Back on topic (though I love zombies):
I think the "Low $800s" has to be a typo considering Maricopa starts in the "High $700s" and Mendocino is smaller than Maricopa. While somewhat recycled, I think these floorplans have some smart choices:
1. A loft in Plan 1 in lieu of the downstairs den/room to conserve footprint space
2. Laundries upstairs (subjective I know... but if anyone has had an upstairs laundry, they can tell you how much more convenient it is)
3. En-suite(?) bathrooms in Plan 3 ala Lambert Ranch
4. Usage of most of 2nd floor space (esp above garage)
I don't mind that dead space in Plan 2, instead of a piano you can put a desk there, cabinets, book shelves, etc etc.
I find the 2x plans interesting because I assume they are built for the corner units and are done that way to maximize lot usage. By having a driveway up front and the door on the side, they don't have to construct a large sideyard wall and use up more space on the street.
At roughly the same price points, I think these Mendocino plans beat out the Montecito plans in Woodbury.