Get to know this quintessential California beach town!
Santa Cruz is located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay and has 29 miles of coastline and includes numerous state parks and beaches. It encompasses a total area of 607 square miles, of which 445 square miles is land and 162 square miles is water.
Many buyers looking for Santa Cruz CA homes for sale are drawn to its pristine beaches, lush redwood forests, and rich farmland. The area has an ideal Mediterranean climate with low humidity and sunshine 300 days a year.
Santa Cruz County includes the incorporated cities of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville. Some of the most popular communities include Aptos, Bonny Doon, Brookdale, Corralitos, Felton, Larkin Valley, La Selva Beach, Los Gatos Mountains, Rio del Mar, Scotts Valley, Seacliff, and Soquel.
Find your dream home in Santa Cruz CA!
Home to more than 250,000 residents, the county’s strong local economy is anchored by technology, agriculture, and tourism. Santa Cruz CA is also known for its captivating blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and engaging activities such as kayaking, sailing, hiking, surfing, and golf.
You’ll also find an array of art galleries, museum, festivals, and outdoor performances. There are premier cultural events such as Santa Cruz Shakespeare, Capitola Twilight Concerts, the Santa Cruz Film Festival, Scotts Valley Art and Wine, and Open Studios.
Real estate in Santa Cruz CA
The real estate market in Santa Cruz is diverse and includes single-family homes, waterfront houses on pristine beaches, condos, townhomes, apartment buildings, commercial development properties, golf properties, and land for sale.
The homes in this area offer the ultimate comfort and lifestyle with prices that are absolutely to die for. Living here, you’ll be constantly surrounded by beautiful nature and great surf. It’s simply a wonderful place to call home.
End of Year Market Report for Santa Cruz CA
Last March, the median price of single-family homes in Santa Cruz County hit a record of $935,100. Since then, the median price has stayed above the $900,000 mark.
There was also an increase in the inventory of homes for sale. During the first week of November, there were 544 listings. This is 9% more than the available number of homes for sale last year.
As for the number of sold homes, it was the same as about last year. However, with more homes on the market, the unsold inventory index — listings divided by sales — was 3.1 months, up from 2.8 months a year ago.
According to MLSListings, the median days on the market to sell a home was 35 days in October, up from 20 days in last 2017.
The median price for condos in Santa Cruz County was $565,000 — down from the January record of $637,500 — on 41 sales. There were 138 listings, a 68 percent increase from a year ago, and the unsold inventory index rose to 3.4 months.
For next year, it has been predicted that California's median home price would go down by 0.2 percent.
Call me, Sandy Wallace, at (831) 818-7099. I am here to assist you with all of your home buying and selling needs in Santa Cruz CA. I am committed to providing you with the best service possible.
Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or moving to a new state, you're now at the point where you've decided to sell your Santa Cruz CA oceanview home.
If you think you can simply put up a For Sale sign on your yard and wait for buyers to flock to your doorstep, think again. Many people think it's easy to sell a beachfront home. After all, who doesn't want to own a property with a great view and the opportunity to be close to the ocean?
Truth is, selling an oceanfront property takes a lot of more experience and skill than selling a single-story home or condo in the suburb. There are special considerations you have to make if you want to sell your Santa Cruz beachfront property successfully.
Top tips on how to sell your oceanview home
Here are my best tips to help you sell your home in the quickest possible time and for the highest price:
1. Find a real estate agent who specializes in selling oceanfront properties. This is an important element in a successful sale. Not all agents know nor have the experience to sell your beach house.
A real estate agent who specializes in waterfront properties like me “Sandy Wallace” can guide you better in the nuances of selling your house.
2. Do minor repairs. Before you proceed with any cosmetic makeover, it is important that you make minor repairs so the house is move-in ready.
If you have any plumbing issues, fix it. Replace any old faucet and leaking sinks, get new door knobs, replace broken windows and tiles, fix the cabinets and drawers, and all other minor repairs you can see or think of.
Painting your home is one of the easiest and cheapest ways you can do to make your property look more attractive. Pick a nice, neutral color and give your house a new coat of paint.
3. Don’t forget the curb appeal! If you're selling a waterfront home, don't just think about the view. Consider how the front yard looks.
The curb appeal is the first thing buyers see when they come for a showing. Buyers make their first impressions in seconds. Make the most of that first impressions by ensuring that you have a clean, neat, and welcoming front yard.
4. Stage the entire house. Buyers love bright, inviting homes, and that's your goal. You want the house to be as clean as possible. You also want it to look airy and spacious so remove any excess decor and furniture, retaining only necessary pieces you can use.
Don't stop there. Make sure that you stage every room of your beach view house.
