Welcome to the Old Escondido Historic District! Congratulations - not only have you purchased a home in a great neighborhood but you have invested in a share of Escondido’s rich historical heritage. Your home, whether it was built in the late 1880s or in the last half of the 20th Century – or somewhere in between - has the unique distinction of being located in North San Diego County’s only Historic District.
Because of this special status, changes to the exterior of your new home need to be approved by the City of Escondido’s Planning Department. This means that you will need to apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness in order to make certain that paint colors or other alterations that affect the look of your home will protect its value and historical integrity. Design guidelines can be accessed online to determine whether or not your ideas are in keeping with Historic District requirements.
And, if your home is at least 50 years old, there is a good chance that, if it isn’t already, it could be placed on the Mills Act, which can significantly reduce your property taxes. In addition to the privilege of owning a piece of history, you will find that there are other benefits to living in Old Escondido.
This is a Neighborhood in the truest sense of the word. We have a barbecue every summer, get-together meetings every 3 months, and we open several of our distinctive homes to the public every year on Mothers Day. We also participate in the annual Christmas Parade and Grape Day celebrations. If you would like to get involved, odds are that we can find the perfect spot for you and your talents!
So, again, we welcome you to the neighborhood and hope that you find the experience of living in Old Escondido rewarding and pleasurable. If you have any questions about the Mills Act, our activities, meetings, or anything else about the Old Escondido Historic District, please call me at 760-735-8072. I look forward to meeting you soon!
