New homes in Yorba Linda and Placentia - Need opinion

[ps_fan_2003_IHB]

Hi Folks,



I'm new to this forum, but have been a silent reader for the past couple of months. My husband and I have been waiting to buy our first home, watching from the sidelines through the WTF market, trying not to be knifecatchers now.



Our target is Irvine of course, schools being the main reason. Our price range in 600-650k for a SFR, we are discouraged by the Mello Roos and the size of home (or rather lack of a yard) that is available for that price in Irvine.



We have been looking into Fullerton, Yorba Linda area as well. We are mostly looking into existing homes, but visted a couple of new communities recently



What is the general opinion from IHBers on these developments



1. Tierra at Villagio in Yorba Linda

http://www.shapell.com/ss/find/tierra/overview.cfm



2. Crescent Heights in Placentia

http://www.livecrescentheights.com/



We liked the floor plans better than Bougainvillea in Portola Springs, the price ranges are comparable. However, we are not sure about the neighborhood or schools in Placentia, Yorba Linda.



Your inputs are much appreciated.

 

[BurnedbyToll_IHB]

I actually put down a deposit at Crescent Heights and cancelled within the 3 days and got my money back. I loved the floor plans but it is not a good area and Yorba Linda has and holds home values much better than Placentia (I did alot of research after writing my check). Ultimately I realized it was a great house in the wrong area. I toured Tierra but didn't investigate in depth because I would have to have a driveway and none of those do. Being near the new Yorba Linda High School has helped this development tremendously. Have you looked at resales in the San Lorenzo community just up the street from Tierra in Bastanchury?

 

[xoneinax_IHB]

Yeah, Placentia has some low-level gang activity. And I doubt the schools are as good as Yorba Linda ?