Relo to San Diego

[admin]

I came across this site recently, seems to be a good source of info.

I recently accepted a position for a firm in La Jolla area, and will be relocating out here permanently early next year. I’m moving from another high cost area, DC. Luckily, I sold my house out there back in 2006, after a divorce.

I’ll probably rent for a while and scope out the market situation. I do believe that pricing will drop significantly in next 18-24 months. Wash DC area is also getting hit very hard. Looking for a SFH under $1M within reasonable commute. BTW, any commute will probably better than the gridlock in DC.

I’ve pretty much ruled out Rancho Bernardo 4S, Ramona, Scrips Ranch and other areas that are prone to future fires. I don’t understand why such development is done in obvious fire zones.

Looking for some advice. I’m going on a tour soon with a relocation firm (really just a realtor), would like to steer them.

Thanks in advance.

[San Diego Native]

As you will see from reading the various threads on this board there are as many ideas about the best places to live in San Diego as there are people. In essence, it will come down to your preferences and, of course, your $$$’s.

Just about everyone, including myself, and most of our friends and family, live west of I-5, from Sunset Cliffs and Point Loma to Del Mar and Carlsbad. My family and I live in La Jolla, above LJ Country Club, and overlooking the ocean. It’s beautiful, but be prepared for sticker shock.

We purchased our home almost twenty years ago–when we were in our 20’s–and it’s gone to the moon, but prices are dropping in some areas of LJ, so if you are going to be working in LJ, you might want to check out the zip codes of 92037 and 92038 on realtor.com, to get a feel for the $$$’s and types of homes available. Also check out the Del Mar zip of 92014 and 92130 in Carmel Valley. All of these areas would be highly accessible to a La Jolla commute, and should give you some general price comparisons before you start working with a realtor.

Best of luck!!

[San Diego Native]

As you will see from reading the various threads on this board there are as many ideas about the best places to live in San Diego as there are people. In essence, it will come down to your preferences and, of course, your $$$’s.

Just about everyone, including myself, and most of our friends and family, live west of I-5, from Sunset Cliffs and Point Loma to Del Mar and Carlsbad. My family and I live in La Jolla, above LJ Country Club, and overlooking the ocean. It’s beautiful, but be prepared for sticker shock.

We purchased our home almost twenty years ago–when we were in our 20’s–and it’s gone to the moon, but prices are dropping in some areas of LJ, so if you are going to be working in LJ, you might want to check out the zip codes of 92037 and 92038 on realtor.com, to get a feel for the $$$’s and types of homes available. Also check out the Del Mar zip of 92014 and 92130 in Carmel Valley. All of these areas would be highly accessible to a La Jolla commute, and should give you some general price comparisons before you start working with a realtor.

Best of luck!!

[San Diego Native]

As you will see from reading the various threads on this board there are as many ideas about the best places to live in San Diego as there are people. In essence, it will come down to your preferences and, of course, your $$$’s.

Just about everyone, including myself, and most of our friends and family, live west of I-5, from Sunset Cliffs and Point Loma to Del Mar and Carlsbad. My family and I live in La Jolla, above LJ Country Club, and overlooking the ocean. It’s beautiful, but be prepared for sticker shock.

We purchased our home almost twenty years ago–when we were in our 20’s–and it’s gone to the moon, but prices are dropping in some areas of LJ, so if you are going to be working in LJ, you might want to check out the zip codes of 92037 and 92038 on realtor.com, to get a feel for the $$$’s and types of homes available. Also check out the Del Mar zip of 92014 and 92130 in Carmel Valley. All of these areas would be highly accessible to a La Jolla commute, and should give you some general price comparisons before you start working with a realtor.

Best of luck!!

[San Diego Native]

As you will see from reading the various threads on this board there are as many ideas about the best places to live in San Diego as there are people. In essence, it will come down to your preferences and, of course, your $$$’s.

Just about everyone, including myself, and most of our friends and family, live west of I-5, from Sunset Cliffs and Point Loma to Del Mar and Carlsbad. My family and I live in La Jolla, above LJ Country Club, and overlooking the ocean. It’s beautiful, but be prepared for sticker shock.

We purchased our home almost twenty years ago–when we were in our 20’s–and it’s gone to the moon, but prices are dropping in some areas of LJ, so if you are going to be working in LJ, you might want to check out the zip codes of 92037 and 92038 on realtor.com, to get a feel for the $$$’s and types of homes available. Also check out the Del Mar zip of 92014 and 92130 in Carmel Valley. All of these areas would be highly accessible to a La Jolla commute, and should give you some general price comparisons before you start working with a realtor.

Best of luck!!

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD –

I would recommend to find somewhere to rent. Agreed with your analysis that over the next 2 years we will continue to drop. Actually it will last longer then that but that timeframe will help you get used to the area. Where you want to live will depend on alot of factors, school districts if that is important to you, commute, proximity to the coast, etc… You will have plenty of time to find something you like but if you rent you will really learn about the city. You cannot go wrong!

SD Realtor

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the advice, waiting is probably the way to go.

I’m in town for a few days and took a drive yesterday around the area. GPS is awesome! The relocation company had sent in advance some info on areas to look. I did like Carmel valley areas, I hear that schools there are decent.

Even though I have already eliminated fire prone areas, the realtor suggested I also take a look at the 4S area anyway. It was disheartening. The 4S area has huge blackened area on hillsides next to it. The housing there is a bit too cookie cutter for me, lots are small, but hey I’m in California now. There seemed to be alot of for sale signs everywhere, just like home town DC. I’m gonna drive a bit more today and get my bearings, perhaps drive up the coast. Any advice on Del mar, Encinitas?

I’ll move into a corporate furnished apt in the UTC area, for 4 months early next year, and will have option to renew on my own nickel at termination of corp contract. From what I saw of UTC, looked like alot of condos.

Thanks again.

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD Carmel Valley is not far from LJ and has alot to offer. There are so many communities within San Diego for you to explore. The two communities that your Realtor mentioned, 4S and Carmel Valley are indeed nice with great schools. However there are also other communities that are established and have much more charm and character. Among them Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach and others. Even Scripps, where I am currently renting has a mix of newer homes and older homes on larger lots. UTC is condo land for sure but it is central and will serve as a good hub for you to explore for the first few months. From there you can find a better place to rent for the next year or so and then find an ideal home as the market churns downward and you become a local.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD Carmel Valley is not far from LJ and has alot to offer. There are so many communities within San Diego for you to explore. The two communities that your Realtor mentioned, 4S and Carmel Valley are indeed nice with great schools. However there are also other communities that are established and have much more charm and character. Among them Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach and others. Even Scripps, where I am currently renting has a mix of newer homes and older homes on larger lots. UTC is condo land for sure but it is central and will serve as a good hub for you to explore for the first few months. From there you can find a better place to rent for the next year or so and then find an ideal home as the market churns downward and you become a local.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD Carmel Valley is not far from LJ and has alot to offer. There are so many communities within San Diego for you to explore. The two communities that your Realtor mentioned, 4S and Carmel Valley are indeed nice with great schools. However there are also other communities that are established and have much more charm and character. Among them Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach and others. Even Scripps, where I am currently renting has a mix of newer homes and older homes on larger lots. UTC is condo land for sure but it is central and will serve as a good hub for you to explore for the first few months. From there you can find a better place to rent for the next year or so and then find an ideal home as the market churns downward and you become a local.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD Carmel Valley is not far from LJ and has alot to offer. There are so many communities within San Diego for you to explore. The two communities that your Realtor mentioned, 4S and Carmel Valley are indeed nice with great schools. However there are also other communities that are established and have much more charm and character. Among them Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach and others. Even Scripps, where I am currently renting has a mix of newer homes and older homes on larger lots. UTC is condo land for sure but it is central and will serve as a good hub for you to explore for the first few months. From there you can find a better place to rent for the next year or so and then find an ideal home as the market churns downward and you become a local.

