Santa Cruz County Home & Community Information

SANTA CRUZ 55+ SENIOR MOBILE HOME PARK - SORRENTO OAKS

Santa Cruz has many lovely senior 55+ mobile home parks and Sorrento Oaks is one of the best.  This 55+ mobile home park is located near the Upper Yacht Harbor in Santa Cruz.  It is an easy walk to beaches, harbor, Crow's Nest Restaurant and more.  There are many fun activities nearby for Active Adults like kayaking in the Harbor, stand up paddle boarding, sailing, golfing, biking . . . 

Sorrento Oaks is a 55+ mobile home park that is owned as a cooperative park with low monthly dues.  The park has a nice clubhouse and is well maintained and clean.

There are a mix of styles of homes in Sorrento Oaks 55+ senior mobile home park.  There are some older double wide homes, some have been very nicely remodeled.  There are also newer manufactured homes that feel like a real home.

For seniors and people over 55+ thinking of downsizing to a smaller home or mobile home Sorrento Oaks can be a great option.  It is a nice community and clean park with low dues located right by the Yacht Harbor.  Go here to read about other 55+ Adult Communities in Santa Cruz. 

Contact me for a list of senior 55+ homes for sale or to see what your home is worth.

MY FIRST FHA 203K LOAN TRANSACTION IN SANTA CRUZ

FHA 203k loans have been around for awhile and we have all been hearing about them but I have rarely seen them put to use in Santa Cruz County.  When searching for homes for first time buyers we are often in a lower price range and come across many foreclosure homes or short sales in bad condition that would never qualify for a regular FHA loan.    For a first time buyer with limited cash reserves that needs to buy a lower priced home or foreclosure home an FHA 203k loan can be a great way to go.

My first FHA 203k loan transaction as a Realtor just closed last week.  The client was a young first time home buyer that wanted to buy a home priced under $300,000.  In Santa Cruz County you will not find many homes under $300k in good condition so we found a fixer and got into contract using an FHA 203k loan.  I have heard these FHA 203k loans can take 60 to 90 days to close but the excellent lender we used in this transaction had it done in less than 40 days!  There is a lot of work to do getting the bids right and all the conditions met but with teamwork we got it done.

Now that I know how an FHA 203k loan works and have had such success I can recommend it to my clients.  Also this lender with Wells Fargo did such a great job I am confident in recomending him.

Now the buyer has a great property at a great price that needs a little work and the bank is loaning him $35k to fix it up!  Pretty sweet deal!

Feel free to contact me for more details about FHA 203k loans and buying a foreclosure in Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Wharf to Wharf Race - A Beautiful Run through Our Coastal Town

One of my favorite events in Santa Cruz will be taking place on Sunday July 25th - the 38th Annual Wharf to Wharf.  Is is a 6 mile race that starts at the Santa Cruz Wharf and ends at the Capitola Wharf.  Race starts at 8:30 am. 

The Wharf to Wharf is a festive Santa Cruz event that features many bands along the run and some fun costumes and outfits. 

The Santa Cruz Wharf to Wharf Run is a scenic 6 mile jaunt through our California coastal town.  You start by the Boardwalk and pass through the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor on your way to Pleasure Point.  The last part of the run takes you through the Opal Cliffs neighborhood where you will see some lovely Capitola beach homes.

The Wharf to Wharf Race ends at the Wharf in Capitola and Capitola Village.  There are some great places to have breakfast after the race like Gayles Bakery.  It is always fun to spend the day in Capitola Village afterward relaxing on the beach or surfing, maybe having an after run drink on the patio at Zelda's. 

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Santa Cruz County Median Home Prices affected by Short Sales and Foreclosures

There were 149 home sales in Santa Cruz in June 2010 - almost half of the sales consisted of REOs or Foreclosures and Short Sales.  Many of these Short Sales and Foreclosures are being purchased by First Time Home Buyers at discount prices.   

Santa Cruz median home prices saw a slight increase this June compared to June of last year however prices are pretty similar.  The Median Home price in June 2010 was $507,500 - in June 2009 it was $483,000.  A new article in the Santa Cruz Sentinel came out today about Median Home Prices in Santa Cruz

The San Lorenzo Valley and Watsonville areas have lower median home prices than other parts of Santa Cruz County and many investors and First Time Buyers are finding homes in these areas at very affordable prices.  One of the lowest priced homes that sold in June 2010 was a 2 bedroom home on Highway 9 in Brookdale that sold for $154,500.

June 2010 STATISTICS Santa Cruz Home Sales Statistics

Santa Cruz Single-family homes
Median price: $507,500 ($483,000 a year ago; $600,000 two years ago)
Listings: 1,116 (1,192 a year ago)
Number of sales: 149 (162 a year ago)
Distressed: Foreclosures, 31, short sales, 34, not applicable/not disclosed, 84
Unsold Inventory Index: 7.5 months (7.4 months a year ago)
Average price: $549,685
($573,029 a year ago)

Santa Cruz County Sales Statistics CONDOS
Median price: $284,000 ($299,000 a year ago; $368,000 two years ago)
Listings: 285 (250 a year ago)
Number of sales: 38 (31 a year ago)
Distressed: Foreclosures, 6; short sales, 11, not applicable/not disclosed, 21
Unsold Inventory Index: 7.5 months (8.1 months a year ago)
Average price: $368,032 ($343,270 a year ago)
SOURCE: Real Options Realty

Santa Cruz Short Sales and Foreclosure homes present an opportunity to buy a home in Santa Cruz at a great price. 