Set the kitchen and living room with some beach accessories to carry that feeling of being near the ocean inside the house.
Clean your deck and set it up with outdoor chairs to create a cozy outdoor retreat.
Stage your home in a way that buyers could visualize themselves living in the house.
5. Make it bright. Dark homes don't interest buyer, even if it’s an oceanview home. Make your beach property more attractive by updating the light fixtures of the house.
Another way to make the house more open and bright is by opening the windows. This not only let in light and warmth but you are also letting in fresh air which clears the home of any lingering odor.
If your interior paint is dark, switch to lighter colors like whites, creams, beiges, or light blues and light greens. These colors make your home look lighter and more spacious.
6. Highlight the views and outdoor spaces. One of the best things about living close the ocean is the amazing views. If there is anything you should highlight in your oceanview home in Santa Cruz, it is the views.
Open the windows, remove the curtains, and make the views the focal point of the room by facing your furniture toward that view. Entice your buyers with your waterfront views.
Do you have a viewing area? Does it provide a clear view of the ocean or is it obstructed by foliage?
If your deck is surrounded by trees and foliage, trim the branches and remove the foliage so you can a clear view of the ocean.
7. Showcase the kitchen. Buyers love beautiful kitchens! If you are selling a waterfront property, buyers expect your kitchen to look spacious and fabulous.
They expect it to be a great place where they can entertain, equipped with modern appliances designed to make life easier.
8. Be show-ready. When it comes to home selling, your home must always be ready to show. You don't know when a buyer is going to come, or your agent may call just a few hours in advance, so make sure that your home is always show-ready.
Not being available for showing is one of the reasons why homes don't sell fast. You never know if that person who you turned away for showing may be the one who'll take your home off the market, but you missed that chance.
The most important part
9. Set the right price. The most important thing you can do for your house is to set its listing price in the right market value.
Price your house too high and you won't get any buyers. Price it too low and you risk losing money.
The right price will attract buyers and sell your property at the fastest time possible time.
Selling your Santa Cruz waterfront home is not easy, but if you follow these tips, you’ll find yourself receiving great offers as soon as you list your home.
Are you planning to sell your beachfront home soon? Call me, Sandy Wallace, at 831-818-7099. Let’s discuss how we can sell your home fast.
If you are thinking of selling your Santa Cruz CA oceanview home , you’re also likely considering how much to sell it for, how to sell it fast, and how to improve its value.
There are many decisions involved in home selling, but the most important thing to consider is the listing price.
Your home’s price will determine if the house will sell fast or not, so pricing it right is the key. Finding that sweet spot between not too low nor too high a price will result in a much faster transaction.
Home pricing is part art, part science. It follows procedures, it requires research, and a little bit of math.
It also needs the right tools and information. That’s where we real estate agents come in. Our market knowledge, experience in valuations, and tools like CMA (comparative market analysis) help us come up with the right price to list your home.
Several factors play an important role in your home’s worth. These are:
Comparables. This also known as comps and refers to prices of recently sold homes in your neighborhood. By taking into account sold homes with the same size, house style, condition, and amenities, you can tell how much buyers are willing to pay for. It gives you a good gauge when it comes to pricing your home.
View and location. You’ve probably heard this a hundred times but in real estate, location is king. Is your home near a quality school, shopping or entertainment centers and job opportunities? How close are you to the freeway or highway? These things add or decrease the value of the home.
What kind of view do you have in your home? Is it a peek-a-boo, a clear view or a panoramic view of the waters? Views are hard to quantify, but the better your vantage point and the less obstruction, the higher the value.
Size. A home’s value is estimated per square foot, so size plays a huge role. You also have to consider the livable space which excludes garage, attics, and unfinished basements. Bedrooms and bathrooms increase value, so generally, the more bedrooms and bathrooms, the higher the value.
Home age and general condition. New constructions have higher value than old house because old home require more maintenance and upkeep.
Updates and improvements. Improvements you’ve made to the property can also influence home value. Updating to hardwood floor, installing energy efficient windows, and adding a deck are some improvements that can increase home value.
Market condition. The condition of the local market also affects home value. If there are many buyers competing over a few number of homes, home prices can increase. If there are many sellers but only a few buyers, home price decreases.
Even the local economy and interest rates affect your home’s value.
Knowing your home’s value helps determine the right listing price for your waterfront home for sale in Santa Cruz CA.
Are you planning to put your home on the market soon? Call me, Sandy Wallace, at 831-818-7099 for a free home valuation. I’ll be waiting for your call.
In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What’s My Santa Cruz CA Oceanview Home’s Value on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY3jaMcQjCM.