SD Realtor

[xironman]

There is a lot of people that move back and forth between SD and DC. As one of the many, I can tell you that the SD traffic can hold its place among the worst of them, depending on were you live. If you live in CV you should be pretty safe getting to LJ. One good thing about waiting some time before buying is that it will give you time to make sure the relo is going to work out. SD is not DC on the job front, you are not going to leave if things go south and walk down the street and get a position paying 10% more. You don’t want to have to sell anything there for the next 3 years that you have bought now in order to move back.

[Doofrat]

I’d recommend Carmel Valley as well. We picked this area as we both work in the La Jolla area and wanted to have an easy/fast commute, but didn’t want to live in UTC. Little did we know at the time that Caltrans was building a bypass from Carmel Valley to Sorrento Valley. Before the bypass was done, the commute was a breeze, now the car is barely warmed up by the time you’re in La Jolla! I’d recommend if you’re renting, to pick something as close to the 5 as you can since traffic backs up on the 56 during the rush.
I’d recommend that you take a look at the traffic maps, or try your hand at driving the rush hour traffic to and from the community you are considering. Some areas seem nice (and they are) until you drive the commute each morning.
As a side note, the 5 freeway has alot of side roads that can act as alternate routes if there is an accident or particularly bad traffic, but the 15 does not have these, so in my opinion, the traffic can be somewhat worse on the 15.

[nostradamus]

Is it just me or are there suddenly a lot of SD-to-be’s and SD-newbies posting lately? Our housing market is saved!

Anyhow, welcome to SD, come down to South Mission Beach for vball!

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the welcome to San Diego!

Don’t count on me, or people like me to help bail out the housing market. I don’t think I would buy anywhere in the country now.

After short trip out here I’m even further convinced that housing has nowhere to go but down.

It was a bit disappointing on the housing pricing/quality out here. I’m in no big rush to buy. I may be reasonally well off, but it would still be plain foolish to buy now and lose hundreds of thousands watching an asset depreciate over the next few years.

I’m catching red eye tonight, will be back in town in few weeks. I’ll probably use the free weekend for sightseeing rather than house hunting.

Thanks all again

[CardiffBaseball]

I had the good fortune (or misfortune) of living in a hotel for 6 months out in Scripps Ranch (practically Mira Mesa). At first I was thinking CV, Rancho Penasquitos, CV. I’d look at other areas, but I kept thinking CV, RP, CV. Finally as it was getting time for the family to start packing in the midwest I found Cardiff/Encinitas area. I just want to at least throw the idea out there so that you know to take a look up there.

[CardiffBaseball]

I had the good fortune (or misfortune) of living in a hotel for 6 months out in Scripps Ranch (practically Mira Mesa). At first I was thinking CV, Rancho Penasquitos, CV. I’d look at other areas, but I kept thinking CV, RP, CV. Finally as it was getting time for the family to start packing in the midwest I found Cardiff/Encinitas area. I just want to at least throw the idea out there so that you know to take a look up there.

[CardiffBaseball]

I had the good fortune (or misfortune) of living in a hotel for 6 months out in Scripps Ranch (practically Mira Mesa). At first I was thinking CV, Rancho Penasquitos, CV. I’d look at other areas, but I kept thinking CV, RP, CV. Finally as it was getting time for the family to start packing in the midwest I found Cardiff/Encinitas area. I just want to at least throw the idea out there so that you know to take a look up there.

[CardiffBaseball]

I had the good fortune (or misfortune) of living in a hotel for 6 months out in Scripps Ranch (practically Mira Mesa). At first I was thinking CV, Rancho Penasquitos, CV. I’d look at other areas, but I kept thinking CV, RP, CV. Finally as it was getting time for the family to start packing in the midwest I found Cardiff/Encinitas area. I just want to at least throw the idea out there so that you know to take a look up there.

[zzz]

I would agree with xironman about the job market compared to the east coast or many other major markets. Also, a lot of people from the east coast move out here and find San Diego too slow, lacking in culture, diversity, etc. People even get tired of the sunshine – they miss the seasons. Not my opinion, just what a lot of people from bigger cities complain about and therefore leave SD to go back east or move to SF, LA, etc.

I would move here and evaluate neighborhoods as well as whether you see yourself here for many years to come before buying.

[zzz]

I would agree with xironman about the job market compared to the east coast or many other major markets. Also, a lot of people from the east coast move out here and find San Diego too slow, lacking in culture, diversity, etc. People even get tired of the sunshine – they miss the seasons. Not my opinion, just what a lot of people from bigger cities complain about and therefore leave SD to go back east or move to SF, LA, etc.

I would move here and evaluate neighborhoods as well as whether you see yourself here for many years to come before buying.

[zzz]

I would agree with xironman about the job market compared to the east coast or many other major markets. Also, a lot of people from the east coast move out here and find San Diego too slow, lacking in culture, diversity, etc. People even get tired of the sunshine – they miss the seasons. Not my opinion, just what a lot of people from bigger cities complain about and therefore leave SD to go back east or move to SF, LA, etc.

I would move here and evaluate neighborhoods as well as whether you see yourself here for many years to come before buying.

[zzz]

I would agree with xironman about the job market compared to the east coast or many other major markets. Also, a lot of people from the east coast move out here and find San Diego too slow, lacking in culture, diversity, etc. People even get tired of the sunshine – they miss the seasons. Not my opinion, just what a lot of people from bigger cities complain about and therefore leave SD to go back east or move to SF, LA, etc.

I would move here and evaluate neighborhoods as well as whether you see yourself here for many years to come before buying.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the welcome to San Diego!

Don’t count on me, or people like me to help bail out the housing market. I don’t think I would buy anywhere in the country now.

After short trip out here I’m even further convinced that housing has nowhere to go but down.

It was a bit disappointing on the housing pricing/quality out here. I’m in no big rush to buy. I may be reasonally well off, but it would still be plain foolish to buy now and lose hundreds of thousands watching an asset depreciate over the next few years.

I’m catching red eye tonight, will be back in town in few weeks. I’ll probably use the free weekend for sightseeing rather than house hunting.

Thanks all again

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the welcome to San Diego!

Don’t count on me, or people like me to help bail out the housing market. I don’t think I would buy anywhere in the country now.

After short trip out here I’m even further convinced that housing has nowhere to go but down.

It was a bit disappointing on the housing pricing/quality out here. I’m in no big rush to buy. I may be reasonally well off, but it would still be plain foolish to buy now and lose hundreds of thousands watching an asset depreciate over the next few years.

I’m catching red eye tonight, will be back in town in few weeks. I’ll probably use the free weekend for sightseeing rather than house hunting.

Thanks all again

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the welcome to San Diego!

Don’t count on me, or people like me to help bail out the housing market. I don’t think I would buy anywhere in the country now.

After short trip out here I’m even further convinced that housing has nowhere to go but down.

It was a bit disappointing on the housing pricing/quality out here. I’m in no big rush to buy. I may be reasonally well off, but it would still be plain foolish to buy now and lose hundreds of thousands watching an asset depreciate over the next few years.

I’m catching red eye tonight, will be back in town in few weeks. I’ll probably use the free weekend for sightseeing rather than house hunting.

Thanks all again

[nostradamus]

Is it just me or are there suddenly a lot of SD-to-be’s and SD-newbies posting lately? Our housing market is saved!

