Eastbrook versus College Park? (Orlando, Winter Park: house, neighborhoods, YMCA)

[Herb of Grace]

I posted a while back asking for suggestions for a "hippy/crunchy" neighborhood in Orlando. Everyone was so helpful and many recommended College Park. It does seem to be the best match for our needs, BUT our realtor has just recommended also looking in the Eastbrook--32792 area. Can anyone give us some hints as to how these two neighborhoods compare, in safety, general family-friendly atmosphere and a "crunchy" sensibility?

Thanks so much!!

[Pete C]

I can't think of why that area would be called crunchy by anyone's definition, but maybe I haven't looked hard enough.

[Brasstec]

Used to live in Eastbrook - excellent choice.
You'll get more house there than in College Park for the buck.
Homes in Eastbrook are mostly 70's ranchers, but the neighborhood is good - and your schools are excellent.
Note: The Orange/Seminole county lines run right through the middle of the subdivision.

[pianogal]

Eastbrook is a working class community that doesn't have the reputation of College Park. The homes are probably a little newer than most of the homes in College Park. Most of the homes in Eastbrook were built in the 50's to the early 70's. The northern section in Seminole County holds the newer, bigger homes built in the late 60's - early 70's. All ranch style, with low ceilings and mostly smaller rooms. Most of the homes are around 1300-1800 square feet with 2 car garages. Most of the homes built in the south end (Orange County) are smaller - 1000 - 1500 square feet with carports or 1 car garages because they were built in the 50's - early 60's.

Check which part of the community you live in if schools are a priority. South end is Orange County Schools, North end = Seminole County. There is a small YMCA in the north end of the community with a large pool. There are no community recreational facilities. However, you are just a few blocks from 436 with good shopping - Publix, Ross, Steinmart, etc. on the Orange County end, you are close to Outback and Whole Foods. You are not very close to malls or many restaurants other than fast food if that is important to you. However, you are not far from downtown Winter Park with wonderful restaurants and great atmosphere!!