birch terrace pleasanton (cul-de-sac, apartments, townhouses)

[ssh123]

hey, i was looking at some town homes in birch terrace, pleasanton. The school district looks good. I am looking at elementary schools. does anyone have any inputs regarding this area? is it a nice neighborhood???

[clongirl]

Overall Pleasanton is pretty safe, however these new townhouses you're talking about are on a particular undesirable street. There are a lot of old apartment buildings surrounding these homes and there is a bit of a "seedy" feel (I wouldn't feel really safe walking around at night). It's just this particular street, however so walk a couple blocks up and the area is nicer. It's not gang territory or anything like that but just a little rundown in spots.

The schools are good and Valley View is the nearest to these homes (walking distance). These homes are very close to the downtown area which is also a plus. This school in particular is probably one of the more diverse (socioeconomic) and you'll find many Spanish speaking children as well.

[socketz]

Valley View is not taking new students next year. The next closest is I believe Vintage Hill, that one is full also. However, any Elementary school they send you to in Pleasanton is fantastic.

As for Birch Terrace, I looked at these homes for almost a month. Loved the home, but thought the area was just 'ok'. My main gripe was that I have little kids and I wanted more of a 'trick or treat' kind of area, cul-de-sacs, kids playing on the sidewalks, etc. That area just doesn't have those features.

Also note that this street/area is considered the 'bad part of Pleasanton'. This is nuts of course because it is considered bad because it has a high percentage of minorities, blue collar workers, apartments and I believe a skateboard was stolen there once in the 1980s. But you will see when you go there....it's pretty harmless. Even late at night, I can't think of anyplace in Pleasanton where you would not feel safe.

BUT....from an investment perspective, I decided not to buy here because I know for certain myself that most of the local realtors steer their clients away from that specific area.

For around the same price, go a little north into areas like Valley View.

[socketz]

Originally Posted by clongirl

Overall Pleasanton is pretty safe, however these new townhouses you're talking about are on a particular undesirable street. There are a lot of old apartment buildings surrounding these homes and there is a bit of a "seedy" feel (I wouldn't feel really safe walking around at night). It's just this particular street, however so walk a couple blocks up and the area is nicer. It's not gang territory or anything like that but just a little rundown in spots.

The schools are good and Valley View is the nearest to these homes (walking distance). These homes are very close to the downtown area which is also a plus. This school in particular is probably one of the more diverse (socioeconomic) and you'll find many Spanish speaking children as well.

My friend lives in Ruby Hills (very upscale) and she sent her kids to Valley View because of the ethnic diversity and the dedication of the parents.