Santa Cruz is located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay and is the quintessential California beach town. This place is known for its many beautiful beaches.
Buyers looking for Santa Cruz CA homes for sale are drawn to its stunning coastline, redwood forests, and great weather. It is home to almost 280,000 residents.
Santa Cruz County is the gateway to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, one of our nation's most spectacular marine protected areas, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the world.
It also has 29 miles of coastline and includes numerous state parks and beaches. Living here, you’ll be constantly surrounded by beautiful nature and great surf. It’s simply a wonderful place to call home.
Enjoy the crowning jewel of the Golden State!
You will find numerous cultural and recreational activities, including sailing, fishing, golfing, surfing, kayaking and hiking. Cultural amenities in the area include the Santa Cruz County Symphony, the Cabrillo Music Festival, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, the McPherson Museum of Art and History, the University of California Performing Arts Center, and the Henry J. Mello Performing Arts Center.
Beautiful Santa Cruz CA homes are waiting for you!
Looking to buy a home in the area? You’ll find diverse options including gorgeous waterfront homes, secluded homes on acreage, and even golf properties. There are also luxury estates, condominiums, and townhomes.
Santa Cruz County includes the incorporated cities of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville. Some of the popular communities include Aptos, Bonny Doon, Brookdale, Corralitos, Felton, Larkin Valley, La Selva Beach, Los Gatos Mountains, Rio del Mar, Scotts Valley, Seacliff, and Soquel.
Call me, Sandy Wallace, at (831) 818-7099. I am here to assist you with all of your home buying and selling needs in Santa Cruz CA. I am committed to providing you with the best service possible.
Have you always wanted to live by the ocean to watch the waves every morning before starting your day? Or maybe you’ve imagined a relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city?
This is your chance to get what you want! Ocean view homes are now for sale in Santa Cruz CA!
With many real estate options to choose from, it can be challenging to discern what property to buy. This is especially true if you’re not familiar with what to look for in a home by the ocean.
Your new home will be an investment. Selecting a house that has good resale value will be advantageous if you decide to sell your house in the future.
That being said, there are a few things you might want to avoid when it comes to choosing your Santa Cruz CA home.
Up, up and away
Santa Cruz can have its share of upward and downward slopes. Houses that are on these slopes will tend to have more stairs leading up to the front door or the peripheries of the house.
If you feel like you’ll have a difficult time with these features, it could be best to find a home in a more level area of Santa Cruz.
Single-story homes sell faster
In connection with the previous point, Santa Cruz single-storey homes sell faster partly due to the fact that there are fewer stairs involved.
This can help you in two ways. First, it will be easier for you and your family to navigate your home since there are no stairs. Second, single-story homes are more in demand, which is desirable if you do decide to resell your house in the future.
Avoid the hustle and bustle
Imagine sitting comfortably in your ocean view home, relaxing and enjoying your time when your peace is suddenly interrupted by the sound of cars passing by constantly.
This is not the ideal scenario for anybody. It is crucial that you choose a home away from main thoroughfares and busy streets to preserve your peaceful sanctuary. I can help you more if you visit my website at http://www.santacruzcahomesforsale.com/ !
Many options will be available to you when it comes to location. You can opt to purchase a home that is away from the noise and disturbance. This is the beauty of purchasing a house in Santa Cruz!
Save yourself from headache-causing situations
A home is a place for resting and unwinding. Why would you want to be in a home near a warehouse?
Avoiding areas with real estate dedicated to utilities such as waste treatment plants, power stations, and others is best when choosing your ocean view home.
Make your life easier
All the effort and time that goes into choosing and reviewing homes can take its toll on you. The hassle that can be saved is priceless if you allow me, Sandy Wallace-REALTOR®, assist you in finding your new oceanview home in Santa Cruz CA.
You will be in good hands, so call me at 831-818-7099 to find your oceanview home! My experience and expertise in this market will guarantee your new home will be the perfect one!
California. Beach, sun, waves, and endless summers.
If you are on the hunt for an ocean view home in California, you have got to see the ones here in Santa Cruz! These homes offer the ultimate comfort and lifestyle with prices that are absolutely to die for!
Keep reading as I show you how to make your pick among all these wonderful homes on the Santa Cruz beachfront!
Make a Short list
That’s always the first step when choosing between ocean view homes in Santa Cruz. All the listings you see are great, and each of them has something special to offer.
I would also recommend making notes beside each of these listings. Make one or two notes about each home’s pros and cons, like this.
Pros: great location, large backyard.
Cons: swimming pool maintenance is costly.
Each family and each individual has their own preferences and special circumstances. There’s no shortage of homes here, so be careful not to get too carried away when looking at homes!
