Explore our articles about selling real estate in the Santa Cruz, CA area.

If you've ever taken a keen interest in Santa Cruz, CA and you noticed the pivotal role that appraisals play in shaping this dynamic real estate landscape. A home appraisal is a process that determines the real market value of a property, similar to how a valuation for jewelry or a vehicle or boat is done. It is a gold mine of information for anybody in the market to purchase or sell a property.

The value of a house may and will fluctuate over time, so it's reasonable to assume that appraisals for homes for sale will also expire, sometimes even before they find buyers. It will become "old news" and need a fresh evaluation at some point. Then, what duration are appraisals good for? In considering this, keep the following in mind:

Inside this…

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Lemons on a tree in the Los Gatos Mountains

Whether you are selling in a stagnant or hot seller’s market, the lack of bids on your house can cause frustration and concern. If a property stays unsold for an extended period, the market may perceive it as "stale," reducing the likelihood of a future sale. Some people even end up withdrawing their property from the market altogether.

What duration is too long to wait? Although a definitive answer is not easy, some emotional benchmarks warrant consideration. In a sluggish market, it is typical for properties to remain unsold for six months to a year. The best way to go about it is to examine previous sales of comparable houses for sale in your neighborhood and see if your property has strangely stayed for “too long." Conversely, if your home…

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In a bustling real estate market, preparing your home for sale can feel like a daunting task. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned pro, making your property stand out in a crowded field requires a strategic approach. From enhancing curb appeal to staging your home effectively, every detail matters.

Inside this Article:

  • Understanding the Competitive Market
    • Enhancing Curb Appeal
    • Staging Your Home

Understanding the Competitive Market

What Makes a Market Competitive?

A competitive market is characterized by a high number of buyers relative to the number of homes available. This often results in multiple offers and higher selling prices. In such an environment, standing out from the crowd is crucial. Factors…

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Surfer on beach in Santa Cruz CaliforniaProposition 19 may provide the solution you need.

Who Qualifies for Prop 19? Under this law, homeowners aged 55 or older, the severely disabled, and victims of wildfires or natural disasters can transfer the property tax base from their existing home to a new home anywhere in California. This could lead to significant savings on your annual property taxes.

Prop 19 allows you to move anywhere in California and transfer the low property tax base from your original home to a new home, even if the replacement property is of greater value. This transfer can be done up to three times for victims of wildfires or natural disasters.

Inside this Article:

  • Proposition 19 may provide the solution you need.
    • How Does Prop 19 help?

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Santa Cruz Westside Wilder Ranch Bluff Trail

Inside this Article:

  • Seller & Buyer Agents
    • Just the Facts
    • Existing & New Contracts

The recent settlement by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) introduces significant changes aimed at benefiting homebuyers during the purchasing process. Starting August 17, 2024, buyers must sign a written agreement with their agents before touring homes. This agreement will specify compensation details, which must be clearly disclosed, objective, and not open-ended. Agents will be restricted from earning more than agreed upon, and it will emphasize that fees and commissions are negotiable. While this may seem like a new requirement, similar practices already existed in some regions. Despite these changes, REALTORS® remain…

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Inside this Article:

  • Signs of a Housing Bubble in Santa Cruz
    • Historical Perspectives on Santa Cruz's Real Estate Trends
    • Understanding Current Market Conditions in Santa Cruz
    • Predicting the Future of Santa Cruz Real Estate

The Santa Cruz housing market has been of high interest and speculation lately, as potential homebuyers and investors try to decide if the market is shifting. With its beautiful coastline and vibrant community, Santa Cruz, located on the Central Coast of California, had always attracted people chasing the classic Californian way of life. In contrast, market dynamics are still very complicated in having limited housing supplies, high demand, and economic indicators affecting affordability and investment…

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Inside this Article:

  • Property Appraisal vs. Inspection When Evaluating Santa Cruz Homes for Sale
    • How Much Is a Home Appraisal
    • What Affects the Home Appraisal Cost in Santa Cruz?
    • Who Covers Appraisal Costs for Santa Cruz Real Estate Properties?

Lighthouse Point in Santa Cruz CA

Compared to the rest of California, Santa Cruz's economy is among the most diverse. The firm tourist, technology, education, and agriculture industries contribute to a robust commercial and residential real estate market with good prospects for property appreciation.

Investors in Santa Cruz real estate, or any property, for that matter, would do well to educate themselves on appraisals and how they could affect their budgets. If being abreast of actual market values could be…

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Inside this Article:

  • Who Are These Cash Buyers?
    • Drivers of All-Cash Purchases

Back Patio of a home in Santa Cruz

Mortgage interest rates have risen from their all-time lows in recent years, and the percentage of buyers who pay cash is growing.  Whether in outlying areas like San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley or in town centers like the City of Capitola, there has been a noticeable upsurge in the number of property transactions completed entirely with cash over the past few months. Since October 2022, people who bought homes without the help of loans have made up more than 25% of the nation's real estate market. The percentage of homes sold in January 2024 reached a record-breaking 32% , the highest since June 2014, when a sizable chunk of the market…

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Inside this Article:

  • Are Santa Cruz Homes for Sale Selling Quickly and Easily?
    • Invest in Upgrades
    • Work on Curb Appeal
    • Get a Proper Pre-Listing Inspection
    • Choose the Right Selling Method: Work with a Real Estate Professional
    • Analyze Your Property Market Comparable
    • Stage Your House for Sale
    • Market Your Home Listing Well
    • Know Your Closing Obligations
    • Not Sure How to Sell Your House Fast: Work with A Trusted Expert!

Backyard of home in Capitols, CA

Although you may have heard claims such as 'homes for sale in Santa Cruz, CA, are moving quickly' or homes for sale in Aptos, CA, are in great demand,' the crucial question remains: will your property sell just as swiftly? However, do not panic, as this article will come in handy!

Are Santa…

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Inside this Article:

  • Capital Gains Real Estate Tax?
    • Short and Long-term Capital Gains Tax When Selling a House or Commercial Property
  • How does Capital Gains Tax Work on Real Estate?
    • Can You Limit Your Capital Gains Taxes on Real Estate?

Home in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Santa Cruz real estate investments can be a goldmine. However, Santa Cruz homes and commercial real estate properties also attract CGTs (capital gains taxes) that eat into your profits. However, owners of Santa Cruz Properties can use some tactics (legal, of course) to minimize or avoid capital gains taxes on real estate altogether so they can keep much of their sale proceeds.

Capital Gains Real Estate Tax?

Are you one of those with homes for sale in Los Gatos, CA, Capitola,…

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