6610 Amberly St. 92120 in Del Cerro/San Carlos

[Utexas112]

Hello all,

I’m a relatively long-time reader but first time poster. Like some on the forum, we’ve decided it’s time to try to buy a starter house and, for the past several months, have been offering on various properties, mostly with little success. Recently, however, we had an offer accepted on this property, and the bank has approved a short-sale close to the terms specified below.

My question is, if you, fellow pigs, had the opportunity to buy this house for 350k with 3% back, would you take it considering the house itself, area, general market conditions, etc?

[4plexowner]

did you mean to provide a link?

are you a Longhorn? “Utexas”

[Utexas112]

Yes–class of 2004. I didn’t provide a link, but here is one now: http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/6610-Amberly-St-San-Diego-CA-92120/16979425_zpid/

Of course, I take the Zillow estimated value with a grain of salt.

[Utexas112]

Yes–class of 2004. I didn’t provide a link, but here is one now: http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/6610-Amberly-St-San-Diego-CA-92120/16979425_zpid/

Of course, I take the Zillow estimated value with a grain of salt.

[Utexas112]

Yes–class of 2004. I didn’t provide a link, but here is one now: http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/6610-Amberly-St-San-Diego-CA-92120/16979425_zpid/

Of course, I take the Zillow estimated value with a grain of salt.

[Utexas112]

Yes–class of 2004. I didn’t provide a link, but here is one now: http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/6610-Amberly-St-San-Diego-CA-92120/16979425_zpid/

Of course, I take the Zillow estimated value with a grain of salt.

[Utexas112]

Yes–class of 2004. I didn’t provide a link, but here is one now: http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/6610-Amberly-St-San-Diego-CA-92120/16979425_zpid/

Of course, I take the Zillow estimated value with a grain of salt.

[4plexowner]

did you mean to provide a link?

are you a Longhorn? “Utexas”

[4plexowner]

did you mean to provide a link?

are you a Longhorn? “Utexas”

[4plexowner]

did you mean to provide a link?

are you a Longhorn? “Utexas”

[4plexowner]

did you mean to provide a link?

are you a Longhorn? “Utexas”

[UCGal]

Per public records the previous owners of 6610 Amberly bought at the peak (2006) for $557.5K.

Not knowing the current condition, but knowing the neighborhood… it could be a decent deal. It’s a an older neighborhood with a lot of long time residents. The house is small, but starter homes aren’t supposed to be McMansions.

How long are you planning to stay in the house? Do you need it to appreciate, or just hold it’s value?

What do houses in the neighborhood rent for? A quick look at Craigslist (unscientific) shows that a 2br in allied gardens/del cerro can rent for about $1400-1800. What would your mortgage/taxes be if you bought?

[sdrealtor]

Looking at the comps it sounds like a reasonable price. Not a steal but fair. Its not in the MLS so I dont know how it was sold but I checked the prior listing and it looks like it was remodelled quite a bit before the prior sale. Hopefully it is still in good condition. Prior sale also lists as 3BR so the question is whether it is a 2BR or 3BR. If its a 2BR plus a den/office that would be OK. If only a 2BR, I’d like it a little less.

[Utexas112]

Thanks for your input sdrealtor. The 3rd bedroom, I believe, could be a legal bedroom. I’m not exactly sure what the process would be, but I believe I could have that reflect on the tax rolls.

The house is in overall good condition, but like anything, will need cosmetic updates. The question really is whether the neighborhood will support adequate price appreciation for such updates.

It has been remodeled somewhat; I’m not sure which, but one prior owner added recessed can lighting, crown molding, etc. The flooring, bathrooms, and certain exterior features could stand further updating.

[sdrealtor]

Thats what I figured on the 3rd bedroom/office and I wouldnt worry about the tax records. They are frequently wrong. Most people buying 3BR starter homes really want one as an office/den anyway. Seems like a reasonable purchase to me. Of course that is without ever walking the actual house and neighborhood but based upon what I am seeing and selling elsewhere, I’d have no problem if a client got that house if they wanted it and could afford it.

[meadandale]

That’s pushing it to call that house “Del Cerro”. They are trying to piggy back Del Cerro in hopes it generates more interest. I call that house squarely in San Carlos.

Del Cerro houses are almost always larger and on larger lots than cookie cutter San Carlos houses like that one.

And no, I don’t live in Del Cerro, I live in Grantville/Allied Gardens.

[Utexas112]

Interesting observation, meadandale.

After looking at numerous neighborhood maps, I’m not exactly sure which ‘hood it’s in. If you travel east on Navajo another half mile or so, you see the welcome sign for San Carlos.

[Utexas112]

Interesting observation, meadandale.

After looking at numerous neighborhood maps, I’m not exactly sure which ‘hood it’s in. If you travel east on Navajo another half mile or so, you see the welcome sign for San Carlos.

[Utexas112]

Interesting observation, meadandale.

After looking at numerous neighborhood maps, I’m not exactly sure which ‘hood it’s in. If you travel east on Navajo another half mile or so, you see the welcome sign for San Carlos.

[Utexas112]

Interesting observation, meadandale.

After looking at numerous neighborhood maps, I’m not exactly sure which ‘hood it’s in. If you travel east on Navajo another half mile or so, you see the welcome sign for San Carlos.