Make a shorter list
Here’s the painful part: narrowing down the list.
From your initial search, you’ll have accumulated dozens of homes. You can put the best ones on one side, and the not-so-great ones on the other side.
Now it’s time to do some digger deeping. This is when going through photos online just doesn’t cut it anymore. Set aside some time this week to visit these homes in person and see what they look like in person.
You may opt to prioritize seeing the nicer homes first, and see if any of those hold up in person. If you find yourself unsatisfied with them, try giving the not-so-great ones a chance.
Ask yourself this question: Can I picture myself living in this home for the next 5 years?
Buying a home is no easy task. It requires a great deal of money, effort, and consideration. No one would want to move in to a home only to move out after a few months or a year.
In most cases, 5 years is enough time to live in a house before selling without losing money.
As you ask yourself whether you can picture yourself living in this house for the next 5 years, consider items such as mortgage payments, work and education, lifestyle, age of family members, the neighborhood, and the like.
Act fast
Great homes don’t stay on the market very long. Keep this in mind and avoid unnecessary delays.
The last thing you would ever want to happen to you is to finally decide on a home only to discover that it has already been sold. This happens not only in real estate, but practically everywhere else.
There’s a lot to consider when buying an ocean view home, but in all my years as a real estate agent I can tell you that it will all be worth it! Your whole family will get to enjoy your private sanctuary with amazing California views and unparalleled comfort.
Start today!
Need help finding the best ocean view home in Santa Cruz CA? Give me, Sandy Wallace, a call at 831-818-7099.
I’ve been doing this for years, and my clients love the service and expertise I bring to the table, so let me do the same for you!
In case you cannot view this video here, please click the link below to view Best Ocean View Homes in Santa Cruz CA on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aBdDJevoho.
A move-in ready home that offers the best of retreat and relaxation
Tucked away in Westmont Place, this inviting and impressive single-level home for sale in Santa Cruz offers the peace and privacy you're looking for.
Featuring 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, you'll enjoy 1,167 square feet of living space in this home.
With an open floor plan, high ceilings, granite counters and a large backyard oasis, this home exudes casual elegance.
Your search for a peaceful haven is over. This Santa Cruz home is what you have been looking for!
A home in the sought-after Westmont Place
Aside from the exceptional features of this home, one of the best things about it is its location.
Westmont Place sits beside University Terrace Park and is only a mile away from the University of California - Santa Cruz.
Transportation is easy and convenient. There are bus stops along Bay Drive and High Street, just minutes away from this home.
The coveted Westlake Elementary School is approximately a nine-minute walk, less than a mile away.
Downtown Santa Cruz is an eight-minute drive away, and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a mere 11-minute drive.
This location is so ideal that homes in this area rarely get on the market.
Westmont Place has a basketball court, a BBQ/picnic area, a playground, a pool, a tennis court, off-site parking, and on-site maintenance and management.
Best of all, it is only minutes from the beach! Mitchell’s Cove Beach is only eight minutes away.
It is the perfect place to watch the sunrise or to unwind and have some moments to yourself when you want to get away from life’s hectic schedule.
Light and space merge in this Santa Cruz home’s interior
Step into a bright and lovely open floor concept interior with wide windows that let in plenty of light.
High ceilings, gleaming wood floors, and neutral toned walls welcome you in, ready for your personal touch. There is also a gas fireplace ready to provide warmth on cool days.
A tastefully-chosen sofa set with a side table and lamp can turn this living room into a cozy spot, best for relaxing and welcoming friends and guests who are visiting.
On the other side of this great room is a generously-spaced eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, a gas stove, beautiful cabinets and a breakfast bar. The appliances are mostly new, even the hot water heater.
Let your inner chef shine and whip out your favorite recipes in this functional and modern kitchen.
There is also an ample-sized breakfast area, perfect for casual meals and intimate conversations.
Find comfort and peace in the beautiful bedroom
This house for sale in Santa Cruz has a truly inviting bedroom.
Unwind, relax, and recharge for the next day in the spacious and airy master bedroom with vaulted ceiling, large windows and a private exit to the patio and backyard.
It also has an ensuite bathroom where you can pamper yourself through luxurious baths. At the end of the day, nothing beats a good, long soak in the bathtub.
A picturesque backyard
For outdoor entertainment, the patio and backyard are yours to enjoy. This Santa Cruz home boasts of a large private fenced yard with a rock waterfall under a weeping willow tree.
There’s also a lemon tree, herbs, and roses.
If you want to escape the noise inside the house, bring your book or magazine outside and bask in the sunlight and fresh air this amazing backyard offers.
This amazing home is waiting for you, and it’s priced to sell at $875,000.
