Santa Cruz Real Estate News & Information

Dreaming of lazy days spent on the beach with a gentle salty-air breeze?

A Santa Cruz oceanfront home is the answer. With miles of coastline, there is a Santa Cruz oceanfront property for just about everyone.

Santa Cruz oceanfront properties offer the ultimate beachside oasis and range in sizes from mid-range bungalows to sprawling luxury estates.

Calling Santa Cruz home, you'll enjoy many benefits including: year-round warm weather, a laid-back lifestyle, and a less densely populated area than other popular waterfront communities along northern California's rugged coast.

Check Out The Latest Waterfront Listings in Santa Cruz!

Here's what you need to know to start your oceanfront home search:

• Will this be your primary or a secondary residence?
• Do you plan on renting out the property when you are not using it?
• Advantages to owning oceanfront property
• Risks to owning oceanfront property
• How to protect your investment

Will this be your primary or secondary residence?

If this will be your primary residence you will want to consider proximity to the amenities you will need on a regular basis.

As a secondary residence you may want to be closer to popular beach access points. You will also need to take into consideration how you will furnish the property.

Do you plan on renting out the property when you are not using it?

Yes - you'll want to look into local bylaws to make sure you are able to do this. Some areas may require you to obtain a permit to rent out your property. You may also want to consider locations closer to the beach as many vacationers are willing to pay a premium for oceanfront accommodations. Santa Cruz has been increasingly strict when it comes to short-term rentals.

Another factor to consider is parking. Is it important for you to have off street parking? If you're renting out the property when you're not using it having off street parking available is a big plus!

If you're not going to rent out the property when you are not using it, you will need to let your insurance provider know to ensure you're still covered.

Advantages to owning a Santa Cruz oceanfront home

• High market value - oceanfront properties tend to retain their value and are least vulnerable to fluctuations in property value
• Great rental opportunities - many tourists are willing to pay a premium to be on the beach
• Low cost getaways - rental income during peak season can potentially cover annual expenses
• Permanent views - you won't have to worry about your view being obstructed by a future development
• Year-round warm weather and a more laid back lifestyle.

Risks of owning Santa Cruz oceanfront property

Like owning any property, oceanfront property ownership presents its own unique set of risks. Aside from an expensive initial cost, you will need to be aware of these factors:

• Extra maintenance due to natural environment
• Property damage due to storms and normal erosion, as well as damage to flooring from sand, mold and mildew resulting from humidity and moisture
• A very busy peak season may reduce your enjoyment of the property
• Bugs - look for properties with screens so enjoying the ocean breeze isn't interrupted by insects
• Not all beach locations are equal - find the best one to suit your needs and budget
• Partying guests - potential damage to property and rifts between neighboring properties (only if you're planning to rent your property out)

How to protect your investment

If you are ready to start the process, you will need to know how to best protect your oceanfront property so you can enjoy it for the years to come.

• Get the right insurance. Expect to pay a premium for flood insurance; it may not be necessary but not having it could result in a loss of your investment property in the event of a major storm.
• Be prepared for extra maintenance. High winds, heavy rainfall, heat and humidity can lead to the need for more frequent repairs.
• For a rental property, a property manager can help prevent smaller issues and repairs from escalating to major issues.
• Learn about the unique features your property has, and how to use and maintain them. Oceanfront properties may have bulkheads and docks. A well built and maintained bulkhead can help protect your property from normal erosion and storm damage. Docks may have specific limitations for use and may be maintained by a homeowner's association.

If you're new to the area take some time to talk with the residents. They can provide valuable insight into seasonal changes and what you can expect in the neighborhood for day to day life.

Is your family ready to make the move to a Santa Cruz oceanfront home? Contact Lauren Spencer Online or call 1.800.226.4717 today to get started with your home search!