Anyhow, welcome to SD, come down to South Mission Beach for vball!

[nostradamus]

Is it just me or are there suddenly a lot of SD-to-be’s and SD-newbies posting lately? Our housing market is saved!

Anyhow, welcome to SD, come down to South Mission Beach for vball!

[nostradamus]

Is it just me or are there suddenly a lot of SD-to-be’s and SD-newbies posting lately? Our housing market is saved!

Anyhow, welcome to SD, come down to South Mission Beach for vball!

[Doofrat]

I’d recommend Carmel Valley as well. We picked this area as we both work in the La Jolla area and wanted to have an easy/fast commute, but didn’t want to live in UTC. Little did we know at the time that Caltrans was building a bypass from Carmel Valley to Sorrento Valley. Before the bypass was done, the commute was a breeze, now the car is barely warmed up by the time you’re in La Jolla! I’d recommend if you’re renting, to pick something as close to the 5 as you can since traffic backs up on the 56 during the rush.
I’d recommend that you take a look at the traffic maps, or try your hand at driving the rush hour traffic to and from the community you are considering. Some areas seem nice (and they are) until you drive the commute each morning.
As a side note, the 5 freeway has alot of side roads that can act as alternate routes if there is an accident or particularly bad traffic, but the 15 does not have these, so in my opinion, the traffic can be somewhat worse on the 15.

[Doofrat]

I’d recommend Carmel Valley as well. We picked this area as we both work in the La Jolla area and wanted to have an easy/fast commute, but didn’t want to live in UTC. Little did we know at the time that Caltrans was building a bypass from Carmel Valley to Sorrento Valley. Before the bypass was done, the commute was a breeze, now the car is barely warmed up by the time you’re in La Jolla! I’d recommend if you’re renting, to pick something as close to the 5 as you can since traffic backs up on the 56 during the rush.
I’d recommend that you take a look at the traffic maps, or try your hand at driving the rush hour traffic to and from the community you are considering. Some areas seem nice (and they are) until you drive the commute each morning.
As a side note, the 5 freeway has alot of side roads that can act as alternate routes if there is an accident or particularly bad traffic, but the 15 does not have these, so in my opinion, the traffic can be somewhat worse on the 15.

[Doofrat]

I’d recommend Carmel Valley as well. We picked this area as we both work in the La Jolla area and wanted to have an easy/fast commute, but didn’t want to live in UTC. Little did we know at the time that Caltrans was building a bypass from Carmel Valley to Sorrento Valley. Before the bypass was done, the commute was a breeze, now the car is barely warmed up by the time you’re in La Jolla! I’d recommend if you’re renting, to pick something as close to the 5 as you can since traffic backs up on the 56 during the rush.
I’d recommend that you take a look at the traffic maps, or try your hand at driving the rush hour traffic to and from the community you are considering. Some areas seem nice (and they are) until you drive the commute each morning.
As a side note, the 5 freeway has alot of side roads that can act as alternate routes if there is an accident or particularly bad traffic, but the 15 does not have these, so in my opinion, the traffic can be somewhat worse on the 15.

[xironman]

There is a lot of people that move back and forth between SD and DC. As one of the many, I can tell you that the SD traffic can hold its place among the worst of them, depending on were you live. If you live in CV you should be pretty safe getting to LJ. One good thing about waiting some time before buying is that it will give you time to make sure the relo is going to work out. SD is not DC on the job front, you are not going to leave if things go south and walk down the street and get a position paying 10% more. You don’t want to have to sell anything there for the next 3 years that you have bought now in order to move back.

[xironman]

There is a lot of people that move back and forth between SD and DC. As one of the many, I can tell you that the SD traffic can hold its place among the worst of them, depending on were you live. If you live in CV you should be pretty safe getting to LJ. One good thing about waiting some time before buying is that it will give you time to make sure the relo is going to work out. SD is not DC on the job front, you are not going to leave if things go south and walk down the street and get a position paying 10% more. You don’t want to have to sell anything there for the next 3 years that you have bought now in order to move back.

[xironman]

There is a lot of people that move back and forth between SD and DC. As one of the many, I can tell you that the SD traffic can hold its place among the worst of them, depending on were you live. If you live in CV you should be pretty safe getting to LJ. One good thing about waiting some time before buying is that it will give you time to make sure the relo is going to work out. SD is not DC on the job front, you are not going to leave if things go south and walk down the street and get a position paying 10% more. You don’t want to have to sell anything there for the next 3 years that you have bought now in order to move back.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the advice, waiting is probably the way to go.

I’m in town for a few days and took a drive yesterday around the area. GPS is awesome! The relocation company had sent in advance some info on areas to look. I did like Carmel valley areas, I hear that schools there are decent.

Even though I have already eliminated fire prone areas, the realtor suggested I also take a look at the 4S area anyway. It was disheartening. The 4S area has huge blackened area on hillsides next to it. The housing there is a bit too cookie cutter for me, lots are small, but hey I’m in California now. There seemed to be alot of for sale signs everywhere, just like home town DC. I’m gonna drive a bit more today and get my bearings, perhaps drive up the coast. Any advice on Del mar, Encinitas?

I’ll move into a corporate furnished apt in the UTC area, for 4 months early next year, and will have option to renew on my own nickel at termination of corp contract. From what I saw of UTC, looked like alot of condos.

Thanks again.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the advice, waiting is probably the way to go.

I’m in town for a few days and took a drive yesterday around the area. GPS is awesome! The relocation company had sent in advance some info on areas to look. I did like Carmel valley areas, I hear that schools there are decent.

Even though I have already eliminated fire prone areas, the realtor suggested I also take a look at the 4S area anyway. It was disheartening. The 4S area has huge blackened area on hillsides next to it. The housing there is a bit too cookie cutter for me, lots are small, but hey I’m in California now. There seemed to be alot of for sale signs everywhere, just like home town DC. I’m gonna drive a bit more today and get my bearings, perhaps drive up the coast. Any advice on Del mar, Encinitas?

I’ll move into a corporate furnished apt in the UTC area, for 4 months early next year, and will have option to renew on my own nickel at termination of corp contract. From what I saw of UTC, looked like alot of condos.

Thanks again.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the advice, waiting is probably the way to go.

I’m in town for a few days and took a drive yesterday around the area. GPS is awesome! The relocation company had sent in advance some info on areas to look. I did like Carmel valley areas, I hear that schools there are decent.

Even though I have already eliminated fire prone areas, the realtor suggested I also take a look at the 4S area anyway. It was disheartening. The 4S area has huge blackened area on hillsides next to it. The housing there is a bit too cookie cutter for me, lots are small, but hey I’m in California now. There seemed to be alot of for sale signs everywhere, just like home town DC. I’m gonna drive a bit more today and get my bearings, perhaps drive up the coast. Any advice on Del mar, Encinitas?

I’ll move into a corporate furnished apt in the UTC area, for 4 months early next year, and will have option to renew on my own nickel at termination of corp contract. From what I saw of UTC, looked like alot of condos.

Thanks again.

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD –

I would recommend to find somewhere to rent. Agreed with your analysis that over the next 2 years we will continue to drop. Actually it will last longer then that but that timeframe will help you get used to the area. Where you want to live will depend on alot of factors, school districts if that is important to you, commute, proximity to the coast, etc… You will have plenty of time to find something you like but if you rent you will really learn about the city. You cannot go wrong!