Want to see other available properties in the Santa Cruz area? Visit my website http://SantaCruzCAHomesforSale.com for more information.
Homes in this great of shape have been selling quickly, so don’t miss this one. Call me, Sandy Wallace, at 831-818-7099 Let me help make your real estate dreams into reality.
In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view 933 Nobel Dr Santa Cruz CA 95060 Home for Sale on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_gATLl0_qaU
Santa Cruz County is situated at the northern tip of Monterey Bay, approximately 65 miles south of San Francisco, 35 miles north of Monterey, and 35 miles southwest of Silicon Valley. The area is known for its pristine beaches, lush redwood forests, and rich farmland. Residents and visitors alike love its ideal Mediterranean climate with low humidity and sunshine 300 days a year.
There are four incorporated cities in the County. The largest is the City of Santa Cruz, with a population of 59,946. The homes for sale in Santa Cruz are set in a classic beach community, spanning from the Beach Boardwalk to the University and the Redwoods to the Sea.
Watsonville has a population of 51,199, Scotts Valley has 11,580, and Capitola has 9,918. Capitola by the Sea exudes the charm of a Mediterranean village with restaurants, shops, bakeries, and artist galleries. Scotts Valley, on the other hand, is considered as the gateway to the coastal redwoods and natural wonders of the area's State Parks.
Santa Cruz CA is truly a wonderful place to call home.
The county has 29 miles of coastline and includes numerous state parks and beaches. You’ll also find quaint shops and restaurants, along with a number of cultural and recreational activities, including sailing, fishing, golfing, surfing, kayaking, and hiking.
Santa Cruz’s strong local economy is anchored in industries such as technology, agriculture, and tourism. Its county government has a workforce of 2,470 employees in 20 agencies and departments.
Santa Cruz Homes for Sale
The homes in this area offer the ultimate comfort and lifestyle with prices that are absolutely to die for. The real estate market offers diverse options including gorgeous waterfront homes, secluded homes on acreage, and even golf properties. There are also luxury estates, condominiums, and townhomes.
Market Report for May-June 2018
This report covers Santa Cruz County from Bonny Doon to Watsonville in the price range of $700,000 to $2, 500,000. There were 520 homes listed in May 2018. There were 139 homes sold during May 1, 2018 to May 31, 2018.
Sellers accepted an offer while listed as coming soon on 12 homes. The average price for these homes is $1,323,417, while the average SF of these homes is 2,470 SF. The average price per square footage is $576.23. All the offers were over asking price.
Homes for sale in the city of Santa Cruz:
91 Homes Listed
39 Active- Average List Price $1,288,4
22 Contingent Release- Average List Price $1,336,182
8 Pending- Average List Price $1,088,625
22 Sold Homes- Average List Price $1,138,351
Homes for Sale in Capitola by the Sea:
88 Homes Listed
44 Active- Average List Price $1,456,924
10 Contingent Release- Average List Price $1,52,650
14 Pending- Average List Price $1,137,776
20 Sold Homes- Average List Price $1,095,023
Homes for Sale in Aptos:
88 Homes Listed
42 Active- Average List Price $1,264,505
14 Contingent Release- Average List Price $1,256.248
Call me, Sandy Wallace, at (831) 818-7099. I am here to assist you with all of your home buying and selling needs in Santa Cruz CA. I am committed to providing you with the best service possible.
Get to know one of California’s most desirable areas to live!
Santa Cruz County is a lovely area located on the Pacific coast of the state of California. It encompasses a total area of 607 square miles, of which 445 square miles is land and 162 square miles is water. It was one of the original counties of California, created in 1850 at the time of statehood.
Santa Cruz is home to more than 250,000 residents who enjoy its beautiful parks, beaches, biking trails, hiking trails, five greenbelt districts, and second-growth redwoods. The county’s strong local economy is anchored by technology, agriculture, and tourism. It has an ideal Mediterranean climate with low humidity and sunshine 300 days a year.
Known as the crowning jewel of the Golden State, many buyers looking for Santa Cruz CA homes for sale are drawn by the area’s captivating blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and fascinating activities such as kayaking, sailing, hiking, surfing, and golf.
Santa Cruz County includes the incorporated cities of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville. Some of the most popular communities include Aptos, Bonny Doon, Brookdale, Corralitos, Felton, Larkin Valley, La Selva Beach, Los Gatos Mountains, Rio del Mar, Scotts Valley, Seacliff, and Soquel.
Be surrounded by Santa Cruz CA’s pristine beaches, lush redwood forests, and rich farmland.
