San Diego has a wide range of homes and prices to go with them. There are some of the most exclusive communities and homes in the world here, with some of the most expensive property values. On the flip side of the coin, there are many neighborhoods that are very affordable. So no matter what your budget, there is a property that is right for you.
In many parts of San Diego County, there are very upscale neighborhoods. In fact, one of the most expensive homes that ever sold in the United States was in Del Mar. This ocean front property sold in 2007 for $48,150,000.You may think this sale price is a little on the high side, particularly when you take into consideration that a medium priced home in San Diego in 2007, sold for under $600,000. However, this Del Mar home did have more than 10,000 square feet of living space, six bedrooms, four bathrooms and it sat right on the ocean with breathtaking views of the sea. If you break this down to a square foot price, it sold for an amazing $4,500 per square foot.
Del Mar is not the only posh neighborhood in San Diego. There is also La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Fairbanks Ranch, Cardiff by the Sea, Kensington and Mission Hills, just to name a few. San Diego has been and remains the home to many celebrities, business moguls and high profile political figures. Not to name drop, but individuals like international superstar Janet Jackson and the McDonald’s restaurant billionaire, Joan Kroc, have made San Diego their home.
But you do not have to be a superstar or a billionaire to live here. There are many great areas in San Diego to live that are very affordable, particularly because it continues to be a buyer’s housing market. Typically you are going to pay a premium to live in any of the coastal communities, whether you are buying or renting. But as you go further inland, properties generally become more affordable.
There are so many beautiful and diverse neighborhoods throughout San Diego, some of which are not well known. One example is Rolando Village. It is located just two miles southeast of San Diego State University, between El Cajon Boulevard and University Avenue. It is a charming community and homes start in the low $200,000 range. In that same price range you can also find homes in nice neighborhoods like La Mesa, Linda Vista, North Park, Chula Vista, Escondido and many other areas throughout the county.
It continues to be a great time to buy property, anywhere in San Diego. If you are renting, then you should consider taking advantage of this buyer’s market and buy a home. You may be surprised at how affordable it can be, particularly because mortgage interest rates continue to be low. In many cases, you can purchase a home for around the same amount that you are paying for rent. In addition, there are many other great benefits to home ownership.
If you already own a home, then you may want to look into buying an income property to add to your financial portfolio. Although real estate values go up and down, it has always been one of the best investments in the world throughout history. Whether it is a small condo, a single detached home or an apartment building, there is usually something for everyone’s budget.
If you want a lot of “bang for your buck,” there are many other beautiful communities in San Diego that are quite elegant and upscale, like Mount Helix and Fletcher Hills. You will get great value in these areas because they are more inland. One of many examples is a Fletcher Hills view home with over 4,000 square feet of living space, five bedrooms, six bathrooms, family room, pool, built-in barbecue and unbelievable views from most every room. This property is listed at a range of $899,000 to $929,000 and is a lot of house for the money. A similar property, anywhere along the coast, would be a least twice the price.
No matter where you live in San Diego, you can enjoy this picturesque coastal town, the beautiful climate and all the incredible things that this special city has to offer.
Trent St. Louis is a licensed Real Estate Agent
and a member of the National, California and
San Diego Association of Realtors. He can be reached at trent@tns.net or at his office in Hillcrest, The Metropolitan Group. DRE#01273643.
