“You seem to be happy with your purchase, though, right? Did you buy a comparable house? In a way, I’m envious of your position; at least you are done! ;)”

We are very happy with our purchase. We ended finding something in Mission Hills with the kind of privacy and lot size that you would expect in La Costa Estates or Mt. Helix. We didn’t get much of a house but it is a retirement home so we really didn’t need much.

As you know, there are many wonderful neighborhoods in San Diego County and that one up near Obelisco is an area we really liked probably starting back in the late 90’s. You are correct in that we would have been very happy in the neighborhood and I think if you can get past the high school issue that may well be a great fit for you and your family as well. Honestly, I think the area has lost some of its cache after they dumped La Costa Ridge and La Costa Greens right next to it which increased the traffic and congestion. That may be another reason why we are seeing cracks in the property values.

Another area we really like in the county is Mt. Helix. I know you guys want to be in North County, but when I drive up onto Mt. Helix I am reminded of why I love San Diego … beautiful custom estate homes on large lots, all unique and well maintained, and most with great views. That location is hard to beat as well but again you have to deal with the schools and being close to your employment.

Anyway, I honestly thought that we were going to end up either in La Costa Estates or Mt. Helix and it was just a matter of waiting for the right opportunity.

Then along came the place in Mission Hills and it seemed like it satisfied our strong desire for privacy and lot size but came with the added bonus of being both coastal and close to downtown, Balboa Park, Coronado, etc.

CAR, it does sound like from some of your posts that you are also looking at quite a few parts of the county. I personally think this is a great idea because it really does give you a lot more options.