Hi MpJuly.
For the past several years I lived in a neighborhood very close to Lucerna. It was called Lomisa. Some of other posters are correct. It is a nice area that is surrounded by bad areas. Like an enclave. Very nice houses etc. This part of the city is not at all close to Santo Domingo Proper, I would even say it lays at the outskirts. I left Lomisa maybe 4-5 months ago. At that time it was very common to have electric power for less than 12 hours. In fact I remember many times having only power from 8pm to 6am. Some will disagree with me about this, but I should know as I endured it. Do not expect 24 hour electricity. There have been rumors of improving the electricity in the area, but don't hold your breath.
As stated earlier, water is not a problem if you have a build in water tank. However, when you have no electricty, your house water pump can't pump water through your pipes and into your house. To combat this problem, some people install small gravity operated water tanks (Tinaco) on their roof. When the power goes out and the pump does not work, there is a small reserve of water for use. If your house does not have a Tinaco, you will almost certainly need to install one, unless you don't mind taking baths in the cistern. :ermm:
The worst part about the area is the traffic at the nearby intersection of Carretera Mella and Charles DeGaulle. Absolutely horrific.
As soon as I got the chance I escaped that section of the city and never looked back. I do still prefer the eastern section of the city, just not that section in the north east.
My advise to you is, look elsewhere. I am serious. This neighborhood can push you to your limits.
PM me with any questions. If I can help....... I will.