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD –

I would recommend to find somewhere to rent. Agreed with your analysis that over the next 2 years we will continue to drop. Actually it will last longer then that but that timeframe will help you get used to the area. Where you want to live will depend on alot of factors, school districts if that is important to you, commute, proximity to the coast, etc… You will have plenty of time to find something you like but if you rent you will really learn about the city. You cannot go wrong!

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

NewtoSD –

I would recommend to find somewhere to rent. Agreed with your analysis that over the next 2 years we will continue to drop. Actually it will last longer then that but that timeframe will help you get used to the area. Where you want to live will depend on alot of factors, school districts if that is important to you, commute, proximity to the coast, etc… You will have plenty of time to find something you like but if you rent you will really learn about the city. You cannot go wrong!

SD Realtor

[4Sbuyer2002]

If your ruling out places based on vulnerability to fire . . . don’t rule out 4S Ranch. 4S Ranch and four other recently built communities in the Rancho Santa Fe fire district are probably the safest homes from fire ANYWHERE in San Diego. Not a single 4S home burned.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20071025/news_1n25stay.html#

The homes in 4S have been lauded as a model of how homes should be constructed in order to be “fire safe.”

The homes are deemed so safe that the fire department recommends you DO NOT evacuate during a wildfire like we had last week. The dangers inherent in evacuation are actually greater than staying in your home.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/education/preparedness/SIP_for_web.pdf

The homes in 4S have a variety of integrated features designed to make them “fire safe.”
http://www.rsf-fire.org/education/programs/adult_shelterinplace.asp

Moreover, firestorms like last month aside, even when some hairbrained 4S homeowner throws burning material into their garage with other combustibles and inevitably a fire starts. The fire safe features of the homes are so good the fires are immediately and automatically extinguished with little damage and no harm to occupants.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/news/news_releases/2005/100605%20Cayenne%20Creek%20Fire.pdf

Being nearer to the coast most likely wont make you safer for either of two reasons. 1) the homes are older and don’t have newer “fire safe” features, and 2) being right on the coast is NOT a gaurantee you aren’t going to be wiped out by a firestorm. Examples are Malibu in the most recent fires and most notably. Laguna Beach, CA in 1993
http://www.light-headed.com/asite/laguna/laguna_history/laguna_beach_fire.php

and the Oakland, CA fires of 1991.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Hills_firestorm

Rather than being close to the coast to protect you from fire, you are better off (in terms of fire protection) to buy a newer home with newer “fire safe” technology intergrated into the homes. 4S homes are the among the very safest from fires anywhere in San Diego.

There are pluses and minuses to 4S. And reasons to buy in 4S or not. However, in your original post you excluded 4S due to “fire danger.” That is not a reason to exclude 4S. In fact if you are worried about fires. 4S should be at the top of your list. Not my 2 cents but that of the experts quoted in the articles linked to herein.

grateful owner . . . .

[4plexowner]

I grew up in Texas so San Diego’s primary attraction for me is the weather

Something you will find after you move here is that the temperature increases about 1 degree for every mile you head inland from the coast

If you want to enjoy San Diego’s weather live west of I-5 – if heat is really an issue live in Pt Loma / Coronado (typically 2 degrees cooler than rest of town)

East of I-5 the afternoons can get warmer than I care for but the ocean breeze usually kicks in around 4 or 5 pm and then it is pleasant in most parts of the county

[4Sbuyer2002]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time. Much more so than if you live just a few miles inland. For my money east of the I-5 and west of I-15 is better. The temps are still significantly cooler than east county but you are back from the coast far enough that the marine layer isn’t such an issue. In the case of 4S it sits at the head of the Carmel Valley and inland from San Dieguito Lagoon with no mountains in between 4S and the coast. On a clear day you can see the water from where I live in 4S (no I’m not trying to make an “ocean view” case but make the point that the lack mountains between 4S and the coast gives it the moderating coastal influence.) Thus it gets a nice coastal influence which moderates the climate stays several degrees cooler in summer than further inland. On many days when it is sunny and clear in 4S you will have overcast and marine layer in Del Mar (the coastal community you end up at if you head directly west) is cloudy and overcast. Bottom line. If you can afford it coastal living in San Diego is great. Its cooler but has many more couldy and overcast days due to the marine layer effect. I guess it all depends on your preference. I spent a summer in Texas (1985). I can assure you. The hotter than hell humid soup that is a Texas summer is a far cry from what you get during the summer in the communities east of I-5 and west of I-15.

grateful owner . . . .

[(former)FormerSanDiegan]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time.

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

[Ren]

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

No doubt. We live in CV just east of the 5 off Del Mar Heights, and we haven’t turned on AC or heater in over a year. I LOVE this weather. This coming from someone who lived and worked in Rancho Bernardo/Carmel Mountain. I will never live inland again.

[Ren]

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

No doubt. We live in CV just east of the 5 off Del Mar Heights, and we haven’t turned on AC or heater in over a year. I LOVE this weather. This coming from someone who lived and worked in Rancho Bernardo/Carmel Mountain. I will never live inland again.

[Ren]

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

No doubt. We live in CV just east of the 5 off Del Mar Heights, and we haven’t turned on AC or heater in over a year. I LOVE this weather. This coming from someone who lived and worked in Rancho Bernardo/Carmel Mountain. I will never live inland again.

[Ren]

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

No doubt. We live in CV just east of the 5 off Del Mar Heights, and we haven’t turned on AC or heater in over a year. I LOVE this weather. This coming from someone who lived and worked in Rancho Bernardo/Carmel Mountain. I will never live inland again.

[Ren]

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

No doubt. We live in CV just east of the 5 off Del Mar Heights, and we haven’t turned on AC or heater in over a year. I LOVE this weather. This coming from someone who lived and worked in Rancho Bernardo/Carmel Mountain. I will never live inland again.

[(former)FormerSanDiegan]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time.

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

[(former)FormerSanDiegan]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time.

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

[(former)FormerSanDiegan]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time.

Yeah, living close to the coast really sucks … in May and June, that is. I would trade in my central A/C unit and the associated bills and for about 30 extra days of coastal fog anytime.

[raptorduck]

That Marine layer does indeed cover the coast a lot during a certain part of the year. I remember it well when I lived in Del Mar on 10th street, 50 yards from the beach.

It was the best place I have ever lived. If I could find the kind of house/land sf I need in that same neighborhood, I would be all over it. But I can’t so I will just have to visit. Interestingly, the house I lived in, was owned by folks who lived in RSF. Once their kids were out of the house, they sold the RSF house and moved in (and booted me and my roomate out).

I moved to CV after that. Nice, but not nearly as nice as I had before. Of course still nice enough for me to skip around singing “I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego.”

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for all the comments.

I’m in corporate furnish housing, looking around with a relo realtor this weekend.

They are takng me up the coast, any thoughts on housing market this spring. I expect a tough one for sellers.

Will probably decide to wait out the market for year or two.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

[Enorah]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

We rent a house in Encinitas, a block and a half from the beach (Moonlight Beach). We love living here. It is quieter than I expected. Although we moved in here in October, so we missed high season. Encinitas has a really nice family vibe to it. I have not seen the partying thing here like in Pacific Beach.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the insight into Encinitas. I went up there for dinner last night. It has a great little stretch of restaurants. The city has a great vibe, seems to have a laid-back and real feel to it, much more comfortable than than Botox-central La Jolla.

