Want to move to wine country, but... CA broke? (Sonoma: renting, home) - Sacramento - California - City-Data Forum

gth617 · 12-28-2008, 04:45 PM

Hi everyone,

I've been dreaming of moving to wine country for a few years now. Probably Sonoma, or nearby.

On the surface, the recent crash of the housing market looks like an opportunity, but I am concerned about the impending bankruptcy of the state and possibly other towns in the area; the unemployment rate; the flight of businesses and the tax base; the high cost of living; potential tax increases; etc.

In short, I'm afraid that I'd be boarding a sinking ship, and paying dearly to do it.

Should I forget about moving to California at this time? Maybe wait a few years to let the storm pass, and then take another look? Or, should I jump in while home prices are low, and ride it out?

I am currently living in Massachusetts, and I work from home for a company based in Texas, doing software design. So, I don't need to find a job locally (unless I should happen to lose my current one... but there doesn't seem to be any danger of that right now... in fact, my department is actually hiring.)

Lew_B · 01-01-2009, 01:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gth617

In short, I'm afraid that I'd be boarding a sinking ship, and paying dearly to do it.

I am afraid this may well be the case. I know whatever our elected bozo's come up with will certainly cost me dearly and will only be a band-aid until July when it all starts again. Then, it will most likely cost me more, for the pay raises they will vote themselves. Until California stops the pork spending and lives within its means this ship will continue to spiral downward.

GLS · 01-01-2009, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gth617

Hi everyone,

I've been dreaming of moving to wine country for a few years now. Probably Sonoma, or nearby.

On the surface, the recent crash of the housing market looks like an opportunity, but I am concerned about the impending bankruptcy of the state and possibly other towns in the area; the unemployment rate; the flight of businesses and the tax base; the high cost of living; potential tax increases; etc.

In short, I'm afraid that I'd be boarding a sinking ship, and paying dearly to do it.

Should I forget about moving to California at this time? Maybe wait a few years to let the storm pass, and then take another look? Or, should I jump in while home prices are low, and ride it out?

I am currently living in Massachusetts, and I work from home for a company based in Texas, doing software design. So, I don't need to find a job locally (unless I should happen to lose my current one... but there doesn't seem to be any danger of that right now... in fact, my department is actually hiring.)

California legislators IQ's are not appreciably lower than your Federal representatives. Since you are now in Massachusetts, comparing the destruction done by Barney Franks to the idiocy of Nancy Pelosi, invites tears of hysterical laughter. My point is that the concerns you express, while valid, point to a NATIONAL problem.

Therefore, if you really want to move to wine country AND your job is stable, go for it. If the country is going to circle the drain, at least sit on your porch in the California sunshine, looking at the vineyards with a glass of wine in your hand. Good luck.

gth617 · 01-04-2009, 01:05 PM

Yes, and Massachusetts is facing its own $1 billion shortfall (on top of the previously expected 1.1 billion that already forced budget cuts). Considering that some of my federal tax dollars will be going toward a bailout of California, I may as well enjoy what I'm paying for!

shiphead · 01-04-2009, 01:59 PM

holy crap. What happened to government budgeting.

gth617 · 01-04-2009, 05:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by w1ngzer0

holy crap. What happened to government budgeting.

It's based on wishes, hopes, and short-term thinking. You only get away with that as long as the economy keeps booming.

GLS · 01-04-2009, 11:48 PM

Addendum: I have lived in "wine country" near the Fairplay viticultural area for over 20 years. My wine consumption helps mitigate the assininity of California politics.

12buttons · 01-04-2009, 11:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gth617

It's based on wishes, hopes, and short-term thinking. You only get away with that as long as the economy keeps booming.

do you plan on buying or renting? it would certainly be two different scenarios

gth617 · 01-05-2009, 08:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 12buttons

do you plan on buying or renting? it would certainly be two different scenarios

I'm looking to buy.

SpencerLV · 01-05-2009, 12:25 PM

California always seems to boom and bust throughout history, and the state is great about reinventing itself with world-changing industries, e.g. gold rush, Hollywood, agriculture capital, tech boom, etc. In fact, this is the most "affordable" pricey areas of California have been in a very long time, and you are fortunate that your location is not dependent on a job. Look at our downturn as a great opportunity to get in while it's relatively cheap: I would definitely buy now, especially if you are planning on being here for the longer term. The state and its housing market will come back.

Also, having recently moved here from the East Coast myself, I can tell you that I do not miss the snow and ice one tiny bit, and I love being so close to such beautiful areas in this state. Hope it works out for you, and good luck!