This is a great thread–thanks to all for the fun reading material 🙂

I just wanted to mention that detached homes for $600K do exist in CV–we just bought a 1360 sq ft house near Carmel Creek Elementary. Walking distance to all schools, shopping, playground/park, great family neighborhood, no Mello-Roos, $55/mo HOA.

OK, not so much of a backyard, but the kids can also play in the front yard. And some might think it is too small for a family of 4, but we like the floorplan a lot (no double family/living room) so it is working out fine for us. SO HAPPY with this purchase!