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        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/2020-08/</link>
        <description>Lifestyle, community, day trips, restaurants, real estate, home improvements, and more. Discover what makes Santa Cruz County such a great place to live. Presented by My Santa Cruz Real Estate.</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruzs-best-takeout-options-for-2020.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruzs-best-takeout-options-for-2020.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz’s Best Takeout Options for 2020</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Life may be slowly returning to normal, but the current public health crisis has justly left many wary of eating out. A number of Santa Cruz's top and most established culinary institutions showed plenty of tenacity and ingenuity in order to remain open - shifting to a takeout style menu and enacting required public health requirements.


But, even if there weren't a global pandemic out there, what's better than takeout on the beach?


That being said, take a look at our picks for the top takeout options currently available in the city of Santa Cruz. Feel free to let us know if we missed any of your favorites in the comments below.


Lillian's Italian Kitchen


1148 Soquel Avenue - Santa Cruz, CA www.lilliansitaliankitchen.com/


At Lillian's Italian Kitchen, it's a family affair. The restaurant features authentic, home-style Italian comfort food with all the classic dishes you'd expect, made with love. The place is run by long-time Santa Cruz residents Joe and Charlotte Moreno and their two sons.


Named for Grandma Lilly, the popular neighborhood hang out is styled as an extension of the family kitchen.


You have to try: Black Truffle Gnocchi


Moziac


110 Church - Santa Cruz, CA www.mozaicsantacruz.com


Moziac features arguably the best mediterranean and middle eastern food in the city. Open since 2015, the variety and eclectic menu is where the restaurant gets its name.


The menu has a big-time focus on super fresh ingredients and sustainable seafood. The delcious menu includes items from the gourmet cuisines of Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Italy and Spain.


You have to try: The Middle Eastern Combo Platter


Seabright Deli


415 Seabright Avenue - Santa Cruz, CA www.seabrightdeli.com


The Seabright Deli has build a stellar reputation for its delectable artisan sandwiches that are incredibly creative and unique. Hungry visitors can also enjoy delicious housemade soups and a range of local craft brews.


Aside from the food, Seabright is well known for incredible customer service. The team here are dedicated to going above and beyond to give you a great meal.


Takeout is currently available through their pick up window. Delivery is also available through the Door Dash app.


You have to try: The Giant Dipper


Mission St. BBQ


1618 Mission Street - Santa Cruz, CA www.missionstbbq.com


Providing &quot;the best darn California BBQ experience&quot;, the team at Mission St BBQ put a lot of love into the food they create. Family-owned, their delectable meats are all smoked daily and feature absolutely incredible flavor you won't experience anywhere else.


You can now order ahead online for curbside pick up or delivery right from their website. For a great value, take a look at their family packs - a selection of meats and all the sides - plenty for 2 - 4 people.


You have to try: Pulled Pork Sandwich


Real Thai Kitchen


1632 Seabright Avenue - Santa Cruz, CA http://www.realthaisantacruz.com


The Real Thai Kitchen is a cozy neighborhood spot that has garnered a great reputation for fresh and authentic southeast Asian food. In addition to the standard Thai fare you may be used to, Real Thai offers a few unique menu items for those looking for something a little different.


The menu features many vegetarian options as well, with the added benefit of being able to make nearly all menu items vegetarian upon request.


Take out is available, as if delivery through either Door Dash or Uber Eats.


You have to try: Yellow Curry


If you're interested in learning more about the homes found in Santa Cruz, be sure to contact Lauren Spencer online or call 1.800.226.4717 to learn more about the area She’s your local real estate expert and is always happy to help you with all your questions.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2020 08:47:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-condo-buyers-guide-2020.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-condo-buyers-guide-2020.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz Condo Buyer’s Guide 2020</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Condos are a great option anywhere - not least of all in Santa Cruz.


Whether you are a first-time home buyer, a second vacation home buyer or looking for a sound investment, condos have a lot going for them. Santa Cruz’s real estate is competitive, but the condo market is especially swift.


The sunny California coast and its appealing, laid-back lifestyle makes it an especially attractive locale. Condos offer an accessible way to enter the market, but the low-maintenance lifestyle they offer also make them especially perfect for part-time living, as well as short and long term rentals.


The process of purchasing a condo certainly has a lot in common with that of a single-family home, but there are certain differences that can make buying a condo more complex.


