Santa Barbara Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Santa Barbara, California - CA, USA)

Often overshadowed by its huge neighbor, Los Angeles, just 90 miles / 145 km to the south, Santa Barbara arguably boasts a higher standard of living with its sandy Pacific beaches, multicultural dining and shopping, and world acclaimed vineyards.

The city draws large numbers of students, tourists and long-stay visitors with its resort-style offerings. Homes here come in all varieties but the city is best known for its California Mission and Spanish Colonial Revival style houses. These adobe residences keep things cool in the year-round Mediterranean-like climate and add exotic Spanish and Mexican twists to the city.


Around the University of California, to the west of the city center, is affordable housing aimed at students, yet Santa Barbara's most sought-after property is along the coast, spanning the likes of the so-called Riviera and West Mesa, and in the hilly backcountry of Mission Canyon. Those looking for real estate outside the city proper may like to browse the likes of Solvang or Buellton, home to some of the state's best wineries.

Real estate in Santa Barbara tends to be costly, particularly oceanfront property with views, yet affordable homes can be found in the inner suburbs. The recent softening of the property market has seen buyers getting more for their money.

Renting Serviced Apartments

Santa Barbara has an assortment of extended stay apartments equipped with wireless Internet, cable TV and laundry facilities including studios, lodges and suites. Of these, handfuls are aimed at corporate visitors. Leases for serviced apartments in the city run for 30 days or less, but discounts over equivalent hotels are normally only seen by long-term guests.

Buying Apartments and Houses

While traditionally a playground of the rich and famous, Santa Barbara today draws residents of all income levels, yet property prices here remain high in coastal and hillside areas with views. Buyers can, however, expect to see good returns on properties in these sought-after locations.

Non permanent residents are not subject to any restrictions on the purchase of property in Santa Barbara, although they can expect to pay a greater deposit, of up to 25 percent, on any property. Foreign buyers are advised to use a real estate agent and a real estate attorney to guide them through the purchasing process.

Real Estate Agents

Purchasing property through a Santa Barbara real estate agent that is fluent in the process is recommended. Many local Californian agents have experience working with non-US buyers and are able to guide buyers through potential pitfalls, legalities and tax nuances.

Check out the following Santa Barbara realtors and real estate agents:

Coastal Properties
Address: 1086 Coast Village Road, Santa Barbara, California CA, 93108, USA
Tel: +1 805 969 1258
Website: www.coastalrealty.com
This experienced realtor can help you make the best Santa Barbara property decisions with professionalism.

Cochrane Property Management
Address: 102 West Arrellaga Street, Santa Barbara, California CA, 93101, USA
Tel: +1 805 965 2887
Email: alonso@cochranepm.com
Website: www.cochranepm.com
This husband and wife partnership can help you meet all your Santa Barbara residential needs.

Sierra Property Management
Address: 5290 Overpass Road Building D, Santa Barbara, California CA, 93111, USA
Tel: +1 805 692 1520
Email: spm@sierrapropsb.com
Website: www.sierrapropsb.com
With an extensive portfolio of residential and commercial properties, this local estate agent has more than two decades of experience in the industry.