I lived in the Gardens from 2000 to the beginning of 2004. While I lived there, things in general were good, but starting to deterioriate in terms of the "quality" of people moving into the Gardens/Ridge areas. There is a vast mix of section 8 types and numerous NYC people now. I have a friend that still lives in the Gardens today, and just from my visits to his apartment, the kids running around are dirty, unsupervised punks, and the adults are not much better.
When you are looking for an apartment, there are a lot more things to consider than asthetics. Who are your neighbors' Are you near a basketball/tennis court' Pool' These are high visible high traffic areas so expect noise. Consider construction quality- can you hear your neighbors' Every leasing agent is nice, and will promise you the world, but once you're in, forget it.
For the money charged today, these apartments are reasonable (and I use that term lightly; it is rediculous to charge residents extra for the so called fitness center and pool). The grounds are satisfactory, maintenance very very good, office staff marginal. If you can afford a bit more than the $965 for a two bedroom, I recommend checking out Kensington Manor which is a lot better and safer.
Personally, I would not move back into Imperial Gardens if I had to today.
FYI: Do NOT use the pool unless you like to swim in urine. The Orange County Dept. of health closes it down usually twice a year for high ammonium hydroxide (urine).

User Responses
From: donerentinggardens	Date: 02/14/2006
This opinion is on par with past reviews written about this property, especially when it comes to the "class" of people. Case in point: Follow this link to an article regarding an attempted robbery at the Gardens: http://www.th-record.com/archive/2006/02/07/brf982.htm<

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