[Aecetia]

The fire prone areas are not the problem. It is the refusal of Cal Fire Admin. to use military assets to fight the fires. The firefighters on the ground fought a valiant fight, but they can only do so much. By the time the administrators make a decision to allow military to assist fire fighters, is it usually too late and many homes were lost in both fires. You need to do your homework on what makes a home more fire resistant and read up on what happened in the Cedar fire as well as the last round of fires in October 2007. I guarantee, they will return. I also recommend you look at the stability of the city government in each area you are considering. San Diego City, which governs La Jolla, has funding problems which impacts the level of fire protection and law enforcement services you will get. Good schools alone do not make a neighborhood desirable. There are a lot of factors to be considered before you finally decide. I recommend you take your time and choose wisely.

[svelte]

We enjoy Encinitas as well…the problem with the stretch of restaurants is that they are almost all Italian. We always joke, what are you in the mood for? Italian, Italian or Italian?

There is a nice little wine bar in that area as well. Makes for an enjoyable Fri or Sat night.

[svelte]

We enjoy Encinitas as well…the problem with the stretch of restaurants is that they are almost all Italian. We always joke, what are you in the mood for? Italian, Italian or Italian?

There is a nice little wine bar in that area as well. Makes for an enjoyable Fri or Sat night.

[svelte]

We enjoy Encinitas as well…the problem with the stretch of restaurants is that they are almost all Italian. We always joke, what are you in the mood for? Italian, Italian or Italian?

There is a nice little wine bar in that area as well. Makes for an enjoyable Fri or Sat night.

[svelte]

We enjoy Encinitas as well…the problem with the stretch of restaurants is that they are almost all Italian. We always joke, what are you in the mood for? Italian, Italian or Italian?

There is a nice little wine bar in that area as well. Makes for an enjoyable Fri or Sat night.

[svelte]

We enjoy Encinitas as well…the problem with the stretch of restaurants is that they are almost all Italian. We always joke, what are you in the mood for? Italian, Italian or Italian?

There is a nice little wine bar in that area as well. Makes for an enjoyable Fri or Sat night.

[Aecetia]

The fire prone areas are not the problem. It is the refusal of Cal Fire Admin. to use military assets to fight the fires. The firefighters on the ground fought a valiant fight, but they can only do so much. By the time the administrators make a decision to allow military to assist fire fighters, is it usually too late and many homes were lost in both fires. You need to do your homework on what makes a home more fire resistant and read up on what happened in the Cedar fire as well as the last round of fires in October 2007. I guarantee, they will return. I also recommend you look at the stability of the city government in each area you are considering. San Diego City, which governs La Jolla, has funding problems which impacts the level of fire protection and law enforcement services you will get. Good schools alone do not make a neighborhood desirable. There are a lot of factors to be considered before you finally decide. I recommend you take your time and choose wisely.

[Aecetia]

The fire prone areas are not the problem. It is the refusal of Cal Fire Admin. to use military assets to fight the fires. The firefighters on the ground fought a valiant fight, but they can only do so much. By the time the administrators make a decision to allow military to assist fire fighters, is it usually too late and many homes were lost in both fires. You need to do your homework on what makes a home more fire resistant and read up on what happened in the Cedar fire as well as the last round of fires in October 2007. I guarantee, they will return. I also recommend you look at the stability of the city government in each area you are considering. San Diego City, which governs La Jolla, has funding problems which impacts the level of fire protection and law enforcement services you will get. Good schools alone do not make a neighborhood desirable. There are a lot of factors to be considered before you finally decide. I recommend you take your time and choose wisely.

[Aecetia]

The fire prone areas are not the problem. It is the refusal of Cal Fire Admin. to use military assets to fight the fires. The firefighters on the ground fought a valiant fight, but they can only do so much. By the time the administrators make a decision to allow military to assist fire fighters, is it usually too late and many homes were lost in both fires. You need to do your homework on what makes a home more fire resistant and read up on what happened in the Cedar fire as well as the last round of fires in October 2007. I guarantee, they will return. I also recommend you look at the stability of the city government in each area you are considering. San Diego City, which governs La Jolla, has funding problems which impacts the level of fire protection and law enforcement services you will get. Good schools alone do not make a neighborhood desirable. There are a lot of factors to be considered before you finally decide. I recommend you take your time and choose wisely.

[Aecetia]

The fire prone areas are not the problem. It is the refusal of Cal Fire Admin. to use military assets to fight the fires. The firefighters on the ground fought a valiant fight, but they can only do so much. By the time the administrators make a decision to allow military to assist fire fighters, is it usually too late and many homes were lost in both fires. You need to do your homework on what makes a home more fire resistant and read up on what happened in the Cedar fire as well as the last round of fires in October 2007. I guarantee, they will return. I also recommend you look at the stability of the city government in each area you are considering. San Diego City, which governs La Jolla, has funding problems which impacts the level of fire protection and law enforcement services you will get. Good schools alone do not make a neighborhood desirable. There are a lot of factors to be considered before you finally decide. I recommend you take your time and choose wisely.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the insight into Encinitas. I went up there for dinner last night. It has a great little stretch of restaurants. The city has a great vibe, seems to have a laid-back and real feel to it, much more comfortable than than Botox-central La Jolla.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the insight into Encinitas. I went up there for dinner last night. It has a great little stretch of restaurants. The city has a great vibe, seems to have a laid-back and real feel to it, much more comfortable than than Botox-central La Jolla.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the insight into Encinitas. I went up there for dinner last night. It has a great little stretch of restaurants. The city has a great vibe, seems to have a laid-back and real feel to it, much more comfortable than than Botox-central La Jolla.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for the insight into Encinitas. I went up there for dinner last night. It has a great little stretch of restaurants. The city has a great vibe, seems to have a laid-back and real feel to it, much more comfortable than than Botox-central La Jolla.

[Enorah]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

We rent a house in Encinitas, a block and a half from the beach (Moonlight Beach). We love living here. It is quieter than I expected. Although we moved in here in October, so we missed high season. Encinitas has a really nice family vibe to it. I have not seen the partying thing here like in Pacific Beach.

[Enorah]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

We rent a house in Encinitas, a block and a half from the beach (Moonlight Beach). We love living here. It is quieter than I expected. Although we moved in here in October, so we missed high season. Encinitas has a really nice family vibe to it. I have not seen the partying thing here like in Pacific Beach.

[Enorah]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

We rent a house in Encinitas, a block and a half from the beach (Moonlight Beach). We love living here. It is quieter than I expected. Although we moved in here in October, so we missed high season. Encinitas has a really nice family vibe to it. I have not seen the partying thing here like in Pacific Beach.

[Enorah]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

We rent a house in Encinitas, a block and a half from the beach (Moonlight Beach). We love living here. It is quieter than I expected. Although we moved in here in October, so we missed high season. Encinitas has a really nice family vibe to it. I have not seen the partying thing here like in Pacific Beach.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I’m stuck in UTC area for at least a few months, they call it golden triange….seems more like Botox triangle. I hate it here. Just a bunch of tightly packed overpriced condos here.

Thoughts on encinitas area? I was reading about problems with rental houses anywhere near the beach. Rowdy renters, etc.

[SD Realtor]

Don’t expect much relief this spring if you are looking at coastal properties, especially detached homes. My expectations are that later in the summer you should see a bit of relief. I have seen alot of listings coming on line again and the inventory is starting to roll up. In places like Scripps, PQ and MM I have even seen REO and shorts come out with very aggressive pricing. Those that do get alot of activities and even offers. Spring is typically a seasonal boon for real estate.

No this is not an endorsement of a bull market. Just a statement that there is ALOT more activity in Feb/March/April then there is in July/Aug/Sept.

SD Realtor

[NewtoSanDiego]

I guess the nicer areas are always the last to fall.

Been seeing similar thing in DC area, PG county and other areas have been hammered. Nicer areas like Great Falls, Potomac, Chevy Chase seem to be holding firm. Time will tell.

