Thinking about moving to SD or OC... (San Diego, Encinitas: new home, buyers)

[Epark2112]

Hello!

My husband and I are looking to move to a warmer climate. We currently live in a cold part of the western U. S. We are not working with a realtor, yet. We are starting a general research after having spent a good bit of time in OC and SD. Our challenge is finding a good fit within our budget, which is likely the challenge for some home buyers.

We are looking for:

1. We prefer a bit of space and privacy. We'd like at least a half acre for our kid, pets and gardening.
2. Good to excellent schools are also a requirement for our son, entering 8th grade next fall. We would also consider private school. Ideally, we'd like a community for him where not only is attaining a solid education key, but equally important is a loving and positive school environment.
3. We don't require a brand new home or prestigious address. An older fixer upper would be OK as long as it is not in shambles.
4. We also love tennis, but having a tennis court is certainly not required. I've seen some properties online in RSF that have tennis courts in our price range. Seems too good to be true.
5. We hope this is our last relocation. My husband is 54 and I am 47. We'd like for this to be our forever home as we enjoy our active senior years in a warmer climate!!!

Our price range is 1.2 M and up. Would rather stay closer to 1M but can go higher. I know finding a property with some space is a challenge, but I am hoping the knowledgeable people on this forum can help.

Thank you!

[TacoSoup]

Poway. It’s a very family oriented town with arguably the best school district in the county, and plenty of great houses on .5 acre + lots. There’s lots of retirees too that stayed after their kids left. I grew up there and many of my friends houses are exactly what you’re looking for, well within your price range too. Good luck with whatever you decide, you’ll have plenty of options with your budget.

[RosieSD]

Poway is a good suggestion. I'd also add the Olivenhain area of Encinitas to your list of possibilities. Like Poway, you'll find larger lots there and the schools are excellent. (I suspect that some of those "RSF" listings you're seeing may actually be in Olivenhain. which borders parts of RSF)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliven...as,_California

[TacoSoup]

Originally Posted by RosieSD

Poway is a good suggestion. I'd also add the Olivenhain area of Encinitas to your list of possibilities. Like Poway, you'll find larger lots there and the schools are excellent. (I suspect that some of those "RSF" listings you're seeing may actually be in Olivenhain. which borders parts of RSF)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliven...as,_California

Without a doubt Olivenhain. I’d rather live there over Poway due to the proximity to the beach. I just suggested Poway as I’m very familiar with it from a family standpoint.

[RosieSD]

Originally Posted by TacoSoup

Without a doubt Olivenhain. I’d rather live there over Poway due to the proximity to the beach. I just suggested Poway as I’m very familiar with it from a family standpoint.

Funny thing is, I'd probably choose Poway over Olivenhain. My inland roots run deep, I guess.

But, both would no doubt be great starting points for the OP. There are many other great areas in San Diego County too, of course.

[Epark2112]

Thank you, TacoSoup and RosieSD. I really appreciate the suggestions!