New subdivision proposed amid record median price for SD County home

LA MESA, Calif. — The new Cantera community in La Mesa is hitting the market with more affordable options compared to the county’s new median home price.

The median price of a home or condo has reached a new record, now reaching $880,000 in San Diego County.

“Anytime you can find something starting in the $600,000s and not going over $900,000, that’s a win for any new owner,” said Michael Grandy of Whissel Realty Group.

Grandy is the listing agent for the 32 homes in the development. The properties are all technically considered condos, but are isolated from their neighbors. They are built in a style and location that you don’t see every day.

“We wanted it very modern, very unique and suited to the side. The site is unique. It’s an old rock quarry,” Kristine Alessio, vice-president of NTC Development. NTC Development is partnered with High Street 34, the developer of Cantera.

Two New Trader Joe’s Stores Coming to San Diego County: Here’s Where

Cantera is located on High Street near the 125/94 interchange. With new construction and affordable housing, many developers are having to think outside the box.

“It’s about using a site that wasn’t used before and it’s a product to sell. This is really what we need right now. It’s a sell-and-sell product for the entry-level buyer,” said La Mesa City Manager Greg Humora.

Four of the homes will be listed in the high $600,000 range and reserved as affordable housing. Buyers will need to meet specific criteria to be eligible.

“People need housing and they need housing where they live and work and that’s why infill development is so important,” Alessio said.

Homes will be sold as advertised on a first come, first served basis. Grandy says the goal is to keep the homes as affordable as possible.

“We’re not looking for any type of huge bidding war or anything like that, so come in and make the offer at list price. Until there are 10 people offering the same products in the same house, you know you’re going to get in at that price,” Grandy said.

Homes can be viewed by the public from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, and then 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until the homes are sold. The houses, still under construction, should be ready by the end of the year.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming video, visit FOX 5 San Diego and KUSI News.