Bonsall or San Marcos/Vista? (Escondido, Fallbrook: apartments, condos, houses)

[htnspz]

Hi All,
My husband is stationed at Camp Pendleton and we are thinking of a house purchase up North from Pacific Beach. I just don't know how to rate the areas. Is Bonsall nicer than San Marcos or is San Marcos nicer than Vista? How would you rate them and why?

Thanks in advance for any advice. I've done a search on here and gathered some info but am just trying to decide between the areas.

[esmith143]

San Marcos is definitely nicer than Vista. One of the nicest places in North County that won't cost you an arm and a leg. Avoid gang areas and you'll be fine.

Bonsall is very different from those two, it's a rural agricultural/estate type community, lots of nice but also very expensive houses. Unless you got a million dollar inheritance , you won't have much to choose from.

[dweej]

Between the three, I'll agree that San Marcos is your best bet. Bonsall is a little secluded and getting in and out of there is a pain! I used to live in Fallbrook and it takes forever to get anywhere. Vista has a lot of...and please, no one freak out!..."sketchy"....areas. Not that there aren't great people and all, but if you're choosing without living here for a while, San Marcos is the way to go. Good luck!

[htnspz]

Well, I've found a house I like in Bonsall, but wasn't sure if I should go for San Marcos instead. If Bonsall is a better area, then shouldn't I go for that one? I just don't know if it is considered a nicer area than San Marcos or Vista. The house is nice but it is located across from an agricultural zoned area than may be developed into houses/condos or even apartments. I'm just not sure if this is a case of the "ugliest house in the nicest neighborhood" kind of thing. After all, Bonsall is out of the way. Any thoughts?

[dweej]

Originally Posted by htnspz

Well, I've found a house I like in Bonsall, but wasn't sure if I should go for San Marcos instead. If Bonsall is a better area, then shouldn't I go for that one? I just don't know if it is considered a nicer area than San Marcos or Vista. The house is nice but it is located across from an agricultural zoned area than may be developed into houses/condos or even apartments. I'm just not sure if this is a case of the "ugliest house in the nicest neighborhood" kind of thing. After all, Bonsall is out of the way. Any thoughts?

Hmmmm, I know it's tempting, when you think you've found the 'perfect' place, but honestly, if you don't need land for your riding stable or your avocado grove, you will be so much happier in San Marcos. It's easier to get the beach, to get to S.D., to get to Escondido (hello!!! Nordstroms!!! Not that I can afford it, but I love it just the same... ). Bonsall very nice for visiting, but it is a little boring to live there. Plus, not a lot of choices/variety for employment and schooling. If you're thinking about that for resale, you'd better go with San Marcos.