I personally love the heights, but it really depends what you're looking for. I have no interest in the "luxury" buildings which feel like they are in conflict with the character of the neighborhood (mostly two family homes, many of them from the 19th century). It's primarily a diverse, working class (although gentrifying), relatively safe neighborhood with nice parks and wonderful restaurants from many nationalities on Central Ave. The neighborhood feels pretty similar to Astoria. Personally, Central Ave is my favorite part of living here because we have our own walkable downtown with most things that you need and lots of affordable and interesting food options. But if Central Ave didn't appeal to you, then this might not be the right neighborhood for you-- I love supporting the longstanding mom and pop businesses, and I would hope that people moving here would also have an appreciation for the special qualities of the heights.