The first thing is that most sellers who are not distressed are still way out of touch with the market reality. Especially in the more desireable areas. It is very frustrating. How someone would ask 800-900k for a 2500 sf home on a small lot that sits a few hundred yards from I5 and looks directly into an office building is simply crazy! Similarly La Costa Valley homes, while very nice are also priced with no concept of current conditions either. We actually saw a home that was HIGHER then recent comps and from our opinion was not appreciably in better condition. Seems like there are a whole lot of sellers that need to be put on ice for awhile.

Ouch. SD Realtor. After all the love and support, you stabbed me in the heart. Just kidding. Actually, yes I'm one of the fools that live in one of these in Torrey Hills. In fact, I would say most Torrey Hills places have some exposure to I-5 noise. I guess it could be worse, I could be living in Sea Ridge, right behind the power lines :).