Chula Vista, California real estate: family homes south of San Diego

The western side is older and closer to the bay, the Bayfront is being redeveloped, and the eastern master-planned neighbourhoods such as Eastlake and Otay Ranch have newer houses, parks and trails. Many residents commute to San Diego by car or trolley, and cross-border workers are common. Compare San Diego, Coronado, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, El Cajon and Spring Valley.

Wildfire risk is greater at the eastern edge.

West Chula Vista has older, smaller homes closer to the bay, with a mix of bungalows and mid-century houses. Eastern districts have larger newer houses, community pools and parks, often under HOA rules. Condos near the Bayfront are likely to benefit from the waterfront redevelopment, though timing is uncertain. Check commute times at peak hours on the 805 and 5, and consider noise from the airport flight path in some western streets.

US law does not stop non-citizens buying a house, but you will need to explain the source of funds to the escrow and lender. California bases annual property tax on the sale price, around 1% plus special levies, and new developments in the east often carry Mello-Roos. Rental income is taxable in the US, and an accountant can explain treaty rules. A sale by a foreign owner triggers FIRPTA withholding, so plan ahead.

Read our US buying guide and US mortgage guide. More at the United States overview.