Archive for July, 2008

Interview for the LA Times

July 21, 2008

I was contacted by a reporter from the LA Times who wanted to interview residents for an article regarding the Soco Walk Community.  I was asked to forward on the request for participation.

Paloma Esquivel sends:

My name is Paloma Esquivel and I’m a reporter at the Los Angeles Times. I’m working on a story about projects like SoCo Loft in Orange County and would like to speak with you if you’re available – I’m looking to speak to people who live in the complex to find out why they chose it, how it’s been etc.

Please give me a call or shoot me an e-mail if you’re available to chat.

Thanks,

Paloma

My direct line here is 714-966-5985.

Paloma Esquivel

Staff Writer

Los Angeles Times

1375 Sunflower Avenue

Costa Mesa, Ca 92626

Direct: 714-966-5985

800 LA TIMES, Ext. 65985

Fax: 714-966-7711

E-mail: paloma.esquivel@latimes.com

Electrical Closets Update

July 21, 2008

Locks have now been installed on the electrical closet doors throughout the community.  This should deter against criminal activity and squatting occurring in and around these areas.

I haven’t heard word yet on how to get a hold of the key in case of emergency and there is a need to get to the water main inside the closets.

If anyone else knows, please share.

New Palm Trees

July 21, 2008

There are new palm trees being replaced at various locations around the community.  Please be aware that some traffic will occur.  Please use caution around turns; oncoming bulldozers don’t brake very well.

Blind turns inside complex

July 16, 2008

I have received numerous warnings from residents about the blind turns at the Sales Center.  Especially during this time of high construction activity, please do take extra care around making those turns towards the loft or townhome sides.  It is very hard to see oncoming traffic due to the fencing and/or building.  It is especially difficult coming around the Sales Office into the loft side, as construction/Olson reps park their vehicles behind that garage, making that pass even more narrow.

Thanks.

Final Loft building goes vertical

July 14, 2008

I just happened by the sales center this morning and saw that the construction on the final loft building has begun.  No traffic reports yet, but I would expect congestion in the area soon.

Walk-through Checklist

July 8, 2008

So I got this idea for a fun little post.  Being that in the coming months we are going to get a huge influx of new neighbors, I figured we can put together a great list of things to watch out for when they do their move-in walk-through.

This list is cool because it will be a “custom tailored” list composed of items current Soco Walk residents found during their walk-throughs (or months after).

Feel free to comment and add to the list.  I’ll start it off:

1. Check that your front door(s) all close and lock and open easily.

2. Carefully look at the walls from every angle.  Make sure there are no scratches, dings, or uneven paint/texturing.  Look out for huge cracks too.

3. Make sure all the screws are properly installed on each step of the stairs.

4. Check the finishing around the handrails.  It probably will be rough.

5. Check around the a/c ducting where it connects to the walls.  Make sure the finishing isn’t rough.

6. If applicable, carefully walk the carpet and feel for any lumps underneath, especially around the walls and the closet floor rails.  Don’t be suprised if underneath there are nails, newspapers, or construction debris.

7. Check underneath the edge of the counters on the island.  Make sure they are painted/finished properly.

8. You probably won’t check, but if you can look above the cabinets in the kitchen.  You might get lucky and find a lost hammer like I did.  Otherwise, they should be properly cleaned.

9. Check for dings and scratches on the tub and shower enclosures.

10. Check all the bedroom and closet doors function properly.

Well, there is so much more but that is all I can come up with.  I remember hearing horror stories from other neighbors, so if you are out there, please let us hear your stories/tips.

Have fun and welcome to the neighborhood!

Graffiti on the Pavement

July 6, 2008

A Resident sends:

“There are a couple of graffiti tags on the walkway pavement between the church and the new construction.  There was also an attempt to  etch “FTT” into the newly paved walkways in front of the new buildings.”

Where did the Design Center go?

July 4, 2008

I have gotten a few emails on the subject of the Design Center.  Does anyone know of its whereabouts?  It was supplanted when they sold the unit.

On a similar note, the third story loft model is now in escrow.

Soco Walk Sold Out!

July 4, 2008

So I was able to drop by the Sales Center the other day and found out that all of the units are sold!  Of course none went for the prices that the units were initially billed at a couple of years ago, but all I could gather is that they all went for something in the mid-high $400s.

Everyone should be moved in by December.  Let the mad dash for parking spots begin.

Have a happy 4th!