Apartment Review for Villa Venetia - Costa Mesa, CA

I have lived in Villa Venetia since March of 2007. Location: close proximity to the center of Costa Mesa, shopping, music, walking, entertainment and dining. There is a park right behind the apartments for walking (yourself, with friends, pets), running, playing badminton. All within walking distance (about 15-20 min) to Von's, CVS, Starbucks, hairdresser, nail salon, sushi, fast food, dry cleaners, Blockbuster and many other retailers. No, they are not paying me for an advertisement; I actually walk to these places of my own accord. Office staff: respond to requests and address questions. At that time when not sure of the answer, Debbie has been especially good in that respect, information was noted, further research performed and gotten back to me every time in a timely manner. When I was ready for a bigger apartment, Julian kept an eye out and paid attention in finding the right apartment, rather than just trying to give me anything available. They know me by name and I don't feel like a guest around the office or with the staff. Maintenance: being a finicky tenant, when I see something in need of fixing, I open a Service Request. All the ones I have opened have been completed and in timely manner and Juan and Bernabe are knowledgeable and cheerful. Noise level: yes, sometimes I can hear my neighbor playing a flute, and kids playing outside by the pool, but I can also hear birds sing. It is an apartment home, and not a separate house, so let's be somewhat reasonable. Parking: I happen to have a garage, so parking is not an issue. When my friends do come over, they actually enjoy a 10-15 minute walk from Von's parking lot and through the lakes of Villa Venetia. I often hear of people talking about overeating, under exercising and generally not being healthy - 10 -15 minute walk seems pleasant and does not hurt. My friends did not mind and actually enjoyed it. Room for improvement: maintenance of the water of the lakes could be improved - cleaner is always better, less floating old leaves and dirt especially in one spot. My favorite part about Villa Venetia as my home: whether from the inside of my apartment through sliding glass door or on the patio, or on the bench by the water day and night I enjoy watching ducks swim and play and chase each other; squirrels running up and down the trees; turtles sitting out catching some sun on the shore of the lake and herons that come to visit ( a tall grey one and a white one with yellow feet). It is peaceful and quiet, especially weekend mornings with a cup of coffee in the shade of the huge evergreens. Overall: a very happy tenant :)