Moved in 2000 to a very good location in Az. Gosar is our Rep. There is a church on every corner. Properties are cheap and Ca folks buy them up quick. In 20 years we retired ourselves with a great bankroll buying and selling properties. :)
Nope, only had to live camping for six months and then things started rolling in for us... The lack of over-regulation treated us very well... :)
Glad you escaped, before the mad rush!
And, that you found your happy place, in AZ.
Continued blessings, to you!
Great story, well done!