Santa Cruz County proudly serves as the gateway to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the largest US national marine sanctuary with a shoreline length of 276 miles (444 km). The Sanctuary is home to numerous mammals, seabirds, fishes, invertebrates and plants in a remarkably productive coastal environment. Santa Cruz also has numerous state parks and beaches.
Santa Cruz also has an array of art galleries, museum, festivals, and outdoor performances. There are premier cultural events such as Santa Cruz Shakespeare, Capitola Twilight Concerts, the Santa Cruz Film Festival, Scotts Valley Art and Wine, and Open Studios.
Real estate in Santa Cruz CA
Are you looking for a stunning waterfront home in Santa Cruz CA? Or are you in the market for a beautiful vacation home or second property?
You’ll be sure to find a variety of options. The real estate market in Santa Cruz is diverse and includes single family homes, waterfront houses on pristine beaches, condos, townhomes, apartment buildings, commercial development properties, golf properties, and land for sale.
Market Report for April 2018
Currently, there are 202 homes for sale in Santa Cruz CA. The price of the homes ranges from $ 700,000 to $ 1,500,000. The living space ranges from 560 square feet to 4,553 square feet.
Homes for sale in Santa Cruz CA
88 Active- Average List Price: $1,114,922
47 Contingent- Average List Price: $1,037,319
40 Pending- Average List Price: $1,052,670
27 Sold- Average List Price: $1,053,141
There have been 27 homes sold in Santa Cruz CA during the last 10 days. On average, a 1,800 square foot home sells for just over $1 million. 87 homes are pending with the same pricing for 1,800 square feet, about $600 per square foot. They are priced right around $1,000,000. The 88 active listings are priced $1,114,922 on the average. The average price per square foot is $690+/- for 1,818 square feet homes.
Call me, Sandy Wallace, at (831) 818-7099. I am here to assist you with all of your home buying and selling needs in Santa Cruz CA. I am committed to providing you with the best service possible.
Are you tired of your daily routine? Are you looking for something to make your life more interesting?
The daily cycle of getting up, going to work, and coming home can get repetitive and boring.
I know what you're going through, so let me tell you something I learned. Sometimes, all we need is a little twist to bring the fun back in our lives.
This is why I moved to Santa Cruz in 1998. I needed to change where I lived so I could change how I lived. Santa Cruz is the perfect spot to get both the intellectual zest of the city and the exciting and relaxing influence of a coastal lifestyle.
Keep reading to learn how to find the perfect oceanfront home for your needs! Be careful though, because it doesn't take much to convince someone to buy an oceanfront home for themselves!
Want to be happier and healthier? Move to Santa Cruz Oceanfront Homes!
Scientists at a number of institutions have found evidence that there is such a thing as “brain drain” when you are always exposed to the busy array of urban living.
According to a university study, those who took a walk along the crowded city street compared with those who walked in a park setting or a beach setting performed much worse on tests of attention and working memory.
Where and how you live is a strong predictor to your health and happiness.
Santa Cruz is an interesting mix of college town, beach town, and cultural center. It is famous for its boardwalk, wide sandy beaches, and beach amusements.
Living here, you’ll be constantly surrounded by beautiful nature and great surf. It’s simply a wonderful city.
You can’t deny that the ocean holds a certain attraction to many people. Just gazing at the sea can give a calm and peaceful feeling. Every day is an opportunity to enjoy, relax and have fun. You can go swimming, surfing, strolling or just simply take in the view.
Watch the video below to learn about the benefits of living near the ocean.
Questions to Ask before Buying a Santa Cruz Oceanfront Home
Ocean View homes are naturally appealing to buyers. Who wouldn't want to live right on the beach?
Before you start looking for Santa Cruz homes for sale, you want to know which questions to ask to make sure you do not make a purchase that you will regret.
Here are some questions you should consider:
1. Can you get a loan? Ocean view homes are often considerably more expensive than a similar home in a regular neighborhood. They require bigger loans so you need to check first to see that you can get the financing necessary to purchase a property.
2. What are you looking for in a home?
Ocean view homes can come in a surprising range of prices, conditions and access to amenities. Will this be your primary home, or a second home? Think about the things that are most important to you. They will help you narrow down the wide array of choices you have available.
3. Is the location right?
Before you go searching for a home, ask yourself what kind of lifestyle you want. This can help you determine where you should look for.
4. How do the neighbors like living there?
You can talk to the owners of the property that are near the home you are considering purchasing. They may be able to tell you a lot about what to expect when owning property in that area.
5. Does the property work for your lifestyle?
Consider your daily lifestyle routine. Will the home fit into your daily routine or would you need to make major adjustments in order to create the lifestyle you want?
6. What conveniences are nearby?
When buying a home with an ocean view, don’t just stop with the property. Take time to learn about the community. Find out about nearby hospitals, restaurants, police departments, shops, grocery stores, and other conveniences.
