[quote=AN]Back to the OP, it really depend on the type and age of houses you’re looking for. If I’m looking for a low $1M house, I would consider South West UC, something like this one: http://www.sdlookup.com/MLS-150049752-5561_Stresemann_San_Diego_CA_92122, put $100k to upgrade and spend the other $100-500k in private school.[/quote]Very nice close-in listing, AN. I see concrete issues, a possible pool deck issue (OP said he really didn’t want a pool) and possibly rotted wood garden walls outside but very little, if anything, wrong with the inside. And the outside issues are likely not urgent.
It appears that this listing is in the Curie Elem attendance area (walking distance) so not sure why you suggested private schools. I know this micro area fairly well and some of its (irregular-shaped) lots are pretty awesome!
OP, you should really consider this listing for its location, putting aside the possible “political persuasion” of its neighborhood inhabitants and the existence of a pool (which can be fenced for about $2K). It’s a good house for you and it doesn’t get that much better than this for you, location wise.