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"The question that challenges every renter: Keep renting or buy my first home? If you find yourself skimming rental properties and new-home websites simultaneously, you’re probably on the fence.

You might be surprised to discover that a new-construction home in San Marcos could be on the horizon for you this year.

According to February 2020 Apartment List data, the median rent for a San Marcos two-bedroom unit is $2,030. Neighboring Carlsbad has the most expensive rent in the San Diego metropolitan area, with a two-bedroom median of $2,546.

Rancho Tesoro — a new-construction, master-planned community located off Twin Oaks Valley Road in San Marcos — has new townhomes for sale with pricing from the $400,000s.

Let’s break it down: With a sales price of $465,000, a loan amount of $372,000, a minimum credit score of 740 and a note rate of 3.990 percent (4.044 percent APR), you may be able to get a monthly payment close to $2,752 including HOA, through a designated lender.

When North County coastal renters Ben and Candace started home shopping, they came across Rancho Tesoro and were pleased with the value.

'We wanted to buy and we wanted a lot more room,' Ben said. 'The price per square foot and what you’re getting is a great deal.'"