you would rather not air in public

 

as I said it might improve your quality of life - if something pops up in open time and you don't mind the extra days from home, though your wife might...

Driving in your car(commuting) to the airport is dead time...

Driving in your car to crappy employer is want to be dead time....

Only one on your EWR list I would consider would be CommutAir since they have the United Pathway but that isn't a guaranteed thing as you still need to have a degree and pass a United interview (Hogan test)

Rjet has 4-5 year upgrades and from what I understand from friends that work there - and your mileage may vary depending on your likes/dislikes - is that the lines suck and management is even worse. Also, Rjet new hire sales pitch revolves around shiny jet and future contracts with AA in ORD which they didn't get and 24 jets from United which they only got 12... i have no doubt that there are people that like working there however and have good lines... caveat emptor

Xjet... where to start.... 10 years to upgrade, 2 years of reserve.... nothing else needs to be said....

two cents worth.

 

I requested opinions, and I thank you for yours.
Commuting is dead time - fortunately, EWR is 20 mins only.
I repeatedly read unhappiness with ExpressJet - though their postcard is what got me started on this quest.
Republic seems to be turning around after their Ch 11, and seems a step above EJ.
CommutAir seems like one would end up in dash 8s - and earn time that is not as valued as jet time....

 

Sure thing, I am trying to help and it is just an opinion.

I do believe you are highly under rating the quality of commuting to a good line with a good carrier.

Its your choice after all, in my humble opinion - commuting to a carrier where you can quickly gain seniority and bid a very good "commutable" line beats a short drive where you gain little to no seniority to have a crappy line. The difference being you can bid and hold the monthly paycheck and schedule you want vs hoping to pick up over time on your day off to make up for your crappy line. The other major difference is holding down a pretty good 3 - 4 year FO pay rate vs knocking down 1 - 2 year Captain pay... :shrug: C'est la vie good luck.

 

@PleaseComplete - would you please pose an example, comparing my locals - AWAC, CommutAir, Endeavor, Envoy, ExpressJet, Piedmont and Republic to one of the "better" ones.
I'm not challenging, just asking for something to work with...