Factoid: May is the best month to sell your home, and the best day is today May 23rd! If you’re thinking about selling your home, you want to list it at a time when it’s going to sell at the highest premium. And, as it turns out, that time is in May. Obviously, you'd need to list the property before May unless you've received an all-cash, no contingencies, quick close offer.According to a recent analysis from ATTOM Data Solutions, which reviewed over 40 million home sales between 2011 and 2020, on average, homeowners sell their properties for 13.4 percent above the estimated market value in May—the highest of any month.And, depending on which day you sell, that number could be even higher. According to the analysis, the top five most profitable days of the year to sell a home all fall i... 05/23/2021

The Fair Housing Act is a law that was created to help limit discriminatory practices related to landlords, tenants, and housing. The act was created on the principle that every American should have an equal opportunity to seek a place to live, without being afraid of discrimination due to factors outside their control.The Federal Fair Housing act is officially known as Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968. It prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing units based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Fair Housing Amendments Act that became effective in 1989 amended Title VIII to prohibit discrimination based on disability or familial status (households with children under 18 or pregnant women); add new enforcement mechanisms, and expand... 05/20/2021

Is your living situation right for your home-based business?  And, if not, how to create or find a space that is. In this post, we will show you how to evaluate your current space, and share some options for your consideration if your business needs more room to thrive.What kind of space do you need? This is the first step in evaluating your workspace. Some people are just fine with a desk where others will require larger spaces to accommodate various equipment and work areas for their business.  If your current space needs more room it might be worth considering an expansion such as an extra room, or even an auxiliary structure.That said, there’s a lot to consider before diving headfirst into an expansion. You’ll need to check out your local zoning laws, building and safety codes. You ... 04/10/2021

The real estate market took off in California last spring. As soon as the shut-in began people began re-evaluating their living circumstances. Where one lived took on greater significance, and many real estate markets in California took off and Boom!With so many working from home people are re-thinking their living spaces. We experienced an exodus of urban dwellers for suburbia in 2020.  Many of the home sales last year in Santa Barbara were buyers from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Texas.  With all these changes, plus low interest rates, there is plenty of activity still.If you’re considering getting into this market we humbly suggest you do your homework first.Number 1.  Check Your Credit.  If you aren’t paying “all cash” your lender will expect detailed information regarding your f... 04/07/2021

 You’re ready for a well-deserved retirement and you’re looking for the perfect place to retire. How does a near-perfect climate where the natives are friendly on the California coast sound? Whether you want to kick back and enjoy the ocean and island views or explore the many sport-related activities and cultural events Santa Barbara has to offer this small-town oceanfront community might be just what you’re looking for!Santa Barbara offers a variety of housing options. With its mild climate, beautiful architecture, and numerous amenities, there is something for everyone. Here are the five reasons why retiring in Santa Barbara is an excellent choice.Santa Barbara’s Rich History and architecture     Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city. It effectively blends the old with the new. T... 03/20/2021

03/20/2021

Win a newly constructed Zen Canyon contemporary masterpiece that’s more than 5000 square feet of living space on 2.3 acres. This incredible property offers five bedrooms, six bathrooms, a Chef’s kitchen, accordion doors that open to an outdoor oasis, and wrap-around decks overlooking the canyon.Do Good. Win Big.All proceeds from the Dream House raffle will benefit the Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC). SOSC enriches the lives of athletes through sports, leadership, and wellness programs. Your support is critical in providing virtual and in-person programs that lead to improved health and independence among our athletes and acceptance and inclusion in the community. This property is located in Agoura Hills.Thank you for helping to reach up and serve tens of thousands of athlete... 03/20/2021

 The southern Santa Barbara County Real Estate Market Trends reveals a low of 85 homes sold in May to a high of 190 homes sold in July.  The market is fairly lively right now as families get situated for the next school year even though it's unclear what schools will be reopening and how they reopen?The chart below is self-explanatory. But, if you have any questions or need more information we're happy to help. Contact us, and we'll get right back to you!  08/16/2020

The Rincon Classic is on! The Rincon Classic will take place on January 25th and January 26, 2020. Rincon in Spanish means angle or corner. Rincon is a surf spot located at the Ventura and Santa Barbara county. Also known as the “Queen of the Coast”, Rincon is one of the most famous surf spots in California, known around the world for its well-formed waves and long rides.  The book 100 Best Surf Spots in the World rates Rincon at 24. It is best at low tide during the winter months when swells are coming mostly from the west and northwest. There is a gated residential community that occupies most of the Rincon beachfront. However, public access is provided at parking lots on both sides of the gated community, with restrooms and a picnic area in the upper parking lot, Rincon Beach Park. 01/23/2020

Veterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects to those who have served. For one day, we stand united in respect for you, our veterans.This holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in our country's service and was originally called Armistice Day. It fell on Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in 1954, the holiday was changed to "Veterans Day" in order to account for all veterans in all wars. We celebrate and honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.    Santa Barbara's Veterans Day Events   Veterans Parade: Saturday November 9, 2019 * Noon to 1pm on State Street   Flyover: Saturday November 9, 2019 * 1:30pm ... 11/08/2019

Throughout California, homeowners are losing policies and facing steep cost increases with replacement coverage as insurance companies look to reduce their risk. Prior to the fire, floods, and debris flow events companies like Chubb and AIG were writing residential policies. That’s changed. With all the uncertainty homeowners are understandably concerned.California may seem like the center of fun and sun, but homeowners in the Golden State can’t be so carefree. In addition to being the most wildfire-prone state, California has a property crime rate that’s rising in certain areas. There are many reasons why California residents should purchase a homeowner's insurance policy, one of which is most mortgage lenders require applicants to have homeowner’s insurance before they sign on the dot... 10/31/2019

