Thinking about living in Carlsbad, CA? It's a great place! That's where we relocated to when we moved from the East Coast. However, here are some things to think about if you are new to the area.
Three School Systems
In many areas of the country, the school systems follow the municipal boundaries; this is not the case in Carlsbad, and there are three different school systems within its boundaries. The Carlsbad Unified School District (“CUSD”) covers most of the city, including Olde Carlsbad, north Carlsbad, and Aviara. The area east of the La Costa golf course is part of the San Marcos Unified School District, and the area south of La Costa Ave is part of the Encinitas Union Elementary and San Dieguito Union High School Districts. Because of all the growth, Carlsbad may be issuing a bond to build a new high school and refurbish its middle schools. The high school bill passed, and so the new high school should open around 2011. School scores vary across districts, so if you have school age children, you will want to ask us for more information.
Four Sets of Power Lines
The Carlsbad power station near Agua Hedionda Lagoon supplies much of the power for the area. Four sets of high tension wires leave the power station and crisscross Carlsbad as they move north, east and south. The large wires are about 750,000 volts. Because the wires cross so much territory, many homes were built within sight of the lines. If power lines are a concern for aesthetic or health reasons, make sure to let us know. You may also wish to check out our Power Lines Map on our web site.
Flight Path
Palomar Airport is a GREAT airport with free long-term parking and a single gate. You can easily get through security in 5 minutes and then hop a prop plane to LAX where you can go anywhere in the world. If you like to travel, this is a tremendous convenience.
However, for home buying, you might consider the flight path. For example, Bressi Ranch was built parallel to the westerly descent path. Planes heading north will typically take off due west over primarily commercial areas and then fly over the water to LAX.
Palomar has become one of the busiest private jet airports, and it also serves as a helicopter landing center. If plane and helicopter noise bothers you, let us know.
Beaches
Living by the beach is a luxury. Along Carlsbad State Beach, people walk and ride their bikes on the long sidewalks. Breathing the fresh ocean breeze and smelling the salty air is relaxing and healthy. If you want newer construction with easy access to the water, then you should check out Hanover Beach Colony and Poinsettia Cove. If you are willing to buy an older home that may or may not be remodeled, then moving to the area of old Carlsbad with the tree names (e.g., Chestnut) is a good choice.
If you have not lived near the water, there are a couple of things that you should know. First, at different times of the year, the coast can have a thick marine layer of moisture (e.g., “Gray May”) that may not burn off until noon. Also, the salty air can take a huge toll on a home, especially exposed metal, including windows and lawn furniture. Simply put, there is more upkeep. When buying near the beach, it is important to have a strong home inspection. We will be glad to assist in giving you the names of some good inspectors.
Sun Belt
The sun belt is the area a couple of miles inland from the water. Because the moist air heats as it moves over the land, the fog dissipates and the eastern areas still enjoy the cool breezes and a greater amount of sunshine. Because the homes are not on the water, the home cost is more modest, and you are within a 10 minute drive to the water.
55+ Living
Carlsbad lacks in a variety of senior living options. Though Carlsbad has La Costa Glen, a retirement community with assisted living, the only 55+ restricted communities are mobile home parks. Consequently, many seniors elect to live in one of the many gated communities in Aviara. Senior alternatives are available in Oceanside and Encinitas, so just ask us for more information.
See my web site for detailed information about the Carlsbad homes available for purchase. Call me with your questions.
Margaret (760) 942-4242
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