I agree that the Bay Collection is wonderful and defintely worth a look. With that said there are a couple differences that are positives for Encinitas Ranch

Further South
Encinitas is essentially built out and has a sense of community/character/history that Carlsbad never will.
Golf Course AND Ocean View community
Quieter Location away from busy streets
Better School District

Regarding quality, most of what has hit the resale market on Lynwood in Encinitas Ranch were not the prime locations or well upgraded homes. Many were bought by speculators. Also, the big upgrade everything push didnt become the market standard when these homes were built. Buyer expectations have defintely risen. I have been in several Lynwood homes of longtime residents of the area who bought for the long haul and their homes are spectacular in every way.

On the other hand, every home In The Bay Collection that I have ever seen was highly upgrded.