[Utexas112]

Interesting observation, meadandale.

After looking at numerous neighborhood maps, I’m not exactly sure which ‘hood it’s in. If you travel east on Navajo another half mile or so, you see the welcome sign for San Carlos.

[meadandale]

That’s pushing it to call that house “Del Cerro”. They are trying to piggy back Del Cerro in hopes it generates more interest. I call that house squarely in San Carlos.

Del Cerro houses are almost always larger and on larger lots than cookie cutter San Carlos houses like that one.

And no, I don’t live in Del Cerro, I live in Grantville/Allied Gardens.

[meadandale]

That’s pushing it to call that house “Del Cerro”. They are trying to piggy back Del Cerro in hopes it generates more interest. I call that house squarely in San Carlos.

Del Cerro houses are almost always larger and on larger lots than cookie cutter San Carlos houses like that one.

And no, I don’t live in Del Cerro, I live in Grantville/Allied Gardens.

[meadandale]

That’s pushing it to call that house “Del Cerro”. They are trying to piggy back Del Cerro in hopes it generates more interest. I call that house squarely in San Carlos.

Del Cerro houses are almost always larger and on larger lots than cookie cutter San Carlos houses like that one.

And no, I don’t live in Del Cerro, I live in Grantville/Allied Gardens.

[meadandale]

That’s pushing it to call that house “Del Cerro”. They are trying to piggy back Del Cerro in hopes it generates more interest. I call that house squarely in San Carlos.

Del Cerro houses are almost always larger and on larger lots than cookie cutter San Carlos houses like that one.

And no, I don’t live in Del Cerro, I live in Grantville/Allied Gardens.

[sdrealtor]

Thats what I figured on the 3rd bedroom/office and I wouldnt worry about the tax records. They are frequently wrong. Most people buying 3BR starter homes really want one as an office/den anyway. Seems like a reasonable purchase to me. Of course that is without ever walking the actual house and neighborhood but based upon what I am seeing and selling elsewhere, I’d have no problem if a client got that house if they wanted it and could afford it.

[sdrealtor]

Thats what I figured on the 3rd bedroom/office and I wouldnt worry about the tax records. They are frequently wrong. Most people buying 3BR starter homes really want one as an office/den anyway. Seems like a reasonable purchase to me. Of course that is without ever walking the actual house and neighborhood but based upon what I am seeing and selling elsewhere, I’d have no problem if a client got that house if they wanted it and could afford it.

[sdrealtor]

Thats what I figured on the 3rd bedroom/office and I wouldnt worry about the tax records. They are frequently wrong. Most people buying 3BR starter homes really want one as an office/den anyway. Seems like a reasonable purchase to me. Of course that is without ever walking the actual house and neighborhood but based upon what I am seeing and selling elsewhere, I’d have no problem if a client got that house if they wanted it and could afford it.

[sdrealtor]

Thats what I figured on the 3rd bedroom/office and I wouldnt worry about the tax records. They are frequently wrong. Most people buying 3BR starter homes really want one as an office/den anyway. Seems like a reasonable purchase to me. Of course that is without ever walking the actual house and neighborhood but based upon what I am seeing and selling elsewhere, I’d have no problem if a client got that house if they wanted it and could afford it.

[Utexas112]

Thanks for your input sdrealtor. The 3rd bedroom, I believe, could be a legal bedroom. I’m not exactly sure what the process would be, but I believe I could have that reflect on the tax rolls.

The house is in overall good condition, but like anything, will need cosmetic updates. The question really is whether the neighborhood will support adequate price appreciation for such updates.

It has been remodeled somewhat; I’m not sure which, but one prior owner added recessed can lighting, crown molding, etc. The flooring, bathrooms, and certain exterior features could stand further updating.

[Utexas112]

Thanks for your input sdrealtor. The 3rd bedroom, I believe, could be a legal bedroom. I’m not exactly sure what the process would be, but I believe I could have that reflect on the tax rolls.

The house is in overall good condition, but like anything, will need cosmetic updates. The question really is whether the neighborhood will support adequate price appreciation for such updates.

It has been remodeled somewhat; I’m not sure which, but one prior owner added recessed can lighting, crown molding, etc. The flooring, bathrooms, and certain exterior features could stand further updating.

[Utexas112]

Thanks for your input sdrealtor. The 3rd bedroom, I believe, could be a legal bedroom. I’m not exactly sure what the process would be, but I believe I could have that reflect on the tax rolls.

The house is in overall good condition, but like anything, will need cosmetic updates. The question really is whether the neighborhood will support adequate price appreciation for such updates.

It has been remodeled somewhat; I’m not sure which, but one prior owner added recessed can lighting, crown molding, etc. The flooring, bathrooms, and certain exterior features could stand further updating.

[Utexas112]

Thanks for your input sdrealtor. The 3rd bedroom, I believe, could be a legal bedroom. I’m not exactly sure what the process would be, but I believe I could have that reflect on the tax rolls.

The house is in overall good condition, but like anything, will need cosmetic updates. The question really is whether the neighborhood will support adequate price appreciation for such updates.

It has been remodeled somewhat; I’m not sure which, but one prior owner added recessed can lighting, crown molding, etc. The flooring, bathrooms, and certain exterior features could stand further updating.