DC area is well diversified with alot of govt employees, Beltway Bandits (govt contractors), bio tech, etc. If govt spending craters it will get hit.

Friends in DOD are saying Navy budget is gonna get hammered in next budget cycle. It will probably trend down for next few years. Army and Marines have been bearing brunt of the continued Iraq, Afghan operations.

Although not considered a “Navy town” anymore, San Diego will probably get hit on this front also.

[paramount]

Having moved from the DC Area myself, it doesn’t seem like DC has taken the same hit as So. Cal. in terms of housing. And yet, the prices went straight up just like in So. Cal.

I consider the DC Area to be the largest welfare region in the country – and I am referring to all of the gov’t and gov’t related jobs. DC is recession proof by sucking the life blood out of the rest of the nation.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Yes too many beltway bandits and very low productive government employees out in DC. It is very difficult to get RIFfed (laidoff) when in the govt. This is holding up the market in DC.

I spent a couple years after college in the govt…..hated it. I saw alot of waste, lazy employees, questionable programs, expenditures, duplication, revolving door between contractors and govt.. etc….

I will miss the Bay, mountains – Skyline drive, very rich cultural, social life of dc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Yes too many beltway bandits and very low productive government employees out in DC. It is very difficult to get RIFfed (laidoff) when in the govt. This is holding up the market in DC.

I spent a couple years after college in the govt…..hated it. I saw alot of waste, lazy employees, questionable programs, expenditures, duplication, revolving door between contractors and govt.. etc….

I will miss the Bay, mountains – Skyline drive, very rich cultural, social life of dc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Yes too many beltway bandits and very low productive government employees out in DC. It is very difficult to get RIFfed (laidoff) when in the govt. This is holding up the market in DC.

I spent a couple years after college in the govt…..hated it. I saw alot of waste, lazy employees, questionable programs, expenditures, duplication, revolving door between contractors and govt.. etc….

I will miss the Bay, mountains – Skyline drive, very rich cultural, social life of dc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Yes too many beltway bandits and very low productive government employees out in DC. It is very difficult to get RIFfed (laidoff) when in the govt. This is holding up the market in DC.

I spent a couple years after college in the govt…..hated it. I saw alot of waste, lazy employees, questionable programs, expenditures, duplication, revolving door between contractors and govt.. etc….

I will miss the Bay, mountains – Skyline drive, very rich cultural, social life of dc.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Yes too many beltway bandits and very low productive government employees out in DC. It is very difficult to get RIFfed (laidoff) when in the govt. This is holding up the market in DC.

I spent a couple years after college in the govt…..hated it. I saw alot of waste, lazy employees, questionable programs, expenditures, duplication, revolving door between contractors and govt.. etc….

I will miss the Bay, mountains – Skyline drive, very rich cultural, social life of dc.

[paramount]

Having moved from the DC Area myself, it doesn’t seem like DC has taken the same hit as So. Cal. in terms of housing. And yet, the prices went straight up just like in So. Cal.

I consider the DC Area to be the largest welfare region in the country – and I am referring to all of the gov’t and gov’t related jobs. DC is recession proof by sucking the life blood out of the rest of the nation.

[paramount]

Having moved from the DC Area myself, it doesn’t seem like DC has taken the same hit as So. Cal. in terms of housing. And yet, the prices went straight up just like in So. Cal.

I consider the DC Area to be the largest welfare region in the country – and I am referring to all of the gov’t and gov’t related jobs. DC is recession proof by sucking the life blood out of the rest of the nation.

[paramount]

Having moved from the DC Area myself, it doesn’t seem like DC has taken the same hit as So. Cal. in terms of housing. And yet, the prices went straight up just like in So. Cal.

I consider the DC Area to be the largest welfare region in the country – and I am referring to all of the gov’t and gov’t related jobs. DC is recession proof by sucking the life blood out of the rest of the nation.

[paramount]

Having moved from the DC Area myself, it doesn’t seem like DC has taken the same hit as So. Cal. in terms of housing. And yet, the prices went straight up just like in So. Cal.

I consider the DC Area to be the largest welfare region in the country – and I am referring to all of the gov’t and gov’t related jobs. DC is recession proof by sucking the life blood out of the rest of the nation.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I guess the nicer areas are always the last to fall.

Been seeing similar thing in DC area, PG county and other areas have been hammered. Nicer areas like Great Falls, Potomac, Chevy Chase seem to be holding firm. Time will tell.

DC area is well diversified with alot of govt employees, Beltway Bandits (govt contractors), bio tech, etc. If govt spending craters it will get hit.

Friends in DOD are saying Navy budget is gonna get hammered in next budget cycle. It will probably trend down for next few years. Army and Marines have been bearing brunt of the continued Iraq, Afghan operations.

Although not considered a “Navy town” anymore, San Diego will probably get hit on this front also.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I guess the nicer areas are always the last to fall.

Been seeing similar thing in DC area, PG county and other areas have been hammered. Nicer areas like Great Falls, Potomac, Chevy Chase seem to be holding firm. Time will tell.

DC area is well diversified with alot of govt employees, Beltway Bandits (govt contractors), bio tech, etc. If govt spending craters it will get hit.

Friends in DOD are saying Navy budget is gonna get hammered in next budget cycle. It will probably trend down for next few years. Army and Marines have been bearing brunt of the continued Iraq, Afghan operations.

Although not considered a “Navy town” anymore, San Diego will probably get hit on this front also.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I guess the nicer areas are always the last to fall.

Been seeing similar thing in DC area, PG county and other areas have been hammered. Nicer areas like Great Falls, Potomac, Chevy Chase seem to be holding firm. Time will tell.

DC area is well diversified with alot of govt employees, Beltway Bandits (govt contractors), bio tech, etc. If govt spending craters it will get hit.

Friends in DOD are saying Navy budget is gonna get hammered in next budget cycle. It will probably trend down for next few years. Army and Marines have been bearing brunt of the continued Iraq, Afghan operations.

Although not considered a “Navy town” anymore, San Diego will probably get hit on this front also.

[NewtoSanDiego]

I guess the nicer areas are always the last to fall.

Been seeing similar thing in DC area, PG county and other areas have been hammered. Nicer areas like Great Falls, Potomac, Chevy Chase seem to be holding firm. Time will tell.

DC area is well diversified with alot of govt employees, Beltway Bandits (govt contractors), bio tech, etc. If govt spending craters it will get hit.

Friends in DOD are saying Navy budget is gonna get hammered in next budget cycle. It will probably trend down for next few years. Army and Marines have been bearing brunt of the continued Iraq, Afghan operations.

Although not considered a “Navy town” anymore, San Diego will probably get hit on this front also.

[SD Realtor]

Don’t expect much relief this spring if you are looking at coastal properties, especially detached homes. My expectations are that later in the summer you should see a bit of relief. I have seen alot of listings coming on line again and the inventory is starting to roll up. In places like Scripps, PQ and MM I have even seen REO and shorts come out with very aggressive pricing. Those that do get alot of activities and even offers. Spring is typically a seasonal boon for real estate.

No this is not an endorsement of a bull market. Just a statement that there is ALOT more activity in Feb/March/April then there is in July/Aug/Sept.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

Don’t expect much relief this spring if you are looking at coastal properties, especially detached homes. My expectations are that later in the summer you should see a bit of relief. I have seen alot of listings coming on line again and the inventory is starting to roll up. In places like Scripps, PQ and MM I have even seen REO and shorts come out with very aggressive pricing. Those that do get alot of activities and even offers. Spring is typically a seasonal boon for real estate.