What to Look for in an Oceanfront Home
Buying a home with an ocean view is different from buying a property located on a tree-lined neighborhood street. It’s not just about purchasing a piece of real estate. When you buy a home with an ocean view, you’re also buying into a certain lifestyle.
If you’re thinking about buying an ocean view home in Santa Cruz, here are things that you should consider.
1. View
One of the great advantages of being close to the water is enjoying the beautiful views. It’s sure nice to be able to sit back in a chair and relax while watching the sun set over the ocean.
If the home you are considering has any view-obstructing trees or structures, you need to identify whose property they are on so that you can maintain your view.
2. Privacy
Privacy often corresponds to the amount of waterfront frontage the property has. If privacy is high on your list, you need a property with larger waterfront frontage.
3. Topography of the Land
Is the home you are considering on a level lot or a steep slope? Access to the water is easier on a flat lot.
4. The Size and the Floor Plan
Do you need a large home? Are you ready to pay higher heating bills and have higher taxes? How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Think about how you’re going to use the space and whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.
5. Good structure
When it comes to buying a home with an ocean view, you want to steer clear of major structural issues that will cost you big money to fix or will diminish your leverage when it’s time to sell if you haven’t fixed them. Never buy a house that has issues with the foundation.
6. Major systems
When viewing a home, examine the heating/air conditioner unit, hot water heater, and other major systems. These systems can be costly if they are left in disrepair for too long.
Activities that you can do when you live in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz has a lot to offer! Aside from the exquisite and magnificent views from your home, there are many activities that await you.
1. Paint your own ceramics
Release your artistic prowess by painting your own ceramic at Petroglyph Ceramic Lounge. You just have to choose your piece, pick your paint, and create!
2. Weave with your folks
Do you want to upgrade your knitting and crocheting skills? Inspire others with your skills or be inspired by others’ products. Come in and show off your ability at Santa Cruz Knitting Meet-up.
3. Visit the galleries
Take a tour at Artisans’ Gallery showcasing the collaborative nature of American-made crafts. Santa Cruz also has a lot of galleries you can visit such as Eloise Pickard Smith Gallery, First Fridays Art, Frans Lanting Gallery, Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery, and Santa Cruz Art League.
4. Museum hopping
Next on the list is to visit the must-see museums. One is Santa Cruz Surfing Museum where you will get a flavor of one of the two cities claiming to be Surf City. Another is the Bigfoot Discovery Museum that has a collection of Bigfoot footprint casts, memorabilia, and clips from old movies. There is also a large list and map with Bigfoot sightings since the early 1900's.
5. Tour the stunning historical landmarks
Aside from those various museums, Santa Cruz also has other landmarks of historical attractions that will bring out the history buff in you. Find out what lime is and how it is made at Bonny Doon Kilns Upper Laguna Creek. And be captivated by the patios, gardens, and excellent views of the city at Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park.
6. Movie and theater watching
Come and appreciate the distinct performing arts offered to you by the excellent theatre houses around Santa Cruz such as Art League Broadway Playhouse, Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Jewel Theatre, Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, Theater Arts Center, Music Center Recital Hall, The Del Mar, Nickelodeon, Regal Cinemas Santa Cruz and the Riverfront Twin.
7. Engage with Santa Cruz’s adventures
Several attractions in Santa Cruz will surely give tons of enjoyment for you and your friends or loved ones. You can go sighting at the central coast of California at Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Or go enjoying with your friends at the postcard-perfect oceanfront amusement park, Beach Boardwalk. And be amazed with the “gravity box” at the Mystery Spot. You can also go fishing at the Santa Cruz Wharf.
Watch the video below to get an idea of what Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park, has to offer.
8. Join sports
Do you want to play football? Want to go roller skating? Play golf? Learn martial arts? Or tone your muscles? Santa Cruz has fun sites for sports and recreation. Visit the Boardwalk Bowl, Neptune’s Kingdom: Indoor Mini Golf, Aikido of Santa, Aptos Martial Arts Academy, Pacific Edge Indoor Climbing Gym and the Santa Cruz Roller Palladium.
9. Bicycling and Surfing Tutorials and Rentals
Santa Cruz can give you a twist on how to savour it’s beautiful geographic sites through bicycling on the land and surfing on it’s beaches. The county has numerous rental and tutorial shops if you want to engage into it. Some of those are the Bicycle Trip, the Bike Church, Bike Santa Cruz, Bill’s Bike Repair, Cowell’s Beach Surf Shop, Freeline Design Surf Shop, Haut Surf & Sailboards, and others.