[sdrealtor]

Looking at the comps it sounds like a reasonable price. Not a steal but fair. Its not in the MLS so I dont know how it was sold but I checked the prior listing and it looks like it was remodelled quite a bit before the prior sale. Hopefully it is still in good condition. Prior sale also lists as 3BR so the question is whether it is a 2BR or 3BR. If its a 2BR plus a den/office that would be OK. If only a 2BR, I’d like it a little less.

[sdrealtor]

Looking at the comps it sounds like a reasonable price. Not a steal but fair. Its not in the MLS so I dont know how it was sold but I checked the prior listing and it looks like it was remodelled quite a bit before the prior sale. Hopefully it is still in good condition. Prior sale also lists as 3BR so the question is whether it is a 2BR or 3BR. If its a 2BR plus a den/office that would be OK. If only a 2BR, I’d like it a little less.

[sdrealtor]

Looking at the comps it sounds like a reasonable price. Not a steal but fair. Its not in the MLS so I dont know how it was sold but I checked the prior listing and it looks like it was remodelled quite a bit before the prior sale. Hopefully it is still in good condition. Prior sale also lists as 3BR so the question is whether it is a 2BR or 3BR. If its a 2BR plus a den/office that would be OK. If only a 2BR, I’d like it a little less.

[sdrealtor]

Looking at the comps it sounds like a reasonable price. Not a steal but fair. Its not in the MLS so I dont know how it was sold but I checked the prior listing and it looks like it was remodelled quite a bit before the prior sale. Hopefully it is still in good condition. Prior sale also lists as 3BR so the question is whether it is a 2BR or 3BR. If its a 2BR plus a den/office that would be OK. If only a 2BR, I’d like it a little less.

[Utexas112]

Thank you for the reply UCGal. So far, our primary concern is that the house is smaller than we would like. There is room on the property (6,800 sq. ft lot) for expansion down the road, however, if needed.

We plan to stay in whatever we buy for 3-5 years. Obviously we would prefer if it appreciated, but if it did not, holding it’s value would work as well. My sense is that if it appreciated, so too would any larger houses we would be looking at in 2014.

Though the house shows as a 2 bedroom on tax rolls, I believe it legally could be a 3 bedroom; one room is an office, currently with a wall open to the living room, but I believe it has a closet, window, and door to the main hallway. Closing in that wall and filing the appropriate permits could change it to the 3 bedroom. In any event, if I rented it, I would close the wall and market it as a 3 bedroom rental.

If we bought, our mortgage payment plus pmi etc. would be approximately $2200.

Your craigslist search raises another question… that is, exactly which “neighborhood” the house is in. It has a 92120 zip code and was marketed as del cerro/san carlos border. I believe it’s in the dailard elementary and patrick henry high district.

Thanks again

[Utexas112]

Thank you for the reply UCGal. So far, our primary concern is that the house is smaller than we would like. There is room on the property (6,800 sq. ft lot) for expansion down the road, however, if needed.

We plan to stay in whatever we buy for 3-5 years. Obviously we would prefer if it appreciated, but if it did not, holding it’s value would work as well. My sense is that if it appreciated, so too would any larger houses we would be looking at in 2014.

Though the house shows as a 2 bedroom on tax rolls, I believe it legally could be a 3 bedroom; one room is an office, currently with a wall open to the living room, but I believe it has a closet, window, and door to the main hallway. Closing in that wall and filing the appropriate permits could change it to the 3 bedroom. In any event, if I rented it, I would close the wall and market it as a 3 bedroom rental.

If we bought, our mortgage payment plus pmi etc. would be approximately $2200.

Your craigslist search raises another question… that is, exactly which “neighborhood” the house is in. It has a 92120 zip code and was marketed as del cerro/san carlos border. I believe it’s in the dailard elementary and patrick henry high district.

Thanks again

[Utexas112]

Thank you for the reply UCGal. So far, our primary concern is that the house is smaller than we would like. There is room on the property (6,800 sq. ft lot) for expansion down the road, however, if needed.

We plan to stay in whatever we buy for 3-5 years. Obviously we would prefer if it appreciated, but if it did not, holding it’s value would work as well. My sense is that if it appreciated, so too would any larger houses we would be looking at in 2014.

Though the house shows as a 2 bedroom on tax rolls, I believe it legally could be a 3 bedroom; one room is an office, currently with a wall open to the living room, but I believe it has a closet, window, and door to the main hallway. Closing in that wall and filing the appropriate permits could change it to the 3 bedroom. In any event, if I rented it, I would close the wall and market it as a 3 bedroom rental.

If we bought, our mortgage payment plus pmi etc. would be approximately $2200.

Your craigslist search raises another question… that is, exactly which “neighborhood” the house is in. It has a 92120 zip code and was marketed as del cerro/san carlos border. I believe it’s in the dailard elementary and patrick henry high district.

Thanks again

[Utexas112]

Thank you for the reply UCGal. So far, our primary concern is that the house is smaller than we would like. There is room on the property (6,800 sq. ft lot) for expansion down the road, however, if needed.

We plan to stay in whatever we buy for 3-5 years. Obviously we would prefer if it appreciated, but if it did not, holding it’s value would work as well. My sense is that if it appreciated, so too would any larger houses we would be looking at in 2014.

