Recently I had a client contact me about buying a home in Gilbert. We talked about what she wanted, her priorities, etc. One of the things she mentioned is a strong distaste for the massive power lines that run East/West about half way between Guadalupe and Elliot Roads. Let’s not forget the large power substation that is located at Val Vista Rd and Warner Rd. Large power lines run North/South between Val Vista and Greenfield.

Now some people really don’t mind the power lines, as long as they’re not ridiculously close to their house (bad for resale value). Running underneath the power lines are well maintained green spaces perfect for running, walking dogs, biking, or riding horses. The popular Freestone Park is included in this instance.

This client and I had to get clear, some people just don’t want to see the power lines, but she didn’t want to be within a mile of them. Which takes out a decent chunk of Gilbert. Especially since she still wanted a family friendly neighborhood, great schools, and a good commute for her husband who works in downtown Phoenix.

I thought other buyers looking on the internet might want some advice in that area as well, since you might be searching for homes for sale online, without really knowing where the power lines are. So here’s some popular neighborhoods you might have to avoid.

Along the East/West route, if you want to be at least a mile away you will definitely have to steer clear of Higley Groves and Morrison Ranch. Also Val Vista Lakes and many of the custom Circle G neighborhoods.

On the North/South route, the nicest neighborhood is Finley Farms, also Cottonwood Crossing and more custom home areas. If you’re really sticking to the ” one mile clearance”, you’ll have to eliminate Western Skies Golf Estates, as well as Neely Commons.

All of those neighborhoods mentioned are really wonderful family friendly communities. So if it’s okay to be 1/4 or a 1/2 mile away from the power lines, these neighborhoods are really worth checking out.

So, let’s put our thinking caps on. Given the criteria of decent commute, friendly neighborhood, good schools, with a mile clearance given to Power Lines, that leaves us with…

You could go for the north end of Val Vista Lakes. I really love the friendly feel of that neighborhood, the lakes are pretty, the recreation club is fantastic, and the school is quite noteworthy. Plus, you don’t get a better location for Gilbert’s commute to downtown Phoenix.

If custom homes are your thing there is a great pocket of Circle G customs, south of Baseline Rd, just west of Power. Not too many people know about them and it’s a really excellent location with a great elementary school.

Heading south (and away from the freeway), you take out a whole big chunk for the power lines and you end up with the South Gilbert communities. Jakes Ranch, Agritopia, Lindsay Ranch, Gateway Village, Spectrum, Ahsland Ranch, Vintage Ranch…there really are so many family oriented neighborhoods in Gilbert, all with excellent schools.

To search for homes in a particular neighborhood, just click “Search for Homes” above, and enter in the community name under “Subdivision”. You’ll be well on your way to your dream home in some of the best neighborhoods!!