Concho… Hardly the next Commandant, but have done okay since the days long ago when I was but a wide-eyed recruit at MCRD. Agree about the cost; 800k is the max I’m looking at now in anticipation of those prices falling to a level where I can buy (maybe ~700k). Plus, we did okay in our prior houses, save regularly and live very modestly so I’ll be in a pretty good position if/when the time comes to buy a place to homestead.

For those rec’ing the coast; don’t you get a lot more for the $$$ inland? We’d like to get into 4 BRs (to have one-per and a guest/office) and have some yard as well – can you still do that on the coast? Plus – surprised to hear the 15 is that much worse than the 5; the handful of times I had to drive to the Naval Station from CPen to embark the 5 was a complete mess.

Kicksavedave – thanks for the link. I’d excluded all “N/A” lot sizes on my searches ‘cause I have some visceral objection to detached condos but can’t really justify same. Might just have to reconsider.

PerryChase – might certainly be a bit too soon to buy. We’ve still got a pretty decent place in O’Side and moving back in would reset my capital gains shelter. For that matter, we could always add on to it to make it work for a longer term and the Prop 13 advantage is not insignificant. But, very much want to give my kids the opportunity that I had – to stay in the same schools for their adolescent years. IOT do that, we’d much rather “move up” in the world.

Again, thanks to all for helping shape my focus… SF!