Though the house shows as a 2 bedroom on tax rolls, I believe it legally could be a 3 bedroom; one room is an office, currently with a wall open to the living room, but I believe it has a closet, window, and door to the main hallway. Closing in that wall and filing the appropriate permits could change it to the 3 bedroom. In any event, if I rented it, I would close the wall and market it as a 3 bedroom rental.

If we bought, our mortgage payment plus pmi etc. would be approximately $2200.

Your craigslist search raises another question… that is, exactly which “neighborhood” the house is in. It has a 92120 zip code and was marketed as del cerro/san carlos border. I believe it’s in the dailard elementary and patrick henry high district.

Thanks again

[Utexas112]

Thank you for the reply UCGal. So far, our primary concern is that the house is smaller than we would like. There is room on the property (6,800 sq. ft lot) for expansion down the road, however, if needed.

We plan to stay in whatever we buy for 3-5 years. Obviously we would prefer if it appreciated, but if it did not, holding it’s value would work as well. My sense is that if it appreciated, so too would any larger houses we would be looking at in 2014.

Though the house shows as a 2 bedroom on tax rolls, I believe it legally could be a 3 bedroom; one room is an office, currently with a wall open to the living room, but I believe it has a closet, window, and door to the main hallway. Closing in that wall and filing the appropriate permits could change it to the 3 bedroom. In any event, if I rented it, I would close the wall and market it as a 3 bedroom rental.

If we bought, our mortgage payment plus pmi etc. would be approximately $2200.

Your craigslist search raises another question… that is, exactly which “neighborhood” the house is in. It has a 92120 zip code and was marketed as del cerro/san carlos border. I believe it’s in the dailard elementary and patrick henry high district.

Thanks again

[UCGal]

Per public records the previous owners of 6610 Amberly bought at the peak (2006) for $557.5K.

Not knowing the current condition, but knowing the neighborhood… it could be a decent deal. It’s a an older neighborhood with a lot of long time residents. The house is small, but starter homes aren’t supposed to be McMansions.

How long are you planning to stay in the house? Do you need it to appreciate, or just hold it’s value?

What do houses in the neighborhood rent for? A quick look at Craigslist (unscientific) shows that a 2br in allied gardens/del cerro can rent for about $1400-1800. What would your mortgage/taxes be if you bought?

[UCGal]

Per public records the previous owners of 6610 Amberly bought at the peak (2006) for $557.5K.

Not knowing the current condition, but knowing the neighborhood… it could be a decent deal. It’s a an older neighborhood with a lot of long time residents. The house is small, but starter homes aren’t supposed to be McMansions.

How long are you planning to stay in the house? Do you need it to appreciate, or just hold it’s value?

What do houses in the neighborhood rent for? A quick look at Craigslist (unscientific) shows that a 2br in allied gardens/del cerro can rent for about $1400-1800. What would your mortgage/taxes be if you bought?

[UCGal]

Per public records the previous owners of 6610 Amberly bought at the peak (2006) for $557.5K.

Not knowing the current condition, but knowing the neighborhood… it could be a decent deal. It’s a an older neighborhood with a lot of long time residents. The house is small, but starter homes aren’t supposed to be McMansions.

How long are you planning to stay in the house? Do you need it to appreciate, or just hold it’s value?

What do houses in the neighborhood rent for? A quick look at Craigslist (unscientific) shows that a 2br in allied gardens/del cerro can rent for about $1400-1800. What would your mortgage/taxes be if you bought?

[UCGal]

Per public records the previous owners of 6610 Amberly bought at the peak (2006) for $557.5K.

Not knowing the current condition, but knowing the neighborhood… it could be a decent deal. It’s a an older neighborhood with a lot of long time residents. The house is small, but starter homes aren’t supposed to be McMansions.

How long are you planning to stay in the house? Do you need it to appreciate, or just hold it’s value?

What do houses in the neighborhood rent for? A quick look at Craigslist (unscientific) shows that a 2br in allied gardens/del cerro can rent for about $1400-1800. What would your mortgage/taxes be if you bought?

[Anonymous]

UT,
Are you sure you are not referring to 6410 Amberly St. That home was listed as a short sale for many months. It had a 2nd floor master addition. Nice home with a small yard. Last I saw it was listed in the high $400’s. That home would be a great deal at $350. The master addition was not permitted.

If that is not the home that you are referring to, how did you find out the other home was on the market?

Crash

[Utexas112]

Thank you for your reply, Crash.

The address provided is correct. The house has no additions, permitted or otherwise.

It was listed on the MLS, albeit only for a few days, a couple months ago. We submitted our offer at that time, it was accepted by the seller subject to the bank approval contingency, and (surprisingly) recently have heard the bank approved our offer.

[Utexas112]

Thank you for your reply, Crash.

The address provided is correct. The house has no additions, permitted or otherwise.

It was listed on the MLS, albeit only for a few days, a couple months ago. We submitted our offer at that time, it was accepted by the seller subject to the bank approval contingency, and (surprisingly) recently have heard the bank approved our offer.

[Utexas112]

Thank you for your reply, Crash.

The address provided is correct. The house has no additions, permitted or otherwise.