Go here to see Santa Cruz County Home Foreclosures for Sale

Santa Cruz County Condo Foreclosures for Sale

WHAT IS MY HOME WORTH IN SANTA CRUZ?  DETERMINING YOUR HOME'S VALUE & SELLING YOUR HOME

To determine your home's value in Santa Cruz County one must take in a variety of considerations.  In a beach community like Santa Cruz, Rio del Mar, Aptos, Seacliff, Capitola . . . proximity to the beach and presence of an ocean view drastically affect a property's value.  There can be a 1 million dollar plus difference between an ocean front home and a home one block away from it.  An ocean view can really up your home's value but it is just one of many factors to consider in finding your home's value.  Find out What Your Home is Worth

Another factor to consider in the size of your home and the size of your lot (or the usable land on your property).  Some properties in the Santa Cruz Mountain areas may have many acres but if there is not much usable land then the value might not be as high.  Having a one acre property in town will be worth much more than a 1 acre property in the mountains.

The age or construction quality is taken into consideration when determining your home's value.  If your home is older but built with quality and well kept up it can be worth as much as a newer home.  What is my Home Worth?

Of course there is the old saying "location, location, location" when it comes to determining your home's value.  Certain neighborhoods or areas will draw a much higher price.  Established neighborhoods on the Upper Westside of Santa Cruz, Pasatiempo, Seascape, Capitola (like Depot Hill or the Jewell Box) have higher home values on average than other parts of Santa Cruz County.  Even if you have a below average quality home in these areas it can sell for more than a nice home in another neighborhood.

When you are getting ready to sell your home do your best to highlight your home's best features to get the most value out of your home.  Go here for Tips for Preparing Your Home for Sale

When marketing a home for sale I use all the latest technology combined with traditional methods in order to present your home in the best light and to get as much exposure for your property as possible.  Feel free Contact me directly at (831) 419-9345 with questions about selling your home or your home's value.

OCEAN VIEW HOME FOR SALE IN APTOS WITH GUEST UNIT!  611 BAYVIEW DR, APTOS

Aptos, Ca incorporates Rio del Mar, Seascape and Seacliff is a great Beach Community located in the South of Santa Cruz County.  There are many great ocean view homes for sale in Aptos and it is a great place to own a second home or vacation home.  People love to come to Aptos in the summertime to beat the heat in the interior places of California.  The coastal fog in Aptos acts as a natural air conditioner and keeps the climate very mild.

This ocean view home for sale in Aptos is located in a great beach neighborhood in Rio del Mar.  There are ocean views from the second story where the main living areas are located.

Aptos home for sale is right across the street from an unbuildable lot so your ocean views are protected.

There is a lovely guest home that would be ideal for extended family.  You could also use it as a rental unit for extra income!

The guest cottage is totally separate from the main home for sale and has a private back yard.

You can walk to the beach from this ocean view home for sale as well as shopping and restaurants.  Aptos, Rio del Mar, Seascape make up a great community with many activities for the whole family like tennis, golf, surfing, hiking, jogging, mountain biking and more!

Go here to search for all Aptos Homes for Sale

For more info about this ocean view home for sale or other ocean view homes for sale in Aptos call Jessica at (831) 419-9345

4TH OF JULY EVENTS IN SANTA CRUZ

The 4th of July is one of my very favorite holidays and I love to spend it in my hometown of Santa Cruz, CA.  You can't beat being at the beach on the 4th of July and having a BBQ with friends and family.

Santa Cruz is a destination location for the 4th of July.  Locals and tourists alike flock to the beaches and parks to enjoy the sun and the many events that Santa Cruz offers for the 4th.

Here are some of the highlights for the 4th of July in Santa Cruz:

The Worlds Shortest Parade in Aptos!  This is such a fun time for kids and adults.  The parade starts at 10 am at Soquel & State Park Drive.  After there is festival at the Aptos Village Park with activities for all.

Another Family Friendly 4th of July Event is held a Roaring Camp RailRoad.  Starts at 11 am and features BBQ and games.

For the athletes out there you can participate in the Santa Cruz FireCracker Race - You can choose to do a 10k, 5k or 1k run from Harvey West Park to the Upper WestSide Santa Cruz neighborhoods. Santa Cruz Firecracker Race

For an 'Old fashioned 4th of July' head to Wilder Ranch up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz.  Dress in a period costume and take part in a sack race or cakewalk!  Wilder Ranch 4th of July Celebration

Scotts Valley hosts it's own 4th of July Celebration and the city puts on a great Fireworks Show - starting at 9:15.  Afternoon activities at the Skypark include music, food, bounce houses, carnival games.