No this is not an endorsement of a bull market. Just a statement that there is ALOT more activity in Feb/March/April then there is in July/Aug/Sept.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

Don’t expect much relief this spring if you are looking at coastal properties, especially detached homes. My expectations are that later in the summer you should see a bit of relief. I have seen alot of listings coming on line again and the inventory is starting to roll up. In places like Scripps, PQ and MM I have even seen REO and shorts come out with very aggressive pricing. Those that do get alot of activities and even offers. Spring is typically a seasonal boon for real estate.

No this is not an endorsement of a bull market. Just a statement that there is ALOT more activity in Feb/March/April then there is in July/Aug/Sept.

SD Realtor

[SD Realtor]

Don’t expect much relief this spring if you are looking at coastal properties, especially detached homes. My expectations are that later in the summer you should see a bit of relief. I have seen alot of listings coming on line again and the inventory is starting to roll up. In places like Scripps, PQ and MM I have even seen REO and shorts come out with very aggressive pricing. Those that do get alot of activities and even offers. Spring is typically a seasonal boon for real estate.

No this is not an endorsement of a bull market. Just a statement that there is ALOT more activity in Feb/March/April then there is in July/Aug/Sept.

SD Realtor

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for all the comments.

I’m in corporate furnish housing, looking around with a relo realtor this weekend.

They are takng me up the coast, any thoughts on housing market this spring. I expect a tough one for sellers.

Will probably decide to wait out the market for year or two.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for all the comments.

I’m in corporate furnish housing, looking around with a relo realtor this weekend.

They are takng me up the coast, any thoughts on housing market this spring. I expect a tough one for sellers.

Will probably decide to wait out the market for year or two.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for all the comments.

I’m in corporate furnish housing, looking around with a relo realtor this weekend.

They are takng me up the coast, any thoughts on housing market this spring. I expect a tough one for sellers.

Will probably decide to wait out the market for year or two.

[NewtoSanDiego]

Thanks for all the comments.

I’m in corporate furnish housing, looking around with a relo realtor this weekend.

They are takng me up the coast, any thoughts on housing market this spring. I expect a tough one for sellers.

Will probably decide to wait out the market for year or two.

[raptorduck]

That Marine layer does indeed cover the coast a lot during a certain part of the year. I remember it well when I lived in Del Mar on 10th street, 50 yards from the beach.

It was the best place I have ever lived. If I could find the kind of house/land sf I need in that same neighborhood, I would be all over it. But I can’t so I will just have to visit. Interestingly, the house I lived in, was owned by folks who lived in RSF. Once their kids were out of the house, they sold the RSF house and moved in (and booted me and my roomate out).

I moved to CV after that. Nice, but not nearly as nice as I had before. Of course still nice enough for me to skip around singing “I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego.”

[raptorduck]

That Marine layer does indeed cover the coast a lot during a certain part of the year. I remember it well when I lived in Del Mar on 10th street, 50 yards from the beach.

It was the best place I have ever lived. If I could find the kind of house/land sf I need in that same neighborhood, I would be all over it. But I can’t so I will just have to visit. Interestingly, the house I lived in, was owned by folks who lived in RSF. Once their kids were out of the house, they sold the RSF house and moved in (and booted me and my roomate out).

I moved to CV after that. Nice, but not nearly as nice as I had before. Of course still nice enough for me to skip around singing “I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego.”

[raptorduck]

That Marine layer does indeed cover the coast a lot during a certain part of the year. I remember it well when I lived in Del Mar on 10th street, 50 yards from the beach.

It was the best place I have ever lived. If I could find the kind of house/land sf I need in that same neighborhood, I would be all over it. But I can’t so I will just have to visit. Interestingly, the house I lived in, was owned by folks who lived in RSF. Once their kids were out of the house, they sold the RSF house and moved in (and booted me and my roomate out).

I moved to CV after that. Nice, but not nearly as nice as I had before. Of course still nice enough for me to skip around singing “I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego, I live in San Diego.”

[4Sbuyer2002]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time. Much more so than if you live just a few miles inland. For my money east of the I-5 and west of I-15 is better. The temps are still significantly cooler than east county but you are back from the coast far enough that the marine layer isn’t such an issue. In the case of 4S it sits at the head of the Carmel Valley and inland from San Dieguito Lagoon with no mountains in between 4S and the coast. On a clear day you can see the water from where I live in 4S (no I’m not trying to make an “ocean view” case but make the point that the lack mountains between 4S and the coast gives it the moderating coastal influence.) Thus it gets a nice coastal influence which moderates the climate stays several degrees cooler in summer than further inland. On many days when it is sunny and clear in 4S you will have overcast and marine layer in Del Mar (the coastal community you end up at if you head directly west) is cloudy and overcast. Bottom line. If you can afford it coastal living in San Diego is great. Its cooler but has many more couldy and overcast days due to the marine layer effect. I guess it all depends on your preference. I spent a summer in Texas (1985). I can assure you. The hotter than hell humid soup that is a Texas summer is a far cry from what you get during the summer in the communities east of I-5 and west of I-15.

grateful owner . . . .

[4Sbuyer2002]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time. Much more so than if you live just a few miles inland. For my money east of the I-5 and west of I-15 is better. The temps are still significantly cooler than east county but you are back from the coast far enough that the marine layer isn’t such an issue. In the case of 4S it sits at the head of the Carmel Valley and inland from San Dieguito Lagoon with no mountains in between 4S and the coast. On a clear day you can see the water from where I live in 4S (no I’m not trying to make an “ocean view” case but make the point that the lack mountains between 4S and the coast gives it the moderating coastal influence.) Thus it gets a nice coastal influence which moderates the climate stays several degrees cooler in summer than further inland. On many days when it is sunny and clear in 4S you will have overcast and marine layer in Del Mar (the coastal community you end up at if you head directly west) is cloudy and overcast. Bottom line. If you can afford it coastal living in San Diego is great. Its cooler but has many more couldy and overcast days due to the marine layer effect. I guess it all depends on your preference. I spent a summer in Texas (1985). I can assure you. The hotter than hell humid soup that is a Texas summer is a far cry from what you get during the summer in the communities east of I-5 and west of I-15.

grateful owner . . . .

[4Sbuyer2002]

Realize that if you live west of I-5 you will be overcast and under a marine layer much of the time. Much more so than if you live just a few miles inland. For my money east of the I-5 and west of I-15 is better. The temps are still significantly cooler than east county but you are back from the coast far enough that the marine layer isn’t such an issue. In the case of 4S it sits at the head of the Carmel Valley and inland from San Dieguito Lagoon with no mountains in between 4S and the coast. On a clear day you can see the water from where I live in 4S (no I’m not trying to make an “ocean view” case but make the point that the lack mountains between 4S and the coast gives it the moderating coastal influence.) Thus it gets a nice coastal influence which moderates the climate stays several degrees cooler in summer than further inland. On many days when it is sunny and clear in 4S you will have overcast and marine layer in Del Mar (the coastal community you end up at if you head directly west) is cloudy and overcast. Bottom line. If you can afford it coastal living in San Diego is great. Its cooler but has many more couldy and overcast days due to the marine layer effect. I guess it all depends on your preference. I spent a summer in Texas (1985). I can assure you. The hotter than hell humid soup that is a Texas summer is a far cry from what you get during the summer in the communities east of I-5 and west of I-15.

grateful owner . . . .