It was listed on the MLS, albeit only for a few days, a couple months ago. We submitted our offer at that time, it was accepted by the seller subject to the bank approval contingency, and (surprisingly) recently have heard the bank approved our offer.

[Utexas112]

Thank you for your reply, Crash.

The address provided is correct. The house has no additions, permitted or otherwise.

It was listed on the MLS, albeit only for a few days, a couple months ago. We submitted our offer at that time, it was accepted by the seller subject to the bank approval contingency, and (surprisingly) recently have heard the bank approved our offer.

[Utexas112]

Thank you for your reply, Crash.

The address provided is correct. The house has no additions, permitted or otherwise.

It was listed on the MLS, albeit only for a few days, a couple months ago. We submitted our offer at that time, it was accepted by the seller subject to the bank approval contingency, and (surprisingly) recently have heard the bank approved our offer.

[Anonymous]

UT,
Are you sure you are not referring to 6410 Amberly St. That home was listed as a short sale for many months. It had a 2nd floor master addition. Nice home with a small yard. Last I saw it was listed in the high $400’s. That home would be a great deal at $350. The master addition was not permitted.

If that is not the home that you are referring to, how did you find out the other home was on the market?

Crash

[Anonymous]

UT,
Are you sure you are not referring to 6410 Amberly St. That home was listed as a short sale for many months. It had a 2nd floor master addition. Nice home with a small yard. Last I saw it was listed in the high $400’s. That home would be a great deal at $350. The master addition was not permitted.

If that is not the home that you are referring to, how did you find out the other home was on the market?

Crash

[Anonymous]

UT,
Are you sure you are not referring to 6410 Amberly St. That home was listed as a short sale for many months. It had a 2nd floor master addition. Nice home with a small yard. Last I saw it was listed in the high $400’s. That home would be a great deal at $350. The master addition was not permitted.

If that is not the home that you are referring to, how did you find out the other home was on the market?

Crash

[Anonymous]

UT,
Are you sure you are not referring to 6410 Amberly St. That home was listed as a short sale for many months. It had a 2nd floor master addition. Nice home with a small yard. Last I saw it was listed in the high $400’s. That home would be a great deal at $350. The master addition was not permitted.

If that is not the home that you are referring to, how did you find out the other home was on the market?

Crash

[Troubled Loner]

Utexas112,

I lived in that area for several years, just a block from Amberly. It’s a great neighborhood, I loved living there! It’s not squarely in Del Cerro, nor in San Carlos, but that makes no difference to me.

[Utexas112]

Great to hear, Loner! It seems extremely quiet and peaceful there and is quite centrally located.

[4plexowner]

looking at this property on the map brought two thoughts to mind:

1. it gets hot there – if you are used to living near the beach this will be an adjustment – trading cooler weather for the ‘privilege’ of owning a starter home is not a trade I would make – I’d rather be a renter near the beach than a sweaty home debtor

2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like

Hook ’em Horns! class of 1989 – visited the campus in 2007 – still felt like home

[Utexas112]

Always great to hear from another longhorn alum. If you’re a football fan, here’s to hoping the upcoming season delivers as promised.

You raise a good point about the heat. I currently live in northwest mission hills, so it certainly would be a change. I have read, however, that the hilly areas in that neighborhood stay a bit cooler. Last I went to the area, it was 72 at the coast and 74 there. Not exactly scientific, but possibly indicative. I’ve seen the same on a seasonal san Diego microclimate map and will try to find and post the link.

The house also does not have central air, though it may be possible to add it to the existing forced air heat system for around 5k… Money I wouldn’t mind spending for comfort on not just this but any house.

Distance from freeways doesn’t concern me–frankly, being in west mission hills, I’m ready to wake up to something other than freeway noise and jets taking off. Your point of checking surface streets during rush hours is a good one.

[Utexas112]

Always great to hear from another longhorn alum. If you’re a football fan, here’s to hoping the upcoming season delivers as promised.

You raise a good point about the heat. I currently live in northwest mission hills, so it certainly would be a change. I have read, however, that the hilly areas in that neighborhood stay a bit cooler. Last I went to the area, it was 72 at the coast and 74 there. Not exactly scientific, but possibly indicative. I’ve seen the same on a seasonal san Diego microclimate map and will try to find and post the link.

The house also does not have central air, though it may be possible to add it to the existing forced air heat system for around 5k… Money I wouldn’t mind spending for comfort on not just this but any house.

Distance from freeways doesn’t concern me–frankly, being in west mission hills, I’m ready to wake up to something other than freeway noise and jets taking off. Your point of checking surface streets during rush hours is a good one.

[Utexas112]

Always great to hear from another longhorn alum. If you’re a football fan, here’s to hoping the upcoming season delivers as promised.

You raise a good point about the heat. I currently live in northwest mission hills, so it certainly would be a change. I have read, however, that the hilly areas in that neighborhood stay a bit cooler. Last I went to the area, it was 72 at the coast and 74 there. Not exactly scientific, but possibly indicative. I’ve seen the same on a seasonal san Diego microclimate map and will try to find and post the link.

The house also does not have central air, though it may be possible to add it to the existing forced air heat system for around 5k… Money I wouldn’t mind spending for comfort on not just this but any house.