To help you get started, we’ve put together this Santa Cruz condo buyer’s guide for 2020.


Search All Available Condos in Santa Cruz


Be Ready to Move Fast


As we mentioned, the real estate market is competitive in Santa Cruz, but when it comes to condos it's especially swift.


As a result, it pays to be ready to move when making an offer. This means having your pre-approval in place for financing with all requirements satisfied.


When it comes to multi-offer situations, nothing is more appealing for sellers than having proven funds at the ready. Most of us won’t have the full purchase funds in cash at the ready, so a pre-approval is the next best.


Condo Financing is Different


You now know you should have financing in place before starting your search, but how does condo financing differ from single-family homes?


To start, there’s a lot more for lenders to factor in when calculating how much mortgage you can manage. In addition to the mortgage itself, there are also condo owners or HOA fees. Similar to HOA fees you might see in neighborhoods throughout the city, condo fees tend to be much higher.


This is understandable, as they tend to cover things like water, garbage disposal in addition to other recreational amenities.


In addition to the amenities, lenders may take the financial health of the condo organization itself and the composition of owners/renters when deciding if you qualify for certain types of mortgages.


Do Your Homework Already


You’ve likely already been gifted this sage, if cliched, bit of advice.


It’s never been more true when considering a condo though. As we’ve already pointed out, condos offer a lot more for your consideration - from building composition and on-site amenities to bylaws and regulations.


To start, do you even want to live in a condo? It may seem like an obvious question, but its also an important one. The low-maintenance lifestyle may seem like heaven to some, but hell to owners yearning for more space or a yard.


As with any real estate, the purchase of a condo is a big deal - and you’ll be spending a good amount of money on property you don’t wholly own. While you likely can’t pick your neighbors, you can look into the property management company running the property.


Where Do You Want to Live?


The community of Santa Cruz is a popular choice, of course, but there are also numerous communities just outside the well-known seaside city. Aptos, Capitola or La Selva Beach or any of these other nearby communities are also definitely worthy of consideration.


What do you plan to use the property for? Do you plan to live in the space yourself for the foreseeable future, or are you planning to sell in five years, so you can move up? Or, is this simply an investment? In which case, you need to be thinking about the wants and needs of potential renters.


Also worth considering is what your condo owner’s fees are actually paying for and do they make sense for you or your potential tenants. After all a pool may only be valuable if it's something you’ll actually use, but it could be a nice feature to attract vacationers.


Location within the city of Santa Cruz and the surrounding communities is also incredibly important. If its an vacation rental investment you’re after, a location close to the beach or top area amenities is a definite plus.


What Are You Waiting For?


Start your search right here, right now


If you're interested in learning more about the available condos found in Santa Cruz, be sure to contact Lauren Spencer online or call 1.800.226.4717 to learn more about the area She’s your local real estate expert and is always happy to help you with all your questions.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2020 08:33:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/listing-spotlight-219-farley-dr-in-aptos-ca.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/listing-spotlight-219-farley-dr-in-aptos-ca.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Listing Spotlight: 219 Farley Dr in Aptos, CA</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



This Rio Del Mar charmer is overflowing with classic charm and brimming with an irresistible Central California character.


It’s got everything you’d want in a compact beach house.


It’s location and intelligent interior layout effortlessly marry interior and exterior spaces, creating a welcoming and homely environment that would make it a fantastic vacation home or investment rental property.


Explore 219 Farley Drive with a 3D Tour





Classic Rio Del Mar Curb Appeal


Originally constructed in 1961, 219 Farley Drive has been thoughtfully renovated and updated to modern tastes, while maintaining its original charm. Inside, interested home buyers will be greeted by immaculate oak flooring, crown molding and recessed lighting. A wide-open layout and built-in shelving help to make the most of the space.


The result is a single-level, ranch home that feels like so much more. At its heart is a delightfully contemporary gourmet kitchen, featuring state-of-the-art Bosch appliances, beautiful maple cabinets and granite countertops.


In Santa Cruz as in any area of coastal California, a home simply has to have a great outdoor space. It’s essentially a requirement.


Trust us - you’ll be spending a good amount of your time outdoors, and with this home it’ll be an absolute pleasure. 219 Farley features a wonderful wrap-around patio, paved with flagstone with plenty of room to entertain. There's even a hot tub. For those especially sunny days, there’s a large shaded gazebo but the space boasts plenty of sun everywhere else.



