if you're moving to Palo ALto for the schools, go somewhere else. The high test scores are due to the smart kids who live in the city, with smart parents, not because the schools are good. The good schools are a myth. The elementary and middle schools are OK, but nothing special at all. Once you get to the high schools though, forget it! Nothing innovative or new, the English is from 20 years ago, science not taught well, curriculum is ho hum - not much hands on learning, just dull academic book learning. some teachers can't speak English but expect the kids to learn high level math anyway, etc. - many teachers are apathetic or hostile or just plain overworked. Kids are given so much homework they can't manage the stress, and just look at what's going on at Gunn. So don't move into some cramped house near 101 just for the schools. The rest of the "charm" of Palo Alto you can get in many other less expensive towns in the area.

Bump for more opinions =) I was looking at Altaire but their inability to budge deterred me from further negotiation, even with an agent there. Is this a good growth opportunity purchase for the upcoming 5 years?

Anymore opinions on Altaire? I'm very interested in this development and the JCC is a big incentive for me. I see promising growth for this development around this area. Are my notions correct?

Hi Shrik,

The Townhomes in Palo Alto are good, location is good too, close enough access to freeways, Palo Alto is a good Buy. Traffic - you can expect what is normal for city living, noise level inside the homes would be minimum as being new homes they will all have double paned windows.
Schools- Fairmeadows Elementary, J L Stanford Middle and Gunn High; all very good schools!
They are about ready to start selling the first phase. PLEASE, go with a Realtor the FIRST time you visit them as your Realtor needs to be REGISTERED with you, so that he/she can Negotiate on your behalf. Yes they will give specials, and will negotiate on the price in this market environment!
I have put other clients into new homes and negotiated VERY WELL for them. If you need referrals I can provide you with some. I will be happy to take you over and get you into a new home! Would prefer to sit down with you, find out your Real Estate needs, and help you Best meet them!
Please contact me, 408-7773823.
Thanks,
Nina Daruwalla