Distance from freeways doesn’t concern me–frankly, being in west mission hills, I’m ready to wake up to something other than freeway noise and jets taking off. Your point of checking surface streets during rush hours is a good one.

[Utexas112]

Always great to hear from another longhorn alum. If you’re a football fan, here’s to hoping the upcoming season delivers as promised.

You raise a good point about the heat. I currently live in northwest mission hills, so it certainly would be a change. I have read, however, that the hilly areas in that neighborhood stay a bit cooler. Last I went to the area, it was 72 at the coast and 74 there. Not exactly scientific, but possibly indicative. I’ve seen the same on a seasonal san Diego microclimate map and will try to find and post the link.

The house also does not have central air, though it may be possible to add it to the existing forced air heat system for around 5k… Money I wouldn’t mind spending for comfort on not just this but any house.

Distance from freeways doesn’t concern me–frankly, being in west mission hills, I’m ready to wake up to something other than freeway noise and jets taking off. Your point of checking surface streets during rush hours is a good one.

[Utexas112]

Always great to hear from another longhorn alum. If you’re a football fan, here’s to hoping the upcoming season delivers as promised.

You raise a good point about the heat. I currently live in northwest mission hills, so it certainly would be a change. I have read, however, that the hilly areas in that neighborhood stay a bit cooler. Last I went to the area, it was 72 at the coast and 74 there. Not exactly scientific, but possibly indicative. I’ve seen the same on a seasonal san Diego microclimate map and will try to find and post the link.

The house also does not have central air, though it may be possible to add it to the existing forced air heat system for around 5k… Money I wouldn’t mind spending for comfort on not just this but any house.

Distance from freeways doesn’t concern me–frankly, being in west mission hills, I’m ready to wake up to something other than freeway noise and jets taking off. Your point of checking surface streets during rush hours is a good one.

[meadandale]

[quote=4plexowner]
2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like[/quote]

Straight down Navajo to Waring and less than a mile to the 8 on Waring.

[meadandale]

[quote=4plexowner]
2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like[/quote]

Straight down Navajo to Waring and less than a mile to the 8 on Waring.

[meadandale]

[quote=4plexowner]
2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like[/quote]

Straight down Navajo to Waring and less than a mile to the 8 on Waring.

[meadandale]

[quote=4plexowner]
2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like[/quote]

Straight down Navajo to Waring and less than a mile to the 8 on Waring.

[meadandale]

[quote=4plexowner]
2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like[/quote]

Straight down Navajo to Waring and less than a mile to the 8 on Waring.

[4plexowner]

looking at this property on the map brought two thoughts to mind:

1. it gets hot there – if you are used to living near the beach this will be an adjustment – trading cooler weather for the ‘privilege’ of owning a starter home is not a trade I would make – I’d rather be a renter near the beach than a sweaty home debtor

2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like

Hook ’em Horns! class of 1989 – visited the campus in 2007 – still felt like home

[4plexowner]

looking at this property on the map brought two thoughts to mind:

1. it gets hot there – if you are used to living near the beach this will be an adjustment – trading cooler weather for the ‘privilege’ of owning a starter home is not a trade I would make – I’d rather be a renter near the beach than a sweaty home debtor

2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like

Hook ’em Horns! class of 1989 – visited the campus in 2007 – still felt like home

[4plexowner]

looking at this property on the map brought two thoughts to mind:

1. it gets hot there – if you are used to living near the beach this will be an adjustment – trading cooler weather for the ‘privilege’ of owning a starter home is not a trade I would make – I’d rather be a renter near the beach than a sweaty home debtor

2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like

Hook ’em Horns! class of 1989 – visited the campus in 2007 – still felt like home

[4plexowner]

looking at this property on the map brought two thoughts to mind:

1. it gets hot there – if you are used to living near the beach this will be an adjustment – trading cooler weather for the ‘privilege’ of owning a starter home is not a trade I would make – I’d rather be a renter near the beach than a sweaty home debtor

2. it isn’t close to the freeways – on the map it looks like there is easy access for commuting but I would want to see what the roads were like during my own commuting times – spending 15 or 20 minutes just getting to the freeway is very frustrating for me – suggest you try your commute from that location and see what it is like

Hook ’em Horns! class of 1989 – visited the campus in 2007 – still felt like home

[Utexas112]

Great to hear, Loner! It seems extremely quiet and peaceful there and is quite centrally located.

[Utexas112]

Great to hear, Loner! It seems extremely quiet and peaceful there and is quite centrally located.

[Utexas112]

Great to hear, Loner! It seems extremely quiet and peaceful there and is quite centrally located.

[Utexas112]

Great to hear, Loner! It seems extremely quiet and peaceful there and is quite centrally located.

[Troubled Loner]

Utexas112,

I lived in that area for several years, just a block from Amberly. It’s a great neighborhood, I loved living there! It’s not squarely in Del Cerro, nor in San Carlos, but that makes no difference to me.

[Troubled Loner]

Utexas112,

I lived in that area for several years, just a block from Amberly. It’s a great neighborhood, I loved living there! It’s not squarely in Del Cerro, nor in San Carlos, but that makes no difference to me.

[Troubled Loner]

Utexas112,

I lived in that area for several years, just a block from Amberly. It’s a great neighborhood, I loved living there! It’s not squarely in Del Cerro, nor in San Carlos, but that makes no difference to me.

