My friend Affinity chided me for looking outside of the Bay Area and away from family, when I can very well retire here at home. She was totally right. She wrote a guest blog post on retiring early here. It was one of my most highly-trafficked posts.
I spent some time on Zillow and found the following places. There are some serious deals to be had.
$250,000 – 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Vallejo, CA – 30 minutes to wine country, 40 minutes to SF by car
It’s like a cheap version of Falcon Crest or Dallas, right? Clearly a little dated, but definitely has character. A retired couple like me and Dean have no need for 3 bedrooms, but just wanted to showcase the breadth of what’s available.
—–
$169,000 – 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in Hayward, CA – 1 hour to wine country, 30 minutes to SF by car
This is perfect! 1 bathroom for me, 1 bathroom for Dean. 1 bedroom for me, 1 bedroom for Dean. Haha! This place is a score at the price. I might have to buy it now. Rent this place out and have it completely paid for by the time we retire. Who I am kidding? We can write a check for the list price, forego the mortgage, save 4% on interest, and rent to college students since Cal State Hayward is across the street! I’m seriously going to ponder this investment.
—–
$155,000 – 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home in Concord, CA – 45 minutes to wine country, 35 minutes to SF by car
This price is a steal. I am tasting retirement! 55 here we come.
































































