thanks SDR.
he already knows about the site, but I look forward to him seeing this dialogue.

He loves SB – though pricing is tough.
He likes Elfin, but his wife feels it is too far out.
I believe it would be great for raising kids and will certainly do at least as well as other areas in terms of value.

important (his view) – quick commute to Carlsbad (Palomar airport area within 15-20 mins works well), schools, close enough to beach. not too far from friends in SB, DM, etc.

important (my view) – no big HOA or Mello, relatively good value, unique enough to not drop hard if things go south, land, land, land. manageable mortage and overhead.