La Costa has some major soil problems, so it’s entirely possible for anything around here to have foundation problems. That being said, La Costa is **definitely** a better area than the area around the Vista courthouse.
Are the condos similar in all other respects (HOA, size, condition, # of bed/bath rooms, etc.)?
Based on the question, I’d say it’s better for you to really get to know the areas better. Spend a LOT of time driving around and really getting a solid appreciation for the different areas and the pros/cons of each. Lack of knowledge about these things can really kill your finances.
Do not look at real estate as having any kind of appreciation potential any time in the near future. If you’re buying a place because you need a home and can easily afford it, great. Appreciation isn’t coming back for a while, IMHO. Prices are just barely coming back to a normal. Problem is, we are not in a normal economy right now…it is much worse.