Santa Cruz Real Estate News & Information - Santa Cruz Real Estate

Neighborhood Spotlight: Westlake

One of the city’s most well-known neighborhoods, Westlake is found in the northwestern corner of Santa Cruz. This area is recognized for its luxury properties, its safe and quiet streets, and its amenities—all of which make Westlake one of the most desirable places to settle down in this city.

Westlake, which centers on Westlake Park and pond, comprises an area of just under 600 acres, or 4 miles in total distance. For those searching for a neighborhood to raise a family or retire in, all while being within a close distance to the downtown district, Westlake may just be what you’re looking for.

Family-Oriented Community

A five-minute drive to downtown Santa Cruz—or a ten-minute bike ride!—Westlake is bounded roughly by Coolidge Drive…

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Neighborhood Spotlight: Mission Hill

One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city of Santa Cruz, Mission Hill, also known as the Mission Hill Historic District, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Centrally-located and recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, mixture of residential and commercial areas, and notable architecture, Mission Hill is a desirable place to live for a diverse selection of homebuyers.

Mission Hill is centered on Mission Street, and defined roughly by the following boundaries: the intersection of the train tracks and the highway in the north, River Street around to Pacific Avenue in the east, Church Street across to Chestnut Street in the south, and then up past Mission Street to Storey Street. For those seeking an upbeat and…

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Mid-Year Santa Cruz Real Estate Market Update

All of a sudden, it seems as though the first half of 2024 has passed us by. During this time, many buyers have purchased property in and around the city, and have been enjoying the summer fun and sunny skies. However, for those considering buying or selling a home in Santa Cruz, CA, you may want to know how the real estate market is faring this year.

When is the best time to buy? When is the best time to sell? What will the market look like in the future? These are questions that many people are asking. While there is some level of speculation based off of current market statistics (and getting in touch with an expert Santa Cruz area realtor can help provide interested buyers/sellers with a more accurate analysis!), this summary might help…

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Santa Cruz Real Estate Market Update - February 2023

For the past few years, the real estate market in the Santa Cruz metro area has seen some changes—most significantly that housing prices continue to rise, despite a number of external factors (i.e. a pandemic, a rising cost of living) that would typically cause average prices to stagnate or even fall. Of course, this is true of most areas across the state, but it can be a bit disheartening, particularly for first-time homebuyers.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in and around Santa Cruz, the following information may help you better understand the market before you make your decision.

What’s The Santa Cruz Real Estate Market Like?

Comparing data from both the state of California and the metro area of Santa Cruz, there are a…

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Benefits Of Living Outside Of Downtown Santa Cruz

The dynamic, downtown area of Santa Cruz is recognized for its upbeat vibe and its numerous amenities, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s easy for those who live downtown to walk, bike, or drive around the city, visiting attractions such as museums, beaches, and even the university campus—for all the students in the area. 

However, rising housing prices and home exclusivity have resulted in prospective buyers looking for properties outside of the Santa Cruz downtown—and often Santa Cruz entirely. Santa Cruz County as a whole is quite luxurious, however the communities found outside of the heart of the city have a lot to offer, and are worth considering when starting your home search.

Safe, Tranquil Neighborhoods

Not…

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Top Home Features & Questions To Ask Your Agent Before Buying A Home

Starting your search for your next home can be difficult, and getting your dream property can be even harder. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or second, third, fourth, or fifth, one of the best ways you can ensure that your new home is perfect for you is by using a local, knowledgeable agent.

However, there are a few things that you will probably want to look out for when you are starting to look at homes. The Santa Cruz area has, over the years, become very popular; top-rated schools, picturesque neighborhoods, and incredible natural beauty all intersect in this city. For buyers just starting out on their journey, here are a few of the things to look out for when browsing homes in Santa Cruz.

Interior Upgrades

Whether you’re interested…

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Great Santa Cruz Neighborhoods Located Close To Schools

With rental prices that just overtook San Francisco, it’s clear that Santa Cruz is an incredibly desirable place to settle down—especially for families. Home to the University of California Santa Cruz campus, this city is known particularly for its educational institutions, with highly-rated schools at all grade levels. 

For those on the fence about which neighborhoods are best for the kids, here are just a few of the excellent choices available for interested families. 

The Circles

Recognizable for its circular, residential streets that center on Garfield Park Christian Church (now slated for redevelopment), The Circles is a quaint neighborhood located south of Mission Street, close to Neary Lagoon Park. 

There are two convenience…

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Buying or Renting? Why Now Is The Time To Buy In Santa Cruz

When it comes to the real estate market in Santa Cruz, this beautiful coastal city continues to be one that’s highly-desirable. Home to scenic views, unique boutiques, excellent restaurants, and the University of California Santa Cruz campus, there’s a multitude of reasons why many are choosing to make the move here. 

But is it better to buy a home or to rent? What’s the market like overall? We outline everything you need to know below, in order for you to make an informed decision.

Current Market Statistics

If you’re considering moving to the Santa Cruz area, one of the first things you’ll want to know is the overall performance of the real estate market. In general, Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz County is an appealing area for a number of…

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New Developments Around Santa Cruz County

While downtown Santa Cruz is known for its established neighborhoods and historic properties, there are a number of exciting new developments popping up around the city and the county. For those in the market for a new construction condo or detached home, there are a few developments to keep an eye on. 

Amid rising housing costs and increasing requirements for housing goals (as dictated by the state of California), the county has had to make some changes and revise their plan of action. As a result, there are a number of new plans for Santa Cruz County’s undeveloped areas—specifically the communities of Aptos, Soquel, Live Oak, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, and more. 

These developments are highly-anticipated and/or reaching the final…

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A Guide to Scotts Valley Neighborhoods

The city of Scotts Valley, California is known for its excellent location; the perfect option for commuting professionals (either south to Santa Cruz or north to Silicon Valley) and families. Scotts Valley neighborhoods tend to preserve the beautiful, natural features of the area, and as a result offer homebuyers a slice of the forest lifestyle. 

There are a number of Scotts Valley communities to choose from—but which one is best for you? We outline five of Scotts Valley’s most exclusive neighborhoods below.

Granite Creek Estates

Looking for luxury? Your search ends here. Granite Creek Estates are found at the end of Granite Creek Road, east of Scotts Valley Drive. This quiet neighborhood is home to sprawling houses on the area’s hillside,…

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