I know a guy that bought a 1500 sq ft house in rb/poway some 10 years ago for 250k and just recently sold for 700k and moved to a 4000 sq. ft place on 5 acres in Colorado springs in which he paid cash for.

I like California myself.. but I don’t need a 800k place to feel like I’m in Calfornia.. there are plenty of inexpensive places left if you don’t mind a little commute or can telecommute.