It Only Took Seven Years...

Seemingly ages ago, I set up a reminder in Google to alert me when there were news items about Highgrove, the luxury condo complex a stone's throw from our place.

It seemed like a good idea at the time because in 2005, it seemed like only a matter of time before the fancy neighbors would be bringing in the big bucks. I'd like to be in the loop.

I'd long forgotten about the Google alert, so my eyebrows went up through my hairline when I got an alert this evening saying Highgrove would go up for rent starting next month! Wha...!!

I must say, I'm really happy it won't be an empty shell, but it's remarkable to think of how far it's fallen. Back in the day, circa 2006, there was a promotional for the condos - starting at $2.3 million - you could get your own puppy. I remember thinking, that better be a damned fine dog.

Fast forward to 2010 and delay after delay, there were at least four lawsuits pending. In 2011, the whole thing went into foreclosure and had a total of zero bidders. I'd nearly given up on it, and figured it was a pretty bookend to our block, but the Stamford Advocate tells me Starwood has since stepped in and there will be a grand opening in the late summer (which sounds about like right now).

Rental prices will be from $4,000 to $9,000 - downright cheap when compared to a multi-million dollar mortgage. The article's positive outlook on rentals in our area made me smile too. Rent, own - whatever - just come sustain downtown fun and games, and I'm happy.

Ok so they don't get a new puppy, but our new neighbors get a pretty nice little corner of the world - and if they bring their pocketbooks along with them - maybe they'll help make it even nicer.