Happy 4th of July Everyone!

Santa Cruz Home Search

 Capitola Condos Sales Activity 2010 Mid Year Market Report

 Capitola, CA is a great Beach Community located in Santa Cruz County.  There are a variety of home types available from Mulit Million Dollar Ocean View Homes to small beach vacation homes.  For those looking for more affordable homes in Capitola - Condos for sale in the area may be a great option for you. 

The prices of Capitola condos for sale have dropped in the past few years significantly and are now really affordable for First Time Buyers and Vacation Home Buyers.

Here are the Capitola Condo Market Statistics as of the End of June 2010:

# Of Capitola Condos for Sale Currently:  18 - Average List Price:  $575,150

# of Capitola Condos Currently in Escrow:  14 - Average List Price:  $284,061

# of Capitola Condos Sold from 01/01/10 - 06/30/10:  13 - Average Sale Price:  $352,423 *

The Average days on market of the Capitola Condos Sold this year is only 41 days indicating a fairly quickly moving Capitola Condo Real Estate Market.  The Average Condo Sale Price for the first half of 2010 is $352,423 which is up slightly from the 2009 Capitola Condo Average sale price of $339,800.

The Capitola Condo Real Estate Market has been affected by Short Sales and Foreclosures - many of the sold condos were REOs or short sales. 

Currently there are many different types of Captiola Condos for sale  - there are some lovely Ocean View Condos as well as inexpensive Foreclosure Condos.  Go here to see a list of Capitola Condos for Sale

To find out about specific condo complexes in Capitola read my post:  Capitola Condos

*All data from MLSListings.com

Capitola home for sale with separate guest unit - Investment opportunity in Capitola - 416 Loma Avenue

If you have ever been 'Capitola Dreaming' about owning a home in the lovely beach community of Capitola this new home for sale may now make it possible!  This Capitola home for sale is made up of a 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home PLUS a separate 1 bedroom guest unit!  This property would be great as a Vacation Home or Second Home.  It would be a fantastic primary residence as well with the separate unit there is potential for rental income.

This Capitola home for sale is located only a few minutes walk from Capitola Village and Beach, Gayles Bakery and shopping.  It is also walking distance to local schools!  What a great location!

The 3 bedroom main home of the Capitola home for sale is very clean and well maintained and has lots of light.

Both the Main 3 bedroom home for sale and the separate 1 bedroom guest unit have their own yards and lots of space and privacy.

Capitola is a wonderful Beach Community located in Santa Cruz County.  This particular street is quiet and close to everything - it can't get much better.  Go here for a list of other Capitola Homes for Sale - including Foreclosures!

For more affordable Capitola Real Estate read my post:  Capitola Condos

CAPITOLA CONDOS FOR SALE - LIVE NEAR THE CAPITOLA BEACH FOR LESS!

Capitola is one of top 20 small towns in the West, according to Sunset magazine and according to me as well!  I grew up in Capitola and feel very fortunate to have done so.  Capitola is a beautiful little beach town in Santa Cruz County of less than 2 square miles.  Many people visit in the summer to enjoy the cool ocean breezes and fun restaurants and shopping. Homes in Capitola can be expensive, but for those looking to buy a little beach pad for less, Capitola Condos for sale are a good option.

Capitola Condos for sale range in price depending on size and if it is a condo with an Ocean View  In 2009 the median price of a Capitola Condo for sale was $287,500.  For those looking to spend less than $300,000 on a Captiola Beach Condo, it is now possible!

One place you can buy a Capitola Condo for less is the Capitola Knolls Condo Complex.  The Capitola Knolls is just a short walk to New Brighton State Beach and a not so long walk to Capitola Village.  Most of the Capitola Condos for sale here are 2 bedroom, 1 bath units and there is a pool and spa.  The grounds are well maintained and the price & location can't be beat.

Another place where you can find lower priced Capitola condos for sale in the Villas of Capitola.  These condos are located on Clares St, right of 41st Avenue.  You can walk to the Capitola Village and Beach easily from here and all the shopping and restaurants on 41st Avenue and Capitola Mall.  There have been some Capitola condo foreclosures in the Villas of Capitola in 2010 for under $300,000.

The Capitola Shores Condos are located in the Jewell Box of Capitola, a great Capitola Neighborhood.  These are mostly 2 bedroom units and there are some single level condos.  These Capitola condos for sale are great for vacation homes or seniors because they are easy to maintain and are in a great walk to beach location.  The Capitola Shores Condos have nice grounds and a pool.

The Capitola Venetians are the most famous Capitola Condos.  The Capitola Venetians are rumored to be one of the first condo complexes in California.  These colorful Mediterranean style Capitola Condos are located right on Capitola Beach near the wharf and volleyball courts.  The Capitola Venetians rarely come up for sale and when they do their prices are well over 1 million dollars.  The Venetians are lovely Capitola Ocean View condos.  There are other Capitola Ocean view condos for sale, contact me for a list.

Capitola is a wonderful community to live full or part time.  For a list of Capitola Homes for sale or Capitola condos for sale, contact me at 831.419.9345.