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        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/2024-01/</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-cruz-day-trip-big-basin-redwoods-state-park.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-day-trip-big-basin-redwoods-state-park.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz Day Trip: Big Basin Redwoods State Park</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


20 minutes north of the community of Boulder Creek lies Big Basin Redwoods State Park: a gem of Santa Cruz County. This gorgeous park is a favorite of nearby residents and out-of-county visitors for its intricate trail network that weaves through its expansive, old-growth forest.



Discover why a day trip to Big Basin Redwoods State Park makes for the perfect excursion for passionate hikers and nature-lovers living in Santa Cruz.


Big Basin Redwoods State Park: An Overview


21600 Big Basin Highway, Boulder Creek



Situated within the mountains, Big Basin Redwoods State Park first opened in 1902, making it the oldest state park in California. Open daily, the park spans about 18,000 acres in size, emerging as a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. From Santa Cruz, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is about a 50-minute drive north, traffic permitting. Rancho del Oso, located at 3600 CA-1 in Davenport, is about 20 to 30 minutes from Santa Cruz.



Big Basin Redwoods State Park has been a favorite of Santa Cruz County residents and tourists alike for over a hundred and twenty years. In 2020, however, the park was hit with an unprecedented lightning storm that set fire to almost the entirety of the park. 



While most of the forest remained intact, some of the trails are not currently open to the public, so as to aid the regrowth process. As well, the park’s historic buildings were unfortunately lost to the fire, thus some parts of the park are under construction. Despite this, the park is dedicated to rebuilding its infrastructure and helping the parts that were lost recover.



It is not required to reserve parking, but it is recommended because of the park’s popularity. It’s $8 to reserve vehicle parking in advance, or $10 for general parking at the door. However, those without a car (arriving via public transportation, bicycle, etc.) do not have to pay a reservation fee.


Park Amenities &amp; Facilities 


The park has a few small facilities. Its Visitor Centre, on North Escape Road, features exhibits, a small store, a gift shop, parking spaces, and washrooms. As an important note, visitors are asked to bring their own water, as there is none available in the park. The Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center in Davenport, located near the coast, also has its own washroom and parking facilities, as well as its own hiking trails. 



Big Basin Redwoods State Park also offers guided walking tours at 11:00 AM every Saturday, which are one hour in length. Additionally, the park has bicycle and equestrian areas for interested guests—but neither are allowed on the hiking/walking trails—and camping at Rancho Del Oso.



While this is subject to change, these are just some of the most popular trails that are currently open:






Redwood Loop Trail (the most well-known and considered a must-see)






Dool Trail






Skyline to the Sea Trail (limited acess)






Meteor Trail






Gazos Creek Road (limited access)






Chalks Road






Johansen Road







Visitors are encouraged to check back on the official website for updates and trail maps. 


 





Outdoor Recreation and Wildlife


Growing up to 300 feet, the redwood trees are most definitely one of the major attractions of the park. Alongside its old-growth forests, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, from birds of prey to large mammals, such as deer. 



Some of the notable animals spotted in the park include red-tailed hawks, mule deer, great-horned owls, gray foxes, shrews, and more. 


Frequently Asked Questions


Q: Can I take my dog to the park?


A: Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.



Q: Is there accessible parking available?


A: Yes. Accessible parking spots are located at the welcome center and at the Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center in the south end.


Q: Do I need to make a reservation to visit the Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center?


A: No reservations are required for this part of the park. It is also free to visit, so no fee



Q: Is there cell phone service in Big Basin?A: No, there is no cell service in the park, including the Visitor Centre.



Q: Can I feed the animals in Big Basin Redwoods State Park?


A: This park is home to many endangered species. Big Basin Redwoods State Park prohibits the feeding of any wildlife in the park, for the animals’ safety. 


 


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 for additional area information. Find your Santa Cruz County dream home today.



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/hiring-an-interior-designer-top-questions-answered.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/hiring-an-interior-designer-top-questions-answered.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Hiring An Interior Designer: Top Questions Answered</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



When it comes to updating your space, many homeowners can agree that renovations and interior decorating can be a daunting (and often arduous) task. In fact, this is one of the main reasons that one might decide to put it off for as long as they can—alongside budget constraints, of course—and why first-time homeowners tend to want to find a home that is move-in ready. 



However, for those who are would like to take the first steps of the interior design journey, there are two main options: the DIY route, or the professional route. While a good number of homeowners tackle the project themselves, hiring an interior designer may just be the better choice for you.


What exactly does an interior designer do, and are they different from an interior decorator?



At first glance, these two professions are synonymous, but they are in fact different An interior decorator works with the existing space to improve the design, which extends to wall colors, furniture, artwork, and other cosmetic improvements.



An interior designer also specializes in making a space functional and stylish—the distinction being that they work with the architecture of the space. This means they handle floor plans, safety and building codes, organizing renovations and supervising construction, and more, on top of designing the space for you,



These careers require differing credentials and certifications. In the state of California, an interior designer does not need to be NCIDQ certified, and instead must have certification from CCIDC (California Council For Interior Design Certification), which requires formal schooling to qualify. An interior decorator does not need these qualifications.


