About Mission Viejo's Madrid

I don't have an Infinity Pool.....you know, those beautiful azure blue pools which look like they just merge into the ocean beyond? Yep....not me!

I have a basic backyard pool! And it's filled to the brim.

Now, I happen to know that when the pool over-flows, the water does drain down the side of the house. HOW do I know this? (cough, cough) well turns out that if you don't watch the water rise when you fill the pool....you might leave to go shopping and leave it on.....I hear. Oops!

But this time....not my fault! It's just raining, and raining, and raining. Like the old El Nino Days....and even as I'm heading out to get a few sandbags (just to be safe) as a true Californian......I still can't begrudge the rain. I hear we need it.

The Season of Lights is in full swing! We were returning from dinner with the granddaughter when we passed a local neighborhood that was literally lit up like a Christmas tree. Can you see the gigantic Santa? Hint: his hat is the red streams of lights on the roof!

As you drive into the neighborhood from the main street, you are dazzled with the "Santa Claus" house. Covered with thousands of lights, this place is a visual overload. This is definately the most decorated home on the street but the neighbors have all decorated with their ideas of what Christmas lights should be.

Make sure to drive by in the evenings, bring the kids and cameras. There is even a drop off for a canned food drive so bring some extras. This area if just off Jeronimo Rd. and Marguerite Pkwy in Mission Viejo. From Marguerite, head west to Via Chiapas (the first intersection) and turn right. You can't miss it.

Here's a Google Map Link: Santa Claus House

Mission Viejo, Madrid del Lago Homes Always Popular

Mission Viejo has mostly single family home neighborhoods. When the Mission Viejo Company first tried to lure buyers to this bedroom community in 1967, they did so with large lots and generous floor-plans. This tradition continued as Mission Viejo grew into one of the most popular family cities in Orange County.

One of the most popular tracts were the Madrid Homes. These homes were built near the golf course and in many other pockets all over Mission Viejo. In the 1970s, the Mission Viejo Company began construction on Lake Mission Viejo....a man-made recreational lake which has become the heart of Mission Viejo. Once completed, they began constructing another Madrid tract terracing up the hill overlooking the lake....Madrid del Lago. From the first opening, they have been extremely popular homes.

The Madrid del Lago homes range from 2200 sq.ft. single level homes up to 5 bedroom 3500 sq.ft. houses. Many of these homes are nicely situated on single loaded streets and all lead onto lovely walking trails. Because these streets are placed on the hill overlooking the lake, they have great lake views....and most even have additional views of Saddleback Mountain.

What makes these homes so desirable in addition to the views and size is the low tax rate and low association dues. These are among the few housing tracts which give you the size without the Mello-Roos tax. Other neighborhoods which can offer over 3000 sq.ft. are Canyon Crest, Stoneridge and Quail Run....all of which are gated and have Mello-Roos tax and higher association dues. The HOA for the Madrid del Lago is only $64/month.

Of course the Madrid del Lago homes attend terrific schools. Barcelona Hills Elementary School, Newhart Middle School (with it's wonderful music program) and Capistrano Valley High School. With all that Mission Viejo has to offer, buying a Madrid del Lago can be a great first step toward a nice family lifestyle.