San Diego has always been expensive, and always will be. I bought in May 1998 in Carlsbad, and we thought prices were crazy then, even though prices were barely off the low in hindsight. Perhaps prices will continue to decline from here — the UT reports today we are now down to 2004 levels…factor in inflation and in many areas I think we are off the highs already by 20% — but don’t be surprised if you feel queasy about SD prices no matter when you get in. good luck