How did first-time buyers get a $650,000 Chula Vista townhome for $590,000?
By waiting out a stretch where nothing fit, then offering well under asking on a Chula Vista townhome that had sat on the market a long time. It was listed at $650,000. We got it for $590,000 in November 2025, with $17,000 in credits and repairs covered. I'm Jared Harman, their agent.
Published . Last updated . Figures are from my own records unless a source is linked.
Where did this search start?
Two first-time buyers reached out in early 2025. They wanted to stop renting and own, and they had no idea where to start. I connected them with a lender, who put them on a preparation plan.
Why did the search stall?
Everything that fit was too expensive, and everything in budget had something wrong with it. So we put the search on hold instead of forcing it.
While they waited, the market shifted. Prices still felt high, but homes were sitting longer.
Why offer so far under asking?
Because the townhome had been sitting. When a property's been on the market that long, I think you can ask for the world and see where it gets you. Every once in a while you get lucky. This was one of those.
We're in a buyer's market, and we have been for a little while now. They didn't stretch the budget. We went in well below asking, and it worked.
What did the inspection turn up?
A leak under the bathtub. That's where the repair money came from. The sellers paid a repair invoice, and the buyers had their closing costs covered on top of the lower price.
What happened after they moved in?
They painted and replaced the floors, and it changed the whole place. I stopped by earlier this year and it's night and day.
What if everything in your budget has something wrong with it?
Honestly, that's usually where the opportunity is. The question is what you want: a turnkey house where you don't lift a finger, or one you can personalize and build some sweat equity into.
There's no right or wrong answer. It depends on your priorities.
If you're starting where they did, get First Look, my weekly list of hand-picked San Diego listings, including off-market and early access.
Who is Jared Harman?
Jared Harman is a real estate agent and REALTOR® in San Diego, California, licensed under DRE 02193879 with MatchPoint at eXp Realty of California, Inc. He grew up in Chula Vista and is based in North Park. He represents both buyers and sellers, roughly half each.