Looking at Apartments in Aliso Viejo (Irvine, Pasadena: apartment complexes, rentals, hotel)

[whatawookiee]

My wife and I are relocating to the Aliso Viejo area for a job and we're looking at several apartment complexes there, many of which are (thankfully) within walking distance of my new job. Can anyone recommend any complexes in the area to definitely check out or stay away from? Neighboring communities would also be alright, though obviously not being able to get to work without a car would be points deducted.

We're looking for a 2 bedroom apartment that allows pets, those are pretty much the only "must haves" on our list.

Thanks for your advice!

[pacific2]

　
　
I stayed at Alicante when I first moved to Aliso and liked it. It’s very pet friendly and accepts certain large breed dogs. My apartment had a gated balcony that was convenient for having a small container garden; and for letting my spoiled pooch sunbathe while he got to know his neighbors. Another good thing about Alicante is that maintenance seems to be a top priority, and it’s pretty obvious once you enter the grounds. It's located just a bit south of Town Center.
Alicante Apartment Homes

I haven’t had any experience with City Lights, but it’s right at Town Center, so it would put you within very easy walking distance of most corporate offices:
Pasadena Apartments, Irvine Apartments, Shea Apartment Communities

BTW, Panera Bread is now at the Commons in Aliso, and some people take their pooches there while they dine outside, soak up sunrays and people watch. Also, the PetSmart Pets Hotel, located at Town Center, is fantastic for doggie day camp or overnight stays. One of my dogs attends their doggie day camp about 3-4 times a week.

You might find this thread to be useful:
Making the move from UK to Aliso Viejo

[VeronikaW]

I live in Barcelona Apartments. I'm not overly thrilled with them. We had some issues with mold in our apartment, and they weren't very helpful. Also, it's relatively noisy, and people let their dogs poop everywhere, which is really sucky when your toddlers go to play in the grass. They are the same company that owns St. Moritz, just FYI. As with almost every other complex I've ever lived in it's not too bad until you actually experience a problem in your unit. Luckily we're just here temporarily.

V. =)

[killer2021]

Originally Posted by VeronikaW

I live in Barcelona Apartments. I'm not overly thrilled with them. We had some issues with mold in our apartment, and they weren't very helpful. Also, it's relatively noisy, and people let their dogs poop everywhere, which is really sucky when your toddlers go to play in the grass. They are the same company that owns St. Moritz, just FYI. As with almost every other complex I've ever lived in it's not too bad until you actually experience a problem in your unit. Luckily we're just here temporarily.

V. =)

Thats apartment life for ya!

[Coldjensens]

Maybe you can find a house to rent.

[pacific2]

While renting a house is an option, there are lots of other apartment building in Aliso besides Barcelona and St. Moritz, so the OP can choose from a variety of places to stay. I had no problems at Alicante, and I met a number of people while living there, and none of them ever complained about the place. It’s quiet, professionally managed and well-maintained. They make a real effort at providing good customer service. Besides, they do a lot of corporate business (short stays) and I don’t think they want to spoil their reputation. I met a Texas couple who were there for 6 months during an extended business trip, enjoyed their experience, and dreaded returning home.