View the Full Rio Del Mar Real Estate Listing






 


Rio Del Mar: The Heart of Aptos, CA


219 Farley Drive enjoys a fantastic central position in Rio Del Mar, mere steps from the beach. Rio Del Mar is a gorgeous neighborhood that stretches from Aptos Village to the waterfront, streets lined with beautiful Cypress Trees.


Rio Del Mar’s location within the charming small community of Aptos, California has made it an exceedingly popular choice for second home owners and vacationers alike. The charming character homes found here are iconic, featuring the classic architectural styles of the 40s, 50s and 60s.


219 Farley is also right across from the popular Seascape Golf Club.


Watch Our Exclusive Video Tour





 


If you'd like to view 219 Farley Drive or learn more about Aptos or Rio Del Mar, please contact Lauren Spencer online or call 1.800.226.4717
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2020 08:47:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruzs-most-instagrammable-spots.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruzs-most-instagrammable-spots.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz’s Most Instagrammable Spots</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



It’s undeniable that Santa Cruz is one of the most gorgeous cities in the state, with its spectacular coastal location and unbeatable scenery.


No matter where you go in this city, you’re bound to find picture-worthy spots that you’ll want to share with all your followers on social media.


So, without further ado, here are Santa Cruz’s most instagrammable spots:


Natural Bridges State Beach


Natural Bridges State Beach is one of the most instagrammable locations in Santa Cruz for its outstanding landscape that defines the area.


Just off the coast, there’s a natural rock formation that looks like a bridge or an archway in the water. This spot is absolutely breathtaking and is sure to impress all your followers on Instagram.


You can visit Natural Bridges State Beach at any time of the day, but for the most show-stopping picture, go during the evening.


At golden hour, the ocean surrounding the little island glistens, creating the ideal lighting to capture a picture of this spot.


If you stay a little bit longer, you can watch the sunset fill the sky with orange and red hues.


This state beach will never disappoint you.


Wilder Ranch State Park


Just up the road from Natural Bridges State Beach is Wilder Ranch State Park where you can capture some impressive Instagram pictures.


This massive park gives visitors tons of opportunities to take amazing photos of the natural cliffs, Monterey Bay, and the scenic landscaping.


Regardless of what time of day you visit this park, the ocean water will be glistening, making it the perfect spot for a picture.


Since Wilder Ranch is located just outside of Santa Cruz’s downtown core, there are rarely any crowds of people around, which means you can enjoy the amazing location in peace.


West Cliff Drive


West Cliff Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the whole of the city, stretching from Natural Bridges State Beach all the way to downtown. It winds around the coastline, giving drivers impeccable views of the ocean. You can also enjoy viewing some of the city’s most extravagant homes.


If you drive down this road, make sure to stop along the way to soak up the view. You can find tons of great viewpoints and pocket beaches where you can see Santa Cruz’s cliffs for miles on end.


You can snap a picture of the crashing water and of the seagulls and pelicans that frequent the area.


West Cliff Drive will also take you to the Santa Cruz Lighthouse and Surfing Museum where you can enjoy the beauty of the lighthouse at one of the furthest points of the city.


Come to this area at sunset to take in the stunning colors that fill the sky.


The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park


To capture terrific pictures of ancient redwoods and winding pathways, visit the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.


Located in Aptos, this huge park has endless photo opportunities with its soaring redwood forests and unbeatable views that overlook the land.


You can find hiking trails, lazy creeks, and wooden bridges along the way that make for fantastic instagram posts. At the highest points of the park, you can catch views over the tops of the trees all the way to the water.


While taking impressive photos of the natural beauty, you can enjoy a nice hike or bike ride through the forest. You’ll likely find wildlife along the way, like squirrels and native birds.


Capitola Village


Located a short, 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz, Capitola Village is sure to give you unique and colorful pictures of the area.


With rows of pastel colored shops near the water, this village is full of charm and allure that is bound to make a great Instagram post.


In addition to all the intriguing colors and architecture, Capitola Village has remarkable beaches and calm waters that you can snap pictures of.


With so much to do in Capitola Village, you can make a day out of your Instagram photoshoot by shopping and dining out at one of their top-rated restaurants.


Stay until the evening when you can watch some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see.


Want to learn more about Santa Cruz and the real estate in this area? Contact Lauren Spencer who is always happy to help
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2020 08:09:00 -0700</pubDate>
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