BobS
Carli raises valid points about the pros and cons of living in Santaluz, and gated communities in general. To each his own.
When my wife and I, semi-retired empty nesters, moved here nearly 3 years ago (yep, at the very peak of the price boom), we fell in love with the open spaces, permanently low density, dark sky policy, and deliberately rustic, prarie landscaping. Escaped a Scripps Ranch house on a terribly busy street–actually a speedway–that was otherwise fine. Didn’t especially like the gated aspect here, for all the “esclusivity” factors Carli mentions. But came to like it for the protection it gives us. We can take trips without security preparations and seldom lock our doors, windows, or vehicles.
The tough CC&Rs are fine–architectural controls, parking restrictions, pet rules, noise rules–I love ’em all. Nothing crazy smacks down your property value or the ambience.
Regarding diversity & demographics: Lots of families (to our surprise), lots of Asians of all types, some retirees, but not too many, and remarkably, no really elderly above 75 that I have seen yet. Maybe the CC&Rs kick you out at age 76.
Note that Santaluz includes tract-type, close together areas WEST of Del Sur with all their attendant parking problems, lack of privacy, foreclosures, etc. Quite a different atmosphere…although to clarify, just north of said neighborhoods are some very low density areas going in that are traditional Santaluz.
Yes, shopping is far away. One learns to consolidate errands.
As to appreciation/depreciation, Raptor is quite aware of likely future trends here. As a newer development with its share of “shaking-out”, and ongoing building on the many lots still available, it doesn’t have the stability of RSF or Fairbanks. OTOH, lots of big, architectually vetted SFRs going up is also a vote of confidence.
We are not into any of the clubs, the gym, pool, golf, or the social scene, but probably would be if we had kids. We love the walking trails, biking possibilities without traffic, the quiet atmosphere. It grows on you.
