Compton, CA 12/5/2008 2:01:59 AM
News / Business

Olson Homes Willow Walk Spotlighted as One of California's Most Successful Redevelopment Communities

The City of Compton's newest residential community, Olson Homes Willow Walk, has been recognized as one of California's most successful redevelopment projects and currently leads the nation in homebuyer satisfaction for new home communities.

The City of Compton's newest residential community, Willow Walk, has been recognized as one of California's most successful redevelopment projects and currently leads the nation in homebuyer satisfaction for new home communities.

Willow Walk in Compton, CA
Willow Walk in Compton, CA

Developed on a 6.5 acre vacant site, the Willow Walk Community was designed by The City of Compton and The Olson Company. This collaboration focused on the enhancement of the local residential and retail business district offering home buyers 124 stylish townhomes in a neighborhood setting just a short walk to Compton's downtown shopping district, services and City Hall.

Residents and local commuters utilize the adjacent MetroLink transit stop at Willow Walk providing convenient, economical transportation options to employment, retail, entertainment and recreation throughout the Los Angeles area. "We are extremely proud of the success Willow Walk has generated for our city and the surrounding region," said Eric Perrodin, Mayor, City of Compton. "This is a good example of a public / private partnership that comes together with a common vision to create affordable home opportunities in a convenient, In-town location," noted Mayor Perrodin.

Willow Walk was recognized as the nation's highest scoring new home community for homebuyer move in & delivery satisfaction according to Eliant, the foremost consumer research company to the new home building industry. Willow Walk scored top honors for buyer surveys from over 173 new home communities throughout the United States for the period of April - September, 2008 and includes 11 criteria such as the sales purchase experience, home options, construction and home readiness.

First time home buyer Sheri Ingram couldn't be happier with her experience. "I chose to buy my new home at Willow Walk because of the affordable pricing, location to transportation and it was close to my job. I could not have made this happen without the help of The City of Compton and The Olson Company," said Ingram, a recent Willow Walk homebuyer.

Developing a new home community within a redevelopment area can have both challenges and opportunities. In the case of Willow Walk, the city and the developer worked together to create a community that was part of the city's master plan while being mindful of the existing neighborhood. "Willow Walk embodies all of the components of a classic redevelopment project. The developer partnered with the local agency to purchase the land which was designated as urban revitalization, is directly adjacent to a regional transportation center and is priced affordably for first time home ownership," said John Shirey, Executive Director, California Redevelopment Association. "This project is a 'flagship model' for others to follow," noted Shirey.

In spite of the current real estate downturn there are many who desire to buy a brand new, state of the art home that is affordable and located In-town versus continuing to rent. "With buyer assistance programs, The City of Compton and The Olson Company are proud to continue to offer the chance to experience the 'Great American Dream' by owning a new home," said Steve Olson, Olson Company CEO/Founder.

About The Olson Company:
Founded in 1988, The Olson Company is California's leading developer of innovative and affordable In-town locations. The Olson Company creates uniquely designed communities which redevelop and enhance neighborhoods utilizing transit-oriented developments, live/work, mixed use developments, brownstones, single family attached and detached homes in partnerships with cities and other agencies. Headquartered in Southern California with regional offices in Northern California, Olson is a recipient of America's "Builder of the Year." Further information about Olson Homes can be obtained online at
http://www.olsonhomes.com/.

Current list of selling Olson California Communities:
Almaden Walk - San Jose
Citrus Walk - Ventura
Cypress Walk - Pacifica
Garden Walk - Hayward
Depot Walk - Orange
Juliette Walk - Buellton
Lotus Walk - Garden Grove
Soco Walk - Fullerton
Village Walk - San Lorenzo
Willow Walk - Compton

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