T.H.,
It is true that whether an owner owns the land the property sits on or not makes a sizable difference on the desirability and purchase price of a house in San Diego. However, some condominiums are more valuable than detached homes in a specific area (and vice versa). I hate to answer a question with a question, but what is the source of the listing information that lists some homes as condominims and others as fee simple in the same community? Are you working with a local agent? If not, a buyer's agent is highly recommended. They can readily answer questions about specific properiteis that you are interested in. Generally, a buyer's agent does not cost you since commissions are usually paid by the sellers. You should find an agent that you can trust to assist you in the home buying process.

T.H.
I am with Chicago Title. If you can call me 619.507.5688 or e-mail me with the particular property, I can check the legal description for you for free.

Fee simple or leashold are two types of ownership rights, the difference is one is for eternity and one for a specific period after which it reverts to another party. A condominium can be of either type of ownership. It sounds like from your post that the complex has both single family residences and condos as part of the HOA. In the case of the condo in fee simple your legal description would define 1/320 ownership of the property with rights to a specifc unit. That still gives you an ownership interest in the land. Your realtor or the title company should be able to give you further clarification.