I don’t have a whole lot to add on the quarry stuff. I would defer to TemeculaGuy’s knowledge there. I will say that I definitely agree that DeLuz (just south of Temecula, west of the 15) or La Cresta would be cooler. But I also agree with TemeculaGuy that at least my kids wouldn’t be into having 5 acres but no other kids right next door. But of course that is your call what would work best for you guys. If it does, I personally would prefer either of the mountain areas above, as opposed to wine country. Wine country takes time to get to, and it’s getting worse. Your main concern might not be whether it gets bought up, but how much building goes on between you and the freeway. It used to be a fairly quick trip down Rancho California Rd or 79S, but with traffic it can take 30+ mins just to get to the freeway. 7-9 years from now it could be even uglier. Or gas could be $15 per gallon and we could all be telecommuting. 🙂
With regard to Fallbrook, it does come down to a personal decision. For my family, having at least some diversity was important to us. This does exist in Temecula/Murrieta (and most of SoCal), but was not the case in my experience in Fallbrook. I’m sure as a white guy you’d be perfectly safe. But I do have a couple of minority friends that aren’t too excited about the area. That said, you are completely right in that predators are everywhere, and in almost any community. Look at the Hale Bopp comet, purple nike wearing freaks. Good point.
I’m sure there are lots of good realtors here (TemeculaGuy is very knowledgeable). Personally I would suggest Eric Tomlinson (Century 21, Ortiz-Tomlinson Team). They were very patient and helpful and awesome in follow-up. I called him recently and he even did the leg work to help me locate a realtor here in Charlotte. Anyway, I’m not typically one to be super enthusiastic about service providers, but they were really about the best I’ve encountered anywhere. He’s not pushy, so he’d probably send you even now any info you needed that might help in your decision making. And no, I’m not affiliated with him in any way.
So there you go, I’ve used up my $.03. Hope this is helpful, and with any luck I’ll be back in SoCal by Christmas!