plan 2 at Arbor Ranch is 2200 sqft for $400k.

http://www.sdlookup.com/MLS-110022072-1451_Beechtree_Rd_San_Marcos_CA_92078

an SEH 2100 sqft resale is asking $470k

http://www.sdlookup.com/MLS-110006536-1773_Weatherwood_Ct_San_Marcos_CA_92078

another SEH 2300 sqft short sale just sold for $440k

both the resale and the short sale already have landscaping done. you’ll probably need to spend another $50k for a new home that size, which means essentially you’ll pay the same price in the end but end up getting very different environment and schools.

good job on saying no!