If you are not familiar with the area, you shouldnt be buying a home in Poway. Not because it is Poway, but because you shouldnt be buying houses in areas you know nothing about.

Rent something in Poway and get a feel for it. Scripps Ranch and Escondido and Rancho Bernardo/penesquitos border Poway and you may end up liking those areas better than others. Infact if the reason your looking is off Scripps Poway parkway, you may actually be closer to Scripps or Rancho Bernardo than alot of Poway.