10. Horseback Riding, Hiking, and Mountain Biking
Finally, a great escape for the work’s stresses and pressures, the mountain hiking, biking and horseback riding at these few of among the many activity sites in Santa Cruz. Those are the Harvey West Park, Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, Ken Wourmhoudt Skate Park, Neary Lagoon Park, Monterey Bay Horsemanship and Therapeutic Center, Willow Pond Ranch and a lot more!
The Benefits of Living in Santa Cruz Oceanfront Home
Santa Cruz CA has been named as one of the best surf towns in America by none other than Surfer Magazine. This perfect California beach town is famous for sun, surfing, and the oldest seaside amusement park on the West coast of the U.S.
So what are the upsides of owning a home in Santa Cruz CA?
Culture
Santa Cruz is a community that attracts an eclectic population of artists, craftsmen, farmers, and writers who wish to live a surf life far from the surf spotlight.
Strong Community Feel
There’s a strong sense of community in Santa Cruz CA. The people are obviously in love with the community. It’s not your average run-of the-mill-city. It’s a one-in-a-million place, with something for everyone.
Quality of Life
You’ll definitely love what the city has to offer- abundant surf, close proximity to the West Coast's most metropolitan city, a low-key but thriving art scene, great wine, and access to massive expanses of natural beauty.
The weather is amazing and is best outside of tourist season. You get to enjoy 250 days of sunshine annually. There’s also spectacular hiking trails and sweeping views of the ocean.
Highly rated education
With the presence of UC Santa Cruz, it is no surprise then that the community enjoys a highly rated education system. Here you’ll find nationally recognized public and charter high schools such as Pacific Collegiate, one of the nation’s top schools. In addition, secondary school students can pursue a degree right at home, either at UCSC, which offers 65 undergraduate majors and 41 grad programs, or the well-respected Cabrillo College. Santa Cruz is one of the more educated communities in America. More than half (51.11%) of its adults have a college degree or even advanced degree, compared to a national average across all communities of 21.84%.
Great food
Looking for organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free food? You’ve come to the right place. Half of the supermarkets in Santa Cruz are pro-organic and anti-GMO. There are also farmers markets where you can buy vegetables and fruits.
Growing tech community and economy
Santa Cruz is also experiencing growth in terms of technology and economy. There is a committed community of business and tech leaders building businesses. There are also some pretty great start-ups. There are several co-working places, including NextSpace, Cruzioworks, and The Surf Office, which also includes housing.
Amazon now has an office in the city and satellites of the big companies are also expected to be seen soon.
Real Estate
Housing also ranks high among the strengths of Santa Cruz. There are varied options. The average home price is around $645,000. Efforts are being made to meet the demand for more affordable housing.
Top 5 places to buy your oceanfront home in Santa Cruz CA
Beach Hill
The Santa Cruz Beach Hill neighborhood has a mix of some grand old Victorian homes, as well as condominiums. Many of the homes in this area have ocean views, Santa Cruz wharf views or views of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This neighborhood is within 10 minutes of the Pacific Garden Mall, Santa Cruz's main downtown shopping area.
Seabright
Seabright is a quiet beachfront community. It has the largest inventory of Santa Cruz ocean view homes, and properties overlooking the yacht harbor.
Here you will find a wide variety of real estate options, from luxury oceanfront homes to homes on the bluff that overlook the ocean. It is a great place to live in a very walkable area close to the water and yacht harbor.
Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor
The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor offers a wide array of homes that lets you enjoy the unique advantages of waterside living.The homes may vary from small to medium to large with great prices for waterside living. You’ll find a wide mix of cottages, modern beach homes, a number of condominiums and some fabulous ocean view homes.
The Avenues
The Avenues is a neighborhood located between Seabright and the Castle Beach. Here you’ll find a mixture of cottages, oceanfront homes as well as ocean view condominiums. Just below The Avenues is Seabright Beach and the Santa Cruz jetty.
Twin Lakes
The Twin Lakes neighborhood was developed primarily starting in the 1920's. The region got its name from Wood's Lagoon and Schwan Lagoon, which were twin lakes. You’ll find ocean view homes starting around $2 million. From this neighborhood, you can easily walk to the beach or the yacht harbor.
It’s time for you to embrace the truth that there’s more joy and serenity to be experienced at the shore than there is downtown or in the suburbs.
The assistance of a real estate agent is invaluable during your search for your ocean view home in Santa Cruz CA. That’s why I’m here for you!
I’m Sandy Wallace and I have been a REALTOR® since 1998. Santa Cruz CA is a place where I have helped many a dream come true for home buyers and sellers.
I can help you too. I look forward to getting to know you and your real estate goals and dreams. Call me today at 831-818-7099.