The Rosewood Miramar Beach luxury oceanfront resort opened officially to the public on March 1, 2019.  The luxury resort is located at 1759 South James Lane in Montecito just off Highway 101.The resort’s direct phone line is 805.900.8388, and room reservations can be made by calling 214.880.4262.Rick Caruso, who developed the 161 unit resort says, “For the past 12 years, my team at Caruso and I have had the privilege of being part of the incredible Montecito community,”. “The support and encouragement that we have received from you means the world to us. For so many, this stretch of land is filled with timeless and treasured memories, and I am deeply honored that in just a few short weeks, Rosewood Miramar Beach will revitalize the spirit of the surrounding area for those who visit.” 03/22/2019

According to the local real estate rumor mill Amazon will be leasing the Saks Fifth Avenue Building at 1001 State Street in Santa Barbara for two million dollars a year.  Construction on tenant improvements will begin in early 2019, with tenancy happening by the end of next year according to Austin Herlihy,  executive vice president at Radius Commercial Real Estate.  State Street has struggled with retail vacancies for the past several years, but the presence of Amazon (if it is Amazon) might give the artery a much-needed adrenaline boost. NDAs have been signed so hence the rumor mill reference. 10/23/2018

Photo of Toro Canyon Bridge by Cal TransNoozhawk, a Santa Barbara online local news publication, reported today on the status of the seven bridges that were damaged or destroyed by the flood and debris flow on January 9, 2018.The bridges are at 1. Montecito Creek at East Valley Road, at the base of Parra Grande Lane (west of Hot Springs Road). 2. San Ysidro Creek at East Valley Road (just east of Randall Road)  3. Romero Creek at East Valley Road (between Sheffield Drive on the west and Ortega Ridge on the east). 4. Toro Creek bridge near Ladera Lane (east of Ortega Ridge Road) 5.Toro Canyon Bridge at the intersection of East Valley and Toro Canyon Roads. 6. Olive Mill Road overpass at Highway 101 near the Montecito Inn. 7. Arroyo Pardon Creek near Carpinteria (just west of Cravens Lane... 10/22/2018

Hidden Cameras? We're all familiar with Baby cams, Security Cameras, and a whole variety of other different kinds of systems, except this time, they're being used to monitor buyers previewing their home.Also sellers are using hidden cameras for observing how their real estate agent performs at showings and open houses. A recent survey suggested that 15% of Home Sellers have adopted this practice, and that another 67% said that they "would if they could!"Not only should realtors be on their best behavior, but it might be wise to council your buyers to avoid making any comments till you get back in the car. Hey, just saying!?How Sellers Gather Information on Buyers by Using Hidden Cameras Image from Pixabay.com 08/19/2018

Open House August 12, 2018 from 1 to 4pm.A perfect location just below Pepper Hill, South facing exposure with views down the coastline, Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. This home offers great indoor/outdoor living and entertaining with spacious rooms, patios, fire pit and beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens. Two ensuite bedrooms, den with wet bar and leaded glass wine closet. The wing off the kitchen offers flexibility as a great media room or guest room. Thoughtful quality finishes include Pella windows, tankless water heaters, AC, Cherry cabinets, travertine & cherry floors. Close proximity Montecito's Lower and Upper Village. Approximately 3000 + sq.ft.  Three bedrooms. Three baths. Berkshire Hathaway Home ServicesAsking price: $2,995,000 08/12/2018

SANTA BARBARA, California. The U.S. News & World Report says Santa Barbara is the number one best place to live in the United States for the weather in 2018. Tourists from all over the world come to Santa Barbara for various reasons and now they have another. The report says that Santa Barbara only experiences 6 days below freezing out of the year and only 3 days above 90 degrees with an average of as few as 79 cloudy days per year. To check out the current weather conditions, click here. Explore everything Santa Barbara has to offer by clicking here. 08/12/2018

  4 BED / 2 BATH          LISTING PRICE $203,900 Picturesque northeastern Santa Maria, Riveroaks subdivision, Spanish-style, single-story, open floor plan, 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 1685 Sq. Ft. approximately .14 Acre Lot, 2 car garage located in quiet cul-de-sac, walking distant from Taylor Elementary School,vaulted ceiling, tile surround gas fireplace with remote-control, large open kitchen area with lovely wood-style cabinetry, gas stove/oven, built-in microwave, refrigerate, washer, dryer included, porch motion sensor, beautifully landscaped front and back. Questions:  Cesar Bautista 805.264.1646 05/08/2018

Following the Thomas Fire, Flood, and Mudslides KEYT Television recently reported on the state of the real estate market in Montecito, California. Broadcast March 26, 2018 03/28/2018

Boutique shopping, complimentary food tastings, live music, kids’ activities and much more are in store on Saturday, February 24, from 2 pm to 6 pm at various locations in Montecito’s Upper Village. All local businesses are open and ready to welcome shoppers following the devastating Thomas Fire and subsequent mudflow that shut down business for multiple weeks in December and January.Celebrate Montecito’s Upper Village is an opportunity for the community to show love and support to the restaurants and retailers who help to make the Montecito community the magical place that it is. Upper Village Businesses will be open and most will be offering discounts and donating to local non-profits to support mudslide relief. The schedule is as follows: 2:00 to 4:00 pm:Face Painting, Station for Wr... 02/23/2018