Is an interior designer more expensive than if I did it myself?


There is no definite answer for this It all comes down to what you’re capable of doing. If you have the experience (perhaps you’ve done this before), then you might save yourself some money in comparison to hiring a professional. 



Although homeowners may scoff at the high fees for interior designers, you also have the peace of mind knowing that the job will be done right. Doing it on your own means additional time and money put into organization, supervision, planning, and more. For many, this can translate to unwanted stress, so the fees may be the simpler solution.



Interior designers can be paid differently depending on the person hired or project type. This includes flat rates, paid by the hour, and paid by square footage.


 





How do I find the interior designer that’s right for me?


It really just comes down to research—and lots of it Take the time to find your niche. Some interior designers specialize in condos, while others do a variety of property types and services, not limited to single-family homes, home staging, hotels, commercial spaces, and more. 



Interior designers should have a portfolio available with examples of their past work. While reading reviews is definitely helpful and an important step, seeing what an interior designer or interior design company has done for other clients is priceless in your quest to find the perfect match. This helps you select the best person to fit with your own personal style.



You can contact a few interior designers that you’re interested in. From there, you may discuss the project through email or through a meeting, where they will be able to answer some of your questions and may be able to provide you with a rough estimate. 


What's the process of working with an interior designer like?


If you’ve settled on an interior designer, you’ll want to outline exactly what you’re looking for. This initial consultation is where you can go over your wants and needs, and they will be able to tell you what’s possible and what isn’t. After this, they’ll return to you with some plans, which will be further refined until they meet your approval. They will likely need some information from you regarding your property, as well, so be prepared to provide this.



If this is a team, then you may be working with several different people, each of whom will tackle a specific area or task. After you have agreed upon the work that will be done (including either an estimate or a firm rate), then the work will begin. 



Set your expectations accordingly. Working with an interior designer often requires meetings and check-ins, the reviewing of samples, project updates, and more. This is not as hands-off as many would think Each interior designer has their own methodology, but these steps (of which there are many) are set in place to ensure that you, the client, are getting exactly what you want.



Dreaming of moving to the Santa Cruz area? Contact Lauren Spencer to get started. The perfect home is just one click away

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-surf-history.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-surf-history.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz Surf History</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Santa Cruz, California didn’t get its nickname, “The Surf City”, for no reason. Originally incorporated in the year 1866, the area has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years. Part of that history, of course, includes the sport of surfing—now a popular pastime for both locals and tourists alike. 


 


Santa Cruz has cultivated its surf culture for over a hundred years, starting out, perhaps, in a surprising way. Discover how Santa Cruz became The Surf City below.


Santa Cruz: A History, In Brief


Located on the north end of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a beautiful city recognized for its vibrant culture and luxury (sometimes oceanfront) properties. 


 


With a population of around 63,000, the Santa Cruz area was originally home to the Ohlone, who lived as far north as the Bay area, and as far south as Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. They lived in different groups, speaking a variety of (similar) languages. This is often glossed over by historians, who prefer to begin the area’s history with the arrival of European colonizers. 


 


In 1769, the Spanish explorers landed in the region, and expanded their settlements over a period of many years. Additional information about Santa Cruz’s history can be found here.


The Three Hawaiian Princes


Santa Cruz’s exceptional location on the Pacific Ocean, with its towering cliffs and sandy beaches, have helped make this the perfect place to catch some gnarly waves. How long have surfers been in the area? Longer than you think


 


In the 1880s, three members of the Hawaiian royal family—David Kawānanakoa, Edward Abnel Keliʻiahonu, and Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole—were sent away to further their academic studies. The three were brothers through adoption and they attended a school located in San Mateo. Together they enjoyed traveling south to surf in the city of Santa Cruz.


 


According to the legends, they would take surfboards made out of solid redwood (carved from area trees) out on the water. Soon enough, Santa Cruz locals took interest. Although there are conflicting dates for this, this was recorded to have happened in the summer of the year 1885. 


 


Following the death of Edward Abnel Keliʻiahonui, the two brothers would later go abroad to study in England. Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole would become a delegate to the Congress, while David Kawānanakoa would have his own political career. There is now a plaque dedicated to the three of them at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.


Santa Cruz Surfing Today


The influence of the Hawaiian brothers was great, and a strong surf culture was starting to build in Santa Cruz. However, historians agree that surfing in the area was still in its infancy until the Santa Cruz Surfing Club was formed in 1936.


 


From there, interest grew exponentially, exploding again in the 1950s. Surfing the Santa Cruz waves was a little bit off-putting because of the cold winds and colder water temperatures, especially during the winter months. Jack O'Neill—a resident of San Francisco at the time, but he would later move to Santa Cruz—founded a surf gear and wetsuit company that would cause the second boom in the area. 



Presently, there are a number of surf shops and spots around Santa Cruz, from the beginner-friendly Cowell Beach to the world-renowned Steamer’s Lane. More information about the best spots for different levels can be found here.



 


Explore the sights and sounds of Santa Cruz, CA, and find home, condo, or townhome you've been dreaming of. Start your home search with us, or contact Lauren Spencer today. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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