There are several ways to tackle finding a new home in the San
Diego area. If possible, try to drive around and explore before
deciding on a specific area to live in. SPECIAL NOTE: The
contrast in weather between the coast and the inland valleys and foothills can
be quite noticeable, keep this in mind as you search the area for your
prospective home.
One of the best ways to locate
a new home is to stop by the Housing Referral Office at the Military Family
Housing Welcome Center at COMNAVBASE San Diego, about 5 miles south of
MCRD. Visit one of the counselors and discuss the location you
prefer, type of home (apartment, condo, house), number of bedrooms, baths,
amenities, amount of rent you want to spend, etc. The Housing
Referral Offices have computer listings of apartments, condos and homes
available for rent in San Diego. The computer program will "match up"
your requirements with properties currently available in San Diego and print out
a list of places to see. The Housing Referral Offices also have a
listing of condos and homes for sale in San Diego. Information on special
programs such as the Rental Partnership Program (Active Duty) and the Security
Deposit Guarantee Program (for E1 - E5) is available to assist eligible service
members with move-in costs associated with renting in the civilian
community.
Among the other services also offered
at the Military Family Housing Welcome Center is the availability of an in-house
Realtor who can provide assistance in finding a realty company that will work
with you to find a new home or condo to rent or
purchase.
TIP: You may wish to contact the Police Department
or Fire Department in the community that appeals to you and ask their advice
regarding safety and crime problems in the neighborhood you are
considering.
Cost of Rental Housing
(Average):
RENTAL($)/UTILITIES($) - Apartment (1 Bdrm) $825.00 /
$90.00+ - Apartment (2 Bdrm) $1050.00 / $105.00+ -
Apartment (3 Bdrm) $1250.00 / $115.00+ - Apartment (4
Bdrm) $1,500.00 / $150.00+ Deposits are generally equal
to one month's rent. Some units require a security deposit equal to
two month's rent. The Housing Referral Office has special programs to
assist with security deposit installment payments and reduced
rents.
The majority of three-bedroom units are
single family homes rather than apartment units. Four-bedroom
apartments are extremely rare.
Those landlords
who accept pets may require an additional security
deposit.
Housing Referral Office personnel will
be happy to assist you in locating suitable housing in the
community.