Is Ladera Ranch for me? (Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel: 2010, HOA, homes)

[gobruins]

My husband and I live in norcal. We've spent considerable time in LA but not much in OC. We are planning a move in 2009 or 2010 to OC and have heard great things about south county. I have also heard that the housing market in south county (Ladera Ranch in particular) is plummeting. Naturally we think, "Wow- we could find some good deals!" Thoughts on Ladera Ranch as a community? We have a 1-year old and plan to expand our family. We're educated professionals who love the suburbs and enjoy sunshine

[Charles]

Originally Posted by gobruins

My husband and I live in norcal. We've spent considerable time in LA but not much in OC. We are planning a move in 2009 or 2010 to OC and have heard great things about south county. I have also heard that the housing market in south county (Ladera Ranch in particular) is plummeting. Naturally we think, "Wow- we could find some good deals!" Thoughts on Ladera Ranch as a community? We have a 1-year old and plan to expand our family. We're educated professionals who love the suburbs and enjoy sunshine

A lot of people are asking similar questions, so check out the search tool. Couple positives and negatives I have picked up about LR (I have never been there so this is a "virtual" interpretation): School zoning with kids from LR going to two different high schools, one middle school, and three elementary schools. Check HOA and Mello Roos. Lots of neighborhood parks and amenities. Other places with a similar flavor to look at if you like LR (I think these may be subdivisions, cities, or communities): Rancho Santa Margarita, Dove Canyon, Trabuco Canyon, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo, San Clemente. Lots of people may have purchased there at peak prices - who knows what affect this will have on the stability of the community. Check traffic patterns to/from work and to/from shopping.

[bhcompy]

ladera would be a good choice for that if you like the newer upscale looking suburbs. be aware of high property tax and high hoa though

if you want someplace more established in the area you could look at tustin, newport beach, costa mesa country club area, mission viejo, etc

[gobruins]

The school issue is def. worth considering. I will search for other posts about LR too. Thanks!

[cabolissa]

Based on your basic explanation, sounds like a good fit. Homes are VERY close together though, so I hope you're not looking for much yard-space. What's your price range? LR runs between $220-300/Sq Ft currently. Agree with Bhcompy's listed areas to consider. I'd add Rancho Santa Margarita to that list. Very family-friendly and many good deals right now.