[blueerica]

OK, limited board availability has prevented me from actually reading all of the posts, aside from the first few, and scanning a few others.

I think it's smart that you're paying off your outside debt first. But, I'd also pay attention to the housing market itself, since it could be as important an indicator as anything else. I'm no expert, and I'm sure someone else said something about it before.

Regarding the video gaming industry, I know EA is out on in LA's westside (might be Marina Del Rey, though I'm not 100% sure on the actual city boundaries any more)... and there are a few others, like the aforementioned Blizzard. I know that the guy who owns Activision, and a number of other now-wealthy game developers used to frequent the dental office I used to work at.

I also noted what LSPE said about other game developer opportunities, and they abound in California. There are numerous jobs that would fit him in areas that are a little outside the box. Check some out!

As for areas to look at, it's not particularly one or the other, though I'm pretty sure it's best to avoid the Inland Empire... though everything else will probably cost more. I'd check on that in 4-5 years to see how the market holds up to what people think are 'good' and 'not-so good'. Plus, some former 'nsg' places have become better... I'll cite Corona as an example... and it's actually close to the park... even if the majority of the eats in the area are chains. It's also getting more expensive to live there, as the eastward expansion seems to have swallowed the town up. I know a friend's neighbor has had an impossible time selling her home, and has had to lower her price several times over. I don't know if it finally sold - but if it did, I'm sure she didn't turn a profit, so it might have been a good bargain for a buyer.

Anyhow, that's my early morning rambling, and I realize I'm going to be late for work. I'll try to catch up on this later... and good luck!