[4plexowner]

I grew up in Texas so San Diego’s primary attraction for me is the weather

Something you will find after you move here is that the temperature increases about 1 degree for every mile you head inland from the coast

If you want to enjoy San Diego’s weather live west of I-5 – if heat is really an issue live in Pt Loma / Coronado (typically 2 degrees cooler than rest of town)

East of I-5 the afternoons can get warmer than I care for but the ocean breeze usually kicks in around 4 or 5 pm and then it is pleasant in most parts of the county

[4plexowner]

I grew up in Texas so San Diego’s primary attraction for me is the weather

Something you will find after you move here is that the temperature increases about 1 degree for every mile you head inland from the coast

If you want to enjoy San Diego’s weather live west of I-5 – if heat is really an issue live in Pt Loma / Coronado (typically 2 degrees cooler than rest of town)

East of I-5 the afternoons can get warmer than I care for but the ocean breeze usually kicks in around 4 or 5 pm and then it is pleasant in most parts of the county

[4plexowner]

I grew up in Texas so San Diego’s primary attraction for me is the weather

Something you will find after you move here is that the temperature increases about 1 degree for every mile you head inland from the coast

If you want to enjoy San Diego’s weather live west of I-5 – if heat is really an issue live in Pt Loma / Coronado (typically 2 degrees cooler than rest of town)

East of I-5 the afternoons can get warmer than I care for but the ocean breeze usually kicks in around 4 or 5 pm and then it is pleasant in most parts of the county

[4Sbuyer2002]

If your ruling out places based on vulnerability to fire . . . don’t rule out 4S Ranch. 4S Ranch and four other recently built communities in the Rancho Santa Fe fire district are probably the safest homes from fire ANYWHERE in San Diego. Not a single 4S home burned.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20071025/news_1n25stay.html#

The homes in 4S have been lauded as a model of how homes should be constructed in order to be “fire safe.”

The homes are deemed so safe that the fire department recommends you DO NOT evacuate during a wildfire like we had last week. The dangers inherent in evacuation are actually greater than staying in your home.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/education/preparedness/SIP_for_web.pdf

The homes in 4S have a variety of integrated features designed to make them “fire safe.”
http://www.rsf-fire.org/education/programs/adult_shelterinplace.asp

Moreover, firestorms like last month aside, even when some hairbrained 4S homeowner throws burning material into their garage with other combustibles and inevitably a fire starts. The fire safe features of the homes are so good the fires are immediately and automatically extinguished with little damage and no harm to occupants.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/news/news_releases/2005/100605%20Cayenne%20Creek%20Fire.pdf

Being nearer to the coast most likely wont make you safer for either of two reasons. 1) the homes are older and don’t have newer “fire safe” features, and 2) being right on the coast is NOT a gaurantee you aren’t going to be wiped out by a firestorm. Examples are Malibu in the most recent fires and most notably. Laguna Beach, CA in 1993
http://www.light-headed.com/asite/laguna/laguna_history/laguna_beach_fire.php

and the Oakland, CA fires of 1991.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Hills_firestorm

Rather than being close to the coast to protect you from fire, you are better off (in terms of fire protection) to buy a newer home with newer “fire safe” technology intergrated into the homes. 4S homes are the among the very safest from fires anywhere in San Diego.

There are pluses and minuses to 4S. And reasons to buy in 4S or not. However, in your original post you excluded 4S due to “fire danger.” That is not a reason to exclude 4S. In fact if you are worried about fires. 4S should be at the top of your list. Not my 2 cents but that of the experts quoted in the articles linked to herein.

grateful owner . . . .

[4Sbuyer2002]

If your ruling out places based on vulnerability to fire . . . don’t rule out 4S Ranch. 4S Ranch and four other recently built communities in the Rancho Santa Fe fire district are probably the safest homes from fire ANYWHERE in San Diego. Not a single 4S home burned.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20071025/news_1n25stay.html#

The homes in 4S have been lauded as a model of how homes should be constructed in order to be “fire safe.”

The homes are deemed so safe that the fire department recommends you DO NOT evacuate during a wildfire like we had last week. The dangers inherent in evacuation are actually greater than staying in your home.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/education/preparedness/SIP_for_web.pdf

The homes in 4S have a variety of integrated features designed to make them “fire safe.”
http://www.rsf-fire.org/education/programs/adult_shelterinplace.asp

Moreover, firestorms like last month aside, even when some hairbrained 4S homeowner throws burning material into their garage with other combustibles and inevitably a fire starts. The fire safe features of the homes are so good the fires are immediately and automatically extinguished with little damage and no harm to occupants.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/news/news_releases/2005/100605%20Cayenne%20Creek%20Fire.pdf

Being nearer to the coast most likely wont make you safer for either of two reasons. 1) the homes are older and don’t have newer “fire safe” features, and 2) being right on the coast is NOT a gaurantee you aren’t going to be wiped out by a firestorm. Examples are Malibu in the most recent fires and most notably. Laguna Beach, CA in 1993
http://www.light-headed.com/asite/laguna/laguna_history/laguna_beach_fire.php

and the Oakland, CA fires of 1991.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Hills_firestorm

Rather than being close to the coast to protect you from fire, you are better off (in terms of fire protection) to buy a newer home with newer “fire safe” technology intergrated into the homes. 4S homes are the among the very safest from fires anywhere in San Diego.

There are pluses and minuses to 4S. And reasons to buy in 4S or not. However, in your original post you excluded 4S due to “fire danger.” That is not a reason to exclude 4S. In fact if you are worried about fires. 4S should be at the top of your list. Not my 2 cents but that of the experts quoted in the articles linked to herein.

grateful owner . . . .

[4Sbuyer2002]

If your ruling out places based on vulnerability to fire . . . don’t rule out 4S Ranch. 4S Ranch and four other recently built communities in the Rancho Santa Fe fire district are probably the safest homes from fire ANYWHERE in San Diego. Not a single 4S home burned.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20071025/news_1n25stay.html#

The homes in 4S have been lauded as a model of how homes should be constructed in order to be “fire safe.”

The homes are deemed so safe that the fire department recommends you DO NOT evacuate during a wildfire like we had last week. The dangers inherent in evacuation are actually greater than staying in your home.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/education/preparedness/SIP_for_web.pdf

The homes in 4S have a variety of integrated features designed to make them “fire safe.”
http://www.rsf-fire.org/education/programs/adult_shelterinplace.asp

Moreover, firestorms like last month aside, even when some hairbrained 4S homeowner throws burning material into their garage with other combustibles and inevitably a fire starts. The fire safe features of the homes are so good the fires are immediately and automatically extinguished with little damage and no harm to occupants.
http://www.rsf-fire.org/assets/documents/news/news_releases/2005/100605%20Cayenne%20Creek%20Fire.pdf

Being nearer to the coast most likely wont make you safer for either of two reasons. 1) the homes are older and don’t have newer “fire safe” features, and 2) being right on the coast is NOT a gaurantee you aren’t going to be wiped out by a firestorm. Examples are Malibu in the most recent fires and most notably. Laguna Beach, CA in 1993
http://www.light-headed.com/asite/laguna/laguna_history/laguna_beach_fire.php

and the Oakland, CA fires of 1991.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Hills_firestorm

Rather than being close to the coast to protect you from fire, you are better off (in terms of fire protection) to buy a newer home with newer “fire safe” technology intergrated into the homes. 4S homes are the among the very safest from fires anywhere in San Diego.

There are pluses and minuses to 4S. And reasons to buy in 4S or not. However, in your original post you excluded 4S due to “fire danger.” That is not a reason to exclude 4S. In fact if you are worried about fires. 4S should be at the top of your list. Not my 2 cents but that of the experts quoted in the articles linked to herein.

grateful owner . . . .

[Author]

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