Tehachapi (rent, buy, gated)

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We drove through town recently and really liked the area. It had a lot of charm and small town feel (I guess because it's a small town!)

So could someone recommend an area close to town where we could buy some acreage? Something under $100k? What about Mountain Meadows?

We DO NOT want to be in a development or gated area like the several communities we've read about near by.

What are the most desirable areas near town? Is downtown a safe place? What if we rent in downtown while looking?

Thanks so much for anyone who can give some local advice...

[WindyBird]

Well, Tehachapi is still a pretty small town, but it's growing. Mountain Meadows is a nice area, but I don't know if you'll be able to find a house with acreage for under $100k, unless you look into bank repos. Some of the areas in Golden Hills and Oak Knolls are nice, but again, if you're looking for a house and property, under $100k is slim pickins.
Downtown is an ok area. It's a safe area as far as violence, but I know a few people who've had their cars broken into. Also, keep in mind the proximity to the train tracks. The trains can be quite loud. There are few older homes in the downtown area around the $100k range, but they generally need a little work.