Favorite MPC? (Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler: schools, live in, move)

[dgfurman]

We're planning on relocating to Phoenix within the next couple of years, and I've been doing a lot of research on master planned communities. So far I'm really liking what I've seen about EMR, but I'd like to know what you think, or your experiences have been, with MPCs. The good, the bad, the ugly. I've also seen that there are some new Blanford communities in Mesa, but I can't seem to get any good info on them - too new maybe.

My husband will have to commute to Phoenix (downtown) but he says he doesn't mind, but still, I think a commute of an hour or more will make him crazy.

Also, does anyone have any links to websites where I can find out info about the school systems and how they rank. We have 3 preschoolers now that will be starting school soon, so that's a concern as well. Thanks!

[hts]

If you're considering Estrella, I'd highly recommend you check out Anthem as well. Depending on the time of day, it might be an hour commute from Anthem to downtown, but if he has a flexible work schedule, it could be done in 45 minutes (possibly less).

[dgfurman]

Definately will check that one out too, thanks. I did hear that it was kind of out in the middle of nowhere tho.

[vegaspilgrim]

What about Fulton Ranch in south Chandler? Very nice part of town, and much "closer in" than some of these other master planned communities around the valley.

[dgfurman]

Originally Posted by vegaspilgrim

What about Fulton Ranch in south Chandler? Very nice part of town, and much "closer in" than some of these other master planned communities around the valley.

Haven't heard about that one. Thanks, will def. check it out.

[mycrazylife]

We don't live in EMR...but we have driven around "up there" a few times, just to check it out and really, really liked it alot.
As far as schools go, try GreatSchools.net
Overall, Arizona consistently ranks pretty low as far as education goes... But if you are proactive with your children's education, it will be okay.

[dgfurman]

Originally Posted by mycrazylife

We don't live in EMR...but we have driven around "up there" a few times, just to check it out and really, really liked it alot.
As far as schools go, try GreatSchools.net
Overall, Arizona consistently ranks pretty low as far as education goes... But if you are proactive with your children's education, it will be okay.

Thanks for the tip. I'll bookmark that now.

[sablebaby]

Originally Posted by mycrazylife

We don't live in EMR...but we have driven around "up there" a few times, just to check it out and really, really liked it alot.
As far as schools go, try GreatSchools.net
Overall, Arizona consistently ranks pretty low as far as education goes... But if you are proactive with your children's education, it will be okay.

Curious of the "up there" statement. Where are coming up there from? EMR is in the SW part of the metro area. Just wondering if you're confusing it with somewhere else.

[mycrazylife]

Sorry for the confusion. I was meaning "up there" as it's nestled in the Estrella foothills (I guess that's what it considered?) So it kind of feels like going up into the "mountains" lol. But yeah, it was EMR that I was talking about, for sure! Love it there...wish I did live there.

[Great Joy]

Estrella and Anthem are beautiful. Verrado, Arrowhead, and Vistancia are very nice too. There are other great ones around Phoenix, which I'm sure others will share. We live in Vistancia, and would only choose a MPC community if we ever move again. MPCs do a great job of bringing residents together through events and loads of amenities, so our circle of friends has grown fast and continues to grow.