[Troubled Loner]

Utexas112,

I lived in that area for several years, just a block from Amberly. It’s a great neighborhood, I loved living there! It’s not squarely in Del Cerro, nor in San Carlos, but that makes no difference to me.

[Troubled Loner]

4 to 5 minutes to the freeway, take Navajo to College, to hwy 8.

Yes, it’s a few degrees hotter here than Mission Hills, but it’s not unbearable. Night and morning low clouds burn off sooner.

I know the neighborhood real well, but not the condition of the house. If the house is in good shape, this price is not bad. However, I personally believe prices will come down some more in this area. You mention buying this as a starter home. Do you plan on moving in a few years? If so, I would be concerned about higher interest rates, which means if you needed to sell you might take a loss.

[Utexas112]

It’s hard to say whether prices will come down much more in this area or anywhere in san Diego (at least in this price range). I used to be in the same school of though, that is until I started actively looking for homes in the mid 3’s. In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation, at least for desireable, somewhat remodeled properties in nicer or more desirable areas.

You make a good point with interest rates, but that’s a bit of a catch 22 for us. If rates really are at 30 year lows (even if artificial) they probably will go up somewhat in the next few years. Due to the massive influx of printed money the gov has fused into the economy, we’ll also see some inflation. While we’d probably be earning more money in a few years, we’d still be paying more in interest then than we would now. On the flip side, by buying now, we can “benefit” from future inflation by having the house value increase and also lock in the superlow interest rate.. Not to mention mortgage interest tax deductions, and the nice 8k tax credit. (I put benefit in quotes because I realize any price increase due to inflation would mean similar price increases on any move-up homes. At least by buying now we would have a ticket, so to speak, to ride the inflation train up.)

[Ren]

[quote=Utexas112]In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation…[/quote]

Don’t take intense competition to mean the market has turned. I have friends that are throwing in offers left and right, despite my showing them extremely convincing evidence that the coast is nowhere near finished correcting. It doesn’t register. They’re just following the crowd, thinking that bidding wars wouldn’t be happening if this wasn’t the bottom (it’s much easier to be a lemming than to take the time to learn the subject), with no real understanding of the forces involved, and no desire to find out. Ignorance is bliss, and there are millions of blissful people in this county.

[Ren]

[quote=Utexas112]In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation…[/quote]

Don’t take intense competition to mean the market has turned. I have friends that are throwing in offers left and right, despite my showing them extremely convincing evidence that the coast is nowhere near finished correcting. It doesn’t register. They’re just following the crowd, thinking that bidding wars wouldn’t be happening if this wasn’t the bottom (it’s much easier to be a lemming than to take the time to learn the subject), with no real understanding of the forces involved, and no desire to find out. Ignorance is bliss, and there are millions of blissful people in this county.

[Ren]

[quote=Utexas112]In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation…[/quote]

Don’t take intense competition to mean the market has turned. I have friends that are throwing in offers left and right, despite my showing them extremely convincing evidence that the coast is nowhere near finished correcting. It doesn’t register. They’re just following the crowd, thinking that bidding wars wouldn’t be happening if this wasn’t the bottom (it’s much easier to be a lemming than to take the time to learn the subject), with no real understanding of the forces involved, and no desire to find out. Ignorance is bliss, and there are millions of blissful people in this county.

[Ren]

[quote=Utexas112]In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation…[/quote]

Don’t take intense competition to mean the market has turned. I have friends that are throwing in offers left and right, despite my showing them extremely convincing evidence that the coast is nowhere near finished correcting. It doesn’t register. They’re just following the crowd, thinking that bidding wars wouldn’t be happening if this wasn’t the bottom (it’s much easier to be a lemming than to take the time to learn the subject), with no real understanding of the forces involved, and no desire to find out. Ignorance is bliss, and there are millions of blissful people in this county.

[Ren]

[quote=Utexas112]In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation…[/quote]

Don’t take intense competition to mean the market has turned. I have friends that are throwing in offers left and right, despite my showing them extremely convincing evidence that the coast is nowhere near finished correcting. It doesn’t register. They’re just following the crowd, thinking that bidding wars wouldn’t be happening if this wasn’t the bottom (it’s much easier to be a lemming than to take the time to learn the subject), with no real understanding of the forces involved, and no desire to find out. Ignorance is bliss, and there are millions of blissful people in this county.

[Utexas112]

It’s hard to say whether prices will come down much more in this area or anywhere in san Diego (at least in this price range). I used to be in the same school of though, that is until I started actively looking for homes in the mid 3’s. In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation, at least for desireable, somewhat remodeled properties in nicer or more desirable areas.

You make a good point with interest rates, but that’s a bit of a catch 22 for us. If rates really are at 30 year lows (even if artificial) they probably will go up somewhat in the next few years. Due to the massive influx of printed money the gov has fused into the economy, we’ll also see some inflation. While we’d probably be earning more money in a few years, we’d still be paying more in interest then than we would now. On the flip side, by buying now, we can “benefit” from future inflation by having the house value increase and also lock in the superlow interest rate.. Not to mention mortgage interest tax deductions, and the nice 8k tax credit. (I put benefit in quotes because I realize any price increase due to inflation would mean similar price increases on any move-up homes. At least by buying now we would have a ticket, so to speak, to ride the inflation train up.)

