Visited Capella a few days ago to see how things are progressing. Seems that most homes sold there were on redfin at one time and were bought at huge discounts. Feel sorry for those who bought early or paid full retail. Community felt cramped but it is the most affordable option in the groves. Surrounding area nice and close to the Resort. Offers $27K broker co-op and takes contingent buyers. The ridiculously small backyards have been beaten to death here, but that is a common theme in much of Orchard Hills (and the upcoming Eastwood). The last three phases contained 17 lots, of which only 3 have sold (lots 13, 15 and 55). These lots all had one thing in common - an actual back yard!
We liked plan 2 the best so checked out the three on the price sheet (there were 4 others available). Immediately noticed that lots 21 and 24 were both fully upgraded with a view. Checked them out and both were equally upgraded but 24 was $60K cheaper than 21. The view (plexiglass wall) was primarily looking down on Vicenza and the landscaping hiding the 261 toll way. Was there at 4 PM and you can definitely hear the 261 from the upstairs balcony. It wasn't that close but it seems that the noise carries farther uphill. Later on drove down to Vicenza which is right next to the 261 - a tad bit louder down there. Also looked at lot 51 which didn't have a view or flooring installed. Figured $40K for flooring so lots 51 and 24 were essentially the same price. So lots 24 looked like the best deal - plus you can always offer less.
So naturally I wondered why a view lot (24) was the same price as a non-view lot (51) and why one view lot (24) was less than another view lot (21). Checked the redfin listing and saw the price drops from $1,507,280 to $1,386,330 where it has been for almost 3 months, but no takers. Was thinking about making an offer but one has to be scared to buy something that nobody wants! Could the only "logical" explanation be the curse of the number 4 which sounds like death in Chinese! The address is 114 Long Fence. If you say 114 in Chinese it basically sounds like "Very soon to die". Lot number is 24. If you say 24 in Chinese it sounds like "Easily dying". A double wammy of death! So no Chinese will be buying this property. And I guess they are the only customers for the project as number 4 doesn't have any significant meaning to Koreans, Indians, and that minority - Caucasians.
Capella seems to be a favorite bashing item on these boards, so bash away!
