Rental prices are about $1/sq ft around Poway and Rancho Bernardo, with a base price of at least $1700 for a house. So a 1500 sq ft house could cost $1700, but after 2000 sq ft, they’re about $1/sq ft. You might find a little higher for a brand new house or a huge lot, about $1.10/sq ft. The owners who are asking more, are not getting it – those are vacant. Next time you see a rental priced over $1.10/sq ft, ask how long it has been on the market, and check what the landlord got when he/she finally found a tenant.
On my street, another rental has been available for over 3 months. It is 2000 sq ft, and they are asking $2350 (down from $2650). It is still vacant.
Asking price doesn’t mean much. Landlords, who bought on hopes of appreciation, are trying to get what they can. Experienced landlords ask for competitive market rates, such as I quoted you above.