[quote=jimmyle]I have seen a few properties in PQ that list in the low 400’s. They are generally older homes but still look good. Here is an example:

http://www.sdlookup.com/MLS-100067526-15375_Paseo_Ajanta_San_Diego_CA_92129

Initially I also looked in CV, PQ and MM. However, I quickly found out that I can never buy a home in CV with a maximum budget of $500K. Then, it was between PQ and MM for me. I ended up choosing MM because it is close to my in-laws and we plan to have a kid and my mother in law will be the baby sitter. My wife also likes to be close to her parents. So because of personal reasons I chose the nicer part of MM which is around Calle Cristotal on the NW side of MM. And for the same price, you can get a better home in MM compared to PQ.

PQ schools are excellent. However, like AN has mentioned, MM schools are above average if you judge them by API scores. That said, I still like PQ better than Mira Mesa and I suggest that you look there first.[/quote]

Thanks jimmyle. I think I will have to expand my search to include NW MM since it is close to my work. Per AN, the elementary schools are good so it might be a good place for a starter home.