Where to buy near coast for retirement

[former SoCal]

Hi, I am originally from Southern California, mostly Orange County but due to job transfer lives in Northern Ca. We plan to retire back “home” where the rest of my family lives. If the housing prices drops enough, would like to invest in my retirement home. Looking for a safe place, good climate for growing subtropical fruits. Orange county, San Diego county or anywhere in between would be good. Probably need a yard although not too large. What are good zip codes to look at? Good value for the money. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[SD Realtor]

Hi Former SoCal –

Hard to say… I know both regions very well… The statement, if housing prices drop enough is a somewhat subjective remark. Everyone here agrees prices will drop though we have differing views as to how much how fast. What is your timeframe, and how close to the coast do you need/want to be?

SD Realtor

[former SoCal]

I won’t be able to retire for 10 years but would like to buy during a dip rather then wait 10 years and not be able to afford it. I think 25% off the peak may be enough, as I said haven’t kept up with prices in S. Cal. I would like to be say within 20 miles or the coast or at least not very hot if there is a local cool spot. I heard that Temecula has a nice microclimate for wine and is cheap but don’t know if that’s ocean influenced or not. Basically I want to grow bananas and stuff like that, warm weather but not hot and dry like that desert. I also lived in the high desert as a child (near San Bernardino) and don’t want to be that hot in my dotage.

[Bugs]

The area north of the city of Vista and east of Oceanside has some nurseries that specialize in exotics. The climate in that area matches your criteria, too.

[eccen in esc]

eccen in esc

Fallbrook is nice for bananas and subtropicals and is reasonably priced with large lots. Keep your eye one the market and buy when it hits bottom.

[sdrealtor]

San Marcos east of San Marcos Boulevard might also fit your bill regarding climate. On the fringes of the eastern edge of the city are some nice areas at higher elevations away from crowds. You just have to know where to look.

[Author]

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