[Utexas112]

It’s hard to say whether prices will come down much more in this area or anywhere in san Diego (at least in this price range). I used to be in the same school of though, that is until I started actively looking for homes in the mid 3’s. In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation, at least for desireable, somewhat remodeled properties in nicer or more desirable areas.

You make a good point with interest rates, but that’s a bit of a catch 22 for us. If rates really are at 30 year lows (even if artificial) they probably will go up somewhat in the next few years. Due to the massive influx of printed money the gov has fused into the economy, we’ll also see some inflation. While we’d probably be earning more money in a few years, we’d still be paying more in interest then than we would now. On the flip side, by buying now, we can “benefit” from future inflation by having the house value increase and also lock in the superlow interest rate.. Not to mention mortgage interest tax deductions, and the nice 8k tax credit. (I put benefit in quotes because I realize any price increase due to inflation would mean similar price increases on any move-up homes. At least by buying now we would have a ticket, so to speak, to ride the inflation train up.)

[Utexas112]

It’s hard to say whether prices will come down much more in this area or anywhere in san Diego (at least in this price range). I used to be in the same school of though, that is until I started actively looking for homes in the mid 3’s. In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation, at least for desireable, somewhat remodeled properties in nicer or more desirable areas.

You make a good point with interest rates, but that’s a bit of a catch 22 for us. If rates really are at 30 year lows (even if artificial) they probably will go up somewhat in the next few years. Due to the massive influx of printed money the gov has fused into the economy, we’ll also see some inflation. While we’d probably be earning more money in a few years, we’d still be paying more in interest then than we would now. On the flip side, by buying now, we can “benefit” from future inflation by having the house value increase and also lock in the superlow interest rate.. Not to mention mortgage interest tax deductions, and the nice 8k tax credit. (I put benefit in quotes because I realize any price increase due to inflation would mean similar price increases on any move-up homes. At least by buying now we would have a ticket, so to speak, to ride the inflation train up.)

[Utexas112]

It’s hard to say whether prices will come down much more in this area or anywhere in san Diego (at least in this price range). I used to be in the same school of though, that is until I started actively looking for homes in the mid 3’s. In over 10 months of scouting neighborhoods and making over 15 offers, I’ve seen nothing but intense competition and price appreciation, at least for desireable, somewhat remodeled properties in nicer or more desirable areas.

You make a good point with interest rates, but that’s a bit of a catch 22 for us. If rates really are at 30 year lows (even if artificial) they probably will go up somewhat in the next few years. Due to the massive influx of printed money the gov has fused into the economy, we’ll also see some inflation. While we’d probably be earning more money in a few years, we’d still be paying more in interest then than we would now. On the flip side, by buying now, we can “benefit” from future inflation by having the house value increase and also lock in the superlow interest rate.. Not to mention mortgage interest tax deductions, and the nice 8k tax credit. (I put benefit in quotes because I realize any price increase due to inflation would mean similar price increases on any move-up homes. At least by buying now we would have a ticket, so to speak, to ride the inflation train up.)

[Troubled Loner]

4 to 5 minutes to the freeway, take Navajo to College, to hwy 8.

Yes, it’s a few degrees hotter here than Mission Hills, but it’s not unbearable. Night and morning low clouds burn off sooner.

I know the neighborhood real well, but not the condition of the house. If the house is in good shape, this price is not bad. However, I personally believe prices will come down some more in this area. You mention buying this as a starter home. Do you plan on moving in a few years? If so, I would be concerned about higher interest rates, which means if you needed to sell you might take a loss.

[Troubled Loner]

4 to 5 minutes to the freeway, take Navajo to College, to hwy 8.

Yes, it’s a few degrees hotter here than Mission Hills, but it’s not unbearable. Night and morning low clouds burn off sooner.

I know the neighborhood real well, but not the condition of the house. If the house is in good shape, this price is not bad. However, I personally believe prices will come down some more in this area. You mention buying this as a starter home. Do you plan on moving in a few years? If so, I would be concerned about higher interest rates, which means if you needed to sell you might take a loss.

[Troubled Loner]

4 to 5 minutes to the freeway, take Navajo to College, to hwy 8.

Yes, it’s a few degrees hotter here than Mission Hills, but it’s not unbearable. Night and morning low clouds burn off sooner.

I know the neighborhood real well, but not the condition of the house. If the house is in good shape, this price is not bad. However, I personally believe prices will come down some more in this area. You mention buying this as a starter home. Do you plan on moving in a few years? If so, I would be concerned about higher interest rates, which means if you needed to sell you might take a loss.

[Troubled Loner]

4 to 5 minutes to the freeway, take Navajo to College, to hwy 8.

Yes, it’s a few degrees hotter here than Mission Hills, but it’s not unbearable. Night and morning low clouds burn off sooner.

I know the neighborhood real well, but not the condition of the house. If the house is in good shape, this price is not bad. However, I personally believe prices will come down some more in this area. You mention buying this as a starter home. Do you plan on moving in a few years? If so, I would be concerned about higher interest rates, which means if you needed to sell you might take a loss.

[Author]

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